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During the warmer months, many parents are eager to spend time outside with their kids. Walks in the park, games in the backyard and barbeques with friends are all welcome activities after months spent indoors due to chilly winter weather. While warm sunshine and fresh air are good for children and adults, bug bites and stings are not. Products such as bug repellent and insect netting for strollers are essential for spring, summer and even fall. When the weather is warm and the insects are swarming, these products can help your family enjoy favorite activities without stings and bites.

When the sun is shining outside, most parents encourage outdoor play. But before taking children on walks or sending them to the backyard, it is important to consider prevention for insect stings. Bugs carry certain diseases such as Malaria and the West Nile Virus, and babies and children are more affected than adults by stings. They have more sensitive skin, and some children may have allergic reactions to stings. All stings and bites cause discomfort, including minor swelling, redness, pain, and itching. While there are creams and medications to help ease the pain, taking precautions is always recommended. Whenever possible, have children wear long pants and dark colors. Insects are attracted to light colors, such as yellow and orange. However, long pants aren’t always possible and can get very uncomfortable when the weather is excessively warm.

For families that spend much of their time on the go, finding the right stroller is essential. Many parents spend time researching the right stroller for their children, reading baby stroller reviews and ratings. Several strollers, such as the high quality Britax B Ready, have netting that can be purchased to fit snugly over the stroller. Another option is a weather shield, such as the one sold by BOB. Their sun shield is compatible with all BOB Revolution strollers, and it shields young children from the sun’s harmful UV rays and flying insects. When taking toddlers and babies to parks or on walks, these nettings and shields are helpful when the baby is trying to nap or rest. By blocking sunlight and providing a barrier between the child and flying insects, the child can ride in the stroller undisturbed. 

Many warm weather family outings, such as barbecues, are in the evening when parents return from work.  At dusk insects are abundant. While insect repellent is always a good idea for older children and adults, many contain unhealthy chemicals. If you must use repellent on young children it is always advised to spray on the clothes, not directly on skin. For babies repellent should be avoided entirely. This is another reason to invest in quality insect netting for toddlers and babies who are riding in a stroller.