When children are diagnosed with gluten-related disorders such as coeliac disease, ensuring they adhere to a strict gluten-free diet is essential. However, this major change can be difficult and unsettling for children. With care, understanding and planning, parents and foster carers can help children embrace the gluten-free lifestyle. Read on for some helpful guidance on making the transition smoother.
1. Understanding the Condition
Whether you’re fostering with an agency like the Fostering People or a birth parent, the initial step is educating yourself on your child’s gluten-related condition. For coeliac disease, speak to your GP or consultant pediatrician. They can explain the autoimmune disorder, its symptoms, and long-term risks. They will advise on the required gluten-free diet and regular follow-ups. Join Coeliac UK for access to trusted information, forums, and local group support. Their website has dietary advice sheets for children of different ages. Work closely with your child’s school to ensure safety at mealtimes.
2. Explaining the Diet to Your Children
Sit down with your child and explain why they need to stop eating foods containing gluten. Reassure them it’s not their fault and highlight the benefits – feeling healthier and having more energy! Compare it to an allergy/intolerance they understand, e.g., nuts. Provide approved gluten-free snacks and lunches to show the diet won’t be restrictive. Present it positively as a family lifestyle change. Include older children in menu planning and food prep.
3. Making Food Fun and Normal
Involve children in reading labels and finding ‘free from’ symbols. Make it a game in supermarkets to spot gluten-free products. Cook together to allow children to see the diet isn’t depriving. Provide gluten-free equivalents of favourite foods like pizza bases and cakes. Use colourful plates and cut shapes out of bread. At parties, ensure your child has similar sweet treats. Reward good behaviour with tasty gluten-free snacks. Normalise the diet by having the whole family eat gluten-free at home.
4. Eating Out Gluten-Free
Eating out requires extra care. Phone ahead to check a restaurant’s allergen procedures. Stick to naturally gluten-free dishes. Ask about hidden gluten, e.g. thickeners. Request that the preparation surfaces and utensils be thoroughly cleaned. Ask for sauces/dressings to be served separately. Carefully check the children’s plates before they eat. Always carry suitable snacks in case of mistakes. Show your child how to speak up about their needs politely.
5. Dealing with Exclusion and Bullying
Explain that other children may not fully understand the gluten-free diet and might make comments. Tell teachers so they can manage teasing or unwanted food sharing. Have a backup plan if your child feels left out at a party. Role-play responses to questions and teach your child to stay calm, explaining their needs. Praise your child for educating others. Arrange playdates with gluten-free friends. Always make them feel supported at home.
Adjusting to a gluten-free life can be difficult for children, but with the right support at home and school, the transition can be much smoother. Be patient, make it fun and focus on all the great gluten-free foods they can still enjoy. With time, the diet will become second nature.
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