Your baby’s first summers are definitely some of the most interesting and entertaining periods for both them and you. After all, summer weather allows you to have as much fun as possible outside. However, summer also means heat and damaging sun rays. In that respect, you want to protect your baby adequately so that they can benefit from their summer experiences without any health or safety concerns.
Choose the right timing for going out
Obviously, the summer heat can be unbearable and dangerous even for adults, let alone small babies. In that respect, you want to time your outings properly. If you and your child are early risers, make the most out of summer mornings, up until around 10 am. And when you can’t make it outside in the morning, enjoy the outdoors in the summertime after 4 pm.
Stay away from the sun
The best sun protection includes adequate shade. That said, when you go out with your young child during the summer months, always do your best to stay within the safety of nice shade. Obviously, this isn’t always possible. This is why it’s important that your stroller has an adequate cover to protect the baby inside. And in case you tend to spend a lot of time in the park or on the beach, a sun umbrella or tent made with UVA and UVB protection can make a world of difference.
Use baby-friendly sunscreen
Babies that are over six months old can handle sunscreen properly. That said, you can generously apply baby-friendly sunscreen all over your child’s body and face. However, if your baby is less than six months old, you should avoid using too much sunscreen. Apply a thin layer on their exposed skin, but focus on shade and another type of sun protection more. Before you pick out the sunscreen on your own, it would be best to seek advice from the pediatrician who will recommend the best sunscreen for baby’s sensitive skin.
Dress your baby properly
Clothes are very important when it comes to protecting your kid from the damaging sun as well as overheating. In that respect, you want to dress your kid in light clothes and skip too many layers. In general, a baby needs just one more layer compared to adults, so, if you’re good in just a tank top, your baby definitely won’t need 3 or 4 layers of clothes. But, the most important part of a baby outfit during the summer is a hat. Make sure that you choose top-quality baby sun hat that your young child will find comfy and pleasant to wear. Protecting the child’s head with a hat is crucial, especially in the first couple of months when the baby’s skin is the most sensitive.
Combat rashes and insect bites
Heat isn’t the only issue when you’re taking your baby outside during the summer. You also have to protect your child from rashes and insect bites. Of course, getting an insect bite won’t be the end of the world and it might be better to learn whether your kid is overly sensitive to certain insect bites sooner than later, but you still want to protect them as much as possible. A mosquito net is a good way to start, especially if you just want to take your baby for a walk in a stroller. When it comes to insect repellents, discuss the best options with your pediatrician. Natural repellents may be the best solution for a baby. Rashes usually occur due to tight clothes and diapers in the heat so avoid clothes that are too tight for your baby and opt for chlorine-free diapers.
Of course, keep in mind that both you and your baby need to stay hydrated during the summer months. So, always bring a water bottle with you. Babies younger than six months should only drink breastmilk or formula, but if you’re still breastfeeding, you need to drink enough water yourself.
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