Yay! It’s spring! It’s (almost) time to trade the winter boots for flip-flops. As the days get warmer and longer, we wanted to remind you of a few outdoor safety tips. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
Sun safety
The warm sun can feel welcome after being cooped up during cooler months. It provides Vitamin D and is important for your child’s health, happy mind and mood. Even though it’s not as hot as July, the sun can still have an unexpected effect on your child’s skin. Make sure your children wear sunscreen—even when it’s cloudy. Wearing a hat is a good idea for sunburn protection as well.
Insect bites
The kids are back outside, and so are the bugs. They are, unfortunately, another sign of spring. Make sure your child stays covered up at dusk, and don’t forget the bug spray. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that repellents contain no more than 30% DEET, and children under 2 months of age should not be sprayed with insect repellent. For more information, check out these additional guidelines. If your child is bitten by an insect and experiences swelling, faintness, vomiting, or difficulty breathing, contact our office (or immediate care) right away.
Spring allergies
Allergies are one of the most common spring health issues. Up to 40 percent of children in the United States suffer from seasonal allergies, and they can develop them at any time. Common symptoms include repetitive sneezing, heavy breathing, runny nose, and itchy eyes, ears and throat. If you suspect your child’s “cold” is something more, give us a call.
Don’t forget those helmets
You already know how important helmets are to your child’s safety when biking or rollerblading. Helmets help protect them against serious injury and death. While you’re dusting off the rollerblades, scooter and bikes, do a quick helmet check too. Make sure they fit correctly and replace any that are too small or cracked or broken.
Keep an eye out while driving
Because it’s nice outside, your children – and all the neighborhood children – will probably be outside and running around. Take extra precautions while driving through your neighborhood and other neighborhoods, and keep an eye out for balls rolling toward the road, or pets that aren’t properly leashed that could dash in front of your car. Often these objects will have a young child following closely behind.
Playground refresher
Now that it’s warmer outside, your little one will want to play on your backyard swingset or head to the local school or playground. Now’s a good time to remind them of playground safety rules; things like going down the slide feet first, holding onto railings, sitting (not standing) on swings, and waiting their turn. Take a quick scan of the equipment to make sure there aren’t any hot surfaces or wood splinters (ouch!) waiting for the unsuspecting climber.
From all of us at Village Pediatrics & Rheumatology, here’s wishing your family a safe & healthy spring!
