Introduction
Summertime is here and it's time to get outdoors! Whether you're hitting the beach, heading to the park, or just taking a few steps out of your own backyard, it's important to ensure your little one is safe and protected when they join you.
Along with all of the fun in the sun comes some extra precautions when it comes to keeping kids safe and healthy. From proper protection against the sun’s rays to the right supplies for an afternoon picnic, there are plenty of essentials that you should have on hand before venturing out with your kiddos.
In this article, we'll provide you with tips and essential items that will help make your summer outing as breezy (and as safe) as possible.
Essential Baby Gear: Strollers, Carriers & More
It’s essential to prepare for adventures with your little ones by having the right gear. Whether you’re planning a trip to the park or just looking for ways to get around town safely, here are some essentials to consider:
- Stroller: Make sure your stroller fits both your child and lifestyle. Look for features that allow for a smooth ride, good maneuverability, and an adjustable handle so it’s comfortable for any user.
- Carrier: For young babies or infants, carriers give you hands-free convenience and can help maintain the baby’s safety as you move about. Look for carriers that provide comfortable support and are adjustable in size.
- Snack Holder: When going on outings with young children, it's important to have a place to put snacks and drinks within reach. Choose a snack holder that is compact yet spacious enough to carry snacks, bottles, utensils, and more.
- Parasols: If you're planning on attending outdoor events or taking extended trips with your little one, a parasol is great as it’s lightweight and easy to maneuver yet provides optimal protection from the elements.
- Car Sun Shades: Protect your children from the sun with these car window sunshades. You never know when the sun will peek out from behind the clouds, so it's best to be prepared. With these sun shades, you can keep your little ones safe from the sun's harmful rays. We all want to keep our children safe, and with these sunshades, you can do just that.
By having these essentials at hand, you'll be ready for a safe summer full of fun experiences with your children!
Summer Clothing Essentials for Babies & Kids
In the summer months, it's essential to dress your little ones in comfortable clothing that will keep them cool and safe in the hot weather. Here are the must-have pieces for babies and kids:
* Lightweight T-shirts and Shorts - Look for breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. These will let air circulate while protecting your children from too much sun exposure. Choose bright colours that won't fade in the sun, and opt for styles with features like snaps to make diaper changes quick and easy.
* Sun Protection - UV protection clothing is essential for babies and children, as it blocks 98% of harmful UV rays. It also stays cooler than regular cotton clothing, making it an easy choice for those long outside days.
* Visor Cap or Wide Brimmed Hat - A hat is essential for protecting your child’s head and face from the sunlight during outdoor activities. Choose one with a wide brim to help block out the excess sun. A visor cap or soft helmet is best for babies, as this won’t leave any marks on their delicate skin.
* Water Shoes - If you’re visiting the beach or lake this summer, water shoes are a must-have item to protect little feet from sharp rocks or shells. Look for ones that are quick-drying but still offer plenty of protection against sharp objects.
Sun and Heat Safety: Sunscreen & UV Protection
When temperatures rise, be sure to keep your little ones safe in the summer. One of the most important steps is making sure they are protected from the sun's UV rays.
The best way to do this is with reliable sunscreen and UV-protective clothing. Sunscreen should have an SPF rating of at least 30, and non-nano zinc oxide is recommended for babies over 6 months of age. Look for the words “broad spectrum” and “UVA & UVB protection” on the label to ensure your choice covers both types of rays.
As far as clothing goes, look for styles that are lightweight, breathable and tightly woven - this will help protect against UV rays while also keeping them cool in the summer heat. If you can't find items specifically made to be sun-safe, layer up: long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and rash guards should provide enough coverage when you're out in the sun.
Fun in the Sun: Tips for Outdoor Activities With Kids
Sometimes the simplest of occasions, like taking a walk in the park or having a picnic at the beach, can be more enjoyable with some planning. Here are our tips for making outdoor activities with kids fun for the entire family:
- Clothing and Protection
Ensure that your little one is dressed according to the weather conditions. If it's sunny out, light-colored and comfortable clothing is essential, and you can add hats, sunglasses and sunscreen to shield them from harmful UV rays.
- Toys
Make your outdoor adventure more fun with plenty of toys! Keep it interesting by bringing lightweight supplies such as bubbles, a set of watercolours and brushes, or a few small toys. Outdoor play should always be supervised as much as possible.
- Strollers & Carriers
If you're going for an extended walk and don't want your little one tiring themselves out too quickly, strollers and carriers are essential to providing them comfort while keeping them safe. Choose a lightweight stroller with adjustable reclining seats and 5-point safety harnesses for optimal comfort without compromising on security.
- Bikes & Trikes
Have a fun and safe trip for your little one this summer with bikes & trikes. Learning to ride a trike is fantastic for developing gross motor skills, helping to boost your child's coordination and balance, as well as building up muscle strength. For your little one knew what it takes to keep the babies safe and sound when they are playing around and exploring the world around them.
Help Your Little Ones Stay Cool and Hydrated
Summer days can be hot and long for little ones, so it's important to keep them cool and hydrated. Here are some tips to help your baby or child stay comfortable during the warm months:
- Water
Encourage your children to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Pack a few bottles of cold water each time you leave the house, and consider investing in an insulated lunch box or cooler bag when heading out for extended periods.
- Sun Protection
Provide children with full-coverage clothing that covers their arms and legs when playing outdoors. Forgo lightweight hats in favor of wide-brimmed, UV-resistant hats to protect their face and ears from sunburns. Ensure proper sun protection with waterproof sunscreen—for babies under 6 months old, check with your pediatrician before applying any product on their skin.
By planning ahead, you can make sure your kids are prepared for summer fun without risking heat exhaustion or sunburns!
Conclusion
With summer officially here, many families are preparing to keep their little ones safe and happy while they enjoy the outdoors. Planning ahead is the key to having a worry-free summer, with everything from stocking up on sunscreen to purchasing a swim-proof baby monitor. Keep your little ones safe this summer and make your vacation time easy and enjoyable with these imperative tips and essentials. With the right precautions and supplies, you'll be able to have a stress-free summer and make the most of this beautiful season. Check out the range of summer essentials for your little ones.
