Summer Essentials for Baby

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Summer Essentials for Baby

Whether your baby is still an infant or fast growing into a toddler, there are certain precautions that need to be taken for the summer for all young children. Heat and sunlight can effect a baby much more quickly than an adult. However, with a few basic preparations, you’ll be all set to hit the beach or pool. There are also the fun things to consider, like what baby will wear this sunny season to keep both cool and cute. Here are a few essentials that you should stock up on to give your baby a happy and healthy summer.

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1. Swimming for Babies
While you may know the ins and outs of adult skincare and sun protection, you’ll need a whole other set of baby stuff to protect your little one. To start gearing up for fun in the sun, you should consider the specific needs of your child. Taking a baby into the pool can be a blast for both of you, but you’ll need to have the right supplies on hand. There’s swimwear out there made specifically for babies, in fact companies like Honest make adorable swim diapers that come in all types of colors and patterns, and are made of organic, quality materials that will keep your baby healthy and safe. Unlike regular disposable swim diapers, reusable ones not only save you money, but also provide a better and secure fit for your child. When you’re ready to hit the beach or pool, look no further than a reusable swim diaper.

2. Hydration Is Essential
Although you might have the right supplies, you also need to remember that babies have different needs in the heat than adults. Unfortunately, dehydration is common in the summer amongst infants and young children. Warning signs of dehydration in babies include a dry mouth or tongue, fewer than six wet diapers per day, fever, not many tears when crying, and more, according to Huffington Post. If you suspect dehydration, the site suggests trying to get the child to drink electrolytes, such as Pedialyte, and to contact your pediatrician as soon as possible. Dehydration in babies can escalate very quickly to life threatening levels. Make sure to keep a close eye on your baby and keep them hydrated at all times.

3. Skin Protection
The FDA advises against using sunscreen on your baby until speaking to your doctor. A better solution they suggest is to keep your baby in the shade as much as possible and choose clothing that provides maximum coverage and protects sensitive skin from the sun. The Mayo Clinic also warns that babies under six months should be kept out of direct sunlight at all times and dressed in protective clothing, including sunglasses. If you’re going to be spending time by the poolside this summer, make sure that your little one has ample shade as well. Setting up under an umbrella wherever you are is ideal.

4. A Lightweight Carrier
Parents Magazine recommends using a carrier made of lightweight nylon instead of heavier, more common fabrics. The site warns to watch your infant’s face with care, since a flushed face indicates overheating. A baby won’t be able to tell you what’s wrong, so you want to be careful you take all the right precautions. Summer carriers are relatively easy to find, but you’ll need to invest in one, preferably before the season starts to heat up.

In addition to find a breathable carrier, you should also take into account functionality. Many baby carriers made for the warmer months are also designed to be streamlined and allow for storage. Make sure you stock any room you have in your carrier to stow away supplies with water and other means of hydration. You can also choose a carrier that allows your child to face you, in order to keep close tabs on the state of their skin and color. You’ll also want to make sure that the carrier you choose offers proper ergonomic support, especially since you’ll probably be doing a fair amount of walking if you’re at the beach or pool. Make sure you read reviews from other parents about the types of carriers that have worked the best during the summer months for them. You’ll also want to avoid any type of carrier with straps that tend to chafe the skin, since you’ll be wearing summer clothes yourself.

Summer traditionally is a time of relaxation and leisure, and this can be even more so when you have a baby to share it with. Although babies need lots of special care and preparation to take a first journey to the beach or pool, you’ll be making wonderful memories in the process once you’ve got all your bases covered. Get ready to suit up in your favorite swimwear alongside an adorable printed swim diaper, and enjoy the sun with your baby the right way.

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