Managing coeliac disease symptoms, and adapting to the restrictions of a gluten free diet, can be complicated enough as an adult. But for children, it can be a real challenge. When their classmates are enjoying a pizza together, or their best friend wants to swap sandwiches at lunchtime, they can easily be tempted to ‘cheat’ or perhaps forget their gluten free diet altogether.

That’s why it’s important to explain their condition to them in a way that they understand. And to make sure that they know the significance of sticking to a gluten free diet. There are lots of ways that you can support them at home, at school and elsewhere, to make their gluten free diet easier and more enjoyable, and to help them stay healthy and avoid coeliac disease symptoms.

Teaching your child about the coeliac disease symptoms

Your child needs to understand that coeliac disease is not like other childhood illnesses. They won’t get better after a few days and there’s no ‘magic medicine’ or treatment from the doctor that will cure them. The only effective treatment is to stick to a strict gluten free diet.

That said, simply dictating what they can and can’t eat is not enough. Telling a child they can’t do something just makes them want to do it even more! It’s much more effective to explain their condition in a way that’s suitable for their age. Explain why they feel unwell and help them to understand what they can do to feel better. You’ll be surprised at how sensible and responsible even young children can be when they feel included and respected by grown-ups.

Make sure they understand their gluten free diet

Even if your child is too young to grasp the medical details of their condition. It’s vital that they understand the importance of their gluten free diet. Even small amounts of gluten can trigger coeliac disease symptoms. So, they need to completely understand the consequences if they eat the wrong thing.

Gluten is not like sweets or cakes, ‘that they have to learn to limit to special occasions. Gluten has to be completely eliminated, and children have to learn to resist temptation, especially when they’re away from home. They should be encouraged to ask a grown-up if they are ever unsure about whether something is safe for them to eat.

Working with their school

It’s essential that you let your child’s school know about their condition as soon as their place is confirmed. Offer to share information with your child’s school to educate them about coeliac symptoms and how to support your child to manage their condition. School staff will be happy to work closely with you to make sure your child stays safe.

Playdates and parties

There are lots of ways to keep your child from experiencing coeliac disease symptoms at home. But, once your they leave the house, you have far less control over what they eat and how it’s prepared.

The safest way to prevent coeliac disease symptoms is to send your child to parties and playdates with their own gluten free sandwiches and snacks. This avoids any risk of them eating the wrong thing, or of cross contamination from foods that contain gluten. Even the most well-meaning family and friends may not fully grasp just how careful they need to be to protect your child.

Eating out and holidays

Having a child with coeliac disease doesn’t mean that you can’t still enjoy family treats like a meal out together or a holiday abroad. You just need to plan ahead and make sure that there are gluten free options available. Restaurants are obliged to make you aware of any allergens in their dishes. This may be on the menu, or you may need to ask a member of staff. To be safe, it’s best to phone ahead to ensure the restaurant offers a gluten free alternative that your child will like.

The same is true when it comes to holidays. You need to let the airline know in advance that you require a gluten free in-flight meal for your child. You also need to check that your hotel offers gluten free options and that these are prepared safely. If in doubt, choose a different hotel. Read our article about gluten free holidays here.

Here to help

At Glutafin, we understand the challenges families face in protecting their children from coeliac disease symptoms. We’ve prepared a handy leaflet to help you and your child to understand the condition. We’ve also included some handy hits and tips to help you deal with it in everyday life. You can download a copy here, or contact us to request a hard copy.

Coeliac disease may be challenging for both parents and children. But, with a little planning and preparation, understanding and cooperation, there is no reason why your child shouldn’t still be able to live as full and fun a life as their friends.

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