Menu Lifestyle
By Sarah Jenkins
Updated: July 15, 2021
Originally Published: April 18, 2017
When our son turned 7, we discovered he had severe allergies to various elements, including bees, horses, and penicillin. Additionally, tests showed he struggles with numerous foods and environmental allergens, resulting in a staggering list of nearly 30 allergens. You wouldn’t believe it, but he’s even allergic to celery—a fact I was completely unaware of until it impacted him directly.
After numerous consultations with his school nurse, doctors, and allergists, we devised a strategy to ensure his safety in the classroom. Although we don’t let his allergies define our lives, the holiday season still brings a wave of anxiety, particularly when it comes to classroom parties, which can feel like a minefield for kids with allergies.
Before we faced allergy challenges, I hardly considered the snacks I provided for school celebrations. However, navigating classroom parties with an allergy-prone child is undoubtedly one of the tougher aspects of parenting. There are initial conversations with the room parent about your child’s dietary restrictions, and reminders to the teacher during allergy season to ensure your child is protected from allergens like grass, which can trigger serious reactions.
It can be frustrating when other parents don’t fully understand the importance of accommodating allergy concerns. I’ve encountered resistance from parents who struggle to envision a party without traditional treats like cookies and juice, but it’s crucial for every child to feel included and safe.
Finding snacks that cater to various allergies can be daunting, but focusing on brands that exclude the top eight allergens—eggs, milk, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, soy, and wheat—can simplify the process. Brands like Enjoy Life offer delicious options that are not only allergen-free but also gluten-free and non-GMO. While these may come at a premium, pre-packaged items are generally more expensive anyway.
If you’re thinking of contributing food for a party, consider sending treats like fruit leather, fruit snacks, or gummy candies (like Skittles and Starburst). Just remember to always check the labels to ensure they are safe, but typically, options like lollipops or gummy bears are safe bets.
Personally, I often opt to skip the food altogether and contribute alternative treats for my son’s class. Here are some of our favorite suggestions:
- Create a playlist of your child’s favorite songs and burn it onto a CD for classmates to enjoy.
- Provide puzzle books, crossword puzzles, or Mad Libs, which are still a hit with kids today.
- Purchase inexpensive books from services like Scholastic Book Club; often, you can find $1 specials, and it benefits the classroom.
- Stock up on boxes of crayons, especially during back-to-school sales; kids love fresh crayons any time of year.
- Bring holiday-themed rubber stamps and ink pads, complete with fun notes like “Thumbs Up, Valentine!”
- Consider items that promote activity, such as jump ropes, inflatable pool balls, or Frisbees.
- Mechanical pencils are a favorite; they can be bought in bulk for great value.
- Gift tokens for places like Chuck E. Cheese or other entertainment venues.
- Glow sticks are perfect for Halloween; they add a fun element to trick-or-treating while keeping kids visible.
- Silly stick-on mustaches or fuzzy eyebrows paired with plastic glasses will have the kids laughing in no time.
- Photo props on sticks are perfect for classroom selfies, and they’re a hit with tweens.
- Age-appropriate trinkets like fake bugs or magnifying glasses are always fun; just be careful with small items around younger kids.
Any parent who proactively ensures that treats offered at classroom parties are safe for all children deserves a round of applause. A simple gesture, like reaching out to the parent of a child with allergies for suggestions, goes a long way. Most importantly, providing allergy-free snacks can be life-saving for a child, making you a true superhero in their eyes. Feel free to wear your cape with pride!
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Summary:
Navigating classroom parties with allergy-prone children can be challenging, but there are plenty of alternative treats that can ensure inclusivity and safety. From fun activities and supplies to allergen-free snacks, parents can create a positive environment for all students. Reaching out to others for collaboration and understanding is essential in making these occasions enjoyable for every child.