14 May, 2009
How to plan a nut-free birthday party
Posted by andrea tomkins in: Easy ways to make kids happy|Recipes and Food
Emma’s tenth birthday is on Friday and she’s invited three friends for a sleepover. We’ve deemed this one a “favourite things” party. We’ll be serving spaghetti for dinner (with Nana’s special sauce of course) and root beer floats, followed by popcorn and a special movie (she chose Howl’s Moving Castle). And then of course, there’s the cake (golden) and ice cream (vanilla).
When I found out one of the little girls has a serious nut allergy I had a bit of a freak out. I have been so busy this week. Did I even have time to ensure the kitchen was nut free? What could I do to minimize the risks?
Well, this is what I’ve done.
1) Spoke to the mother. In fact, she came over this afternoon and gave me a tutorial on how to use an epi-pen. The odds of the girl having an allergic reaction are very slim, but now I feel good knowing I know what to do in case of emergency. The child will have an epi-pen and the mother is on my speed dial if I need her.
2) I’ve checked the ingredients on the cake mix and the frosting and ran them by the mother for her approval. In the past I’ve used candy from the bulk store as cake decoration but this time I’m steering away from anything bulk. Bulk food bins and scoops can be contaminated with nuts/nut residue. I’m buying prepackaged candies to decorate the cake and I’m …
3) … paying close attention to the labels. i.e. Is the Chapman’s ice-cream nut free? Check!
4) I’ll give the kitchen and dining room table a good wipe-down.
5) We’ll refrain from eating anything nutty the day before.
6) I’ll unwrap a fresh block of butter for the next day’s pancakes. (I’m worried about PB residue.)
7) I’ll try not to hover and freak anyone out.
I hope I have my bases covered. Any additional tips would be most appreciated!
