Beat The HEAT!

5 Ways Parents Can Prepare Their Kids to Beat the Heat During Summer Soccer Camp

Summer soccer camps are a fantastic way for kids to stay active, make new friends, and hone their skills. However, the intense summer heat can pose significant challenges. As a parent, ensuring your child is well-prepared to handle the heat can make all the difference. Here are five essential tips to help your child beat the heat during summer soccer camp.

1. Hydration is Key

Proper hydration is crucial, especially when kids are active in the heat. Encourage your child to start hydrating well before the camp begins. Here are some tips:

• Pre-Camp Hydration: Ensure your child drinks plenty of water in the days leading up to camp. A good rule of thumb is for them to consume at least 8 glasses of water a day.
• During Camp: Pack a large, insulated water bottle filled with cold water. Remind your child to take frequent water breaks, even if they don’t feel thirsty.
• Electrolyte Balance: Consider adding a sports drink or electrolyte tablets to their water to replenish lost minerals and salts from sweating.

• Dress for the Weather

Wearing the right clothing can significantly impact how your child handles the heat. Opt for lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking materials. Here’s what to consider:

• Light-Colored Clothing: Light colors reflect sunlight and keep your child cooler than dark colors.
• Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: Fabrics like polyester or blends designed for sports wick sweat away from the body, helping to keep the skin dry.
• Sun Protection: Equip your child with a wide-brimmed hat or a cap with a neck flap to protect their face and neck from the sun.

• Apply Sunscreen Generously

Sunburn can quickly ruin your child’s soccer camp experience and pose serious health risks. Proper application of sunscreen is vital:

• Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: Choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
• Regular Reapplication: Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before camp starts and reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.
• Don’t Forget the Lips and Ears: Use a lip balm with SPF and make sure to cover easily forgotten spots like the ears.

• Plan for Rest and Shade

Overexertion in the heat can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Ensuring your child gets adequate rest is essential:

• Scheduled Breaks: Make sure the camp has a schedule that includes regular breaks in the shade.
• Cool Down Periods: Encourage your child to take it easy during breaks, using the time to rest and cool down.
• Shade Accessories: Pack a small, portable umbrella or tent to create additional shaded areas if necessary.

• Healthy Snacks and Meals

Nutrition plays a vital role in how well your child handles the heat. Fueling their body with the right foods can help maintain energy levels and prevent heat-related issues:

• Hydrating Foods: Include water-rich fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges in their snacks.
• Balanced Meals: Ensure your child eats a balanced meal before camp, incorporating carbohydrates for energy, proteins for muscle repair, and fats for sustained energy.
• Avoid Sugary Snacks: High sugar snacks can cause a rapid spike and crash in energy levels, which can be detrimental in the heat.

Final Thoughts

By taking these proactive steps, you can help ensure your child has a fun, safe, and successful experience at their summer soccer camp. Remember, preparation is key to beating the heat and making the most of their time on the field. Stay cool and play on!

Philadelphia Union Youth offers multiple Summer Training opportunities for youth soccer players. Our most accessible programming comes in the form of Camps. We have over 50 individual camps that cater to a range of skill levels from the Beginner to The Elite. Explore our camps HERE.

For the serious soccer athlete, we have Small Group and 1-on-1 Training. Register HERE for specialized coaching in our Player Development Programs (PDP).

Interested in playing at a high level? We have TRYOUTS this summer for our highly competitive teams in the Player Pathway Program (PPP). Register for your ID Session HERE.