Navigating food allergies can be challenging, especially for kids who want to enjoy meals at home, school, or while traveling. With careful planning and awareness, you can help keep your child safe while allowing them to participate in social activities without fear. In this article, we’ll explore essential safety tips that empower you to manage food allergies effectively, from packing epinephrine injectors to choosing the right restaurants. Let’s ensure your child can enjoy delicious food while staying safe!

1. Educate Your Child
   Teach your child about their food allergies in an age-appropriate way. Make sure they understand what foods to avoid, how to read labels, and the importance of speaking up if they’re unsure about a food.
2. Always Carry Allergy-Friendly Snacks
   Pack allergy-friendly snacks for your child whenever you’re out, especially during travel or school. This ensures they have safe options on hand if they can’t find anything suitable to eat.
3. Create an Allergy Action Plan
   Work with your child’s doctor to develop an allergy action plan. This should outline what to do in case of an allergic reaction, including symptoms to watch for and emergency contacts. Share this plan with teachers, caregivers, and anyone else responsible for your child.
4. Use Allergy Alert Labels
   Consider using allergy alert labels on your child’s lunch or snack bags. These can serve as a reminder for teachers and caregivers to be cautious about what your child eats.
5. Be Cautious with School Events
   Before school parties or events, communicate with teachers and event organizers about your child’s allergies. Offer to bring safe treats for your child to ensure they have something they can enjoy.
6. Stay Informed and Advocate
   Keep up-to-date on your child’s allergies and new information regarding food safety. Be your child’s advocate in restaurants and schools, ensuring that their needs are understood and met.
7. Pack Your Child’s Epinephrine Injectors in Your Carry-On
   When traveling by air, always keep your child’s epinephrine auto-injector in your carry-on bag for easy access in case of an emergency. Pratt recommends placing it in a clear plastic bag to simplify the security process. “You’ll often need to separate it from your other items due to the needle,” she notes.
8. Choose the Right Restaurant
   Certain restaurants pose higher risks depending on your child’s food allergies. For example, if your child is allergic to peanuts, it’s best to avoid Asian restaurants that serve Thai, Chinese, or Indian cuisine, as nuts are commonly used in these dishes. Additionally, steer clear of buffet-style restaurants and bakeries, where the chances of cross-contact and accidental exposure are elevated.
9. Review the Menu Ahead of Time
   Many restaurants offer their menus online, making it easier to identify safer options, If you’re traveling within the United States, consider dining at chain restaurants, where you can be more confident that ingredients and preparation methods are consistent across locations.
10. Talk to the Waitstaff
    Many restaurants now ask about food allergies, but if they don’t, it’s essential to speak up.Emphasize the importance of preventing cross-contamination. Don’t hesitate to request a detailed list of ingredients and ask how the dish is prepared. If you’re not comfortable with their answers, it’s completely acceptable to seek another restaurant.