Food Allergy Awareness Month
May is Allergy Awareness Month, and it's a time to shine a light on what daily life is like for millions of allergy kiddos. Our daughter's allergies have been a part of our lives since day one, and it's been quite the journey.
Navigating food labels has become second nature to us. But it's not just about reading labels; it's about how it impacts our everyday life. Every playdate, every birthday party, we're always on high alert, making sure our daughter stays safe while still having fun.
I'm sure it can be awkward or even a bit intimidating for other moms. You might feel uncomfortable asking about allergies or worried about accidentally serving something that could cause a reaction. But trust me, we're not expecting you to be experts. Just asking a simple question like, "Are there any food allergies I should know about?" can make all the difference.
But here's the thing – we're all in this together. And while it might feel a bit uncomfortable or even daunting at times, I want to encourage all moms, whether your kids have allergies or not, to ask questions and stay informed.
When you're planning that picnic or playdate at the park, it's okay to ask if anyone has any food allergies. Trust me, us allergy moms will appreciate it more than you know! And if you're not sure about something, don't hesitate to ask. Whether it's about ingredients in snacks or how to use an EpiPen, no question is too small when it comes to keeping our kids safe.
While we're on the topic of parks and playgrounds, crumbs and food residue left behind on equipment or in the sandbox can be a big problem for kids with allergies. So, let's all do our part to keep our parks and playgrounds clean.
That means tossing any leftover snacks in the trash instead of leaving them on the ground, wiping down tables and benches after we use them, and maybe even giving the equipment a quick once-over with a disinfectant wipe if we see any food residue.
By working together and staying informed, we can create safer, more inclusive spaces for all kids to play and have fun. So let's keep those parks clean, ask questions when we're unsure, and most importantly, keep our kiddos safe and happy.