The ABCs of Asthma-Friendly Schools
You may feel your child’s asthma is well managed—but did you know that a return to school in the fall could mean an increase in asthma symptoms? That’s why it’s important to talk to the teacher about your child’s asthma.
Role reversal
Your first back-to-school assignment is to make an appointment to discuss your child’s treatment plan with the principal, teachers, coaches, and nurse.
Then, involve your child in a discussion of his asthma action plan—any plan you develop with your health care professional will be most effective if your child understands and takes an active role in it.
In the classroom
By learning about your child’s asthma, the school staff can be aware of classroom allergens and irritants that may trigger asthma, such as:
Pets with fur or feathers
Cockroaches
Heavy chemical smells
Mold
On the playground
Running outdoors on a cold day, kicking up dust on the playground, or even just playing under normal conditions can trigger asthma symptoms.
To avoid having your child sidelined, the most important thing you can do is make sure he has access to medicine before activities and for acute symptoms.
Once his asthma is well managed, physical activity, such as recess or soccer practice, is essential to your child’s overall fitness.
Your child’s asthma action plan
The plan should contain the following information about your child:
Asthma triggers
Medications
Best peak flow reading
Health care professional and parent contact numbers
Written emergency plan for handling asthma episodes at school
You’re sure to earn high marks when you work with your child’s school to help him have a rewarding school experience.