What Is Peanut Free?
Peanut free means peanut safe. Does that mean an entire lunchroom must eliminate peanuts to be safe, or is a peanut free section sufficient? What is your opinion? Below are opinions sent in from the visitors to this web site. If you have an opinion you would like to share, please fill out the form below.
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Visitor Comments
Cynthia
Peanut free lunchroom
Our school has the children eat their lunches in the classroom. There is no true cafeteria. This presents a problem for me. The lunch aids rotate around the rooms, so there may not even be supervision at times. I requested to board of education to look into the idea of creating a peanut free room for lunch. I don't think I had a choice in the matter. Has anyone else experienced this issue?
Nebraska
Peter Carroll
Lunch in classroom
My child eats lunch in the classroom. I prefer a completely peanut-free room. NO peanut products at all ! Peanut-free means to me ...nothing, nada, zero, none, zilch -----NO PEANUT PRODUCTS. There is no room for error.
Oklahoma
Jen Zimmer
Yes, peanut free
Agreed. There is no room for error. Many people do not understand this!
California
Lauren P.
I believe in peanut free lunchrooms
I believe a peanut free lunchroom is needed. No peanut or nut products at all. This will create a safe environment.
Pennsylvania
Sam
No peanut free lunchroom
I disagree with Lauren from PA. I would like a peanut free table for my child. If you create a peanut free lunchroom, other problems will occur. I know a parent who took the wrappers off a peanut product, placed it in a baggie disguised, and sent it in with their child's lunch. This could have been very dangerous.
Utah
Anonymous
Peanut free
Where I work, we have a peanut free work area. My boss is allergic to peanuts, milk, and soy. It has not caused any problems. My daughter is allergic to nuts as well, but she is not in school yet, so I don't know what the policy is as of yet. My preference is no peanut products at all in the entire lunchroom. To me, peanut free means the entire facility.
Arizona
Mississippi
I don't agree
My 3 daughters are all allergic to peanuts and tree nuts. I am against banning peanut products from the school cafeteria. There are many children who like peanut butter sandwiches. It may be the only thing they eat for lunch. Since you want everyone to support your cause, you should also support them. By banning peanut products all together, you will probably lose the support of the families who want peanut products in their child's lunch boxes. As long as your school takes the correct precautions, this can be accomplished.
South Carolina
Peter Cavanagh
I disagree
I disagree with the woman with the 3 daughters. This is your child's life you are dealing with. There is NO margin for error. I have learned I cannot trust anyone at my child's school to take the correct precautions when it comes to my child's life!
England
Sean and Carol
Peanut Free
We believe firmly that schools should be peanut-free. Our child had a major problem at school due to some carelessness on behalf of the lunch room aid.
Nebraska, USA
Deanna
peanut free lunch rooms
My daughter is allergic to all nuts. Here we have a whole peanut free school. Lunch is only one meal in an day. Nuts can be kept home and if a child complains, maybe they are to spoiled. There are many great foods in the world to try.
Ontario
haddon harper
public schools
To me peanut free (safe) is just that. My child is touch sensitive. Any contact with residual oil will cause a reation. Is it possible to enforce a 100% free environment in public schools? Even segregation. There's no way every child is going to wash their hands before returning to class.
tulsa, ok
FD
Haddon is correct
Haddon.....You are absolutely correct. No way every child is going to wash their hands before returning to class. Some parents of the non allergic kids need to know this!
UK
Sid
Peanut Free
Haddon is right. No teacher is going to monitor every single child in the class all the time.
Arizona
Lilly
No Peanut Free Cafeterias
I do not agree that we need to cater to the few that have this allergy. I do understand that it can be severe but we need to educate not ban. We live in a democratic society. All this banning of various items is becoming more of a dictatorship.
California
Kirsten
Lilly is right!
I agree that we cannot become a dictatorship. If parents are so worried about the allergies they should home school their children and not go out in public. The world is not accomodating. Each of us need to learn to adapt to the environment in which we live in. My school has a peanut free table and there are only a handful of children that sit there. Most kids eat peanut products on a daily basis. Education is taught in my area and there have been no problems!
New York
Joey DeMaria
Ignorance
Kirsten: Your comment, "If parents are so worried about the allergies they should home school their children and not go out in public" is probably the most ignorant comment on this forum. Is your child allergic to nuts? If yes, then I feel sorry for them.
New York
Cynthia
The Truth
Joey, you beat me to it. I was going to post the same thing. Very sad!
San Fran, CA
Jill J.
Peanut Free
I can not believe some of the ignorance that has been displayed by comments such as Kirstens. To be a peanut free school does not mean that these peanut lovers have to give up their peanut butter forever, only at school, to ensure that other children can attend school without going into anaphalactic shock. Its too bad that many parents do not have the heart to understand this. Its not like we are asking them to give up water.
Kansas
Sam Polly
Thank you Jill
Thank you Jill. Very well put. To me, it's like leaving an open bottle of aspirin on a table in front of a young child. You just don't do it because you know it will hurt a child if ingested.
Missouri
Juliana
Lived through the lunchroom experience
Hi, I am currently in University, so the lunchroom days are behind me, but having been allergic to peanut/nuts all my life, I know firsthand what it's like. In my elementary school, children who brought peanuts/peanut products for lunch had to either eat them in another classroom, or in the hallway, and then had to wash their hands thoroughly. I never had any reactions (but understand some may be more sensitive than I am). I do know that those children were often mean and resentful that they had to leave because of me. So I completely understand that people think it's unfair, but they have to understand how important it is that everyone can be safe at school.
Ontario, Canada
Mary
Peanut free lunchroom
At our school, they sit at a peanut free table. This is a problem for me because it singles out a child. Also it does not create a safe enviroment for my child once back in the classroom. If a child sitting next to my child in the classroom ate a peanut butter sandwich at lunch and did not wash his hands properly he will "contaminate" objects in the classroom - now endangering my child.
North Carolina
lori
5 out of 21
yes only 5 out of 21 meals is all we are asking. the disablilty of peanut allergy is the most severe ever seen in schools. we should be proactive and go peanut free. how many kids need to die or go to the hospital traumatized by their own allergy? we need to keep the faith! kids cannot bring guns to school for the safety of others...so they shouldnt bring nuts either.
st. louis , missouri
John
Lori
Well written Lori. Thank you for your kind, intelligent words.
New York
kerri gagnon
peanut free
peanut free would be that they are not allowed in schools and unfortunately those who are uneducated may not realize that if a child has some peanut products at home then comes to school without brushing their teeth or washing hands thats just as dangerous.So the better term is peanut safe.
oshawa
Diana
Peanut/Nut Allergy
My three year old son is allergic to peanuts and nuts. Unfortunately, it only takes a miniscule amount of the nut to cause a serious life-threatening reaction. Sorry, but children need to be protected. He is just three years old. I can't believe that parents say it is "unfair" to stop children from having nuts and nut products at lunchtime. Come on parents, have a heart! Diana
Chicago, IL
Crystal
Education - not bans
I agree with Kristen. Her argument is sound - the world is definitely not accomodating, and education is everything. My child is also allergic to peanuts and tree nuts, and yes, I will be homeschooling him (not simply because of the allergies). Some are wanting to implement this ban which would affect the majority of children who don't suffer from allergies, but unwilling to do something so "insane" or "offending" as to homeschool the child for their safety (along with all the other benefits of homeschooling). I like the idea of a peanut-free table or area for those who do go to school or work. But I've never been a big fan of bans for the benefit of the minority even if I'm in that minority. My child may help to shape the world but never should expect the world to shape itself around him. Education is the key.
NH
Bob
Nut free schools
I agree that precautions need to be exercised in preventing episodes involving nut allergies, however you will never be able to eradicate the total possibility of it happening. I too feel that education is a powerful tool in this case. Both to the people WITH and WITHOUT the allergy. I feel that a separate area for non sensitive kids with strict handwashing PC would be appropriate as to allow them to live the life that they wish to while taking precautions for others. Kids with sensitivities, along with their parents will and need to take responsibility for their health without the major infringement of others. I am not about to take a crusade on shutting down food restaurants that use nut products on the chance that a person with a sensitivity may walk in and they have neglected themselve. People with medical conditions need to protect themselves because they cannot rely on others. Should we make schools sugar free for the newly diagnosed diabetic child who can't resist candy from his/her friend on the playground and may go into a diabetic coma? Something to ponder. Perhaps we all should live in a bubble.
North of Oshawa
Richard
Peanut
“We live in a democratic society. All this banning of various items is becoming more of a dictatorship.” First and foremost, we live in a Republic, and not a Democratic Society. The majority does not rule. We as citizens elect the representatives who we think will best represent our interests. The United States of America is a Republic and not a true democratic society. "If parents are so worried about the allergies they should home school their children and not go out in public.” I must admit, you make an excellent point, that is if the year is still 1972. However, the year is 2006. Remember your elected officials, who represent the majority of the population’s opinion, of this Republic enacted a law in 1973. The law is the American’s with Disabilities Act. That means that your logica is outdated by 33 years. The population majority has spoken; they want equal rights for everyone. Yes, even those with disabilities. Now comes the hard part. When your child is told that they can no longer take a peanut butter and jelly sandwich to school, they immediately become upset. Through your rose colored glasses, you can not see that your dear sweet child has transformed themself into Veruca Salt. “Daddy, I want an Oompa Loompa and I want one nowwwwww!” At this point, you need to look into the eyes of your five year old and do some soul searching. What will create more duress for my child: Not having a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, or watching her 5 year old classmate sitting next to her react as their throat swells shut. Then, her classmate’s tongue and lips begin to swell. Finally, because the student to teacher ratio at lunch time is about 500:1, her classmate goes unnoticed while experiencing a dramatic drop in blood pressure that is so dramatic that he / she turns blue and passes into the afterlife. What is easier, telling your child that they can not have peanut butter for lunch, or escorting that same child through a viewing line at a classmate’s funeral? Remember there are 180 school days in a 365 day year. At three meals a day, school lunches represent only 16.4% of your child’s meals consumed per year. As a parent, when you sent your child to school for the very first time in their life, you worried about many things. Will my child leave the bus and go directly to their classroom? Will my child speak out before raising their hand? Will my child be bullied? Will my child be popular? Will my child get on the correct bus to come home? As the parent of a child with anaphylaxis, you only worry about one thing. Will I get a telephone call from the school saying that my child will not be coming home? The children in my son’s kindergarten class are wise beyond their years. They are very protective of my son, and on several occasions have pointed out to their parents that they need to check the ingredient labels when packing lunches. I ask you, why are the parents getting upset, when their children are not? The look in a child’s eye as they look to you for protection and explanation of life’s complexities is absolutely priceless. Each night I pray for several things. First, that my child will have the wisdom to question before eating. Second, that he sees a world without prejudice or judgment based on appearances. Finally, I pray that his classmate’s parents realize that my son means as much to me as their child does to them.
Pennsylvania
Bob
Reply
In response to Richard...first your child doesn't suffer from anaphylaxis..that is not until he ingests a nut. He actually suffers from an allergy or sensitivity until he ingests a nut then it may become an anaphylaxis reaction. Second I pray too that your child will have the wisdom to ask questions before he eats as this may save his life some day. Because it is only him that can ultimately protect himself. Thirdly most of us do realize that our children mean the world to us as parents but... I'm not going to not tuck a peanut butter sandwich in my back pocket or my kid's knapsack on the whimsickle that your son may be behind me or my kid on the street, in school in the afternoon or at the library...etc.
