by Neha Vaitha, MD
Pediatrician
Boulder Medical Center
Although we’ve already had some warm days, summer officially arrived with the solstice, and for many families in Boulder County, the July 4 weekend marks the actual start of summer. With school out and more time spent outside, now is the perfect time to review key summer safety tips for kids.
As a pediatrician in Boulder, Colorado, I often see summer-related injuries and illnesses that are preventable with a bit of preparation. From sun protection to water safety, here are simple, practical ways to help keep your children safe and healthy this season.
Sun Protection for Kids in Colorado
Parents often ask me when it’s safe to use sunscreen on their child. I recommend avoiding sunscreen for infants under 6 months and protecting their skin with shade and lightweight, sun-protective clothing. You can apply sunscreen to exposed areas once your child is 6 months old.
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and apply it generously about 15–30 minutes before heading outdoors. Reapply every two hours — more often if your child is swimming or sweating. Let the sunscreen absorb for about 15 minutes before water activities.
Living in sunny Colorado increases UV exposure, especially at higher elevations like Boulder. Maintaining sun safety for kids is essential to prevent painful burns and reduce long-term skin damage.
Water Safety for Children in Boulder County
Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1–4. Even confident swimmers can get into trouble quickly. Always supervise children near water, whether you’re at a pool, lake, or the Boulder Reservoir.
Make sure home pools have secure fencing, and teach children to walk — not run — around slippery surfaces. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends introducing swim lessons as early as age 1 to reduce the risk of drowning. Fortunately, Boulder County swim schools and community pools offer a range of programs to help children build strong, age-appropriate swimming skills.
Use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for non-swimmers or open water. Don’t rely on floaties or inflatable toys as substitutes for supervision or real protection.
Sunburn Treatment and Prevention for Kids
At least half of all kids will experience a sunburn before age 11. Sunburns can be more than uncomfortable — they increase the risk of skin cancer later in life.
If your child does get sunburned, gently cool the skin with a lukewarm bath or a damp cloth. Apply aloe vera or fragrance-free moisturizer, and keep them hydrated. Avoid popping any blisters that form, and seek medical advice for severe pain, fever, or signs of infection.
At Boulder Medical Center, we often see a spike in sunburn cases during summer, especially in active children who spend long hours outdoors without sunscreen or wearing protective clothing.
Stay Safe, Boulder County!
Whether heading to a trail, playground, pool, or barbecue, staying mindful of pediatric summer safety helps ensure your child enjoys all that Boulder County has to offer — without the avoidable trip to the pediatrician’s office.
With simple precautions, your family can make the most of sunny days while staying safe, healthy, and protected.
Neha Vaitha, MD
About Neha Vaitha, MD
Boulder Pediatrician
Dr. Neha Vaitha is a board-certified pediatrician at Boulder Medical Center, caring for children from birth through adolescence. She provides preventive care, treats pediatric conditions, and supports families with behavioral and developmental concerns. With a focus on compassionate, whole-child care, Dr. Vaitha partners with parents to help kids grow healthy and thrive.
- Call for an appointment: (303) 938-4750
- Visit Dr. Vaitha’s bio