How to Prevent 5 Beach Emergencies for Children

Are You Fully Prepared for Vacation on the Water?

Is your toddler or preschooler ready for vacation? Changes in climate and being surrounded by new critters can come with consequences. Make sure you understand how to handle smaller issues with your child before they turn into emergencies.

1. Sunburn

Even on an overcast day, it is important to apply SPF 30 or more every couple of hours at the beach. Even waterproof sunscreens need to be reapplied frequently! Children may lose sunscreen as they sweat, rub their arms, or towel off.

If your child suffers a sunburn, begin with a cold shower and follow up with an aloe gel treatment. How do you know if you need to go to the hospital for sunburn? Intense pain, a fever with chills, nausea, or blistering are all unpleasant signs that you should take your little one to seek medical treatment.

2. Dehydration

Both intense heat and swallowing salt water can be causes for dehydration. Having plenty of water handy is crucial in the summer heat, especially when spending long periods of time in the sun. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, children aged 4-8 need 5 cups of water a day.

3. Bug Bites

Buy repellent spray is the easiest way to deter summertime mosquitoes. Just like sunscreen, remember to reapply after time in the water or sweating. Pack some hydrocortisone cream in case of bites and use after icing itchy areas.

4. Jellyfish Stings

Most jellyfish stings aren’t serious and may have effects similar to a bug bites. Others may cause children to break out in hives. If this is the case – don’t be alarmed! First, soaking the affected area in vinegar can help calm symptoms. Benadryl or hydrocortisone creams can also help calm the irritation, which should disappear in a couple of days.

Serious symptoms of a jellyfish sting requiring medical attention include: nausea or vomiting, weakness, severe muscle aches, or difficulty breathing.

5. Swimming Struggles

Any child’s best defense against drowning is swim lessons. If your kid is unable to swim or tires easily from playing in the water, make sure they are properly equipped. Life vests are the best way to keep kids afloat in the pool or ocean. Floaties, on the other hand, may slip off the arms. It can also be too easy for little ones to let go of a noodle.

Life vests also allow for free movement of the arms and legs, giving children correct form for when they are ready to learn how to swim.

Preparing Your Child for School

Now your little one is prepared for the beach, but will they be prepared for kindergarten? Primary Beginnings is a preschool in Raleigh that sets your child up for success. We offer a creative curriculum that fosters learning and advancement. Call today to set up a tour at one of our locations!