The sunny summer days are upon us. For the majority of children, this means more time outside in the pool, on the playground, or in the backyard. It also means extra time for exposure to sun, water, and insects. Amanda Shoubaki, DO, Pediatrician at South Central Pediatrics in Laurel, offers tips to have a successful summer experience.

Amanda Shoubaki, DO
Pediatrician

What is the best practice with SPF when spending time outside? “Sun burns are preventable,” states Dr. Shoubaki. “Kids older than six months can be in the sun, but need to wear sunscreen, preferably SPF-15 or higher,” states Dr. Shoubaki. “The best prevention for sunburn is applying sunscreen before you go outside and reapplying frequently while being outside. Clothing with SPF is also helpful. Cotton is very breathable, but also tightly knit and sun protection.”

“We typically recommend that children under six months of age stay out of direct sunlight altogether, if possible. They need to be under a sunshade or an umbrella, wear a wide-brimmed hat, or be in a shaded area with trees. Infants can use sunscreen if necessary, but we recommend it contain only zinc oxide.”

Sunburns are common during the summer months due to the extra hours of sunlight and the increase in exposure. So, what should I do if my child gets a sunburn? “With a mild sunburn parents can provide treatment at home,” states Dr. Shoubaki. “We recommend cool compresses to the skin, anti-inflammatory medication, and aloe vera. If your child has more severe blisters or develops sickness that includes chills or vomiting, they need to be seen by a medical provider.”

Sun protection also goes hand-in-hand with hydration. How do I prevent dehydration? Dr. Shoubaki said, “Our skin also needs extra fluids out in the hot weather. Your skin is your biggest organ and you lose a lot of fluid through sweating and things when you are in the heat. A good way to stay healthy out in the sun is to drink a lot of fluids and water, avoid caffeine and sugary drinks, take a break to cool down, and check your urine output. By using these tips, you can prevent exhaustion and dehydration.”

Swim safety is important for all ages. Before hitting the water, be sure to make plans. Dr. Shoubaki states, “We like to remind families that water safety is very important because families spend a lot of time in the water or around bodies of water. While swimming, floatation devices are helpful, but there is no substitution for direct adult supervision. When in or around the water, there should always be one designated adult who is responsible for watching the children. That person needs to trade off that responsibility if they need to be relieved of that duty for any amount of time. These tips are the best way to avoid accidental drownings, even among strong swimmers or kids who tend to do well in the water. All ages of children need to be watched.”

It is also important that children know the depth of the water, that they should not eat or chew gum while in water, and that they should avoid any form of water during bad weather.

It’s time for pesky insects. How do I protect my child while playing outside? “Children are encouraged to wear insect repellent if they are going to be outside,” said Dr. Shoubaki. “Due to insects in the area that carry diseases, such as Zika and West Nile, we recommend that children use sunscreen that does contain DEET or other insecticides. These should be applied only to the areas of the skin that are going to be exposed. You do not need to spray this under or over your clothing. We do recommend that those insect repellents be washed off as soon as children are done with their outdoor activities, so that they avoid continued exposure and absorption of those chemicals by the skin.”

It is also recommended that children not play around areas of stagnant water or areas that attract insects. The most susceptible time for insect bites are in the evenings and late afternoon. It is also important to note that you should not wear strong perfumes while outside as this attracts more insects.

South Central Pediatrics and Ellisville Pediatric Clinic are here to help families with any issues that may arise this summer. Whether your child has an insect bite, an extreme sunburn or needs an annual well-check, we are here for you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Ellisville Pediatric Clinic – 601-477-3550

• Achyutha Pujari, MD
• Patricia Tibbs, MD
• Carley Robinson, PNP
• Jessie Watson, PNP

South Central Pediatrics – 601-649-3520

• Grant Saxton, MD
• Amanda Shoubaki, DO
• Ann Richardson, FNP