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A few things ring a bell when you think of your childhood. Whether you were running to Cinderella’s Castle at Magic Kingdom, playing on the monkey bars in the park, or attending birthday parties weekly, these are the moments one will cherish forever. From the parent’s perspective, let’s just say these moments weren’t as magical. There was tons of planning, cleaning, and running around in hopes of making us youngins happy.

To relieve a tad bit of stress from parents, Haute Beauty sat down with Haute MD expert Dr. Brianna Varas to talk through a germ-free game plan for parents taking their children to kid-friendly events. Here is what she had to say:

Brianna Varas | Pediatrician | Miami/Fort Lauderdale

The most important thing you can do as a parent in advance of taking your children to a kid-friendly event where there will be large groups of people is making sure that your children’s vaccinations are up-to-date. Every child should receive the flu vaccine this season and if they fall within the age range of vaccination for COVID-19, they should receive their two vaccines. Ideally, they should receive their second vaccination two weeks prior to departure to be protected. 

Prior to travel, it is important to optimize their nutrition. Make sure they drink plenty of water and have a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables. There are many supplements to support immunity such as a kid’s Multivitamin, Vitamin C, Elderberry among others. 

When you arrive at the kid-friendly event or theme park, your children should wear masks and socially distances themselves whenever possible. Throughout the event, be sure to wash their hands frequently and apply antibacterial gel (at least 70% ethanol) as they will be touching frequently-touched surfaces. Always apply the antibacterial or wash their hands before eating. 

In regards to attire. Make sure that your child is wearing comfortable clothing that is weather appropriate as well as sneakers that provide adequate support for their feet. 

Note: If they have a fever 48 to 72 hours before travel they are considered to be contagious and should not attend events where there are multiple other children present. 

For more information, visit Dr. Varas’s website or Instagram!