How to Keep Kids Cool and Hydrated at Outdoor Events
Are you ready for summer fun? It doesn’t matter if you’re reading this during the summer or the dead of winter. Planning for your outdoor summer activities is exciting and fun. Yes, your kids are eager to get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather and bright sun. But keeping them safe needs to be the priority.
Most importantly, your kids need to be hydrated. Without enough water intake, kids (and adults!) dehydrate fast in the hot sun. And the health risks with dehydration are enormous – heat exhaustion, heatstroke, muscle cramps, and even kidney failure are all possible. Fortunately, there are simple things you can do to keep your kiddos safe when the sun comes out.
Warning Signs of Overheating in Kids
It’s all fun and games until someone gets too hot, right? Overheating in kids is no joke, especially when they’re running around at a summer party. Here’s what to look out for:
Flushed Skin – If their cheeks are bright red or their skin feels hotter than usual, it’s a sign that their body is struggling to keep cool.
Excessive Sweating (or Lack of It) – Sweating is the body’s way of cooling down. If they stop sweating or sweat more than usual, it’s a red flag.
Fatigue – If your child starts acting extra tired, sluggish, or complains about feeling weak, it could be a sign they’ve overdone it.
Dizziness or Nausea – If they’re complaining of feeling dizzy or queasy, it’s time to take action. Overheating can mess with their balance and make them feel sick.
Rapid Breathing or Heart Rate – If their breathing is fast or they’re panting like a dog, their body is likely struggling to get the oxygen it needs.
If you spot any of these signs, take it seriously. Move them to a shaded area, give them cool water, and get them some rest. If things don’t improve quickly, don’t hesitate to call a doctor.
What to Do if Your Child Becomes Overheated
So, your child’s starting to show signs of overheating. Don’t panic! There’s plenty you can do to help them cool down and get back to having fun.
Move Them to the Shade – Get them out of the sun immediately. A cool, shaded area will help their body start to regulate its temperature. If you’ve got a pop-up tent or umbrella, that’s a perfect spot to rest.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate – Offer them cool water, not sugary drinks. Water is the best way to rehydrate. Take small sips every few minutes—no gulping or chugging, as that can upset their stomach.
Cool Them Down – Gently cool them off with a damp towel or a cold compress on the neck, forehead, or wrists. If you’re near a pool or a water source, a quick dip in cool (not icy!) water can also help.
Rest and Recover – Let them lie down and relax in the shade until they feel better. Rest is key to helping their body recover. Don’t rush them back into play until they’re feeling normal again.
Monitor for Worsening Symptoms – Keep an eye on them for the next 30 minutes to an hour. If they don’t improve or get worse, call a doctor. Better safe than sorry!
By staying calm and following these steps, you can help your child bounce back and keep everyone enjoying the party.
How Much Water Should a Child Drink Each Day
Kids need different amounts of water depending on their age, size, and how active they are. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are some general guidelines to follow. Keep in mind, these are just starting points—each child is unique!
Toddlers (1-3 years) – Around 4 cups (32 ounces) of water a day. They’re small, but they still need hydration to keep up with their playtime.
Preschoolers (4-5 years) – About 5 cups (40 ounces). As they grow and start being more active, their water needs go up too.
School-age kids (6-8 years) – Aim for around 7 cups (56 ounces). These kids are usually running around at school or after-school activities, so hydration is key.
Older kids (9-12 years) – 8 cups (64 ounces). As they get older and more active, their water intake needs will be higher to keep up with their energy levels.
Teens (13-18 years) – Around 8-12 cups (64-96 ounces), depending on their activity level. Teenagers are often involved in sports or long hours outside, so keeping them hydrated is crucial.
These are just guidelines. On hot days or during intense activity, your child may need more water. Be sure to watch for signs of dehydration and offer water regularly, especially during those summer parties!
Ways to Help Kids Stay Cool Outside Without a Pool
No pool? No problem! You can still keep your kids cool and entertained on those hot summer days. With a little creativity, there are tons of ways to splash and cool down without jumping in the pool. Here are some fun and easy activities to keep the kids refreshed:
Sprinkler Fun – Set up a sprinkler in the yard for the kids to run through. It’s a classic and a great way to cool off. You can find sprinklers shaped like animals or fun characters that add extra excitement.
Water Balloon Fight – Fill up some water balloons and let the kids have a blast throwing them at each other. This is a great way for them to cool down while getting in some active play.
DIY Water Slide – Lay down a tarp in the yard, spray it with water, and watch the kids turn it into their own slip-and-slide. Add a little soap for extra slip, and you’ve got an instant summer hit.
Frozen Water Bottles – Freeze a few water bottles and give them to the kids as ice packs. They can roll them on their faces and necks for an instant cool-down. You could also have them play a game where they have to pass around the frozen bottles without letting them fall.
Spray Bottles – Fill spray bottles with cool water and let the kids mist themselves. It’s an easy, no-mess way to keep everyone cool. Plus, it’s a fun way for them to cool each other off!
Frozen Treats – Make homemade ice pops or freeze fruit into ice cubes and let the kids enjoy them as a snack. It's a sweet way to stay cool, and they’ll love it!
These activities are budget-friendly and perfect for keeping your kids cool, even without a pool. Let the fun—and the splashing—begin!
Schedule the Perfect Outdoor Activity
Want to give the kids at your party the perfect outdoor activity? Schedule an easy and fun foam party! Chicago Foam Company is the area’s oldest and most reliable foam party company for birthdays and other events.
Our foam parties are safe, allergen-free, and completely full-service. Unlike some companies, we take care of everything from total set-up, running the party, and clean-up. All we need from you is access to an outdoor electrical outlet and an outdoor water spigot. To book your party, contact us today.