Tree and grass pollen overlap in early May, and that double dose is one reason pediatric asthma flares spike this time of year. The good news: a refreshed action plan, a few home tweaks, and a quick check-in with your pediatrician can keep most kids breathing easy through spring. May is National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, the perfect moment to get ahead of symptoms.
Sunday, May 3, 2026Asthma
Why May Is the Toughest Month for Kids with Asthma
A simple plan for the start of Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month
The Teddy Editorial Desk · Grounded in AAP & CDC guidance
In Brief
The Briefing
Explainer
Spot an Asthma Flare Before It Worsens
More nighttime coughing, getting winded faster at recess, or skipping favorite outdoor games are early signals. These often appear before wheezing starts.
Guidance
Time to Refresh the Action Plan
A written asthma action plan should be updated yearly. Your pediatrician can match medications to your child's current weight and routine before summer camp season.
Tips
Pollen Tips That Actually Help
Keep windows closed during peak morning hours, rinse hair and change clothes after outdoor play, and run the AC on recirculate during long drives.
Explainer
Rescue Inhaler vs. Controller: A Quick Refresher
Quick-relief (rescue) inhalers calm sudden symptoms. Controller medicines are taken daily to prevent flares. Many kids with persistent asthma need both.
Questions
What Parents Are Asking
For the Clinic
Clinic Takeaway
Use the kickoff of Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month as a nudge for proactive outreach. A short message inviting families with persistent asthma in for an action plan review, spacer technique check, and refill before summer camp season can meaningfully cut urgent visits over the next eight weeks.
Source: AAFA and AAP asthma management resources
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