For those lucky enough to be born in March, count yourself among a select group of creative dreamers who are empathetic and optimistic. According to studies (and a smidge of astrology, if you believe in that kind of thing), here are eight cool traits and factoids that make March birthdays special.

Looking for other months? Check out interesting facts about people born in April, people with February birthdays, and facts about people born in May.

You might end up with a night owl

According to this sleep study published by the National Library of Medicine, sleep habits are affected by when you’re born. The findings suggest that kids born in spring and summer tend to stay up later than those born during the winter months due to the increased photoperiod directly after birth, which leads to phase delay (your body telling you it’s nighttime and therefore bedtime) of the human circadian system.

March is a month of dreamers and heroes

Those born under the sign of Pisces are also charismatic, affectionate, and generous. If you’ve got a Pisces baby, support their boundless imagination with plenty of pretend play, creative outlets, and games. Because those born under this half of March’s zodiac sign are empathetic, they’ll go above and beyond for their loved ones. 

The birthstone for March represents youth, good health, and hope

The aquamarine gem is a luxurious blue, and while it isn’t considered a precious stone, is often associated with not only good health and hope but a feeling of calm, trust, and fearlessness. According to Truly Experiences, sailors used to carry aquamarine with them on sea voyages for protection, as the semi-precious gem was thought to be the treasure of the mermaids.

March babies have pretty good eyesight

While winter-born babies have the best vision overall, babies born in spring have been shown to have better eyesight than their summer friends, according to a study of 300,000 military applicants. A co-author of the study explains that babies born in the summer months have a 25% chance of becoming nearsighted. The reason? The study suggests that the cause might be long-term exposure to natural light in early life.

Solitude is a must for some of those with March birthdays

Pisces babies (Feb. 19-Mar. 20) love people, but they love solitude just as much. Known as super creative and imaginative, March babies enjoy getting lost in their thoughts and are content to spend time alone.

March babies are romantic and soulful

Guided more by intuition than by structure, those born under the sign of Pisces are ideal partners and friends. They tend to be compassionate and have an open heart that forgives and forgets easily. They can tap into the feelings of their loved ones and be empathetic, which is a plus in moments of conflict.

There are plenty of celebrities with March birthdays

Famous people like a little extra luck too! People born in March share their birthday month with lots of famous people, including Justin Bieber, Shaquille O’Neal, Chuck Norris, Queen Latifah, Reese Witherspoon, Bruce Willis, Elton John, Sarah Jessica Park, and more.

—with additional reporting by Karly Wood

 

Spoiler alert: If your kids can read, do not let them read about how to send letters to Santa. Read this post in secret!

You stay up late wrapping presents in secret and make a show of setting out cookies and milk, but there’s one more thing you can do to prove Santa is real. This year, take the classic letter to Santa to a new level by not only sending it but also making sure your kiddos receive a response from the Jolly Old Elf himself. The USPS has an awesome program in place and if you’ve never done it before, this is your year. Here’s what you need to know.

Step 1: Write the letter to Santa!

First things first: write the letter to Santa. Kids that can’t write yet can dictate to parents and spend a little time decorating the letter with stickers or a drawing. If your kiddos are learning their letters, you can always have them trace over some of the words. For kiddos that can write, make sure they have enough paper on hand but try and keep it to one page. Remember, this does not have to be a list of all the things they want for Christmas. They can also just send a letter thanking Santa for his hard work or asking him what his life is like. Be creative!

Have them put their letter in an envelope, addressed to: 

Santa Claus
North Pole

Try to avoid sealing this envelope without being too obvious.

 

Step 2: Write a response to your child.

iStock

Okay, here’s the spoiler part! Using your stealth parenting-in-the-night skills, the same ones that power you to wrap presents and fill stockings undetected, you will need to write out the response from Santa (disguise your writing if you think necessary) and place it in an envelope addressed to your child with a return address of Santa Claus, North Pole. 

Make sure you put a stamp on this envelope: The current rate is 66 cents, or use a Forever stamp.

Tip: USPS suggests writing the response from Santa on the back of your child’s letter to save space and to make sure your kiddo will remember what they wrote (plus this way you get to keep it without giving anything away!).

Related: Do Your Kids Write Letters to Santa? They’re Not Alone 

Step 3: Mail it.

