When it comes to monitoring your school-aged child's asthma, do not think of it as something that you only do from one health care provider visit to the next. Instead, it should be something that you and your child think about each day. What medications are needed, and when should they be used? What does your child come into contact with that triggers his symptoms? Let your child know that while asthma is now a part of his life, it doesn't have to control his life. By managing his symptoms day to day, he can still enjoy the same activities and pleasures his friends do.