Summer is here and it’s time for fun, but also safety! The Educational Service Unit 8 nursing department, consisting of 12 registered nurses serving 12 public school districts, eight parochial schools, and two learning centers, will miss their students during summer break. The department is always providing care and wants to share some summer safety tips with parents and caregivers so everyone can return to school happy and healthy in the fall.
Protect kids’ skin. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children wear sunscreen with at least 15 to 50 SPF. Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming, sweating or toweling off, and consider wearing sun protection clothing for an added barrier. Sunscreen isn’t recommended for babies under six months, who should always be kept out of direct sunlight. Keep your littlest ones protected from the sun by dressing them in lightweight clothing and sun hats, and using umbrellas for shade.
— Hydrate! Steer clear of soda, energy drinks and fruit juices, which may worsen dehydration. Water is the best source of hydration for kids who are over 1 year old.
— Maintain eating habits. Opportunities for junk food abound during the summer, but abiding by healthy eating habits for kids while they’re out of school will ensure that your little ones learn healthy, consistent habits and get the vitamins and nutrients they need to fuel their summer fun.
— Be aware of hot cars. Never intentionally leave your child in the car for any reason. There’s no safe situation, temperature, or length of time for a child to be left alone in a car.
— Ride Safely. As kids head outdoors to play with friends and ride bicycles around the neighborhood, make sure they’re practicing bike safety, including riding a properly fitted bike and wearing a properly fitted bike helmet.
— Practice Water Safety. Pool safety includes the use of drain covers and fenced enclosures to life vests, swimming lessons, and CPR classes. Toddlers should be no further than an arm’s length away from their guardian when they’re around a pool or any other body of water. Empty buckets, bathtubs, coolers, and wading pools immediately after use.
— Use insect repellent. The Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than 30% concentration of DEET in insect repellants for children over two months old.
— Be aware of standing water. Ponds and turned-off fountains with stagnant water can serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
— Check for ticks. — Choose a playground that’s appropriate for your kids, with equipment that suits their age, size, and abilities.
- Do a touch test to confirm that slides and swings aren’t too hot before kids play.
— Wear the right attire.Opt for sturdy-soled sneakers over slippery flip-flops, and avoid clothing with strings, such as hoodies, which can get caught in equipment.
