Summer break is here, which means a lot of children will be out and about anywhere it’s deemed safe to be. Riding bikes, swimming in your home pool, and playing outdoor games all seem like harmless pastimes, but it’s important to make sure your child is safe during their summer fun.
Dr. Amit Reenu Paliwal provides pediatric care to children of all ages at Indus Healthcare. He has three offices in Pomona, West Covina, and Montclair, California. Each location is equipped to handle both well-child visits and sick children as part of complete pediatric care.
How can I protect my child during summer play?
It’s a parent’s job to worry over their kids, but trying to account for every potential danger under the sun can be exhausting. Being a helicopter parent isn’t good for your kids either, so it’s better to prepare them the best you can and let them have their fun. If you’re not sure where to begin, here are five places to start.
1. Protect them from the sun
Every child needs sunscreen, regardless of their skin color. Buy a minimum of 15 SPF protection, and make sure they reapply it generously every hour or so or if they get in the water. Replace expired sunscreen every year, and keep their head and eyes covered with hats and sunglasses to prevent overheating and sunburn.
2. Protect them from drowning
If your child is a fan of the water, make sure they’ve taken swimming lessons and are always supervised — especially at the beach. Unintentional drowning is the number one cause of death (aside from genetic anomalies) for children between the ages of one and four, so be vigilant.
3. Protect them from falls
Biking, rollerblading, and skateboarding are loads of fun for kids of many different ages, but all of these activities require protective gear like pads and helmets, so make sure you have what you need. Long sleeves and pants can help, too, and they’ll minimize abrasions from skids and falls.
4. Protect them from sports injuries
Some accidents are unavoidable, but you can be prepared. Buy proper protective gear and make sure it fits just right for best protection. You can also protect your child by bringing them to our offices for yearly physicals. Monitor your child’s sports activities so they don’t sustain repetitive use injuries from too much practice.
Protect their overall health
Before your kid leaves to play, make sure they’ve packed a water bottle. Hydration is a must in summer months! Keep an eye on their diet, and provide healthy snacks so they have energy and can build strong muscle and bone. Also ensure they’re getting enough sleep as days lengthen and nights shorten.
It’s common for parents to feel that they’re the only ones looking after their kids, and that responsibility can be overwhelming. However, a good pediatrician will work together with you to make sure your child is healthy and safe all year long.
Dr. Paliwal is happy to answer your questions and ease your concerns. To schedule a visit, call the location closest to you or send us a message online today.
