The good weather is here, and in the great heat, everyone wants to go to the beach. However, in families where one or two babies are part of the splashing crew, the question often arises whether it is safe to move to the shore. With proper precautions and careful preparation, the answer is a definite YES! Instead of worrying and fretting, mothers only need a well-compiled 'baby at the beach' list, and the whole family can enjoy the cool water together.

Lasting experiences safely: let's see what it takes!

Beach with a baby = 'packhorse' mode

There's no sugar-coating it, if we visit the beach with children, especially with a baby, we have to bring a lot of stuff that we probably won't need all day. Except, of course, in the one case where we don't bring the questionable item. Then it would have been the most important accessory all day. (Thanks, Murphy!) Therefore, for the baby's safety, it is essential to have several swimsuits and swim diapers, as thorough drying and changing clothes are important to avoid infections and cold symptoms when coming ashore from the water. For nap time, we can protect the little one's body with a sun suit or a small bodysuit. For smaller ones, a ring sling can be useful, allowing the mother and baby to splash together even in natural waters, while for older ones, a life jacket, arm floats, and swim ring are needed. In addition to healthy snacks, chilled fruits, and easy-to-eat, practical foods, non-carbonated water is also a given, but fewer people think of a sun hat (better two than one), a sun tent, a blanket, or cups.

It's not just about the baby!

For complete happiness, it's important not to think only about the baby when going to the beach. Bring enough towels for every family member, as well as a picnic blanket and a separate play blanket for the baby. Don't forget hand towels and baby wipes, disinfectant spray and band-aids, pain relievers and tick tweezers, as well as plastic cutlery, board games, and garbage bags. If we also take care of storing wet clothes separately, there will be no reason for arguments all day. Remember, if we want to get through the afternoon nap time at the beach, we will need appropriate shading equipment for the stroller. On a shadier part of the beach, in a quieter resting place, we can even set up a tent, allowing mother and child to nurse discreetly and the afternoon rest to take place in a more intimate setting.

Sun protection with little ones on the beach

It's no coincidence that it's often said to avoid being in the sun between 11 AM and 3 PM if possible. In recent weeks, the temperature has often been high even in the early morning hours, and during the day the sun's rays can almost burn.

That's why it's essential to avoid direct sunlight during the critical period and ensure proper, safe sun protection all day! Choose a baby-friendly sunscreen with SPF 50 and don't forget to protect the lips and facial skin as well.

The rules of beachgoing and sun protection are as follows:

1. For children, reapply sunscreen every one and a half to two hours, and for adults, every three hours, even if it seems unnecessary.

2. Thoroughly dry and towel off those coming from the water, then reapply sunscreen.

3. For family members with fair or particularly sensitive skin, use special products or consult a specialist.

4. While taking medication, always read the patient information leaflet and avoid sunlight if using products that cause photosensitivity.

5. After minor surgeries, medical treatments, laser hair removal, or cosmetic or other tattoos, ALWAYS follow the specialist's advice.

 

Stress-free family experience program

We won't lie, going out with the whole family, finding the perfect spot - close to the restroom, the pool, and the restaurants, in the shade but not cold, etc. - setting up, keeping an eye on everything, and having a good time all day is not that easy. But if we don't chase an idyllic picture in our minds and accept that going to the beach with a baby is like being anywhere else with a baby, just much better, we can create and experience countless happy, shared moments together. Let's get ready for swimming!