Here Comes the Sun: Ways to Keep Your Preschooler Safe
One of the most challenging things about living in Arizona isn’t the scorpions, traffic, or the rising cost of housing…it’s the sun! With a warmer-than-average climate that encourages us to wear less clothing (shorter sleeves, shorts, sandals, etc.) residents are at high risk for skin cancer and other sun-related issues.
Small children and babies have very delicate skin that needs to be protected from UVA and UVB rays. Fortunately, there are some basic precautions that you can take:
Mind the Peak. Keep children out of the sun during the peak hours of 10 am – 4 pm. Find shade whenever possible if you are going to be out. Frequent parks and other facilities that have cover such as awnings, and check out indoor play areas.
Cover Up. Dress your child in clothing that you can’t see through. Longer sleeves and pants work best, but we know that during the summer months that can be tough. Check out some of the UPF rated clothing which is typically lighter weight and more comfortable.
Accessorize. Wide-brimmed hats (baseball caps need not apply!) help protect the tough-to-cover spots like ears and the back of the neck which are often neglected. Look for tight-weaved hats that fasten under the chin to make it less likely it will fly off, out the window, or across the playground or park. And those same UV rays also affect the eyes, so get a pair (or 2) of sunglasses for your preschooler. Look for 99 to 100 percent UVA/UVB protection, large lenses, and a wraparound style. For smaller children you may want to consider an eyeglass leash that can secure the glasses to your child’s head, making them more comfortable, effective, and less likely to get lost!
Slather It On. Use sunscreen and lots of it! No matter what brand you choose there are a few key components in finding the right sunscreen. Make sure it is broad-spectrum with a minimum of SPF 30 (a lot of experts recommend SPF 50). Lotions tend to work best because they can be applied to very specific areas like the back of the neck, and the tops of ears, hands, and feet. Anyone who has ever had a sunburn on those areas knows all too well how quickly they burn! And sunscreen should not be a “special occasion” item. No matter if you are at the playground, on a hike, or simply running errands, make sure you lather up before leaving the house. However, if there is a baby on board, use caution as it is not generally recommended that infants wear sunscreen. Instead, cover them up, find shade, and dress them in a hat and glasses for the best protection.
Now that you have your preschooler ready to hit the park or playground, it helps to be aware of another challenge in Arizona…the heat. As temperatures rise, so does the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Here are a few tips on how to recognize, and treat heat-related symptoms:
Stay Informed. Find out what the weather is going to be like before you make plans. That hike isn’t such a good idea when the temperatures start rising upwards of 100 degrees.
Stay Inside: Develop a plan to keep cool when the temperatures soar. Try activities that are inside and air-conditioned and limit outdoor time.
Stay Hydrated: When it is very hot this is the time to increase fluids. Don’t wait until either of you are thirsty to have a drink. Water is best, and remember that caffeine (soda, coffee, etc) dehydrates you. Certain foods can also help keep you hydrated, such as watermelon, berries and grapefruit, sugar-free popsicles, cucumbers, lettuce, and plain yogurt. Doubling down by drinking water and consuming some of these foods can ensure good hydration.
Stay On Top of Symptoms. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke present differently. Heat exhaustion = weakness, cold, clammy skin, nausea or vomiting, or fainting. Heatstroke = high body temperature (104 degrees or higher), hot, red, dry, or moist skin, rapid pulse, and possible unconsciousness. For either, seek medical attention immediately.
Having a plan of action and a little knowledge can make all the difference when dealing with the brutal Arizona summers. Here’s to a happy, and healthy summer season!