S.P.R.I.N.G. into Summer
As summer nears, so does a multitude of potential health and safety hazards. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Rhonda Conner-Warren has devised a simple acronym to help parents protect their children this summer.
S.P.R.I.N.G.
S. Sunshine Means Sunscreen
Sunshine is great help. The warmth of the sun energizes and is also great source of vitamin D. This vitamin helps to thrive and grow. My grandmother use to say "children grow like a weeds" in the summer time. She meant, when we played outside we seemed to grow taller and stronger. She was right.
Vitamin D is said to be unique because it can be made in the skin from exposure to sunlight. When the skin is exposed to sunlight in manufactures vitamin D, the sun's ultraviolet rays interact with protein called 7- DHC and this is important and essential for healthy bones.
Our biggest concern is that getting the vitamin D from the sun exposure can be done incorrectly and increases the chances of skin cancer. So when you’re thinking about sun exposure, think about skin protection. No matter the color of your skin, sunscreen application is important.
It is also important to follow the directions printed on your product. Select a product that has a high SPF factor and remember you need to reapply per the directions of the manufacturer. When driving think about sun guards to protect children and keep their care seats "cool". Reflective surfaces (pools, lakes, and slides) will also reflect the sun's rays so think of wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from the damaging effects of sun.
STEALTHING talk to your teens about this recent activity.
Remember to use sunscreen!
P. Plant and Grow Roots
This can also mean taking the time for the children to have a garden and to watch things grow, especially the toddlers and preschoolers. Encourage them to select fruits, vegetables, or herbs that they would enjoy using in salads and smoothies during family cooking time. When you have these activities you're also planting roots and making memories.
Participate in community gardens. These activities promote family time, community involvement, and responsibilities.
R. Reach for the Stars at Night
This time of the day can include star gazing or creative activity such as storytelling and or reading a story out loud. These activities can build the imagination, communication, and possibly writing skills. But most of all this time allows for families to build memories. Remember technology, such as FaceTime, can help those that are far away to be a part of this activity. Storytelling can start with a key phrase, "On a warm summer day . . ."
I. Inclement weather
Thunderstorms or Tornadoes can occur at any time. Include the children and the pets when making a safety plan and have a drill. Everyone should know where to go. There should be an emergency supplies box with radio, flashlights, batteries, blankets, water, food, snacks, and other family essentials.
N. Note Your Healthcare Needs
Pack a first aid kit using a simple plastic bag including items such as Band-Aids, topical anti-infective ointment, anti-itching creams or lotions. For emergency medications, check for expiration dates as well as refills such as inhalers, allergy, insulin products and Epi-pens.
If you are traveling out of town keep a list of the medications with you. Select a phone app with your pharmacy information in case your medications are lost or run out. Know where the nearest urgent care or emergency room is located and make sure you know the difference between the two. Be informed about the details of your insurance coverage.
G. Get Going
Exercise can take many forms during the warmer months. Some of the best conversations I ever had with family members were walks to the park. If you use technology in your family, there are plenty of fitness apps that can monitor and initiate a walking challenge to one another and have fun in the sun! Remember that walking can also be an opportunity to de-stress.
Use sunscreen!
Stay safe, stay well, and stay informed.
Rhonda Conner-Warren
PhD, RN, CPNP-PC
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
