With temperatures soaring across India and warnings from the India Meteorological Department, children heading to school during a heatwave need extra care. Young kids are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses like Heatstroke due to lower immunity and higher activity levels.

Here’s what parents should do—and avoid to keep their children safe.

Why Children Are at Higher Risk

During extreme heat:

• Kids sweat more and lose fluids quickly
• Dehydration can happen faster
• Symptoms like vomiting, headache, fatigue, and nausea may appear

If ignored, these can lead to serious health issues.

Common Mistakes Parents Should Avoid

1. Sending Kids Without Proper Hydration

Never send your child to school on an empty stomach or without water. This increases the risk of overheating.

2. Ignoring Regular Water Intake

Children often forget to drink water. Teach them to sip water frequently, not just when thirsty.

3. Giving Only Plain Water

During heatwaves, the body also loses salts and minerals. Relying only on water isn’t enough.

4. Dressing Kids in Dark or Tight Clothes

Dark-colored or tight clothes trap heat and make kids uncomfortable.

5. Letting Kids Stay in Direct Sun Too Long

Exposure between 12 PM and 4 PM is especially dangerous and should be avoided.

6. Allowing Junk and Heavy Food

Oily, fried, or heavy meals can worsen dehydration and digestion issues in extreme heat.

What Parents Should Do Instead

• Ensure your child drinks water before leaving and during school hours
• Pack fluids like:
  • ORS
  • Lemon water
  • Buttermilk
• Dress them in:
  • Light-colored, loose cotton clothes
• Make them carry:
  • A water bottle
  • A cap, umbrella, or scarf
• Pack a cooling lunch with foods like:
  • Cucumber
  • Watermelon
  • Yogurt
  • Mint-based items