Spring Health & Safety Guide for Parents

Pediatric Associates, Inc. • April 12, 2023

 

Spring is here! The time of year when kids are chomping at the bit to get outside. After being cloistered in the house for months and only allowed outside for brief periods, now they are looking forward to spending hours outside in the spring weather. With all that future fun on the horizon, it might also be time for a spring health & safety guide for parents.

 

Ah, the Warm Sun


It feels spectacular for both parents and kids to finally feel the warm sun on their faces. Your kids have been craving it; you too. Just because it’s not the scorching heat of August doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be putting broad spectrum sunscreen on your kids. Yes, the sun provides Vitamin D, but the kids should still be wearing sunscreen even on cloudy days. Be sure to reapply if they will be out in the sunshine for long periods.


Break Out the Bikes


Don’t forget the scooters and rollerblades. Make it a point to discuss bike safety, and impress upon your kids the need for helmets. Replace any old or damaged helmets with new ones, and check the fit.


The Creepy Crawlies Are Back Too


Yes, all those insects both flying and creeping are also enjoying the spring weather. Bug sprays are the most efficient way to keep your kids safe. Read labels and pick those with less than 30% DEET. Here are some additional tips. 


There has been a surge of cases of Lyme Disease in central Ohio. It’s important for all families to take steps to prevent tick bites and know what to do in the instance of a tick bite.


If your child has trouble breathing or begins to swell, vomit, or feel faint after a bug bite, contact Pediatric Associates as soon as possible.


Manners on the Playground


Manners convert to safety. Remind your kiddos about:

  • Waiting to take their turn
  • Going down a slide feet first
  • Paying attention and holding on to railings
  • Not to take unnecessary risks or show off


You can do your part by checking the equipment for strength, durability, and hazards.


Steer Clear of Allergies


Easy to say, but your child can develop allergies when they never were bothered before. If you notice sneezing, wheezing, runny nose, and/or itchy and watery eyes, we recommend you keep them inside (even on a beautiful day), close the windows, and run the air conditioner.


Contact Pediatric Associates if you want to have them evaluated at one of our offices in Central Ohio.


For Parents: Pay Attention


A spring health & safety guide should include one more tip. Springtime brings everyone out to enjoy the warm weather. That includes kids, dogs, bikes left on the side of the road, or balls rolling down the street. All these and more can pop out at you while you are driving. Pay particular attention and maybe drive just a bit slower.


Keep springtime safe and your children healthy during a fun time of the year.


Contact Pediatric Associates at one of our locations with any questions, concerns, or injuries during this spring.



May 9, 2024 Dear Valued Families, After careful consideration, we have decided to merge our Whiteha

Whitehall Office Closure

June 10, 2024
Pediatric Associates will close the Whitehall office on Sept 13, 2024, merging with other Central Ohio locations. Patients retain access to their pediatricians.
A woman is sitting on a couch talking to a little girl holding a teddy bear.

Children Behavioral Health Care in Columbus, OH

By Pediatric Associates, Inc. • September 11, 2023
Pediatric Associates, Inc. offers comprehensive behavioral health support with a dedicated team including clinicians, nurses, care coordinators & referral specialists.
A young boy with a pencil on his forehead.

Does My Child Have ADHD?

By Pediatric Associates, Inc. • August 4, 2023
ADHD, a complex disorder often diagnosed by age 7, has various symptoms that can be hard to spot initially. Early recognition is key for effective management.
A baby is sitting on the floor playing with toys.

Navigating Product Recalls & Secondhand Items

By Pediatric Associates, Inc. • May 19, 2023
Instant food recall news is everywhere, but toy recalls are harder to find. Stay informed to keep your kids safe from defective or dangerous products.
A young boy is sitting on a couch using a tablet computer.

Screen Time: How Much Time Is Too Much For Kids?

By Pediatric Associates, Inc. • March 13, 2023
Televisions, smartphones, computers, and tablets offer info, entertainment, and social interaction, but moderation is key to prevent excessive screen time for all ages.
A woman wearing a mask is getting an injection in her arm.

HPV Vaccine: What Parents Should Know

By Pediatric Associates, Inc. • February 9, 2023
Prepare for your child's "tween" years by learning about the HPV vaccine. Discover essential info and tips in our guide for parents.
A woman is taking a child 's temperature with a thermometer.

A Guide To Treating Your Child’s Fever

By Pediatric Associates, Inc. • January 13, 2023
Fever in children is common and usually not dangerous. Defined as 100.4°F or higher, it helps fight infections. Deciding on treatment depends on specific conditions.
More Posts