Navigating Life with Childhood Allergies: A Message from Kara, VP of Placements

Hi everyone,

I’m Kara, VP of Placements at Triangle Nannies, but more importantly, I’m Nina Rose’s mom. For the past 6.5 years, allergies have been a part of our everyday life. Not just the kind you sneeze at… but the severe, life-threatening kind that can turn an ordinary day into an emergency in seconds.

While it’s been a journey full of learning, adapting, and advocating, it’s also been one filled with love, resilience, and a lot of planning. I want to share some personal tips, tricks, and reminders that have helped my family navigate this world safely, and hopefully offer some support to other families walking this path.

🌼 Always Carry a Backup (or Two)

Peace of mind starts with preparation. We always have backup epipens: one in my bag, one at home, one at school, anywhere Nina might be. I also keep Benadryl on hand for milder reactions. Knowing that you have these tools close at hand can make the difference between panic and calm in a stressful moment.

🌼 Plan Ahead for Safe Experiences

Before heading to a new restaurant, birthday party, or play space, I make a plan. Sometimes I’ll call ahead or even stop by first to check if it’s safe regarding cross-contamination. There’s nothing more heartbreaking than watching your child’s excitement fade because a place or experience isn’t safe. A little extra planning helps avoid those moments.

‍🌼 Keep a Safe Treat Ready

Kids want to feel included! And a surprise unsafe treat can easily leave them feeling left out. I always keep a safe snack or treat in my purse so that Nina has something she can enjoy, no matter what pops up. It’s a small action that keeps her part of the fun.

🌼 Make the Pantry Kid-Safe

We’ve set up our kitchen so Nina can safely grab her own snacks and feel independent. If we do keep items she can’t have, they’re stored high up, out of sight and out of reach. Creating a safe space empowers your child while protecting them.

🌼 Teach Advocacy Early

As soon as your child can speak, practice having them say, “I have a peanut allergy” (or whatever applies). We rehearse this at restaurants, birthday parties, even Halloween. It builds awareness and gives both Nina and me confidence that she can help advocate for herself when I’m not right there beside her.

🌼 Learn to Read Labels Together

Once your child starts recognizing letters and words, involve them in reading labels. Show them where the ingredient list is and help them practice spotting words they need to avoid. It’s a skill that builds over time and helps keep them safe as they grow more independent.

🌼 Prioritize Clean Spaces

Wherever your child eats, make sure the space is wiped down thoroughly. We carry disposable placemats, wipes, and sanitizer everywhere — you’d be surprised how often sticky residue or crumbs linger. Whether it’s at a friend’s house, school cafeteria, or even the playground, a quick cleanup can make a big difference.

🌼 Communicate with Everyone

Your child, teachers, babysitters, friends’ parents — anyone who might care for your child needs to know the details of their allergies. It’s also important to teach your child not to accept food from anyone who doesn’t know them (and their allergies) well. We encourage Nina to bring everything home to check with us or a trusted adult before eating it.

🌼 Find Community

One of the best things we’ve done is connect with other families who are navigating allergies. Nina loves meeting other kids who have similar (or different) allergies. It reminds her she’s not alone, and it gives us a chance to share tips and support.

🌼 Offer Reassurance

Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, your child might feel left out. I always reassure Nina that if something isn’t safe, we’ll find something else that is. Talking through these moments helps remind her that she’s supported and never alone in this journey.

🌼 Embrace Differences

We talk often about how everyone has unique needs; some you can see, some you can’t. The most important thing is keeping each other safe and supporting one another. We use age-appropriate language to help Nina understand that while allergies are serious, they’re just one part of what makes her special and strong.

We’re All in This Together

If you’re a nanny, a parent, a caregiver,  part of our Triangle Nannies family, know that you’re part of a community that’s here to support you. We celebrate every child’s unique needs and work together to keep them safe, happy, and thriving.

From my family to yours — stay strong, stay prepared, and never forget that you’re not alone on this path.

With love,
Kara 💛
VP of Placements, Triangle Nannies & Household Staffing

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