Your teenagers asthma

5) Parents and transition

Transition from child to adult asthma services will mean changes for you as well as your child.

  • As a parent you will naturally be anxious.
  • You have managed your child’s asthma well for years.
  • It can be a frustrating time.
  • You might get angry at your teenager’s attitude to their asthma.
  • Most teenagers don’t want to be “fussed over” drawing unwanted attention to their asthma around their friends.
  • Parents need support to let go.
  • There should be a gradual handover of responsibility.
  • Parents still have a legal responsibility until your child is 16 years old.
  • Parents are still needed, but in a different role to support your child in their decision making rather than telling them what to do.