Summer is a time of outdoor play and freedom for children, but it requires special attention to their safety. In this Farmoderm guide, we discover practical tips on hygiene, sun protection and moisturizing to ensure the little ones’ daily well-being is full of joy and dignity.
Table of Contents:
- Importance of hygiene and sun protection
- Hydration and nutrition for a healthy summer
- Skin protection: preventing and treating skin irritation
- Recommended physical activities
- Management of summer routines
- Summer emergency kit
Introduction
Summer is a wonderful time for children, with long days and plenty of time on their hands, so they can have many opportunities to engage in their favorite activities, such as playing outside or having fun with their peers and friends.
However, as parents, the situation is more complicated. Lacking school care, it is necessary to devote more time and attention to them so that children remain healthy and safe while having fun.
Outdoor activities, high temperatures, and intense exposure to the sun can present some problems for children’s health, especially for those between 2 and 10 years old.
In this article we will explore some practical tips for ensuring the well-being of your children during the summer months, offering suggestions on hygiene, sun protection, hydration, and more, with a focus particularly on preschool and elementary school children,
Importance of hygiene and sun protection
During the summer, hygiene and sun protection are essential to prevent infection and skin damage. Here are some specific tips to keep children healthy during this season.
Hand hygiene
Children love to play outdoors, but this also means they are exposed to germs and bacteria. Teaching them the importance of washing their hands frequently with soap and water, especially after playing outdoors, can shelter us from many of the little health mishaps we often run into through carelessness.
A good way to make this process fun and automatic is to make it a game by singing a 20-second song or nursery rhyme while washing their hands, such as “Happy Birthday” or “GiroTondo.”
Sun protection
Children’s skin is particularly sensitive to UV rays, so it is essential to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (at least 50).
Sunscreen should be applied at least 30 minutes before going outside and reapplied every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Don’t forget to cover often neglected areas such as the ears, neck and feet.
It is also a good idea to have children wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses for additional protection.
Extra sun protection for sensitive individuals
For children with particularly sensitive skin or conditions such as atopic dermatitis, it is important to choose specific products that are gentle on the skin and without fragrances or dyes.
Our article, Atopic dermatitis: bath yes or bath no? provides more information on how to manage skin care for children with these needs.
Hydration and nutrition for a healthy summer
During the summer, it is important not to forget to also act on nutrition to keep them healthy and fit.
High temperatures can increase the risk of dehydration, greatly affecting toddlers’ energy and irritability.
To avoid running into these inconveniences, we recommend these simple food strategies:
Take care of their hydration
Children, especially those between the ages of 2 and 10, are particularly susceptible to dehydration because they tend to lose fluids more rapidly than adults.
Make sure they drink water regularly throughout the day, even when they are not thirsty.
A good way to encourage them to drink is to offer fresh, but not cold, water, with the addition of a few slices of lemon or orange to add a touch of flavor.
Refreshing and healthy drinks
In addition to water, you can offer them healthy drinks such as natural fruit juices, cold herbal teas without added sugar, or fruit smoothies.
Avoid sugary and carbonated drinks, which not only contain added sugar but can also contribute to dehydration.
For a creative idea, try making homemade popsicles with fresh fruit juices, a great way to cool off on hot days.
Fruits and vegetables rich in water
Including water-rich fruits and vegetables in your children’s daily diet is a great way to help them stay hydrated.
Watermelons, melons, and fresh strawberries not only provide essential fluids, but are also rich in vitamins and minerals. They are light and easily digestible foods, ideal for snacks and meals during the summer, which children particularly like due in part to their attractive smell and colors.
Light but nutritious foods
Choose light, nutritious foods that can provide energy without weighing you down. Some examples might be chicken or turkey salads, grilled fish, Greek yogurt, and whole grain cereals. These foods are rich in protein and essential nutrients that help keep energy levels stable throughout the day.
Avoid heavy and fatty foods
During summer, it is best to avoid heavy and fatty foods that can be difficult to digest and can increase the feeling of heat.
In particular, avoid fried foods, fast food and foods high in refined sugars.
These foods not only weigh you down but can also contribute to a feeling of lethargy.
Try healthy but tasty snacks
Small snacks are an important part of children’s diets, especially during the summer when they are more active.
Prepare sweet and savory snacks so that you are ready to calm hunger when it suddenly arises and avoid resorting to snacks high in refined sugars and fat.
Fresh chopped fruit is a great option, but so is hummus on crunchy cereal slices or yogurt with fruit and granola.
These snacks provide energy and nutrients without weighing you down without spoiling your appetite for main meals.
Management of digestive problems
If your child has digestive problems, it is important to monitor his or her diet and pay attention to what foods may trigger reactions.
