Children should not use aerosol inhalers without a spacer. Spacers with masks are for babies and very young children.

Once your child reaches five years, they will learn to use a spacer without a mask.

Using a spacer with a mask

1. Shake the inhaler well.
2. Fit the inhaler into the end of the spacer.
3. Place the mask over your baby’s face so that it seals around the nose and mouth, tilting the spacer slightly upwards.
4. Press the inhaler once and allow your baby to breathe it in slowly for a count of ten.
5. Remove the spacer.

Repeat these steps for each puff.

Your doctor or nurse will tell you how many puffs are needed.

You can visit the following link to check your child’s inhaler technique:
www.asthmaandlung.org.uk/living- with/inhaler-videos

Using a spacer with a mouthpiece

1. Shake the inhaler well.
2. Fit the inhaler into the end of the spacer.
3. Place the mouthpiece in your child’s mouth ensuring their lips seal around it.
4. Press the inhaler once and allow your child to take five normal breaths in and out.
5. Remove the spacer.

Repeat these steps for each puff.

Your doctor or nurse will tell you how many puffs are needed.

Tips on using a spacer

Turn the spacer into a toy – decorate it with coloured stickers. You could also make it into a counting game! Have a routine – set a time of day when your child takes their inhaler. Remember to give lots of praise when they do it correctly!

Cuddle or cradle your baby if they are using a spacer and be positive and smile. If you are having problems using the spacer, try giving it to your baby when they are asleep, or ask for help.