Summer is just around the corner and is a great time for kids of all ages to enjoy different indoor and outdoor activities. Whether they are young children or teens, there are simple ways to keep your kids safe and healthy while they enjoy the summer fun.
Recently, Loring Hospital’s Ashley Dahlberg, education coordinator and RN; and Jill Williams, registered dietitian and diabetes education coordinator, hosted a Facebook Live event to discuss swim safety, first aid tips, healthy eating, and more. Here are some key takeaways as well as two simple, healthy recipes to officially kick off summer!
Safety Tips from Ashley Dahlberg
Five Things to Know When Choosing a Life Jacket
1. Stamp of Approval - The lifejacket must be United States Coast Guard (USCG) approved. Look for the USCG stamp on the inside of the lifejacket, alongside sizing and other valuable information.
2. Size - Make sure the life jacket is the correct size. The life jacket should be snug but allow you to move freely.
3. Condition - In order to work properly, the life jacket must be in good and serviceable condition.
4. Style - The best type of life jacket for recreational boating is the vest-type.
5. Wear It! - A great fitting USCG approved life jacket in excellent condition isn’t useful if you don’t wear it!
Click here to learn more about factors to consider when choosing a life jacket.
Know the Facts about Drowning
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning remains a leading cause of unintentional death for people of all ages – especially for children under 14. Check this article out to learn more about the causes of drowning and how to prevent it from happening.
How to Properly Fit a Bike Helmet
Helmets come in various sizes and can vary between manufacturers. Follow the steps outlined here on how to properly fit a helmet.
Healthy Eating Tips from Jill Williams
Stay Hydrated
· Keep a water bottle near by
· Encourage water every 15 minutes during physical activity
· Create fun flavors by adding slices of fruits or vegetables to your water
Utilize Snacks
· Pair food groups together at snack time
· Try to reach for a food group you may have missed at a previous meal
Keep it Simple
· Utilize the USDA MyPlate Image as a guide to meal planning
· Try to build three meals daily around this image, if you miss a food group—sneak it back in at snack time
Recipes
Refreshing Breakfast Waffle
· 1 Multigrain Toaster Waffle
· 2 Tbsp Vanilla Greek Yogurt
· 1 Tbsp Peanut Butter
· 1/4 Cup Berries (any fruit)
1. Spread Greek yogurt and/or peanut butter over toasted waffle.
2. Top with sliced strawberries, blueberries or fruit of choice.
Loaded Banana Sundae
· 1/2 Banana, cut lengthwise
· 1 Tbsp Peanut Butter
· 2 Tbsp Vanilla Greek Yogurt
· 1/8 Cup Berries
· Sprinkle of Granola
1. Spread peanut butter on sliced banana and top with Greek yogurt.
2. Sprinkle with berries of choice and a dash of Granola
Healthy tips and recipes can also be downloaded here.
For questions or for additional information, call 712-662-7105. Wishing you all a safe and fun summer!