Toy Ideas for a Child With Asthma

Stuffed Animals

• Traditional stuffed animals are problematic for children with asthma because the fabric can trap dust mites that can aggravate their condition. However, specialty toy stores often carry a selection of plush toys that have been tested to meet the guidelines set by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA)'s Asthma and Allergy Friendly Certification Program. Toys that meet these guidelines are safe for children with asthma as long as parents follow the recommended safety guideline of freezing, washing and drying the toy every four weeks. AAFA-certified stuffed toys include classic teddy bears and zoo animals as well as many popular Disney characters

Wooden Toy

• According to WebMD, some phthalates in plastics may aggravate breathing problems. Wooden toys are a safer alternative for children as long as they are made with finishes that are low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Wooden puzzles, blocks, toy vehicles and play food are all good options to consider. Handmade toys are acceptable as long as they come from a smoke-free and pet-free home.

Exercise Equipment

• Many people make the mistake of thinking that children with asthma should not be encouraged to exercise. However, physical activity is important for everyone and it can help kids with asthma improve their lung function. Kids Health reports that children who suffer from exercise-induced asthma are less likely to develop symptoms when engaging in sports such as golf, baseball or football. Therefore, a new baseball glove, a football or a set of child-sized golf clubs would be good gifts for a child with asthma.

Art Supplies

• A gift of art supplies helps encourage a child's creativity, but you should double check to make sure the art materials are unscented before giving them to a child with asthma. Manufacturers of markers, finger paints, stickers and other children's art supplies often add novelty scents such as grape, chocolate or bubble gum to their products. These scents might cause a reaction in a child with severe asthma. Chalk dust can sometimes be a trigger as well, so it would be best to skip any art sets that involve chalk.

Doctor Kit

• Children who have asthma need to see a physician regularly to manage their condition. A toy medical kit may help a young child with asthma feel less afraid during these appointments by helping him to see that doctors and nurses just want to make him feel better. If desired, you could also include a children's book on asthma or an AAFA-certified stuffed animal with the gift.