Hi P.,
my son, now 7 has an allergy to peanuts. not severe enough for an epie (sp.?) pen, but enough to put him in the e.r. for severe reactions.
his first reaction was with a peanut butter sandwich, around 18 months. it was very mild. hives on the face, and swelling of his eyes.
the reactions take anywhere from 10-30 mins depending on the severity. and the type of reaction is usually mild to severe hives starting on the face, then continuing down the mid section to the thighs.
i think that if she has an allergic reaction, it will be similar to the minor ones she had at a younger age. so you shouldnt worry too much because you already have an idea what to look for.
if you are still nervous, have some benadryl near by. that way you can treat it right away. we had to carry it around when my son was younger, he would get a break out even touching a peanut. oh so maybe if you dont want to give it to her just yet, get some peanuts still in the shells and let her play with them and see what happens. my son would break out in hives from playing with the wheels on his stroller that had been rolling over shells at an angel game.
good luck to you, and i feel your anxiety. my daughter is 6months old and i was already worried that she too may have the allergy like her brother.
oh p.s. dont be freaked out, you will never know unless you try. and the sooner you know, the sooner you will be able to educate her so she will know. (i took pictures and showed my son as soon as he was old enough to understand). preschools are great about the no peanut policy, but parties with the friends and family...cookies, brownies etc. he knows to ask before he eats anything that i dont give him