Q&A: How Should I Talk to Other Caregivers About Managing My Child’s Asthma?

Clear communication helps friends, teachers, and other parents care for your child with confidence.

A woman holds her toddler son and teaches him to use his inhaler to manage his asthma.

It’s natural to feel nervous about leaving your child with asthma in someone else’s care. But sharing the right info clearly and simply can go a long way. 

Pick three key symptoms 

When talking to a new caregiver, focus on the main signs that your child’s asthma may be flaring. For example:

  1. Coughing that doesn’t stop  
  2. Feeling tight in the chest 
  3. Shortness of breath 

Then explain what to do, like “Give them two puffs of this inhaler if they say they’re tight or can’t stop coughing.” 

Talk about triggers 

Some common ones include:  

  • Smoke (from fireplaces or cigarettes) 
  • Pets 
  • Strong perfumes or cleaning products 

You might say, “These are things that can make their asthma worse — are any of these in your home?”   

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Plan ahead 

Make sure your child has any daily medications or rescue inhalers they might need. Phone alarms can help older kids remember when to take them.   

Most adults want to do the right thing — they just need a little bit of guidance. Clear, calm communication helps everyone feel more confident.