Easter and Food Allergies - How to stay a Safe Bunny!

As Easter approaches, and family gatherings are imminent, I just wanted to share my encouragement to food allergy families.  This can be a difficult holiday...so much candy, eggs everywhere, and nearly every popular side dish for that traditional Easter ham is loaded with dairy.  Attending family parties can be like navigating a field of land mines. Take a deep breath, and read over these Easter tips!

• Communicate with the host in advance about how to help you keep your child safe and alive.  Don't be vague, and kindly let the host know that she/he has a chance to be a hero and do life-protecting work in choosing what to serve at the party. 
• Some people are just never going to understand the severity of food allergies.  Pray for them, do your best to educate them, and then, if necessary, keep your distance at the party!
• Teach your children not to eat ANYTHING until they ask YOU!!!! Not grandma, or Aunt Mable, or Cousin Jimmy....YOU!
• Be on the safe side and bring a safe meal, plus a dessert and a snack to every party you attend.  There's nothing worse that getting to a party with a hungry kiddo, and there are zero safe options available.  Have your child help you prepare and pack the food, to give them a sense of control over their own safety. (Bring enough for your food allergic loved ones. You don't have to feed everyone at every party...unless you want to!) I love this huge insulated bag!  It keeps the hot - hot, and the cold - cold!  

• Carry extra epinephrine. And antihistamine, and steroid cream, and....
• Don't be afraid or embarrassed to cheerfully and lovingly ask way too many questions, and don't be afraid to be "that mom." We allergy moms need to be ready to accept any unflattering label if it means keeping our kiddos safe and alive. 
• Graciously and kindly leave the party if it's the safest option. Be cheerful about it and celebrate in a special way with your kids so they don't feel badly. 

May you all have a joy-filled, healthy, and safe Easter! 

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 As always, from The Allergy Safe Kitchen, I wish you "Good Cooking, and Safe Eating"!