As a parent, you have every right to worry about your kids’ health whenever they’re partaking in activities with other children. Though the world is slowly returning to normal after the COVID-19 pandemic, parents are still taking precautions when it comes to their children and playdates. Interaction among children is crucial for their development and there are many benefits to having your kids play with others, but you should always keep health and safety in mind.
At Kids Gotta Play, we take outdoor activities and fun seriously, but we also want to ensure your children are safe each day. This is why we’ve compiled a list of tips to keep your children happy and healthy during their next playdate.
Common Illnesses in Children
The fall brings new seasonal allergies and popular illnesses among children. While many of these illnesses are unpleasant, they are typically not serious and can be easily treated with a trip to the pediatrician and some prescribed medications.
Common illnesses among children this time of year include:
- The common cold
- Influenza
- Ear infection
- RSV
- Bronchitis
- Strep throat
Many common childhood illnesses run their course on their own or clear up with rest and medication. However, some indications you should contact your doctor include difficulty breathing, high fever, fatigue, and dehydration.
Preventing Illness During Activities with Friends
Whether your kids are attending a birthday party at a popular venue like Chuck E. Cheese or have an after-school playdate at the neighbors’, you should be wary of germs and illness. Asking parents if their little ones have experienced a cough or runny nose lately before committing to an event will help decrease your child’s chances of catching whatever may be going around the playground.
Additionally, it’s important to instill good hand washing habits in your children to avoid the spread of germs. From playing outside to then picking up a sandwich, the amount of germs that can fester in that short amount of time can easily spread from one child to the next.
If you’re looking to schedule a playdate but are still wary about indoor activities, encourage outside play instead. Fresh air helps limit the spread of germs and children won’t be as likely to catch a cold.
Bring the Essentials
Between packing up the stroller, toys, diapers, snacks, change of clothes, and all the other necessities you and your child require, the must-haves of what you need when leaving the house with your active toddler can seem endless. Children are constantly on the move, which means they are prone to fall into things, be constantly hungry, and not always have the attention span we’d prefer. This is why it’s crucial to pack all the essentials when you’re headed out for a day of activities.
Snacks & Drinks
Kids tire out easily and they often push the limits, leaving them dehydrated and hungry. You should always remember to bring plenty of food and drinks with you when you head to the playground, a playdate, or any other activity involving a few hours of running around. A bottle of water each should be enough and a small packed lunch is perfect if you’re planning to spend the day.
Hydration plays a huge part in keeping your child healthy. Proper amounts of water help to keep your child’s immune system running strong and avoid risk of infection and illness. Always be sure to monitor the amount of water your children are consuming and try to avoid letting them drink too much juice throughout the day.
Safety Precautions
Keeping children safe is one of the main responsibilities as a parent. When heading out to play, don’t forget to pack the hand sanitizer, wipes, and disinfectant spray—it’s better to be prepared than not at all. Additionally, having a first aid kit handy is always helpful, especially when you have rambunctious kiddos running around.
Stay Safe & Healthy with Kids Gotta Play
Wooden swing sets, trampolines, basketball hoops, playhouses, and so much more; Kids Gotta Play has what Michigan families want. We are here to help families find the perfect play structure while also ensuring your stay safe and healthy while enjoying the fun. If you’re interested in sprucing up your outdoor activities list, our friendly staff can help you find the perfect addition to your backyard. Visit our website to get started on exploring your options.
