#158 - Managing Food Allergy Anxiety in Kids

Food allergy anxiety in kids is real, and it does not always look like fear. It can show up as tantrums, clinginess, control-seeking behaviors, or a child who refuses to eat at a restaurant. Child life specialist and therapist Kelsey Mora joins Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta to unpack what is really going on.  What we cover in our episode about managing anxiety in kids Food allergy anxiety does not always look like anxiety. Tantrums, clinginess, and control-seeking behaviors can all be signs that a child is struggling. Language matters from the start. How parents explain food allergies to young children can build confidence or quietly reinforce fear. Separation anxiety and food allergies are connected. Dependence on parents can make it harder for kids to navigate school, parties, and social situations on their own. Practicing independence at home builds real-world skills. Exposure to allergens in a safe home environment teaches confidence and communication skills kids need everywhere else. Passing parental anxiety onto kids. Co-regulation starts with the caregiver, when parents are anxious, kids have a harder time calming down. Helpful resources Food allergy anxiety information from Allergy & Asthma Network Kelsey's practice and services: childlifetherapist.com  Kelsey's workbooks and resources: themethodworkbooks.com  *********** Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Genentech and Kaléo for sponsoring today’s episode.  This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.