DAN’S PAPERS
danshamptons.com
March 29, 2013 Page 45
SUMMER CAMPS
CUSTER INSTITUTE
Spend Saturday evening with East End stars.
CAMP ROUNDUPS
Choosing the best camp for your child
By marianna scandole
S
afety is at the forefront of every parent’s mind as they prepare to send their little chickadees to summer camp. Unfortunately, accidents can happen, but talking to your child about basic first aid, injury prevention tips and what to do in emergency situations will go a long way to ensure that he or she has the best experience possible. Dr. Donna Prill is a board certified family physician currently working for Meeting House Lane Medical Practice as the Medical Director of the Hampton Bays office and a clinical preceptor for the Southampton Hospital Family Practice residency program. She notes that some of the most common camp related injuries are lacerations, sunburns, insect bites, swimmer’s ear and sprains. As a doctor and mother of two teenagers, Prill was excited to share her professional and personal experience on how to stay safe and have fun this summer. When spending time outdoors, sunscreen is key. “Wearing sunscreen regularly is one of the most important things we can do to protect our children from the pain of sunburns as well as future skin cancers,” warns Prill. “I recommend SPF 30–60 that contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to block UVA and UVB rays, and avoids PABA, alcohol and scent for sensitive skin. Using enough sunscreen and maximizing coverage are also important, as well as reapplying every hour or two that the
child is outside.” Prill notes that, while a spray is easier to apply, it needs to be rubbed in for maximum efficiency. Don’t forget the eyes. According to mayoclinic.com, sunglasses that block 99% to 100% of both UVA and UVB rays are best. Polycarbonate lenses are a great option because they protect eyes from impact injury as well as from UV rays. Wearing the proper clothing is also important to summer safety. For example, brimmed hats and UV blocking clothing help to guard against the sun. And, a good way to try to prevent lacerations is to wear swim shoes at the beach. For kids who will be spending a day hiking or exploring wooded areas, avoid insect bites and cuts by wearing sneakers or hiking boots, tall socks, pants and long sleeves. Insect repellent also helps a great deal, especially for skin not covered by clothing. Drinking 1–2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and eating lots of garlic can also helps ward off insects. If possible, ask your child’s counselor to review the trail before a hike. If your child gets lost on a hike, make sure they know to always stay put, perhaps going close to a tree for security, and use a whistle to call for help. If needed, they can cover themselves or stuff their clothing with leaves for warmth. For the following camp-related ailments, let your child know that he/she should always check in with a camp counselor. But knowing basic first aid can help your child feel more comfortable if they should
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Safety Tips for Summer Camp
Have a fun and safe summer!
run into a scary situation. To treat poison ivy/sumac, wash skin and clothing in soap and water, along with shoes, belts, etc. Use Cortaid to reduce itching. For bee stings, be sure to remove the stinger first, and then apply a cold compresses. Use Benadryl or Zyrtec for the allergic component and Advil for pain. Sprains are also very common at camp. According to Dr. Prill, to treat a sprain you should “rest, ice, elevate and use compression. Take Advil for pain and swelling. See a doctor if there is no improvement in 1–2 days.” Make sure you and your child pack adequately before they go off to camp. If everyone is prepared, they will have a blast, and you will have peace of mind.
Leagues
• Basketball 5th – 8th Grade • Baseball Ages 8-11 • Soccer Ages 7-11
Summer Camps A Safe Place To Play, Dream, Grow & Learn 1370A Majors Path PO Box 1284 Southampton, NY 11969 (631) 287-1511
Visit SYS at www.sysinc.org You will find more details on these programs and all the adult programs SYS has to offer, including Water Aerobics, Yoga, Zumba, Spin, Boot Camp, etc.
• Science & Math Discovery Camp Grades 3rd-5th • Pyramid Squash Camp Ages 5-17 • Future Stars Multi – Sport Camp Ages 2-1/2 -14 • Design Diva Fashion Camp Grades 2nd – 5th • SYS Multi-Sport Camp • Dribbl by the Beach Basketball Camp • Karate Camp Ages 5-12
Pool
•Swim Lessons Group, Semi and Private. Ages 3 and up • Super Karate Saturdays Ages 4-12
art • drama • fitness • local history • music nature • science • swimming • yoga ...and more!
Ages season hours
18 mos. - 6 yrs. July 3 - aug 29, 2013 mon. - fri., 7:30am - 5:30pm, half or full day
easthamptondaycare.org
Explosion Speed & Power
EARLY ENROLLmENT DiscOuNT
• Pre-Season Training for H.S. & M.S. Athletes
AvAiLAbLE if ENROLLED bY ApRiL 12! 2 gingerbread lane extension, east hampton (631) 324-5560 info@easthamptondaycare.org 24606
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summER fuN cAmp
for full program details and to register, visit:
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ENROLL TODAY!
Karate
$99 for Students 14 and UP!
Sandpipers
23680