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Place everything into a larger envelope (like a Priority Mail Flat Rate or manilla envelope) and make sure there is adequate postage. A flat rate is great because you can buy the postage online and print the label, saving you a trip to the post office. 

Remember, in your envelope, you will have:

1 letter to Santa in an envelope addressed to Santa

1 response from Santa in an envelope addressed to a child with an actual postage stamp (and Santa’s return address)

Address this larger envelope to:

North Pole Postmark
Postmaster
4141 Postmark Dr.
Anchorage, Ak 99530-9998

The rest is up to Santa’s busy elves at the Postal Service. 

Important: The USPS recommends having the letters sent no later than Dec. 1 so that they can arrive at the Anchorage, AK office in time. 

Learn more here

Good to Know:

The USPS also operates Operation Santa, a letter-writing program for any kid in need. Children can write to a specific address and make requests. They even have a letter-writing kit. To learn more about this program, or to answer letters and donate to kids in need, click here.

Coming up with New Year’s Eve party ideas is a lot easier than you think

Whether you stay up until midnight (or 9 EST) to watch the ball drop or decide to do a Noon Year’s Eve thing, you can still host a memorable New Year’s Eve Party for kids. From easy appetizers to creating their own countdown and making confetti poppers, there are dozens of ways to make the last day of the year one they’ll never forget. We’ve got the best New Year’s Eve party ideas perfect for celebrating at home.

1. Plan Your Menu

New Year's Eve party ideas and food
iStock

Let the kids help with the party planning by whipping up a few appetizers made with just three ingredients (or less). From a creamy dip to the best breadsticks ever, there's something for even the pickiest of eaters. If you want something a little more sophisticated, but don't have a lot of time, try our favorite apps that come together in 30 minutes or less. Want to make it even more simple? Check out our favorite appetizers you can find at Trader Joe's. 

2. Hold a Mock Countdown

Throwing confetti is a classic New Years Eve party idea
Lotte Meijer via Unsplash

If your kids won’t make it to midnight, why not host a mock countdown before bedtime? There are dozens of videos available online where they can watch the ball drop (even if it’s last year!) and if you shout “Happy New Year” before the clock strikes 12, it will still be a stand-out celebration for them!

 

3. Play the Pajama Game

Gail Adams-Arnold

Another good New Year's Eve party idea is to host a good, old-fashioned pajama party with friends or just your family! Pile the living room high with sleeping bags, pillows, and blankets (props if you opt for a fort!), wear your coziest PJs, and camp out to watch the ball drop and the new year begin.

4. Dress to the Nines

dressing up is a fun New Year's Eve party idea
iStock

If a PJ party won't do the trick, host a formal affair in honor of the new year and let your littles don old dresses, jackets, gloves, bow ties, boas, and the like. Serve sparkling cider in fancy flutes, petite appetizers, and of course, a New Year’s cake!

5. Have a Cookie Encounter

baking cookies is a fun kids new year's eve party idea
iStock

Break out the sugar and flour and let your kids pick their favorite cookie recipe to bake. If you want to try something different this year, check out our favorite holiday cookie recipes

 

6. Drop the Ball Already

Using balloons is a fun New Year's Eve party idea
Kristin Eldridge for Modern Parents Messy Kids

Why watch the big event on TV when you can host your own? Create your own sparkling ball with a balloon or even piñata and lower it at midnight (or at any time of day if your littles can't stay up that late!). Your kids will love counting down in your own home—and bonus if the piñata ball drops prizes or treats!

7. Make It Glow

summer bucket list ideas
Anton Darius via Unsplash

You wouldn’t believe the amount of glow stick apparel out there! There is everything from necklaces to bracelets and glasses, and they all make a serious statement in the dark or in the backyard when you’re ringing in the new year. Check out our other glowingly good ideas here

 

 

Related: 12 Creative Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Day at Home

8. Make Some Noise

party poppers are one of the best New Year's Eve party ideas
Gabby Cullen

Poppers, pots and pans, confetti-filled balloons, you name it! Put together DIY noise-making machines to set off at midnight (or 8 PM, we won't tell!). These DIY Easy Confetti Poppers made from toilet paper rolls and construction paper are the perfect New Year's Eve party idea for younger kids. 

