Summer is upon us and that means lots of time spent outdoors being active! Living in Minnesota, our warm weather months are far too short and we highly encourage you to get out and get active as much as possible. That being said, we want to provide you with some very valuable information on summer safety tips for active kids.

Tip 1 - Sunscreen - Preventing Skin Damage From The Sun

Make it part of your daily routine to make sure the entire family applies sunscreen first thing in the morning. This will decrease the likelihood of forgetting to apply it and hopefully decrease harmful sunburns. You can find a list of best sunscreens for kids here. 

Tip 2 - Bug Spray - Preventing Bug-Borne Illnesses

Just like sunscreen if your children are spending a significant amount of time outdoors make applying bug spray part of their morning routine. You can find some great all-natural affordable options that are safe to use everyday or make your own by simply combining the following ingredients in a dark-colored spray bottle: 

• 1/4 cup water 

• 1/4 cup witch hazel astringent (use distillate for dry or sensitive skin) 

• 1/2 tsp Brain Octane Oil or other light culinary oil 

• 10 drops lemon eucalyptus essential oil 

• 10 drops citronella essential oil 

• 10 drops tea tree essential oil 

• 5 drops geranium essential oil 

• 5 drops lavender essential oil

Tip 3 - Buckle Up

Continue to remind the whole family of the importance of buckling up anytime they are riding in a motorized vehicle.

Tip 4 - Life Jackets 

Whenever you and your family are enjoying lake time be sure to have your life jacket on and fastened securely. Remember that life jackets are a good idea even if your little one is playing on the shore.

Tip 5 - Hydration

Keep hydrated, especially on hot summer days remember to drink enough water. Make it easier to stay hydrated by always carrying a reusable water bottle with you and aiming to drink 7-10 cups per day.

Tip 6 - Nutritious Foods

One of the most amazing things about summer in Minnesota is our easy access to fresh local produce! Be sure that you are taking advantage of foods that are in season by shopping local. Make it your goal for your family to eat the rainbow, think of color with every meal and snack. Great snacks for active kids on the go include (definitely not limited to just these):

• Fresh raw veggies

• Fresh fruits

• Raw nuts

• Granola

• Dried fruit

Tip 7 - Watchful Eye

It is always important to keep a watchful eye on your children, especially when they are active kids constantly on the go. Do your best to keep up and keep them safe!