The transition to nursery can be stressful for parents, not to mention there are worries on health and safety when it comes to allergies and dietary requirements.
At Cherubs Nurseries, we strictly ensure our Educators are knowledgeable on the matter. As allergies develop between one to two years old, our Educators can help identify a possible intolerance/allergy and suggest whether a child would benefit from seeing a doctor. An allergic reaction can have serious consequences and intolerances should not be ignored.
Common food allergies according to the NHS can include:
- Milk & eggs (children can grow out of these allergies)
- A range of nuts
- Fish & shellfish
Others:
- Dust
- Insect bites/stings
- Tree, grass pollen (hay fever)
- Animal fur, presence (particularly dogs and cats)
- Natural materials (rubber, silicone, latex, metal, plants)
- Certain medicines
Intolerances are more common with symptoms appearing slower after touching/consuming a substance. Symptoms can include bloating, stomach cramps and discomfort.
At Cherubs Nurseries, we use Blossom Educational Software. This gives parents a daily diary for their child, accessible is dietary/allergy information and reports. Our educators can clearly see and filter allergies and additional requirements for each child to keep track.
Please communicate regularly with your child’s key person to discuss any dietary or allergy related concerns.
At Cherubs Nurseries, staff are required to undertake regular training courses to stay up-to-date with guidelines and advice.
Our Chef’s and Seniors have recently signed up for ‘Natasha’s Law Allergen Training.’ This came into force in October 2021, it covers allergens and the importance of labelling the preparation of food in settings where they are not pre-packaged.
All of our staff complete a course called ‘Providing a Healthy Food Environment in Early Years Settings’ as well as our Chef’s and kitchen staff completing an in depth ‘Food Hygiene and Safety’ course.
As a childcare provider it is of high importance to have procedures in place to minimise the risks. We respect parents/carers wishes and adapt menu’s accordingly. We have procedures in place for activity involvement and our Chef’s cater for and monitor special diets.
Every child will be different, some allergy reactions range from mild to severe, but this doesn’t dismiss the severity of a reaction. At Cherubs we:
- Identify children with allergies/dietary requirements on enrolment
- Work closely with our parents/carers
- Use of Blossom Educational to keep a diary of your child’s day and meals
- Triggers and the procedure in the case of an emergency and medication needed
- Keeping our Educators informed and trained in allergen avoidance, early recognition and crisis management
- Hand washing is encouraged before and after meals and snacks
- Regular cleaning of surfaces
Resources
How to potty train – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Potty training: how to start & best age to potty train – ERIC