9. Wig Out!

Ronny Sison via Unsplash

Whether it's just you and the kids or if you're having a gathering, make a trip to the party store to pick out a wig for the big event! Kids will love taking on a new look for the night.

10. Make a Custom Countdown

using balloons for a countdown is a fun New Year's eve party idea
Kenny Eliason via Unsplash

Blow up several balloons with the hours left until the new year written on them (IE. Five Hours to Go, Four Hours to Go) and let your kids take turns popping them as each hour passes.

11. Toast with Toast

Damon Oliveira via Unsplash

When the clock strikes 12, we'll be toasting our bubbly flutes, so let the kids join in and put a spin on things! Pour sparkling cider for the petite partiers and get ready to toast—with toast! Let your kids nibble on their favorite toasts, everything from peanut butter and jelly to Nutella or even cheese! They'll have fun putting together these easy snacks and raising a slice to the new year!

12. Ring the Bell

Paging Supermom

A fun and noisy craft for kids, these New Year’s bells from Paging Supermomare pure genius. Pick up silver bells, golden yarn, and cool wrapping paper, and your party guests will be jingle-jangling in no time.

13. Toot Your Own (Edible) Horn

Cooking with My Kid

Your revelers will most definitely be tooting their own horns if they're edible! Only a little messy and way tasty, these tasty treats create a real sound machine when you nibble off the end of the cone.

14. Make a Wish

No Time for Flashcards

Drum up a little luck for the New Year. Kiddos will love the thumping sounds made by this clever craft. What’s it gonna take to make one? Glitter glue, stamp paint, star, and letter stickers. Don't forget to make a wish. Find out more from No Time for Flashcards.

15. Say Cheese!

Kelly Aiglon

Capture the moment with a DIY photo booth. This is where all those silly wigs and fancy dresses will have their chance to shine! 

16. Toss the Confetti!

tossing confetti is a fun New Year's Eve party idea for kids
iStock

One of our favorite New Year's Eve party ideas is to make your own confetti to toss when it is time to celebrate! Cut whatever paper you'd like into strips, then cut the strips into squares. Of course, tossing confetti makes a mess, but the kids will love using those paper squares to make art collages later on.

 

There’s still time to have an outdoor movie night

Summer vacation may be slipping away, but you can make every last moment count before sending the crew back to school. There are all sorts of summer bucket list ideas like sidewalk projects and science experiments that will keep your kids busy. We’ve got you covered with simple ways to spend some family time together and send the season out in style: we’re talking both indoor and outdoor activities that are sure to check a few boxes on your summer bucket list.

1. Go to a water park, or turn your backyard into one.

2. Bob for donuts at breakfast.

3. Make s’mores. You can go gourmet with one of these unconventional twists. 

4. Go backyard camping. We’ve got 10 great ideas to help you get started.

5. Go stargazing. Check out our top tips here.

6. Have an outdoor movie night.

7. Spend a day playing these old-school outdoor games.

8. Catch some one-on-one time with each kiddo, and make it special with these simple and sweet games for two.

9. Let them have that lemonade stand, or better yet, think out of the box with these alternatives to the classic.

having a 'yes day' is a fun summer bucket list idea
iStock

 

10. Have a yes day.

11. Stay up late and play flashlight tag.

12. Turn your porch into a comedy club and entertain each other with these hilarious jokes for kids.

13. Pick a day and pretend it’s 1982. Here’s your guidebook.

14. Find a firework show (check your local baseball team’s schedule) and bring your 3D glasses.

15. TP your kids’ rooms.

16. Break a Guinness Book of World Records. Peruse the titles up for grabs on the official site here.

17. Locate a national park near you and make a day or overnight trip to it.

18. Spend a morning with a kiddie pool in a brand-new way.

little girl riding a bike in the park, a summer bucket list idea
iStock

 

19. Decorate the family bikes and go for a ride through the neighborhood. 

20. Go to a drive-in movie, pack a picnic summer, and take a deck of playing cards.

21. Park it at the pool, and stay there until they close. Fill the hours with these awesome prop-less pool games.

22. Play twilight games after the lightning bugs come out.

23. Prank the kids. It’ll keep them on their toes!

24. Get cooking! Check out these 12 clever cooking games for kids, and the bonus is that they’ll get you psyched up for making those back-to-school lunches.

