How to Keep Kids Safe from Mosquitoes

When the summer arrives, dealing with the prospect of being bitten by mosquitoes can put a damper on spending time with family and friends outdoors. Keeping your kids safe from mosquitoes is possible with a bit of direction and by following a few tips and tricks that will ensure the mosquitoes are not disrupting any outdoor activities you have planned for the summer months. Mosquitoes are pesky insects that can cause rashes and bumps that are itchy and uncomfortable. However, with the right preparation, it is possible to enjoy your time outdoors worry-free.

Inform Your Kids

Before you find insect repellent that is right for you and your kids, inform your kids about mosquitoes and how they can be proactive in order to prevent irritation or bites. Educating your children on summer safety and the importance of wearing sunblock and insect repellent will help them to develop positive habits that can be used into adulthood.

Choose the Right Insect Repellent

Choose an insect repellent that is ideal for your children, depending on their age and their level of outdoor activity. There are insect repellents specifically-designed for babies, toddlers and children of all ages. You can also find insect repellent that is waterproof, ideal if you plan to spend time in water or if you have a pool in your household that is ready to be used.

Find an insect repellent that can be used for hours at a time or that offers protection for 12 or 24 hours. Be sure to read all labels of the insect repellent you choose to ensure it is the ideal type for your child’s age and the type of activity he or she plans to participate in throughout the summer. Having multiple insect repellent options is also recommended, as not all repellents work the same for different individuals.

Wearing Loose-Fitting Clothing

Inform your children of the benefits of wearing loose-fitting clothing, especially when they are not in a swimsuits but still plan to spend time outdoors. Wearing long-sleeved shirts is highly recommended in addition to wearing darker colors, as bright colors tend to attract insects including mosquitoes, increasing the chance of being bitten.

Avoid Being Outside at Dusk

Have your children inside before dusk to reduce the amount of mosquitoes they encounter each day. Mosquitoes tend to come out during dusk, which will cause them to seek out hosts to bite. If you plan to spend the evening or night outdoors when camping, swimming or simply enjoying the weather, use tiki torches and candles that detract mosquitoes and other insects. The more citronella candles and tiki torches you use, the less likely mosquitoes are to interrupt you and your family while you are outdoors.

Scented Fragrances

Have your children avoid wearing scented fragrances, including cologne, perfume and even body lotions. The more scents you wear outdoors, the more insects will instinctively be attracted to your child, causing them to land and most often, bite or sting.

Get Rid of Standing Water

Most bugs, including mosquitoes, are attracted to water around homes. To avoid mosquitoes from interrupting your summer fun, be sure to rid any area on your property of standing water. Flower pots, buckets, planters and even birdbaths should all be removed during the summertime when mosquitoes are most prevalent.

Install Screens in Windows and Doors

Another way to minimize the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes, even indoors, is to ensure all of your doors and windows have screens installed throughout. If you have a sliding door, it is essential to keep it closed whenever it is not being used to keep insects, including mosquitoes, from entering the home.

Making a few small changes in your backyard this summer is a great way to get rid of mosquitoes and ensure you and your family have a great time outdoors this year. The more actively involved you are with protecting your kids from mosquitoes, the easier it is to bask in the sun, play outdoor games and enjoy swimming regardless of the time of year!