Fourth of July Tips

With Fourth of July this weekend, many families will be spending time together and enjoying Independence Day festivities. Check out these tips to make sure each one of your activities is a success.





Watching Fireworks


Prepare Both the Kids and the Escape Route
Fireworks’ loud noise can sometimes startle children, so the more they understand in advance what will happen, the better the experience will be. If you’re not sure how they will react, try to sit and park in a location that will be easy to leave if necessary.

Bring Things to Do
Getting a good seat often requires showing up early, so make sure to bring activities for the kids to do while they wait.


Safety First
Fireworks can be dangerous so make sure to keep the kiddos close to you at all times. If you give kids sparklers, make sure they keep them outside and away from the face, clothing and hair. And don’t allow kids to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event. Some may still be ignited and can explode at any time.


Dress Warm
Although the summer sun may be warm during the day, temperatures can drop significantly at night. Be sure to dress in layers or bring jackets.


Attending a Parade


Get There Early
Standing behind a crowd for a parade is the worst. If you’re nervous to bring the kids too far in advance, have one parent stake out the good spot and arrive later with the kids.


Pack the Essentials:

• Sunscreen, hats and sunglasses
• Bags to hold candy
• Cold drinks
• Baby wipes (to clean up sugary messes)
• Spray bottles filled with water for those hot days

Going to the Beach


Keep the Kids Protected
Sun protection is one of the most important things to keep in mind when going to the beach. Make sure to use high-SPF sunscreen and keep younger children fully protective clothing, sunglasses, hats and under an umbrella. Hats and sunglasses are important for older kids too. The Environmental Working Group has a great guide for sunscreens, here.


Bring plenty of drinks, snacks and activities
Playing in the sun can be tiring, so kids will need to stay hydrated and keep food in their bellies. Packing these items can save money. Also bring buckets, shovels, boogie boards and any other beach toys to keep them busy.


Check-In Often
For older kids who may want to venture off, make sure to have them check in every half hour. Another good tip is to plant an easy recognizable umbrella to help the kids find your spot.


Lifeguards Shouldn’t Replace Mom or Dad
Kids need to be supervised the entire time. If you’re worried you’ll need help watching them, Sittercity can help you find a babysitter to help out and ensure everyone is safe.




[Image courtesy of zAppledot on Flickr]