Keep your child safe and healthy this monsoon! Follow these essential dos and don’ts for happy and healthy kids.
5 Dos and Don’ts for Child Care During Rains
The monsoon season, while refreshing and invigorating for many, can also pose certain challenges, especially when it comes to caring for children. With the increased risk of waterborne diseases, infections, and accidents, it’s essential to take extra precautions to ensure your child’s health and safety. Here are some dos and don’ts to guide you through this rainy season:
Dos
1. Prioritize Hygiene
- Frequent Handwashing: Encourage your child to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after playing outdoors, using the bathroom, and before meals.
- Cleanliness at Home: Maintain a clean and hygienic environment indoors. Regularly disinfect surfaces, toys, and frequently touched areas.
- Safe Drinking Water: Ensure your child consumes only boiled or filtered water. Avoid consuming water directly from outside sources.
- Personal Hygiene: Teach your child the importance of covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of tissues properly.
2. Protect Against Mosquitoes
- Mosquito Nets: Use mosquito nets over beds and cribs to protect your child from mosquito bites.
- Repellents: Apply mosquito repellents cautiously, following the product instructions. Avoid using repellents on infants.
- Long Sleeves: Dress your child in long sleeves and pants during the evening to minimize exposure to mosquitoes.
- Stagnant Water: Eliminate potential breeding grounds for mosquitoes by ensuring there’s no stagnant water around your home.
3. Boost Immunity
- Nutritious Diet: Provide your child with a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and proteins to strengthen their immune system.
- Adequate Sleep: Ensure your child gets enough rest to help their body fight off infections.
- Regular Exercise: Encourage indoor activities like dancing, yoga, or jumping jacks to keep your child active.
4. Safe Outdoor Play
- Supervision: Always supervise your child when playing outdoors, especially during rainy weather.
- Footwear: Ensure your child wears proper footwear to prevent slips and falls.
- Avoid Waterlogged Areas: Keep your child away from waterlogged areas and puddles to prevent accidents.
- Umbrella or Raincoat: Provide your child with an umbrella or raincoat for protection from the rain.
5. Stay Hydrated
- Water Intake: Encourage your child to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Healthy Fluids: Offer other hydrating fluids like coconut water or fresh fruit juices.
- Avoid Cold Drinks: Limit consumption of cold drinks as they can affect the digestive system.
Don’ts
- Avoid Wet Clothes: Don’t let your child wear wet clothes for an extended period as it can lead to chills.
- Unhygienic Food: Avoid buying or consuming street food to prevent foodborne illnesses.
- Overheating: Don’t overdress your child, as excessive sweating can lead to discomfort.
- Ignoring Symptoms: Don’t ignore any signs of illness in your child. Consult a pediatrician if symptoms persist.
- Neglecting Indoor Activities: Don’t confine your child indoors without engaging them in stimulating activities.
By following these dos and don’ts, you can help protect your child’s health and well-being during the rainy season. Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Enjoy the monsoon with your child while taking necessary precautions.
