Child Asthma: Talking to Your Child About Their Asthma
Be open
and honest with your child about their asthma condition. It is also important
to help your child maintain their independence. Children do not want to be set
apart from their peers just because they have asthma. However, if your child
wishes to participate in an activity that could trigger an asthma attack,
simply tell your child they cannot participate and explain why. Living with
asthma should not result in a lack of independence, but it does mean that extra
precautions may need to be taken in certain circumstances.
Young
children will understand very little about their asthma condition, but once a
child reaches ages 4 or 5, they can start communicating their symptoms with
their parents. Encourage your young children to get involved in managing their
asthma. Once a child reaches adolescence, it is important to let your child
manage their asthma condition on their own, but still be available to answer
questions if needed.
