Summer is in full swing, which means that like us, you’re likely spending more time enjoying the great outdoors! However, it’s especially important to remember these Summer safety tips before you head outside. These Summer safety tips will keep both kids and adults happy, safe, and having fun!
Always Protect Your Skin
I didn’t follow this rule well enough when I was younger — I often went skimpy on the sunscreen, hoping to get that “golden glow,” but I usually just ended up with painful “lobster skin” instead!
My girls have grown up knowing that slathering on the sunscreen is a part of our routine. Even Lilu, who has a beautiful natural tan, gets SPF 30 like the rest of us! Mateo used to be stubborn (“I’m dark…I won’t burn”) but I’ve seen him suffer for it! Now he sets a good example and applies it as well — and even if you don’t burn, the sun will still damage your skin.
Though the invisible sprays are super convenient and easy to apply, I still prefer lotion — I feel like it protects better (I got a nasty case of sun poisoning two years ago using a spray that was supposedly SPF 100). We use California Baby SPF 30 Plus Sunscreen
— it’s formulated for sensitive skin so we were able to use on both an infant and a child with eczema with great results (no burns and no irritation!)
Check the Yard for Pests
Our backyard borders a creek, and quite a few critters seem to stray past the fence from time to time. Some are harmless, like the crawfish who burrow deep in the mud. However, there are the occasional ant colonies or even snakes that try to set up shop in our play space! Before we take the girls out back, Mateo and I always do a quick sweep of the yard for any unwanted visitors.
Don’t Forget the Bug Spray
Mosquitos are a part of life in Texas, and in many other parts of the South as well, and they can be ruthless! With diseases like West Nile Virus, you can’t be too careful, plus mosquito bites are just plain miserable. We always apply a liberal coat of EcoSMART Organic Insect Repellent
— it smells fantastic, it works, and it is surprisingly affordable for an organic option!
Take a Water Break
Every thirty minutes or so, bring the gang inside to cool off and rehydrate — even if you’re swimming (you can still sweat and become dehydrated in the pool!) Have everyone enjoy a cold glass of water (skip the sugary juices and sodas!) before going back outside to play.
Heat exhaustion is dangerous, and kids don’t always know or think to tell you if they’re feeling tired or overheated, or they might not say anything because they want to keep playing. It’s up to you to make sure that they rest and recharge on a regular basis.
Never Leave the Kids Alone Around Water
Not even for a second! Even if they’re not swimming! It’s just not worth the risk. Our family will probably never forget the time my toddler-aged brother slipped and fell in my grandparents’ pool. If my parents hadn’t been sitting right there (my dad dove in fully clothed), the outcome could have been very different.
Summer is a wonderful time of year, full of fun and adventure! Just be sure to keep summer safety tips in mind!
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