Tips for Keeping your Child Safe in the Summer Heat

We have been really enjoying the summer so far and both of our boys have been spending a lot of time playing outdoors. During the heat wave here in Vancouver it was too hot to be indoors and we tried to spend as much time in the backyard playing with water and in the splash pool. We also headed to the library, the mall and other places with AC to take breaks from the heat.

• Keeping little ones safe in the summer heat and knowing that they are very susceptible to the heat is important to remember. Watch out for the signs of heat stroke and if  they present any of them be sure to move them to a cool place and give them a drink right away.

Watch out for:

• Flushed Skin
• Sleepiness or Temper Tantrums
• Extreme Thirst
• Dizziness and Fainting
• Rapid Breathing and Heartbeat
• Nausea or Vomiting
• Headache

• Keep children hydrated by offering water before, during and after being outside in the heat, even if they are not thirsty!
• Ensure that your child is wearing loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothing when playing outside. Wearing a hat helps protect their face and neck and stay a bit cooler.
• Apply sunscreen to protect their skin 15-30 minutes before going outside and re-apply as needed.
• Limit outdoor play during peak heat times (11am-3pm)
• During extreme heat schedule fun activities to do indoors at places with AC like malls, science centres, community centres, library, stores, etc.
• Take advantage of pools, splash pools and water-parks to cool down.
• Never leave your child inside a car alone, it doesn’t matter how little time.
• If you are staying inside and your child is sweaty or uncomfortable give him a nice refreshing bath. We use Kandoo BrightFoam Body-wash because it is colourful and fun and it’s super moisturizing. Perfect for my toddler’s bath before bedtime.

More tips for protecting your baby from the sun HERE.

How do you keep your little one cool during the summer heat? Share your tips below!