The pollen may be gone, but children's allergy misery often hangs on during the winter months. Unlike pollen, Valacer noted, mold spores grow anywhere and need only moisture and oxygen to thrive and spread their misery to children with allergies.
Shelter provides no safe haven from allergens, either.
Indoor irritants such as dust and pet dander become more problematic as winter weather keeps children inside. Some strategies, however, can make life less irritating for children with winter allergies. When children play outside, Valacer said, make sure they stay away from areas that promote mold growth, such as dark, wooded spots. He also recommended using exhaust fans when showering or cooking, which helps lower indoor humidity levels and stunt the growth of mold and mites. If someone in the house must use a humidifier, he noted, it's important to keep it clean and change the water frequently.