Visiting friends and family or taking part in activities means that your child may not always be with you. As they grow older, you will need help from others to keep your child safe. It is normal to feel anxious and worried about putting your child's safety in someone else's hands. By following some basic safety measures and teaching others about your child's allergy, you can keep them safe.

Make sure the adults in charge are aware of your child's allergy and how serious it is. Whether your child goes to a sports activity, birthday party, takes piano lessons or goes to a friend's house, meet with the coach, teacher or parent. Show them how to use your child's auto-injector and what steps they can take to avoid an allergic reaction. Go over your child's Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan so they feel comfortable with all procedures.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Ask if the adults in charge are comfortable looking after your child. Offer to stay during the activity to help if they are not confident.
• Review the ingredients of all foods being served at the party -  whether at home or a restaurant - including treats given out for game prizes and in loot bags.
• Prepare your child for the disappoinment of not being able to eat all of the same things as other kids. Stay positive and remind your child of all the things they can have. Prepare safe snacks (e.g. cupcakes and treats) which they can take to the party if needed.
• Provide emergency contact numbers.

Don't forget these important safety measures:

• Make sure your child has an auto-injector such as an EpiPen® or Twinject® with them at all times. Children are generally mature enough by Grade 1 to carry their own auto-injectors. Carry an extra auto-injector with you (or give to the caregiver). See our product catalogue for more information on trainers and carrying cases.
• Teach your child not to eat any food without checking with you first. They should only eat food brought from home unless it is packaged, clearly labelled and approved by you.
• Have your child wear medical identification such as a MedicAlert® bracelet.