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The ABCs of Kids and Asthma 

If you parent, teach, or care for kids with asthma, these bite-sized lessons are for you. We created them with guidance from our team of Certified Respiratory Educators. If you have questions, we’re just an email away.  

What is the ‘September Spike’?

The ‘September Spike’ refers to a dangerous increase in pediatric asthma attacks and flare-ups that happen soon after kids and teens return to the classroom. In some regions, this phenomenon is called the “Autumn Spike” or “September Asthma Peak”.

If the summer got your child’s asthma management off track, learn what you can do to get it under control.

DID YOU KNOW?

Asthma is the most common chronic illness in children and the #1 reason they miss school. More than 850,000 Canadian kids live with asthma.  

The ABCs (basics) of pediatric asthma management

Managing asthma effectively requires daily monitoring , especially during high-risk periods like the September Spike. Our top tips:

  • Get an Asthma Action Plan: If your child doesn’t already have a written Asthma Action Plan, start here! Get the Action Plan filled in by your healthcare provider. You need to know how to recognize worsening asthma and what steps to take to get it under control. Download yours here.

  • Ensure consistent controller medication use: These medicines work long-term to prevent symptoms. Skip to our handy video how-to lessons, and don’t forget your spacer! Also known as a valved holding chamber, these devices help get the medicine where it needs to go.

  • Keep a reliever inhaler ( “puffer”) accessible: Your child should always have quick access to their fast-acting reliever inhaler. This inhaler, usually blue, can quickly soothe asthma symptoms, providing immediate relief. Don’t forget to use a “spacer” (valved holding chamber), such as the AeroChamber®.

  • Identify your child’s triggers and avoid them whenever possible: Asthma triggers are things in the environment that can cause worsening of asthma symptoms such as pollen, dust mites, cold air or smoke. Talk to your child about their triggers and teach them how to avoid them.

  • Teach good hand hygiene: Educate your children on the importance of washing their hands regularly to prevent infections as well as the correct technique. When a sink isn’t available, hand sanitizer is a good alternative.

  • Get the flu shot: Every member of your family should receive the flu shot each year. This not only reduces the risk of flu but also helps prevent complications.

DEEPEN YOUR KNOWLEDGE:


Taking Control is our comprehensive guide to living with asthma! Flip to page 20 for a user-friendly overview of asthma medications. This is a great resource for adults with asthma (scroll on for one that’s just for kids)

Download

Warning signs of poor asthma control

These are just a few of the signs to watch out for. If you spot any, refer to your Asthma Action Plan to know what to do to get it under control or your healthcare provider.

  • Reliever reliance

    Reaching for their reliver more than twice per week. (TIP: Reliever medications are crucial, but they only relieve symptoms for a short time. They shouldn’t be doing all the work in your asthma care routine! )

  • Nighttime symptoms

    Waking up at night because of coughing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath

  • Missing regular activities or school

    Having to miss school or an activity because of coughing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath

  • Weekly symptoms

    Coughing, wheezing, being short of breath or having chest tightness a few times per week

DEEPEN YOUR KNOWLEDGE:


There are more signs and symptoms you should know about. For a deeper dive, check out page 22 of the Lung Health Foundation’s Asthma in Children, a comprehensive resource that covers topics like triggers, medications, and tools.

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How to use your inhaler

Find your device:

Proper inhaler technique is everything! The Lung Health Foundation has curated a selection of videos to help you ensure that more of your medication reaches the lungs. Find your device below:

MDI with Spacer 

Metered dose inhalers, or MDIs, spray out a puff of medicine into the spacer. The medicine is then inhaled from the spacer deep into the lungs. 

MDI with Spacer and Mask 

For younger children, an MDI is best used with a spacer that includes a mask, which fits over their nose and mouth. 

Diskus 

A diskus inhaler delivers medication in the form of a dry powder, which is inhaled deep into the lungs. 

Turbuhaler 

A turbuhaler delivers medication in the form of a dry powder, which is inhaled deep into the lungs.

Nebulizer 

A nebulizer uses air pressure to turn liquid medicine into a mist that is then inhaled through a face mask or mouthpiece. 

DID YOU KNOW?

To get the medication where it needs to go, a “spacer” (valved holding chamber), such as the AeroChamber Plus® Flow-Vu® Spacer, is a must for anyone using a metered-dose inhaler. They can be purchased from most pharmacies and may be covered by your provincial health plan. 

What’s in your ‘pack?

When it comes to navigating school or daycare for kids with asthma, be prepared with these essentials: 

  • Reliever inhaler with spacer device: Having quick access to rescue medication is crucial  
  • A copy of their Asthma Action Plan: As the school year begins, consider sharing a copy of your child’s Asthma Action Plan with their teacher, principal, or daycare provider 

DID YOU KNOW?

If your child uses an MDI, using a spacer (valved holding chamber) is the best way to make sure they’re getting the full benefit of their medication. Those who prefer a compact option while they’re on-the-go may wish to consider the AeroChamber2go® 2-in-1 chamber and protective case.

 Your healthcare provider can help you choose the appropriate device for your child. 

Sports, or sidelines?

If asthma is stopping a child from staying active, that’s a signal their asthma is not under control. Once they’re breathing their best, try these tips to keep them moving:

  • Like anyone else, kids with asthma should warm up before beginning any physical activity or exercise. 

  • If a reliever puffer is needed, take it 10 to 15 minutes before starting physical activity.

  • If the child has any symptoms, they should stop and use a reliever puffer. Physical activity should only be started again if all the symptoms have disappeared.

NOTE: Most children who have their asthma under control won’t have to use a reliever puffer before physical activity or exercise. Cut the confusion by asking your healthcare provider to include these instructions when filling out your child’s Asthma Action Plan!

DEEPEN YOUR KNOWLEDGE:


Asthma Active is a print-ready book of puzzles, games and information that teaches children how to control their asthma and stay active. Flip to page 13 for a kid-friendly version of the tips above!

Download

Resources + downloads

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The content on this page has been reviewed by a Registered Respiratory Therapist who has been specially trained as a Certified Respiratory Educator.  

This pediatric asthma awareness initiative was made possible through a partnership between the Lung Health Foundation, The Mitchell and Kathryn Baran Family Foundation, Trudell Medical International and Trudell Healthcare Solutions.

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