Some foods can cause bloating or discomfort, so in case these issues occur frequently, it is good to keep a food diary to identify the source of any problems.
Always some nutrition education
Involving your children in meal preparation not only empowers them, but can make mealtime more fun, while also educating them about healthy food choices.
Explaining why some foods are better than others and how these foods contribute to their well-being will also help them make informed choices in the future when they are more aware of the importance of their lifestyle.
Skin protection: preventing and treating skin irritation
During the summer, children’s skin is particularly vulnerable to irritation, sunburn and other skin problems.
The sun, heat and humidity can cause a number of discomforts if the right precautions are not taken.
Obviously, protection from the sun’s rays is the first care in this regard, so much so that we have already covered it, devoting a special section to it
However, skin protection does not end with shielding from the sun.
So we present more tips to protect it and keep your children’s skin healthy and soft throughout the summer season.
Skin hydration
Children’s skin can become dry and irritated more easily during the summer.
It is important to keep skin well moisturized by using baby-specific moisturizers that are formulated to be gentle and free of perfumes or irritating additives.
Apply moisturizer after bath time and whenever you notice that your baby’s skin is dry or cracked. This small attention can prevent greater discomfort.
Recommended products include our Farmoderm Moisturizing Face and Body Cream: a moisturizing, preventive, soothing and calming lotion for babies, children and teens. Made with 98 percent natural ingredients, making it a certified organic and vegan product.
Our Baby line is dermatologically tested, considering caring for baby’s skin as a primary factor in its well-being, keeping it moisturized, nourished and soft. Find a wide selection of the highest quality products on our online store:
Discover our line dedicated to the little ones
Summer bathing
During the summer months, it is critical to pay attention to the frequency and method of bathing. Although it may be tempting to take frequent baths to cool children, water that is too hot and harsh soaps can remove the skin’s natural oils, causing dryness and irritation. Prefer for lukewarm baths and uses gentle and moisturizing products specifically for sensitive baby skin.
We refer you again to Our specific article on the subject:
Atopic dermatitis: bathing yes or bathing no?
Prevention of sweat irritation
Sweat can cause irritation, especially in areas where skin rubs against skin, such as the neck, armpits, groin, and behind the knees.
To prevent these irritations, have your children wear light, breathable clothes made of cotton or other natural fabrics.
Also apply Farmoderm Child Protective Paste to areas prone to sweating to keep the skin protected, the benefits will be obvious!
For more information on how to treat skin irritations, you can consult in our short article
Preventing redness in the child.
Soothe skin irritations
Despite all precautions, it is possible for your children to develop skin irritation.
If you notice redness, itching or irritation, it is important to treat these areas immediately to prevent worsening.
Gently wash the area with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser such as our Farmoderm Gentle Shower Shampoo, dry well by patting (do not rub) and apply a soothing cream such as Farmoderm Moisturizing Face and Body Cream.
Protection from insect bites
During the summer, insect bites can be quite a frequent problem.
Prevent bites by using insect repellents specifically for children and clothing that covers most of the body at times when insects are most active, such as at dusk.
If your children get stung, apply an appropriate cream to relieve itching and prevent scratching and infection, as advised by your doctor or pharmacist
Unfortunately, especially in some areas, it is a problem that you need to put in place and be prepared to deal with
Extra care after a long day
After a day spent in the sun, children’s skin will need care and a refreshing bath for daily hygiene.
To make this time, often not too enthusiastically experienced by children, more enjoyable, use pleasant and comforting products, such as our Farmoderm Gentle Shower Shampoo, which will prevent burning and unpleasant sensations.
The Importance of Diet for Skin Health
A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is essential for keeping children’s skin healthy and resilient. Foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, such as carrots, citrus fruits, and nuts, can help improve skin health.
As already recommended, make sure your children consume a variety of fruits and vegetables, along with lean protein and whole grains.
For more information on how diet can affect skin health, see this article of ours:
“The importance of diet in maintaining healthy skin.”
Recommended physical activities
During the summer, it is crucial that children stay active to promote their physical and mental well-being. Outdoor activities not only help them stay fit, but also provide opportunities for socialization and development of new skills. However, it is important to choose activities that are safe and suitable for hot weather conditions.
Here are some ideas of recommended physical activities for children during the summer:
Water games
Water is a great ally against the summer heat. Organizing water games is a fun and refreshing way to get children moving. Activities such as water balloon tossing, water guns, and the classic and simple garden sprinkler can be a lot of fun. However, it is important to make sure that children use sunscreen and drink water frequently to avoid dehydration.
Outdoor sports and physical activity
Sports such as soccer, basketball, tennis and swimming are perfect for keeping children active. These sports help develop coordination, strength and endurance. It is essential that children wear light, breathable clothing and that they are monitored to prevent overheating.
