We’re moving head-first into summer now and some of us have already experienced an uncharacteristically hot spring. It is only natural we might be worried about the littlest ones amongst us. For that reason, we’re going to look at safe tips to keep babies and toddlers cool and safe as we get through the summer months. It’s nothing too difficult, just a few common-sense tips to keep in mind.
Keep babies under 6 months old out of direct sun
It’s one of the most important tips to keep in mind and one that you should avoid breaking. Babies that are under the age of six months are at a much higher risk of sunstroke, which is a true emergency situation. This can be caused not only by direct sunlight but indirect sunlight as well. Sunscreen is not advised for any infants, so the better solution is to keep them out of the sun as best as possible. Avoid going out when the sun is strongest from around 10 am to 2 pm. Otherwise, make sure that they have a sunshade on their stroller if you do have to take them out with you.
Shade the car as well
The tips about staying away from the outdoors between the hours of 10 am to 2 pm, or any time that the sun is particularly fierce, account for the car as well. Everyone should know by now the danger that a car can pose on a hot day and be sure to never, ever leave a child in a car unattended, especially in the summer. However, if you do have to travel, then be sure to shade the windows of the car, primarily the window that is over your child. You can also get sunshades for their baby seats in the car, as well, which can low the temperature that they are exposed to by a drastic degree.
Keep yourself hydrated
This tip is especially important for any moms who are still breastfeeding their children. You don’t want to spend too much time in the sunlight, as dehydration and overheating can be a problem for you as well. However, if you do go out, then make sure that you’re keeping yourself protected. Sunscreen safety for expecting and breastfeeding moms is all about using organic products that are protective. At the same time, it should be guaranteed safe for both your skin and your baby. Otherwise, if you’re getting dehydrated, you might end up producing less milk than you should, and you might find that both feeding and pumping can become more painful.
Be careful of germs
We are all being a bit more cautious about what our children are exposed to from the outside world in general, thanks to the COVID-19 outbreak. However, there are some bacteria and viruses that tend to spread more in the summer, such as enteroviruses which primarily affect young children and can be a real cause for concern. Keep an eye out for flu-like symptoms and act early. Getting your pediatrician involved if you feel the illness has gone on too long is wise. Otherwise, be extra careful to monitor that any toys they play with are sanitized regularly. Also, be sure to wash both your and baby’s hands after any errands, meals, or swimming.
Dress for the heat
Make sure that both you and baby are ready for weather shifts at any time. While it may seem mild one moment, it can become hotter in an instant in the summer. As such, it’s a good idea to choose a nice breathable cotton onesie for your child to wear in the summer. If it gets cooler, you can keep an extra layer or two on them. You can keep lightweight blankets in your baby bag so that if they need another layer, it’s easy to whip them out. Similarly, a wide-brim hat in the bag can protect them in case the sun suddenly gets a lot stronger.
Check for bug bites often
Ticks, mites, and mosquitos are a lot more common as it gets hotter. If you live in or spend any time in a heavily wooded area, you should be wary of bug bites and take precautions, making sure that the long sleeves and pants tucked into socks are worn. Check over your child for bug bites every day, as the threat of Lyme disease from deer-tick bites raises significantly in the summer. Learn how to spot a tick bite and see your pediatrician as soon as possible if your child develops any flu-like symptoms while they have a bite on their body. Acting quickly is the key to recovering as best as possible.
Mind your stress levels
The heat of that summer sun doesn’t only affect us physically, but it can affect us mentally, as well. When we’re hot, stuffy, and we have to try even harder to keep our kids healthy and safe, it’s only natural that we might be dealing with higher stress levels. Not only can this make us irritable parents, but when our minds are stressed they are also forgetful. We pay less attention to detail, and more likely to make mistakes. This is not something that any parent of a newborn or toddler needs. For that reason, take in mind these tips on summer mindfulness that can help you keep a cool, calm, and collected head on your shoulders and the other tips will be much easier to follow.
You might have already known a lot of these tips or at least been able to figure them out. However, it’s important to ingrain them actively in your mind so that you don’t have to be reminded. Always be prepared for those extra hot days and nights and what you can do to keep your little one safe throughout.