Summertime is full of opportunities for things to go wrong. With all the festivals, parties, and events we attend, it's just the way it is. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control reports that more than 2.6 million children 0-19 years old are treated in the emergency department each year for sports and recreation-related injuries. I've put together a little checklist for parents to consider when being active this summer. Whether you're just hanging out in the backyard or visiting your local fair's bounce house, I recommend:
1. Making sure everyone knows the rules. If only one person is allowed at a time on the trampoline, make sure the kids know. If swimming is only allowed with an adult around, communicate this. It's silly to assume that kids know things that adults should know, especially since we know that it takes several communications for them to remember. Repeat the rules often, and demonstrate what good behavior looks like.
2. Have a plan in place. If someone does get hurt, do they know what to do? If emergency services must be called, train children to know how to call 911 or a relative for help. What should they do in the meantime? Is there a preferred hospital for older teenagers to drive to that's close by? All of these questions should be answered as a family before something happens.
3. Know basic first aid. All caregivers (even teens) should know basic care tips for minor injuries and how to handle major emergencies until help arrives. Consider enrolling them in a babysitting course that covers these items, or have them trained in basic CPR. While you're at it, brush up on the newest guidelines for yourself!
4. Get help for the worst. If someone does happen to break a leg or get sick, it's good to know that you're not completely alone. In addition to the cost of medical care, accidents can also cause financial hardship when work is missed. Getting a policy from Aflac is a good way to have the extra support you need in times of trouble. Look at how a plan can be implemented before you need it!
Aflac's One Day Pay℠ initiative can get you money in one business day for help paying for rent, gas, groceries, child care, and more when a covered serious illness, injury, or less occurs. (Aflac is the leading provider of voluntary insurance at the work site. Aflac has a presence in all 50 states, as well as in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.) Accidents happen. Get covered by learning more about Aflac's accident coverage. Then see your employer about this supplement that, combined with your regular health plan, can see your family through the "uh-oh's" in life! (Because we can't stop living life when there's so much fun to be had.)
I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.
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