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Hi Everyone!

I would like your opinion regarding a child with Celiac Disease.

In the situation that children are being invited to birthday parties and to 
friends houses, etc...  Do you think (in the child's best interest) that it is 
better to:

1.  Openly explain to others that he/she has Celiac Disease?  And explain that 
he/she cannot eat certain foods (and why he/she will come prepared with 
their own food)?

OR

2.  Protect the child's privacy and just explain that the child has "food 
allergies" and will need to bring their own food.  (Because the fact that he/she 
has Celiac Disease is no one's business).


The reason I'm asking is because I know kids can be cruel.  I'm worried about 
a few years from now when the other kids could start making fun of her for 
having Celiac Disease.  

I currently find myself explaining to every mother that hosts a birthday party 
that my 4 year old child has Celiac Disease and we will need to bring special 
food.  Am I doing the right thing?

Also, when she goes to Kindergarten/Elementary School - how will the 
teachers treat this?  Are they obliged to keep her condition confidential or will 
they let everyone know anyway?

Regards,
Laura

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