25. Mix some pretend potions for chasing away first-day jitters. Think of every superpower they might need, and whip up a potion for each one.

26. Spend a day at a kids’ museum. Here‘s a list of one in every state.

27. Plan a fun back-to-school tradition for the kids to make the new year special. 

Apple TV is offering free viewings, no subscription required

Last year, Apple TV+ threw the world a hail Mary when it allowed It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown to be broadcast on PBS in October. This year, the streamer is going a different way to show the special, and it will still be free for non-subscribers!

Back in 2020, Apple bought all the rights to the Peanuts specials, which means that the only place you can catch the beloved classics is on Apple TV+. That is still the case today.

Existing subscribers will happily put It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown and the other holiday special on repeat, but what if you don’t want to pay for another subscription just to get your dose of nostalgia? There are several ways you can watch––for free.

Related: The ‘Secret’ Netflix Codes for All the Family Halloween Movies

Apple TV

First, if you’ve never subscribed before you can head over to Apple TV and sign up for a free 7-day trial. There’s no need to wait until Oct. 31 either––It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown is already available for viewing.

You can also watch A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving and A Charlie Brown Christmas while you’re enjoying your trial! You will need to enter credit card info however, so set a reminder to cancel after seven days if you don’t want to pay $4.99 a month.

New this year, Apple TV is providing special free windows for non-subscribers to stream! From Oct. 28-31, you can watch It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown without having to sign up for a subscription.

Free windows will also exist for A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving from Nov. 23-27 and A Charlie Brown Christmas from Dec 22-25.

Related: Boo! Freeform’s ’31 Nights of Halloween’ Schedule Is Hauntingly Good

Courtesy of ABC Television Network

Another way to snag Apple TV+ for free is to take advantage of Best Buy’s three-month offer. Head to bestbuy.com, add the offer to your cart, check out and enjoy 90 days for free!

If you don’t mind shelling out a little dough so you can watch the movie whenever you darn well please, both a DVD and 4K disc version is available on Amazon for just $14.

We’ve compiled some family-friendly activities that everyone, from little kids to aging relatives, will enjoy when the grandparents visit

Overdue for a visit from the grandparents? Thankfully, our favorite city offers tons of fun stops and sights that are perfect for all ages. We know our kiddos can quickly wear out our parents, so we’ve rounded up some great places with easy access—and lots of benches for a quick rest. Get started on your family day out in Washington, DC.

Urban Adventures Tour

Urban Adventures Tours

Skip the crowded hop-on-hop-off buses, and opt for a private tour around town aboard an electric vehicle. Customize a family adventure or choose from one of the group tours. Let your little ones stay up late to see the majestic monuments by night, or book a food tour your whole crew will find delicious.

718 7th St. NW
Washington, DC
Online: urbanadventures.com

Washington National Cathedral

Francis Xavier on Unsplash

The cathedral offers almost daily prayer, musical events, and services for your family. Many of their holiday events are simply magical, so be sure to check the calendar of events before you plan your visit. In addition, the cathedral provides accommodations for visitors with impaired hearing and limited mobility.

Insider Tip: Be sure to download the scavenger hunt guide, which includes fun facts about on-site history and art, before you head to the cathedral. Then, make a game of it and see if you can find each one. The Children's Chapel is a must-see, too. The space was designed with a 6-year-old in mind!

3101 Wisconsin Ave. NW
Washington, DC
Online: cathedral.org

Related: 48 U.S. Spots to Visit with Your Kids Before They Grow Up

ARTECHOUSE

ARTECHOUSE

Take art-loving grandparents alongside your tech-savvy kiddos to a super cool exhibit that combines both interests. Everyone can interact with the larger-than-life art installations and learn about the artists and the technology they use to create masterpieces. Exhibits change throughout the year, so check back often to see what's new for the whole family.

1238 Maryland Ave. SW
Washington, DC
Online: artechouse.com

Lincoln Memorial

grandparents visit
Josue Aguazia on Unsplash

Many grandparents will remember Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech delivered from the steps of this incredible monument. Although they may prefer to stay at the bottom of the steps or take the elevator located at the southeast corner of the building, your kids can learn a lot about our country's history while visiting this location. Plan your stop anytime during your family's itinerary, as the memorial is open 24/7.

