Summertime can offers some difficult challenges for parents as they look forward to vacations and yet know their usual routines will be interrupted. If vacations are being taken near the beach, the sun can present a major problem. As global warming is a definite fact, despite denial by the Republicans, children's eyes and skin are at risk unless proper measures are taken. I live in a beach town and am astounded to see parents who have on hats and sunglasses and yet their chi ldren have neither. I always wonder if they even use sunblock on the older children. The Amerian Academy of Pediatrics advises sunblock use after the age of six months, but not before. Before that a child should be covered as much as possible and if they are at the beach, they should be under big beach umbrellas and have on hats.
Sunglasses are also important and a recent article in our local paper stressed that "half of a person's lifetime exposure to ultraviolet radiation takes place by age 18." Overexposure to UV light can cause a condition called photokeratitis which may cause lifetime problems. The Web site baby banz.com offers sunglassses for all ages, even small children.
Camping is enjoyed by many, but once again there are several precautions: insect bites, ticks, snakes, food safety, and even big animals have to be considered. Knowing what to do in each case should be carefully thought out before a camping trip is undertaken. A first-aid kit is a must, as well as carrying extra needed medications and an Epi-pen for anyone with severe allergies
Hotels should be checked for windows that open without screens and cribs that are unsafe.
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