# Five Tips to Keep Your Kids Cool This Weekend
Heat waves pose real risks to children. Their bodies regulate temperature less efficiently than adults, making them vulnerable to heat exhaustion and heat stroke during hot weather stretches. The BBC Health team offers practical strategies to protect kids as temperatures climb.
Hydration stands as the first line of defense. Children need constant access to water throughout the day, not just when they ask for it. Many kids don't recognize thirst cues the way adults do, so parents should offer drinks regularly, even before children feel thirsty. Water works best. Sugary drinks and caffeine can actually increase dehydration.
Clothing matters more than many realize. Light-colored, loose-fitting fabrics allow sweat to evaporate and keep skin cooler. Cotton and linen breathe better than synthetics. Parents should dress children in minimal layers when possible, and never leave them in direct sun without protection.
Shade becomes essential infrastructure during heat waves. Trees, umbrellas, and canopies all provide relief. Even brief periods in shade can lower body temperature significantly. Indoors, closing curtains and blinds during the day keeps homes cooler naturally.
Timing of activities requires adjustment during hot spells. Early morning and evening offer safer windows for outdoor play. The hours between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. bring peak heat intensity, making those times better for indoor activities or water play.
Water activities offer dual benefits. Sprinklers, pools, and water tables keep kids cool while providing entertainment. Even a damp washcloth on the back of the neck or wrists helps dissipate heat quickly, since these areas contain major blood vessels close to the skin.
Parents should watch for heat exhaustion signs: excessive sweating, weakness, dizziness, or nausea. These warrant immediate cooling measures and medical attention