Summer is in full swing and the days are long and hot. Infants and children are very sensitive to the heat and rely on you to help prevent heat related illnesses. Do you know how to keep them cool and hydrated?
On very hot days children should be dressed in comfortable, light colored, loose fitting clothing. A hat or umbrella can be good ideas to shield tiny heads and faces from the sun. Water is a good way to stay hydrated and is much better for kids than sugary drinks like soda. Offer cool not ice cold water which can cause stomach cramps. It’s also important for children to eat during the heat. Encourage small light snacks not big heavy hot meals. If it is too hot you should really try and limit the time in the heat. Make sure that kids get a chance to cool off whether it is in an air conditioned building or by applying cool, wet cloths to the skin, or by misting with cool water. Running through sprinklers is one of the best summertime activities to stay cool and have fun at the same time.
Always use common sense and realize that if you are feeling the heat, the kids you are watching are feeling it too. Stay safe and have fun!
