Protecting Kids from Mosquitoes & Ticks

Spring brings longer days, warmer weather, and plenty of time for kids to run, play, and explore outdoors. But along with all that fresh air come a few unwelcome guests, mosquitoes and ticks. With a little preparation, families can help prevent bites and keep outdoor fun worry-free.

Here are a few simple ways to stay protected this season:

1. Choose the right insect repellent: When heading outside, apply an insect repellent to any exposed skin. For infants under 2 months, avoid repellents altogether and rely on protective clothing and netting instead. For older children, look for kid-friendly formulas with lower concentrations of active ingredients. Lotion-based repellents can also be easier to apply evenly. Try to avoid combination sunscreen-and-repellent products, since sunscreen often needs to be reapplied more frequently than insect protection.
2. Make post-play clean-up part of the routine: After a day outdoors, have kids shower as soon as possible. This helps wash away any lingering insects and makes it easier to spot bites or ticks early. It’s also a good idea to toss clothes straight into the laundry after outdoor play, especially if kids have been in grassy or wooded areas.
3. Time outdoor activities wisely: Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk, so whenever possible, plan outdoor play for mid-morning or early afternoon. If evening activities are unavoidable, extra layers of clothing and repellent can help reduce exposure.
4. Do a quick daily check: A simple head-to-toe check can go a long way. Look for new bites, areas of redness, or ticks—especially around the scalp, behind the ears, under arms, and behind knees. If you notice anything unusual, clean the area and monitor for worsening symptoms.

Most bites are mild and heal on their own, but reactions can sometimes become more serious, especially if there is significant swelling, fever, or signs of infection.

If you ever have concerns about a bite, sting, or your child’s symptoms, Little Spurs Pediatric Urgent Care is here to help, open seven days a week with convenient online check-in to help you skip the wait and get care quickly when you need it most.