Keeping Kids Safe During Summer Fun

Summer is a time for kids to enjoy a little more freedom and fun. Kids look forward to school ending so that they can sleep in, participate in their favorite activities, or spend more time with friends. Our job as parents is to make sure to keep them safe. Follow these safety tips to enjoy a summer of fun with your children.

Water Safety is Essential

The warm months of the year often include fun water activities but kids need to know that water can be dangerous. Talk to your kids about not swimming alone or in any hazardous conditions. Make sure your children know that it is never okay to hold another person underwater, get too rowdy, push others into the water, or jump / dive into shallow water. If your child doesn’t know how to swim yet, it may be the perfect time to sign up for a swim class. If your older child is interested in becoming a lifeguard, they could take a lifeguard class. Prepare your kids to know what to do if they ever see someone in trouble in the water or have a swimming-related emergency. Young children should never be left around water unattended.

Wear Sunscreen

No one enjoys getting sunburnt. Stock up on sunscreen and keep a bottle in your vehicle. Teach your kids that the best way to prevent sunburn and skin damage from the sun is to wear sunscreen every day. Get your kids into the habit of putting sunscreen on in the morning when getting ready for the day.

Wear a Helmet

Riding bikes, rollerblading, and skateboarding are popular summer activities. Make sure kids wear a helmet during any activities where they could fall and hit their head. Set a good example by doing the same yourself.

Beware of Dehydration

It is easy to forget to stay hydrated when having fun. Pack a water bottle for your kids every day and remind them to make sure to drink enough water throughout the day. Teach them that if they don’t feel well, to alert someone, drink water, and rest.

Know Where Your Kids Are

Make sure to always know where your children are and who they are with. Younger children need constant supervision and need to have a good caregiver watching them. Older children need to understand that communication is key and to let you know what they are doing. Many cell phones have location tracking services on them now but it is still important to have good communication with your children.

Have Rules

Make sure your children know what your expectations are. Be clear with them so they know what the rules are and what happens if they break them. Talk to them about safety concerns and precautions. Having good communication with your kids will help keep them safe and enjoy their summer vacation.