Keep Kids Safe and Happy this Summer
Summer is a season of fun and adventure for children, filled with long days of play, exploration, and entertainment. However, with the excitement comes the responsibility of ensuring that kids stay safe while enjoying their summer activities. Here are some essential and fun tips for parents to keep their children safe this summer!
1. FUN IN THE SUN WITHOUT THE BURN ☀️
Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 on your children’s skin 30 minutes before they go outside. Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
Hats & Sunglasses: Equip your kids with wide-brimmed hats and UV-protection sunglasses. Not only do they provide protection, but they can also be a fun fashion statement!
Seek Shade: Encourage play in shaded areas during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) to minimize the risk of sunburn. Fresh air is important for everyone, but be aware that too much heat can lead to fatigue and dehydration; even if the child is not directly in the sun.
2. SPLASH AROUND WITH WATER SAFETY 🌊
Never Leave Kids Unsupervised: Always watch children closely when they are in or near water, whether it's a pool, beach, lake, or even a bathtub.
Swim Lessons: Consider enrolling your kids in swim lessons. Knowing how to swim is a crucial skill for water safety, and it’s a fun social activity during the summer!
Life Jackets: Use life jackets for younger children or inexperienced swimmers when they are near or in the water. Make sure they are Coast Guard-approved and properly fitted. Many locations require life-jackets so be sure to check the location’s website before attending. Better safe than sorry!
3. KEEP KIDS HYDRATED & HEALTHY 🧃
Plenty of Water: Ensure your kids drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during outdoor activities. Keep water bottles handy and encourage regular sips. If your child isn't too thrilled about drinking water regularly, adding some juice to the water encourages them!
Hydrating Snacks: Offer hydrating snacks like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges to help maintain their fluid levels and provide a refreshing treat. Most fruits and veggies are go-to snacks for the summer since they provide necessary hydration and nutrients.
4. OUTDOOR PLAY SAFETY 🚲
Protective Gear: Give your kids the proper safety equipment for sports like rollerblading, skateboarding, and biking. Although knee and elbow pads are not necessary but are still recommended for safety, it is illegal for a child under the age of sixteen to ride a bicycle without a helmet.
Supervised Play Areas: Choose playgrounds with safe, age-appropriate equipment and soft surfaces like mulch or rubber to cushion falls.
Bug Safety: Use insect repellent to protect your kids from bug bites and teach them to avoid areas where insects nest, like tall grass and stagnant water.
5. SAFE TRAVELING ADVENTURES 🛣️
Car Seat Safety: Ensure that car seats and booster seats are properly installed and appropriate for your child’s age, height, and weight.
Travel Kit: Pack a travel kit with essentials like first-aid supplies, snacks, water, and activities to keep your kids occupied and safe during trips.
6. PREPARATION FOR ANY SITUATION ❤️🩹
First Aid: Keep a well-stocked first-aid kit at home and in your car. Learn basic first aid and CPR to be prepared for emergencies.
Emergency Plan: Teach your children what to do in case of an emergency. Make sure they know your contact information and how to dial emergency services. It is vital that a child understand what to do in an emergency!
8. STAYING ACTIVE & CREATIVE 🎨
Plan Activities: Organize a mix of structured and free play activities. Think about local parks, nature trails, and community events that can keep your children engaged and active. Increased physical activity and outdoor play are shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, obesity, and cognitive delays in children (CDC).
Creative Projects: Incorporate creative projects like DIY crafts, gardening, or family cook-offs. These can be both fun and educational, keeping their minds and bodies busy. Learning does not stop just because school is out.
Free Play: Free play is vital for children's holistic development. It supports their physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth, helping them become well-rounded, resilient, and innovative individuals.
By following these tips, parents can ensure their children have a fun, exciting, and safe summer. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in creating a memorable and secure summer experience for your kids. So, get out there, enjoy the sunshine, and make this summer the best one yet!
Learn more about Summer events in Yamhill County, Oregon here!