exposed. A ‘bucket’ hat or wide-brimmed hat can be worn to cover children’s head, face and neck.” If in doubt, don’t go out in the ocean. “If the water is rough or there is a heavy shore break, avoid the water,” summarizes Dr. Diep. “Taking your child to a beach with lifeguards is always a good idea.” For more information on Hawaii ocean safety, go to oceansafety.hawaii.gov. For a medical emergency, always see a trusted healthcare professional. “Drowning incidents require help from a health care professional,” says Dr. Diep. “If a parent worries that their child just swallowed some water or got water in their ears, it’s not an emergency and doesn’t necessarily require them to see their doctor right away.” If you would like to speak more with Dr. Diep, call 808-945-9955 or email pediatrics@doctordiep.com. Swimming lessons and lifejackets are recommended to strengthen children’s water survival skills. “By age four, most children are mature and developmentally ready enough to take swim lessons, but this varies from child to child,” explains Dr. Diep. “Many infants are also doing ISR (infant swimming resource) classes, which are more about survival techniques.” “I also definitely recommend lifejackets, (and) I feel that it’s always a good idea for parents and adults to learn CPR,” adds Dr. Diep. Sun protection measures should be taken to protect the body’s largest organ in the Hawaii heat. “Mineral sunscreen (should be used) from ages six months and above. It should be SPF30 and above,” says Dr. Diep. “Cover all parts of children’s body even if it’s not directly 130 HAWAII PARENT September/October 2024 When in doubt, don’t go out – especially with children. “By age four, most children are mature and developmentally ready enough to take swim lessons.”
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