My son has a mild intolerance to dairy. While it’s not life-threatening, the consequences are significant enough that we’ve made it a priority to avoid it for years. Thankfully, with the popularity of dairy-free products, it’s become easier, but it still presents challenges. We constantly read labels, inquire about ingredient preparation at restaurants, and often pay more for dairy-free options at home.
Managing food intolerances can be frustrating, but I can’t even begin to fathom the stress that parents of children with severe food allergies experience. What truly baffles me is how some individuals react negatively when asked to help create a safe environment for children who are at risk.
It’s a simple concept to grasp. If a child requires a wheelchair, I would expect our community to make the necessary adjustments to ensure their inclusion. Similarly, if a child has developmental challenges, I would hope that we educate others about their needs and create an inclusive atmosphere. When it comes to food allergies that could be life-threatening, our schools and communities should do everything possible to accommodate those children.
Is it fair to ask others to make small sacrifices for the safety of a child? Absolutely. That’s what community is about. When someone in our community has a unique need, we step up to support them, even if it requires some inconvenience.
No child’s preference for a peanut butter sandwich outweighs another child’s right to life. If a PB&J is your child’s only lunch option, that pales in comparison to the serious medical issues that could arise for a child with a peanut allergy. End of discussion.
While fatalities due to food allergies are rare (approximately 186 to 225 deaths annually), hospitalizations happen more frequently. My son’s lunch shouldn’t pose a risk of hospitalization for another child—especially when we can make choices to minimize that risk.
Some argue that children with allergies need to learn to manage their condition and that the world isn’t allergen-free. While that’s true, expecting a young child to be vigilant at all times is unrealistic. What happens when a child eats peanut butter crackers, neglects to wash their hands, and then touches shared items? The risk of exposure is real and scary for parents with allergic children. Why wouldn’t we strive to make schools and other community spaces as safe as we can? Why not reduce risk factors when it’s within our capacity to do so?
It’s disheartening to think that some prioritize their own children’s comfort over the health—possibly the life—of another child. What lesson does that impart to our kids? How does that foster a supportive community?
If your child’s school or community events ask that people refrain from bringing peanuts, tree nuts, or other high-risk allergens, and you feel annoyed or defensive, take a moment to breathe and empathize with another parent’s situation. Use this as an opportunity to model kindness and understanding for your children.
Navigating serious food allergies is a challenge for both affected families and their kids. Let’s strive to be thoughtful, supportive community members for those families.
For additional insights on community support, check out this article on issues surrounding pregnancy.
In conclusion, fostering kindness and understanding in the face of food allergies not only helps build a supportive community, but it also teaches our children valuable lessons about empathy and collaboration.