Navigating Food Allergies & Dietary Needs at Camp

While your child excitedly anticipates all the fun and sun that summer camp offers, you may be worried about their food allergies and how to keep them safe without being there to check everything they eat. Though the idea of your child managing their allergies independently may seem overwhelming, summer camp is a great chance for them to develop their confidence regarding their health. With thoughtful planning, open communication, and proactive measures in place, your child is sure to have a safe and enjoyable summer camp experience.

Understanding Food Allergies

Food allergies are the result of a body’s immune system identifying certain foods as a threat and triggering an allergic reaction. Symptoms usually appear within minutes to a couple of hours after initial exposure to the allergen and can vary widely. Reactions can include skin hives, dizziness, itchiness, swelling, difficulty breathing, vomiting, cramps, or even loss of consciousness. The most severe reaction is anaphylaxis–a life-threatening reaction that causes the body to go into shock.

Have an Open Conversation with Your Child

Awareness and preparation are essential to preventing allergic reactions. Sit down with your child and have an honest conversation about their allergies. This conversation doesn’t have to be scary, but it should highlight the importance of staying healthy. Go over what types of food they need to avoid, what to do in case of an allergic reaction, how to read ingredient labels, and how to ask about food preparation methods.

Children may feel sad about or embarrassed by their allergies. This may stem from feeling “different” than others or disappointment in their inability to eat the same thing as everyone else. Let them know that it’s okay to have allergies and that it won’t take away from their camp experience. Teach them that it’s okay to advocate for their health, especially if they feel unsure about the food they have been served.

Communicate with the Camp

Review the camp’s food allergy policy and ensure that it aligns with your child’s needs. Inform the camp that your child has food allergies and communicate any dietary restrictions they should prepare for.

There’s no harm in double-checking for safety–feel free to ask how the food is prepared; if there is a possibility for cross-contamination, and if staff members check ingredient labels before serving. See if the camp can prepare meals separately or even serve pre-packaged meals that avoid cross-contamination. This will give you more peace of mind about camp meal times.

Provide the camp with your emergency contact information and a list of your child’s allergies and symptoms, and ask about the camp’s safety procedures. Check that they keep epinephrine and antihistamines in stock, and ensure that your child will have access to an auto-injector if needed.

With the right preparation, children with food allergies can enjoy summer camp as much as any other child. By selecting a camp that’s prepared to handle food allergies, communicating health needs, and educating your child on how to advocate for themself, you can ensure a fun summer of new friends, experiences, and memories.