Tips for taking care of Gluten Free kids

Ceoliacs disease is becoming more and more common in the Irish population and we are now more aware than ever that children can have it too. If you're minding a child who is on a gluten free diet, it can sometimes be a daunting task trying to figure out exactly what you can feed them. But with these simple steps, it will help ease the way to caring for them just like any other child.

Learn what gluten free means

Gluten-free food is free of wheat, barley and rye. Only oats that are certified gluten free are safe.

You may not realize how many items have gluten in them until you start looking for products without it. Breads, crackers, pasta, cookies and pizza are among the items that are likely to contain gluten. You will have to buy a gluten-free specialty version of any of these kinds of products.

Always read labels looking for wheat or barley. Read labels on any processed food you plan to give the child. Look for wheat in the ingredients list or a statement that says, “Contains wheat.”

Food labeled “wheat free” is not necessarily gluten free. Many supermarkets now have special sections where they stock all kinds of gluten-free products so it's best to start there if you are unsure.

Have gluten-free food on hand

Make sure you are already stocked with some gluten-free options when said child/children come to visit. Find a little space in a cupboard or on a shelf for his or her items so they always know where to look. This way they feel welcomed and accepted. Ready-made products might be easier at first if you are not confident about cooking and baking gluten free.

If you like to bake and cook, there are numerous gluten-free recipes available on our website HERE.

We even have a Gluten Free Children's snack book to download for FREE. DOWNLOAD HERE.

Think inclusively

Always make sure the child is included at meals and not made to feel like they are different. For example, if you are making spaghetti, it’s a simple matter of making some gluten-free pasta while being mindful of the potential for cross-contamination in cooking and serving utensils. Gluten Free spaghetti is readily available in most health stores and supermarkets now.

If you are having a treat or dessert, make sure to have something for the child especially if other children are around. It’s great if you can make something gluten-free that everyone can share. We have lots of simple and easy dessert recipes HERE.

Prevent cross-contamination

It takes practice. Always remember to clean all areas and don’t use the same serving spoon when preparing a gluten free meal alongside non-gluten free foods.

Be careful if you are giving the child gluten free toast as crumbs from the toaster can cross-contaminate gluten-free food, so it’s best not to share one. You can purchase special toaster bags that will prevent cross-contamination or have a separate toaster used only for gluten-free items.

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