One important step in getting children to use their medications for asthma correctly is to explain what each one does.

Controller medications need to be taken every day, even if there are no symptoms that day. These medications prevent asthma from getting to be a problem when it is out of control. It is best to associate taking these medications with a consistent event that occurs every day, such as waking up in the morning or getting ready to go to sleep. For medications that require administration more than two times a day, it might be a good idea to tie taking the medications to meals.

Taking medications should not be viewed as a punishment but as an important way to keep from having problems. Positive reinforcement is the best way for some children to remember to take their medications.

Medications that serve to relieve symptoms (relievers) need to be identified as being different. They are used when your child is experiencing more problems, such as wheezing or difficulty breathing. When these symptoms occur, it is frightening for children, and they may not take the medications correctly. You can prepare for this by practicing when your child is not having an attack.