Beat the Heat with these Sun Safety Tips
Sweet, sweet summertime is upon us!
Water slides, theme parks, lakes, backyard BBQs, endless summer nights, and sunshine all day…. ahhh, to be a kid during summer!
Some of my fondest memories growing up were spending time with family and friends during summer, and most of those were outside in the sunshine!
I love creating those same memories now with my kiddos, spending time with them under the sun, receiving sunshine’s healing benefits...but also making sure they stay safe while we are at it. :)
So, how can you BEAT THE HEAT? I want to offer you four important reminders this summer:
Mineral based SUNSCREEN
Lots of HYDRATION
Make time for SHADE
Wearing LOOSE, LIGHTWEIGHT CLOTHING, AND A HAT
#1: SUNSCREEN… SO MANY OPTIONS! HOW SHOULD YOU DECIDE?
Remember small increments of sun exposure without sunscreen is not only good, but necessary for our children’s health! But it is best to avoid direct sunlight without sunscreen from 10-4pm
When using sunscreen in direct sunlight it should be at least 30 SPF
Pick a mineral based natural sunscreen with only ingredients: Zinc oxide or Titanium dioxide as the active ingredient. A cream is always a safer choice than aerosol
Mineral sunscreens work right away so no need to apply early, but it should be reapplied every 1-2 hours, especially when in water
#2: HYDRATION:
Offer drinking water every 30 minutes.
Homemade ice pops, coconut water, frozen fruit, and no sugar added juices are also great hydration sources.
Remember children need much more fluid when in the heat because their body is using it so quickly
With infants, be sure you provide regular feedings of breastmilk or formula
Pulling a child out of dehydration is difficult, so prevention is the best method ← REMEMBERS THIS!
#3: SHADE:
When possible, set up your play area in shaded locations
Encourage play in mornings and evenings when it’s cooler
Never leave a child in a stationary car when its hot
#4: CLOTHING:
Wear lightweight, light color, breathable clothing
Wear sunglasses and a hat when in the sun for long periods of time
* In spite of our best efforts to prevent overexposure to sun, sometimes our kiddos may get a sunburn - don't stress, it'll be okay. Follow these tips:
HOW TO TREAT SUNBURNS:
Put a cold, damp towel on skin for about 10-15 min 3 times a day
Use a Aloe Vera to soothe sunburned skin
Drink lots of water
Leave blisters alone. Allow the blisters to heal
Seek care for symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, or nausea
When you go back outside, protect your sunburned skin with clothing that covers the area
Consider using ibuprofen if the sunburn is very painful
Remember, you know what’s best for your children!
Being prepared when you will be outside for long periods of time is key: have your kiddos help pack the bag of drinks and snacks and involve them in the process… make homemade fruit popsicles with them to enjoy when they might be a bit overheated… pop fun-colored dish towels in the freezer to be able to grab to place on the forehead or neck -- staying safe in the sun is fun, and allows the good times to keep on rollin’!
Now go drink some more water and then cannonball in the pool!
For more education on medical emergencies, check out my digital course Mastering Medical Emergencies at Home.