The most effective way to control allergy symptoms is avoidance. By controlling the environment and minimizing exposure to known allergens, parents can greatly limit the number and severity of allergic reactions. While this treatment method is not easy, there are several basic steps that can reduce the exposure to allergens that trigger allergic rhinitis. These steps include:

• Breastfeed infants for at least a year. Many healthcare experts long have argued that early breastfeeding is likely to protect the child from developing allergies. However, studies undertaken since the 1980s have provided a body of conflicting information about whether breastfeeding is more likely or less likely to protect infants from developing these conditions. Regardless, virtually everyone agrees that the health benefits of breastfeeding far outweigh any potential negative aspects.
  
  
• Keep allergic children indoors as much as possible during the pollen season (high pollen counts), and windy and humid days.
  
  
• During allergy season, try to keep windows and doors closed at home and in the car.
  
  
• Use air conditioning in the home and car, which cleans and dries out air.
  
  
• Use air filters that can remove allergens from the air, such as HEPA filters.
  
  
• Use a dehumidifier to prevent the growth of mold by reducing humidity.
  
  
• Avoid having children help with yard work that could stir up pollen and molds – such as mowing the lawn or raking leaves.
  
  
• Avoid hanging laundry outdoors to dry because pollen can collect on fabrics.
  
  
• Remove rugs from a child’s bedroom. Hardwood floors and linoleum hold less dust. Use plastic blinds instead of cloth drapes and allergen-proof covers for pillows, mattresses and box springs. Wash bedding once a week in hot water – at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit (54 degrees Celsius).
  
  
• Keep pets out of the child's bedroom and keep the bedroom door closed. Fish tanks and bowls should be kept out of the bedrooms of children with mold allergies because these containers generate moisture.
  
  
• Wash pets frequently to minimize the amount of allergens on their skin and coats.
  
  
• Make sure children shower frequently to wash airborne allergens from their hair and skin.
  
  
• Give children washable toys and stuffed animals.
  
  
• Prevent cockroach infestations by taking the following steps: storing food in sealed containers, washing dirty dishes immediately, not leaving crumbs on the counter or floor, and keeping garbage well-sealed.  

Parents should also notify the staff at their child’s school about the child’s condition. This enables parents and school employees to work together toward reducing the child’s exposure to allergens while in the classroom. Parents should also alert teachers to the fact that allergic rhinitis and its treatments may affect the child’s concentration level and overall performance at school.