Texas Allergy Season Survival Guide for Kids

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If your child has been rubbing their eyes, sniffling, or complaining of a scratchy throat lately, you’re not alone—and it’s probably not a cold. Welcome to cedar fever season in North Texas.

Here in McKinney and throughout Collin County, mountain cedar pollen peaks from December through February, turning what should be the “off-season” for allergies into one of the most miserable times of year for sensitive kids. At A+ Kids Pediatrics, we’re seeing more families than usual wondering: Is this allergies or something contagious?

Let’s break down what Texas parents need to know to help their kids breathe easier this season.

What Is Cedar Fever?

Despite the name, cedar fever doesn’t actually cause a fever. It’s an allergic reaction to pollen from the Ashe juniper tree (what locals call “mountain cedar”). When these trees release pollen—often triggered by cold fronts and windy days here in North Texas—it creates a yellowish cloud that can travel for miles.

Common symptoms in children:

Runny or stuffy nose
Itchy, watery eyes
Sneezing fits
Scratchy throat or cough
Fatigue (from poor sleep due to congestion)
Dark circles under the eyes (“allergic shiners”)

Sound familiar? Many parents mistake these symptoms for a winter cold or even the flu. Here’s how to tell the difference.

The golden rule: If your child has symptoms that linger beyond two weeks without improvement, or if they get “sick” at the same time every year, allergies are likely the culprit.

North Texas Allergen Calendar

Living in McKinney means dealing with allergens almost year-round. Here’s what to watch for:

December–February: Mountain cedar (peak season NOW)
March–May: Oak, elm, and grass pollens
June–August: Grass and mold (humidity spikes)
September–November: Ragweed and fall weeds

Knowing your child’s triggers can help you prepare before symptoms start.

7 Strategies to Help Your Child Through Allergy Season

1. Check the Pollen Count Daily

Before your child heads to school or outdoor activities, check local pollen counts for McKinney and Collin County. On high-count days (ceden pollen over 500 grains per cubic meter), limit outdoor playtime—especially between 5–10 AM when pollen peaks.

2. Create an “Allergen-Free Zone” at Home

Keep windows closed during high pollen days
Use HEPA air purifiers in your child’s bedroom
Wash bedding weekly in hot water
Have kids shower and change clothes immediately after playing outside

3. Nasal Saline Rinse (Age-Appropriate)

For children old enough to cooperate, saline nasal rinses can flush out pollen and reduce congestion. We can show you the proper technique during your visit.

4. Over-the-Counter Relief

Non-drowsy antihistamines (like cetirizine or loratadine) can provide daily relief for kids ages 2 and up. Always check with us first about proper dosing for your child’s age and weight.

5. Eye Care

Itchy eyes are miserable for kids. Artificial tears can rinse out pollen, and cool compresses reduce swelling. Avoid rubbing—it makes symptoms worse.

6. Know When to Keep Them Home

While allergies aren’t contagious, severe symptoms can make focusing at school impossible. If your child is constantly sneezing, has significant eye irritation, or is exhausted from poor sleep, a day of rest at home might help.

7. Consider Allergy Testing

If your child suffers every season, it might be time to identify specific triggers. We can discuss whether allergy testing or referral to a pediatric allergist makes sense for your family.

When to See Your Pediatrician

Most seasonal allergies can be managed at home, but schedule a same-day appointment or telemedicine visit if your child experiences:

Wheezing or difficulty breathing (could indicate allergy-induced asthma)
Symptoms that don’t improve with OTC medications
Facial pain or pressure (possible sinus infection)
Ear pain (allergies can lead to ear infections)
High fever (unlikely with allergies—may indicate infection)

At A+ Kids Pediatrics, we offer same-day sick visits and telemedicine consultations to help you quickly determine whether your child’s symptoms are allergy-related or something that needs additional treatment.

Breathe Easier—We’re Here to Help

Texas allergy season doesn’t have to mean months of misery for your child. With the right strategies—and a pediatric partner who understands local allergens—you can keep symptoms manageable and your child comfortable.

Have questions about your child’s allergy symptoms? Our team at A+ Kids Pediatrics is here to help McKinney families navigate every season. We offer same-day appointments, and telemedicine visits for your convenience.

A+ Kids Pediatrics
4200 S Lake Forest Dr, STE 100
McKinney, TX 75070
(214) 592-0356
Book an appointment online