Tips To Keep Your Kids Healthy This Summer

The sun is out, the weather is balmy, and it’s time to hit the playground. With masks and sanitizer in hand, you can practice basic COVID safety—but what about the whole picture? When you’re aware of the other maladies that affect kids during the summer, you can arm yourself with knowledge and keep your kiddos safe. A few tips to keep your kids healthy this summer will make a world of difference, both on the playground and at home.

Mask ‘em Up

You may be fully vaccinated, but your little ones aren’t! Keep a supply of clean masks on hand in case one gets dirty or an elastic band snaps during playtime. Some parents are also keeping their masks on in public to make their kids feel less alone in wearing them. Whatever your choice, set a healthy example for your kids to follow.

Be Generous With Sunscreen

Even if you’re not out and about for very long, little ones’ skin still burns easily. Before you head to the playground, slather them with sunscreen and reapply it every hour or so. A hat with a brim, like a baseball cap or bucket hat, also protects little ears and scalps from the sun.

Listen for Sniffles

Does your kid sound a little stuffed up? Are you constantly reaching for tissues to ease their congestion? Excess snot may be a symptom of sinusitis, which is an inflammation of their sinus cavities. Make an appointment with their doctor (or even an ENT specialist) and keep them off the playground until you’ve got a green light from the doc.

Keep Healthy Snacks Around

As you pack your bags for a day at the park or playground, make sure you’ve got adequate food and snacks, both for you and for your little ones. Pretzels, carrots, cheese, and crackers are all hearty options for a balanced snack time. Bring enough water and juice to keep you all hydrated throughout the day.

Enforce Bedtime

Children need more sleep than adults do. They may feel wound up after a day playing in the sun, but getting enough sleep is crucial to their development and well-being. Ensuring adequate sleep keeps their immune system in shape and offers them the energy for another day of play!

Long summer days of outdoor fun are a kid’s dream. Now that school’s out, help them play safely; these tips to keep kids healthy this summer are invaluable to keep on hand before you head to the playground.