July is in full swing, and here at Stone Springs Pediatrics, we know that means warmer weather, more outdoor play, and lots of family fun! But with all that excitement comes a few important safety considerations to keep your little ones thriving all summer long.

We’ve put together a quick summer safety checklist to help you navigate the season with confidence.

 

Hydration is Key!

 

The summer heat in Northern Virginia can be intense, and children are especially susceptible to dehydration.

• Offer water frequently: Don’t wait for them to ask! Have water bottles readily available, especially during active play.

• Encourage water-rich foods: Fruits like watermelon, strawberries, and oranges are excellent for hydration.

• Watch for signs of dehydration: Dry mouth, infrequent urination, lethargy, or excessive thirst are all red flags. If you’re concerned, don’t hesitate to call us.

Sun Smarts for Sunny Days

 

Protecting your child’s skin from the sun’s harmful rays is crucial, even on cloudy days.

• Sunscreen is a must: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher liberally to all exposed skin at least 15-30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.

• Seek shade: Encourage playtime in shaded areas, especially during peak sun hours (10 AM to 4 PM).

• Dress for success: Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing and wide-brimmed hats offer excellent sun protection.

• Protect their eyes: Sunglasses that block 99-100% of UVA and UVB rays are important for protecting developing eyes.

Water Safety: Splash Smart!

 

Pools, lakes, and even kiddie pools can pose risks if proper precautions aren’t taken.

• Constant supervision: Never leave children unattended near water, even for a moment. Designate a “water watcher” who is not distracted.

• Swimming lessons: Enroll your child in age-appropriate swimming lessons. While not a substitute for supervision, they can provide crucial water safety skills.

• Fences and alarms: Ensure your pool has proper fencing with self-latching gates and consider pool alarms.

• Life jackets: Children who are not strong swimmers should always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when on boats or near open bodies of water.

Bug Bites and Beyond

 

Summer often means more encounters with insects.

• Insect repellent: Use EPA-registered insect repellents when spending time outdoors, especially in areas with tall grass or standing water. Follow directions carefully for children.

• Check for ticks: After outdoor activities, thoroughly check your child’s skin and hair for ticks. If you find one, remove it carefully with tweezers and monitor the bite area.

• Allergy awareness: If your child has known insect allergies, ensure you have an emergency plan and necessary medications readily available.

Keeping Cool Indoors

 

Even when staying inside, it’s important to manage the heat.

• Air conditioning or fans: Keep your home cool with air conditioning or fans.

• Lightweight sleepwear: Dress children in lightweight clothing for sleep.

• Cool baths: A cool bath or shower before bedtime can help lower body temperature.

We hope these tips help you and your family have a wonderful and safe summer! As always, if you have any concerns about your child’s health, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Chantilly Pediatrics. We’re here to help!

Stone Springs Pediatrics: Partnering in Your Child’s Health Journey