Allergy Alert

Whenever you plan to use food, plants, or animals as a teaching tool, it is vitally important to alert parents. At the room's entrance, always post an allergy alert to notify parents about the planned activities.

Here is a free allergy alert poster that you can download and use anytime.
Allergy Alert Poster

Food Use food (in its natural state) as a teaching tool in the nature, homeliving, or puzzle learning centers. Avoid using plastic knives; they may break and become dangerous. Instead, use a butter knife without serrated edges or use a wooden craft stick. Never bring hot beverages to a room with preschoolers.
Cautions Foods high in sugar and caffeine (such as candy, chocolate, and cola) are stimulants and may cause overactive behavior in preschoolers. Some preschoolers may be sensitive to artificial colors or sweeteners. When knives or hot appliances are needed, a teacher should always use them; make sure they are put out of the preschoolers' reach. Food should never be given as a bribe or reward, or withheld as a punishment.
Foods to Avoid Preschoolers choke easily, especially when they try to talk and laugh while eating. Many children have food allergies. Here are some foods to avoid: Apples (with peeling) Carrots (raw) Celery (raw) Chewing Gum Grapes (unless quartered) Honey (not with children under 1 year of age) Nuts or Peanut Butter Popcorn Wieners (unless quartered lengthwise)
Plants Many plants are dangerous or have parts that are toxic. Avoid using these plants with preschoolers:
Plant Name	Toxic Part
Azalea	all parts
Bird of Paradise	green seed pods
Caladium	all parts
Daffodil	bulb
English Ivy	leaves
Read about more Dangerous Plants.

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