While it is essential to allow children to have free play time outdoors, it is also essential to ensure that they are hydrated and healthy while playing. Unfortunately, kids tend to forget to drink water throughout the day, even when outside playing.
Hydration is essential to prevent dehydration, especially in kids. Kids have a decreased ability to know how to regulate their body temperature as compared to adults. Furthermore, depending on their age, they may not be able to communicate that they feel dehydrated.
There are various ways to keep them hydrated and healthy while playing. Unfortunately, kids cannot recognize when they are thirsty and dehydrated. Thus, here are a few ways to help keep them cool and hydrated when playing outdoors.
Shaded Areas
One way to keep them cool is to find shaded areas to take breaks and cool down in. Alternatively, you can also look out for playgrounds with shade structures that keep them cool and shaded from the sun, even during playtime.
Take Water
Although many playgrounds provide water fountains, you should not wholly rely on them. Provide your kids with bottled water to keep them cool. Alternatively, you can provide them with snacks that keep them hydrated, such as:
- Zucchini
- Cucumber
- Tomato
- Grapes
- Pineapple
- Strawberries
- Oranges
- Blueberries
You can also freeze these fruits to keep them cool or make them into fruit slushies by blending them with ice. These snacks are naturally hydrating and are a healthy alternative to chips and cookies.
You can also use insulated water bottles to keep cold water cold, especially in the summer.
Visit the Playground Earlier or Later in the Day
Visiting the playground before 10 am or 4 pm can be helpful to keep your kids cool while playing in the sun. These times are usually the coolest part of the day when the sun is still low in the sky.
Visit Aquatic Playgrounds
Alternatively, you can visit aquatic playgrounds that incorporate water fountains into the playground. This can help them stay calm. However, although they may be cool and wet, it is also essential to keep them hydrated simultaneously.
Final Thoughts
When visiting playgrounds, you must keep your kids hydrated and protected from the sun. Remember to help them with sunscreen and re-apply them when necessary.
By planning, you can keep your children cool and hydrated while they play outdoors. Various benefits staying hydrated can provide your kids, including healthy bones, increased blood flow, and more.
Austin Stanfel 