I’m in Ireland. In Ireland the sun doesn’t shine so brightly that much. We did have a glorious heat wave last July just as I started my career break and now, as my year comes to an end we are experiencing another one. There will be more on the career break status coming soon but in the meantime I am going to enjoy this nice weather.
However, before I go off to enjoy myself I am going to take a moment to remember some of the important when dealing with kids in the warm weather – particularly when they are not used to it.
Sun cream
Sounds obvious but it is amazing how many people will lash on the sun cream when on holidays abroad but because they are at home, in Ireland, they will not put it on. It is something that is usually bought to be thrown in the suitcase but when the sun comes out, even in Ireland, it is important to have a bottle of SPF Factor 50+ in the cupboard to apply.
I don’t have a brand of choice. It is important to just ensure that the brand meets all the European requirements in terms of protection so watch out for half price or buy one get one free offers in your local supermarket or pharmacy.
This morning I had to apply sun cream to all three kids before they headed off to school but it is worth those extra few minutes to ensure they are not going to get burnt while out playing at break time.
Water, water and more water
It is so important to keep kids hydrated. They dehydrate fast and even in moderately warm weather can feel the effects of dehydration faster than adults so keep them well hydrated with lots of water or other liquids.
Water Safety
On the topic of water, in the fine weather there is nothing better than to head for the beach or blow up that paddling pool that has been gathering dust in the garden shed. I live a couple of minutes from the beach and my kids love nothing but to wade into the water. Unfortunately in last year’s heat wave a number of people lost their lives through drowning. Don’t find yourself in that situation. If you have a child anywhere near water by all means let them have fun but keep your eyes on them. It can happen in an instant and in very shallow water.
Overheating
Cars become like ovens in this type of weather. There have been many a tragedy around the world after a child has been left, even for a short time, in a hot car and then been found dead. While it can take a few minutes to take them in or out of a shop better to be safe than sorry particularly when it is hot out.
Shade and rest
This weather is tiring for the best of us so ensure the kids come in and take a break from the sun. Seeking shade in the middle of the day is always the advice and while we may not want to miss out these precious sun rays it will pay off to take a few minutes away from the height of the heat.
Taking heed of the above will mean a very enjoyable few days of warmth and sunshine. Right, I’m off to get ready for a trip to the beach when the kids get in from school!
Enjoy and be safe!
I am amazed watching my kids in this heat. I agree with all of your points and they should all be taken on board. My kids are that bit older so can complain/tell me if and when they are uncomfortable etc BUT they don’t go outside at all until about 6pm. They lounge around inside watching TV and once it gets cooler, they go out. They drink without prompt and shed their clothes to their requirements. The fruit bowl is being attacked in favour of dinners etc. However, it can be a struggle to get the sun block on two of them. I have to resort to devious measures i.e bribery with ice-creams!
Wonderful Wagon recently posted…Wonderful Wagon Got a Mug!
Yes the sun block bates are fun times 🙂
Good reminder about staying hydrated – I definitely don’t think of that often enough. And yes they do get so tired! My 5 year old gets really cross in the heat. I can kind of zone out though, once I’m sitting in the sun 😉
office mum recently posted…Adventures in sun-cream application (product review – La Roche-Posay)
Tired AND cranky in this house! But wouldn’t change the weather for anything! Love it!
[…] you caught my tips on keeping kids safe in the sun last year you will know that one of my ‘musts’ is to keep kids hydrated. The fact is […]
It’s true that kids are more at risk for dehydration than adults and it can be more serious. Strap the water to their wrists with swiggies, wrist water bottles and they will always have it handy. You can also freeze them to lower body temperature in the heat.