North of Oshawa
Richard
Reply to Bob
Bob, Thank You for taking the time to both read and reply to my post. I could not agree with you more when you state, “I'm not going to not tuck a peanut butter sandwich in my back pocket or my kid's knapsack on the whimsickle that your son may be behind me or my kid on the street.” You are correct in your assertion. I am not refuting your right to do this at all. However, we were talking about an enclosed cafeteria, not eating walking down the street. Let’s stay on topic. Second you stated, “Second I pray too that your child will have the wisdom to ask questions before he eats as this may save his life some day.” Let me first sincerely thank you for your prayer, it truly means something to me. However, a 5 year old who happens to slide their hand across the cafeteria table and get 2 milligrams of peanut protein on their finger and then rubs their eye, may go into anaphylactic shock. I don’t know too many 5 year olds who possess the Wisdom of Solomon and could avoid this. Do you really mean that you made your children fend 100 % for themselves at 5 years old? I did however get a chuckle out of your allergy anaphylactic semantics game. This is a very typical play on words than many with your view will express. It tends to help them sleep better at night. Ok, to make you happy I will use the correct terminology, my son has anaphylactic allergies. “…..it may become an anaphylaxis reaction.” You know, if you go over Niagara Falls in a barrel, you may survive. Are you really willing to take the chance of putting your 5 year old in the barrel and letting them go over the falls? Remember, you said a 5 year old should have the wisdom to take care of them self. You have not however answered the most important question of them all. If left up to your child, would they choose peanut butter over their classmate? I guess I’m glad to be in the United States of America, because my son’s classmates have chosen 100% against peanut butter.
Pennsylvania
Sam
Richard / Bob
I say 'peanut free' should mean no peanuts at all. When you are putting your trust in a 5 year old to make a safe environment because the school does not take the allergy seriously, just ban peanuts. Unfortunately, I have been conditioned by a horrible experience.....scared. This is after workshops my wife and I presented to the school, memos, and tons of meetings with school personal. I don't want to take anymore chances. Bob/Richard, you both really are not far off from each other. The bottom line is, you want to protect your children, just differently. I admire both of you! -Sammy
New York
David
Solution
We'll, Richard and Bob both have great points! The problem, if the parents of children with peanut allergies can't agree, imagine how hard it is with the parents who don't have children with peanut allergies!
Maine
Jay
Outdoor Ban?
I just became aware that the day camp that my children attend has gone "peanut-free". Is this not going a little bit too far? If my child can't eat PB&J, outside, on 27 acres, where can he? Are we to believe that peanuts are more of a threat than cigarettes? Soon we will only be able to eat peanuts in our home...but what if the trashman is allergic...
Maine
Jennifer
Jay...
In regards to the outdoor ban, I understand why you think that might be going to far. However, keep in mind that many people with severe peanut reactions are contact sensitive. So if your child was to touch my child after he ate his peanut butter sandwhich, my child could go into anaphlyactic shock. Can you understand now why I might be a little paranoid? If you think depriving your child of a pb&j while at camp is detrimental, think of how your child would feel if his classmate was to become severely ill or die in front of them!
Kennesaw, GA
K. U.
Education and Compassion
My 4yo daughter is severely allergic to peanuts, first one in our family, and I must admit it has been a roller coaster learning and guiding her through some of what for a non-allergic children are life's most common experiences. For example how many parents with non-allergic children have to worry that for the split second you turn to help your 2yo at the park some well meaning mother or another child will not share a piece of candy with your daughter that could end her life in 30 minutes? And, believe me, this is despite your efforts to 'educate'-- a child that young simply isn't mature enough to manage their allergy. How many non-allergic parents must have a plan in place for avoiding potentially lethal poisons before a playmate's birthday or Halloween or playdates or preschool or the park or church or restaurant or the grocery store. . . ? Have you had to brush off the wish that your child had been born with a "less lethal" allergy? Or shoulder her while she cries because everyone else can eat what was brought? How many of you have to worry that someone who does not take this allergy as seriously as you do will not ask their child wash their hands after some peanut butter toast for breakfast despite having the knowledge that their is a peanut allergic child in the group? How many of you have had to sit bedside over your child in the emergency room of a hospital while your 18 month old fights for her life because of just such an episode? Life is difficult enough raising children, then add the extra challenge of trying to educate others and avoiding something that for most people is common food. Education is wonderful. With education comes understanding, and with understanding-- sometimes-- compassion. But only in as much as people are willing to lay aside some conveniences for the sake of a child's safety. There are certain places, schools being one of them, that ought to be safe for every child when it is feasible. I don't think banning peanuts is an insurmountable sacrifice to ask people to make. I would gladly do the same for a child with another allergy. Many thanks to those who are willing to extend that hand of compassion when their own child is not found amongst the allergic.
Western States
K.U.
"Are we to believe that peanuts are more of a threat than cigarettes?" To Jay-- Yes, to a peanut allergic person a peanut is much more deadly than a cigarette. Imagine for a moment that by merely inhaling cigarette smoke you or your child could experience suffocation and lack of blood flow to vital organs almost instantly and be dead in less than half an hour. Now insert peanuts and you have the scenario some of us face daily. I know it can be a real pain-- I have to live with it every day whether I like it or not. Especially with children who do not understand the implications or are more prone to handle the situation poorly extra precautions are necessary for their safety.
Western States
Richard
Jay and the outdoor ban
Jay, I’m extremely surprised that this type of response would come from such a liberal state. Where is the compassion that liberals are so famous for? When I saw that you were posting from Maine, I expected you to suggest a $2.00 per pack cigarette tax be imposed to fund a new state agency. An agency that would help parents of an anaphylactic child be better parents and offer millions in subsidies. You need to keep in mind that the camp you referenced is a public place of business. As such, it is required, by law, to comply with the ADA. This is typical of the limousine liberal mind set. Government regulations are great as long as they don’t invade my comfort zone. My suggestion would be to: A) Write your congress person or B.) Start your own “private” day camp. P.S. You may want to be a little less critical, the odds are against you. Chances are that one of your children, nieces, nephews, or grandchildren will be anaphylaxis.
Pennsylvania
Natasha
Lilly and kirsten are flat out selfish
To those who feel the same as these two. should realize if there kids turned out will this allergy. That their child could very well die so fast from a simple smear of peanut oil,should feel sad. we need to all come together and free our children with this allergy from the constant danger of those with the ignorance who continue to consume it knowing people die everyday from it.like they do from accidents. This is like a disease that is so preventable,unlike accidents. to not care for those with it and not support a 100% peanut/nut free everything, is 1000% selfish
Calgary ,Alberta
Natasha
peanut free
My son was diagnosed with peanut allergy when he was almost 3 it was a month before his third birthday. the doctors say you can start giving them peanut butter around age three. i had made homemade peanut butter cookies and my son normally never had them but this time i melted chocolate on them. he took one bite and started crying histarickly i got peanuts in my throat and asking for water. i tried to stay calm telling him its only peanuts in your throat you'll be o.k ,but after the water he was still crying . his lips looked to be turning purple and in the back of my mind thinking is he allergic, this can't be happenning.then he seemed tired and it was close to nap time, so i put him to bed.. then few seconds later he was crying i came to him and he had vomited and i took him to the toliet and he continued vomiting. Then he started rolling on the floor crying his stomach hurt. i had no vehicle and was pannicking .then my mom was on her way. by the time she arrived he had purple hives bubbled all over his body.To end the story he got treatment and was o.k that was the most scary day of my life. Now we carry and epi-pen every where we go he wears it in his fanny pack around his waist. i find that way it's always right with him just in case. he will be going to school soon and i worry. he knows how to protect himself we practice situations that may arrise everyday. but i fear other people might not take as much care with the peanut issue with there kids leaving my son vonurable to those kids who ate peanuts/products, may contains ,etc. with out washing up. causing a chain reaction from oils on toys fingers and every thing, my son could touch. if i am not there he could be in real danger.I feel home school is a good idea. but i know if i were to do that my son would miss out on the interacting and socializing and greatness of school.I wish we could take away these nuts right out of society so people no longer have to die from something we can control or just take nuts out of products period and if people want nuts in their food they can buy the nuts and make thier own peanut butter or put the nut in their own cookies. but other wise have no products sold containing them. i see that as a comprimise to banning them all together.Our kids with this allergy deserve a normal life. only we can make it safe only we can change this world to make it a better place. instead children are dying because we can't get enough of those nuts. nuts are a killer like a loaded gun waiting to to go off save our children lets make this world peanut /nut free. don't let the gun go off on your kid or your kids friend. kissing can now kill just because of peanuts/nuts holding hands with a friend can now kill because of peanuts/nuts. why do we let such a product control our lives and kill our children. i hope and pray for the day their are no nuts. so we don't have to live in fear we might loose our child someday from a kiss or hand shake lets keep praying someday our allergic child will be free of the fear and constant danger and they will get to live a normal day where a birthday party or dinner party or any event where their is food involved can be safe. thanks for listening
Alberta
Sean Manning
Re: For Jay
Jay, have you ever seen a child go into Anaphylactic Shock? If you did, you probably would not have written what you did. In fact, if you're child ever went into Anaphylactic Shock, you would be disgusted with your ignorant comments. With all do respect, we are talking about the safety of young children. We all need to work together and make it safe for everyone, every child. Stop being so selfish! You're child can live without peanut butter, but other child won't live with it around.
Ireland
Bob
At what age?
So tell me people at what age would it be appropriate for me to not have to worry about peanut products...middle school...high school...the work place...all on the chance that someone might have an allergy. Hell we might as well all crusade to get rid of the worlds supply of peanuts!!! I'm all for protecting children through education and PRECAUTIONS, but the rest of the world needs to live their lives as well. There will come a time when that child will have to look out for themself as they do grow up...unless you chose to put them into a bubble for their childhood. We all have issues in life be it social or medical issues and we need to deal with them ourselves...not pawn the responsibility of dealing with the issues to someone else. I have severe asthma...a life threatening condition...do I crusade around asking people not to smoke or wear strong perfumes as it may trigger my life threatening condition...no I deal with it myself....by educating myself and protecting myself against the risks. Come on...deal with it and educate your children how to protect themslves because some day when you cut the umbilical cord, if you ever do, they will need to look fter themselves
North of Oshawa
Maureen
Living with your allergy
My daughter has a dairy allergy that is so severe, even trace amounts will cause a severe anaphylaxis reaction. Ban Milk in schools ? No way! There are a couple of limitations in her classroom (no open milk cartons), but the cafeteria has no restrictions. She has learned to live with her allergy at school, and so have her friends. They have become more knowledgable and careful about allergies, than most grown-ups. Our dairy free home is not the 'real world', so by introducing dairy in a safe school setting, she has become mature and responsible with her allergy, and better trained to face the real world, where dairy is prevalent. She also carries her epipen on her at all times, a school policy regarding allergies. Learning to live with her allergy at school has been an excellent life lesson, something she couldn't learn in our artificial 'dairy free' environment at home. Banning the allergic food at school, doesn't prepare them for playgrounds, restaurants, shopping centres etc where trace amounts are possible. Train your teachers, administrators, friends and parents, and then let your child learn to live with their allergy.
