As the days get warmer and longer, help children stay safe by following these simple tips. Obtain written permission from parents or guardians to administer medicine, lotions, or sprays.
- Prepare and take a first aid kit wherever you go. Always include medication children need and emergency contact information. Regularly replenish Band-Aids and other materials for cuts and scrapes.
- Schedule outdoor play time to avoid the sun’s peak hours, which are generally between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Make sure children have access to shade and plenty of drinking water when outside.
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30. Apply to children’s exposed skin at least 15 minutes before heading outside, even on cloudy days. Reapply every 2 hours and after children get wet.
- Apply insect repellent if children spend time near areas with biting insects. Read and follow instructions carefully. Do not use repellent with more than 30 percent DEET.
- Supervise children at all times during water play. Create guidelines with children and enforce them during play, such as no running near water or splashing other children.
For more information:
- “Summer Safety Tips,” by the American Academy of Pediatrics. 2012. www.healthychildren.org/English/news/Pages/Summer-Safety-Tips-Staying-SafeOutdoors.aspx.
- Healthy Young Children: A Manual for Programs, 5th ed. 2012. Edited by Susan S. Aronson. www.naeyc.org/store/HealthyYoung-Children-5th-Ed.
- “Sun Safety,” by Sue Mankiw, Teaching Young Children 4 (5): 22–25. www.naeyc.org/tyc/fi les/tyc/fi le/V4N5/Sun_safety.pdf
Information obtained from Naeyc - Teaching Young Children, Vol 6, No 5
