Summertime is right around the corner, and many parents are already planning fun family activities – whether it’s hitting the pool, a day at the park, or enjoying a picnic in the backyard. But along with the excitement comes the responsibility to ensure that your kids stay safe, healthy, and comfortable while having fun.

Kids are very much susceptible to dehydration, because they tend to sweat more in the heat, and sometimes they forget to drink enough water while they’re having a great time hanging poolside with their friends. Dehydration can cause headaches, irritability, and fatigue – definitely not the summer vibes we’re going for!

Encourage your kiddos to drink water throughout the day, aiming for 6-8 cups daily. Keep a water bottle handy during outdoor activities, and make hydration fun by adding slices of fresh fruit like lemon, lime, or berries to their water. This little trick adds flavor without all the sugar of sodas or juices.

We all know the importance of sunscreen, but let’s face it – applying it to a wiggly toddler or getting a resistant preteen to slather it on can be a challenge. Protecting your kids’ skin from the sun’s harmful rays has to happen in order for them to grow up healthy! Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the U.S., and it’s largely preventable with the right precautions.

Make sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to all exposed skin 30 minutes before heading outside. Don’t forget those tricky spots like the ears, back of the neck, and feet! Reapply every two hours, especially if your kids have been swimming or sweating. And don’t rely solely on sunscreen – encourage your kids to wear protective clothing like hats, sunglasses, and lightweight long sleeves when possible.

Summer and water activities go hand-in-hand, but water safety is a must. Drowning can be a serious concern. It only takes seconds for an accident to happen.

Make sure your kids know how to swim, and never leave them unsupervised near water – even for a moment. Invest in swim lessons and properly-fitting life jackets for boating or when your kids are near open water. If you’re at a public pool or beach, choose areas with lifeguards, and always follow posted safety warnings. Better to be safe than sorry!

By taking a few extra precautions – staying hydrated, protecting skin from harmful UV rays, and practicing water safety – you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your family is staying safe while making fun summer memories.

Sources

HealthyChildren.org, Summer Sun, Heat & Air Quality: Tips to Keep Kids Safe. – Tennessee National, Sun Safety on the Water: Keeping Yourself Protected While Having Fun at Tennessee National. – Playworld, Sun Safety for Kids on the Playground. – Health by Design, Staying Hydrated and Safe in the Sun.