Should a child with asthma sleep in a basement?

No: Although the particular environment of your basement is not known, in general, it is not a good idea for children with asthma to sleep in a basement, especially on the floor. More humid environments promote much more dust mite and mold growth. Moist, humid environments are known to be associated with more respiratory symptoms in children.

Not an easy question: Basements may be more damp and have mold, etc which can exacerbate the child's asthma. However, if the basement is appropriate for living and it can be made environmentally appropriate for an asthmatic (ie no rugs, vinyl/leather furniture, controled humidity, absence of c ats, dogs, etc) this may be a good alternative. Please discuss with the child's pediatrician.