Call for an appointment (208) 523-3060

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Summer Tips to Keep Your Child Healthy and Happy

Summer Tips to Keep Your Child Healthy and Happy

May 21, 2025 | atv safety, Bike Safety, Education, Healthcare, Prevention, Road Safety, Safety, Safety Tips, Summer Safety

Summer is a time for sunshine, outdoor adventures, and lasting memories. As your family enjoys pool days, hikes, and playdates, it’s essential to keep your child’s health and safety in mind. At The Pediatric Center, we want every child to have a safe, happy summer filled with fun — and that starts with a few simple precautions.

Key Takeaways:

  • Keep children protected from sun exposure with SPF 30+ sunscreen, hats, and shade.

  • Stay hydrated with water throughout the day, especially during outdoor play.

  • Watch for signs of heat exhaustion or dehydration.

  • Supervise all water activities closely — even for confident swimmers.

  • Use bug protection and proper clothing to prevent bites and stings.

  • Practice ATV safety by following age guidelines, using helmets, and riding responsibly.

1. Sun Protection is a Must

Children’s skin is more sensitive to the sun, which means sunburns can happen fast. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher at least 15 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours—or more often if swimming or sweating. Don’t forget to cover often-missed areas like ears, the back of the neck, and tops of feet.

Pro Tip: If your child gets a sunburn, apply cool compresses and aloe vera gel to soothe the skin. Encourage extra hydration, and keep the area out of direct sun while it heals.

2. Hydration, Hydration, Hydration

Kids may not always recognize the signs of thirst, so it’s up to parents to keep water flowing. Encourage regular water breaks, especially during physical activity or hot weather. Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks, which can contribute to dehydration.

Watch for signs of dehydration, such as:

  • Dry mouth

  • Dizziness

  • Fatigue

  • Fewer wet diapers or trips to the bathroom

3. Beat the Heat Safely

Too much heat can lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke, especially in active kids. Keep playtime in shaded areas and schedule outdoor activities for early morning or evening when it’s cooler.

If your child becomes flushed, dizzy, or unusually tired, move them to a cool space, offer water, and contact a healthcare provider if symptoms persist.

4. Water Safety Is Non-Negotiable

Whether it’s a backyard pool, lake, or water park, constant adult supervision is the number one rule. Drowning can happen silently and in just seconds, even in shallow water.

Other water safety tips:

  • Enroll kids in swimming lessons suited to their age and ability.

  • Always use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets near open water.

  • Never rely solely on floaties or inflatable toys for safety.

5. Protect Against Bugs and Bites

Insects love summer too, and some carry risks like Lyme disease or West Nile virus. Use child-safe insect repellent with DEET or natural alternatives like oil of lemon eucalyptus (for children over 3 years). Dress your child in long sleeves and pants in wooded or grassy areas.

Check for ticks after hikes, and teach kids not to touch bees or unknown bugs.

If your child does get a bug bite, a few simple home remedies can help soothe the itch. A cold compress can quickly reduce swelling and discomfort. Applying a small amount of baking soda paste (just baking soda and water) or pure aloe vera gel can calm irritation and promote healing. For multiple bites, an oatmeal bath is a gentle way to relieve itchiness all over. Always avoid scratching, and contact your provider if the bite shows signs of infection or allergic reaction.

6. Stay Active – But Safely!

Biking, skateboarding, and other summer sports are great ways to stay active—but safety gear is a must. Always have your child wear a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads when needed.

Also, make sure playgrounds have soft ground surfaces and are appropriate for your child’s age.

7. ATV Safety for Kids

ATVs (all-terrain vehicles) are popular in rural and recreational areas but pose serious risks for children if not used properly. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children under 16 should not operate adult-sized ATVs due to the risk of injury.

Key ATV safety tips:

  • Always wear a DOT-compliant helmet, goggles, and protective gear.

  • Never allow a child to ride an ATV that’s too large for their age or size.

  • Avoid paved roads — ATVs are designed for off-road use.

  • No passengers unless the ATV is specifically designed for more than one rider.

  • Supervise children at all times when riding and avoid high speeds or rough terrain.

Why Choose The Pediatric Center for Summer Health Needs?

At The Pediatric Center, we’re here to support your child’s health in every season. Whether it’s a summer cold, bug bite reaction, or sports injury, our pediatric providers offer expert care and helpful guidance for your family’s peace of mind.

Let’s Make This Summer Safe and Memorable

With a little preparation and awareness, your child can enjoy every sunny moment to the fullest. If you have questions about summer health concerns or need to schedule a check-up, contact The Pediatric Center today. We’re here to help you navigate the season with confidence and care.

 

The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. If you have concerns about your child’s development or suspect they may have autism, please consult with a healthcare professional or pediatric specialist. The Pediatric Center is here to offer guidance, diagnosis, and personalized care. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your child’s health and development.

