Summer time brings lots of strolls in the park, visiting Zoos and festivals, and (hopefully) some hot weather, all of which can pose a danger to your child.
Parenting on Female First
We’re bringing you some handy tips from Clippasafe on how to keep your child safe whilst still enjoying all the joys summer brings!
1. Don’t Forget the Sun Cream
Children love to play outside when the weather warms up but it’s easy to forget that they have more sensitive skin than adults and burn much more easily. Apply sun cream at least 20 minutes before playtime and remember to use a higher factor with better protection. Sun creams with SPF 30 or 50 are best for young children, but if these aren’t available, a minimum of SPF 15 should be used. Remember to follow manufacturer’s recommendations and reapply regularly, especially between 11am and 3pm when the sun is at its hottest.
2. Keep Hydrated
Playing in the sunshine can be thirsty work! Always keep a drink or two at hand to keep youngsters happy and hydrated on your travels – and it’s always a good idea to pack a supply of healthy snacks to keep hunger at bay too.
3. Safe-proof the Garden
Gardens become an intriguing summertime playground for inquisitive little ones but they can also conceal a wealth of hazards. Ensure all play equipment is in tip top order and remove any dangerous work tools that might catch a curious eye.
4. Beat the Bugs
The warm weather brings a host of bothersome flies and insects, increasing the potential spread of diseases. To prevent your child from being bitten by pesky bugs it’s worth investing in an insect net to fit around the hood and body of a pram or carrycot so babies and toddlers can doze in peace.
5. Supervised Swimming
Paddling pools are a fun way to cool off in the heat, but remember that young children can drown in just an inch of water. Never let a child play in or near water unsupervised and make sure you empty paddling pools after use.
6. Keep Them Close
It’s easy to lose sight of little ones when heading to busy attractions in the summertime. Reins or wrist links will give toddlers a sense of freedom, whilst making sure they don’t wander too far from mum or dad.
7. Stay Shady
Car journeys don’t have to be an ordeal and it’s easy to take small measures to ensure a comfortable journey is enjoyed by all. Fit sun blinds to windows to keep little ones shaded and prevent nasty burns. Clippasafe’s Fun Sunscreens are cute as well as practical and available for just £3.49.
8. Keep Cool
Even on cooler days, temperatures in vehicles can rise to dangerous levels, hitting up to 40°C hotter than outside. Never leave children in a vehicle unsupervised and when travelling, ensure that air is circulating and passengers are hydrated.
9. Heat-proof the Home
Don’t forget about home safety as the summer hots up. Lock balcony doors when little ones are around and fit latches to windows to prevent tiny hands from pushing them open too far. Keep a close eye on the temperature of your baby’s nursery – ideally it should be around 18°C – a nursery thermometer will keep toddler temperatures in check this summer.
Have you got any safety tips for the summer? Let us know by commenting below or tweeting us @FemaleFirst_UK
Tagged in Safety Parenting Advice Parenting Tips Child Safety