From overnight camp to a trip to the park to days outside at the cottage — Summer brings a world of fun and also some unexpected surprises. These 5 Tips to Prepare for Unexpected Allergic Reactions might make your summer a little easier….
Disclosure: I have partnered with YMC and Benadryl and have received compensation for this post. All opinions are my own.
5 Tips For Parents To Prepare for Unexpected Allergic Reactions
1) Things to pack in first aid kit for car/camp/bag. Prepare for the unexpected by packing a first aid kit. You can use a resealable bag, container or makeup bag. My to-go-first-aid-kit (and yes, I have one) contains: travel pouch of flush-able wipes (good for wiping hands), band aids, antiseptic/pain relief spray, Benadryl Itch Stick, and a lollypop (for distraction – more on that below).
2) Reaction types to unexpected allergic reactions. Reactions differ between children. Should the reactions be violent or concerning — seek medical attention immediately. Mild to moderate reactions may include: itchy, watery eyes, runny noses, stuffy noses, sneezing, and/or hives.
3) Possible environmental culprits. Dust mites, pet dander, grass, pollen, mold, insect bites, poison ivy, poison oak.
- Children’s Benadryl Liquid. Easy to dose and drink – it does not contain any dyes or alcohol.
- Children’s Benadryl Chewables – great for travel!
- Benadryl Itch Stick contains a topical antihistamine/?analgesic? and a skin protectant to provide fast, effective relief of itchiness and pain due to insect bites and stings. My daughter has used the itch stick many times as she gets hives from insect bites — and it works great!
- Benadryl Itch Spray – like the itch stick it contains a topical antihistamine/?analgesic? to help ease itchiness and pain due to allergic reactions.
- Benadryl Itch Cream – works like the itch stick and spray but in cream form.
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A food snack (like the lollypop I keep in my first aid kit) is a good sensory distraction from unexpected allergic reactions. Also, an enthusiastic game of eye spy or spot-the-*insert something to spot here* can be engaging distractions.
Sometimes, allergic reactions can have a physical result (pain, itchyness, redness). But there is also an emotional component — the FOMO effect (fear of missing out). Kids who have allergic reactions might be hesitant to go to the park because of reactions so they miss out on what they like. Parents can address both the physical and emotional ties to allergic reactions with proactive preparedness. Because summer is about getting outside and enjoying the moment.
That’s a great idea to keep an allergic reaction kit on you – you never know when you can experience something like a wasp sting! Unfortunately the only way you’ll know if you have a reaction is to get stung!