Can you take a newborn to the beach is a prevalent query in the parenting realm.
Your little one accompanying you to the beach can be a thrilling experience.
The shining sun, smooth and crashing waves, tranquil sounds of the ocean and the sandy shores are just some of the captivating experiences from the beach you and you baby will relish.
It’s reasonable enough for parents to want their little one to enjoy such spectacles.
Still, the safety of their baby remains the utmost priority for all parents.
As a result, most parents can’t stop pondering whether their newborn is ready to enjoy the beach.
We’ve got all the answers you need.
Can You Take a Newborn To The Beach
Essentially, babies under six months should avoid too much sun exposure.
This is a result of the underdeveloped baby’s skin lacking melanin. Melanin is the pigment that protects our skin from the sun.
Taking your baby to the beach is among the most effective and practical ways to introduce your little one to the outside environment and the benefits of sunshine, which will have a positive impact as they come of age.
Still, and as pediatricians recommend, it would be best to keep toddlers under six months out of direct and indirect sunlight.
Unlike us adults, newborns can’t regulate their body heat. As such, exposure to the sun and heat might cause sunburns and heatstroke.
Additionally, newborn babies can’t swim. It’s a process they have to learn as they do with walking.
Also, immersing your baby in cold water can negatively impact their health.
Again, unlike us adults, babies’ bodies tend to lose heat rapidly, and they will promptly feel the cold.
Moreover, it would not be a wise idea to call off your family’s opportunity to bond and be together at the beach getaway because of your newborn.
With the appropriate measures in place and prior preparation, you can take your little one to the beach.
Taking a Newborn To The Beach
First and foremost, if you find it necessary to take your baby to the beach, it would be best to avoid the hottest parts of the day.
That is between 11 am and 3 pm. Then, you can head to the beach early in the morning or late in the afternoon when it’s not too hot and less crowded.
Still, adhere to the following tips:
Learn more from related posts:
- How To Grocery Shop With A Newborn?
- How To Get An Overtired Toddler To Sleep?
- Why Does My Baby Fake Cough?
1. Use Shade
As already outlined, babies under six months shouldn’t be exposed to the sun’s UV rays.
As a result, it’s imperative to throw shade when you are at the beach with your baby. Strollers with a UPF sun canopy are a viable option.
Alternatively, bring an umbrella or sit under any shade available. Also, a baby beach tent will come in handy.
2. Sunscreen
Most importantly, wait until your baby is six months old before they start wearing sunscreen.
For toddlers aged below six months old, and you can’t keep them away from the sun, apply tiny quantities of water-resistant sunscreen on exposed areas such as the nose.
Also, even if the sky isn’t sunny, apply sunscreen to your toddler before heading to the beach.
Ensure you apply sunscreen thickly to every area of your little one’s skin that isn’t covered by clothing.
Also, using sunscreen in the morning before dressing toddlers up ensures you don’t miss any patches.
Finally, while at the beach, reapply the sunscreen after every two hours.
3. Stay Hydrated
Your baby will require a lot of fluids. Also, depending on your toddler’s age, you might need to breastfeed more often.
As such, a comfortable beach chair will go a long way in ensuring the breastfeeding process is effortless.
Summing it up, ensure your baby is constantly hydrated to avoid any cases of heat stress.
Also, you might consider bringing a cooler with ice to keep bottles and the water cool.
4. Baby Wear
The right wear at the beach keeps your baby comfortable, cool and protects them from direct sunlight.
As such, long sleeve tops in a lightweight fabric and light-colored pants will come in handy.
Alternatively, a UV suit will get the job done. Additionally, carry a sun hat with a wide brim to shade your toddler’s neck and eyes.
Finally, beach shoes will protect your little one’s feet from sharp objects and the heat of the sand. Also, don’t forget to pack a change of clothes.
Additional Tips For Taking Newborn to The Beach
- Choose a safe spot that’s not too close to the water’s edge.
- Do not leave your little angel unattended, especially in the water. Always ensure you are within the arm’s reach of your baby.
- Pack what you need and know what to leave at home. Diapers, baby wipes, diaper cream and burp clothes are some necessities you have to carry along.
- Most importantly, watch for any signs of discomfort or trouble such as dry skin, redness or warnings that signal dehydration.
So, can you take a newborn to the beach primarily depends on the age of your little one and the safety precautions you take.
It would be best to keep toddlers aged six months below from direct sunlight.
Ultimately, enjoying the beach environment with your baby is fun and healthy. Still, take the appropriate measure to ensure your little angel is out of harm’s way.
Mo Mulla is a work from home dad who enjoys reading and listening to music, He loves being a dad and husband to a growing family. He also loves writing about his passions and hopes to change the world, 1 blog post at a time!
