Asthma Education in the Schools

For Students

In partnership with Bon Secours Richmond Health System, two program curriculums from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America are used to teach children about asthma and how to manage their asthma symptoms, triggers, medications and medication delivery devices. The You Can Control Asthma program was developed for children in the 3rd through 5th grade, while the Power Breathing Program was developed for pre-teen and teens in middle and high schools (grades 6-12). Classes are open free of charge to all children but with a specific focus on children who have multiple prescribed medications. Classes are offered in schools with the collaboration of schools, school nurses, and principals in the Richmond Metropolitan area. Some classes are also held at community libraries and community centers. All classes are taught by registered nurses or respiratory therapists. To learn more about the next class offering, please talk to your child’s school nurse or call Laura Burns, RN, MPH, AE-C at (804) 213-0917.

» Click here to review the school asthma program brochure (PDF format).

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You Can Control Asthma Program (ages 7-11 and family)

This program is a validated asthma education program for children and their families that helps increase the child’s self confidence in managing their asthma, self-management skills, and other knowledge necessary to control their asthma. Program materials consist of two booklets- one for the child and one for the caregiver. The interactive curriculum teaches through pictures, activities and reinforcement. Topics covered in class include education on the following topics:

  • Asthma physiology
  • Identification of individual signs and symptoms of a flare-up
  • How asthma medications work and why they are important
  • Controller medications
  • Quick relief medications
  • Individual asthma triggers and how to avoid them
  • Correct peak flow meter use
  • Correct spacer/holding chamber use
  • How to make wise asthma choices
  • Asthma, school and sports

Classes held in the public schools are coordinated with the assistance of the school nurses, schools, and with the permission of the school principals.

Community evening classes provide families with a light meal, mattress and pillow covers for their child with asthma and other asthma related items.

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Power Breathing Program (ages 12-through adolescence)

The Power Breathing Program provides a basic understanding of asthma management for teens in a peer-friendly environment and helps motivate them to personally take control of their asthma. CARMA offers this program in collaboration with the schools, school nurses and principals in the Richmond Metropolitan Area. Elements of the program include interactive discussion, problem-solving learning activities and strategic thinking. Educational topics included in the classes are as follows:

  • Asthma Basics- what happens during an episode, role of inflammation in asthma, identification of triggers and irritants, methods to avoid triggers
  • Discussion of the emotional components of managing asthma and realistic coping mechanisms
  • Medications from A to Z, asthma treatment options, peak flow monitoring,, medication delivery devices, types of medications and how they work
  • Controller medications
  • Quick relief medications
  • Interactive game “Class Dismissed”

In Chesterfield County schools the program is taught by school nurses with curriculum materials, supplies and incentives provided by Bon Secours and CARMA. CARMA has trained nurses that provide this program in other school systems.

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Asthma FIT

Nutrition and physical activity can impact asthma. In particular, being overweight can increase the chance of having asthma and can make symptoms of asthma worse. It is important to help children have a healthy weight through regular physical activity and healthy food choices. Certain nutrients, like vitamins A and C (found in fruits and vegetables) can also help protect the lungs from asthma.

The Asthma FIT program teaches school age children about asthma and the importance of being active and eating well. It also gives children the chance to be active and have fun while learning. In addition to fitness and nutrition, information is given about the signs, symptoms, management and myths associated with asthma. Children in the program are active during the sessions and challenged to make healthful choices at home.

» For more information about the program, contact Susan Garnett, RN at (804) 213-0918.

The Asthma FIT program has been piloted as an integrated component of the Richmond City Schools after-school program.

Asthma FIT Parent Handouts:

Asthma FIT Lessons:

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Faculty/Staff & Parents

CARMA is able to provide educational in-services for school personnel and nurses tailored to your school’s needs. Education mini-sessions can be provided to parents at a PTA meeting or other events.

» If you are interested in scheduling a training, please contact Laura Burns, RN, MPH, AE-C at (804) 213-0917.

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