Managing Food Allergies at Summer Sports and Activities
Summer is all about sunshine, movement, and making memories — from soccer practice and swim lessons to dance camps and neighborhood kickball games. For kids with food allergies, these activities can still be fun and full of connection — especially when parents and caregivers are prepared.
With the right plan in place, your child can safely join in on all the action. Here are some simple ways to support their safety and their confidence this season.
1. Start with a Conversation
Once your child is signed up for a sport or summer activity, reach out to the coach, team parent, or camp leader to talk about your child’s food allergies. Clear, proactive communication makes a huge difference.
You might want to share:
- What your child is allergic to
- Whether they carry an epinephrine device or other medications
- Your plan for snacks or safe treats
- Emergency contact info and next steps if a reaction occurs
For longer or drop-off activities, it helps to have a written care plan. You can use our guide: 👉 Building a Food Allergy Action Plan for Your Family
2. Pack Safe, Energizing Snacks
Many activities include snack breaks or post-game treats — and being prepared helps ensure your child always has something delicious and safe.
Ideas to pack:
- Free2b Chocolate Sun Cups or Mini Cups
- Fresh fruit or veggies with a safe dip
- Crunchsters for a crunchy, protein-packed snack
- Nacho Average Apple Treat — a fun, energy-boosting snack made with apple slices, chocolate, sunflower butter drizzle, and crunchy toppings
Bonus: Pack a few extra safe snacks to offer the group — it’s a great way to promote inclusion and spread awareness about allergy friendly options.
3. Help Your Child Speak Up
Summer activities offer great opportunities to build independence and self-advocacy. With a little guidance, your child can learn to navigate food allergy situations with confidence.
Start by practicing:
- How to say, “No thank you, I have a food allergy.”
- When to ask an adult about ingredients
- What to do if they’re unsure about a snack or meal
Looking for more support? Check out our article 👉 Building Confidence in Kids with Food Allergies: Empowering Independence
4. Suggest Allergy Friendly Snacks for the Team
If you're involved with a team snack schedule or parent group, offer to suggest or bring snacks that are safe and inclusive. A few ideas that are often allergy friendly:
- Fruit kabobs or individual applesauce pouches
- Popcorn (if safe for your child and others)
- Individually wrapped Free2b Chocolate Sunflower Butter Sun Cups
- DIY build-your-own trail mix with safe ingredients
Consider creating a Safe Snack Box that stays with the coach or team — it's a great backup plan if unexpected treats show up.
5. Celebrate Safely
Team pizza parties or end-of-season celebrations can be fun — and safe — with a little preparation.
- Ask the organizer about the food ahead of time
- Send your child with a safe dessert or treat they’re excited about
- Offer to bring a dish or dessert that everyone can enjoy
These moments are about more than just food — they’re about memories. With a little planning, your child won’t miss a thing.
Final Thoughts
Food allergies shouldn’t sideline your child’s summer. With clear communication, a stash of safe snacks, and a few empowering tools, your child can jump into all the sports, games, and giggles the season has to offer.
Need allergy friendly treats that fuel the fun? Free2b treats are made in a dedicated facility free from the top 9 allergens — plus corn, mustard, and sulfites — so your family can enjoy safe and joyful moments all summer long.