Are you tense over inviting someone potentially having multiple food allergies to your baby’s birthday party? Which foods are safe? Which are not? And the biggest concern, what if someone gets a severe allergy to the food?
This can present a challenge when planning your child’s birthday party. A few helpful tips in the party preparation can ensure a safe, fun, and memorable birthday celebration for all:
- Most parents of a food allergic child understand that you will not feed their child food containing the specific allergen. For example, you would not serve a birthday cake with nuts or a peanut butter sandwich to a child with a peanut or nut allergy. The concern for parents is the cross-contamination of foods that might be considered safe.
- Cross-contamination is when a “safe” food comes in contact with the allergen. One of the ways cross-contamination can occur is through shared utensils and /or shared manufacturing equipment. This is often the case with birthday cakes purchased from a bakery that customers use to send cake to Chennai or anywhere else. Even though the cake may not have nuts, it “may contain” nuts because it was made on equipment that also produces other products with nuts.
- Communication with a child’s parent prior to the party can alleviate concerns. Discussing what will be served at the party, as well as safe food options, helps to avoid surprises. It is best to gain as much information about food restrictions or safety concerns prior to the celebration. This will allow you time to plan safe foods or to contact the parent if you are unable to make changes to your menu. In addition, this gives the parent the information they need to determine if they are comfortable having their child attend.
- When inviting your child’s class to a party and do not know all the students, it is friendly to add a line to the invitation “If your child has a food allergy, please contact us, so we can discuss safe options”. If a child has food allergies, the parent may opt to bring their own food and only allow their child to eat the food they brought to the party. Do not take offence. They are being respectful of your time as well as the safety of their child. Most parents of food allergic children are used to providing a special cupcake or treat for their child.
- Children with food allergies often carry an Epi-pen. This is an emergency medication which is used to temporarily counteract an allergic reaction. If the parent is leaving a child at the party with medication or an Epi-Pen, you may want to meet the parent prior to the party to review medical treatment/training. It is vital that you or another adult at the party is comfortable with administering medication and understands what steps to take in the event of an allergic reaction. If you are not satisfied, you may want to ask the parent to stay and provide an assignment (i.e. photographer, food server, game timer) so that they feel helpful and their child does not feel as though the parent is there solely to watch over them.
- If you feel comfortable having the parent drop off their child, it is nice to leave all the food packages out or available should they want to confirm the ingredients. While you may have gone over this, having the parent look at the labels can provide additional comfort for both you and the parent.
- Another safe idea is to use more non-edible items when possible. For example, there are numerous fun party favours that can replace candy in pinatas. Children love little toys for prizes. Party bags can include toys or crafts that were made at the party.
- Taking a few extra steps prior to the party will eliminate uncomfortable or potentially unsafe situations. Parents will be so grateful for the time you took to ensure a safe environment for their children. Your child’s birthday is a special day, and they will appreciate that you made it possible for them to include all of their friends. With some planning and communication, both you and your guests can relax and enjoy your child’s party.
Speaking of planning, how about we take a look at some menu options for the party?
Table of Contents
Chips and Dips
Corn tortilla chips alongside guacamole, salsa and bean dip are a must for any birthday party table. Also famous is chile con queso, a spicy, hot cheese dip.
Sliders
Try a spicy take on the slider phenomenon by adding salsa, cornmeal and pepper jack cheese to these much-loved miniature burgers.
Chile Cheese Tart
1-inch premade appetisers pastry shells are the best thing that’s happened to parties since the wine charm phenomenon. You can fill these bite-sized cups with any filling you can think of, savoury or sweet. We suggest a combination of fresh green chiles and cheese. Depending on guests’ preferences, you may adjust the heat accordingly.
Mini Tacos
Seek out small, soft corn tortillas. Fillings can include beans, cheese, fish or meats. You can premake the tacos or set up a taco bar where guests can make their own.
Quesadillas
Tuck spinach and mushrooms with cheddar cheese between two flour tortillas and saute until brown. You can use smaller-sized tortillas for individual portions. If you are using 10-inch or larger tortillas, you may slice the quesadilla into smaller servings once cooked.
Agua Fria
This refreshing drink can be made from almost any blended fruit. First, liquefy a fruit, such as watermelons, mangoes, lychees, etc., in the blender. Strain the mixture to eliminate seeds. Serve with a mint leaf garnish if you like. This will be an instant hit!
Flan
This steamed caramel custard dessert has a creamy texture and is easy to make in advance. It can be served cold or at room temperature in small, individual-sized ramekins.
Lastly, be cautious and confirm with your guests ahead of time to check and see whether they have some unique food allergies that you should know about ahead of time. And, have a wonderful party!