There are special considerations for kids with food allergy to stay healthy and safe. We’ve created a new guide for caregivers to fill the gap.
Through research and insight from the community, we’ve learned that many parents with children newly diagnosed with food allergy find it challenging to trust caregivers to manage this medical condition due to a lack of understanding. These parents have expressed the need for a resource just for caregivers that explains what food allergy is, how to avoid having an allergic reaction, and what to do in case one happens.
Our new Caring for a child with food allergy guide fills this gap. It’s very visual, making it easy to follow along. It includes four main sections:
- Understand it. — personalized information about what a child is allergic to
- Prevent it. — how to minimize the risks of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
- Know it. — identifies the signs and symptoms of a reaction
- Treat it. — know how to treat a reaction
The guide is for grandparents, babysitters, coaches, summer camp counsellors, and others who provide care for kids with food allergy. It will come in handy whether your child is going to grandma’s house, playing on a sports team, attending summer camp, or taking part in other activities in which they are being looked after by someone else.
Learn more about food allergy at foodallergycanada.ca and download the guide at foodallergycanada.ca/careguide or allergiesalimentairescanada.ca/guidedesoins (French).
Planning ahead for camp: for parents of children with food allergy
If you’re still deciding on allergy-friendly options for summer camp, ask for recommendations from others and visit camp websites. Speak to the camp director to find out how they accommodate children with food allergy. Ask:
Is there a written food allergy and anaphylaxis policy, and how is it implemented
How are allergic reactions handled
Do campers carry their epinephrine auto-injectors, and where are backup devices located
Do campers bring their food, is food prepared on-site, and is there an allergen risk management plan
Which staff are trained on how to avoid food allergens, recognize the symptoms of anaphylaxis, and administer epinephrine auto-injectors
Be sure to give staff a copy of the “Caring for a child with food allergy” guide. With some planning and preparation, your child can have a safe and happy time at camp. Visit foodallergycanada.ca/camp for more tips, including how to prepare for the first day of camp.
