Summer is upon us, which means lots of sun, swimming and fun outdoors.
The many activities of summer come with inherent risks and potential dangers. Drowning is a leading
cause of death for children under 15, especially those age 1-4. Sadly, three children die daily from drowning, and often children drown despite being surrounded by well meaning adults who don't notice their silent death. Experiencing severe sunburns as a child increases
risk of melanoma, and this season is projected to be the
worst yet for ticks. Should we just keep our kids indoors and protect them from all the dangers of the world? NO, of course not! Our kids deserve to
enjoy the summer just as we did, but they also need to be
safe and secure. I have compiled a list of some of my go-to safety products; this list is not exhaustive, and is not meant to replace your pediatrician's recommendations.
PS - scroll down for a 20% off coupon for my favorite swim suits and sun-protective clothing...
Swim Safety:
All kids should learn how to swim from an early age. This is essential if you have a pool, but really all kids are exposed to water, so it applies to everyone. Parents should all learn CPR and basic life saving techniques in case of threatened drowning. Adults should also always watch their children near water - put down your cell phones, minimize the chatting, and turn off your music. Also, remember to have a strong pool cover and/or keep your pool fenced in. The water safety products below are not a replacement for parental supervision.
This is the Cadillac of swim safety systems. From their website: SEAL SwimSafe is a wearable device that protects swimmers at the pool, on the beach, anywhere you swim, boat, splash or float. The Hub and wearable Bands alert parents and lifeguards with strobes and alarms if a swimmer is submerged too long.
Alarm goes off if anyone enters the pool (remember to turn it off before you voluntarily go in!). People who have it, love it.
Save
The Safety Turtle works with a similar concept as the Seal System but with a lower price point and with fewer bells and whistles: an alarm goes off if the bracelet is submerged for an extended period of time. People really like this system also.
This is an awesome life jacket, and is far superior to any other I have ever seen. We have used versions of it for all our kids for years and they have always been comfortable and happy to put it on and stay in it. It keeps their heads above water, but lets them paddle around and play easily.
Wearable Sun Protection:
Kids and parents should layer with sun-protective clothes and opt for rash guards for extra swim-time protection. Coola is a very clean line that is very easy to put on, not chalky or gross at all, and is well tolerated by sensitive skin. They also make a good spray, if you want that option.
This sunscreen includes an inbreeding that is a complete sun barrier, and apparently is the best of the best for skin protection.
EltaMD is an awesome brand that makes face and body sunscreens, moisturizers, and other skin care products that are hypo-allergenic and non-comedogenic.
Recent Comments