Summer is finally here -- bring on the outdoors! This time of year beckons us outside, whether to the cottage, beach, local park or backyard. It also means it’s time to review water- and sun-safety.
Water safety
Swimming: Use extreme caution when near water. Kids should always wear life jackets near pools or lakes, and they should never be out of your sight.
Drinking fluids: Children and adults need to stay hydrated, especially during hot summer months. Drinking lots of fluids, like water and diluted pure juices (at least half water), is key. Keep an eye on little ones to make sure they aren’t getting dehydrated; infrequent trips to the bathroom, or general weakness or fatigue, can indicate a need for increased fluids. When it comes to babies under six months of age, however, it is not necessary to offer extra water. Whatever he or she gets from breast milk or formula will do just fine. Once solid foods are introduced, some water in a cup is a good idea, but be careful not to fill an empty tummy before meals.
Sun provisions
Vitamin booster: The sun has been getting a lot of press lately for its relationship with Vitamin D, which has been touted as being everything from a bone-builder, cancer-preventer and infection-fighter. A little sun exposure is the best way to get this vitamin boost, but you do need to take precautions. You only need 5 to 30 minutes outdoors twice a week to benefit from Vitamin D, depending on the UV strength (the higher the rating, the less time it takes). Vitamin D has a hard time penetrating sunscreen higher than SPF 8, but experts say there is usually some exposed skin, like on hands, where it can get through. (Head to our archives for more info on vitamins and minerals.)
Sun damage: As we all know, too much sun exposure can damage skin. But, regular use of sunscreen will protect skin from uncomfortable burns and more serious conditions such as skin cancer. Health Canada states that it takes only 15 minutes for skin to burn, depending on skin type and UV rating (0-2 mins is fine; 3-7 mins requires protection; above 7 mins requires extreme caution). Applying a high-SPF sunscreen specifically made for kids is a definite for children over six months. Test it in a small area first to see if there’s any reaction. For those under six months, Health Canada advises against the application of sunscreen.
Skin protection also means staying in the shade -- such as under an umbrella at the beach -- and covering up with long sleeves and wide-brimmed hats (for you and baby). Many companies now make UV-protective stroller covers, which are excellent for sunny-day walks. As a rule, try to spend your outdoor time during non-peak hours: before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. If you can’t avoid these times, stay in the shade and cover up.
While staying cool and comfortable this season, don’t forget to eat well. Keep healthy snacks at the ready. Dried fruits and whole-grain crackers with nut butters (or nut-free spreads, if needed) are perfect for older kids; jarred pureed fruits and veggies travel well for baby.
To stay safe, hydrated and healthy this summer, drink plenty of fluids and hang out in the shade. With the right precautions, you and your baby are sure to enjoy one happy and carefree summer!
