Should I tell my child's teacher about their lactose intolerance?

Yes. Provide written information about safe foods and what to do if your child accidentally eats dairy. Keep it simple and non-alarmist.

What do I do if my child eats dairy by accident at a party?

Stay calm. Most lactose intolerance symptoms are uncomfortable but not dangerous. Have antacids or lactase pills on hand if your child uses them. Reassure them it's okay.

How do I handle peer pressure about food?

Teach your child a simple response: 'My body doesn't do well with dairy.' Frame it as a personal choice, not a restriction. Role-play if needed.

School & Parties — Navigate Social Eating with Confidence

Your child's lactose intolerance doesn't have to be a social barrier. Here's how to handle school lunches, birthday parties, and group events.

At School

Before the School Year Starts

Meet with the school nurse and teacher. Provide a written summary of your child's needs and safe foods.
Share a list of safe snacks. Include brands and specific products (e.g., "Enjoy Life granola bars").
Provide backup snacks. Leave a stash at school for unexpected situations (birthday treats, class parties).
Clarify the lunch policy. Can your child bring lunch daily? Are there restrictions on outside food?

Daily Lunch Management

Pack lunch from home. This is the easiest way to ensure dairy-free meals.
If using school lunch: Check the menu in advance. Call the cafeteria to ask about ingredients and dairy content.
Label everything. Use your child's name on containers and snacks.
Teach your child to ask. "Does this have milk?" is a simple, empowering question.

Birthday Parties & Group Events

Before the Party

Contact the host in advance. Explain your child's needs politely: "My child can't have dairy. Can I bring a dairy-free treat to share?"
Offer to bring a dish. Bring a main, side, or dessert that everyone can enjoy. This takes pressure off the host.
Pack a backup snack. Bring a safe treat in case the party food isn't suitable.
Keep it low-key. Frame it as a preference, not a crisis. Kids pick up on your energy.

At the Party

Help your child navigate the food table. Point out safe options: fruit, veggies, chips, etc.
Don't make it weird. Serve your child's safe treat matter-of-factly. Other kids won't notice or care.
Focus on fun, not food. Games, activities, and friends matter more than cake.

Talking to Your Child

Use simple, positive language. "Your body works better without milk" rather than "You're allergic."
Teach them to advocate. "If someone offers you something with milk, you can say 'No thanks, I don't eat dairy.'"
Normalize it. Many kids have food restrictions. It's not shameful or unusual.
Celebrate safe foods. Make lactose-free eating feel like a positive choice, not a punishment.

Remember: Your child's social life matters. Don't let lactose intolerance become a barrier to friendship, parties, or belonging. With planning, it's manageable.

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