The kids will want to spend more time outside as winter turns into spring. Sports, games, and picnics are all great fun for small and big kids alike, and being outside is good for their physical and mental health.
However, kids sometimes like to test their boundaries and strength and may overlook certain aspects of their environment. The good news is that there are simple things you can do to educate your children and keep them safe. This post explores some essential tips for ensuring kids’ outdoor safety.
Keep Them Supervised
The easiest way to ensure outdoor safety for kids is to keep a close eye on them as they use play equipment or run around the yard or playground. This is especially true with younger children who might not be aware of potential hazards or could wander off after something that catches their attention.
If you need to pop inside for a minute or two, take your little one with you. In addition to ensuring their safety, this will give them an opportunity to get out of the sun, grab a drink of water, get a snack, or reapply sunscreen.
Be Careful of the Sun
Speaking of sunscreen, kids are at increased risk of sunburn during the summer months, so make sure that they regularly apply sunscreen, drink water, and wear suitable clothing, including glasses and hats. Limit the time they spend outside during the hours when the sun is at its strongest (between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.). If you go out for a picnic, set your table in a shaded area to offer extra protection while they rest.
Educate Your Child about Potential Dangers
Kids are often so focused on conquering trees and playing games that they forget about potential dangers. If they are playing near a road, educate them about the risks of passing vehicles and the importance of road safety if they go after a ball that has gone over the fence.
Setting boundaries is important from as young an age as possible.
Identify Any Risks around the House
When your family emerges from its winter hibernation, you’ll want to check the play equipment, decking, and other surfaces to make sure that there are no loose screws, bolts, or anything that could hurt the kids. Also, identify any potentially dangerous climbing risks that may tempt young adventurers.
If you are installing any new play equipment, ensure that you follow the safety instructions and that it is securely installed so it doesn’t tip over or create potential hazards such as tripping or slipping for the kids when they start using it.
Make Sure Your Pool is Safe
Drowning is a top cause of death among young children. Whether you have a full-size swimming pool or an inflatable kiddie pool during the summer, you need to ensure that your kids are supervised and have protective measures in place.
If you have a swimming pool, putting a safety fence with a locked gate around it can keep curious little ones out. Also, make sure you empty kiddie pools after use.
Don’t Let the Bugs Bite
During the summer months, bugs come out to play, and they love to say hi! You can prevent bug bites and stings by avoiding bright-colored clothing and scented soaps. Bright-colored clothing attracts bees and wasps, which may sting little ones if they get scared when the bee comes close.
Ticks and mosquitos can also be nuisances and can carry potential illnesses such as Lyme disease. Wearing dark clothing, long-sleeved shirts, and pants can minimize the risk of bites, as can using child-friendly insect repellant.
Enjoy the Outdoors Safely
With supervision and planning, the great outdoors offers infinite opportunities for fun, learning, and exercise. If you would like advice on how to best protect your children in the great outdoors, contact us today to book an appointment with one of our board-certified pediatricians.