Resource
Asthma Education Initiative
Students with asthma need to understand how to manage asthma at school. Students who learn how to manage and control their asthma should be able to participate in physical activity and play.
Identify yourself as a student with asthma.
On your school registration forms indicate that you have asthma and/or use asthma medicines. Also, let your principal, teachers and coaches know that you have asthma. It is also a good idea to let your close friends know that you have asthma.
Tell supply/substitute teachers that you have asthma, what to do if your asthma gets worse and where your medication is kept.
Ensure you have easy access to your asthma medication.
Have your reliever inhaler (usually blue) with you at all times or know where it is kept and how to get it quickly.
Know how and when to use your asthma medication safely by using the following guidelines:
- Make sure your medication has your name on it.
- Do not share your medication with friends.
- Know when your medication is empty and you need a refill.
- Tell your parent/guardian and teacher every time you take your medication.
- Tell your teacher if you are uncomfortable with taking your own medication and need help.
Establish a process for handling worsening asthma.
Talk with your teachers and school personnel about your asthma and how it is managed. Tell your teacher when your asthma is bothering you.
Provide a Plan of Care to your principal/teachers/coach/recreation leader so they will know about your triggers, medications and what to do when your asthma gets worse.
Identify and reduce common asthma triggers within the school.
Know what triggers your asthma (what makes your asthma worse) and have a plan for handling your asthma triggers.
Let your teachers and coaches know your asthma triggers. If you have food allergies, make sure that you also talk to the cafeteria and lunch room staff about your allergies.
Participate in physical activity and play.
Do not let your asthma get in your way of being physically active or enjoying outdoor play. If asthma symptoms start, stop the activity and take your reliever inhaler. Only return to your activity when fully recovered.
Engage in asthma education.
Learn about asthma by attending asthma education programs, seeing your asthma health care provider on a regular basis, and checking out www.asthmakids.ca.
Collaborate with others (such as health care providers, public health, parents/guardians and community partners) to create an asthma friendly school.
Talk to your teachers, coaches, health care providers and parents/guardians about your asthma and how you are feeling and how often you need to use your reliever inhaler.
