Family holidays are a time to relax, explore new places, and make lasting memories together. While exciting adventures and a break from routine are all part of the fun, it’s also important to keep your children healthy and happy while you’re away.
Head of Paediatrics, Kate Lewis at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital has provided 10 tips on how to protect your little ones during the summer holidays. From guidance on how to prevent sunburn to encouraging good hygiene and healthy eating habits, a few simple precautions can go a long way in preventing illness and avoiding unnecessary stress.
10 Tips for Parents During the School Summer Holidays
1. Clean Hands, Happy Holidays
Germs don’t take holidays. Regular hand washing (especially before meals) is your best defence. Pack a travel-sized hand sanitiser for when you’re on the move, and encourage your children to wash their hands thoroughly after using the toilet, before eating, and after playing outside or on public transport.
2. Watch What They Eat
Trying new foods is part of the adventure, but keep an eye on hygiene. Steer clear of food that’s been sitting out for hours, especially in hot weather. Teach older children to be cautious too, sometimes street snacks can bring the holiday fun to a halt.
3. Sun Safety Matters
A little sun goes a long way. To help protect against sunburn and reduce the long-term risk of skin cancer, apply high-factor sunscreen regularly, especially after swimming. Don’t forget hats and sunglasses, and try to stick to shady spots during peak hours (usually between 11am and 4pm).
4. Hydration Is Key
In warm climates, children can get dehydrated quickly. Remind them to drink plenty of fluids, even before they feel thirsty. Pack reusable water bottles and keep them topped up. Staying hydrated helps keep energy levels steady and supports the immune system.
5. Pack An Essential Aid Kit
It’s wise to be ready for minor mishaps. Include plasters, antiseptic wipes, antihistamines, insect repellent, and anything your child regularly takes. If illness does happen, you’ll be prepared. A small thermometer and oral rehydration salts can also come in handy.
6. Keep a Diary If They Get Sick
If your child does become ill, jot down symptoms, temperatures, and what they’ve eaten. This can be incredibly helpful if you need to seek medical advice abroad or once you’re back home.
7. Face Masks In Busy Spaces
Especially in airports or on packed public transport, wearing a mask can help reduce the risk of spreading or catching germs. Not always necessary, but good to have on hand if you’re in crowded indoor areas.
8. Footwear That’s Fit For Fun
Bare feet may scream ‘holiday’, but beaches and pools can hide sharp objects, insects or hot surfaces. Sensible shoes with rubber sandals can protect little feet from cuts, burns, or slips around the pool.
9. Airflow In Hotel Rooms
A stuffy room can make sleep difficult and allow germs to linger. If safe to do so, crack open a window to improve airflow, or make use of aircon to keep things fresh. Just avoid blasting cold air directly onto sleeping children.
10. Keep Routines Where You Can
Late nights and irregular meals can throw children off balance, especially younger ones. While it’s fine to relax the rules a bit, sticking to familiar meal times and bedtime routines (as much as possible) helps keep their energy up and their immune system ticking along. Even on holiday, a bit of structure can make a big difference to how they feel.
Wherever you’re heading this summer, a little preparation goes a long way. Keeping kids healthy on holiday doesn’t have to mean worrying constantly, just a few sensible steps can give your family the freedom to enjoy the break, stress-free.
Paediatric Clinic at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital
At St John & Elizabeth’s Hospital, they are deeply committed to providing the highest quality healthcare for children of all ages from birth onwards! The paediatric team provide consultation, advice and treatment designed to support the health and well-being of all their patients and their families.
Call the friendly team on 020 7078 3831 or visit their paediatric clinic webpage.
