A nebulizer is a machine that turns asthma medicine into a fine mist.

Your child gets the medicine he or she needs just by breathing normally while wearing the nebulizer's mask.

First, connect one end of the tubing to the machine and the other end to the medicine cup and face mask.

Next, put the correct amount of medicine into the medicine cup.

Then turn the machine on.

You should be able to see the mist forming.

To start the treatment, fit the mask over your child's face.

Keep it on until the medicine is gone.

Depending on the machine, this usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

It's important to keep the nebulizer's parts clean.

Be sure to follow the cleaning instructions that came with the machine.

Now, children are often too frightened or fussy, at least at first, to keep the mask on.

If that's the case, try putting the mask on your own face to show your child there's nothing to be afraid of.

Or have your child put the mask on a favorite stuffed animal.

You might think of ways to distract your child during the treatments, like watching cartoons or reading a book together.

And remember, the more calm and relaxed you are, the easier it will be for your child to relax.