DEET

• DEET has been proven to be the most effective repellent against ticks and fleas. However, DEET is also suspected to contribute to neurological disorders and other health issues in children. The American Pediatrics Association recommends that children use DEET-based repellents containing no more than 30 percent of the chemical. DEET-based repellents should be reapplied every six hours, or more frequently if the repellent has been washed off by swimming or perspiration.
  
  

Permethrin-based Repellents

• Permethrin kills ticks on contact, but this repellent should only be applied to clothing and outdoor gear such as tents and backpacks, not skin. Fabrics that have been treated with Permethrin will maintain protection for approximately two weeks unless the fabrics are laundered. For best results, spray fabric items with a light coating; do not saturate. Allow items to dry for at least two hours prior to wearing. Spray Permethrin -based sprays in a well-ventilated area, wash hands thoroughly after application and avoid touching your eyes. as Permethrin can cause eye irritation.
  
  

Botanicals

• Parents wishing to avoid using chemical-based repellents have the option of choosing botanicals. According to the New York State Department of Health, however, tick repellents containing plant-based oils such as lemongrass, soy, or citronella offer limited protection against ticks. These types of repellents may only be effective for one to four hours after application, so they must be reapplied frequently.
  
  

Preventive Measures

• Dress children in long pants and long-sleeved shirts to prevent ticks from attaching to the skin. When camping or hiking, children should wear hats, tuck pant legs into socks and wear boots or shoes, not sandals. Advise children to stay on hiking trails and avoid thick, moist vegetation where ticks may hide. Wear light-colored clothing so that ticks will be visible. Unless the clothing has been treated with Permethrin, wash it when returning indoors, and wash tick repellent off of skin with soap and water. Check children's hair and behind ears for ticks when they come indoors.