Keeping Your Kids healthy and injury-free in the Summer

Know what to do when your kids come running with a bruise, a burn, or a bug bite.

Prevent. Always slather your kids with at least SPF 30 before they run out the door so it has time to sink in, and reapply every 2 hours or so. However, sunscreen is not recommended for babies under 6 months, so make sure you keep your little one in the shade. If you can, have the whole family stay in the shade from 10am - 2pm, when the sun is the strongest, or, at least throw a shirt over your kids' bathing suits during these hours.

Kids not too keen on slathering up? Make it a dance each time they have to apply, or give them a clean paint brush and let them paint themselves.
Treat. If sunburn should occur, apply cool cloths and aloe vera gel over the affected area. Rest and keep out of the sun.

Prevent. There are now several products that combine sunscreen with bug repellent (and they don't smell all that awful). If you're eating outside, light a citronella candle. Hikes through the woods may require long sleeves and stronger repellent. When you return from a hike or walk, don't forget to check for Ticks. If you find one, see your doctor. You child may need to be tested for Lyme Disease.
Treat. Discourage itching (yes, we know, good luck with that) and apply cold cloths, a paste of baking soda and water, or hydrocortisone cream.

If your child has been stung, remove the stinger by drawing a finger nail or a credit card across the sting, wash the area, and apply a cold compress. If your child starts wheezing, coughing, and/or breaking out in hives, he/she may be allergic and will need immediate, professional medical attention.

Prevent. Okay, so this is next to impossible. But, you can make sure your kids wear the proper protective gear - helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads - while biking or rollerblading. Also, make sure you keep an eye on your kids and break up any dangerous rough-housing.
Treat. For cuts, apply direct pressure and clean the area with soap and water. If the cut gapes open, your child may need stitches, so call the doctor.

Prevent. Know what it looks like - you can view pictures here. When hiking or playing in areas of dense plants where you know there is probably poison ivy, have your children wear long sleeves and pants.
Treat. The key here is to act fast. If possible, wash the area within 10 minutes. Wash with water - no soap, as soap may spread the rash. Remove all clothes and wash separate from other clothes. To ease the symptoms, apply cold cloths or calamine lotion.