two itchy kids parenting. allergies. food. stories of each.

This past week, the Comic (our youngest) started school, and amidst all the excitement and wonderment of BOTH KIDS IN SCHOOL, the realities of navigating life at school with food allergies have tempered our elation with a little trepidation. Will she be ok? The teacher has been very good about asking us for a list of safe snacks that they will get for her, which is awesome. I’m most concerned about other kids, who may be eating something she’s allergic to, and who may have crumbs or whatnot on their hands and accidentally get it into her food. But food allergies don’t just affect what she can eat. There are many hidden sources of food allergens that you might not think of being at school.

DW came across a good list of potential food allergens that might be found in various arts and crafts materials used in school projects. The site is called www.kidswithfoodallergies.org and the tip of the week is: “Potential food allergens in preschool and school activities“.

Play Doh, papier-mâché or even pasta art could all pose potential problems for the Comic. Thankfully the teacher seems to be thinking along the same lines as us, so we are hopeful for a smooth ride through JK. Here’s hoping.