A Lion’s Guide to Summer Safety – And Maximum Fun!
Summer is here, and for many families with young children, it means fun in the sun, beach days, and exciting travels! To help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable season, here are some essential tips to keep your little ones protected.
Sun Protection: Keep Those Rays at Bay!
Sunburn can be painful and dangerous, especially for delicate young skin. Here’s how to keep your family protected.
- Sunscreen is Your Friend: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher generously to all exposed skin at least 15-30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
- Dress for Success: Wear lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants made from UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) fabric. Wide-brimmed hats are also crucial for protecting faces, ears, and necks. Shorts and t-shirts are fine, too, as long as you wear plenty of sunscreen!
- Seek Shade: The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM. Plan your outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day, and always look for natural shade or bring an umbrella.
- Hydration is Key: Encourage your children to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, especially when spending time outdoors.
Beach Safety: Sandcastles, Sunshine, and the Sea!
Beach days are the cornerstone of a memorable summer, and here are some tips to make sure your little ones enjoy every second of them.
- Supervision: When near the water, children should be strongly supervised. Be aware of where they are at all times!
- Swim Safely: If your child isn’t a strong swimmer, ensure they wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Teach them about rip currents and how to float if caught in one.
- Designated Swimming Areas: Only swim in areas with lifeguards on duty and follow all posted rules and flags.
- Sand Smart: Be aware of hot sand that can burn little feet. Also, teach children not to dig deep holes that could collapse.
- Ocean Awareness: Explain to children about waves and tides. Always enter the water feet first and never turn your back on the ocean.
Travel Safety: Adventures Await!
Whether it’s a road trip or a flight, safe travels are happy travels!
- Car Seat Safety: Ensure car seats are properly installed and your child is correctly buckled in according to their age, height, and weight.
- Child-Proof Your Destination: If staying in a new place, take a moment to child-proof the area. Look for potential hazards like accessible outlets, sharp objects, and unsecured windows.
- Emergency Information: Carry a list of emergency contacts, your pediatrician’s number, and any relevant medical information for your children.
- Plan for Breaks: On long journeys, plan frequent breaks for stretching, snacks, and bathroom visits to prevent restlessness and ensure everyone stays comfortable.
- Stranger Danger: Remind children about stranger danger and what to do if they get lost in a crowded place. Agree on a meeting point if separated.
So, if you’re heading outdoors, going to the beach, or going on a family vacation, take these tips with you! And if you choose to stay home…
Join the Little Lions Club This Summer!
Here at the Little Lions Club, we pride ourselves on prioritizing the experience of the child in our soccer classes. Whether it’s at one of our Quarterpath Rec Center Classes in Williamsburg, or at one of our many schools across Virginia, each Little Lion gets to play their way through our fun, experiential games. Plus, they’re always kept safe by trained coaches who follow all the rules listed! We’ll see you this Summer, and if you’re on vacation, next Fall!