Asthma and allergies are increasing at epidemic rates. Infant, toddler, preschool, and extended childcare programs have seen an increasing number of children diagnosed with these conditions in recent years.
Children with asthma and allergies in the childcare setting have special healthcare needs, the most important of which is a caring childcare provider.
Managing asthma and allergy conditions requires vigilance and attention. Parents, childcare providers, and teachers can create a positive and nurturing environment for children with asthma provided all parties are willing to address each of the child’s health issues responsibly.
- The environment should be free of known allergens and irritants. This
includes pets, strong fumes, chalk dust, pesticides, cleaning products, and
secondhand smoke.
- Eliminate all sources of mold, mildew, or humidity in excess of 55 percent.
- Encourage frequent hand washing and wash shared toys to reduce the spread of respiratory infections common in children.
- Request a copy of the physician’s prescribed allergy and asthma management plan from the parents. Ask that a copy of the management plan be forwarded to you each time the plan is updated by the physician.
- Learn about asthma and allergies and the medications used to treat them. Learn about the medications your children are using - how frequently to use them, what to expect, and what to do if symptoms do not respond as planned.
- Keep each child’s individual allergy and asthma profile and instruction information on record for easy reference.
