5 Tips For A Safe And Happy Summer
Few people complain about the arrival of summer. Most welcome the blazing sun and warm weather with open arms, especially those who are geographically located in areas that experience bitterly cold winter weather! School breaks and family holidays enable parents to enjoy precious time with their children during the summer. The summer always brings a positive vibe and provides great opportunities for endless activities. However, there are also many things to keep in mind when enjoying the summer heat. Here are five things to keep in mind this summer.
Cover up
Although many of us find ourselves busy enjoying activities in the sunshine, we have to keep in mind the consequences of over exposure. These risks are significant for adults, and are even more prominent for children. When enjoying a play day at the park or packing up and enjoying family vacation, it is important to keep your children covered from the sun. Make sure you take the time to prepare yourselves for the heat and sun exposure. Keep the sun off the skin by dressing your children in light, loose fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs. Hats are a great way to keep the sun off of your face and neck and sunglasses are crucial for protecting your eyes from the sun’s UV rays. And when your skin is exposed, remember to lather yourself and your children with at least 30SPF sunscreen. Look to do your activities in shady spots where you are not in direct sunlight. Staying protected from the sun will help prevent skin cancer, accelerated aging and painful sunburns!
Get Active
Covering up certainly doesn’t mean we have to hide inside our houses. Many children today spend the majority of their time inside. With the progression that technology has made, children fill their spare time with playing video games, watching television or messaging friends on their phones or iPods. Staying active is very important both physically and mentally. Encourage your children to get outside and play by limiting screen time and by supporting the exploration of the great outdoors. Staying active releases endorphins which are extremely healthy for both body and mind. Take some time and find some fun activities to keep your children active.
Stay Hydrated
While staying active is very important, staying hydrated is also extremely important. When active your body has to work harder to perform, and you can dehydrate quickly, especially in hot temperatures. Water performs three major tasks: it carry’s nutrients to cells, removes waste from our organs and helps control our body temperature. Studies have shown that children should drink at least 4-6 cups of water per day. It is important to keep your children hydrated, as dehydration can result in sickness and in severe cases can even cause damage to different sections of the body. Get your children in a good routine early, not being forceful, but by stressing the importance of their actions and by encouraging them to drink water frequently. When properly hydrated, children will feel great, having more energy and typically being in a happier mood overall. Stay Hydrated to Stay Healthy
Eat Right
Another thing your body craves is a healthy diet. As a young child your body is mid-swing of the development process. The food you fill your body plays a major role in this process. When staying active, children will burn many calories and exhaust the muscles throughout the body. Making healthy choices can really benefit your children and all starts with a good breakfast, which allows your metabolism to get started. Gather a few wholesome & filling breakfast ideas and get your children started right everyday. Take the time to set the right priorities and routines to ensure you children are eating the way they should.
Sleep
The older we get, the more we realize how much we need our sleep. Sleep keeps us going everyday and the proper amount of structured sleep also plays a huge role in children’s development. Children often try to push the limit when it comes to naptime or bedtime, however parents should ensure that their children received enough rest. It’s important to establish a proper routine and sleeping pattern to make sure they are getting the hours of sleep they need. This will keep your children more alert throughout the day, allowing them to develop to their full potential. Keep in mind that when your children are used to a structured sleeping routine, making the odd exception when something comes up can be made with little if any consequences.