Jeffrey Beach
President and CEO of Asthma Canada
With the right care plan, treatment, and support, children with asthma can manage symptoms and stay active every day.
Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases affecting children in Canada. 900,000+ children are living with asthma, and it remains a leading cause of emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and missed school days each year.
When asthma is not well controlled, it can interfere with sleep, learning, sports, and everyday play. The good news is that with the right plan, consistent treatment, and trusted support, most children with asthma can live active, symptom free lives.
1. Ensure Your Child Has an Asthma Action Plan
One of the most important tools for managing childhood asthma is a personalized Asthma Action Plan for Kids. Developed with your child’s healthcare provider, this written plan outlines daily medications, how to recognize worsening symptoms, and what to do in an emergency.
An Asthma Action Plan helps parents, caregivers, teachers, and coaches respond quickly and confidently. Make sure copies are shared with your child’s school or daycare and kept somewhere easy to access at home. Review the plan regularly, especially if medications or symptoms change. A clear, written plan reduces uncertainty and ensures everyone caring for your child understands exactly how to respond.
2. Focus on Daily Asthma Control
Good asthma management starts with prevention. Many children experience symptoms triggered by colds, allergens such as dust mites or pet dander, air pollution, exercise, or weather changes. Identifying and reducing exposure to triggers can significantly decrease flare ups.
If your child has been prescribed a daily controller medication, consistency is key. These medicines reduce inflammation in the airways and help prevent symptoms before they start. Rescue inhalers (usually blue) should always be easily accessible for quick relief during sudden symptoms.
Proper inhaler technique is also very important. Younger children often benefit from using a spacer device to ensure medication reaches the lungs effectively. Ask your healthcare provider to review inhaler technique at every appointment, even if you feel confident using it.
3. Know the Signs of Worsening Asthma
Early warning signs of an asthma attack can include increased coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, waking at night, or reduced ability to play and exercise. Acting early, can prevent a mild flare from becoming a serious attack (your Asthma Action Plan can guide you here).
If symptoms are not improving with rescue medication, or your child is struggling to speak, breathe, or stay alert, seek urgent medical care.
4. Get Personalized Support
Managing childhood asthma can feel overwhelming, but families do not have to navigate it alone. Asthma Canada offers a free, bilingual Asthma and Allergy HelpLine where parents and caregivers can speak directly with a Certified Respiratory Educator for personalized, evidence based guidance.
“Parents should never feel unsure about how to manage their child’s asthma,” says Jeff Beach, President and CEO of Asthma Canada. “Our Asthma and Allergy HelpLine connects families with Certified Respiratory Educators who can answer questions, review medications, and help parents feel confident in their child’s Asthma Action Plan.”
Whether you have questions about new symptoms, school concerns, or treatment options, connecting with a CRE can provide clarity and reassurance.
5. Make Learning Engaging
Education empowers children to take an active role in managing their asthma. Asthma Canada’s interactive online game, Mission Breathe, helps kids learn about triggers, symptoms, and proper inhaler use in a fun and engaging way. By building knowledge and confidence early, children are better prepared to manage their asthma independently as they grow.
With the right tools, daily routine, and expert support, children with asthma can participate fully in school, sports, and play. Asthma Canada is here to help every step of the way.
To learn more about managing childhood asthma and access free support, visit Asthma Action Plan for Kids.
