Different seasons have different perks and challenges when it comes to caring for a baby.
Summer baby care means keeping your baby safe in the stronger sun, hotter temperatures, and in the water.
Sun Protection
Mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide and only natural ingredients are best. You can also layer baby in cool, but protective clothing. Be sure to check out this post: How to Choose A Safe Sunscreen for Toddlers.
Companies like Little Leaves make sun protective clothing for babies that is safe, hypoallergenic, and moisture wicking to keep babies cool and burn free.
Hats are also a great way to protect baby’s head and eyes.
Seek out the shade when available and avoid being out in the early afternoon when the sun’s rays are the harshest.
How to Dress a Newborn in Hot Weather: Caring for Babies & Toddlers
Summer Safety Tips for Your Baby | Parents
- Make sure baby doesn’t overheat.
- Apply sunscreen (only when necessary).
- Dress baby in a hat and long sleeve shirt (lightweight).
- Use loose, lightweight clothes for indoors, too.
- Make sure baby’s drinking plenty of fluids (exclusively breastfed babies don’t need to drink water).
- Use talc-free baby powder on heat rashes, if needed.
- Stay in cool, well-ventilated areas.
Pools And Water
Be sure to always watch your baby when he’s in the water even if he is using a flotation device. Stay clear of pools that are excessive in chlorine or chemicals as these are too harsh on baby’s sensitive skin and system. If the smell of chlorine is strong, it’s probably best to keep the baby away as it could have a negative effect on baby’s lungs, too.
Also, check out How To Introduce Your Baby to Swimming.
Bugs Galore
Bugs and bug bites can also a part of summer baby care. If bugs are a problem in your area, be sure to research safe bug repellents to use on your baby.
The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend DEET products for children younger than two months old and cautions against using any repellent with more than 30 percent DEET on children of any age. ~What To Expect
Try lemon eucalyptus oil instead of DEET – the CDC recently found it provides “protection similar to repellents with low concentrations of DEET.”
Enjoy your summer fun!
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