07/11/2025
It’s amazing what happens when kids start to understand their own health 💛
Here at PAEDS we are taking some of steps to really empower kids and families to ow their health. It’s not just about telling kids what to do, but about helping them understand why.
When they know why their inhaler matters, what makes their tummy hurt, or when to tell an adult they don’t feel right — they’re learning confidence, courage and lifelong skills.
A recent study (Catarino et al., 2025) found that children who play an active role in managing their illness often feel more capable and less anxious — and that makes a huge difference for families too
But every child is different. Some kids are eager to take control early; others may never feel fully ready — and that’s okay. What matters is giving them opportunities, gentle encouragement, and space to learn at their own pace.
💡 Try this at home:
🌱 Explain their condition in simple, honest words
🩹 Involve them in daily routines — “Can you grab your spacer?”
💬 Let them ask questions (even tricky ones!)
❤️ Celebrate small wins — noticing symptoms, remembering medicine, speaking up
Each conversation, each moment of trust, helps them build confidence in caring for their own body and gives them a sense of control over their body.
Catarino M, Macedo L, Santos J, Charepe Z, Festas C. Self-Management in Children and Adolescents With Chronic Illness: An Evolutionary Analysis of the Concept. J Adv Nurs. 2025;81(8):4519-4541. doi:10.1111/jan.16754
