Springtime in Chicago means blooming flowers, warmer weather, and more time outdoors—but for many children, it also brings a wave of seasonal allergy symptoms. As a Family Nurse Practitioner at Little Steps Pediatric House Calls, I see firsthand how spring allergies can quickly turn beautiful days into sniffly, itchy, uncomfortable ones for little ones and their families.

The good news? With a few proactive steps, you can minimize your child’s exposure to allergens and keep symptoms under control.

A few smart strategies can make a big difference.

Smart Prevention Tips for Parents

Here’s how to reduce your child’s exposure to common allergens like pollen, dander and dust:

• Keep windows closed on high pollen days, both at home and in the car.

· Keep pets bathed and brushed to reduce the spread of outdoor allergens they may carry inside.

· Avoid drying laundry outdoors during peak pollen times, as fabric can collect allergens

• Use a HEPA air purifier in your child’s bedroom.

• Encourage kids to shower and change clothes after outdoor play to wash off pollen.

• Avoid contact with outdoor surfaces like cars or benches where pollen may settle.

• Vacuum and clean regularly to keep indoor allergens low.

Common Allergy Medications for Children

1. Always check with your healthcare provider and read the product label to ensure the medication is appropriate for your child’s age and weight, and never use adult formulations for children
2. For children under 2 years, avoid cough and cold products containing antihistamines or decongestants
3. Always check with your healthcare provider before starting medications, but here are commonly recommended options.

Antihistamines (for sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose):

• Loratadine (Claritin):
• Approved for ages 2 years and older.
• Non-sedating; check weight-based dosing for children under 6 years.
• Fexofenadine (Allegra):
• Approved for ages 6 months and older.
• Non-sedating; use only as directed for age and weight.
• Levocetirizine (Xyzal):
• Approved for ages 2 years and older.
• Non-sedating; check weight-based dosing for children under 6 years.
• Cetirizine (Zyrtec):
• Approved for ages 6 months and older.
• May cause drowsiness; use only as directed for age and weight.
• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl):
• Use with caution; not recommended for children under 2 years.
• Sedating; short-term use only; avoid in children under 2 years.

Nasal Corticosteroids (for congestion and inflammation):

• Fluticasone (Flonase):
• Approved for ages 4 years and older.
• Nasal spray; use as directed; may take several days for full effect.
• Triamcinolone (Nasacort):
• Approved for ages 2 years and older.
• Nasal spray; use as directed; may take several days for full effect.
• Mometasone (Nasonex):
• Approved for ages 2 years and older.
• Nasal spray; use as directed; may take several days for full effect.

Pro Tip

Start allergy medications early in the season before symptoms show up, for the best protection. Even if you're starting mid-season, it's still worth it! If your child has ongoing or severe symptoms, give Little Steps Pediatric House Calls a call, we’re happy to help and can discuss whether further testing is needed.

Need Help Managing Your Child’s Allergies?

At Little Steps Pediatric House Calls, we offer:
- In-home visits (perfect for busy families!)
- Virtual consultations
- Personalized care plans for allergy management
Serving families across the Chicago area, we’re here to help your child feel better, without the waiting room hassle.
Book a Visit Today!