Twenty percent of parents believe their children with food allergies don’t receive party invitations due to dietary restrictions, according to new research. The OnePoll survey of 500 parents found 40% think other parents fear buying inappropriate food items. More than half worry their children miss social bonding opportunities, while 66% have overheard party discussions their child wasn’t included in. Eighty-four percent of those parents attributed exclusion to dietary requirements. Parents estimate their children miss an average of four parties because of allergies. Thirty-four percent reported their child faced teasing over food restrictions. Twenty-eight percent always worry their child will consume dangerous foods at parties, with 60% saying their child couldn’t eat provided food. Sixty-seven percent send backup snacks including fruit, vegetables, and rice cakes. (Story URL)
PHONE TOPIC: How has your child’s allergy negatively affected their life?