06/04/2026
Tolbert Talks Podcast
Season 2, Episode 1
Sun, Safety, and Smart Choices for Summer
Tolbert Talks Podcast – Summer Safety Episode
Mr. Marycz:
Welcome back to the Tolbert Talks Podcast! I’m your host, Mr. Marycz, and we are officially enjoying the days of summer break. While we’re incredibly excited for the sunshine, the freedom, and the time off, we also want to make sure our Warriors stay safe, healthy, and happy over the next few months.
Joining me today to talk about all things summer safety is our wonderful school counselor, Ms. Hayley Pollard. Welcome!
Ms. Pollard:
Thanks, Mr. Marycz! I’m so happy to be here. Summer is the perfect time for fun and relaxation, but it’s also a time when routines change, and we have to be a little extra mindful of how we take care of ourselves and each other.
Mr. Marycz:
Absolutely! Let’s dive right in with something on everyone’s summer bucket list: hitting the pool, right?
Ms. Pollard:
Oh yes—pool days are the best! But being around water requires our full attention. For parents, the number one rule is active supervision—keeping your eyes on the water at all times and avoiding distractions like phones or conversations.
For students, remember the golden rule: never swim alone. Always make sure a trusted adult is nearby watching you. Walk on the pool deck so you don’t slip, and always ask for permission before getting in the water so an adult knows where you are.
Mr. Marycz:
Never swim alone—that’s a rule you’re never too old for.
Ms. Pollard:
Exactly—never!
Mr. Marycz:
Now, speaking of being outside—Georgia summers get hot. We all know that. Let’s talk about staying cool and hydrated.
Ms. Pollard:
The heat here is no joke! When you’re playing outside, you’re sweating a lot, which means you’re losing water. If you wait until you feel thirsty, you’re already starting to get dehydrated.
So we need to stay ahead of it. Parents, a great rule of thumb is to encourage kids to take a water break about every 20 minutes. Also, watch for signs of heat exhaustion like heavy sweating, dizziness, or extreme tiredness. If you notice those signs, it’s time to head indoors right away.
Mr. Marycz:
That’s a great reminder—I definitely need to drink more water myself!
Now, that leads perfectly into another important topic: rest. Should summer be go, go, go all the time?
Ms. Pollard:
Not at all! Our bodies and brains need downtime, too. It’s not only okay—it’s highly recommended to build rest into your day. Whether it’s reading in the shade, doing a puzzle, or taking a quiet break inside where it’s cool, rest helps us recharge so we can enjoy the fun moments even more.
Mr. Marycz:
That’s so important.
Now let’s pivot to something many parents think about during the summer: supervision and safety. When is a child old enough to stay home alone?
Ms. Pollard:
This is a big one, especially for our older elementary families. In Georgia, there are guidelines to help keep everyone safe.
Children under the age of 8 should never be left home alone—they always need a trusted adult, older sibling, or babysitter.
For ages 9 to 12, there’s a bit of flexibility. Children can be left alone for short periods—typically 30 minutes to two hours—but they shouldn’t be responsible for younger siblings. It really depends on the child’s maturity level.
Beyond that, parents should consider a few key questions: Does your child know what to do in an emergency? Do they know how to reach you or another trusted adult if needed? And it’s always best to practice different scenarios together before leaving any child at home alone for any amount of time.
Mr. Marycz:
Right—what incredible, helpful information for our families trying to balance work and summer schedules. Thank you so much, Ms. Pollard, for being here and for sharing all of these important reminders to keep us safe this summer.
Well, that wraps up our Summer Safety episode! Stay cool, drink plenty of water, look out for one another, and have an incredible, safe summer vacation.
Ms. Pollard:
Have a fun and safe summer! I can’t wait to hear all your stories when you get back.
Mr. Marycz:
Yes! We’ll see you in August—go Warriors!
Both:
Bye!
