Allergy and malabsorption

[Guest guest]

My kids had their first accidental gluten exposure at music class

yesterday. A little girl in the class made cookies for the teacher and

she shared and for some reason trusted my 4 year old when she said they

could have them. I explaied that in the future could she just let

know that her cookies are at home and mommy will get them as

soon as they get there. I was not annoyed as these things will happen

but it is crazy, in this overstuffing American society, that people feel

the need to feed your kid in these 45 minute classes that are scheduled

right after breakfast. Of all the places I thought we'd have this happen

music class was not one of them. Still, I simply asked if she knew if

food would be coming in in the future to please let me know so I could

have a sub ready. I did not want to talk further about it as what was

done was done and it is bad enough my daughter (who is more aware) can't

have stuff. I am trying to just always have tasty alternatives around,

eat what she eats, engage her in the baking and shopping (which she

loves) and keep it positive so I can minimize the deprivation factor.

Anyway, later the teacher calls me. We are friendly and plan on seeing

each other socially. She is a doll and had a bad day where another kid

left the class unattended. She was upset about the dietary infraction

and called to apologize which was very sweet. We got to talking and it

turns out the little girl gave the cookies because she has very severe

and numerous allergies and made them with her mom but could not eat

them. This girl is very tiny and looks about 4 to me, has thin hair and

glasses. The class is for 3-5 year olds. I was stunned when the teacher

informed me she was 7. I guess this is the kid docs are thinking of when

they look for malabsorption and why, despite my good intel and what I

now know to be obvious signs in hindsight, it was not obvious. It also

may be why the docs still think I am nuts. I am grateful for what our

deal is. It is indeed easier than what so many have. Sara obviously has

other delays to be in this class. According to the teacher she is on her

way though and doing very well. I believe that. She is a bright little

girl just waiting to shine.