Families are expected to notify Big and Tiny regarding any existing food or environmental allergies before their child’s first day of school. Parents/guardians of children with diagnosed allergies or asthma are required to provide Big and Tiny with an individualized health care plan, signed by the child’s physician, detailing the child’s symptoms, reactions, treatments, care, and all necessary medication.
This information will be shared with our staff, posted in areas where food is prepared or served, and kept in your child’s file. It is important that we are aware of all allergies, not only those related to food. If your child’s allergy is life threatening, please let us know immediately so we can make the appropriate accommodations.
All “Epi-Pens” will be stored at the front desk, and must always be clearly labeled with your child’s name, class, and expiration date.
Big and Tiny has a “peanut sensitive” environment approach. If you are bringing your own food please be aware that this policy includes all nuts, nut milks, nut oils, and nut butters. This applies to all food including snacks, lunch, and/or cooking classes included in the program.
Despite our diligent efforts, it is impossible to eliminate all risk for children with food allergies. Some allergies are so severe that the presence of the allergen in proximity of the child may cause a reaction. Similarly, it is impossible to prevent children from sharing food or for an allergen to be brought into the center by a family member or child, despite our best efforts to educate families and raise awareness. Ultimately, parents/guardians will need to decide whether group care is appropriate for their child with allergies in light of the risks that cannot be eliminated.