Reference Guide

Produced by the California asthma program, "California Breathing," in the California Department of Public Health, this guidance addresses both clinical asthma management and environmental triggers. This is a comprehensive, multimedia training course and resource guide developed for people who work with children who have asthma in preschools, childcare centers, and family childcare homes. Presented as online streaming video with a companion PDF guidebook, this resource provides valuable information for teachers, parents, and other caregivers.

Direct link to chapters, videos, and other resources: http://www.californiabreathing.org/resources/cb-pubs-new/pdf-childcare-e...

Are you a school nurse, teacher, or staff member? The American Lung Association has compiled easy-to-follow steps and resources you can use to support an asthma-friendlier learning environment. Find out what you can do to help all students breathe easier this school year.

Asthma is a common disease among Montana children.

Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases in childhood, affecting an esti-mated 20,000 children ages 0-18 in Montana.  One in five Montana high school students has been told they have asthma in their lifetime and 11% of Montana high school students report currently having asthma. In a typical Montana classroom with 30 students, three children will likely have asthma.

Asthma affects school attendance and performance.

Nationwide, asthma is a leading cause of school absences. In 2003, approximately 12.8 million school days were missed due to asthma in the United States.Research indicates that students with persistent asthma symptoms and asthma related school absences may have lower test scores and academic achievement.

With planning, asthma can be controlled in the school setting.

Good asthma management includes proper use of asthma medications and reduction of environmental asthma triggers such as tobacco smoke and animal dander. Schools can support asthma management efforts by implementing policies and procedures that allow students easy access to their medications and that reduce asthma triggers in the school environment.

Creating an asthma friendly school environment can help students with asthma fully participate in all school activities and have the best chance at academic success. This booklet details seven simple steps toward creating an asthma friendly school.