Making Tasty Memories
Just because a child doesn't eat "mainstream" foods doesn't mean camp meals can't be fun - and safe. The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN) has published important guidelines for safely managing food allergies at camp.
Here are some of FAAN's helpful tips:
- Well before camp begins, inquire what's on the menus and prepare to send similar foods for your child. Most camps will work with you. Some will provide some of your child's special foods, upon request.
- Most camp kitchens have one staff member designated to help with special diets. Find this person and work closely with him/her.
- If your child has multiple food allergies, you'll be making a lot of the food yourself. Package individual servings in microwave containers. Label the containers with your child's name and contents. Keep it simple - pack ready-to-eat foods that only need reheating. Then give the camp director, the kitchen staff and your child a list of what you're sending.
- Most camps are good about storing camper's special food in their walk-ins and pantry. Some even have refrigerators specifically allocated for special foods. Allergic campers can, with permission, help themselves.
- If the camp allows care packages, send your child's favorite cookies, enough to share with the bunk mates and counselors. If your child has his/her birthday while at camp, send along a birthday cake to put in the freezer.
Visit www.foodallergy.org or call 800-929-4040 for additional details. |
