Summer is here, and that means fun in the sun and water! But with all the excitement of pool parties, beach trips, and water parks, it’s important to keep safety top of mind. As parents, we’re all about balancing fun with responsibility, so here’s how to protect your kiddos from the sun and water hazards, while still enjoying all the summer activities.

Sunscreen is your best friend – period. For babies under 6 months, limit sun exposure and dress them in light, long-sleeved clothes and a cute hat. Once they’re older, use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.

A hat with a wide brim and UV-blocking sunglasses can add an extra layer of protection. And when it comes to beach trips or backyard BBQs, try to keep kids in the shade during peak sun hours (usually 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) to avoid overexposure.

Supervision is key — always keep an eye on your kids when they’re in or around the water. Even if your child is a strong swimmer, never leave them unattended, even for a minute! Invest in a fence around your pool, or if you’re at a friend’s house, ensure they have one. Gates that self-close and latch are a must.

For extra peace of mind, get your kids comfortable with swimming lessons. They may even love it! Also, make sure they wear a properly fitted life jacket. Don’t trust inflatable toys to keep them safe.

Now for the fun part! Here are a few water activities that’ll keep your kids entertained while also reinforcing water safety:

1. Water Balloon Fight: Classic summer fun! It’s simple and allows your kids to cool off while staying active.
2. Backyard Water Obstacle Course: Set up a few sprinklers, slip-and-slide, or inflatable water toys for an afternoon of challenges.
3. DIY Pool Noodle Rafting: Use pool noodles to create makeshift rafts or fun floating devices in the pool.

Summer is the perfect time for water play, but as parents, it’s essential to keep safety at the forefront. By practicing sun safety, keeping a close eye on kids in the pool, and introducing fun, educational water activities, you can ensure everyone has a blast while staying protected. Here’s to making memories this summer — safely!

Sources

Goldfish Swim School, Water Safety Tips For a Safe & Splash-tastic Summer Vacation. – American Red Cross, 6 Water Safety Tips to Help Save a Life this Summer, – Kids First Pediatric Partners, Summer Safety Tips – Sun and Water Safety.