#Thinking Thursdays
There are several classes with children who have Tree Nut allergies. These allergies can be life-threatening for children. Our Food Allergy policy was reviewed with the families of these children, the classroom staff and the preschool director before school began. Each family will be examining the daily snacks, reading the ingredients on the label and giving written permission for their child to be able to consume the item. Please remember to bring in all food labels (if applicable) with the snack when it is your child’s snack week! This helps families determine the safety of the snack. Here are some reminders and suggestions for safe snacks for children with Tree Nut allergies:
🥕 Fresh Fruits & Veggies
- Fruit kabobs (grapes, melon, strawberries on a stick)
- Apple slices (with Sunbutter or plain)
- Banana halves (dipped in yogurt and frozen)
- Cucumber rounds or baby carrots (with hummus or ranch)
- Mini bell pepper strips
🥯 Grains & Baked Snacks
- Mini bagels with cream cheese or jam
- Whole grain crackers (e.g., Ritz, Triscuits, Wheat Thins)
- Nut-free granola bars (e.g., MadeGood, Enjoy Life)
- Rice cakes (plain, or with cream cheese and berries)
- Mini muffins (banana, blueberry, etc. -nut-free brands)
🧀 Protein & Dairy
- String cheese or cheese cubes
- Yogurt tubes or cups (check for cross-contamination labels)
- Hard-boiled eggs (cut in half for younger kids)
- Cottage cheese with fruit
🧃 Fun Combo Snacks
- Ants on a log with Sunbutter and raisins (use celery)
- Mini pita pockets with cream cheese or hummus
- Tortilla roll-ups with turkey and cheese (cut into pinwheels)
- Snack mix (e.g., Cheerios, pretzels, dried fruit—ensure all are nut-free)
✅ Tips for Tree Nut Allergy Safety:
- Always read labels for “may contain” or “processed in a facility” warnings.
- Avoid shared bakery items unless labeled nut-free.
