Now that summer is practically upon us, it is time to switch some things out. If you have a toddler, you probably have a diaper or other bag that you take with you everywhere you go. For the winter and spring, it may have contained immune drops for babies to help fight off colds and flus. With warmer weather and more time spent outside, it is time to empty that bag and refill it with summer-friendly items.
How Do I Protect My Toddler in the Summer?
As with any time of the year, there are things you need to protect your toddler from in the summer. The sun is one of them, and although it is important for some sun exposure for vitamin D, sunscreen and a hat can do a lot to provide protection. If you happen to live in an area that does not get a lot of sun, make sure to supplement with organic vitamin D drops for infants if you feel you baby is lacking vitamin D.
Bugs are an issue in the summer in some areas of the country. Find a natural repellant, or use essential oils, such as peppermint, rosemary, or lavender.
What Do Toddlers Need Most in the Summer?
There are numerous essentials you will want to have for your toddler this summer.
1. Sunscreen
We already discussed that sunscreen offers good protection if you will be spending excess time in the sun. However, the majority of sunscreens out there contain harmful chemicals and can actually lead to skin cancer. The only truly safe sunscreens are those that contain zinc oxide or titanium oxide. To get adequate amounts of vitamin D, you should expose your toddler’s skin to the sun before applying sunscreen. Depending on your child’s skin tone, this could be for as short as 5 or 10 minutes.
2. Swim attire
Whether you set up a toddler pool in your backyard, turn on a sprinkler, or you live by a body of water, most toddlers love to spend time in the water in the hot summer days. Along with a bathing suit and towel, you should have water shoes, a cover up, and swim diapers if your toddler is not potty trained.
3. Numerous changes of clothes
Changes of clothes are imperative at any time of the year, and summer is no exception. Sweat, water, and dirt often require the need for dry or clean clothes, so pack more than you think you will need.
4. Water
Extra water is important for hot days, whether you live in a humid or dry environment. Try to use reusable, stainless-steel containers instead of disposable plastic bottles.
5. Wet bag
Having a bag for wet clothes is another all-season essential. It is convenient for putting wet swim attire or sweaty clothes in to keep your other stuff dry.
As a parent, you know how to plan. When your child was an infant, you probably had an organic baby bundle to prepare for discomfort, illness, or immune support. Packing the essentials for summer is no different, and when you are prepared, you are able to enjoy things even more.
