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Do you feel nervous when looking after children with peanut Allergies?

About 3 months ago, I was told that one of the children in my care had a peanut allergy. I told the Mom that I would do the best I could, take the training, be as careful as I possibly could, but in the event she ever had a reaction in my care, I didn’t know if I could continue caring for the child after that. That a reaction would mean that despite my best efforts, my best intentions, I did something wrong, and I never want the feeling that something I did could have caused a serious reaction.

I was nervous at the beginning too, I’ve relaxed since then, but in the same vote probably are too careful sometimes.

If you are really really nervous about it, I would call the Mom and discuss it with her, I would think she would appreciate you being upfront about it — after all, she and you just want what is best for the child.

Uncertainty should set off alarm bells - you need to find as much information as possible. The two children I care for know their allergies, have been tested and re-tested in follow-up appointments, have had specific steps that need to be taken in the event of a reaction outlined by their doctors, the moms are really well-informed, have given me lists to foods that are safe, have provided me with food items for their children from time to time when we are having other treats here, etc. I feel very much like we are partners in keeping the environment safe for their kids, and I know from personal things the Moms have done for me, from sending me flowers to supporting me through a difficult time last year with a family matter, that they value the steps I take her to keep their children safe.

Having said all that, once the youngest is off to full-time school in 2 more years, I will be very ready to care for hopefully non-allergic children once again! The odd peanut butter sandwich would be very nice for lunch one day!