Keep your kids safe and healthy this summer

[3 min read]

In this article: 

• A Swedish pediatrics expert shares critical child safety tips for summer.
• Prioritize sun protection and water and heat safety. 
• Watch the short video below for more health and safety advice for your family.  

With summer upon us and vacation planning in full swing, it’s important to keep kids' health and safety front-and-center during warm weather activities. Elizabeth Meade, M.D., pediatric medical director at Providence Swedish (and a mom), shares three crucial areas to focus on to keep the fun in the sun going all summer long: 

• Water safety. For kids under five, practice “touch supervision,” meaning they should always be within arm’s reach. For older kids, ensure they use the buddy system and always have a sober adult designated as the “water watcher.” 
   
• Sun protection. Apply sunscreen at least 20 to 30 minutes before heading outdoors and reapply every couple of hours, particularly after swimming. For infants, prioritize hats, sun-safe clothing, and seeking shade to avoid sunburn and skin damage.  
   
• Heat safety. High temperatures can pose serious risks, so it’s crucial to manage heat exposure. Avoid outdoor activities during peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and encourage staying in the shade. Parents should be able to recognize signs of heat exhaustion or heat illness in children, which can include fatigue, excessive sweating, confusion, or headache. If these symptoms appear, it’s important to move indoors and cool down immediately. 

^{Watch video: Dr. Elizabeth Meade shares top tips to ensure a happy and safe summer for kids.} 

“By focusing on these key areas, parents can ensure a safe and enjoyable summer for their children,” says Dr. Meade. 

Learn more and find a physician or advanced practice clinician (APC)

If you have questions about vaccinations or your child’s wellness health, Swedish Pediatrics can help. If your kids aren’t up to date on immunizations, particularly the measles vaccine, call their pediatrician today to schedule a visit.

You can contact Swedish Primary Care to schedule an appointment with a primary care physician or advanced care clinician. If you or a child has symptoms, you can connect virtually with a member of your care team who can review the symptoms, provide instruction and follow up as needed. With Swedish ExpressCare Virtual you can receive treatment in minutes for common conditions such as colds, flu, urinary tract infections, and more. If you don’t have a doctor, use our provider directory to find a specialist or primary care physician near you.

Information for patients and visitors

Additional resources

Kids and screen time: How much is too much?

Routine mental health talks with kids help make home a stigma-free zone

Measles cases are on the rise. Here's what you should know.

Growing Up Safely: Immunizations + Health | Talk with a Doc Podcast

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