☀️ 10 Summer Safety Tips for Kids in NJ

Summer in New Jersey brings warm weather, beach days, hiking trips, and backyard fun—but it also comes with a few health risks for kids. As a concierge pediatrician, I get a front-row seat to the joys and challenges of summer parenting. Here’s how to keep your child safe, healthy, and happy all season long. ⸻ 1. Supervise Around Water—Always Whether it’s the beach, pool, lake, or even a backyard inflatable, constant supervision is key. Drowning is silent and can happen in seconds. • Designate a “Water Watcher”—a responsible adult with eyes on the water at all times. • Enroll your child in swim lessons as early as possible. • Life jackets for boating, lakes, and non-swimmers. • Remove all pool toys from pool when done playing. • Pay extra attention to 10 min entering and leaving the pools. ⸻ 2. Use Sunscreen the Right Way Protect your child’s skin from harmful UV rays to prevent burns now and skin damage later. Opt for a mineral based sunscreen, which reflects UV rays instead of absorbs them! • Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen 15–30 minutes before sun exposure. • Reapply every 2 hours, and after swimming or sweating. • Don’t forget ears, feet, and behind the knees. ⸻ 3. Cover Up for Extra Sun Protection Clothing is your first line of defense against the sun. • Choose UPF-rated swimwear, hats, and sunglasses. • Avoid peak sun hours: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. • Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing helps on beach or hike days. ⸻ 4. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate Kids are more prone to dehydration and heat illness. • Encourage frequent water breaks, especially during outdoor play. • Avoid sugary drinks or sodas, they dehydrate you more. • Watch for signs of dehydration: dry lips, dark urine, fatigue, irritability. ⸻ 5. Watch for Heat Exhaustion New Jersey summers can get humid and hot. Know the early signs: • Headache, dizziness, nausea, irritability, or clammy skin. • Move your child to a cooler area, give fluids, and rest. If symptoms persist or worsen, call your pediatrician or seek care right away. ⸻ 6. Protect Against Ticks and Mosquitoes Lyme disease is common in NJ, and mosquitos carry their own risks. • Use EPA-approved insect repellent with DEET (over 2 months of age). • Wear long sleeves and tuck pants into socks when in wooded areas. • Check your child head-to-toe for ticks after outdoor play—especially scalp, armpits, groin, and behind the knees. ⸻ 7. Be Smart About Bicycles and Scooters Helmets prevent up to 85% of head injuries. Make them non-negotiable. • Check helmet fit and condition. • Supervise young riders and avoid riding near traffic. • No nighttime rides without lights and reflective gear. ⸻ 8. Limit Screen Time—Yes, Even in Summer It’s tempting to relax the rules, but too much screen time can impact sleep, mood, and social development. • Set daily screen time limits. • Encourage outdoor play, books, and creative activities. • Use tech together—video call grandparents, do dance games, etc. ⸻ 9. Keep Feet Safe at Pools and Beaches Hot sand, splinters, and infections are real risks. • Have your child wear water shoes or flip-flops around pool decks and locker rooms. • Watch out for sharp shells and rocks at the beach. ⸻ 10. Trust Your Gut—And Reach Out Early As a concierge pediatrician, I always tell my families: You don’t have to wait until something is urgent to check in. If something feels off, I’m just a text or call away. ⸻ ☀️ A Safe, Joyful Summer Starts With Prevention Summer should be about memories, not mishaps. A few thoughtful precautions go a long way. If you’re part of our concierge practice, you have direct access to advice, quick sick visits, and peace of mind all season long. Wishing you a healthy, adventure-filled summer in the Garden State! Warmly, Dr. Blair A. Rolnick MD Board-Certified Pediatrician Bee Kind Pediatrics – Concierge Care for Families in NJ