British Columbia
John
Peanuts vs. Milk
My question to Maureen.....milk is severe, but can it cause problems being airborne? New studies have shown this about peanuts, and if you saw the report on Good Morning America, the boy in the video got sick with airborne peanut dust. Yes, you need to be careful with milk, and I respect that. If milk can cause a problem being airborne, then I have even more respect for how you protect your child. If milk is not airborne, then there is a huge difference in your opinion when it comes to the peanut allergy.
Amherst, NH USA
Jennifer
Peanut Free School?
At first I went with the concept of not asking the school to put others out by making it "peanut free", but after all of the mistakes and almosts that have happened, I truly feel like the only way for everyone to feel safe is to make a Peanut Free School. Only problem is that people like the mother of 3 and Kirsten stick a dagger in all of our efforts and we cannot get "peanut free" results. It is very sad how some mothers can't part with peanut butter for a school day.
New Jersey
Jennifer
How far do we go?
It's hard to say. At this point in my child's allergy I would love to see him remain in peanut / tree nut free situations for the rest of his life. Is it feasible? Unfortunately, no. At the very least, I would like to see preschool and elementary school nut free. I have read on numerous boards that schools would like the children to be able to identify if a snack could be dangerous, ie contains nuts or has been processed on equipment that processes nuts. There are so many problems with that on so many levels it's baffling. First - how many 4 year olds do you know that can read food labels, or for that matter, that can read? Second - while it is now required that nuts be listed on a label, it is not required to list if it is processed on the same equipment or in a facility that processes other nuts - this requires extensive research on a parents part. A great example is Sunmaid raisins - these are a cross contaminated product that is not labeled as so, yet those with nut allergies would not know unless they have done the research or they had a reaction. Third - teach your children what it is they can eat. Sounds easy enough, right? Things change on a daily basis though. Again, its constant, dilligent research and quite frankly, prayers. Parents and adults who suffer from nut allergies can tell you about favorite products that are now off limits. Not to mention that some products are safe, but only in certain size packages. I don't know at this point what I would ask my son's junior or senior high school at this point to do for him. I hope at that point he will be able to identify the allergens himself and we can discuss what food items may be off limits due to contamination. I would love to have "nut free tables" for him to eat at just to make a little safer. I don't know what to do when it comes to college - again, hoping I taught him enough to keep himself safe. The same goes for work. Though it's funny that posters continue to bring that up. I worked for a relatively small office, a Jewish temple actually, that hired a new employee with several life threatening food allergies. We had no problems accomodating her requests. Nor did I have problems as a Christian not eating pork or shellfish at the office, as well as other restrictions during certain holidays. Either way, it was very small part of my day. For these parents who keep complaining about how inconvenienced you are because one child has a food allergy - think of what we go through on a daily basis. I am constantly checking labels, calling companies and spending time on boards with others who are in my same situation for updated information about products. Traveling is a nightmare that I have yet to be brave enough to tackle. It would involve calling ahead to several hotels and restaurants, checking menus and ingredients and rechecking upon arrival. At this point, if we are to go anywhere, it would have to be by car, because very few airlines can guarantee my child's safety. They are too busy trying to cater to closeminded people such as yourself.
Kennesaw, GA
Jack DePalma
Peanut Free
One word: EDUCATION This is what we need to preach, and be extremely tough about it. There is no room for error, and everyone in our children's lives needs to be aware of this and take every precaution!
Portland, Maine USA
Jared
Education
Agreed, education is the key!
Florida
Gabbi Reese
Thank you!
Wow, I just found out my son (age 3) was allergic to peanuts. He had a small bite of a cookie that caused a reaction. I just found this web site today. Thank you to all of you for all your contributions here. This web site has become a valuable resource for me. Thanks again for sharing all your knowledge and experience and opinions. I truly value all of you. Gab-
Missouri, USA
Debbie
Food Allergy - Peanut Ban
I think it will be very hard to actually implement a "peanut free" lunch room or school. Who will read all the ingredients in foods that children bring in their lunch? Who will make sure that all children that may have had peanuts at home have washed their hands? My son is allergic to peanuts, all dairy and eggs. If a school were to ban peanuts then would they also ban cheese, icecream, etc. To add to this, my son is in middle school and last year another student dropped grated cheese in his orange drink. Thankfully, he turned around and saw what she was doing and didn't drink anything more. Other children saw this and I have to believe would have told him what she had done before he would have taken another sip. Another time kids taunted him about dropping milk on his food so they could watch him "spaz out". He was scared to leave his food or turn away because of this. We never had a problem with this type of bulling until middle school. At what grade level would the ban stop? Personally, I worry more now then when he was younger. His teachers in grade shool were always very helpful and we never had an accident of any kind. He always had to bring his lunch and never ate a school lunch. He could never have any snacks that other people brought for birthday. It's a way of life for him and he is used to it. He looks out for himself but I know how easy an accident can happen. Accidents can happen at home, school or anywhere for that matter. I do think education is the key and I think the upper grade levels need to be included and maybe implement food allergies into their bulling programs. My post may upset some, but I just don't believe that anywhere can be truly peanut free when there is food from many different sources and in a public place.
Georgia
Cindy
Attention: Debbie
You have every right to voice your opinion. My son experienced similar issues in middle school. In a perfect world, others would be more understanding. Some kids are just downright cruel! They lack sensivitiy when something does not apply to them.
North Carolina
Fiona's Mom
Death by Anaphylaxis
Parent's say that banning peanuts is too extreme ... until it is their child's life that is jeopardized. Even with "peanut free" zones, a door knob, a basketball or a slide that is touched with sticky peanut buttery hands can become lethal to the allergy sufferer. The follow up to the solution should be mandatory handwashing by all students - not just hand-sanitizer (which kills bacteria, not peanut protein). My daughter had a reaction today in her peanut free preschool - one of the children had peanut products that morning and touched her. It doesn't take much, and the younger the child the more dangerous the situation is. My four-year-old is too small to administer her epi-pen jr. to herself or realize when this needs to be done. Also the teachers delay in responding hoping that it will go away and afraid they are over-reacting. We have special schools for autistic, handicapped, death and a whole range of physical and mental disorders. Does protecting human life from death by anaphylactic not warrant the same precautions and interventions of other disorders?
Utah
Krista
To Fiona's Mom
Having a child myself who has gone into a anaphylactic shock, I truly feel your pain. It is definately a wake up call!
New York
Arizona
Fiona
I hope your daughter is doing well. Hopefully there will not be too many day's like this for you again. To those of you who have been negative here, I wonder if you have ever seen a child go through anaphylactic shock?
Peter Mongolli
Rebecca
People like Kirsten
My child has just gone through one of the scariest peanut reactions yet. Her school is peanut free but that doesn't matter. Someone had peanuts before coming to school and touched her. After fearing for my daughters life and seeing her nose swell up with a look of horror in her eyes, I have been doing as much research as I can and came across this website. Reading that there are people like Kirsten in this world who are so worried about their children getting to eat peanut butter 24/7 that they disregard the life of a child, gives me little hope. This is a LIFE or DEATH situation. Yes, she's right the world is not an accomodating place, therefore, because we live in an era where peanut deaths are on the rise we can't have the accomodations of eating peanuts when ever or where ever we want. Have a heart and deal with it by helping to save lives. I could never comprehend how students at a nearby school could be so inhumane as to chase a child with a peanut allergy around the play ground with a peanut butter sandwhich, but now I know....they have parents like Kirsten. Who cares about being able to eat peanuts when we can care for others and make sure they stay alive. And...by the way, home schooling children is a great idea when you are only concerned about education. However, I am concerned about education for my daughter as well as social skills (dealing with others around her in a caring manner even if they are different.)
Arizona
Cindy Peters
Make it safe
I agree with Rebecca. We, as parents, are here to make it safe for ALL children. It is a team effort, no matter what the cause. We should all accommodate each other, because you never know when the shoe will be on the other foot, where people like Kirsten will need our help!
Florida
Kristin
Why them?
What I fail to understand is why it has become the school board and lunchroom supervisors job to monitor other peoples diets. If it is our childrens lives at stake shouldn't all us parents be more active in regulating their exposure to peanuts/nuts/other allergins. It can't always be someone elses responsibility. Let's take some responsibility for ourselves.
Ontario
Samuel
Think about it Kristen.....
Why Kristen?.....because the parents can't monitor what goes on in the schools.
Canada
Kristin
I disagree
But the point is that no one else can either. If I believe my childs life in is jeopardy then I am more active in protecting her. Everyone should look after their own childs needs, granted I think protective policies in the school are helpful, but certainly not the only measures that should be taken when you're talking about your childrens life! "the parents can't monitor what goes on in the schools"? Shouldn't we make it our job to do so for our childrens well being?
Ontario
Carlos
You cannot monitor everything
Kristen, you cannot monitor what you cannot see, and I have learned the hard way the schools need to assume a large responsibility. I understand your point, but you are wrong. Sorry.
New Mexico
Allison
Peanut free lunchrooms
The schools have to be completely peanut free. If kids don't wash their hands well or at all there is possibility of contamination elsewhere throughout the school.
Washington, St.
Bob
Taking responsibility for your own!!
I agree with Kristin. As I have stated at what point do we draw the line...at what age will my child be allowed to eat peanut butter at school, if ever, and with his luck he'd end up working at the same facility/company as your kid and not be allowed to eat it their either probably. EDUCATE your own children...take the responsibility...work with the boards of education to find a the safest comprimise that allows my child the freedom to eat what he wants too. Like I said before perhaps we should ban sugar too for the type 1 diabetics that are often discovered in the primary grades cause god knows kids love candy and suger and that could be fatal to a child with DM. Perhaps it should be standard issue to have bubble suits handed out at school because my child might like to have peanut butter on his toast once in a while for breakfast and may not get all the residue off. Perhaps we should shut down restaurants that cook with peanut oil just in case your family walks down the sidewalk and the airbourne particles diffuse out into the streets. In the States you have the right to "bear arms" and that doesn't seem to bother a lot of you down there...but peanut butter, that's a different story, there's something to get your arms up in the air about.
North of Oshawa
V Kincaid
Peanut free
Peanut free means peanut free. Not all children are allergic only by ingestion. We have proof of our child's allergy medically and we have seen it. She is 3 and has NEVER ingested a peanut product. I've been reading a lot of forums and people with no dealings with severe food allergies need to educate themselves. Reactions can be different with each exposure. We would like to keep our daughter alive when she goes to school. Possible contact with peanut or tree nut products at school just isn't worth her life. A peanut free table, bench or even separate room couldn't be an option for our child and many others. If a child consumes his yummy peanutty lunch and then vomits in the hall on the way to class - oops!? I don't think so. Suppose a child has peanut butter under his/her nails and accidentally scratches a peanut allergic child. Peanut/tree nut free means peanut free. I am just beginning my "fight" with our local school system. I hope I win or I'll have to home school - a sad life for an otherwise healthy little girl who desperately wants to go to school like her brothers. There are so many things we already have to say no to.
Virginia
Susan
child with eating problem at peanut free school.
