Tips to Make Living With Food Allergies More Fun For Kids

Here at Daiya, one of our very favorite things is to receive words of thanks from parents who are raising children with food allergies, whom we have helped to live a more deliciously dairy-free (and soy-free, and gluten-free) life. We know that allergy parents everywhere experience unique struggles – and that it’s hard to keep saying “no” when you want nothing more than for your child to feel happy, full, safe, and like they fit in with their friends. To hopefully help with that part, here are some tips to make living with food allergies more fun for kids:

Focus on what your kids CAN eat.

This one might seem a bit obvious, but it’s true: While a parent of a child with food allergies may feel compelled to constantly remind their kid what is unsafe to consume, it is equally important to place – and keep – the focus on foods that are safe, and that your child enjoys.

Stock up on allergy-friendly snacks and treats.

One of the worst parts about being a child with food allergies is the feeling of missing out on celebrations – which, of course, tend to revolve around food. It’s good to keep a few treats (both sweet and savory) on hand in the fridge and freezer, for if and when these occasions arise. Your child will feel far less awkward or sad at the next birthday or pizza party if they are able to enjoy their own allergy-friendly version of the food their friends are eating.

Celebrate the holidays.

… And we don’t just mean the religious ones. With help from social media, national food holidays (i.e. National Brownie Day, National Eat With Your Hands Day – there’s a day for everything!) have become quite popular, and they’re fun ways to enjoy and honor your favorite foods. Let your little ones take part by creating allergen-friendly versions of the day’s food (if it’s possible, and if it’s something he or she will enjoy) and have some fun with it.

(Hint: For example, we recently celebrated National Macaroni & Cheese Day by whipping up some delicious dairy-free, gluten-free and soy-free Mac & Cheeze)

Celebrate the little things.

While it can be a bummer to walk into a major grocery store and feel immediately bombarded by products that you or your kid can’t eat, it can also be a full-fledged joy to discover new allergen-friendly foods that you love. When you do, don’t minimize that feeling of sheer happiness – find a way to celebrate it!

For more tips, culinary inspiration and information about our allergen-friendly family of products, be sure to visit us over at daiyafoods.com.