7 Summer Care Tips for Children
1. Keep Children Well Hydrated:
The most important thing during summer is hydration. Children lose a lot of water through sweat, and dehydration can happen quickly.
Give children:
- Water regularly
- Coconut water
- Lemon water
- Buttermilk
- Fresh fruit juices
- Watermelon and muskmelon
For babies, breastfeeding should be done more frequently because breast milk prevents dehydration.
2. Give Light and Healthy Food:
During summer, children should eat light and easily digestible food. Heavy, oily, and spicy food can cause stomach problems.
Best summer foods for children:
- Dal rice
- Khichdi
- Curd rice
- Fruits
- Vegetable soups
- Chapati and vegetables
- Curd and buttermilk
Avoid outside food and stale food to prevent stomach infections.
3. Avoid Going Out in Afternoon Heat:
Do not take children outside between 12 pm to 4 pm, as this is the hottest time of the day and can cause heat exhaustion.
If going outside:
- Make children wear cotton clothes
- Use cap or hat
- Carry water bottle
- Avoid direct sunlight
4. Maintain Hygiene:
Summer is the season of infections, especially stomach infections.
Parents should:
- Make children wash hands before eating
- Wash fruits properly
- Give clean drinking water
- Avoid outside juices and ice
- Keep nails short and clean
Good hygiene can prevent many infections.
5. Protect Children from Heat Rashes:
Many children get heat rashes due to sweating.
To prevent heat rash:
- Make children wear loose cotton clothes
- Keep skin dry
- Give bath once or twice daily
- Change sweaty clothes immediately
- Use mild soap for children
If rashes are severe, consult a pediatrician.
6. Summer Care for Babies:
Babies need extra care in summer.
Important tips:
- Breastfeed frequently
- Do not overdress baby
- Use light cotton clothes
- Keep baby in cool environment
- Change diapers frequently
- Watch for fever or loose motions
If baby is not feeding properly or has fever, consult a doctor.
7. Watch for Signs of Dehydration:
Parents should know signs of dehydration in children:
- Dry lips
- Less urine
- Weakness
- Irritability
- Sunken eyes
- Excessive sleepiness
If you notice these signs, consult a pediatrician immediately.
When Should You Visit a Pediatrician?
Parents should consult a pediatrician if the child has:
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Loose motions
- Skin rashes
- Not eating or drinking
- Decreased urine
- Weakness
- Signs of dehydration
Early treatment prevents serious problems.
Visit Goodfaith Healthcare, Hinjewadi:
For child health checkup, vaccination, newborn care, and treatment of childhood illnesses, parents can consult Dr Anuja Pakhare at Goodfaith Healthcare, Hinjewadi. Regular pediatric checkups are very important for a child’s healthy growth and development.
Final Advice for Parents:
Summer season requires extra care for children. The most important things are hydration, light food, hygiene, sun protection, and proper clothing. Most summer illnesses in children can be prevented if parents take proper care. For child health consultation and vaccination, visit Goodfaith Healthcare, Hinjewadi and consult Dr Anuja Pakhare.