Holiday fun for kids with food allergies

Holiday parties are full of yummy foods that can also be dangerous for children with food allergies. Pediatrician Tanya Remer Altmann, MD talks about the precautions parents should take at holiday gatherings, in particular.

Transcript

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As your child gets older, coach him before the event. Remind him what he's allergic to, where it might be hiding,

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and what questions to ask the host. [MUSIC PLAYING]

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I'm Dr. Altmann. Birthdays, holidays, and other celebrations are supposed to be all about fun. But for parents of kids with severe food allergies,

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they can be a little scary, too. You want your child to have fun, but you also want them to stay away from anything that might

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trigger an allergic reaction. Try some of these parent-approved tips to make sure those celebrations are fun and safe.

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First, come prepared. Bring some allergy-free treats your child can enjoy. Even when your child is very young,

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talk about what he's allergic to and where those allergens might hide. As your child gets older, coach him before the event.

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Remind him what he's allergic to, where it might be hiding, and what questions to ask the host. Scrutinize labels on any treats.

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And remember, mini-sized candies may have different ingredients than their full-sized counterparts. When in doubt, throw it out.

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Finally, if your child is prone to anaphylaxis, that's a severe allergic reaction, always carry an epinephrine pen.

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And don't forget to have a good time. I'm Dr. Altmann. Check out all our smart tips for more ways