Whether you’re planning a beach day, a family hike, or simply playing in the backyard, these tips will help you create a fun and enjoyable environment for your children. Let’s explore these simple strategies to ensure safety and wellness during these hot months.
1. Sun Protection
Sun protection is a vital aspect of keeping children safe and healthy, especially during the long hot summer months. Younger children have delicate skin that is highly susceptible to the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Sunscreen with an SPF of 30+ should be applied 15-30 minutes before going outside and should be reapplied every 2 hours. Protective clothing such as lightweight long sleeve shirts or pants, along with a wide-brim hat and sunglasses, serve as great precautions against the sun’s harmful rays. Encouraging playtime in shaded areas during peak sun hours (10 AM to 4 PM) is also recommended to reduce the risk of sunburn.
2. Hydration
Knowing the signs of dehydration is extremely important during the summertime. Be aware of symptoms such as dry mouth or lips, low energy or lethargy, and decreased urine output or no wet diapers for small children. Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids, preferably water, throughout the day. Having a fun water bottle or adding natural flavor enhancers such as cucumbers or watermelon to their water can help to entice them to drink more. Avoid sugary drinks and caffeine as much as possible.
3. Water Safety
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, seventy-five percent of fatal child drownings were in children younger than five years old, with drowning being the leading cause of unintentional death in children ages 1-4 years of age. When near pools, lakes, rivers, or even bathtubs, constant supervision is necessary to ensure safety. Assign a “water watcher” when at parties or in group settings. This person should never take their eyes off the water and can be rotated out to allow for bathroom breaks or rest. Dress your child in bright colors so that they are easier to spot in the water. Considering swimming lessons is a great way to teach your child basic water safety rules that can reduce the risk of drowning.
Lastly, use a life jacket when in pools or larger bodies of water. It is pertinent to ensure proper size and fit of the life jacket. The jacket should fit snugly but not too tight. It should not ride up over the chin and ears. You can have your child raise their arms over their head and tug on the jacket from behind. If it goes above the chin, the jacket is too big. Inflatable swimming aids are not satisfactory in preventing drowning and still require touch supervision from an adult.
4. Insect Protection
As summer invites children to enjoy the outdoors, it also brings pesky bugs that can cause bites and stings, posing risks to their health and comfort. Use insect repellant as directed prior to outdoor play, especially in wooded or grassy areas. Avoid using scented lotions, soaps, and hair products on your child as these things can attract a variety of insects. Make sure that you are checking your child for ticks after outdoor play, with an emphasis on checking behind the ears and around the hairline.
Be aware of sensitivities to bug bites and stings. If your child has an allergy to insect stings, make sure you have prescribed medication handy in case of an emergency. Scratching and itching of bites will need to be monitored, as excessive itching and irritation can lead to the affected areas becoming infected.
5. Promote an Active Lifestyle
Encourage your little ones to be active for around 60 minutes a day through indoor or outdoor activities. Playgrounds, public pools, and getting involved in sports are a great way to get your children up and moving without them even realizing the benefits!
6. Promote Healthy Eating Habits
Summer is a wonderful time for children to enjoy a variety of fresh and healthy foods. With the abundance of seasonal fruits and vegetables, longer days, and more outdoor activities, promoting healthy eating habits can be both fun and beneficial for their overall health. Fresh fruits and veggie sticks are a great snack to throw in your bag for a trip to the pool or park. Make sure your child is getting the right balance of protein, carbs, dairy, and vegetables to fuel their bodies for outdoor play. While ice cream and frozen treats are popular to enjoy in the summer, make sure you are keeping these items to a minimum or saving them for special occasions.
By incorporating these additional safety tips, you can create a safer environment for children to enjoy the summer months. Always prioritize preventive measures and educate children about potential hazards and how to avoid them.
By Kaylee Clarke, RN, BSN
