Children’s Summer Health: Keeping Kids Safe and Healthy During Holidays

By Dr. Brajesh Kumar Agrawal in Internal Medicine

Apr 30, 2025

Summer holidays bring joy and a sense of freedom for children. They love to play, travel, and enjoy their favorite activities during this break. However, the hot weather, exposure to the sun, and irregular routines can lead to health issues. With a little extra care, parents can ensure their children stay healthy and safe throughout the summer.

1. Keep Them Hydrated

In the summer heat, children tend to lose a lot of water through sweat, making dehydration a common concern. Remind them to stay well-hydrated by drinking water regularly throughout the day. Natural drinks like coconut water, lemonade & buttermilk are excellent for hydration. Avoid sugary soft drinks and packaged juices, as they offer little nutrition and can contribute to heat fatigue.

2. Light and Nutritious Meals

Heavy, fried, and spicy foods can be hard on children’s digestive systems in hot weather. Offer light, homemade meals that include fresh fruits and vegetables. Seasonal fruits like watermelon, muskmelon, mango, and cooling foods like cucumber and curd help maintain body temperature and boost immunity.

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3. Protection from Sun

Avoid taking children outside during peak heat hours (12 PM to 4 PM), when the risk of heatstroke is highest. If going out is necessary, dress them in light-colored cotton clothes, apply sunscreen on exposed skin, and make sure they wear a hat or carry an umbrella for sun protection.

4. Maintain Hygiene

Summer heat and sweat can lead to skin infections, rashes, and fungal issues. Ensure children bathe daily, wear clean clothes, and maintain personal hygiene. Keep their nails trimmed and teach them to wash hands regularly, especially before eating and after playing.

5. Indoor Activities and Safe Play

It’s not always safe for kids to play outside in extreme heat. Engage them in indoor games like board games, art and craft, puzzles, or storytelling. These activities not only keep them physically safe but also support cognitive and creative development.

6. Balanced Routine and Sleep

Summer break often disrupts children’s routines. Staying up late, skipping meals, or irregular sleeping patterns can weaken their immunity. Try to maintain a regular schedule — fixed sleeping and waking times, proper meals, and screen time limits to keep their health in check.