Food Allergies at End of the School Year Celebrations

It's that time of year again. Seniors are graduating today at many high schools around the region, and there will be parties and celebrations afterwards. It's a minefield for those individuals managing food allergies, but hopefully at age 18 or thereabouts--in addition to being ready for all the usual adult responsibilities that come with high school graduation--they are ready for managing their food allergies solo. They have been practicing food allergy management for years. Hopefully, they are well equipped now to make sound decisions about  food allergy management and all the other challenges that will come. As a bright young local author wrote:

"You are standing on the ravine of adulthood, one loose pebble from tumbling down into grownup; there is the thunder in your lungs and hurricanes in your brain. Do not let anyone issue a storm warning. You are ready for this. Every moment in your life has led to the next. Breathe and trust. Live and let go...the world is at your fingertips. It's your turn to set it on fire."

For the younger set, there are still end-of-the-school-year celebrations--picnics, barbecues, field days-- and ceremonies celebrating the transition from elementary to middle school, middle school to high school, and even pre-school to elementary school. Like it or not, these celebrations often involve food. So be prepared, check with the planners for these events and celebrations and find out if food is involved, and what you can do to not only protect your child but ensure that they feel just as much a part of the celebration as their peers.