Louisiana summer is a fantastic time for planning trips and outdoor activities with your family. However, for families with medically fragile children, it’s especially important to plan these activities with safety in mind. At PediaTrust, we recognize the challenges you face and are here to support you every step of the way. With years of experience caring for medically fragile children, we understand how to help families enjoy a safe and fulfilling summer. Here are six essential safety tips to help you make the most of the season while keeping your child’s health and wellbeing a top priority.
1. Stay Hydrated and Watch for Overheating
Spending time in the sunshine with medically fragile children can be fun, but it also increases the risk of dehydration. Hot weather and sweating can quickly lead to overheating if your child is not drinking enough water. To stay safe in the heat, make sure that children aged eight and older drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day.
Additionally, watch for signs of heat exhaustion during outdoor activities. These symptoms can include:
- Flushed skin
- Excessive sweating
- Muscle cramps
- Dizziness or lethargy
- And more
Plan for shaded or indoor breaks and dress your child in lightweight, breathable clothing to keep them cool. If your family lives in Louisiana, where summer humidity can make the heat feel even more intense, these precautions are particularly important. Make sure to keep bottles of water on hand, and consider packing helpful items like handheld fans to help them cool down even more.
2. Prioritize Sun Protection
The summer sun is beautiful but also potentially harmful, especially for medically fragile children with sensitive skin or health conditions that can be worsened by UV exposure. A wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses are great choices to block the sun’s rays and keep your child comfortable. Additionally, some medicines can increase sun sensitivity. If your child takes daily medications, make sure to check if this could put them at risk.
Before going out in the sun, be sure to apply child-safe, water-resistant sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply every two hours. If it is difficult to apply sunscreen lotions to your child’s skin, opt for a spray formula.
However, it should be noted that most dermatologists recommend mineral sunscreen over chemical sunscreen. Just make sure to thoroughly coat any skin that is exposed to the sun. Don’t forget commonly overlooked areas like the ears, hands, and feet!
3. Plan Safe Pool and Water Activities
Splashing around in the water is a quintessential summer activity. But, it’s essential to take added safety precautions for medically fragile children. If your child requires assistance with mobility or balance, ensure they are equipped with a properly fitting life jacket or flotation device.
When visiting a pool, lake, or water park, keep activities supervised and consider bringing along a caregiver or an additional set of hands. Finding accessible, quieter spaces may also help manage your child’s sensory needs or specific medical requirements.
4. Keep Medical Supplies Within Reach
Always have an emergency medical kit on hand during summer outings, especially for longer adventures. Include necessary medications, backup medical equipment, and emergency contact information. Due to the summer sun, it can also be helpful to pack aloe vera or other after-sun lotions. And, don’t forget the first-aid essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointments, and hand sanitizer.
For example, if your medically fragile child uses respiratory support or a feeding tube, ensure backup supplies are stored in a temperature-controlled bag to avoid damage from the summer heat. Keeping medical supplies ready allows you to handle unexpected situations calmly and quickly, letting the fun continue without unnecessary stress.
5. Create a Flexible Activity Schedule
Children thrive on routine, and medically fragile children are no exception. While summer is often filled with excitement and new activities, maintaining some consistency can help your child feel more safe and secure.
Build your outings or events around your child’s peak energy times, and plan for moments of calm in between. When they’re well-rested and comfortable, they can enjoy summer fun without feeling overwhelmed.
6. Consider Medically Fragile Child Care Support
Hectic summers can be overwhelming, even for the most organized households. Enrolling your child in a specialized medically fragile child care like PediaTrust can give you peace of mind while ensuring your child’s needs are met in a nurturing environment.
Our highly skilled team offers compassionate care for medically fragile children, complete with activities to encourage development and socialization. If you’re searching for a special needs daycare in Louisiana, PediaTrust provides the support families need during the summer and beyond.
Find Your Support System This Summer
Planning for summer safety doesn’t mean compromising on fun. With thoughtful preparation and the right resources, your family can enjoy all the wonderful experiences this season has to offer.
If you’re a parent of a medically fragile child in Louisiana, reach out to PediaTrust today to learn more about the services we offer. From skilled nursing care to enriching daycare programs, we’re here to meet your child’s needs. Call or message your closest PediaTrust location to schedule a visit today.
