Spring is in the Air

Spring is in the air and for our children with food allergies new challenges await us. As we prepare for this burst of color on the horizon, we also need to prepare our pantries for the events that go along with spring. Many of us have already seen the displays of Easter goodies in the stores. As with all holiday fun, the best strategy is to be prepared with special treats that your child can enjoy so that they won't even notice that they might be missing out on something. By giving ourselves plenty of time to plan and collect the needed items, we can avoid a lot of stress and last minute running. We might even find that we can really enjoy this time with our kids without all the worry.

I have included the list below to help you get started. Please send in your tips and comments so I can post them on the blog for other parents.

1. Start scouring the dollar stores now for little nonfood items.
2. Plan your own Easter egg hunt with other friends that have children with food allergies.
3. Make your own chocolate bunnies by using "Enjoy Life" semi-sweet chocolate chips. Candy molds can be found at most craft stores.
4. Hide empty easter eggs and let your child trade them in for a special prize.
5. Plan an allergy free menu for Easter dinner. Get your recipes together now and try them out in advance.
6. Check websites like www.peanutfreeplanet for help with special treats that can be ordered.
7. Offer to make any special treats for your child's class. Make them ahead of time and freeze them.
8. Read labels very carefully even if it is an item you have purchased in the past. Companies are known to change ingredient labels and manufacturing facilities.
9. Contact me, Diane, or another friend for allergy free recipes and support.
10. Most important...Have fun with your child. Happy Easter and Happy Spring!!