Preschools and asthma?

I just read an article about a group of moms who live just south of Seattle. They were on a mission to educate preschools how to be allergy & asthma friendly.

Great job ladies!

Preschools have a lot to worry about - kids with runny noses, potty accidents, kids fighting with each other, choking hazards, etc. 

They do a great job with those busy little kiddos!

But, most preschools I have worked with were also willing to learn how to make the preschool allergy and asthma friendly.

The moms from the Seattle area had a few things for preschools to watch for:

Cockroaches

These sneaky little bugs are rarely seen, but can leave behind body parts, saliva and feces - all of which can cause allergies (and asthma attacks) for kids

Mold

Slow leaks can cause mold over time. A few tips from Allergy & Asthma Foundation include improving air flow, use exhaust fans, use a dehumidifier and central air, fix leaks and make sure rain spouts drain AWAY from the preschool  

Dusty blankets and bears

Dust mites can be found everywhere except Antarctica! They love places that are warm and humid and cause an allergic reaction. Dust is also an irritant, so even if you aren't allergic to dust mites, the dust can still get into your nose and lungs and cause wheezing and sneezing. 

 

Strong smelling cleaners 

Everyone likes a clean room, but sometimes cleaners can do more damage than good. Their fumes can cause asthma attacks. I listened to a webinar recently where the expert in air quality said "Clean Has No Smell" (meaning you shouldn't go into a home or school and smell bleach or other cleaners)

Lack of fresh air 

Buildings are like lungs - they need fresh air in to come in and dirty air to go out. It's important for everyone - especially little kids with tiny sensitive lungs.

 

Scented candles

Air fresheners and scented candles may make your house smell sweet, but they can release VOC's (Volatile Organic Compounds) that can cause asthma attacks.

 

So hats off to the Seattle area  moms who are helping preschools be more allergy and asthma friendly!