Guest Writer: Living Through my Dreams, LLC

“Don’t put that in your mouth, it’s yucky!” It’s a phrase I often say during my 60-minute play therapy sessions with kiddos. Sometimes, they listen—most times, they don’t. Imagine the stakes, though, when you’re saying it to a child with a gluten allergy. For these children, the consequences of accidental ingestion can be far more serious than just a few germs.  

“Don’t put that in your mouth, it’s yucky!”

As caregivers, parents, and professionals, we have a grave responsibility of ensuring all children are safe. But when caring for little ones with gluten sensitivities, that responsibility doubles. It’s not just about the food they eat; it’s about the toys they play with and the hidden sources of gluten that sneak into their daily lives.  

Gluten-Free Play Matters  

Little ones—especially toddlers and preschoolers—are notorious for exploring the world with their mouths. As someone in the field, I’ve seen on numerous occasions; kids nibbling on crayons, chewing on toys, or even sampling playdough. In some cases, this behavior can be related to pica- a condition where children eat non-food items, but often, it’s just curiosity. 

When it comes to playdough, the risk is twofold: 

• Accidental Ingestion: Even if kids aren’t outright eating it, tiny bits can easily end up in their mouths during play. 
• Cross-Contamination: Gluten doesn’t stay confined. It can transfer from playdough to hands, toys, furniture, and even back into the kitchen, creating a chain reaction of exposure. 
• Skin Reactions: For some children, even touching gluten-containing products can cause irritation or rashes. 

But don’t worry—there’s no need to panic! There are plenty of gluten-free alternatives that are just as fun and safe for little ones. 

Safe and Fun Gluten-Free Alternatives 

1. Gluten-Free Playdough:  Many brands now offer gluten-free playdough that mimic the texture and versatility of traditional versions of play-dough. These are perfect for families looking for an easy, ready-made option. (Check out the link to recommended brands!) 

2. DIY Gluten-Free Playdough: Making your own playdough is surprisingly simple and cost-effective! All you need is a gluten-free flour blend, salt, water, and oil. Add a few drops of food coloring and you’re good to go! 

3. Cloud Dough: Soft, crumbly, and moldable, cloud dough is a sensory favorite. Combine gluten-free flour with baby oil to create a texture similar to kinetic sand. 

4. Oobleck: A science experiment disguised as play! Mix cornstarch and water to create a substance that’s both solid and liquid. It’s an intreging for kids and completely gluten-free.

5. Homemade Slime: Slime is always a hit. Just ensure the glue you’re using is gluten-free (yes, some brands contain gluten). Add food coloring, glitter, or small toys for extra fun. 

6. Moon Sand:  Another fun option is moon sand. Made with gluten-free flour and oil, it’s soft, moldable, and endlessly entertaining. 

Playtime Should Be Safe and Fun 

As caregivers and professionals, we want to always mindful of what our kids eat. But it’s just as important to pay attention to what they play with. Creating a safe, gluten-free play environment doesn’t mean sacrificing fun—it simply means being informed and prepared.  

What are your favorite gluten-free playtime activities? Have you tried any of the ideas above? I’d love to hear your thoughts and tips in the comments below.  

Here’s to happy, healthy, and gluten-free playtime! 

About Living Through My Dreams, LLC

Living Through My Dreams, LLC is a home care agency offering in-home occupational, play, and speech therapy to children and families. Founded in 2019, their mission is to provide quality care.

The information shared here regarding our gluten-free lifestyle is based solely on our family’s experiences and should not be interpreted as representative of anyone else’s journey.