9 Ways to Protect Your Little One from the Summer Heat

9 Ways to Beat the Heat with Your Little One this Summer

The summer seasons are notorious for outdoor adventures, soaking up the sun and spending quality time with the family. However, despite the excitement the summer months can also be a challenging time for keeping your child safe and comfortable. The heat and humidity of this action-packed season can pose serious risks to your child’s health if you are not adequately prepared.

Babies and young children are much more susceptible to generating heat-related illnesses as well as allergic reactions and can be severely affected by things such as dehydration, heat exhaustion and sunstroke. To ensure your child is protected all summer long try some of these techniques and products that help ease some of the challenges of this busy season.

Dress Appropriately

Different venues require a different set of attire. If your plans require you to be indoors dress your child in something light and ventilated. Because there is limited direct sunlight indoors, dressing in cotton outfits that expose your child’s skin is appropriate.

If your plans take you outdoors consider cotton fabrics that are long and loose-fitting. They should cover the child’s limbs reducing exposure to UV rays and protecting their sensitive skin. You might also consider investing in a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for protecting the face and eyes of your young child. Many children’s clothing lines offer pieces with tightly-woven fabrics specifically designed for UV protection.

Stay Hydrated

Similar to adults, dehydration is one of the many dangers for young children during the summer months and they require plenty of liquids throughout the day. If you are breast-feeding your child may need to breastfeed more often than normal so it’s also important that you are staying hydrated as well.

For children over six months, you can get creative with your liquids. In addition to water try diluted fruit juices, popsicles, and ice cubes. Nestle offers fruit and veggie bars that are healthy, low in sugar and can assist with hydration.

Timing is Everything

There are certain times of the day that are more risky than others in terms of heat and sun exposure. The sun rays are most harsh between 10AM and 4PM each day. This is true even when there is cloud coverage. In addition, the temperatures can appear hotter later in the day due to hours of sun exposure. If planning an outdoor activity, try to schedule play before or after these peak hours.

Be Shade Savvy

As was previously mentioned, it is important to limit a child’s direct exposure to UV sunlight. One way to do this is to seek shade by any means necessary. This could entail finding tree covering while at the park, using an umbrella at the beach or investing in a shade device for the child’s car seat or carrier.

One product that comes helps in shading your child while you are out-and-about a Baby Car Seat Cover such as this from CheekyTummy. Other similar products are available at major retailers and are a great source of shade and protection for your child as you travel and run errands throughout the day.

Ensure Quality Ventilation

Babies and young children do not sweat as effectively as an adult which can lead to overheating. Leaving your child unattended in a car or other stuffy location should be avoided at all costs as temperatures can reach dangerous levels. Even with a window cracked, temperatures in a car can increase at a rapid pace despite an outside temperature that is moderate. It’s always better to invest the extra effort in taking your child in with you even if the time required is minimal.

There are also preventative measures such as leaving your windows open while you are out, or using sunshades to reduce temps upon your return. These tactics can go a long way in ensuring your child’s comfort on the ride home.

Choose Effective Sun Screens

If done correctly, sunscreen can be very effective in warding off a burn or other sun-related skin damage. One burn can have life-long effects on the health of your child’s skin. When shopping, look for products that provide broad spectrum UVA protection, have an SPF of at least 15 or higher, are water-resistant and fragrance-free. A sun screen with a high SPF does not necessarily ensure your child is protected. All of these factors should be considered when investing in a lotion for your child.

The application of the sun screen is also important for maximizing protection from ultra-violet rays. Make sure you apply the sunscreen at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled outdoor activity, making sure to cover all areas but especially portions of the body where the skin is thinner and more susceptible to burn. This includes the ears, chest, and back of neck. It is also recommended that you re-apply at least every two hours.

Invest in Skin Soothers

Sometimes despite your best efforts your child might develop a heat rash or sun burn. In the event that your child develops a skin condition this summer, make sure you have products on-hand to soothe their discomfort. A mixture of cornstarch and baby powder is an effective way to relieve heat rash symptoms. For a burn, cool tap water followed by a moisturizer can help with the distress.

Beware of the Bugs

While most summer-safety tips center around hydration and sun protection, bugs are another unfortunate and heat-related reality of summer and can lead to discomfort for your child if not managed appropriately. Make sure you are aware of bug-borne illnesses in your area and take the necessary precautions to protect your child. Consider spraying your child’s bare skin and clothing to protect them from them nightly critters and make sure to re-apply regularly. It is also important to have some sort of antihistamine at home for any bites that result in an allergic reaction.

Ticks are another common bug-related concern in the summer months as your child takes advantage of outdoor activities. Ticks thrive in moist, warm areas and are in full-force during the summer. Develop a routine for checking your children for ticks and make sure they shower shortly after coming inside.

Plan Water Activities

Water activities are a fun and appropriate way to spend your summer days. Allowing your child to play in a kitty pool or with another fun water toy is a great way to keep their skin cool. You might also consider investing in a misting fan to keep your child comfortable throughout the day. All of these water-based ideas are a great way to beat the heat in a fun way.

Have a Bedtime Routine

Sleep is important for everyone but especially for a growing child. Unfortunately, the heat of summer can lead to discomfort and lack of sleep for many children. To ensure your child has a cool and comfortable night make sure you are planning throughout the day. Keep the shades or curtains in the child’s room drawn all day and use a fan to create air circulation. A nursery thermometer can also help monitor temperatures and signal you to adjust if necessary.

Running a cool bath before bed and purchasing light and breathable bed time clothing will also help your child sleep through the night. Establishing a routine will prove beneficial to your child’s ability to have a peaceful night’s sleep.

Although no summer plan is perfect, these simple techniques should assist you with ensuring the best summer yet for you and your little ones. Don’t let the summer heat interrupt your plans. Make lots of memories and beat the heat with these simple summer tricks!