Babies handle changes in environment much better than parents think. You can take your baby to the sea, but pay attention to these tips...
Let’s start by saying that babies are ready for any kind of trip once they’re three to four months old. Believe it or not, they adapt to new surroundings much better than we assume – writes the portal Biti roditelj.
Here are a few tips to help you and your baby relax and enjoy your beach days:
Sun Exposure
Don’t forget that even on cloudy days, the sun’s rays pass through the clouds and your baby’s delicate skin can burn, so protection is very important.
If your baby is under six months old, keep them out of the sun and stay in the shade. Older babies or children should avoid being in the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. as that is the hottest part of the day.
When in the sun, dress your baby in light, cotton clothing that covers their arms and legs. Put on a wide-brimmed hat that protects their face and neck, and sunglasses to shield their eyes from the sun and sand.
Before going out into the sun, apply a suitable sunscreen to any area of your baby’s skin that isn’t covered by clothing or a hat, including the hands and feet. It might be easier to apply sunscreen in the morning before dressing your baby, so you don’t miss any important spots. Don’t forget to reapply at least every couple of hours, even if it’s waterproof.
What to Bring to the Beach?
Towels. Hooded towels are recommended for babies because they protect against the wind that often blows on open beaches.
Sunshade. Even if you’ve chosen a seaside destination with plenty of pine trees, you’ll still need a sun umbrella.
Small pool. Very young babies may not feel comfortable seeing the vast blue sea. It can scare them, and they often don’t want to swim. A small pool filled with seawater can be very useful for cooling them down and helping them get used to water.
Beach mat. Useful not only for sitting but also to protect babies from sand. Many babies don’t like sand between their toes and get upset when it happens. If your baby reacts strongly, consider going to a pebbly or rocky beach until they get older.
Water and food. Babies and toddlers get hungry faster in fresh air, so be sure to bring enough water and snacks.
Toys. Bring age-appropriate rubber toys to keep your baby entertained in the water or sand.
Camera. This one’s hard to forget, but it’s really important to take family photos and capture memories of your first seaside vacation with your baby.
Time at the Beach
To ensure fun and relaxation at the beach for you and your baby, pay attention to these safety measures.
Choose a spot that’s not too close to the water to avoid unnecessary soaking of towels or mats if the waves rise.
If you’ve brought a baby tent, make it comfortable by placing towels inside or leveling the sand. Always check that it’s not overheating inside.
Keep a constant watch on crawling babies. Take turns supervising so someone is always watching the baby and ready to react if needed. Don’t stop your baby from exploring, but make sure it’s done safely. You can easily lose sight of your baby on a busy beach, and they’ll usually head straight for the water. Never let them go near the water without you or another adult.
Try to stop your baby from putting pebbles, shells, or sand in their mouth. But don’t panic if it happens. Monitor them, and if there are any signs of stomach trouble, seek medical advice.
In the Water with Your Baby
Just because your baby likes swimming in a pool doesn’t mean they’ll feel the same at the sea. The salt can be unpleasant, and the seawater might irritate their eyes. In that case, take them under the shower and gently rinse their face.
Stay in shallow water where you can sit and hold your baby safely. Don’t go too far out, as some beaches can become deep very quickly. Gentle waves can be fun for your baby, and they might enjoy playing with you in the sea.
When your baby is big enough, you can put them in a rubber float – but still hold onto them.
Don’t stay too long in the water. Babies can get cold quickly. If they start to shiver, it’s time to come out and wrap them in a towel.
If your baby gets upset by the sea, try splashing gently to show how fun it can be. If they still don’t like it, stay in the shallow area and build sandcastles. They’ll have plenty of time to grow to love the sea.