School Snacks and Crafts

What this lesson covers

Ask about the whole school day. Food safety questions can include snack, lunch, classroom parties, cooking activities, and field trips. Ask the adults who plan those activities how they will support your child, and get the answers in writing if you can.

Watch for wheat-based materials. Some craft dough, pasta projects, and baking activities use wheat. Ask whether the materials could be swallowed or get onto hands before eating, and follow the school or care plan for that activity.

Keep a familiar option nearby. A labeled snack or a safe activity alternative helps your child participate without having to decide under pressure in front of classmates.

It also helps to ask about the calendar, not just the classroom. Birthday celebrations, holiday parties, cooking units, and field trips are the days when food and materials show up without warning. Ask the teacher to send a short heads-up before those activities so you have time to send a safe alternative. For crafts, a simple swap often solves the problem — play dough can be made with gluten-free flour, and pasta art can use rice noodles. If a material could end up on hands or in mouths, ask about handwashing before snack and about a substitute activity. A few minutes of planning ahead keeps your child in the middle of the fun instead of on the sidelines.