How to Prepare Your Family for Pool and Beach Outings
There is nothing like a trip to the pool or beach to create a fun summer for your family. However, you want to take the steps to ensure your outing goes smoothly. Use the following tips to prepare your family for pool and beach outings this summer.
Precautions for Health
The first thing you want to do is take the proper health-related precautions, especially if you are planning your outing while in a pandemic. If you live close enough, do a quick check of the pool or beach to ensure it is not crowded. You may not be able to enter the area if it has reached maximum capacity. Otherwise, remind your family to stay at least 6 feet away from others at these locations. It is also best to bring your masks and hand sanitizer as a safety precaution.
General Safety Precautions
The water can become a dangerous spot in a matter of seconds. You want to choose a spot that is not too shallow for your children, and be sure your children are wearing the proper safety gear. Set ground rules that prohibit your children from playing rough in the water. It is very important to stay by your child at all times to prevent your outing from turning into a tragedy. Remember to also check the weather and tides to ensure the beach is safe to visit that day.
Be Mindful of the Sun
You also want to be mindful of the sun when spending hours at the pool or beach. Everyone should use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 and UVA and UVB protection. You can also invest in sunglasses with UV protection and wide-brim hats. Avoid going outside when the sun is at its hottest, such as between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. during the summer. Locate the shaded areas if you do go out during the hot periods, and be sure to keep everyone hydrated throughout the day.
Bring High-Quality Swimwear
Good swimsuits should be comfortable and not too difficult to put on or take off. Inspect your children’s swimwear to make sure it is fitting properly. As they are still growing, a little bit of give in the fabric is usually okay. Parents often focus solely on their children’s comfort, but it is important for them to keep in mind their own needs as well. There are many comfortable swimsuits for adults like those at dosgardenias.com which can help you have fun in the surf as well.
If you keep the above tips in mind, you can create a day at the pool or beach that is fun and safe.
Brooke Chaplan is a freelance writer and blogger. She lives and works out of her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico. She loves the outdoors and spends most of her time hiking, biking, and gardening. For more information, contact Brooke via Facebook at facebook.com/brooke.chaplan or Twitter @BrookeChaplan
