First Playdate? 5 Tips to Keep It Allergy-Safe Without the Stress

Playdates are supposed to be fun — a chance for kids to laugh, play, and build friendships. But when your child has food allergies, that first playdate outside your own home can feel overwhelming.

I’ll never forget Everett’s very first playdate. It was literally just around the corner from our house, but I think I walked up every 10 minutes to “casually” check in. My heart knew he was fine, but my head was on high alert. Playdates are high-stress activities for allergy parents — there’s no way around it.

Over time, we’ve learned some strategies that make the process easier. And the truth is, Everett has become such a strong self-advocate at just six years old. He knows he cannot take any food that hasn’t been approved by us specifically, and that confidence helps both of us breathe easier.

Here are 5 tips that have helped our family keep playdates safe, manageable, and fun.

1. Start With a Conversation

• Before the playdate, reach out to the other parent. A simple, friendly message goes a long way:

• “Hey, just wanted to give you a heads-up — my child has food allergies. I’ll send safe snacks and EpiPens, so it’s no extra work for you.”

• This sets the tone: you’re not asking them to manage everything, you’re partnering with them.

2. Pack Safe Snacks

The easiest way to reduce risk is to send food along. I usually pack enough for both kids — that way there’s no “oh, I can’t eat that” moment.

• Some of our favorites:

• Safe granola bars

• Fruit + veggie pouches

• Popcorn or pretzels

• Homemade muffins or cookies (allergy-friendly, of course)

It takes pressure off the host and helps your child feel included.

3. Go Over the Basics Together

When you drop off, take 2 minutes to cover the essentials:

• What the allergies are

• Where the EpiPen is

• How to reach you quickly

• Most parents appreciate the clarity — it makes them feel more confident, not less.

4. Choose Low-Food Activities

Playdates don’t have to revolve around snacks. Suggest fun, food-free activities like:

• Building Legos

• Riding bikes

• Playing outside

• Doing crafts or puzzles

If food does come up, your pre-packed snacks are ready to go.

5. Build Your Child’s Confidence

This is the piece that gets easier over time. Before the playdate, we always remind Everett:

• Never take food unless it comes directly from us.

• He knows where his EpiPen is.

• He can always call us if he feels unsure.

At just six, he’s already a great self-advocate — and that makes playdates not only safer, but a chance for him to practice independence in a safe way.

✨ Final Thought

The first playdate with food allergies can feel like a huge milestone. It’s normal to hover (trust me, I’ve been that parent walking up the street every ten minutes 🙋‍♀️), but with a little planning — safe snacks, clear communication, and a confident kid — playdates can be just as fun and memory-making as they’re meant to be.

Here’s to making allergy life a little simpler, one day at a time.

- Your Everyday Allergy Mom