Tips for Camping with Kids

Many families enjoy spending time outdoors during the summer. Camping is an economical way to vacation together and enjoy the wonders of nature. Children can particularly enjoy the adventures of camping, but having a safe and fun camping trip requires some planning on the part of Mom and Dad.

Safety

1. Sun Protection: A painful sunburn can quickly turn a camping trip from fun to misery. Children and adults should use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15. Read the label and make sure that it protects against UVA and UVB rays. It should be applied 15-30 minutes before going out into the sun. Also remember that clouds do not block all of the sun's rays; you can get sunburned on a cloudy day. Water, snow, and sand also reflect the sun's rays, making the sun exposure even more hazardous. Apply sunscreen liberally, and don't miss any spots! Use a lip balm with sunscreen, too. Wearing hats and sunglasses can provide further sun protection.

2. Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can result in an itchy camping trip. They can also cause serious health problems, such as encephalitis and West Nile Virus. Make sure you and your kids use insect repellent to avoid these problems. A common and effective ingredient in insect repellents is DEET. The maximum concentration of DEET recommended for children is 30%, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. DEET should not be used on infants under 2 months old. It is best to avoid products that combine sunscreen and insect repellent because sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours, while insect repellent should not be reapplied. A good way to apply insect repellent to children is to spray it on your own hands, then rub it onto your child's skin.

3. Flotation Devices: If you are going to be near water, it is a good idea to have your children wear life jackets or flotation vests. Even children who can swim can quickly be swept away by a fast moving river. Closely supervise all children near water, never leaving them alone.