Breathing Easy:
 

Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways in the lungs, causing difficulties in breathing. Children with asthma can have severe asthma attacks, which can be life-threatening if not managed properly. As a parent with a child in childcare, it is essential to understand the steps you and the childcare center can take to manage your child's asthma.

 

For parents:

 

Know your child's triggers: Asthma triggers vary from person to person, but common triggers include pollen, pet dander, smoke, and dust mites. Identifying your child's triggers can help you avoid exposure to these triggers and prevent asthma attacks. Keep an asthma action plan: Work with your child's doctor to develop an asthma action plan. This plan should include what to do during an asthma attack, how to use your child's medications, and when to call for emergency medical assistance. Make sure to share this plan with the childcare center. Communicate with the childcare center: Make sure to inform the childcare center about your child's asthma and share the asthma action plan with them. Ask them to keep it readily available in case of an emergency. Pack an asthma first-aid kit: Keep a small asthma first-aid kit at the childcare center, including an inhaler, a spacer, and any other medications your child may need. Stay involved: Regularly communicate with the childcare center about your child's asthma, including any changes in symptoms or medication needs.

 

For the childcare center:

 

Train staff: Ensure that staff at the childcare center have been trained on how to recognize and respond to an asthma attack. Make sure they know how to use an inhaler and a spacer and how to administer any other medications. Keep the environment clean:

 

The childcare center should take steps to reduce exposure to asthma triggers, such as regularly cleaning and vacuuming to reduce dust and allergens. Have an emergency plan: The childcare center should have a plan in place for responding to an asthma attack, including having emergency contact information readily available and knowing how to use an inhaler and a spacer.

 

Foster an asthma-friendly environment: The childcare center should support and accommodate children with asthma by having quiet areas for them to rest, limiting exposure to triggers, and encouraging physical activity in a safe and controlled manner. By working together, parents and the childcare center can ensure that children with asthma receive the care and support they need to stay healthy and safe. With proper management, children with asthma can lead active, healthy lives and enjoy their time in childcare.

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