How to Keep Your Students Cool This Summer!

Summers are for having fun outside, but the summer heat can be brutal for many, especially for our little ones. We understand that as educators, we want to take our students to the playground and let them enjoy the warm weather. However, we want them to stay safe from the hot sun! Here are some suggestions to prevent your students from overheating. 

1. Hydrate!
   The easiest way for kids to become overheated is from being dehydrated. When taking your students to the park or doing any outdoor activities, make sure to bring enough water for them. Sometimes it can be difficult to remind them to drink water when they’re busy having fun. To help you remember, set a timer for water break. After every 10 minutes, gather all of your students, and have them take a few sips of water. This will keep them hydrated and energized. 

2. Wear sunscreen
   We want our students to play outside, but we also want to protect them from the sun’s harsh rays. No matter the skin tone of your students, it is recommended by the CDC that all kids wear sunscreen with at least an SPF of 15. It is also important to remember to apply at least 30 minutes before going outside and to reapply sunscreen as your students play, especially if they are playing in the water. 

3. Wear a hat
   Hats are a great way to protect your students from the sun. It helps shade their face, scalp, ears, and neck. The type of hat your students wear is important too. Hats like baseball caps are very popular, but do not protect their ears and neck. Hats such as bucket hats provide 360° protection and are recommended. 

4. Wear light clothing
   Another way to protect your students from the heat is to wear light, breathable clothing. We suggest wearing light-colored clothing because it absorbs less heat than darker colors. Lighter fabrics such as cotton also keeps your students cool without trapping heat. 

5. Take a break
   Kids don’t know when to take a break, especially when having fun outside. Extended time outside can put your students at risk for overheating. Just like setting a timer to hydrate, set a timer for playing outside. Every 30 minutes or so, have them sit in the shade for a few minutes to relax and cool down. 

‍