by Amanda Henderson of Safe Children.Info
When warm weather hits, most kids are eager to get outside and explore. However, too much sun, the dangers of water, and falls that leave bumps and bruises can all take their toll on little ones. While you don’t want to see them get hurt, you also don’t want to keep them from having fun.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways you can help your kids have a great summer and stay safe. In fact, there are several things you can do as a family to help your kids develop a love of the outdoors. The following tips will help your family enjoy a safe summer.
Get The Family Together
Have fun doing something together. Building a birdhouse or setting up a family campout in the backyard are great ways to enjoy time together. If you find yourself with a lazy Saturday, and the kids are looking for something to do, create a treasure hunt with a fun prize at the end. Getting everyone together is a great way to spend time.
Clean Up
Make sure your yard is safe by having a clean-up day. Go through each area where your children play–like the pool, sandbox, swing set and trampoline–and look for potential hazards. There might be protruding nails, sharp rocks, or loose screws that can be easily fixed. Get your kids involved so they’ll be aware of potential dangers in the future.
Make Learning Fun
Get your little ones interested in Earth science by encouraging them to keep a nature notebook. Each time your family takes walks, visits the local park, or just hangs out in the backyard, grab a notebook and ask your child to write down the interesting things he sees. He can draw pictures of his favorite spots or collect leaves to categorize later. Invest in a good pair of binoculars to encourage bird watching, and visit the library to research the interesting birds he finds.
Teach Water Safety
It’s imperative that your child understands water safety. Whether you have a pool or just a sprinkler system, your little ones should know how to protect themselves when they’re getting wet. Never leave a child unattended near water, and keep your safety gear in good shape. Consider installing a fence or a motion sensor around the pool area to keep young children from wandering in alone.
If you decide to build a fence, take the time to find a trustworthy contractor. A quick Google search for a reputable fencing company nearby can elicit a lengthy list. Narrow it down to three potential hires, then get quotes and potential price points.
Talk About Wildlife
In many places, snakes, stinging insects, and other animals that bite are prevalent, even in the backyard, so it’s important to teach your child how to handle potential situations. Talk about giving these creatures a wide berth, what to do in the event of an emergency, and always keep a first aid kit handy.
Teaching your child how to stay safe outdoors is a big part of warm weather, so work together to help everyone have fun while staying accident-free. Taking precautions now will ensure a great time and peace of mind.
