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Useful tools, Wellbeing
Wellbeing
15 September, 2023
About 10 percent of Australian children aged 0-14 have asthma as a long-term condition, as reported to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Asthma is a medical condition that narrows a person’s airways, making it hard to breathe. Childhood asthma symptoms can include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and coughing. All children who have asthma should have a dedicated action plan to ensure their health and safety when entering the schooling system – and that includes early learning centres.
An Asthma Action Plan is a document developed by a child’s doctor in consultation with their parent or carer. Asthma in toddlers and asthma in children can be very individual. The action plan provides information about a child’s personalised asthma management. It tells caregivers what triggers a particular child’s childhood asthma symptoms and gives caregivers clear instructions on how to care for a child in specific circumstances.
When parents give Edge Early Learning their child’s Asthma Action Plan, we share this with the educators who care for their child. Having a plan in place helps our educators be mindful of childhood asthma symptoms and gives them the practical information they need to respond appropriately. For example, if there have been bushfires and smoke triggers a child’s asthma, an educator may facilitate more indoor play.
Experts agree there are a number of benefits to having an Asthma Action Plan in place, including:
An Asthma Action Plan sets out clear instructions on using the child’s preventers, relievers and any other medication in particular circumstances. It gives caregivers detailed information on a child’s personal childhood asthma symptoms, how to respond and what doses to give in situations when asthma is well-controlled, flaring up, severe or an emergency. It advises what symptoms are an emergency, when to call an ambulance and how to provide emergency first aid. Your doctor will create this plan with you.
It’s perfectly reasonable for parents to worry about managing their child’s asthma when they’re in someone else’s care, whether that’s at school or an early learning centre. We encourage parents to talk to us about their child’s medical needs right from the start of their journey at Edge Early Learning so we can be sure to give them the support they need. We recommend the following strategies:
Edge Early Learning’s Approach
Edge Early Learning is committed to supporting children with asthma. We work hand-in-hand with parents to ensure educators are aware of each child’s medical conditions and personalised Asthma Action Plans before their education begins at an Edge Early Learning centre.