If you’re about to start weaning, hosting playdates, or navigating life with little ones, chances are allergies have crossed your mind. And if they haven’t yet… they probably will.

At Mini First Aid, we’re often asked about allergies and anaphylaxis in children - especially in our Mini First Aid classes - and it’s easy to see why. It can feel overwhelming, confusing, and (let’s be honest) a little bit scary.

That’s why we’re proud to be an official charity partner of Allergy UK. Our updated 2-hour Baby & Child class now includes essential guidance on allergies and anaphylaxis, giving parents and carers the confidence to recognise reactions early and act quickly if needed. This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to keeping little ones safe, informed, and supported.

So let’s break it all down in a calm, practical way - with expert insight and plenty of reassurance along the way.



What is an allergy (and what is anaphylaxis)?

Let’s start simple.

An allergy is when the body’s immune system reacts to something that should be harmless - like milk, peanuts or pollen.

Symptoms can include:

  • A rash (often raised, like nettle stings)
  • Swelling (lips, eyes, face)
  • Sneezing or itchiness
  • Tummy pain, vomiting or diarrhoea

Anaphylaxis, on the other hand, is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that affects the whole body.

In the UK, we look for ABC symptoms:

  • Airway – coughing, hoarse voice, tongue swelling
  • Breathing – wheezing, struggling to breathe
  • Circulation – dizziness, pale, floppy, collapse

If you ever suspect anaphylaxis, call 999 immediately and use an adrenaline auto-injector if available.

You can also learn exactly what to do in our first aid classes.

 

Are allergies becoming more common?

In short: yes.

Research suggests food allergies have increased significantly over the past 10 years, and cases of anaphylaxis have also risen.

But here’s the reassuring part:

Fatal allergic reactions are still very rare - and becoming even rarer.

 

Can a first reaction be severe?

This is one of the biggest myths we hear in our classes.

❌ “It starts mild and gets worse each time”
❌ “You can’t have anaphylaxis on first exposure”

✅ Both are untrue

A severe reaction can happen the first time, and reactions don’t always follow a pattern.

 

When do allergies develop in babies?

Another common question: Are babies born with allergies?

The answer is no.

Allergies develop over time, and often appear:

  • Around weaning
  • Around 2–3 months for delayed allergies

If you’re starting weaning, you might find our blog on what foods we should avoid when weaning helpful alongside this guide.

What are the most common food allergies in children?

In the UK, the most common ones we see are:

  • Milk
  • Egg
  • Peanuts
  • Tree nuts
  • Sesame
  • Fish

 

Weaning & allergies: should parents be worried?

We get it - this can feel like a really anxious time.

You’re giving your baby something new and wondering: “What if they react?”

Here’s the key reassurance:

Weaning is actually the safest time to introduce allergens.

In fact, early introduction can:

  • Reduce the risk of developing allergies
  • Support a healthy gut

 

What should I do if my child has a reaction?

If symptoms are mild (like a rash):

  • Stay calm
  • Monitor closely
  • Seek advice from your GP

If symptoms suggest anaphylaxis:

  • Call 999
  • Use an adrenaline auto-injector if available

 

Getting a diagnosis: what to expect

If you suspect an allergy, your GP may refer you to a specialist.

Testing usually involves:

  • Skin prick tests
  • Blood tests

 

Are home allergy tests reliable?

Short answer: be cautious

For children especially, always seek professional advice before testing.

 

Will my child grow out of their allergy?

Often, yes.

  • Milk & egg: 60–70% outgrown
  • Nuts & sesame: around 20%

 

Living well with allergies (this is the big one)

This is what we really want every parent to take away:

Allergies are not a life sentence.

With the right knowledge, you can still:

  • Go on holidays
  • Eat out
  • Have playdates


Final thoughts

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you are absolutely not alone.

Allergies can feel like a lot - but with the right support and information, they become just one small part of your child’s story.

And remember:

  • Trust your instincts
  • Ask questions
  • Don’t be afraid to seek a second opinion

You’ve got this.

 

We know allergies can feel like a lot - especially when you’re trying to do your best for your child. But with the right knowledge and support, they don’t have to hold your family back.

For trusted, expert-backed advice, we always recommend taking a look at Allergy UK. They offer brilliant resources, practical tips and guidance to help you understand triggers, manage reactions and feel more confident navigating everyday life with allergies. https://www.allergyuk.org/support-for-you/living-with-an-allergy/


Listen to this episode of the Family Health by Mini First Aid podcast with Dr Helen Allergy – available on all major platforms, or watch on YouTube.


And if you’d like to feel even more prepared, why not join one of our 2-hour Parent & Carer classes? With support from Allergy UK, our 2-hour Parent & Carer class has been updated and now includes essential guidance on allergies and anaphylaxis, giving parents and carers the confidence to recognise reactions early and act quickly if needed. This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to keeping little ones safe, informed, and supported.