If your child has been invited to a party and there’s likely to be food provided, what can you do to reduce the risk?
Most parents will be understanding and happy to accommodate, but it’s going to be easiest to discuss it before they go out and buy the food they are planning to serve!
Give them a list of what they are allergic to, and typical things that might be a concern e.g. pizza for milk allergy, chocolate for nut allergy. Explain how cross contamination can occur if bowls/plates are shared or if kids don’t wash their hands afterwards (hand gel does NOT get rid of allergens, only bugs!).
Offer to bring your own food, and make sure your child understands they can’t help themselves to what’s on the party table. If you bring your own food, you can ask if you can still use the same plates as everyone else!
Ask if you can plate up food for your child before anything is put out, to prevent risk of contamination. Ask the host to keep the packets and packaging (ideally unopened) until you get a chance to look yourself. You could then plate up food for your child first.
Make sure you bring your allergy medicines (including inhalers if appropriate) and allergy plan, and leave contact details if you’re not staying.