Early Childcare Provider

Early Childcare Provider

Anaphylaxis preparedness resources for early childcare providers.

Why Food Allergy Awareness and Preparedness Matter in Childcare Settings

Severe food allergies are a serious concern in early childcare settings:

  • One in 10 allergic reactions and anaphylaxis cases in children occur in childcare centers or schools
  • Up to one-third of all food allergic reactions in childcare centers occur in children with no prior diagnosis or when the food allergy is unknown to staff

While food allergies can appear at any age, they are most common in kids ages 1 to 5.

1 in 11 food allergies in 1-year olds.
1-year-olds: 1 in 11
1 in 10 food allergies in 2-year-olds.
2-year-olds: 1 in 10
1 in 12 food allergies in 3-to-5-year-olds
 3- to 5-year-olds: 1 in 12

Beyond Nut-Free: The Need for Comprehensive Food Allergy Safety

Restricting nuts in your childcare facility does not remove the risk of allergic reactions in young children, because other allergies are common. In fact, the most commonly diagnosed food allergies in children under five include milk, eggs and peanuts.

Pie chart showing 40% of children with food allergies are allergic to more than one food

40% of children with food allergies are allergic to more than one food

Pie chart showing 40% of children with food allergies are allergic to more than one food

40% of children with food allergies are allergic to more than one food

Pie chart showing up to 33% of all food allergic reactions in childcare centers occur in children with no prior diagnosis or when the food allergy is unknown to staff

Up to 33% of all food allergic reactions in childcare centers occur in children with no prior diagnosis or when the food allergy is unknown to staff

Young Children Have the Highest Prevalence of Anaphylaxis

Children aged 0 to 4 face the greatest rates of anaphylaxis, yet they often can’t communicate their symptoms, and symptoms can look different in infants and toddlers compared to older children.

Take Action to Help Protect the Children in Your Care

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