The Parents Daily is your source for advice and information for rasing your kids.
Author: Susanne Myers Article source: http://www.articledeshboard.com/. Used with author's permission.
There is nothing more fun for kids on a hot summer day than to go for a swim in a pool, a lake or even the ocean. Unfortunately these summer months bring some new dangers to the safety and wellbeing of our kids that we need to make them aware off. Take moment to read through these summer safety tips, then take the proper precautions to make sure your kids can enjoy their summer vacation without the interruption of a trip to the doctor or the emergency room.
The Pool
Playing and swimming in a pool is a lot of fun, but there is also a good chance for your child to get hurt. Be sure to remind them that running around the pool is not a good idea. It's also a good idea to remind your child to not dive into any pool unless he is sure the pool is deep enough.
Lifeguards at the pool and signs around it letting you and your child know what they can and can't do in and around the pool are also there for safety. Remind your child to pay close attention to both.
If your child isn't a great swimmer yet, make sure he understands that he needs to either stay close to you, or wear some sort of floating device. Keep a close eye on young kids, even in shallow water. A toddler or preschooler can drown even in a few inches of water.
The Beach and Ocean
Much of the water safety information about the pool applies to the beach and ocean as well. But there are also some additional dangers including unpredictable weather and waves, as well as ocean wildlife. Make sure your child knows when it is and isn't safe to get in the ocean and to watch out for things like jelly fish. The waves can also make it more dangerous for a child that isn't an experienced swimmer yet. Staying with your child in the water or keeping them in shallow parts are the best ways to keep her save.
Since beaches can be vast and crowded, it's also a good idea to make sure your child knows where to find you, and what to do in case he gets lost. An extra lesson in not talking to and especially not going anywhere with strangers is also in order, since your child's guard may be down during the excitement of summer vacation.
The Sun and Heat
Last, but not least, you have to be aware of the sun and heat no matter where you are outside this summer. Make sure your kids are wearing sunscreen to avoid sunburn and encourage them to wear hats to protect the sensitive skin on the scalp (this is especially true for kids with light hair). Encourage your kids to play in the shade and wear a t-shirt if you think they have been exposed to the sun enough.
Dehydration is the other big summer health issue. Make sure your kids are drinking plenty of cool water throughout the day to prevent dehydration. Mix a little juice in with the water, or prepare and chill herbal teas to mix it up. Fruits like watermelon who are high in water, are another great way to rehydrate.
Keeping these few safety measures in mind, your kids and you will be more likely to enjoy the summer without a trip to the doctors office or hospital and have more time to play in the sun, at the beach and in the pool. Have a great summer.
For more great family tips and advice as well as product reviews, recall info, crafts, activities and coloring pages join ParentingZoo the new online parenting magazine at www.ParentingZoo.com
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