DHAKA — In severe heat, children are at considerably greater risk than adults. Heat waves can quickly dehydrate their small bodies, and they may not always express thirst clearly. If a child is old enough to understand, it helps to explain what to eat and what to avoid during hot weather. Be attentive to everyday details such as clothing and play. Watch out for small, unintended mistakes in daily routines.
Dr. Tasnuva Khan, a pediatric consultant at the Sreenagar Upazila Health Complex in Munshiganj, said: “Meeting a child’s water needs in the heat does not mean forcing him or her to drink repeatedly. Try to understand what the body needs. When the child urinates, watch the color and amount. If the child is urinating enough and the urine is a pale, straw-like yellow, then hydration is adequate.”
Common mistakes in child care during this season, according to this doctor
Forcing water
Children can begin drinking water after six months of age. Until about age 2, breast milk meets much of the water need. Water, other fluids and fruit also provide hydration. Encourage children to drink water or other fluids throughout the day. Fruit juices or smoothies are fine, but avoid very sugary drinks. Drink water with the child. Make sure there is adequate water available at school. But unless there are signs of dehydration, do not force a child to drink. Signs of dehydration can include unusual irritability or fussiness, lethargy, reduced urine output, dark yellow or orange urine, a dry mouth or tongue and sunken eyes.
Eating anything and everything
Hot weather spreads many serious illnesses through food and water. Drinks and foods prepared in unsanitary conditions can carry germs. Explain to the child to avoid these foods, even when alone on the way to school. Prepare favorite dishes and drinks at home to satisfy cravings. Do not be overly strict about ice cream unless the child is highly allergic to cold. Occasional ice cream or a lightly chilled drink is fine, as long as it is safely prepared. Also explain that it is not advisable to eat or drink something cold immediately after coming inside from harsh sunlight. The child should wait a bit before having a chilled drink or food.
Clothing and hygiene mistakes
• Sleeveless clothes are a mistake when going outside, because sun and dust cause more harm. Thin cotton long-sleeved shirts and pants will keep the child protected.
• Tight clothing is also a mistake.
• Dark colors should be avoided because they trap heat.
• Anyone preparing or serving food who is careless about hand washing makes a serious mistake.
• Milk and other foods should not be left out for long. They spoil in the heat. All foods must be stored at the proper temperature.
Mistakes during play
• Do not let children play outside or on the rooftop during the hottest part of the day. In very hot weather, keep them indoors. Make sure they avoid this mistake even when at school at midday.
• If a child goes to a park, do not let them climb on metal play equipment without first checking. Test the temperature with the back of the hand. Metal equipment heated by the midday sun can stay hot. Let the child use it only if the temperature is tolerable.
• Never leave a child alone near water. Make sure children do not put their hands into bushes.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report