Sadly, children with allergies may endure instead of enjoy their school years. Because they feel so bad from a runny nose, watery eyes and other allergy symptoms, children with allergies may not behave as they would normally.

How do you protect your child from this unnecessary anguish? First, work with your child's doctor to determine which substances trigger his or her allergy symptoms and get proper treatment. Second, whenever possible, have your child avoid that substance. Third, treat your child's symptoms with non-drowsy, non-jittery Children's Claritin® products.

These steps can help lessen the symptoms of allergies, and make them easier to manage.

• Meet with school personnel. Discuss your child's condition with the school nurse, teachers, coaches, and any other people with whom your child has regular contact. Inform them of allergens that can trigger your child's condition, such as pollen and freshly cut grass. Likewise, inform them of any medications your child is taking.
  
  
• Help your child fit in. Encourage your child to teach classmates and playmates about allergies. If others better understand allergies, your child will be more likely to follow his or her treatment plan.
  
  
• Encourage participation in sports. Send the message that it's okay to be active and involved. Provide a note to the school to allow medications to be taken prior to a sport or activity, if necessary.
  
  
• Consider nonsedating antihistamine medication. Every year, 2 million school days are lost due to allergies. Unlike some other medications, nonsedating Children's Claritin products will not make your child drowsy at school or at play.