If you have a child with food allergies, then you know the anxiety that can come with sending them to school or taking them to a restaurant. For many families affected by food allergies, summer camp seems out of the question. But with the right preparations, every child – even one with food allergies – can enjoy summer camp.
Whether it's a day camp or sleepaway camp, asking camp staffers the right questions can help put your concerns to rest. First, ask the camp administration how food allergies are handled. With food allergy rates on the rise as children, more and more camps are formulating plans for accommodating these children. Many, for example, eliminate common allergens from the menu.
Second, how are allergic reactions handled? There is always the chance of contact with an allergen, as parents of children with allergies well know. How would such an emergency be handled by the camp? Is medical attention available rapidly? How close is the camp from the nearest hospital? These questions can help you ensure that your child will be in good hands should a reaction occur while they are away at camp.
Does the camp have experience with children who have more than one food allergy, or with uncommon food allergies? While most camps have run across children with common food allergies such as those to gluten or peanuts, not all of them have experience with other forms of food allergy.
There are also ways you can help your child avoid potential dangers. Pack snacks and lunches at home, teach your child not to switch foods with other campers, and have your child wear a medic alert bracelet so that camp staffers will know about your child's allergy in the event of a medical emergency.
Summer camp can be a fun, safe experience even for children with a food allergy. By being proactive and asking the right questions, you can ensure a memorable experience for your child. Read more tips here: http://www.opposingviews.com/i/making-summer-camp-safe-kids-food-allergies
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