Show and Tell

[Kirsty27]

My son (age 9), diagnosed with celiac just this summer, was having a few problems with friends at school not understanding his new diet and wanting him to 'share' lunches the way he always used to. They also got really frustrated with him needing to read the label if they ever offered him a snack from a packet. The teachers were all brilliant, but the kids didn't really get it.

Anyway, we made the most of 'Show and Tell' when it came to his turn, and together we put together a presentation of what celiac disease is and child friendly illustrations, most of which my son came up with himself. (The 'Gluten of Doom' was my favourite!) He also talked about how he felt when he couldn't eat food he wanted to and what happened to him if he did get glutened by accident. And he took in a gluten free chocolate cupcake for everyone in his class to try.

It was a complete success! They loved the cupcakes and best of all they now understand his condition a lot better and even remind each other to check labels before offering him something! He feels a lot more supported at school now. Sometimes he seems to wear his celiacs as a badge of honour!
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Kirsty

http://www.MyGlutenFreeChild.com

[aklap]

Hey, that's a really great idea! Often times once people are educated a bit, they handle it much better. They become more understanding of the whole thing.

The Gluten of Doom - sound very ominous

Thanks for sharing.
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Al

“We cannot all do great things, but we can do small things with great love.” Mother Teresa

[lorka]

I should have done that when I was diagnosed to get my friends to understand.... but I was twenty-three and that sort of thing didn't fly


Sounds great! Glad it worked out.
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Gluten-free, vegan blog: Whisking & Writing
Gluten-free, Casein-Free, Whole Foods: Mission in the Kitchen