Summertime is a favorite season for kids, full of swimming, bike rides, and long afternoons outdoors. Playing outside is great for their wellbeing and development, but too much sun and heat can be harmful, putting kids at risk of muscle cramps and dehydration.
If children get too overheated, they could experience heat exhaustion, where they typically feel weak and sweaty. If your child is so overheated that they are confused, overly sleepy, and extremely weak, this is possibly heat stroke and you should call 911 and seek urgent medical attention. Toddlers are especially at risk of becoming overheated.
Jennifer Weisz, MD, MBA, FAAP, pediatrician at Children’s National Hospital, shares her top heat safety tips for parents of babies older than 6 months of age, toddlers, school-aged children, and teens.
Beat the Heat
Want to help your child avoid overheating?
- Make sure your child drinks water frequently. (Adding fruit slices to their water or using a fun straw can help motivate reluctant drinkers.)
- Wear a hat and protective clothing, while also taking frequent breaks in the shade. The strongest sun is between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., so if kids are outside during this time, it is important to take extra precautions.
- Parents and caregivers should pay attention to area heat advisories and take extra precautions if the outside temperature is greater than 90 degrees.
Always Wear Sunscreen
Sunscreen is an important protective barrier and should be used even if it is cloudy outside. Sunscreen should be broad spectrum, water resistant, and at least SPF 30. Mineral sunscreen zinc oxide is generally preferred as it is well-tolerated even for kids with sensitive skin, but any sunscreen is better than none. Applying enough sunscreen (likely more than you do now), using it 15 to 20 minutes before going outside, and reapplying it frequently will keep your child’s skin protected.
Babies Require Extra Care
Babies under 6 months old have very sensitive skin and should not be out in the direct sun. They should always be kept in the shade under umbrellas, coverings, and hats. They do not need to drink water as they will get enough hydration from breast milk and formula.
Fun in the Sun with None of the Burn
From babies to teens, every child needs a little extra care in the heat. By staying alert to the signs of heat stress and making sun-safety part of your routine, you’re setting your child up for a summer full of safe, joyful play.
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
