Spring Break Safety Tips for Kids (So Everyone can Relax!)

Guest: Lynsey Smith, Masters Student at Furman University 

Spring Break is a time for kids to recharge and families to enjoy some well earned time off; whether you are planning a beach trip, staying at home, or just letting your kids play outside all day. Here are a few simple safety tips to help keep your child healthy and happy over break! 

  1. Sun Safety First!: Even if it is not super hot, UV (ultraviolet) rays are strong in spring. 

    • For small kids especially, consider keeping them covered with umbrellas, sunhats, and long sleeve cooling fabrics. Sunglasses are great extra protection for outdoor play. 

    • Use a mineral-based sunscreen, SPF (sun protection factor) 30 or higher, and reapply every 2 hours. Make sure to avoid chemicals that can affect children more than adults. 

    • Do not forget their ears, neck, and tops of feet! 

  2. Keep Them Hydrated: Warmer temperatures + more activity + sweating = higher risk of dehydration. 

    • Encourage regular water breaks during outdoor fun

    • Pack refillable water bottles for outings 

    • Watch for signs of overheating: kids will look more tired than usual and may have headaches or dizziness 

  3. If Riding on Wheels, Take Extra Safety Steps: Kids will be biking, riding scooters, and skating more - yay! Just make sure to keep them extra protected because injuries are often worse when kids are moving faster: 

    • Helmets should be snug, straps under the chin, and not wiggle around

    • Closed toed shoes protect delicate toes (no flip-flops on bikes or scooters!) 

    • No riding across streets alone. Kids moving fast in streets are hard for drivers to see and respond to quickly. 

  4. Water Safety is Key: Headed to the pool, beach, or lake? 

    • Always supervise kids near water, even strong swimmers 

    • Young children should always be within arms’ reach of an adult

    • Life jackets are a must for young children on boat activities

    • Teach basic water rules like, no running near pools, never swim alone

    • Make sure kids wear bathing suits that are bright colored and can be seen under water 

    • Consider swim lessons that focus on safely entering and exiting the water 

  5. Stranger Safety and Boundaries for Older Kids with More Independence: 

    • Review rules about talking to people they do not know and checking in 

    • Set clear boundaries for where they can go and who they can be with

    • Use a family code word if someone unfamiliar ever picks them up

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