My child's school just sent home a letter that a new child is peanut allergic and we are now peanut free. My heart goes out to this child, and I totally understand the precaution needed. Life or death is just that. My problem is that my son is such a problem eater. He only eats a handful of things. The healthiest is peanut butter and jelly. When I say a handful of things, I mean it. And if you think you can make a child like this eat whatever you wish for them to eat, try again. I have tried EVERYTHING. Even appetite stimulants which his doctor prescribed, but he could detect in everything, even soda! He is less then the fifth percentile in his weight for his age. Skin and bones, and everyone comments on it, where he is now annoyed by it. He's in third grade. He will eat three other things on the hot menu at school. Grilled cheese, offered only twice a month, french toast sticks, offered once a month, and pizza offered once a week, and one kind offered is spicy he says, so he won't eat it on those weeks. I am in a situation here because now my son will not have anything to eat. Plain bread I guess? How healthy is that? And/or appetizing. No, just jelly won't fly. Cereal, but how?If he does not eat at lunch, or just eats pretzels, he will be hungry all afternoon. He is definitely hungry by lunch. He will not be learning well due to his hunger. I'm trying to figure what I can do. I could make a grilled cheese or pizza at home and bring it myself, but what about work? I pay tuition, and was actually hoping for my sons to bring their own lunch to save money this year. But he does not eat meat, at all, no noodles either. I cannot fight with him over food. According to the experts, and his doctor, that is the worst thing to do and could create worse problems down the road. I just wanted to bring another scenario into light. It may not be that people just want their children to eat peanut butter for lunch because they feel they have a right to, or that the kids are just spoiled and want it cause they like it, it may be ALL they eat...I truly don't know what I am going to do. I'm thinking the school may have to accomodate my child too and cook something he WILL eat, so he won't go hungry. My older son is picky as well, but will eat more then my youngest, but he has complained of the quality of our school lunches as of last year. He said they are terrible. So most of last year he ate peanut butter and jelly. I just know now it will be a hot dog every day for him, and that upsets me as well, because now he will be eating those cancer causing nitrates on a daily basis. So you see, there is always the other side of the coin. Not everyone is upset about a peanut ban just because it is an inconvenience. I too worry about my children's health, although it is more of a longterm health worry. So I do see the peanut allergy parent's fears. So what can be done to accomodate everyone with needs?
Pennsylvania
Susan
just another thought
I was reading on peanut allergies to find out more about it, and I was shocked to read that a mother feeding peanuts to her child too early(before three), or ingesting too many peanuts while pregnant, could cause the allergy. I don't remember the doctor's ever telling me any of this when I was pregnant. Perhaps that is a good cause to get involved in. Why not get this message out there to pregnant and new mothers? I never knew this, thank God my children don't have the allergies. I am going to tell my friend who just had a baby. I did know about honey, and not giving a child that, before age 1 or something. If we get this message out there about possible early prevention, maybe the peanut allergy will drop in statistics in the future. If anyone wants a "fight" or a good cause, concentrate on that maybe.
Pennsylvania
Nicole
Peanut FREE!
I don't know truly how to go about saying all that I have on my mind right now but I have heard the comversations between parents with obviously non-allergic children. Things like... "Is it true I can't send a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with Suzy*,?" One parent asked while I was in the office, the administrator politly said, "We are discouraging you to do so, see for some children even the smell of peanuts can cause them to have an allegic reaction! And this is what the mother of Suzy* said, "I've heard that and that concerns me, but, Suzy* just loves peanut butter and Jelly! I wanted to throw my hands up in the air and say well my son Dylan who is allegic to peanut butter likes to be able to breath but I can't ask him to do that only at home, I can however ask that for my sons safty that you please allow suzy to keep her peanut butter at home! All though it may be a bit of an inconvience. I understand that I do! I believe that Dylan along with all the other children in this school who are allegic to peanuts or anything else for that matter have the right to a safe school environment away from anything that may bring them harm and in this case DEATH!!!! That is the part that has me soo up in arms! PEANUTS CAN KILL MY SON! Now my problem with that is anyone who brings in peanut butter has a weapon that could killed my son in less than 3 minutes! I would think that weapons are illegal at school!
Arizona
Lou Placema
Are you kidding me Bob?
First, your analogy is ridiculous. You cannot compare a diabetic child to peanut allergic child. There are no problems with cross contamination issues with diabetes, so you are way off. Second, when you say educate your children, do you mean a child in pre-school should fend for him/herself without the help of the teacher when others are eating peanut products? That must be a very smart 3 year old! On a side note, I have dealt with diabetes for many years with a loved one in my house, and not even concerned what people eat around him, but I am concerned with foods that may contain peanuts!
New York City, NY
Debbie
Peanut Free
This is such a hard subject for me. I have a previous posting on this site. I am touched by all the of these families with stories of thier children and what they face. My son, is allergic to all dairy, eggs, peanuts, and shellfish. He is in Middle School and now I have new concerns. He is now having more of a "social life" away from his parents. This issue is so important to all these allergic children and adults. I do see both sides and I love my son as much as any other parent loves their child. What is the moral, correct and best thing for these children? I am not sure. So far my son does not react to the just being around peanuts but I know that could change. He has reacted to exposure on the skin by milk and eggs as well of course as actually eating them. He is highly allergic to all these foods but I didn't keep him out of preschool or public school. He is a great kid, awesome athlete, and has a good head on his shoulders. It is tougher now as he is getting older. I do worry about him but I also know he has to learn to get along everywhere and look after himself to stay safe. The schools he has attended do serve peanut products and dairy, along with foods containing egg. I guess, with him being allergic to all of these foods, I could not ask the schools to take all of these foods out. I do however, understand the children that have the allergic reaction to just breathing the peanut allergen. I am torn with this subject. It is now up for discussion at our church. I wish I knew the answer that would help us all. Pray, keep a careful watch and make sure that anyone that is responsible for our allergic children are well informed of what can happen and what to do if something happens.
Georgia
Violet
To Susan in PA and Debbie in GA
I have the 3 year old with peanut (airborne, touch don't know about ingestion) allergy. She also has many other food allergies only by ingestion, as far as we know. To Susan- have you tried Soynut butter or Sun butter (from sunflower seeds)? My boys eat Soynut butter, they were big PB&J fans. We haven't tried Sun butter yet, but the allergist says it's much moister and smoother than soynut butter - which is not bad. To Debbie in Ga- It's got to be scary as they get older. My daughter at 3 is so sweet and so smart about her allergies. She's very aware of what is "poisonous" to her. I pray your son can keep himself safe and maybe help educate the people that surround him in his social life to make smart choices around him.
Virginia
Susan
To Violet in Virgina
Thanks, Violet(pretty name) for the advice about the soy butter, I'll have to look that up. He is such a bugger with foods it is terrible. A nightmare to cook for, really. We did try soy milk a long time ago which he detested, so I hope the soy butter still tastes peanutty. He had major constipation issues when he was younger, was on Miralax daily, because of his diet, and so I did try the soy milk to try and get some nutrition in him! He wouldn't even eat that Pediacare stuff, I forget the name, but it is for kids who don't eat right. I tried nutrition shakes, they even make them for kids, but he hated them all... I'll try anything, so the soy butter is worth a shot. Where would you find that? A specialty, or nutrition store? Good luck with your daughter and her allergies. Poor kid, so not fair. My son, the picky eater, has a boy in his class that is allergic to eggs, and wheat I think. He was always very smart as well as to what he can and cannot have. Even reading the ingredients in first grade. They do learn quickly, don't they? Thanks again.
Pennsylvania
Chrissie
Susan
To Susan in PA. You can find soy nut butter in just about every supermarket now. Giant,Whole Foods,Genuardi's,Trader Joe's. I am the mother of a son with a severe allergy to peanut's, airborne,touching it and ingesting it. We as parents of these highly allergic children need to realize that parents with children who don't have this life threatning allergy don't care, their children do but not them. Is it detrimental that non allergic children need to eat peanut butter? No! Our children have options.So wake up people and stop being so selfish. Let's get our schools peanut free!
Pennsylvania
Susan
Chrissie
Thanks for the info about the location of soy. Can I just give some advice? You won't get anywhere insulting parents of non allergy children. You are totally stereotyping everyone as a whole. That's ignorant to the parents who understand. Yes, believe it or not, there can be nice parents of "non allergic" children. You just said that parents of allergy free kids don't care. In otherwords, you're calling everyone else jerks. Sometimes fear and frustration make us angry. I get that too. And yes, I'm sure there ARE jerks out there worried about their "rights" getting taken away or something like that. Unfortunately a peanut free school does pose a problem for me. If you did read my previous post, that is pretty much the only thing my child will eat. He will eat other options they offer, grilled cheese,pizza, and french toast stix, but they only offer them 7 days out of an entire month. The rest he eats pb&j. I cannot tell you what I have gone through trying to get my son to eat other foods. I can just hear you saying it must be my fault or I cater to him...Unfortunately you wouldn't understand unless you walked in my shoes. It is no walk on the beach let me tell you. I would love it if he ate other foods offered at the school. He does not eat meat or vegetables,noodles, and fruit, only in applesauce. If he did not have a pb&j he would just eat bread(maybe), and probably get sick of that and not eat, OR just pretzels. Would you want your child not to eat lunch at school? To me, it isn't as if we're being insensitive, or inconvenienced. It's a real issue for our son. He IS that picky and has a real aversion to foods. It's awful. We were advised NOT to force foods on him, not that I could anyway. Fighting over meals and creating trauma over food will cause greater problems in the future. Just think about my situation. What would you do in my shoes? We may be looking at having to transfer schools. I have to take him away from his close friends. It's a small school. We pay tuition and for him to go hungry and not pay attention in class is a waste of money. It would break my heart to know he's hungry every day. Don't forget I love him too. I mean the other options would be that I have to run food to him at lunch that I make at home, or have the school make something special just for him everyday. Because if I'm working, I won't be able to run to the school with food for him. Ugh.
Pennsylvania
Violet
to Susan
As a PA mom- I felt Chrissie was a little harsh about stereotyping. I, however, am just beginning my battle with schools, etc. I felt that you were just asking for suggestions - what do WE do?. My two sons LOVE pb&j and gave it up at 5 and 8. They are wonderful children, very protective. FYI soynut butter is not as tasty as PB. Don't put it on too thick. If you can find Sun butter the allergist says it more resembles the texture (moistness/creaminess) of PB. It is hard to be creative with kids school lunches. Cafeteria food is NOT something my boys will eat. I think I catered too much too. Oh well. :) I had a conversation today with the big boss. Her son's private school is nut free. She was not very understanding until I explained my daughter's situation - it isn't ingestion. She has never EATEN nut products - and hopefully never will. She advised instead of going to the public school look for a private school, that they may be more willing to accomodate our special needs.
Virginia
Tammy
Peanuts
As a mother of a child with a severe peanut allergy, I believe that no peanut products should be allowed in the schools. I do not believe that sacrificing peanut products can in any way be balanced against the risk to even one life that peanuts/peanuts butter/ peanut oil/etc. may present. This is particularly so given the failure of schools to provide general education on the potential severity of food allergies and the associated reactions.
New York, NY
Chrissie
Susan
I didn't want to come off so harsh but I guess we as a whole need to understand each others problems and maybe try to deal with them together. Like we always say Education is the key but everyone needs to be on the same page. Sorry if I insulted anyone.
Pennsylvania
DIANE
WHAT NEXT?
