Children's allergies and birthday parties - Orlando FL event planner

Allergy advocates, moms and of course event planners are all concerned about the types of foods served at birthday parties. Children who live with multiple food allergies is just a fact of life today and when we are planning the party, it must be taken into consideration. The more communication the better. As we meet to discuss the party planning, this is one of the top concerns. Allergy facts must be included in the initial invitation and once the invites are back, it is our responsibility to address this for the child affected.

Allergy language for the invitation:

On every invitation you should include the following three questions:

Are you aware of any allergy that your child has such as an allergy to peanuts? Please provide info.
Please list the foods to avoid which might harm your child. We will take this into consideration.
Please provide a suggestion for a treat we could serve your child. We want all children to enjoy the party.
Does your child have a particular medical device or an emergency plan available? Please provide information.

To go further the invitation might actually list the meal or snacks to be provided, along with activities planned for the party. Let the parents know you will be happy to help. If lunch is being served at the party, let the allergy parent know they can feel free to provide a meal form home based upon the child’s requirements. For those children who need gluten free desserts, there are some great recipes online at Betty Crocker. They can also provide safe snacks for all of the children. This will help to make the child feel included in the festivities.

Include the allergy parent for more supervision:

A great suggestion is to have the allergy parent stay at the party as another set of eyes. The level of comfort must be there for all parents. Some parents find no problem in just dropping the child off at the party. However, this is frowned upon since the party planner is now obligated to watch your child. Some planners insist they are not there to babysit but to provide coordination and direction for the party festivities. For the allergy parent, extra supervision is needed to keep the allergy child safe. More supervision means a calmer environment and more fun for all of the children attending.

Party venue is a facility:

This type of birthday party definitely requires parental control. Children who have allergies that attend a facility event will need a parent there to make sure the child stays safe and eats only the items allowed based upon their allergy. There may also be an indoor play area and other interesting spaces. This means the child could be jumping and playing with other children. There should be at least one parent on hand in case of injury. More facilities do require parental supervision.

Restaurant venue for birthday party:

When the party is held at a restaurant, you will find they don’t normally permit outside food to be brought into the venue. However, if you explain the situation with any allergy concerns, you may be allowed to bring specific items for the allergy child.

What is a birthday … without a cake?

Moms should relieve the hostess or party planner by providing an alley-gree cake for the child not allowed to enjoy the normal birthday cake. We have found that most parents are ready and willing to do this or at least ok with providing a recipe for an allergy-free dessert. Some parents will suggest a special individual cupcake for the allergy child. Cupcakes are always a popular choice and they keep the portion size down to a minimum. The smaller size cupcakes are great for little hands.

Conclusion: Preparation is key to every good outcome. The more the party planner and/or parent prepares for the party, the better the chances are for a perfect party experience.

EpiPen® Auto-Injector training:

Party planners should be familiar with auto-injectors used in allergy emergencies. There is training available online and from most kid-friendly medical facilities. Knowing the children who are attending the party will serve you well as you plan the perfect party environment. Remembering the special situations for each child will insure that your party will make all children happy.