Beat the Heat

Summer is a hot time for outdoor play. But did you know kids are more vulnerable than adults to heat stress? Here's how to manage.

Ages

4-7

Beat the Heat

Drink up: Make sure your child is well hydrated before she heads outside and that she takes a few swigs (4 to 6 ounces) of cold water or a sports drink every 20 minutes while she’s playing, even if she’s not thirsty. (Thirst is an early sign of dehydration.)

Dress right: Give her light-colored, lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made of absorbent material with a tight weave. Top it off with a brimmed hat.

Go easy: On especially hot and humid days, limit the intensity and duration of outdoor activity and take more frequent water breaks.

Be aware: If your child shows signs of heat exhaustion (fever, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness), get her to an air-conditioned area, apply wet towels to her forehead and neck, and give her lots of cool liquids.

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