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Summer might be a blessing in colder regions, but in sultry nations like India, it can feel like more of a bane than boon! The sweltering heat can make you want to spend all your days nestled in the AC, and trust us; your baby is no different!
Babies are very sensitive to heat. Hence, it’s essential to keep them cool as a cucumber during the hottest months of the year. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Keep Them Away From The Sun
Babies don’t have the ability to regulate their body temperature, resulting in moisture loss and dehydration pretty quickly. Take shade when you’re out, or use a stroller with a canopy to protect them from the sun.
2. Dress Them In Cotton
Hot weather calls for comfy clothes! To keep your baby cool:
- Dress them up in breathable cotton clothes, which absorb perspiration.
- Do not add extra layers in summer, even if it’s cute.
- Dress them up like you’d dress yourself.
3. Keep Their Room Ventilated
Humidity can make the weather and your room a little too stuffy for your toddler. The result? A super cranky baby! To prevent that from happening, ensure that your house is well ventilated. You can choose coolers and fans to keep the humidity at bay while making your room cool and breezy.
4. Hydrate Your Baby
Hydration is key to prevent fluid loss, which can occur in summers even if your baby is not sweating. To beat the heat, ensure your baby is hydrated well at all times. If you’re weaning or bottle-feeding your little one, make sure they sip on cooled boiled water throughout the day. Alternatively, you can also place sippy cups everywhere to encourage your child to drink if they’re old enough.
5. Use Baby-friendly Sunscreen Only
If you’re going out for a summer stroll with your baby in the sun, ensure you slather baby-safe sunscreen on them before stepping out. A baby’s skin is very delicate and susceptible to sunburn, so sunscreen is a must. Reapply sunscreen every couple of hours if you’re under sunlight. Also, remember to use a baby-specific waterproof sunscreen with SPF 15.
6. Make Sure Your Baby Carrier Is Fit For Summers
Baby carriers can get your toddler hot and cranky in seconds, thanks to the weather and your body heat. Ergo, it’s wise to avoid carriers made of heavy fabric. Lightweight, breathable options that allow air to pass through will be more comfortable for you and your baby. Get your baby out of the carrier if they look flushed!
7. Dress Them In Wide-brimmed Hats
When your baby’s out playing in the garden or the terrace, cover their head with sun hats to keep the light out of their face and eyes. Use hats with tie-up strings to prevent your baby from taking them off. Also, make sure the hat is breathable and doesn’t irritate the baby in any way.
8. Schedule Their Outdoor Time
If you plan to take your baby out for some playtime, ensure you do not schedule it anytime between 10 am and 2 pm. The sun is at its peak at this time, emanating harsh rays that can damage your baby’s skin. Schedule playtime closer to dusk to keep them safe.
9. Put Talcum Powder On Your Baby
Baby talcum powder will keep your toddler cool and fresh as a daisy on warm summer days. It’ll also keep their skin soft and supple and prevent heat rashes.
10. Let Them Enjoy Summer In An Inflatable Pool
Babies love splashing around in the water during the summer season! Give them a cool way to soak up the season with an inflatable pool. You can add bath toys to the pool too, and turn it into a daily bath ritual that’s a fun and great bonding exercise for both of you!
Summer can seem cruel on your little one. But with these tips, it’ll be easy to beat the heat and enjoy a cooler season, even when it’s hot outside!
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