Can status asthmaticus be the first presentation of asthma in kids?

Yes: The first asthma exacerbation can be of any severity, mild to life-threatening.

It can/ usually not: Most cases of asthma start out rather mild, but some can start with a bang. So yes a few start with status.

Asthma symptoms: Asthma is like a rainbow with a myriad of signs and symptoms. Sometimes you have kids that cough when they exercise, or seem to get "bronchitis" when the seasons change. Kids may have eczema or allergies as well. There are many subtle signs, as well as many many triggers. It is possible to present with severe respiratory distress bit i would be cautious to label a child after one episode.