How to "bug-off" and Stay Cool this summer!
Another great school year has ended and summer is upon us! Can you hear the yay from the kiddos and the groan from the mommies/daddies?!?
Here are some tips to review to make sure that we all have a great, safe, and fun summer!
As you know, living in Texas means our summers are hot! So the number one key thing to do is to hydrate by drinking plenty of water at least 6-8 glasses of 8 oz water per day.
Also another important task is to wear sunscreen SPF 30 to prevent sunburns. When you do get a sunburn, best way to treat is with aloe vera cream that can be bought over the counter. Please make sure to avoid going outside when there is direct sun to prevent over heating yourself. Best time is to go out in the mornings or evenings.
A great way to cool off from the heat is the pool, beach, or lake. We want to ensure that everyone is safe while playing and swimming in the water by having an adult supervise all children even if there is a lifeguard at all times. Unfortunately, drownings can happen; so parents and guardians please do not step away from the pool even for a few seconds to answer a phone call. American academy of pediatrics recommend that all children above the age of 1 year get formal swimming lessons. Parents and guardians are also encouraged to take CPR classes. If you have a pool at home, make sure you have a 4 sided fence that is 4 feet tall around the pool and keep it locked at all times.
Now let's talk about those bugs! Say hello to those pesky mosquitoes! (Ummm...no thank you - bug off!). The best way to treat is to prevent them. Make sure to wear long sleeve shirts and long sleeve pants and spray self with OFF spray including DEET to prevent mosquito transmitted diseases. Once you acquire a mosquito bite, you can treat it with hydrocortisone 1% topical ointment bought over the counter to help with the itching, redness, and swelling.
If you want to enjoy summer by staying inside and avoiding the heat, you can do that as well! Make sure to visit your local libraries because there are great summer reading programs. Books are a great escape for everyone because a good book will take you on an adventure of a lifetime. Also it will keep kids away from screens i.e. TV, computer, phones, and ipads. A little screen break and family time is always awesome! Don't ya think?!?
The family can also visit the great museums in DFW area. Make sure to check out their websites because on certain days you can get free admissions. Another great place for children in the summers are camps and the local YMCA.
Whatever you do this summer, we at Pediatric and Adolescent Center of Grand Prairie & Arlington
wish everyone a fun-filled and safe summer! Make sure to come visit us to get your well checks and immunizations prior to our back to school rush. Also come check us out on July 28th for our back to school fair to get free school supplies and visit with our many vendors.
