November '06 Bulletin
(Meeting held: 11/15)
Topic #1. Share your child's story
We spent a lot of time getting to know each other. Half the children in the group also have asthma. The ages ranged from 28 months old to 7 years old. We recommend you read "How To Manage Your Child's Life-Threatening Food Allergies" by Linda Marienhoff Coss.
Topic #2. Cooking tips and recipes
Several cook books were recommended such as: What's to Eat? The Milk-Free, Egg-Free, Nut-Free Food Allergy Cookbook by Linda Marienhoff Coss. Go to www.Allergicchild.com for more information on cookbooks, etc.
We also said to check out www.foodyoucaneat.com to get specific recipes for your child's food allergies.
Alisha recommends: Great Foods Without Worry by Cindy Moseley.
The Gak's Snacks Allergy Cookbook by Jill Robbins. (available at Gaks Snacks and can be included in our group order)
The Complete Peanut Allergy Handbook by Scott H. Sicherer, M.D.. (everything you need to know about peanut allergy)
A great cooking tip from the Rachel Ray show (she also did a special on food allergies, see her website).. was to grind up pretzels in a blender in place of breadcrumbs for those with the dairy allergy. My kids love it and had fun!
Topic #3. How to keep your child safe during the holidays
1) Host your own allergy free holiday. Ask people to bring wine (no food).
2) Bring allergic child's meal (similar to menu if you would like) just as you would when you go to a party or restaurant.
3) Always carry all of the necessary medication and wipes on you. Keep child's hands clean and wipe down table and chairs.
4) Go to Holiday gathering before or after food is served. Educate the host on your child's situation and ask them to have everyone wash their hands after they eat.
5) Don't serve any food to your child that isn't prepared by you.
6) Call before you leave to confirm there isn't food out like peanuts or cheese doodles.
7) Have your child sit between you and your husband during the meal.
8) Don't use non-food items without checking ingredients first (milk can be found in soaps, lotions, shampoos, and even toothpaste).
Topic #4. Coping with people in your child's life who just don't get it
Those who don't get it simply cannot care for your allergic child. Someone who is trustworthy, will follow instructions and know how to react in an emergency.
When you encounter someone who is in disbelief, there are two things you can say:
~ "Unfortunately you are not educated on the dangers of Anaphylaxis, and as a Mother I know what is best for my child."
~ "Just because you can't see it, doesn't mean it isn't REAL."
HIT THEM WITH STATISTICS.
Does your child have
severe food allergies?
You've come to
the right place.
