Brenda

How can I explain to my 5 year old that most of his favorite treats can't be eaten in our home anymore with out mentioning that it is because of his brothers severe milk allergy...

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Rose

I wonder why you don't want to mention that it is because of his siblings allergy. I do understand that you don't want your 5-yr old blaming your 1 yr-old. However, you are a family and families watch out for each other. my 2y/o understands this so I hope your children will grasp it quickly. Perhaps it can be simply told that "milk could make the 1 yr. old very sick and have trouble breathing (or go to the ER or whatever your case would be without weighing it down with too many words and scary situations). We want (1yr old) to be safe and healthy. We do that in this family by not having anything with milk in it, in our home." You may also suggest that when 5'yr old goes to friends homes he may still have those foods, he just needs to remember to wash well before coming home -- if that is acceptable to you. You may also try to plan "special outings" for your 5 y/o where he gets to have a special treat. I would put special emphasis on that fact that you are a family and families do what is best for each other. And show ways that your 5y/o is important to the family too (not just the 1y/o).

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2girlsandaboy

We are in a similar situation. We have a 1 year old with allergies and a 2 year old and 5 year old that don't have allergies. I have explained to the older children that they can't have some foods in the house because it will make Bailey very sick. They have been really good with it and we have their "treat" food that he can't have when he is in bed or we go out for a special "girls only date" and leave Bailey at home with his date - that makes it fun and special for all parties

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www.kiwikidswithallergies.co.nz
Allergy Alerts For Children