Education and Changing Attitudes

This week seems to be throwing up some interesting issues, which have taken up some head and emotional space.

Our local indoor playground (0-6 yrs) has decided that it is OK to serve peanut butter to children as long as no children with allergies are present. They consider this OK as they will endeavour to supervise the children and get them to use wet wipes afterwards. Trying hard to see the positives in this decision leads me to consider that at least they are  prepared to consider food allergy management even if it is a little misguided! Here is an opportunity to provide some accurate information about the "risks" associated with such actions..... So I shall be putting pen to paper and seeing what kind of  response I get, before taking a slightly more proactive approach. Watch this space........

The second challenge of the week involves a parent who seems to be challenged by the issues of cross contamination. Not wanting to bore you with the details, I should just say that some people have absolutely no idea about how to keep kids with allergies safe. What is more concerning is that they go out of their way to actively dismiss advice or information.

These incidences highlight the importance of picking your battles and being clear about the long term goal. There is no point ranting and raving about the injustices of situations or getting upset about insensitiveness of individuals.

I'm trying really hard to see what these incidences provide me in terms of 'opportunities'?

How can I ensure that my local indoor playground space is safe for kids with allergies and in particular my kids.

Secondly and most importantly how can I more actively communicate these issues within the community to ensure my daughters safety. The incident with the parent provides me with an excellent opportunity to engage in a further discussion about cross contamination issues within the school environment. If managed correctly it will improve my daughters safety at school and also hopefully enable her to purchase items form the canteen in the future.

Each challenge provides new opportunities, the trick is to let go of the steam/anger/frustration and overall emotion and try really hard to grasp a positive spin on the situation. Seeing it as an opportunity to propel me to the next challenge, which undoubtably will only be around the corner:)

None of this would be possible without the friendship and amazing support of friends who have been there before and who have experienced the many challenges we as parents of kids with allergies face daily. So my since gratitude and appreciation goes out to my friends who provide me with the much needed space and shoulder to cry on when needed. Without you it would be hard to keep such a positive spin - Thank you:)xx