How To Help Your Little One Feel Their Best This Summer

Summer is a time for relaxation and fun, but it can also come with its own set of challenges, especially for young children. As a parent, it’s important to ensure that your little ones are happy and healthy during the summer months. Here are some tips on how you can help your little one feel their best this summer.

1. Stay Hydrated and Maintain a Healthy Diet

One of the number one rules for your child during the summer is to make sure they stay hydrated. Encourage them to sip on water throughout the day, especially if they are playing outside in the sun. Offer water-rich fruits and vegetables such as strawberries, watermelon, cucumbers, and lettuce for an additional boost of hydration throughout the day.

A healthy diet is important year-round, but it’s especially important during the summer months when your child may be more active. Make sure they avoid sugary drinks and snacks and opt for healthy alternatives such as water, fruit, and yogurt. Probiotics for kids, daily vitamins, and other supplements can also be incorporated into their daily routine for an extra boost.

2. Protect Their Skin

Sunburns are painful and can increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. Make sure your child wears sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 and reapply it every two hours or after swimming. Dress them in lightweight, protective clothing and hats to provide extra protection from the sun. Lightweight sun shirts are also great for pool time and offer a more durable layer of protection from the sun’s harsh rays.

3. Encourage Outdoor Play

Getting outside and playing is important for your child’s physical and mental health. It can be tempting to lie around in the air conditioning watching television all day, but place limits on their screen time, so this is less attractive. Encourage them to play outdoors, go for walks, and explore nature. Consider taking them to a local park or playground or organizing a family bike ride.

4. Maintain a Routine and Prioritize Sleep

There’s often less structure and routine during the summer, but it’s important to maintain some level of consistency for your child. This can help them feel more secure and less anxious. Consider creating a loose schedule for each day that includes meal times, playtime, and nap or quiet time.

Sleep is essential for your child’s growth and development, and it’s important to maintain a consistent sleep schedule during the summer. Encourage them to head to bed and get up at the same time each day to help them stick to their sleeping routine. Make a calming bedtime routine, such as taking a bath or reading a book, to help them wind down and fall asleep. This will also make it easier for them to get back into the swing of things when school starts up again.

5. Be Prepared for Emergencies

Swimming is a popular summer activity, and it’s important to practice water safety to prevent accidents. Make sure your child knows how to swim and is always supervised while in or around water. Invest in life jackets or floatation devices for young children who may not yet know how to swim. If you haven’t already, enroll them in swimming lessons.

Even with the best preparation, accidents of all sorts can still happen. Make sure you have a first-aid kit on hand for minor injuries such as cuts and scrapes. Remember the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and take action immediately if your child exhibits any symptoms.

6. Take Advantage of Learning Opportunities

Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean learning has to stop. Take advantage of some of the many educational opportunities available during the summer, such as visiting museums, participating in summer reading programs, or taking a class or workshop. Facilities like this frequently offer free admission for children a few days a week, making summer outings like these accessible for families of all income levels.

7. Allow for Unstructured Play

While it’s important to maintain some level of routine and structure, it’s also important to allow for unstructured playtime. This can help foster creativity, imagination, and independence in your child. Provide them with open-ended toys such as blocks, art supplies, or dress-up clothes, and let them explore and play on their own.

Feelin’ Fine This Summertime

Summer is a time for children to play and explore, but it’s also important for parents to prioritize their child’s physical and mental well-being. By following the tips outlined in this article, parents can help their little ones feel their best this summer.

From staying hydrated and protecting their skin from the sun to engaging in outdoor activities and managing screen time, there are many ways parents can ensure their child has a healthy and happy summer. With a few small adjustments, you can create an environment that fosters your child’s growth and development, allowing them to enjoy all the wonderful experiences summer has to offer and create memories to last a lifetime.

Sources:

• Sunscreen and Sun Protection | Nationwide Children’s
• The Importance of Routines for Kids | Zero to Thrive