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Child Life Blog


The Long HOT Summer

Friday, June 03, 2011

The 100 degree days we've been having lately are signs that this summer in San Antonio is going to be a hot one!! 

Just a few reminders as the temperatures rise:

  • Remember that your newborn (or new-to-home NICU grad) is more sensitive to temperature changes than you are and may not recover from changes as quickly as an adult.  
  • Keep in mind when you dress your infant to leave the house in that cute summer onesie that the MD's office or the store will have the AC on high...your little one may need a blanket.
  • Sunscreen-sunscreen-sunscreen....protect yourself and your little ones this summer!
  • Stay hydrated....you and your infant.
  • Don't ever leave your little guy or gal in the car...even for a minute!!
  • Watch out for HOT surfaces, esp. on car seats and strollers.

Do you have any hints or tips for beating the summer heat with a newborn on board?  Share them with us by clicking on the comments link below (or email me by clicking on my name).

Enjoy the sunshine...safely!

Julie Hudson, MSN, RN
NCBH NICU



Block the Sun, Not the Fun!

Friday, August 06, 2010

The risk of developing skin cancer will be substantially reduced for children who learn to "Block the sun, not the fun!" Developed by dermatologists from The Los Angeles Metropolitan Dermatological Society, Sun Safety for Kids is dedicated to reducing the incidence of skin cancer through teaching and promoting sun protection to children.

Sun protection methods include wearing hats and long clothing, seeking shade, and much more.

http://www.sunsafetyforkids.org/



How to Stay Cool in the Summer Heat!

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

While school is just around the corner, we still have many weeks left to play in the HOT, HOT summer here. Here are some tips to help you stay cool and healthy while still having fun!!

1. Never forget sun-screening yourself.

2. It is recommended to wear loose-fit clothing, preferably cotton material.

3. Wear a hat or a baseball cap.

4. Drink plenty of liquids all day. It is not recommended to drink soda because the sugars would make you thirstier. Water, fruit drinks, and iced teas are recommended.

5. Limit your outdoor activity in 30-60 minutes at a time. Have water breaks A LOT.

6. Try to do your outdoor activities in the morning before the heat begins or in the evening, when the sunset has begun.

7. Play in the shade, if possible

8. Take time to smell the flowers, chase the butterflies and enjoy the last weeks of summer you have left!!!!



Outside Playtime! Pool Time!

Friday, June 25, 2010

Please make sure that your children are protected from sunburn, dehydration and accidental drowning. Apply sunscreen regularly and as the instructions indicate. Use the highest SPF available. Make sure that your children are drinking plenty of water, sodas are not good hydrators. Make sure they take breaks and come inside to cool off frequently. Never leave your child unattended while at a pool, not even a wading pool.



Fun in the Sun!

Friday, June 11, 2010

Source: http://www.aap.org/advocacy/archives/tanning.htm

Babies under 6 months:

  • The two main recommendations from the AAP to prevent sunburn are to avoid sun exposure, and dress infants in lightweight long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and brimmed hats that shade the neck to prevent sunburn. However when adequate clothing and shade are not available, parents can apply a minimal amount of suncreen with at least 15 SPF (sun protection factor) to small areas, such as the infant's face and the back of the hands. If an infant gets sunburn, apply cold compresses to the affected area.

For All Other Children:

  • The first, and best, line of defense against the sun is covering up. Wear a hat with a three-inch brim or a bill facing forward, sunglasses (look for sunglasses that block 99-100% of ultraviolet rays), and cotton clothing with a tight weave.
  • Stay in the shade whenever possible, and limit sun exposure during the peak intensity hours - between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
  • On both sunny and cloudy days use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or greater that protects against UVB and UVA rays.
  • Be sure to apply enough sunscreen - about one ounce per sitting for a young adult.
  • Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.
Use extra caution near water and sand (and even snow!) as they reflect UV rays and may result in sunburn more quickly.


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