THIS IS WHAT DRIVES ME CRAZY ABOUT LIBERALS....HAVE TO CHANGE THE WHOLE WORLD FOR ONE PERSON. THERE ARE PLENTY OF PRIVATE SCHOOLS THAT CAN AND SHOULD ACCOMODATE "SPECIAL" NEEDS AND YOU, AS A PARENT SHOULD SEE THAT IF YOU CHILD'S LIFE IS IN DANGER -- WELL, IT SHOULD BE OBVIOUSLY A "SPECIAL NEED"....GET OUT OF THE MAINSTREAM, YOU ARE HOLDING UP PROGRESS WITH YOUR DEMANDS. WE HAVE ONE KID IN A SCHOOL OF 500 WITH AN ALLERGY, AND, ALTHOUGH I AGREE IT IS SEVERE -- THE PARENTS SHOULD RECOGNIZE THIS AND NOT PUT THE FATE OF THEIR CHILD'S HANDS INTO THE SCHOOL TO MAKE SURE EVERYONE COMPLIES -- LUDICRIS!!!
DALLAS
Nellie
Someone that is Sane
Diane is right -- time to put your "special need" child where they belong -- in a safe environment that can accomodate. If it were me, I wouldn't trust a room full of kids to be able to accomidate this. Hey, guess what, I am alergic to eggs, but the school would have to ban almost everything you have ever eaten in your life -- no, I probably won't die on the spot, but I can get pretty sick. I would never dream of asking everyone at the table to order something else just for me....PC is the worst invention this centure.
Washington
Burt
Nellie and Diane
You know Nellie and Diane, I knew someone like you who thought so selfishly. Boy, did his viewpoint change after he found out his son was allergic to peanuts, then almost died at school at the carelessness of an unsupervised child who thought it was funny to stick a peanut butter sandwich in the face of the allergic child. My friend used to think that the whole school should not suffer at the hands of one child, but now he knows better. Out of curiosity, do you have children with the allergy?
Oklahoma
Peter
Nellie
If you are basing your thoughts alone on egg allergies compared to peanut allergies, no wonder why your post makes absolutely no sense. I can't be too sensitive to your allergy after the ignorant comment you wrote.
Maine
Salley
To Diane
Diane-I am a conservative and I don't appreciate the negative and insensitive comments you wrote. Are you or any children in your home allergic to nut products? I am curious to know. I don't want to change the whole world, just make it safe for all children. What's next, we should let children in school with chicken pox as long as they don't sit next to anyone, no other children will catch it?
Michigan
Robin
PEANUT FREE!
I am a student at a small South Dakota High School, and I have a severe Peanut Allergy. To me, peanut free is suggesting a 100% safe zone in which there would be no trace of peanuts, or peanut products found. I know from experience that it is possible to have a reaction from the smell of certain peanut product, the worst for me being peanut butter. Therefore, I think it is only SAFE and FAIR to keep certain areas, ESPECIALLY SCHOOLS, COMPLETELY PEANUT FREE!
South Dakota
Bo
Go to a Special School
All of this is a fiegned approach that you are concerned about the health of your child. If you were really concerned you would send your child to a school that can accomidate his special need. It's stupid to make everyone adjust their lives b/c you could get sick.....sorry this happened to you, but get out of the main stream. Obviously we have established that it isn't safe for you no matter how many percautions are taken. The Chicken Pox analagy has to be the stupidest....Chicken Pox caused an epedimic, thousands and thousands of children died; We are talkig about 200 kids in an entire year. Yeah, it happened at school, so maybe they shouldn't be at school. I hardly think one kid in 5000 is going to be any kind of an epedimic. Who really is the selfish one? Live in a bubble, then you will be safe --- Does anyone realize that there are literally hundred of products out there that have a trace amount of peanuts? Yep, that's right, little johnny isn't safe anywhere. Here is another one for you. I don't have an allergy nor do my kids, but if they did I would never allow the safety of a shool and other children be the monitor. This is not the public's problem. I like the comment about having to eat peanuts at home. You are making it like it is a public disease and it's not. Hey, guess what? This weekend more people will die of cancer than died in 911. Now that is a cause it get behind. How about contacting all the food producers and force them to leave out chemicals and additives that are known to cause cancer. You consume vast amounts of these products on a daily basis. Get out of your selfish rut and take a look around. Everyone is sick of your chirping. Take responsibility for your self and stop making everyone else responsible for it -- good God!!!
Texas
ANYONE
Oh, Come on!!!
I have a kid that loves Peanut Butter. We tried the Soy products and wasted about $50 to figure out that he both hated it and it caused severe constipation. Poor kid was in the bathroom half the school day trying to pass his stools. That was a nice waste of his day. I spend hours now in the grocery story trying to find something he will eat and something safe for school. A huge time suck! It is completely ridiculous for us to take on the complexities of someone else's health and children. Why don't these parents take their "spcial" children to a place where they will be safe? Have you noticed the peanut free alternatives? All of them high in cholesteral, high in fat, high in refined sugar, flour, etc. Cheese sandwiches, chicken nugets, pizza -- hello obesity!! I'll bet these poor children that have nut alergies stay unhealthy and unfit b/c they can't choose healthy snacks. The ones that aren't peanut free are bad for you. Everyone knows that chips cooked in peanut oil are better for you than the ones cooked in other ways. Also, most healthy snacks that I've found have trace amounts of nuts in them. My son loves these type of snacks b/c they are high in protien and good for him. You can't give a boy that is growing snacks that don't pack a protien punch. They wind up underweight skinny and unproductive for the rest of the day. Their blood sugars drop dramatically when given a non-protien snack. Even if you give them dairy snacks like cheese (ooops, forgot, we have dairy allergy children too. Oh yeah, they haven't put these silly demands on us yet, so we are cool, we can send dairy thanks God) except, oops, now my child is in danger of developing heart disease. Why can't everyone just take responsibility for themselves. This is not a sensitivity or a PC issue. We are a society that wants everyone else to be responsible for everything that goes wrong with us and there is a lawsuit around every corner. I think the lawyers would have a heyday with a school that said it was peanut free and a parent inadvertantly sent something with peanuts and the one chance in 20,000 kids happened to get ahold of it and got sick. Or better yet, a parent sued a school b/c it is prohibits their child from getting the nutrition is needs.
All over America
Deborah
Yes, It's your responsibility!!
A recent study showed that in spite of best efforts at avoidance, children are likely to have an accidental ingestion of the food to which they are allergic. Other studies have shown that allergic reactions can occur from skin contact as well as ingestion and inhalation and those reactions commonly occur outside the cafeteria. It would, therefore, be prudent for school staff to review lesson plans and other potential sources of allergic reactions. A written allergy emergency action plan, signed by the child's physician, should be in place for all at-risk students to ensure quick treatment of an allergic reaction. Following are some points to consider and some examples of situations that caused allergic reactions. Share the Information Reactions can occur in the classroom as well as the cafeteria and on the playground. Be sure that teachers and food service staff can recognize the children at risk for having an allergic reaction and know what they should do if a reaction occurs. With the parents' permission, a copy of the treatment plan and a photo of the child should be provided to these key staff members. As the following story shows, food service staff can work in partnership with the school nurse to avoid potential risks. "Our son Ethan, is allergic to peanuts and is now a 7th grader. We are delighted with the responsibility he has shown, but each new year brings more independence and more food allergy situations. "Our school system now provides snacks before state tests, to boost student scores. The school nurse advised us that some of the snacks would contain peanuts or peanut butter. She met with the principal to develop a plan to feed the students and keep Ethan safe. They coordinated with the food service manager so another school would swap our peanut snacks with their non-peanut snacks. I would like to thank the school nurse for alerting us to this situation and our principal for developing a plan that did not embarrass or isolate my son." Keep Plans Individualized Some children have severe allergic reactions to the smallest amount of the allergen, others have only minor skin irritations. Work with the parents to customize the health care plan for each student. One parent wrote, "Because a student in our community died of a reaction, the school is developing stringent new policies regarding food-allergic students. Our son has been at this school for the past two years and has eaten with his class safely. The nurse is requiring him to sit at a peanut-free table at lunch and he has been separated from his friends. I have taught him how to manage his allergies and want him to live in the 'real world.'" Letters Home Some schools send letters home to the parents of classmates of food-allergic students requesting that they avoid sending in peanut- or nut-containing products. In an attempt to help parents, several schools provide lists of "safe" snacks. This can be risky business. Ingredients can change without warning. If you don't update your list or if the parent doesn't replace the outdated list, the allergic student can be put at risk for an allergic reaction. Additionally, some letters are very broad and ask parents to "please check all labels for hidden ingredients." This puts an added burden on other parents and sometimes causes resentment. Additionally, if they don't take the time to learn the synonyms for foods such as "milk" or "peanuts," they won't know how to recognize "hidden ingredients." In one school in Connecticut, a young peanut-allergic boy spent several days in the Intensive Care Unit after eating a cupcake at a class celebration that he thought would be safe. It turns out the mother who baked the goodies did not carefully read the ingredient labels. The safest policy is to have the allergic student eat only the snacks and goodies that are brought in from home. In some cases, the student's parents prefer to be responsible for purchasing snacks for the entire class, thereby ensuring the safety of all foods. If the student is participating in the lunch program, ask the parents to read the ingredient labels to determine which foods are "safe." Field Trips More and more museums are using creative supplies for their hands-on exhibits. Be sure to call ahead and inquire about such policies. Rethink field trips to avoid the following situation. "As the class walked into the museum, there were signs prominently posted that there were crushed walnut shells in the fossil dig exhibit. The walnut-allergic student stayed with the chaperone while the other children played in the exhibit. However, within minutes her eyes started itching, tearing, and swelling, and she also started coughing. On the way home in the van with the students who had been playing in the walnut shells, her eyes swelled shut and she began wheezing." Lunch Time More and more schools are designating certain tables in the cafeteria as milk-free or peanut-free tables. The allergic students enjoy sitting with their friends who have "safe" lunches. To make this process easier, one teacher hung a magnetic board with a line drawn down the middle. One side for peanut lunches, the other for non-peanut lunches. Magnets with the children's names were stuck to the board. As students arrived, they moved their magnet to the appropriate side. When only one child has lunch with peanuts in it, the class is divided in half anyway, so no one feels isolated. Cleaning Methods Unfortunately, no scientific studies have been done to evaluate cleaning practices or methods in the removal of food proteins. In our experience, warm soapy water appears to be an excellent method of safely cleaning cafeteria tables, desks, utensils, etc., just as this method is successful when used in homes where the allergenic food is served. It seems that removal of the food from the surface should be the main goal, and any "wet" cleaner together with a little "elbow grease" in wiping, should suffice. "Waterless" cleaners or "instant hand sanitizers" that do not include a "wet-wash/wipe" step would not be adequate. A number of schools use a chlorine solution; the superiority of this method has not been studied in this setting. However, we have not received any reports of reactions after this method of cleaning was used. The more important point is to use a fresh cloth or paper towels when cleaning the allergic child's table to avoid cross contact from a sponge or cloth that was used to clean allergen-containing tabletops. Finally, the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology position paper, "Anaphylaxis in Schools and Other Childcare Settings," states, "Hand washing after food handling should be encouraged in day care and preschool settings, as well as in lower schools." Once again, soap and warm water should be sufficient.
