New Delhi: As severe heatwave conditions continue across several parts of India, doctors, parents and teachers are increasingly raising concerns over the growing impact of extreme temperatures on children’s health and learning abilities.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued heatwave warnings for several northern and central states, including Delhi, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Temperatures in some regions are expected to touch or exceed 45 degrees Celsius in the coming days.
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Children More Vulnerable to Extreme Heat
Medical experts say children are physiologically more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses compared to adults.
As per the experts, children’s bodies are less efficient at regulating temperature because they do not sweat as effectively as adults. Increased physical activity during hot weather further raises the risk of dehydration and exhaustion.
Doctors also point to factors such as poor ventilation, obesity, nutritional deficiencies and existing health conditions as additional risks during prolonged heat exposure. According to pediatric specialists, early signs of heat stress include dizziness, fatigue, headache, irritability, nausea and reduced urination. In severe cases, confusion, fainting and high fever may require urgent medical attention.
Heat Affecting Attendance and Concentration
Teachers and parents say rising temperatures are already affecting school attendance and classroom concentration.
Several schools have reduced outdoor activities, canceled assemblies and introduced regular hydration breaks for students. Teachers report that prolonged exposure to heat leaves students fatigued and less attentive during classes.
Parents in several cities have also begun limiting outdoor activities and encouraging children to study during cooler morning hours.
Simple Precautions Becoming Essential
Doctors advise families to avoid outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours and encourage frequent water intake. Lightweight cotton clothing, wet towels, regular baths and better ventilation can also help reduce heat stress.
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Health experts caution against excessive consumption of sugary or extremely cold beverages and recommend oral rehydration solutions during severe heat conditions.
Growing Need for Long-Term Solutions
Experts believe the rising intensity of summers is turning extreme heat into a long-term public health concern for children. They stress the need for better school infrastructure, shaded public spaces, access to clean drinking water and increased urban greenery to reduce heat exposure.
With heatwaves becoming more frequent every year, adapting schools, homes and public spaces for children is increasingly being viewed as an urgent necessity rather than a seasonal adjustment.
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