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Bug Off! How to Protect Kids from Tick Bites This Summer

Summer means more time outside - hiking, camping, and backyard fun! But guess what also comes out when it's warm? Ticks and other bugs! Ticks are tiny bugs that can bite and sometimes spread sickness, like Lyme disease. Don't worry - there are safe ways to keep bugs away and protect your family. Let's learn how!

Summer means more time outside - hiking, camping, and backyard fun! But guess what also comes out when it's warm? Ticks and other bugs! 🐜😬 

Ticks are tiny bugs that can bite and sometimes spread sickness, like Lyme disease. Don't worry - there are safe ways to keep bugs away and protect your family. Let's learn how! 🙌 

 

🕵️‍♀️ What Are Ticks? 

Ticks are super small (some are as tiny as a poppy seed!) and they like to hide in tall grass, bushes, or wooded areas. They can latch onto your skin to bite - usually on legs, arms, armpits, or even your scalp. 

 

🛡️ How to Prevent Tick Bites 

Here's how you can keep bugs and bites away: 

1. Use Bug Spray 🧴 
Use a repellent that has DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. 
👉 Always read the label and ask a grown-up to help apply it - never spray near your eyes or mouth! 

2. Dress for Protection 👕👖 
Wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks when walking in grassy or wooded areas. 
Light-colored clothes help you see ticks more easily. 

3. Stick to the Path 🚶‍♀️ 
Stay in the center of trails and away from tall grass or bushy areas when hiking or walking. 

4. Do a Tick Check! 🕵️ 
After playing outside, check your whole body (and your pets too!). 
Look carefully behind the ears, under arms, around the waist, and in hair. 

5. Shower Soon 🚿 
Taking a shower within 2 hours of coming indoors can help wash off ticks before they bite. 

 

😱 What If You Find a Tick? 

Don't panic! Here's what to do: 

  1. Use tweezers to grab the tick close to the skin and pull straight out - don't twist! 

  1. Clean the area with soap and water. 

  1. Save the tick in a plastic bag in case your doctor wants to see it later. 

  1. Call your doctor if you see a rash, fever, or feel sick in the next few weeks. 

    2.  

    🧴 Is Bug Spray Safe for Kids? 

    Yes - when used correctly! 👍 

    • Kids under 2 months: No bug spray - cover them up instead and use mosquito netting. 

    • Kids 2 months and older: Use a repellent with up to 30% DEET or other kid-safe ingredients. 

    • Spray on clothes or skin, but not on hands, eyes, or mouth. 

    Need help picking the right one? Ask your pediatrician! 

     

    ✅ Stay Safe and Bug-Free! 

    Playing outside is healthy and fun, and with a few easy steps, you can keep the bugs away and enjoy your summer adventures! 🌞🦋🌿 

    For more summer safety tips or if you have questions about tick bites, call us at Cradle Thru College Care or visit www.cradlethrucollege.com. 🩺👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 

     

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