Considering that it’s Celiac Awareness Month, we decided to shed a little light on different ways you can live a gluten-free lifestyle, and still have a healthy, balanced diet.

One of the most complicated and difficult things a person can deal with is having a child who has celiac disease. Especially if the child is young, they may not even fully understand what they have to deal with or why.  So, it’s up to the parent to give them the guidance and direction they need to stay healthy.

When your child is outside of your sight, and out of your care, such as when they’re at a daycare center or preschool, it can be stressful on you as a parent. There are things you can do to make the transition easier.  By talking with your care-providers and your child, here are some ways to make the day go by more easily:

Teach your child to ask about ingredients, and to take control of their own diet. The more information you can get them to remember and to value, the better off they’ll be in the long run.

Educate the staff about your child’s condition. You can easily prevent your child from feeling left out by providing information on gluten-free meals that can be prepared.  You can also prepare for birthday parties and other celebrations by making gluten-free cupcakes ahead of time and storing them at the facility.

Make sure the staff and your child know about any crafts that might contain gluten that they would have to avoid or replace. Things like play-dough, silly putty, and noodles need to be avoided.

For a complete book on tips for your child’s gluten-free life, check out the “Incredible Edible Gluten-Free Food for Kids” book, by Sheri L. Sanderson. Packed with tips and meals for a gluten-free lifestyle, it will keep you and your family healthy and growing.   This book is item # 3242 in our catalog and at http://www.ncescatalog.com.