Over the last few years dealing with multiple food allergies, I've looked for ways to help explain them to my kids. During this time, I put together a list of some of my favorite childrens's books on the subject. Hopefully you'll find a book or two on this list that will help your little ones understand and advocate for themselves, and realize they aren't alone in their journey with food allergies!
Here's a few of my favorites:
Nutly, the Nut Free Squirrel by Stephanie Sorkin
Written by a mother who has a child with food allergies herself, she has in-depth understanding of what kid's struggle with when handed a food allergy diagnosis. The book is about Nutley, a squirrel with the unthinkable - A NUT ALLERGY! This adorable book is perfect for kids of all ages and my favorite part is that the author has pledged to give all proceeds to one of my favorite non-profits, Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE).
Penny and the Peanut by Micaa’ Thomas
Another book written by a mother who has a child with food allergies, she created a great social-emotional learning book, offering a clear educational opportunity for all children to learn key life saving strategies to utilize in the event of a medical emergency. In the story, a friend takes swift action of alerting an adult when an emergency occurs, explains the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction, and dialing “911” for urgent medical assistance. It also received a winning Laurel Award from the Purple Dragonfly Book Awards Committee last year. This beautifully illustrated book is perfect for kids ages 3-10, and your kids will want to read it over and over again!
Daniel Has an Allergy by Angela C. Santomero (Adapter)
If you are looking for a book inspired by your child's favorite TV characters, this is it. In this story, Daniel learns how to manage a food allergy to peaches. He learns how to advocate for himself and to make sure he stays safe in this cute book for pre-schoolers based on the TV episode.
Austin's Allergies by Erin Mandras
This book is a great resource for making kids understand that they can still have fun with food allergies as long as they understand how to stay safe. Austin describes the importance of acting quickly, the diligence required to avoid allergic foods, and shares new tricks on what others can do to help keep him safe. It's a great book for pre-schoolers, and the sequel is now available too! Check out Austin Goes to a Birthday Party for more specific ways kids can deal with a special event!
ABC is that safe for me? by Diane Marunczak
A food allergy mom herself, the author explores a variety of different ways to prepare your child to confidently and safely manage school days with food allergies through colorful pictures and fun rhyming verses. This book is great for kids ages 4-6 years old!
The Hidden Hero by Riya Miglani and Riya Jain
This book was written by two high-school girls with food allergies themselves. It's about Hazel Harris, a 9-year old girl with food allergies, going through the hardship of feeling like she is different, but after hearing some wise words from her mother, she begins to feel differently. She realizes that everyone is going through something whether you know it or not. Food allergies are just her something! The Hidden Hero is a book that empowers young kids who may feel like they are different, and is great for young kids!
Nicholas' Nut-Free Christmas by Danielle Lynn
This is a Christmas book that is a great read all year round! Nicholas is excited to celebrate Christmas with his family and friends. There is just one problem, his Grandma is insisting on making her “famous” Pecan Pie and since Nicholas is allergic to nuts he is determined to change her mind! This story shows what many of us deal with - family who lacks the desire to accommodate our food allergies. A great story for young kids!
What? I Could be Allergic to That? by Ratika Gupta MD and Niha Qamar MD
Written by two Board-Certified Allergists, this book is a fun look at some unusual allergies that people can have! Everyone knows about being allergic to pollen and pets, but did you know that's just the tip of the iceberg? This book contains allergies your doctor may not even know about. A great read for older kids and even parents!
Honorable Mention:
Am I a Unicorn by Stephanie Sorkin
This story, written by a food allergy mom is not exactly about food allergies, but it is about being different. In this story, the unicorn's OUTERcorn doesn't match the INNERcorn. This story has beautiful illustrations and is perfect for all young kids!
This bookshelf pictured in this blog post is from Dadadababy, the makers of some of our favorite non-toxic children's furniture! The Muse Bookcase pictured is the perfect space to keep your toddler’s most precious items (and food allergy books) within easy reach on the topple-safe, sturdy, and stylish bookshelf. Click here grab one now!
See a book missing from this list? Shoot me a message or comment below!
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