Summertime is about fun and frolicking. It’s also about sun and heat, which can be health hazards if kids aren’t protected. Keep them safe with tips from David L. Hill, MD, author of Dad to Dad: Parenting Like a Pro.

Safeguard skin.
Sunscreen (go for 30+ SPF) and bug repellent are summer requisites, but be careful about combining creams. Sunscreen should be applied every two hours while kids are outdoors, but bug repellent should go on only once—it may be toxic if applied more frequently.

Hydrate often.
Children should have constant access to H2O during the warmer months
when they’re apt to sweat a lot. Since your kid is most likely too busy splashing in the sprinklers to notice his thirst, remind him to drink at least every hour to replenish body fluids.

Wear cool clothing.
Even the best sunscreen can’t compete with the sun-blocking power of a T-shirt, longish shorts and a hat. Light, breathable fabrics in bright colors like white and yellow can help reflect the sun’s rays and keep your child cooler while being covered.