2 Lincoln Memorial Cir. NW
Washington, DC
Online: nps.gov

Related: DC’s Best Places to See Fall Foliage

Mt. Vernon Estate

Antonella Vilardo on Unsplash

Let your grandparents set the pace at this historical site right on the Potomac River. Your little ones will love visiting the farm animals and exploring the outbuildings, while the older generation can take a short break on the wagon ride. Music lovers of all ages will enjoy the early American concert while they stroll the grounds together. 

Insider Tip: The Mount Vernon Trails stretches from Mt. Vernon Estate to Theodore Roosevelt Island. For the best views, take a short walk—or hike any part of the 18-mile trail—to enjoy the stunning views of the Potomac River and the city. 

3200 Mount Vernon Hwy.
Alexandria, VA
Online: mountvernon.org

 

National Museum of African American History and Culture

grandparents visit
Dineda Nyepan on Unsplash

According to the founding director of this spectacular museum, "the African American experience is the lens through which we understand what it is to be an American." That lens is on display throughout each thoughtful and impactful exhibit inside this architectural marvel. Get your timed entry passes before your head out to this free attraction. 

Insider Tip: If you're hungry, save time to pop into a nearby eatery. Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken is the perfect stop for breakfast, lunch, and sweets. If your crew is ready for a crazy but delicious combo, go for the chicken doughnut sandwich. It's epic. 

1400 Constitution Ave. NW
Washington, DC
Online: nmaahc.si.edu

Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

grandparent visit
Felipe Leite on Unsplash

Take the family car to Northern Virginia, and get ready to enjoy a hangar full of planes, rockets, and restoration projects on display for the whole family. Hop in a simulation to experience your flying adventure, or book a showing at the on-site IMAX theater.

Insider Tip: It might be something to save for a later visit, but every June, the museum opens its doors and takes the aircraft outside. Visitors enjoy seeing more than 50 aircraft of all kinds at the annual Become a Pilot Family Day and Aviation Display.

14390 Air and Space Museum Pkwy.
Chantilly, VA
Online: airandspace.si.edu

 

Regular bedtimes are important for everyone in the house

If the bedtime battle is the most dreaded time of day in your house, it can be tempting to give in and let the kids stay up late. However, research shows why kids need a regular bedtime and it’s more important than just having some mom-time once the kids are (finally) asleep.

A study in the United Kingdom looked at the sleep habits of 10,000 kids ages three to seven years old. The research, published in the journal Pediatrics, concluded that kids with irregular bedtimes had more behavioral difficulties than those who went to bed at the same time consistently.

Related: Earlier Bedtimes for Kids Is Better for Your Sanity, According to Study

 

little girl at bedtime
iStock

The study, which reported that 20 percent of three-year-olds did not have a consistent bedtime, found that kids who did not routinely go to bed at the same time every night were more likely to be unhappy, inconsiderate of others and argued more. The behaviors reported were based on surveys of both parents and teachers.

A follow-up to the study found that irregular bedtimes were also linked with increased risk for obesity and low-self esteem, as well as lower math scores. Regular bedtimes, on the other hand, were shown to have a positive impact on a kid’s development, health and behavior.

The good news is, even if you’ve let that bedtime slide on more than one occasion, it’s not too late. The researchers found that the effects could be reversed by implementing a consistent sleep schedule. When kids switched from having irregular bedtimes to having a regular bedtime they showed measurable improvements in their behavior. The study’s lead researcher, Yvonne Kelly explained, “This shows that it’s never too late to help children back onto a positive path, and a small change could make a big difference to how well they get on.”

RELATED STORIES: Can You Really Make Up For Lost Sleep? Science Has an Answer

 

 

 

Strawberry-picking season has officially begun in Los Angeles (the season usually runs from Mar. through Jun.) so it’s time to don your sun hat and make delicious plans for all the juicy fruit you and the kids will be hauling home. Read below to find the best places in LA to pick strawberries near LA, or if you aren’t into doing the picking yourself and just want to pick-up the freshest berries, we’ve got you covered too.

