3 min read

Protecting Your Child's Health This Summer

May 28, 2014 2:30:00 AM

Children having picnicSummer is right around the corner, and it’s time to put away the coats and bring out shorts and swim suits. Children all the way from pre-school to high school will soon be released from yet another school year, with a few months of freedom until the fall semester. The summer months are a great time to play sports, go the beach, or ride a bike around the neighborhood. Parents love to see their kids outside having a good time, but when it comes to playing outside…

“Just one more level!” or “My favorite show is on!”

With the advancements in video game and cell phone technology, studies show that on average children today are more sedentary than ever. Increasing obesity rates, especially among children, are a scary reality that our country faces. Experts suggest that these higher obesity rates in children may may result in our population experiencing rising rates of lifestyle-related diseases, including type 2 diabetes; a problem that could add to the already spiraling cost of healthcare.

Exercise is a major ingredient in the recipe for a healthy lifestyle. Although there are differing opinions on how much exercise children should get, most experts agree that kids should at least be active for an hour a day, if not more. Many organizations have tips for helping motivate children to be active, including the National Football League with its cleverly titled “Play 60” movement. Check out the following websites for more helpful tips!

But once the kids get outside…

“Come on, I don’t need any sunscreen!”

For kids, putting on sunscreen feels like another minute or two holding them back from building that sandcastle on the beach or splashing their siblings in the backyard pool. However, that one or two minute pause in the outdoor fun may be enough to save a lifetime of medical issues. UVA and UVB rays can be extremely dangerous in cases of direct exposure for extended periods of time. Melanoma (skin cancer), cataracts of the eyes, and many other serious conditions affect numerous Americans who are inadequately prepared for the hot temperatures.

  • Apply sunscreen (at least SPF 15) before going outside and reapply as necessary.
  • Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes damage from UV rays.
  • Avoid extended sun exposure during peak UV ray times (10 AM to 4 PM).
  • For more information, visit the CDC website on sun protection

“Watch! Look What I Can Do!”

Accidents happen, even to the most cautious of individuals. Cut, scrapes, and possibly even more severe injuries are possible to anyone who is physically active. Although you can’t completely prevent these things from happening, it is essential to know what to do when accidents do occur. Also, it is important to understand your health benefits before you need them, as you may not be thinking clearly in times of crisis.

In cases of true emergencies, do not hesitate to call 911 or proceed to the emergency room. However, after thorough analysis, if the situation does not seem to be a true emergency, many urgent care facilities are available “after hours” to help with these situations. Urgent care facilities are typically much more cost-efficient or have a lower co-pays in health insurance plans than emergency room visits. And finally, if the situation calls for medication, make sure you are taking advantage of generic equivalents if it is determined by your doctor to be a viable option.

We know we are ready for summer here at Gibson. Are you?

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Written by Gibson

Gibson is a team of risk management and employee benefits professionals with a passion for helping leaders look beyond what others see and get to the proactive side of insurance. As an employee-owned company, Gibson is driven by close relationships with their clients, employees, and the communities they serve. The first Gibson office opened in 1933 in Northern Indiana, and as the company’s reach grew, so did their team. Today, Gibson serves clients across the country from offices in Arizona, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Utah.