Keeping Your Kids Healthy on Holiday

10 Tips for Parents During the School Summer Holidays

The school summer holidays are the perfect time for making memories, whether you’re jetting off abroad or enjoying family holidays closer to home. But a break from the classroom doesn’t mean a break from keeping your children safe and healthy.

Here’s our round-up of essential tips for keeping kids safe and well while you’re away, so that you can enjoy the holiday without any worries.

1. Clean Hands, Happy Holidays

Germs don’t take holidays. Regular hand washing (especially before meals) is your best defence. Pack a travel-sized hand sanitiser for when you’re on the move, and encourage your children to wash their hands thoroughly after using the toilet, before eating, and after playing outside or on public transport.

2. Watch What They Eat

Trying new foods is part of the adventure, but keep an eye on hygiene. Steer clear of food that’s been sitting out for hours, especially in hot weather. Teach older children to be cautious too, sometimes street snacks can bring the holiday fun to a halt.

3. Sun Safety Matters

A little sun goes a long way. To help protect against sunburn and reduce the long-term risk of skin cancer, apply high-factor sunscreen regularly, especially after swimming. Don’t forget hats and sunglasses, and try to stick to shady spots during peak hours (usually between 11am and 3pm).

4. Hydration Is Key

In warm climates, children can get dehydrated quickly. Remind them to drink plenty of fluids, even before they feel thirsty. Pack reusable water bottles and keep them topped up. Staying hydrated helps keep energy levels steady and supports the immune system.

5. Pack An Essential Aid Kit

It’s wise to be ready for minor mishaps. Include plasters, antiseptic wipes, antihistamines, insect repellent, and anything your child regularly takes. If illness does happen, you’ll be prepared. A small thermometer and oral rehydration salts can also come in handy.

6. Keep a Diary If They Get Sick

If your child does become ill, jot down symptoms, temperatures, and what they’ve eaten. This can be incredibly helpful if you need to seek medical advice abroad or once you’re back home.

7. Face Masks In Busy Spaces

Especially in airports or on packed public transport, wearing a mask can help reduce the risk of spreading or catching germs. Not always necessary, but good to have on hand if you’re in crowded indoor areas.

8. Footwear That’s Fit For Fun

Bare feet may scream ‘holiday’, but beaches and pools can hide sharp objects, insects or hot surfaces. Sensible shoes like crocs or rubber sandals can protect little feet from cuts, burns, or slips around the pool.

9. Airflow In Hotel Rooms

A stuffy room can make sleep difficult and allow germs to linger. If safe to do so, crack open a window to improve airflow, or make use of aircon to keep things fresh. Just avoid blasting cold air directly onto sleeping children.

10. Keep Routines Where You Can

Late nights and irregular meals can throw children off balance, especially younger ones. While it’s fine to relax the rules a bit, sticking to familiar meal times and bedtime routines (as much as possible) helps keep their energy up and their immune system ticking along. Even on holiday, a bit of structure can make a big difference to how they feel.

Wherever you’re heading this summer, a little preparation goes a long way. Keeping kids healthy on holiday doesn’t have to mean worrying constantly, just a few sensible steps can give your family the freedom to enjoy the break, stress-free. 

Paediatric Clinic at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital

At St John & Elizabeth’s Hospital, we are deeply committed to providing the highest quality healthcare for children of all ages from birth onwards! Our paediatric team provide consultation, advice and treatment designed to support the health and well-being of all our patients and their families, whatever their age.

Call us on 020 7078 3831 or visit our paediatric clinic webpage.