Peanut and other Allergies in Toddlers

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It can be a challenge when a toddler has an allergy. Take all the steps you can to protect your little one.
Keep your child away from triggers
You should do all you can to keep your child away from the triggers that cause his or her allergies, especially if it is a food allergy. Make sure that everyone who might be watching the child knows and understands about the allergy.
If your child has a severe food allergy, then it is important not only to keep the child away from that specific food, but also other foods that may have traces of the allergen or even were made in the same facility in which the allergen was processed. For instance, if your child has a peanut allergy, look at the allergy warnings and do not buy the product if it says it was made with shared equipment. Read through every ingredient.
Make sure that you greatly control who can feed the toddler. Especially if the toddler goes to a preschool, make sure that they understand his or her issues. You can send in your own food for the child.
If the allergies are to an animal or if they are seasonal allergies, try your best to keep your child away from them. Obviously you cannot stop your child from leaving the house, but you can avoid homes with cats and specific plants.
Make your toddler aware of the problem
Depending on your toddler and his or her age, he or she might understand little to nothing about the allergy. Still, you can tell him or her that he or she has an allergy. You can tell your child never to accept food from anyone that is not you.
Always bring your medication
Always bring the necessary medication for a toddler, especially if he or she has a severe allergy or an allergy with the propensity to cause a severe reaction, such as a peanut allergy. You may bring Benadryl or another over the counter medicine. If the child requires an Epipen, then bring that as well.
Make sure to keep these medications out of the child’s reach; they will cause more harm than good if the child helps himself or herself. Also, make sure that you know the proper medications and dosages to give as recommended by your pediatrician for your child’s age and weight.
Miscellaneous strategies
There are miscellaneous strategies that can be useful in protecting your child, depending on the exact allergy. You can buy a medical bracelet that highlights the allergy. If your child has allergies to pollen, then shower him or her when you come back in. Keep the house clean of dust if the allergy is to dust mites.
If you have any questions about your child’s specific allergies, talk to your pediatrician or an allergist. The American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology suggests finding someone whom they certify. He or she can create a specific plan to best protect your child.