How To Help Children Manage Seasonal Allergies

After Outside Routine

As soon as the warm weather arrives, it’s natural (and overall beneficial!) for children to spend time outdoors. However, this can cause a lot of problems for little ones prone to allergies. Develop a non-negotiable “after outside routine”; have children remove their shoes at the door or in the mudroom, take a shower and put on clean clothes immediately. Outdoor clothes should be worn only outside during this time of year.

Keep Their Space Clean

Ask staff to vacuum more frequently this time of year, keep windows closed, check HVAC and air purifier filters, and wash children’s clothes after every wear using fragrance-free, hypoallergenic detergents. You might consider adding HEPA air filters to your child’s room, using hypoallergenic bedding and mattress covers, and removing rugs or curtains that trap allergens.

Be Mindful of Pets

Pets can often bring in pollen without us realizing it. Brush or wash animals that spend a good deal of time outside or make rules about where in the home they can go. Never let a pet that spends time outside sleep with your allergy-prone child. If not part of your regular routine, you might consider adding regular professional pet grooming during allergy season.

Wear a Mask as Needed

For children with serious seasonal allergies, it might be wise for them to wear a mask on particularly windy or dry days.

Use Medication and Talk to Your Child’s Doctor

Buy child-safe allergy medication and have it on hand at all times. Speak with your doctor about whether your child should be taking something preemptively every day or only in the case of a reaction.