DALLAS
alone
wish I had kept it to myself
I'm a student with a peanut allergy and I wish I had just kept it to myself. My parents lobbied to get the school (public) to go peanut free and that's were the trouble began. I was called pee pee head, peanut brain, etc. I really wish we never said anything. They removed all the snacks from the cafeteria. This after all the students lobbied the prior year to get healthy snacks put into the vending machines. Things like power bars, peanut butter and crackers, etc. Families threatend to sue the school. It was awful. One family has a daughter with a strawberry allergy and is so alergic that even something that is artificilly flavord can cause her to have a reaction. They said that if we are banning peanuts, we should also ban strawberry products, razberry, etc. I eventually changed schools b/c the preasure was so over the top. Everyone blammed me for ruinning the baseball games, dances (no snacks allowed and we used to have cake), etc. Now I know that I need to take care of myself. B/c the real lesson learned is that, no place is a safe zone for a kid with an allergy and to make it a safe zone only multiplies your chances to let your guard down and that's when it happens. Only my close friends and their families know at my new school and I have to say that I am much happier not putting my illness onto anyone's else's shoulders. Odly, the vegans were the most violent. They derive most of their nutrition from nuts and I was taking that away from them. They don't eat any meat -- red, white, fish, dairy, eggs -- so It was a real handicap for them. Plus, there actually were more vegans in the school than kids with allergies, so it was a loosing battle. The lawsuits were started by the families that felt their rights and the rights of the majority were taken away. You can not forbid someone to eat a food that is a healthy part of their diet. I cringe everytime I think about it now b/c I never could concentrate on my studies b/c the kids were so mad at me. The bottom line is, the ones with the allergies should burden the responsibility, not the public.
texas
Violet
yes it IS our responsibility
People get so defensive and argumentative. Just relax, this is a battle that may not be won. If schools will work with nut(or whatever) allergy families, it's wonderful for our kids. Remember some of us have other children with no allergies too. It IS a challenge to find safe things that your children will eat. If my personal battle for my "special needs" peanut, etc. allergic child can not be won with public or private school, I would, by ALL means, home school her to keep her safe. Like I said, ingestion isn't our issue, it is a concern. My daughter is 3 and very aware of "poison" - doesn't she deserve the experience of a classroom setting with friends? Five meals a week without pb&j really won't kill anyone, my sons are living proof. She was diagnosed 2 years ago. We manage. No one is saying ALL schools have to be peanut free. But a lot of public schools receive funding for "special needs" children - to most of us this means physically or mentally handicapped, our allergic children fall under that, too. Not all schools participate in this program. Even the ones that do may not understand the reality of our situations. All allergies are different. Go out to eat and explain your child's allergies. The owners and chefs take it VERY seriously. I don't know what will come of my "battle". But I have to try for my daughter. As she gets a little older and can knowingly avoid foods or people eating them, maybe it's different. It's still kind of new to me.
Virginia
DeAnna
Ban?
Who would be so foolish as to expect parents of children that are not allergic to peanuts to be ABLE to prevent penuts being sent to a public school. Even those of us with food allergies can mearly attempt to avoid to affending food. You shouldn't feel that your child with a penut allergy is safe at school just becuase the school banned peanuts. Peanut free zones and personal accountability on behalf of the child and the parent are the best defense. Let the other kids eat their PB&J if they wish, what about the health nut mom who sautes her childs vegie burger in peanut oil?
Texas
jen
I AGREE, BUT IS IT POSSIBLE
PEANUT FREE MEANS JUST WHAT IT SAYS. EVERYONE HAD THEIR OWN OPINION AND EVERONE HAS THE RIGHT TO STATE IT, BUT HERE IS SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT, EVERY CHILD HAS A SPEACIAL NEED ONE WAY OR OTHER. HAVING A CHILD WITH NUT ALLERGIES IS NOT EASY FOR ANYONE. YOUR WORLD GET TURNED AROUND AND THERE IS NOTHING YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT OR STOP IT. THE ONLY THING YOU CAN DO IS EDUCATE THE CHILD WITH THE ALLERGIES AND HOPE TO EDUCATE THOSE AROUND THEM. THERE IS NO SUCH THING A A PEANUT FREE WORLD, BUT WHY NOT GIVE THE CHANCE FOR A PEANUT FREE LUNCHROOM OR SCHOOL SO THAT THOSE WITH ALLERGIES MIGHT BE ABLE TO LIVE A HALF-NORMAL CHILDHOOD SCHOOL YEAR. IS IT FAIR TO JUDGE THE CHILDREN AND THEIR PARENTS FOR WANTING THE BEST FOR THEIR CHILD. AND JUST BECAUSE THERE ARE SIGN OR SOMEONE TELLS YOU THAT THIS IS A PEANUT FREE ZONE, YOU NEVER LET YOUR GRAUD DOWN. BECAUSE THERE IS ALWAYS THAT ONE, THAT WILL BREAK THE RULES.
CALIFORINA
Dr. D
I work in a school
Okay, first of all, let's all remember children visit this valuable web site, so let's be careful how we phrase things. I am a principal in an elementary school. I was against a peanut free school until last year. I designated peanut free tables. I found out the hard way, that may have not been the answer. I had a first grader go into anaphylactic shock. The nurse stated the only way this happened was due to the peanut dust being airborne. No child was near him with any peanut products. I first hand witnessed this young trying his best just to breathe. In all my years in education, this was my scariest moment. This year, we are implementing a new system. We are lucky enough that our lunchroom has a middle dividing door. At lunch, we are going to close this door. One side will be peanut free, the other, the students can eat whatever they want. I used to think how silly it was to create a peanut free school, now I think differently. To all of you who have been against a peanut free environment, you may change your tone after you witness a child going through an anaphylactic reaction. As I said, I learned the hard way. I was ignorant in my thinking, and I am so thankful the child is okay. The parents of the child have been so cooperative and supportive. They did not blame the school, although they did request a peanut free lunchroom in a non pushy manner. They are happy with the new lunchroom procedure. Let's all do what is good for all the children. We need to make the schools safe for all children no matter what their issues. It has to be a team effort where we all help each other. Sorry for going on to long, but I am disgusted by some of the comments here.
California
John
SELFISH
I am shocked at all the selfish people here. So what, your child may not be able to eat peanut butter at school. No peanut products vs. a child dying? Wow, I am shocked. I wonder if your tone would change is the shoe was on the other foot?
UK
Shirley
What's Next - Milk Free?
I know of several children who suffer anaphalaxis if exposed to the smallest amount of milk product. So what's next peanut-free, milk-free, whey-free, cheese-free? The best defense is education for those that have severe allergies. My friends children have known since an early age to avoid any food items not provided by their parents and how to use a epipen. Let's bring back peanuts as an excellent source of protein to schools.
British Columbia
Stands with fist
What about our rights?
Selfish? I'll explain selfish. It's the hords of time I now take out of my day b/c you have burdened our entire world with your issue. Definition of selfish is to expect the entire school to look out for just you and forget about the needs of all those around. We are vegans and don't eat any type of meat. Dairy is also out, so where are we supposed to get our protien? Also, no soy product tasts that great and leaves us with NUTS -- wonderful source of nutrition and now we can't eat it. And for all of you that keep saying it's just one meal a day -- it's not. It is morning snack, lunch, and an afternoon snack. Nuts are one of nature's finest products. Containing more protien oz of oz than meat. It is also a complete source of protien. And let's not forget that I'm on a limited budget and I can get 25 servings from a $2.50 jar of peanut butter; but only 4 servings from a $6.00 bag of turkey product and or turkey from the deli (which we don't eat). Not to mention the spoilage issue with the accompaning products that go with this type of food, mayo, lettuce, tomatoe, mustard, etc. A good ole pb&j is a great meal in many regards!! Take your child were they will be safe. Homeschool them or have them attend a school that divides the lunchroom in half. PEANUT FREE SCHOOLS HAVE TAKEN AWAY OUR FREEDOM TO EAT WHAT WE NEED/WANT. A peanut free zone is a much wiser solution. There will be lawsuits from this from both sides. I can hear the lawyer's jingling their piggy banks now.
Texas
Jennifer
My son shouldn't be hidden behind closed doors!
Those with severe food allergies are covered under the Americans with disabilities act! I am trying to curb my anger at this point when I read some of these posts that say my child should be isolated from the rest of society. I keep having thoughts of people in power who wanted a "better race". My son has no known learning disabilities nor does he have a physical disabilty that can be seen by the naked eye such as crutches or a wheelchair. So why should he have to be enrolled in a special school that is designed to help those kids, not designed to deal with food allergies. I wish there was a school in our district that dealt with food allergies, but there isn't at this time. We are still considering home schooling but he is a social child - why should he be punished? It's hard enough dealing with food allergies - he will always be different from most people. Things like Trick or Treating or going to places without bringing his own food will probably never be an option for him. He needs to learn how to navigate in a world that has a lot of people against him. Not all people will have an issue, but as we see on this board alone, many will. I am asking for two things that might seem insane to people who have never seen their child at death's door - a nut free table at lunch and a nut free classroom. I'm willing to work with you even on the nut free classroom if you feel you cannot abide and have to have "that teacher," I am willing to concede and do my best to work by switching teachers (provided I can get a teacher that understands his allergies and is willing to have training in case his life is ever in jeopardy). You see it's not just parents, even some teachers can be unhelpful and that is their perogative. In turn my son will only eat food that is provided by me, learn to clean his own areas (desks, lunch tables and door handles) with special wipes to eliminate risk and even possibly wearing special gloves on the playground. I don't want to inconvenience anyone, I just want to keep my child safe. I don't think a day will go by when I won't dread hearing my phone ring when my son isn't with me. I just ask that you remember that!
Kennesaw, GA
Jennifer
Sunbutter vs. Soybutter
Before we had a peanut allergic son, my husband and I were avid peanut butter eaters. (See it's even hard on parents who have a peanut allergic child!) Anyway, he has had both soybutter and sunbutter - he said Sunbutter wins hands down for being the closest to a peanut butter consistency and taste. They also sell a crunchy version if you prefer.
Kennesaw, GA
Joel
Selfish
Yes, I agree with some here, that many are selfish here. Please don't compare the peanut allergy to other allergies. Remember, the peanut allergy can be transmitted if airborne. That is why it is different. Milk allergies are serious as well, and I also support any restrictions that would help the milk allergic child. Please don't come down on the peanut allergic child. They deserve to be in a safe environment. As the principal said earlier, he had a child go into shock due to peanut dust that was airborne. Try to be more sensitive here.
Georgia
Jennifer
Avoiding peanuts/tree nuts while pregnant
I apologize for posting so many comments in a row, but they are each seperate points that I didn't want to get lost in one post. I ate peanut butter while I was pregnant and breastfeeding - a lot of it. My ob gave me the go ahead because I couldn't tolerate other protein sources. I have friends who did the same, my parents and others did the same - yet none of them have children with peanut allergies. There are other parents of peanut allergic children that didn't have peanuts while pregnant. I did read that soy formula can increase the chances of peanut allergies. I started doing research about how foods have been genetically modified, like soy. As the parent of a child who is also allergic to soy, I know that it is in just about everything! The fact is, peanut allergies are on the rise. I mean, how many kids did you know growing up that had peanut allergies? I knew none, yet through various boards, I know there are a lot of people out there that have them now. I have my suspicions that soy is a culprit, but there is little definitive research out there to confirm my suspicions. So just by eliminating peanut products from a pregnant of breastfeeding woman's diet or waiting until a child is older to give them peanut butter won't necessarily guarantee that the child won't have peanut or nut allergies. Right now it's just guessing. I guess I just don't want anyone to look at the mother of a nut allergic child and say "You did this to them!"