Underwood Family Farms

Underwood Family Farms is the place to go if you are looking for more than strawberry-picking fun. Wagon rides, an animal center, a retail shop filled with goodies like honey and fresh cut flowers, seasonal events, plus the ability to pick some seasonal vegetables along with the sweet stuff makes this destination a fun, full-day outing for most families. Pull wagons (first come, first served) are available to transport your haul from the fields. 

Pro Tip: Check their Instagram page for strawberry picking updates (the opening of the fields were slightly delayed due to cooler temperatures and to allow more fruit to ripen). 

Hours: Open daily from 9 a.m.—6 p.m.
Cost: Weekdays, $7 per person; Weekends, $10; Special pricing on certain weekends. Kids under 2 are free.

Moorpark & Somis Locations
Online: underwoodfamilyfarms.com

Tanaka Farms

Since 1940, Tanaka Farms has been a real working farm and has produced some of the sweetest strawberries in SoCal. This year, they are offering strawberry picking as part of their u-pick wagon rides that includes: a ride around the farm, family fun in the designated play area, the chance to pick strawberries plus one veggie or, if strawberries aren’t available at the time of your arrival, they’ll substitute for three vegetables depending on crop availability, plus a walk through their education exhibition. If your heart is set on strawberries, know that you can always pick up some pre-harvested strawberries (along with other yummy treats like jams and nuts) from the fresh market stand that is open daily.

Pro Tip: Reservations for strawberry picking tours are required. If strawberries are plentiful this season, they will open up berry picking without requiring a tour. Check their Instagram page for the latest updates on crop availability.

Hours: Wagon rides are available 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.; The Fresh Produce Market Stand is open daily from 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
Cost: $20 per person; kids under 2 are free.

5380 3/4 University Dr.
Irvine
Online: tanakafarms.com

Kenny’s Strawberry Farm
For the past 10 years, Kenny’s has been delivering glorious strawberries to SoCal. Open by reservation this year, don’t forget to save time and space in your belly for a visit to Kenny’s Farm Kitchen for ice cream bars made by DOH Creamery. Check their Instagram page for the latest updates.

Hours: Fri.-Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Cost: $17 for a large bucket; $7 for a small bucket

953 Rainbow Valley Blvd.
Fallbrook
Online: kennysstrawberryfarm.com

Carlsbad Strawberry Company

If you’re up for a drive, Carlsbad has the perfect climate for growing some of the juiciest strawberries around. The Carlsbad Strawberry Company’s u-pick fields are now open and offer a fun way to get out of the house with your family for the day. In addition to picking your own, they also have a sunflower maze, free games, and hay pyramids. 

Hours: Fields and strawberry stands are open daily from 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Cost: $5 general admission. $12 for a bucket admits 1 person. Kids under 5 are free.

1050 Cannon Rd.

Terry Berries: Everyone can agree that just-off-the-vine strawberries taste the best but if you can’t pick them yourself, swing by these locations for harvested-for-you berries. Terry’s Berries, an offshoot of Terry’s Farm, is located in Ventura, CA has been doling out strawberries since 2003. To stay up-to-date with availability, join their newsletter and follow their Instagram page.

Hours: Mon.-Sat. 11:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. (or until sold out); closed Wed. & Sun.

7618 Telephone Rd.
Ventura
Online: terrysberries.com

Thacker Berry Farms: Serving California for over 25 years, this 5-star reviewed strawberry stand has some passionate fans, claiming the juiciest strawberries around. With 10 locations in and around Los Angeles County and North Orange County, you are sure to be close to one of their stands for a quick pick-up. 

Hours: 10 a.m–5:00 p.m.; closed Sun.

Various Locations
Online: thackerberryfarms.com

–Jennifer O’Brien & Andie Huber & Carmen Garcia-Shushtari

RELATED STORIES:
Your Guide to Sustainable & Eco-Friendly LA
Free Things to Do in LA with Kids in May
Secret Family-Friendly Vacation Gems near LA

Starting daycare is a daunting experience for any parent. When you add in the issue of food allergies the high anxiety experience can leave you worried for your child’s life. But for some of us, daycare is the only option we have. To get through it safely, here are a few tips for dealing with daycare and food allergies.

To deal with daycare and food allergies the best way to start is to take control of what you can. Get involved with food prep and give detailed instructions to those who you fear may not have food allergy training. Bring reminders and have paperwork for everyone involved, so you’re all literally on the same page.

