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Parent Corner: Spring Safety

And finally….along comes Spring!!  With the arrival of Spring comes warm weather and plenty of outdoor fun.  Children of all ages enjoy exploring nature and playing games in the fresh Spring air, so get out and embrace the season!  With the increase in outdoor fun though come new safety issues to consider.

 Infants

   Sun Safety

Sunlight is important for infants and can be a major source of vitamin D.  Be sure to apply sunscreen liberally at least 30 minutes before exposure and dress in light clothing and hats.  Most sunscreens are not recommended for infants under 6 months so indirect sun exposure is the best choice. 

 Stroller Safety

A walk in the stroller on a nice summer day can calm a fussy baby and rejuvenate a tired or frustrated parent.  Before beginning your walk remember to ensure your child is buckled in safely and that the brakes are working properly.  Also be sure your stroller is properly balanced, an overloaded stroller can easily topple backward!  Another thing to consider may be whether your stroller has adequate shelter from the sun in the idea of an umbrella or folding top. 

 Toddlers

  Pool Safety

Pools can be a great way to cool down on a hot summer day and can occupy a child’s attention for hours, but without appropriate supervision pools can turn into a major hazard for young children. Be sure to never leave children unattended near a pool and even when in the pool with your child make sure they are always within arms reach.  Always be sure your pool is securely surrounded by a fence and has a locked gate. 

 Poisoning

Poisoning can be a safety issue in the summer as many gardening chemicals, seed etc are being used.  Be sure to store them in a cupboard with a lock or safety latch, out of sight and access of a wandering toddler. 

Outdoor Game: "Hot Potato"
 Materials: Medium size playground ball.

Description: Put a medium sized ball in the center of a circle along with a child chosen to be 'it'.  The child who is 'it' pushes the ball with his or her feet, trying to get it out of the circle. The other children try to stop the ball with their feet.  Once the ball is out, another leader is chosen.  The ball is called the 'hot potato' and the children will enjoy trying to keep it in the 'oven'.

(Taken from Outdoor Spring Games: www.preschoolrainbow.org/preschool-outdoor.htm)

  Preschoolers

Strangers

Teaching preschool age children about strangers can be a tricky task.  While it is essential that they learn never to go anywhere with a stranger without their parents approval, you also don’t want to scare the child into being afraid of leaving your side or trusting new caregivers etc.  The best advice for parents with a preschool age child is to stay with the child at all times and teach them that they should ALWAYS tell you where they are going.

 Dehydration

Dehydration can often be an issue for small children in the hot summer months.  Children being smaller than adults, lose fluids more quickly. They also tend to have higher activity levels so sweat more often. Be sure to provide plenty of clear fluids while playing outside. Frozen juice pops can be a fun way to keep children cool and hydrated while playing outdoors! 

 (Information from www.sixtysecondparent.com)

  Recipe:

 Frozen Creamy Juice Bars

 Ingredients:

1-6 oz can of frozen juice (flavour of your choice!)

1-6 oz can water

1-2 cups vanilla ice cream or yogurt

 Directions:

Blend until smooth, Pour into molds, insert sticks and freeze.  ENJOY!

 This month's ideas were provided by North Perth Early Years Centre staff!

We are proud to be the host agency for the Perth-Middlesex Early Years Centres.