Keeping Kids Safe and Strong During Sports

Keeping Kids Safe and Strong During Sports

Apr 19, 2024 | Education, Healthcare, Safety, Safety Tips

As children dive into the world of sports, it’s natural for parents and coaches to want to see them excel and enjoy the game. However, ensuring their safety and well-being should always be the top priority. Sports injuries can be not only painful but also have long-term consequences, affecting a child’s ability to participate in their favorite activities. Here are some essential tips for preventing sports injuries in kids:

1. Proper Warm-up and Stretching: Before any physical activity, ensure that kids engage in a thorough warm-up routine. This helps prepare their muscles, tendons, and ligaments for the demands of exercise and reduces the risk of strains and sprains. Incorporating dynamic stretches that mimic the movements of the sport can be particularly beneficial.
2. Focus on Technique: Emphasize the importance of proper technique and form in sports training. Teaching children correct movement patterns not only enhances their performance but also reduces the likelihood of overuse injuries and musculoskeletal imbalances.
3. Use Appropriate Gear: Make sure children wear appropriate protective gear for their sport, such as helmets, pads, and supportive footwear. Properly fitting equipment can help prevent head injuries, fractures, and other traumatic injuries.
4. Hydration and Nutrition: Encourage kids to stay hydrated before, during, and after physical activity. Proper hydration supports optimal muscle function and helps regulate body temperature. Additionally, promote a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to fuel their bodies for peak performance and recovery.
5. Listen to Their Bodies: Teach children to listen to their bodies and recognize the signs of fatigue, pain, or discomfort. Encourage them to speak up if something doesn’t feel right and emphasize the importance of rest and recovery when needed.
6. Gradual Progression: Avoid sudden spikes in training intensity or volume. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of workouts to allow the body to adapt and reduce the risk of overuse injuries. Following the 10% rule—where training load is increased by no more than 10% per week—can help prevent overtraining and burnout.
7. Encourage Cross-Training: Encourage children to participate in a variety of sports and activities to promote overall athleticism and reduce the risk of overuse injuries. Cross-training engages different muscle groups and movement patterns, helping prevent imbalances and overuse of specific muscles.
8. Promote Rest and Recovery: Ensure that children have adequate rest days built into their training schedule. Rest is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as preventing overuse injuries. Encourage active recovery activities, such as gentle stretching or low-impact exercises, on rest days.
9. Educate Coaches and Parents: Educate coaches and parents about the importance of injury prevention strategies and proper sportsmanship. Emphasize the value of balanced competition and the long-term health benefits of prioritizing safety over winning at all costs.

By implementing these proactive measures, we can create a safer and more enjoyable sports experience for children, allowing them to pursue their athletic passions while minimizing the risk of injury. Let’s empower our young athletes to play hard, play smart, and stay injury-free for years to come.

If you have any questions about sports injuries or any other health issue, contact the Pediatric Center for an appointment. At the Pediatric Center, we want to give you and your child the best care you can get. We offer in-house x-rays as well as extended hours on nights and weekends so we can give you the treatment you need, when you need it. Contact us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927, to set up your appointment. We have a wonderful team of providers available for all of your children’s needs! 

 

 

 

RSV Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention!

RSV Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention!

Nov 22, 2022 | Healthcare

RSV (or  (or respiratory syncytial virus) is one of the many viruses that cause respiratory illness―illnesses of the nose, throat and lungs. Typically, RSV causes a cold which may or may not be followed by a a lower respiratory tract infection (bronchiolitis) or pneumonia. Symptoms usually last about 5-7 days. Almost all children get RSV at least once before they are 2 years old. For most healthy children, RSV is like a cold. But, some children get very sick with RSV.

Cold Symptoms Vs. Bronchiolitis

Cold symptoms may include fevers, wet or dry coughs, congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and fussiness or poor feeding in babies. Bronchiolitis can include the cold symptoms plus fast breathing, flaring of the nostrils, head bobbing with breathing, rhythmic grunting during breathing, belly breathing, tugging between the ribs and/or lower neck, and wheezing. Watch your child’s rib cage as they inhale. If you see it “caving in” and forming an upside-down “V” shape under the neck, they are working too hard to breathe.

    Infants at Greater Risk of RSV

    • 12 weeks old or younger at the start of RSV season
    • Premature or low birth weight infants (especially those born before 29 weeks gestation)
    • Chronic lung disease of prematurity
    • Babies with certain types of heart defects
    • Additional risk factos include mother smoking or being around secondhand smoke, history of allergies and eczema, not breasteeding, and being around children in a child care setting.

    At The Pediatric Center

    Call the Pediatric Center right away if your child develops any symptoms of bronchiolitis, symptoms of dehydration, pauses or difficulty breathing, gray or blue color to tongue, lips, or skin, or significantly decreased activity and alertness. Your Pediatric Center provider can diagnose your child by doing a physical exam, nasal swab test, or even a chest x-ray or oxygen saturation test to check for lung congestion in severe cases.

    Treatment

    Treatment for RSV is similar to the treatment you would give your child if they had a bad cold. To make them feel more comfortable:

    • Use nasal saline with gentle suctioning to allow easier breathing and feeding.
    • Run a cool-mist humidifier to help break up mucus and allow easier breathing.
    • Make sure they stay hydrated with fluids and frequent feedings. Try to suction baby’s nose before feeding.
    • Acetaminophen or ibuprofen (if older than 6 months) can be used to help with low-grade fevers. Always avoid aspirin and cough and cold medications in babies and young children.

    Prevention

    RSV is spread just like any other common-cold virus through direct person-to-person contact with saliva, mucus, or nasal discharge. To prevent RSV, limit your child’s exposure to crowds, other children, and anyone who is sick. Disinfect objects and surfaces in your home regularly, and feed your baby breastmilk which has unique antibodies to prevent and fight infections. One of the best things you can do to prevent RSV or any other illness is to WASH YOUR HANDS! Scrub for at least 20 seconds with soap and water! 

    Call The Pediatric Center

    At the Pediatric Center, we want to give you and your child the best information and diagnosis, you can get. If you are noticing any severe cold or bronchiolitis symptoms in your child, don’t hesitate to call your doctor at the Pediatric Center. You can contact us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927, to set up your appointment.

     

    Some content provided by healthychildren.org