Food Allergies in Daycares

Chances are your daycare will have at least one child that has food allergies already attending. Since 8% of children in the US have food allergies, about 1 in 13 children or 2 students per classroom are dealing with allergies.

Despite this growing number, you may find some schools are less prepared than others to deal with food allergies. Because food allergy education and training is different everywhere, you will have to be vocal about your safety concerns.

Get an idea of how prepared the school is during the first walkthrough or orientation. Explain how severe your child’s allergy is and ask if there are other children with food allergies.

Take a look at where the children eat and how food is handled. Be sure they understand that food allergy safety also means avoiding cross-contamination. Will children be eating allergenic foods and immediately playing with toys?

Ask every question you think of there’s no room for misunderstandings.

Food Allergies & How to Deal With Them in a Childcare Setting

To deal with food allergies in a childcare setting, all teachers and parents should be notified of a child with food allergies in a class. This means everyone knows, so no one from another class comes in and makes a mistake.

Parents share a lot of information from the start. To help with communication be ready with as much food allergy information as you can.

  • Having a doctor’s note always helps people understand the seriousness of the situation (if you’re dealing with a daycare that doesn’t understand, find another one).

  • Leave detailed instructions for the epi-pen.

  • Use food allergy cards and stickers as reminders.

  • Write out substitutes for allergies on the school’s menus so the daycare has options.

  • Have an emergency care plan.

  • Teach your child to be vocal about their food allergies.

This is no time for your child to be called picky—allow your little one to voice their opinion. Let the school know you taught your toddler about food allergies and let them question if a food is safe.

In some cases, the school may not have access to simple substitutes like soy milk for dairy. So you’ll take on the role of providing school lunch earlier than expected.

Learn to Meal Prep

With the hefty price tag of daycare, bringing your own lunch can be a problem, but with a few meal prep ideas, you can keep the cost down. The benefit of making your own lunch is you know what your child is eating each day.

Create meals for the week and take them to the school on Monday. No need to lug milk every day if the school has a full kitchen. Drop off the soymilk on Monday and have the daycare inform you when it’s all out.

This gives the providers the chance to serve the toddlers lunch with the other children. Labeling and prepping is a lot of work, but for some doing it once a week versus every day may help.

Of course, this option will require a lot of communication. This plan depends on the daycare’s st‌yle and how comfortable you are with the ability to avoid cross-contamination.

Take Advantage of Bento Boxes

Make lunch with your toddler’s favorite foods in a bento box. Add crackers, lunch meat, fruit, veggies, and their favorite dip. A bento box doesn’t have to mean big expensive lunches your toddler doesn’t want. Keep it simple and change up the ingredients and it’ll always be fresh.

Sometimes it’s best to choose options that don’t have to be heated so handling is kept to a minimum. However, when you want add a sandwich or dinner the day before and use your regular fruits and veggies as sides.

Skip Breakfast (If You Can)

My boys are allergic to eggs. I’m lucky enough to work from home, so when eggs are for breakfast at daycare, I drop them off a little later. They skip breakfasts they can’t eat at school and have breakfast at home.

If that’s not an option pack up breakfast on the go and always remind the daycare they already ate or they have their own.

When it comes to lunch, give in to your child’s demands. No point in creating beautiful nutritious meals they don’t want. If they want seed butter and jelly three days in a row, don’t feel bad for giving it to them. You still have dinnertime at home to fill the gaps.

While these tips may not get rid of all your fear, being prepared can help put your mind at ease. Making notes on the weekly or monthly menu will keep everyone stay up to date at every meal. Using eye-catching stickers and food allergy cards on bookbags and cubbies is a fun way to use reminders.

When substitutes aren’t an option, bring your own lunch. Meal prepping with bento boxes and skipping breakfast at school can keep costs low. Choose your child’s favorites to ensure they eat every bite.

Starting daycare is hard, but you can get through it, even with food allergies. Once you witness the fun your child has making friends and bringing home artwork, you’ll see why it’s worth it

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I'm Lydia, a mom of two boys with eczema and food allergies. After feeling lost, I created a blog to help with parenting a child with eczema. Writing about that journey led to my content creation and marketing business, where I am a small business freelance writer.