After physical activity, for toddlers, a good hygiene routine, such as the one described in The Proper Diaper Change, can help keep skin healthy and clean.
Nature walks
Hikes and walks in parks or mountain trails offer children the opportunity to explore nature and get exercise. These activities can be enhanced with games such as treasure hunts, which stimulate curiosity and observation.
It is important to carry water, healthy snacks and a first aid kit for possible emergencies. Find tips for making one in the last item in this article.
Team games
Team games, such as treasure hunting or “dodge ball,” and relay games are excellent for encouraging cooperation and socialization among children. These games can be organized in parks or open spaces, making sure there is always a shady area where children can rest and cool off.
Creative workshops in the shade
For warmer days, when intense physical activity may not be ideal, outdoor creative workshops in the shade are a good alternative.
Painting, sculpting with clay or building small DIY projects can be relaxing and stimulating activities.
Make sure to always have sunscreen on hand anyway.
Cycling and skating
Biking or skating is a great way to explore the surroundings and get exercise. It is important that children always wear helmets and pads and are supervised to ensure safety. Planning safe routes and choosing less hot times of day can help prevent heat-related problems.
Gardening
Gardening may seem like a quiet activity, but it involves many physical movements such as digging, planting and watering. It is an educational activity that teaches children about caring for plants and respect for the environment. Make sure children wear gardening gloves and are protected from the sun.
Management of summer routines
Summer vacation is a time of great joy for children, but it can also be a challenge for parents trying to maintain a balanced and regular routine.
Camps and summer centers come to the aid of parents and can be a good summer routine, contributing not only to children’s physical well-being, but also helping them feel secure and maintain some regularity and stability between commitment and rest.
Here are some practical tips on how to manage these summer routines, focusing on sleep, playtime and summer learning.
The importance of good rest
Maintaining a regular sleep routine is also crucial during the summer.
Although it can be tempting to let children stay awake longer, it is important to ensure that they continue to get enough sleep. Establishing consistent bedtime and wake-up times helps children feel rested and ready to tackle the day’s activities. Creating an evening routine that includes relaxing activities such as reading a storybook or taking a warm bath can help children prepare for sleep. Avoid using electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime to promote deeper sleep. Make sure the bedroom is cool and dark. During summer, a room that is too hot can disrupt sleep, so consider using fans or air conditioning to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Playing time
Play is an essential part of children’s development, and long summer days provide ample opportunity for outdoor fun. However, it is important to balance play time with moments of rest to avoid overheating and excessive fatigue. Encourage children to play outdoors during cooler times of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, to avoid the intense midday heat. Activities such as riding bikes, playing ball, or simply exploring the garden are great for keeping children active.
Always make sure children drink plenty of water during the day, keeping a water bottle handy for them, and use appropriate sunscreen to protect their skin.
Stimulating the mind
Even if school is closed, it is important to continue stimulating children’s minds. Summer learning can be fun and informal, and it helps maintain the skills learned during the school year.
Encourage daily reading by choosing books that interest children. Visit the local library or stock up on age-appropriate books to keep their curiosity alive. Incorporate educational activities into summer days, such as math games, simple science experiments or museum visits.
These activities not only keep him busy but also reinforce learning.
Summer emergency kit
During the summer, it’s essential to have a well-stocked emergency kit on hand to quickly handle any unforeseen event that may occur. A well-organized kit can mean the difference between solving a minor mishap quickly or dragging on and making it worse.
Here are some tips on what to include in your summer emergency kit to make sure your children are always protected and safe.
Rescue small cuts and grazes
A first aid set for cuts and grazes is the heart of your emergency kit.
Make sure it contains: band-aids of various sizes, sterile gauze and bandages, wound disinfectant, medical scissors and tweezers, latex gloves, thermometer, and antiseptic wipes.
Having these items will allow you to quickly treat small cuts, scrapes or grazes while minimizing the risk of infection.
Sun and after-sun moisturizers
Also included in the kit is a small tube of spare sunscreen with a high SPF 50, provide the same for moisturizer, and don’t forget sticks to protect delicate areas such as the lips and nose from sun and wind.
Also essential are sunburn and after-sun lotions to soothe any sunburn or skin irritation, which can be particularly difficult to deal with. Having these remedies available can make all the difference in containing a dramatic worsening of the situation.
Creams and sprays for insect bites
Insect bites can be annoying and sometimes dangerous, especially if children are allergic. The kit should contain: insect repellent sprays or creams, special creams to reduce itching and inflammation.
Consult your doctor to possibly equip us with specific “pens” if your child has a history of severe allergies to insect bites.
Solutions for allergies
In addition to insect bites, other allergies may emerge during the summer due to pollen, dust or food.
Be sure to include whatever you need to relieve your symptoms after consulting your family doctor.