Summer break is here and so is the Florida summer heat.
We all know the importance of spending time being active, and there is no better place for this than outside. By taking the necessary precautions, you and your children can have a safe and fun time outdoors.
Keep Kids Hydrated
One of the most important things to keep in mind is staying hydrated. Children are more susceptible to becoming dehydrated because their bodies are not as efficient in cooling down. Make sure your kids are replenishing their bodies with plenty of fluids while playing outside in the heat. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children drink six glasses of water on an average day, so when they are engaging in extra activity, especially outside, it’s important to drink even more.
Here are some helpful tips:
- Don’t wait until your child is thirsty to offer liquids. Thirst is the body’s way of telling you that you’re already mildly dehydrated.
- Schedule water breaks often—about every 20 minutes.
- Try to take water breaks in the shade.
- Try to avoid sugary juices and sports drinks when possible, but they’re ok for an occasional treat.
Apply Plenty of Sunscreen
In Orlando, UV rays are especially dangerous! Skin damage and sun burns can occur even on cloudy days – so it’s important to wear sunscreen every time kids are playing outside.
Here are some sunscreen tips:
- Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after sweating or swimming.
- Use sunscreen with at least SPF 15, as well as UVA and UVB protection.
- Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to the ears and neck. The scalp is also very vulnerable, so encourage your child to wear a hat or apply sunscreen to that area.
- Sunglasses help to protect a child’s eyes from UV rays.
Summer Activity Safety
In addition to wearing sunscreen, wearing proper safety equipment and taking extra safety precautions is also part of having a fun and safe summer vacation.
When biking, skateboarding, using scooters, or roller-skating, make sure your kids are wearing a helmet that fits properly. The chinstrap should be touching their chin, not dangling further down.
When swimming in a pool or in the ocean, be sure that there is an adult monitoring at all times and that proper flotation devices are being used if needed.
Summer break is a great time for kids to play outside. Finding a great Orlando summer camp is the perfect way to provide them with structured play opportunities while you’re at work.
Learn more about the Kids & Company Learning Centers’ Summer Camp by calling us today at (407) 277-1015.