Kennesaw, GA
Len Saunders
Language
Good day everyone. As the moderator of this forum, I just wanted to let you know I had to delete two messages posted here today due to improper language. Please remember, this web page was designed for both parent and child. The purpose of this forum is to educate visitors with your opinions, while not giving a definitive solution to the topic at hand. I feel it is important for both sides of the issue to understand the valuable concerns of others. My hopes that this forum will bring sides closer together, and not further apart. I truly appreciate all the contributions thus far, and hope you all continue to express your opinions in a respectful manner. If there is anything else you would like on this web site, please shoot me an email. I am in the process of adding new features here soon. Thanks. Len Saunders
New Jersey
Richard
Len Saunders
Len, Thank you for your voluntary service to this board as mediator!! Thank you also for, “I just wanted to let you know I had to delete two messages posted here today.. all due to improper language!!!” I’m sure everyone appreciates your integrity and that you have informed us about the delete postings. I do, however, have on question. Did you delete the postings based on the content or the message? In other words, did you delete the postings because the language contained four letter words, or because of their interpretation? “My hopes that this forum will bring sides closer together, and not further apart. I truly appreciate all the contributions thus far, and hope you all continue to express your opinions in a respectful manner.” If you censored due to profanity, I’m behind you 100%. If you censored due to conservative vs. liberal views, well let’s just say I think you were wrong. I’m positive that you judgment is much better than you grammar. I know, I can be a sarcastic SOB. Thank you again Richard
Pennsylvania
Len
Language
LOL....Richard, you got me to laugh after a lousy day. Yes, it was due to 4 letter words, actually one was a 5 letter word, referring to a female dog! I have never deleted a post due to an opinion. That would be wrong and defeat the purpose of this section. I have lost some posts due to an upgrade I did to the script used in this forum a while back. I was unable to retrieve them. I always enjoy your posts, so keep them coming. I think many have learned important material from you, even if you think it was sacastic!
New Jersey
Jewel
Thanks Len
Len, great points, and thank you for creating this web site. All the teachers at my son's school use it with their classes. They love the cute peanut games on the site.
Nevada
Max
Richard
Yes Richard, you are a sacastic SOB.....Just kidding. What was wrong with Len's grammar? BTW, I did see one of the posts before it was deleted. Was not kind. I visit this site frequently, although this is my first post. Len, if you need any help with the site (articles, photos), let me know. Sent you an email.
Uk
Len
Thank you Max
Thanks Max. I did get your email. Right now, I have everything under control, but will contact you if I need assistance. I run 8 different web sites, and 10 different forums, so yes, my grammar / spelling may be bad at times because I am always rushing along. Thanks again Max.
New Jersey
Joan Bradley
Oh Richard
Richard, how are the posts here conservative vs. liberal views? That is nonsense. The views here are just beliefs on making the environment safe and enjoyable for all children. There are no politics here!
W. Virginia
Richard
Len, Thank you!!
Len, Thank you for your reply!!!! I am thrilled to hear that you deleted the messages due to vulgarity and not because of content. If you and your family are ever in Northeastern PA, please let me know. My wife, son, and I would love to meet you and your family! As for the conservative vs. liberal comment, that is my pea brained view of the world. There is currently a great divide within this country, the democrats and the republicans. My belief is that this divide will continue to grow until it eclipses the great divide of the Civil War, North vs. South. This pea brained narrow minded view causes me to equate any significant difference in social issue opinion, i.e. peanut allergy, as a partisan divide. If you look at the line that separates opinions on any topic of significance, you will find a very partisan separation of opinions. Diversity in opinions; that is what makes this county great! I am very thankful that I live in a country that allows freedom of speech. “I run 8 different web sites, and 10 different forums.” Len, thank you for all that you do, and I apologize for my grammar comment. Richard
Pennsylvania
Len
PA
Richard, no need to apologize. I was in PA twice over the last 2 weeks, probably in your neck of the woods. Don't know when I will be back, but thank you for offer. Going to the liberal vs. conservative comment, is really is not pea brained. Unfortunately, the world has changed over the last decade, and you are entitled to express yourself. It is one's own form of verbal self defense. All the best.
New Jersey
Jessica
Attention Jennifer
Jennifer, I agree with you. Peanut Butter eating while pregnant did not cause this. And, the reason you did not hear about the peanut allergy many years ago was probably due to children just dying after exposure to it, and doctors not realizing what caused it.
Portland, Maine USA
Richard
Alone in Dallas
Thank you, thank you, thank you!! Thank you for taking the time to post how you feel. As parents, we tend to believe that we know best. This belief system tends to cloud reality. “When I was 10 years old I had all the answers. When I was 20 years old, they changed all of the questions.” How quickly we forget what it was like, "Back in the day."
Pennsylvania
Jonas
Peanut Free
My son will be attending kindergarten this fall. After reading this forum, I have learned a lot, from all sides. What I plan now, is to form a committee with other parents and the principal to see what will work best in our lunchroom. I like what the principal (Dr. D) stated earlier. Dividing the lunchroom in half sounds good. I will post back here how it works out. My son will still be able to sit with friends who do not have any peanut products for lunch that day. Our new teacher already said she has no problem checking the lunches every morning to see what lunches are safe. Then, my son can sit with his friends that day (if they had no peanut products) if he'd like. The teacher has promised me he will never feel isolated, and that's good enough for me.
Texas
Violet
to the vegan parent
I respect your decision to be a vegan. My sister was a strict vegetarian when I was growing up - though she did eat cheese and milk. So yes, there's a difference. I understand nuts are a good source of protein. I personally miss peanut butter- but I'd miss my daughter more. Be creative. There are many sources of protein without being an animal or nut product. It's a challenge and yes more costly, I think most people are on a budget and struggle. But I pack my 8 year old non allergic son soynut butter and jelly. It's tolerable 5 meals/week. And snacks- can you eat popcorn or pretzels? I'm not being sarcastic, I promise. This is a very serious concern for parents of a peanut allergic child. I know it's a pain for the other parents. My 6th grader came home yesterday stating that in Consumer Sciences (home ec) they'll be making peanut butter chocolate chip cookies. He stated that his sister has an allergy, would he get it on him. She explained they wear large aprons. OK peanut allergic parents, what would you do? I called and explained the airborne and contact issues with my daughter and if my son stepped on the ingredients or the cookies it would then contaminate my home. She said they could just make chocolate chip then. What's common sense to "us" isn't to everyone else. (I think I'm driving my own family and friends crazy with my peanut safety). And Jennifer- I think- thanks for the sunbutter vote - I still have to try to find it locally or maybe order it from the manufacturer. :)
Virginia
Just say no to nuts
lunchroom
My child was in the lunchroom and everyone who bought lunch that day had a little cup of peanutbutter to dip veggies in. He didn't touch it, they told me he sat away from it. He broke out in hives all over which triggered his exzema and asthma. Peanut allergies can be airborne too.
PA
Jennifer
Violet - Sunbutter
Our local grocery stores - Publix and Kroger carry Sunbutter. I know many healthfood stores carry it as well, such as Whole Foods and Trader Joes. If you don't have one of those in your area or if you do, and they don't have it in, ask if they can get some for you. Our local stores have been great about ordering products for us (son has multiple food allergies as well as PA) - just ask at customer service if they can do the same for you. The only reason you don't have my vote on it - it is made with soy which I was avoiding due to breastfeeding my new son. We are trying to avoid same allergens my oldest son has.
Kennesaw, GA
Bo
Had it Up to Here!!
So, I was willing to work around the PA kids problems, but now it turns out that he also has egg issues. So now that I finally got my son to eat a turkey sandwich for lunch (even though he misses PB), I can no longer put MAYO ON HIS BREAD. This is ridiculous!!! I'm so irritated by this family that I could scream. They put a list of over 100 items,many of which we love and eat and are GOOD FOR YOU; that we can not allow into my son's lunchbox. I would LOVE TO SUE THE SCHOOL FOR ENCROACHMENT OF OUR RIGHTS. Parents, your child will likely outgrown the PB allergy. Can't you keep them home for sometime until they can take care of themselves and the allergy goes away? Also, there are tons of doctors research happening right now that is aiding in children dealing with this issue and actually helping them get over it. I don't believe these children are best served in the community at large. Being dissabled is not the same as having a problem that requires 99% of normal people to change their behavior. It just doesn't. I feel for these parents that have this problem, but I have to ask how serious is the problem if you are willing to "RISK IT" at school and leave it to the rest of us to look out for your child. If the shoe were on the other foot, I would keep my child at home and do everything in my power to educate him so that he does not inconvenience others with his illness. The parent with the child that has such a serious illness should be held accountable for allowing their child to be exposed; instead of holding us accountable for their life. This is a slippery slope and while you think you are doing the right thing, there are many that are resenting the whole thing. I yes, I also think that your demands are selfish. There are not that many kids out there with this issue, so there are no special schools for them. Why do people insist on making others responsible? Why aren't they responsible? I just don't get it. Oh yes, by the way, we do have an allergy in our home, but notice that I didn't even mention it. Can it cause harm, you bet it can; and also, it is something that you have on you everyday and it would never cross your mind that someone could be allergic to it...it's called perfume and it is in EVERYTHING.
The South
Diane
Not just a sandwich
Everyone thinks that it is just the elimination of one sandwich one day a week. It really is so much more than that. Nuts are in many, many products -- I didn't even realize until I had to start making sure we didn't bring them to school. So, since all the PA parents say it's just one meal a day, perhaps they can send their child to another part of the school for just that one meal -- or would that be asking too much?
Dallas
Richard
Bo from Georgia
Thank you for your post! Under normal circumstances, the content of your post along with the fact that your name is Bo and you are from Georgia would give a pea brained sarcastic Yankee SOB like me hours of enjoyment. In fact, I could have written for hours before even mentioning the Dukes of Hazard, Foxfire, Return to Macon County, or the hit song, I’m My on Grandpa. Instead, all I want to say is this; be careful what you wish for, one day your wish may come true. To show that there are no hard feelings, I’d like to invite you to an annual picnic my family throws every year. Next year, it will be on May 28, 2007. Hey Diane, you are also invited to my picnic.
Pennsylvania
Peter
Outgrow
Just for the records Bo, a child has an 18% chance to outgrow this allergy. Please get your facts straight, and do not crucify an entire population of peanut allergies to your misfortunes. You have conducted yourself in a manner which is very selfish. I am a teacher in a school, and we try to take care of ALL children's needs. One day, you may need the school to support you or your children's needs. I hope you get better support than you gave here!
North Carolina
Francis Merlotta
Wow.....
Well said Peter. Bo definately was unfair here. I have a friend with this allergy. I have seen him go into shock after kissing his girlfriend who had a peanut product before they got together one night. I will never forget the look on his face when he could not breathe. Bo, we all need to work together. Your approach will not change anything.
