Tips for Summer Vacation for Families with Children

Covid-19 (the new coronavirus disease) affects children much less than adults. However, as families with children plan to go on vacation during the new normal process that began with the control of the pandemic, they want to know how to behave and what to pay attention to. Here are some tips for summer vacation for families with children in the new normal :

How Should Summer Vacation with Children Be in the New Normal?

Travel by Your Own Vehicle

Since the risk of virus transmission is higher in public transport, it will be safer to use your own vehicle or rent a car for vacation. If only family members are in the car, you can run the air conditioning while ensuring that the air does not blow directly on the children. This way, it prevents the driver from feeling uncomfortable or fainting while driving with a mask under the sun on a long journey.

Swim in the Sea, Not in the Pool

According to some opinions, since chlorination prevents the virus from being active, pools are also safe; however, the chlorine level is not suitable for babies and children. During this process, the sea seems to be safer than the pool.

Go to Quiet Places Where You Can Follow Social Distancing Rules

Maintaining social distance is one of the most important issues to pay attention to while having a summer vacation in the new normal process . Therefore, it is necessary to prefer quiet places with not too many people, and if you are going to swim, make sure the beach is clean. If you are going to vacation at a facility, do not forget to inquire about the amenities provided for babies and children in advance.

It Is Dangerous to Make Children Under 2 Wear Masks

It is especially important to avoid making children under 2 wear masks. Due to the different respiratory physiology in this age group, masks can lead to dangerous outcomes, even suffocation.

Hand Washing Habits Should Continue During Vacation

Washing hands properly is one of the main measures to protect against diseases. Therefore, it is crucial to pay attention to this issue while vacationing with children in the new normal process . Ensure that your child washes their hands properly for 20 seconds before and after eating, after using the toilet, after touching shared materials in places like the sea and playground, and after getting out of the vehicle.

Ensure Your Child Gets Half an Hour of Sun Every Day

Sunlight is the number one source of vitamin D. To ensure your child benefits from vitamin D and the other positive effects of sunlight, allow their face, neck, arms, and legs to sunbathe between 10:30 – 11:00 or 14:00 – 15:00. Do not use sunscreen during this time.

At noon, the sun is directly overhead and can harm children's skin. In the mornings and late afternoons, the sun's rays come at too steep an angle to benefit adequately. Therefore, it is recommended to prefer the above times.

Exercise with Your Child

During the pandemic, some of us remained inactive for nearly three months. However, it is essential to lead an active lifestyle to strengthen the immune system . While having a summer vacation in the new normal , regularly exercise with your child. Swim, go for walks, ride bikes.

Red and Purple Fruits Strengthen the Immune System

Pay attention to balanced nutrition during vacation. Include seasonal fruits in your child's daily diet that have antioxidant properties and strengthen the immune system, such as cherries, grapes, blackberries, mulberries, and plums. Do not allow them to eat fast food or pastries. Avoid skipping meals and eating a monotonous diet.

Make Sure Your Child Drinks Enough Water

Do not wait for your child to say "I'm thirsty" to give them water. Ensure they drink plenty of water throughout the day to protect them from the negative effects of heat and weather changes.

Sleep Routine Should Continue During Vacation

Disruption of the sleep cycle negatively affects the immune system. Therefore, pay attention to ensure your child does not go to bed and wake up much later than usual during vacation. Be as meticulous about sleep routines as you are at home.

(Recommendations: Pediatric Health and Diseases Specialist Dr. Elif Köşeli Şahin)