Caring for children in hot weather

Babies and young children are more vulnerable to heat-related illness because their bodies cannot easily adapt to changing temperatures.

The younger the child, the faster they may show signs of dehydration or heat stress. Children who are unwell need extra care in hot weather, even with minor illnesses such as a cold or hay fever.

If you are concerned about your child’s health, call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) for advice from a registered nurse or speak with your healthcare provider.

Be aware of the risks

Babies and young children struggle in hot weather because their sweat glands and immune system are still developing, and their weaker blood circulation means they take longer to adjust to temperature changes.

Children are uniquely vulnerable because they:

• don't sweat as effectively as adults, making it harder for them to cool down
• have a larger body surface compared to their size. This means they absorb more heat, but can also lose heat more quickly with further temperature changes
• have a higher metabolism, which means they generate more heat when being active
• lose fluids and salts (electrolytes) faster through sweating, which can lead to becoming dehydrated sooner
• spend more time outdoors and are more active, increasing their exposure to heat
• may not understand what the early signs of heat stress are—like sweating a lot or becoming red in the face—and may not know when to take breaks to cool down
• may not drink enough when they are being physically active for a long time
• need additional supervision.

Stay hydrated and well nourished

You can help avoid heat-related illness by providing babies and children with the hydration and nourishment they need.

Babies

If breastfeeding, feed your baby more often and drink plenty of water yourself.

Babies that are:

• 0–6 months rely on breast milk, so offer breastfeeds more frequently. Water or other drinks are not needed unless recommended by a doctor
• 6–12 months need food and fluids in addition to breast milk, so give small amounts of cooled boiled water after or in between breastmilk feeds
• 12 months and over need solid foods and drinks. You may continue breastfeeding, or give full cream milk and offer cooled boiled water after or in between meals.

Children

Ensure your child has easy access to plain water and encourage them to drink it, even before they become thirsty.

Use the following daily water intake guidance.

• Children 5–8 years: 1 litre per day.
• Children 9–12 years: 1.5 litres per day.
• Teenagers 13+ years: 2 litres per day.

Give children small regular meals and minimise hot food.

• Avoid using ice.
• Avoid drinks high in sugar, salt or caffeine as these can increase dehydration.

Monitor for signs or symptoms