Penn
mike
the real truth
joey,they have not had a problme yet.where is writen that a kid must have a peanutbutter sandwich or he`ll be robbed of some magical expierience.how about teaching them to be tolerant of other peoples needs,and that its not just about what they want.its about sacrifice sometimes.i dont think having a ham and cheese will send them into thearapy.i`ll tell you what would you be ok with my child bringing poison to school?no you would not.thats what its like for my child everyday.she has to run the gaunlet,so others con eat a P-N-J.its not right.
afghanistan
mike
more truth
hey stands with fist,and all you other vegans out there.are some of you vegans because you dont want to harm the poor little animals.and if so than why dont you have a problem risking a persons life.you are vegans by choice.my daughter never had a choice.just like you have the right to be a tree hugger my child has the right to attend school and be safe.
afghanistan
mike
perfect people
hey deborah.im sorry my kids not perfact.your kids not gonna have a heart problem cause he missed a couple a peanuts at lunch.and i take offence to you saying that we dont want to be responsible for our children who do you think you are.we take every step to insure our childrens safe education,and meet resistance from untolerant poeple just like YOU.school is not even about food its about GETTING A GOOD EDUCATION.i think your child can wait a couple of extra hours till schools out to have a healthy snack.
afghanistan
Violet
nut free schools
Suppose public schools (such as in our area, where we have SO many elementary schools and I know not all areas are the same) chose 1 elementary school in the county to be peanut free? I work in home health and some of our clients are sent to schools outside of their district to accomodate their special needs. That way for parents with children with airborne or contact allergies- which having them isolated at lunch time is NOT a solution - could have their child attend that school. That should cause less anger-you think? What's up with the NO MAYO? Is that child airborne allergic to egg products? I'm sure it's possible. Just for the record- because of my daughter's extreme allergies I am checking into home schooling or private schools. I DON'T trust that other people can do the right thing for her. If you don't live it everyday, you don't have to be so conscious of it.
Virginia
mike
whats next diane
diane is it so horrable to try to help these kids out.do u really half to write in CAPITALS to persecute these children?does the thought of you having to do something for a child anger you that much?have u always been this selfish or is this something you worked to perfect.god forbid you change your life one little bit to help your fellow man.whats next diane?shoud we remove handicap parking so u can have a shot at a good spot?should we remove all handicap people from society so you dont half to deal with them?i know,maybe we should just off these kids at birth so you never half to deal with them again.would that make you HAPPY.you r a horrable person you should be ashamed of yourself.
afghanistan
Wendy
DIANE
To all of you selfish people out there that are so upset about the idea that you might NOT be allowed to send peanut butter in with your child because they won't be healthy, make me sick! Do you realize that children who have a peanut allergy NEVER eat anything that has any type of peanuts in it. Which means that these children have about 1/2 of the selection of food to choose from and let me tell you they are just as healthy if not healthier than your child. So what makes me so sick is that your anger and resentment does not stem from the thought of your child not being healthy because they cannot have there peanut butter at school. It is really because you could care less that these children could die. It is a harsh fact but fact none the less. As you stated Diane, why should you have to be inconvenienced when it is only 1 out of 500 that are allergic, I tell you, these allergic children have every right to get a safe education, and should not be taked out of the mainstream as someone wrote. Remember, school is not only about education, but it is also about developing proper social skills. These kids should not be forced to be home schooled. They have the RIGHT to a safe education just like your child does. We cannot as parents of Peanut Allergic children allow our children to be bullied by these unfeeling people. They have just as many rights as eveyone else and we need to be strong and stand up for them. They are children, our children and they can't do it themselves. Remember all of you uncaring people out there, these children go through enough heartache they do not need you to add to it.
North Carolina
Wendy
Mike
Mike you got it right and I wish that more people with PA children were honest like you and said what they really felt, and not be so worried about being polite. These people attacking our children certainly are not concerned about being polite.
North Carolina
Anonymous
For Diane
Hey Diane, do you really think that we do not realize that it is not just a PB sandwich that you have to elimate. We live this everyday, try grocery shopping. And no moving our children to another part of the school won't solve the problem. Besides airborne contact, your child will come back to the classroom with pb on there hands and touch the doorknob, my childs desk, ect. and then my child could stop breathing from touching it. Is it really to much to ask for you to care just a bit and not send in the pb and all else containing it? I do it every day. For your information, my child has paid her dues, for her fist several school years, she ate in the office at school and her classroom. What a nasty person you are. Can you sleep at night?????
No location given
Wendy
vegans
Hey Stands with Fists, I guess since you are a vegan then your child has special needs and shouldn't harm my child by bringing in your peanuts. I guess you vegans with your special needs should be home schooled. Don't burden the rest of us with your special needs as you put it.
North Carolina
Wendy
Hey all of you out there who keep asking, "how far do we go"? "Whats next"? in reference to banning peanuts. Uhh let's think long and hard about this. Oh I know, as far it takes to make sure a child doesn't die. You find this to be rediculus and an infringement on your rights? I don't think so and if you do, you are telling these children that you would prefer to have the right to eat pb and let someone die, then to keep them safe. I happen to feel that it is an infringement on my child's rights, that you are allowed to bring poison to school, because that is the equivalence to peanuts to these children. Oh and Stands with Fists, YOU'VE TAKEN MY CHILD'S FREEDOMS AWAY BECAUSE YOU INSIST UPON BRINGING PB TO SCHOOL, AND IN DOING SO THESE CHILDREN CANNOT GO EVERYWHERE YOUR CHILD CAN, AND THEY HAVE TO BE FRIGHTENED. LET ME TELL YOU SOMETHING, THIS GETS WORSE WHEN THEY GET OLDER BECAUSE OF PARENTS LIKE ALL OF YOU OUT THERE. YOU TEACH YOUR CHILDREN YOUR HEINOUS WAYS AND NOW THEY BEGIN TORMENTING AND THREATENING THESE CHILDREN LIVES WITH PEANUTS WHICH WILL KILL THEM IF THEY ARE SUCCESSFULL! I DO BELEIVE THAT YOUR PARENTING NEEDS TO BE ADJUSTED!!!!!!!!!!!
North Carolina
Jennifer
Have you asked your kids if it's a problem for them?
I see lots of parents on here crying about what an inconvenience it is for them...what do your kids think? Many of the kids around us have compassion for my son - when you explain peanuts can make him very, very sick, they go out of their way to help. Maybe your kids should teach you some compassion!
Kennesaw, GA
Linda Falini
Curious
I am curious. There has been some negativity here regarding the peanut allergy. I would really like some of the negative people here to quote whether they have children with the allergy or not. I would guess most are going to say, 'not', but I just want to know. If there are some who say 'not', I am wondering why they are visiting this web site? Is it to educate themselves about the dangers, or other motives? I was always taught the grass is always greener, so I wonder how some of the negative people would change their lives if they now had a child with this terrible allergy, which can cause serious problems if it goes airborne. NOBODY should compare any other allergies to the nut allergy unless it too, can cause problems if airborne.
Oregon
mike
bo from the south
bo i have only one question for you.single wide or double wide?you are beyond ignorent,these kids have only a very small chance at out growing this,and where do you get off saying that i am not a responsible parent.im more responsible than you will ever be.you do relize that your spending your time lashing out at the innocents of the world dont you?and oh yeah the south?are you holding on to some other views we should all know about?name your state!im sure they would be proud to have someone like you there.just incase your wondering im from the south.
afghanistan
Anonymous
Everyone just settle down now.
I am still not convenienced that some of the people who have posted here believe themselves; that this is a life-threatening problem. If it really was, they would know that there is no safe zone. Also, they would not entrust anyone with the health of their child. And for crying outloud -- it's not just a sandwich, nuts are in everything. And for the person that makes the comparison that we should bring poison to school; lighten up, get back Jack, poison could kill all, peanuts are toxic to few. That said, all lives are precious, especially children's. And yes, my son who has no allergies is extremly kind and he is also very Conscientious about his classmates health. He makes sure that he doesn't have any peanut residue after his breakfast of peanut butter. Just know, that as moms we would not proliferate unkind behavior; but you should also know that all these same moms, don't have a high opinion of the PB free policy. And for all of you attacking Bo, good grief, stay on topic will ya? What does his name have anything to do with his opinion? That is just rude and also prejudiced -- double-wide? come on, let's not throw stones. The topic isn't about demographics, or socioeconomic backgrounds here, the topic is safety in our schools and how we handle such a touchy subject. Most people are too polite to say straight up what they think, so it's good to come to a website that allows freedom to speak. My advice is to take some of this frustration from both sides to heart. I know that I have. I really thought that it would be a huge inconvenience; but have come to the conclusion that once you invest the initial 20 - 45 minutes to check the foods you eat on a regular basis, you can make adjustments. The part I still don't like is that I can't rely on the good ole PB sandwich as a fallback when I can't get to the grocery store. Also, all the other stuff that goes with meat sandwiches, plus the expense. But hey, if someone could die; what is the cost? I cannot say that I would do the same as the allergy parents, but this is their choice to do as they feel appropriate. The rest of you spewing venom on the various people that are obviously frustrated, really doesn't help their ability to see it your way; some of the comments are downright cheepshots. Everyone needs to take a page out of Dale Carnegie "How to Win Friends and Influence People." Yeah, everyone -- both sides. Calling people ignorant is such an explosive comment and makes postures that you are somehow superior in your thinking; when really it is just a difference of opinion and with a little enlightenment, could go a long way. Remember, many people reading this website will discuss what it said, so what and how you respond could make or break your argument. I hope that makes sense and that everyone will stop attacking and start educating.
No location given
mike
wont settle down
hey that difference of opinion could cost my kid her life ok.i am playing for keeps here.cant you understand that.they are selfish and i wont sugar coat it for them.if they choose to be emotional cripals then i`ll call um on it.things are the way they are.things are simple theres whats right and whats wrong.to easy!
afghanistan
Joan P.
Please think.....
Hey anonymous two posts up.......You are selfish and do not care about anybody but yourself. I quote, "The part I still don't like is that I can't rely on the good ole PB sandwich as a fallback when I can't get to the grocery store." Stop the press, sorry for troubling you. You know what, give your kids PB & J and pray you don't kill a child with your ignorance. I would bet my life savings you would change your view if the shoe was on the other foot. Thank you Mr/Ms. Anonymous.
Texas
Anonymous
Reply
afghanistan -- I was trying to be nice and voice an "opinion", but since you feel it necessary to vent a personal attack on someone trying to understand; here is one for you. There must be multiple things wrong with you, not just that you are hateful in your approach to inform. But also your inabilities to spell, punctuate, and write a grammatically correct sentence structure. You gave a low blow, and now I'll give one and make it personal. Now I understand why you want the entire world to flex around your demands, because you are too lame to take responsibilities for you and your own. I’ve read and re-read your rebuttals to the entire postings on the website and it is evident that you should never be a public spokesperson for this cause or any other cause. You somehow think your issue is superior to those of other humans on the planet earth. If I were you, I would concentrate on mastering the Queen’s language so you don’t sound like such a fool when you sound off. I hope you go back and correct all the spelling and punctuation errors. Clearly, you feel intimidated by the quality of the other postings. I feel sorry for you and for your kid. Nobody attacked you personally, yet you found it necessary to issue statements about someone’s name, etc. And your postings are dripping with sarcasm. I don’t want to use words that are too large for you to understand; that means, scorn, cynicism, or contempt. Funny thing is, I came to this posting in an effort to understand; but the pathetic hateful posting by both sides eradicates the necessity to recommend this website to others. Good Job!! Don’t use the word ignorant unless you know how to spell it!! It is spelled with an “a”, not an “e”. That is just one of several words you do not know how to spell.
No location
Withheld
Please
From an allergy parent's view -- not peanuts (soy products). Whoever wrote the post about getting rid of the handicap signs, I'm confused. This is an allergy not a handicap. Besides, it is our issue. If you want to make that comparison, that would be like making all children transport themselves all day in a wheelchair just because one child is wheelchair bound. Oh yeah, and the person that thinks PA is unique. Perfume allergies are airborne also. Just so you know, City and Govt. buildings ask that no worker wear perfume. It is only a request, not a demand.