The Benefits of Outdoor Play

Summer is here and the sun is shining! This is a great time to get out and enjoy the outdoors.  A recent study from our journal Pediatrics confirms the value in playing outside, not only in terms of physical health, but in terms of mental health and behavior.  This should not be surprising to any of us. And remember that being exposed to dirt, bugs, trees, etc actually can help, not hurt our immune systems.  An article published several years ago by a Chicago based microbiologist confirms this (the reprint is available in my office). So get outside and get dirty!!!  And then go inside and clean up for dinner!

Don’t Forget the Sunscreen!

While outside, please wear sunscreen. Information continues to accumulate as to the effectiveness of sunscreens to prevent sunburn and, hence, future development of melanoma. However there is also evidence that many current sunscreens use chemicals that may absorb at levels that exceed certain federal guidelines. These chemicals include avobenzone, oxybenzone and others. So far there is no evidence that this is harmful, but since there are excellent alternatives, I believe that they should be used. The alternatives are what are known as “Mineral-Based Sunscreens” and sit on the top of the skin and simply block the suns rays. The two available are Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. I recommend a combination of the two, which are available in several brands such as Elta MD, Australian Gold, Blue Lizard, and Cetaphil. Of course there are many others. Always use an SPF of 30 or greater and reapply after vigorous swimming or toweling off.

Stay Hydrated!

During the heat of the summer, it is very important to stay hydrated. Water remains the best way to hydrate properly, although sports drinks provide an acceptable alternative. Stay cool!

Teens and Summer Sleep Habits

One of the most frequent complaints or concerns I get from parents of teens is about poor sleeping habits. Many times, these habits start in the summer when your teenage is allowed to sleep in on most every day. This sets up a disorder know as Delayed Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder in which the normal rhythm of sleeping is disturbed by sleeping late, then not falling asleep till very late (because they are not tired), then sleeping late the next day to get enough sleep, and the cycle continues. Then, school starts in the Fall and the bad sleep habits have continued leaving a tired, exhausted teenager with school and all the homework pressures, activities etc to contend with. I propose a discussion with your teenager about a reasonable wake time in the morning (say 8-9 AM) and a reasonable sleep time at night (say 11-12 pm). No screen time at night, lights out, cell phones off. For morning, awaken at the same time, turn on the lights and get the day going. This will go a long way to getting them back in the swing of things when school starts back up in the Fall.