Summer has not officially arrived, but it sure feels like it! For kids, summer means playing outside, catching lightning bugs, playing fun summer sports and more time with family. No parent goes without summertime worries for their child but there are plenty of ways to make sure your kid is staying as safe as without going overboard.
Keep Them Hydrated! Dehydration can lead to serious health complications for both adults and children. Drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day, before outside play and during outside play can make sure dehydration doesn't occur. Unless your child requires a fancy sports drink, plain old water will suffice. Cool water can help even out hydration levels and the cooler temperature can help maintain a normal body temperature.
Take Cool Breaks! If your child will be out all day say at the pool, at camp or perhaps a sports training camp, make sure he/she is getting adequate time to rest and cool down. Often, adults can tolerate standing, running, etc in the heat longer than children can and have the experience to know when they've had enough and need a break. Children typically need to be reminded to take breaks and cool down. Perhaps some time in the shade, in an air conditioned space or in the water can be taken to ensure they are staying cool enough to avoid heat exhaustion or a heat stroke.
Send Them Out Prepared! If your child is going to be outside for any length of time, they should have sunscreen applied. Nothing is worse than back pain from an unnecessary sunburn. A sunburn is preventable and with each sunburn, increases the risk of skin cancer by a specific percentage (varies depending on the individual). Using sunscreen should be a necessity for both adults and children.
Following these simple tips can make for a less painful and more enjoyable summer. Having fun doesn't have to be pre-planned to make it safe, but instilling a few safety rituals each day will help your kids make these habits life-long.