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Managing a child’s asthma is easier when everyone caring for them knows their usual treatment, the signs that it is getting worse and what to do in an emergency. The aim is a practical plan that works at home, at school and on days out.
Asthma can cause wheezing, coughing, breathlessness and a tight chest. Symptoms need medical assessment; a cough alone does not establish the diagnosis. The NHS asthma guide explains the condition and its treatment.
1. Get a written asthma action plan
Ask your child’s GP or asthma nurse to complete a personalised asthma action plan with you. This should explain their medicines, what worsening symptoms look like and the steps to take during an attack.
Keep a copy somewhere easy to find and a photograph on your phone. Share it with other parents, relatives, childminders and school staff who look after your child. Review it with the clinician when treatment changes so that different carers are not following different versions.
Before leaving an appointment, ask any questions about the instructions. A plan is only useful if the people who may need it understand it.
2. Check the medicines and inhaler technique
Children’s treatment differs according to their age and clinical needs. Follow the prescribed instructions rather than borrowing another child’s routine or relying on an inhaler’s colour. Ask a GP, asthma nurse or pharmacist to watch your child use their inhaler and any prescribed spacer, and correct the technique if necessary. Asthma + Lung UK has further advice on managing childhood asthma.
Check expiry dates and arrange repeat prescriptions before supplies run out. Keep regular asthma reviews, and arrange an earlier appointment if symptoms interfere with sleep, play or school, or if treatment seems less effective.
3. Make a plan for school and other carers
Speak to the school about where your child’s inhaler and spacer will be kept and how they can access them promptly. Provide an up-to-date action plan and discuss arrangements for sport, trips and clubs. Asthma + Lung UK’s school guidance includes questions to raise with staff.
Tell carers about triggers already identified for your child. Keep a short record of symptoms and possible triggers to discuss at reviews; avoid assuming that every child needs the same restrictions.
If your child has an asthma attack
Follow their personal action plan and use their prescribed reliever as directed. Call 999 if they get worse, do not improve after the maximum dose in their plan, or do not have an inhaler. Do not wait for a routine appointment. The NHS advises a GP review within two days after an attack, even if they recover.
Information checked: 19 October 2026. This general guide supports, rather than replaces, your child’s individual treatment plan.
