Food allergy parenting can feel like a detective game you never asked to play. One day, your child gets a rash after eating a cookie. A week later, there’s tummy pain after a bite of something else. Suddenly, you're trying to connect the dots — is it peanuts? Tree nuts? Something else?

Sound familiar?

You're not alone. As a nurse practitioner and a food allergy parent myself, I know how overwhelming it can be in those early days — or anytime you're trying to get answers. That's why having the right tools before you walk into the allergist's office can make all the difference.

Let me tell you about two of my favorite resources: the Food Allergy Symptom Tracker and the Food Allergy Testing Checklist — and how they can help you feel more in control and less confused.

What Is a Symptom Tracker and Why Do You Need One?

A Symptom Tracker is a simple but powerful way to log:

  • What symptoms appeared (and how soon)

  • What actions you took

  • Extra space for notes from caregiver

  • It allows you to continue to monitor reactions for every day of the week so you only need one document for an entire month!

When you bring this information to your allergist, you're giving them a clearer picture — which leads to better, safer decisions about testing and diagnosis.

It’s especially useful if:

  • You suspect a food allergy but haven’t confirmed it yet

  • You’ve had a few “maybe” reactions and want to rule things out

  • You’re prepping for a follow-up visit or second opinion

Why the Food Allergy Testing Checklist Is a Game-Changer

Walking into an allergist’s office for the first time? It can be intimidating. You might not even know what questions to ask — or how to prepare your child.

That’s where the Food Allergy Testing Checklist comes in. It walks you through:

  1. How to prepare for your child’s appointment

  2. What to bring to your appointment

  3. What types of tests might be recommended (like skin prick or blood tests)

  4. Which questions to ask your allergist

And it’s all written in everyday language — no medical degree required.

Why I Created These Tools for You

When my own son was diagnosed with a peanut allergy, I didn’t have these kinds of resources. I had training as a medical professional — but I was still overwhelmed as a mom.

That’s why I created these printable tools: to give you peace of mind, a clear path forward, and more confidence when you're talking to your child’s care team.

You don’t need to figure it out alone. These tools are a great first step toward getting clarity, making informed choices, and feeling empowered in this journey. Connect with me for more personalized guidance.

Grab Your Free Food Allergy Testing Checklist and Symptom Tracker

Want your own Food Allergy Symptom Tracker + Testing Checklist? I’ve put them together into a single printable PDF document — just for food allergy parents like you. Click here to get your instant download. They are perfect for printing out or saving on your phone for easy reference.

You’ve got this — and I’ve got you.

If you’re still learning the basics, check out What is a Food Allergy? for a parent-friendly breakdown.

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