Summer is coming and everyone is making plans. For families managing food allergies or insect allergies, planning for summer takes additional steps. Here are some tips for finding the right summer camp — or family camping experience — and staying safe.
Summer camp – in 5 steps
Step 1: Research. Check out the camp’s existing policies on anaphylaxis and food allergies. An online policy indicates that they have some experience with food allergies, which can be very helpful.
Step 2: Make personal contact. Talk to the Director (in person if possible) about your child’s allergies and allergy plan, and ask whether the counselors are trained in emergency care for allergic reactions. First impressions matter: the Director should be focused and listening to you (without distractions).
Step 3: Communicate. Once you have chosen a camp, talk with your child about it. Let your child know you are confident that they can manage their allergies. But also remind your child that they won’t be “in trouble” if a mistake happens, and should always let an adult know if they feel unwell.
Step 4: Have an Anaphylaxis Plan. Create an Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan and share it with the camp in advance.
Step 5: Follow up. If you can, drop by to meet the camp counselors so that you can introduce your child and answer any questions. Our Educator Resources page is a great place for them to learn more.
Sleepaway camp – some considerations
As with day camps, sleepaway camp can be a fun and safe experience for a child with food allergies. As you prepare, use the 5 Steps above, but also consider the following:
- Visiting the camp with your child can help you make a decision and also help your child feel ready and prepared. Encourage your child to ask questions and be the point person as much as they are able.
- Some kids may be more prone to risk-taking behavior, especially if it is their first time away from home. Talk to your child about this in a non-judgmental way. Express confidence in your child’s judgment and stay open to any questions they may have for you.
- Find out if there is a nurse on site, and/or what kind of allergy awareness training staff receive. Bring along an EpiPen training device for staff to refresh their skills, and print and share information and resources with them.
Remember that “peanut free” doesn’t mean risk-free. Communicate with staff about label reading and other precautions, and ensure your child’s Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan is onsite. Make sure your child carries his or her EpiPen and that all staff know how to use it.
Family camping – a great adventure
Some families prefer to camp together or with extended family rather than send their kids to camp. “Camping is a way for our family to reconnect after the school year ends,” says Jenna C., a mom of a 7-year-old with multiple food allergies. “We love it.”
When camping, Jenna’s family takes precautions that are familiar to anyone living with food allergies: they bring their own food, read labels when invited to share food, always carry their EpiPens and stay allergy-aware. They also make one change from their normal life in the city. “My husband and I don’t eat or use any of her allergens while we’re camping.” says Jenna. “It’s simpler that way.”
If you have mixed feelings about not sending your child to summer camp, remember that there are millions of families that choose other options for their summer. Pick your adventure and go for it!
Stinging insects – precautions
Bees, yellow jackets and other stinging insects often hover near lunch tables or dining halls, especially when sugary drinks or fruit are being consumed. Talk to summer camp staff about their preparedness and share tips with them on how to avoid stinging insects.
Your child should always carry their epinephrine and be prepared to use it. Epinephrine is the only way to counteract anaphylaxis – not antihistamines. If someone gets stung, the EpiPen should be used right away, then call 911.
Managing asthma
“One important thing is to make sure asthma is under good control before going on a trip or heading off to camp,” says the staff at the Children’s Allergy and Asthma Education Centre (CAAEC). “Also consider what triggers may be in the environment, such as campfire smoke, pollen from trees, grass and weeds, pets or horses; and mould.”
If your child is going to sleepaway camp, discuss their triggers with the camp director or staff. Medicines should be labeled with child’s name and dose, and you should review all information with your child as well as staff. Provide an Asthma Action Plan as well.
Hot fun in the summertime
With the right planning, summer camp and family camping can be a fun and safe experience. As more and more camps become allergy-aware, we want to say thanks to parents like you, for all that you do to raise awareness and educate about food allergies.
From all of us at Food Allergy Canada, have a wonderful summer!
More Resources
- From our WhyRiskIt? Website: Teens blog about summer camp and food allergies
- An online handbook for parents: The Newly Diagnosed Support Centre
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Tags: camping, day camp, summer camp