Summer is a time for families to enjoy good weather and being outside. Children love playing outside in the summer months; in the garden, on the beach and at playgrounds, parks or attractions. Being aware of some of the risks can help you to keep your family safe while you all enjoy the sun.
From sunburn, infant feeding, hydration and wearing the correct clothing – all the way through to what to do if your child falls and you worry they may have a broken bone – this page will guide you to a safe and fun summer holidays.
With the cost of living still an issue for many families we have also included information on agencies and schemes that can provide support with the cost of food and bills and where you can find free summer activities for you and your children.
Advice, guidance and support to help families with the common summer risks.
Vaccinations
Getting
your child vaccinated is the best way of protecting them from different illnesses. There has been a drop in uptake levels of children getting their routine vaccines and cases of illnesses such as Measles and Whooping Cough are rising. It’s never too late for children to catch up on their childhood vaccines, even if they have missed them in the past, or you are unsure about your child’s vaccination history.
Check your child's red book or contact your GP to make sure that they are up to date with all of their vaccines.
Getting vaccinated will not only protect your child but also protect others by stopping outbreaks in nurseries and schools and reducing the risk of spread to your family and friends. It may also help you avoid having to take time off work or arrange alternative childcare as a result of your child getting ill.
Washing Hands & Covering Coughs or Sneezes
Some
illnesses such as coughs, colds, or tummy upsets can spread from one person to another very easily. There are some simple things that you can do to reduce the risk of this happening.
The most important thing is to teach your child to always wash their hands well, using hot water and soap, using a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes, and keeping away from others when feeling unwell. This will help to reduce the risk of picking up, or spreading, infections.
Attending School or Nursery
Depending
on the type of infection your child has, it may be best to keep them off school or nursery. If your child is infectious, there is a risk they could pass it to others in their school or nursery, or amongst other members of your family.
Hay Fever
Summer
can be a fun and exciting time for children in the UK, but it can also be a time when allergies can flare up. Here are some tips for dealing with summer allergies:
First of all, it's important to know what they are allergic to so you can avoid it. Pollen is a common allergen in the summer, so you might want to avoid spending too much time outside on days when the pollen count is high. You can check the pollen count on the weather forecast or on the internet.
Another way to deal with summer allergies is to keep your home clean and free from allergens. Vacuuming and dusting regularly can help get rid of pollen and other allergens that may have made their way inside. You can also try using an air purifier to clean the air inside your home.
Finally, if your allergies are really bothering you, you might want to talk to your doctor about getting some medicine. There are lots of different kinds of allergy medicine that can help relieve your symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
For more detail on what local support you can receive in your area, choose an option below.
The Big Norfolk Holiday Fun Programme provides holiday activities for children and young people aged 5-16 in Norfolk. If your child is 4 years old but they are in school, they can take part. It helps your child move lots, eat well and have fun.
The next Big Norfolk Holiday Fun programme will be taking place during the Summer holidays.
Children who are eligible for means-tested free school meals can claim free spaces on the activities, whilst paid spots are available on many activities for those who don’t.
You can speak to any professional working with your family, they will be able to support you to access the help you need.
If you or someone you know is facing hardship and needs support now, they can access support from the Norfolk Assistance Scheme or by calling 01603 223392(Option 5). They can help provide food, clothes and other essential household items to families in need.
If you live in Suffolk you can access support from the Suffolk Local Welfare Assistance Scheme. They can provide financial support, advice and guidance.
You can also contact the Healthy Child Service by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123 or texting Parentline on 07520631590. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.
If you are 11-19 you can text ChatHealth on 07480635060 for confidential advice from one of our team.
You can speak to other Norfolk parents and carers by clicking our online community forum below.
