Growing Up Green, Growing Up Green Interstate a project of University of MD School of Nursing, Community & Public Health Environmental Initiative, Upper Marlboro, MD (2026)

Growing Up Green is a resource on environmental and children's health. We are a project of the University of Maryland School of Nursing, Community and Public Health Environmental Initiative (CPHEI).

07/06/2026

Not much ruins outside time faster than a sting or bug bites. To protect your child and yourself this summer:

Use scent-free soap and laundry products to attract fewer bugs

Avoid wearing bright-colored clothing, as it may attract insects

Wear longer sleeves to cover your arms and legs, and wear closed-toed shoes to protect your feet.

Choose a bug repellent approved by the Environmental Protection Agency and that is approved for your child's age (https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/insect-stings-sheet.html)

Avoid aerosol sprays when possible. Lotions, sticks, and pump sprays are best.

Apply bug repellent outside to avoid breathing it in. Don't apply it under clothing – just exposed skin and on top of clothing is enough

Stay away from areas with standing water, where mosquitos like to be

For more information:

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/Insect-Repellents.aspx

https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/insect-stings-sheet.html

https://www.childrens.com/health-wellness/treating-bug-bites-and-stings-in-children

07/02/2026

Did you know that our bodies are made of 60-70% water? That’s one of the reasons that it is important to stay hydrated – especially in these hot summer days! According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, water, along with milk, are the healthiest choice for children. Water helps keep joints, bones and teeth healthy, and can help maintain a healthy weight. Water also helps to balance body temperature and improves mood, memory, and attention. It’s best to stay away from sugary drinks, and to limit juices – even 100% juice. Babies under 6 months of age usually don’t need anything besides breastmilk or formula, and children between 6 and 12 months need only a few sips of water. Older children will need more.
For more information visit: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/nutrition/Pages/Choose-Water-for-Healthy-Hydration.aspx or https://masnaped.org/healthy-families/the-importance-of-hydration-in-children/

06/22/2026

Time outside is great for our physical and mental health! It helps us use our muscles, reduces stress, and increases Vitamin D.

Top tips for reducing the chance of sunburn (and skin cancer later in life):

🔅Think about the UV index - particularly between 10am and 4pm, when the UV rays are strongest.

🔅Wear sunscreen – SPF 15-50 and broad spectrum is best

🔅Stay in the shade, out of direct sunlight, when possible. Even when wearing sunscreen.

🔅Don't forget to protect your eyes and lips! Wear sunglasses with UV protection and lip balm with SPF 15 – 30

🔅Clothing should be cool and comfortable. Ideally, wear long sleeves with a tighter weave or clothes with a UV protection rating. And don't forget a hat!

🍼Have a baby 6 months or younger? Keeping them out of direct sunlight and wearing protective clothing is best. Sunscreen is not recommended for this age, however sunburn is worse – use a small amount of sunscreen if there is no other option.

For more info:
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/Sun-Safety.aspx
https://www.cdc.gov/skin-cancer/sun-safety/index.html

06/15/2026

Trouble choosing a sunscreen? You're not alone!

Here's what to look for:

Broad Spectrum (protects against UVB and UVA rays)

15 - 50 SPF (Sun Protection Factor)

Cream / lotion of stick application preferred

Active ingredient: zinc oxide or titanium dioxide

Don't forget to protect your lips! Choose a lip balm with SPF

Avoid when possible: aerosolized sprays and sprays with "oxybenzone" as an ingredient

Remember: The goal is to avoid sunburn! It is always best to wear any sunscreen available than none at all

Need more info?

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/Sun-Safety.aspx

https://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/about-the-sunscreens/

05/25/2026

Now that it's warming up, we all want to be outside! Before you or your child head out for ride on the bike or scooter, it may be time to check your helmets

Remember: all children under 16 must wear a helmet when on a bicycle (or, in a bike seat or bike trailer)

For a good fit, check:

🚲Is it comfortable but snug? (It shouldn't move side-to-side or up-and-down)

🚲Is it sitting level on your head, with the bottom edge only one to two finger widths above your eyebrows?

🚲Can you only fit one finger between the chin strap and your chin?

If the answer is no, readjust and check again!

Consider replacing if:

The helmet was not CPSC approved
The helmet is older than 5-10 years
Cracks in the helmet's shell or liner
Worn-down straps
Any parts missing or damaged

For more info:

https://www.cpsc.gov/safety-education/safety-guides/sports-fitness-and-recreation-bicycles/which-helmet-which-activity

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/bicycle-helmet-safety

05/11/2026

Did you know: Water safety isn't just for summertime at pools and beaches!

Water safety should be done near any source of water, like splash pads, wading pools, water tables, buckets, and bathtubs.

Tips for keeping kids safe near the water:

1. Always have a "water watcher" who is paying attention and within arm's reach of the child

* "Water watchers" should be 18 or older, and must not be distracted or under the influence of any alcohol or drugs.

2. When you're finished with the water, empty standing sources of water when possible. If not, make sure the water source is locked or blocked off.

3. Consider taking a First Aid / CPR class.

4. Consider swim lessons for your child (or yourself!)

For more info:
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/5-Water-Safety-Tips-for-Kids-of-all-Ages.aspx

https://www.cdc.gov/drowning/prevention/index.html

Address

Growing Up Green Interstate A Project Of University Of MD School Of Nursing, Community & Public Health Environmental Initiative
Upper Marlboro, MD

Telephone

+14107067884

Website

https://www.nursing.umaryland.edu/about/partnerships-practice/cphei/, https://sites.google.com/view/eco-healthyhomesforc

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