Protecting Children from Extreme Heat

During the summertime it is very easy for a child or adult to over heat. There are signs to watch your child and self from over heating and having to be rushed to the hospital. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics there are several ways to help your child from over heating, ways your child could be come sick, when your child needs to see a doctor, and the psychological effects it could have on your child.

Steps to protect your child from the heat: 

• Plan to have a cool, air-conditioned space for your child. If your home does not have air-conditioning, find a nearby building that does. Libraries can be a great place for a cool retreat from the heat. 
• Make sure your child stays hydrated. Encourage her/him to drink water regularly, even before she/he asks for it. 
• Plan for more time to rest than usual; heat can often make children feel tired. 
• When your child is feeling hot, give him a cool bath or water mist to cool down. 
• Don’t forget about the effects of sun exposure. 
• Never leave children in a car or other closed motor vehicle. The temperature inside the car can become much higher than the outside temperature, and can rise to temperatures that cause death. 

Ways your child could become sick:

Dehydration 

Heat exhaustion 

Heat cramps 

Heat stroke 

When to see a doctor:

Feeling faint 

Extreme tiredness 

Headache 

Fever 

Intense thirst 

Not urinating for many hours 

Nausea 

Vomiting 

Breathing faster or deeper than normal 

Skin numbness or tingling 

Muscle aches 

Muscle spasms 

Psychological Effects:​

 Children may become anxious or restless from being kept indoors. Plan ahead for entertainment with indoor activities and games, and limit the amount of time spent watching television.

Children may become fearful or stressed from effects of the heat. For example, seeing dead animals or wildlife may be distressing. Reassure your child that many people are working to resolve the situation and keep them safe. Children take their cues from their parents and the environment, so remember to keep calm and answer their questions honestly. Keep in mind not to share more than is appropriate for their age. 

For more information about our program, please visit us at: www.hollytreechildcare.com

For more information about heat related illness, please visit American Academy of Pediatrics at: www.healthychildren.org