Birthday Cake Banned!
While I don’t like the headline, I applaud the district for complying with their districts Wellness policy, something many districts around the country are choosing to ignore. Several Universities are now monitoring districts to see if they are following their own policy. Sooner or later, those who turn a blind eye to the cupcakes will lose federal funds.
When schools comply with the Wellness policy, they are automatically creating a more inclusive and safer environment for children with food allergies, celiac disease, diabetes as well as those on restricted or gluten and casein free diets. With one quarter of our children overweight or obese and the number of kids with autism, celiac, diabetes and food allergies growing, it’s time to save the parties for at home. Let’s get creative moms!
If you need ideas, here are 33 Food Free Ways to Celebrate And here are 101 Non-edible Treats!
Birthday Cake Banned in Arlington Heights Schools
“The Arlington Heights Elementary School District 25 school board has banned birthday cakes and cupcakes next year as part of a new wellness policy.
“There will be celebrations,” Jerome said. “Maybe the child will be the principal for a day, or pick out a special book or lead the class line to the cafeteria.”
“In September 2006, Arlington Heights resident Denis Jones complained to the board and district officials that some food items contained peanuts even though the District 25 policy prohibited food containing peanuts.
Jones’ son has a severe allergy to peanuts. For months, he found cafeteria food labels containing peanuts.
Turns out, he was right.”
May 29, 2008 @ 9:36 pm
Well, it really is the best idea not to have it at all. It could ultimately save lives. It is not educational for those who don’t know about allergies, etc, however, it is the best way to go.
June 8, 2008 @ 11:25 pm
As the mom of a little boy who is severely allergic to eggs I think it’s a great idea. I send my child to school everyday and I must trust that the teachers do everything in their power to keep my son healthy, safe and alive.
June 22, 2008 @ 4:08 pm
I run a bakery in Fuquay Varina, NC and make several cakes for the school each year. For these cakes we use sugar free, no eggs or peanuts. We substitute sugar with splenda and hand make the frosting. The kids love it all the same. I am with you on using baking sense, but not for banning my healthy birthday cakes or burning books.