Keeping Your Baby Safe During The Summer

It’s going to be yet another steaming summer this year, so here are a few tips to keep your little ones safe and cool from the sun.

• Cover your baby’s body with clothing. This includes arms and legs. Also use sun hats with a wide brim or long flap at the back to protect their head and neck from the sun.
• Sunscreen isn’t recommended for babies who are less than 6 months old, so again, clothing and hats are the best options.
• Babies who are less than 6 months old should be kept out of direct sunlight as their skin doesn’t contain enough melanin which means they don’t have enough pigments that provides protection from the sun.
• When using sunscreen, always do a test on a small area of your baby’s skin to check for skin reactions.
• Give your baby a cool bath before bedtime. This will bring their body temperature down to ensure they have a good night’s sleep.
• Keep your baby’s bedroom cool by closing the blinds and curtains during the day. Also keep a fan handy to circulate the air in the room, but don’t point the fan directly towards your baby.
• If you have a air conditioner, don’t let the room get too cold.
• For bedtime, try and keep pyjamas and bed clothes to a minimum. Use a single layer baby sleeping bag or well secured sheet and put them in just a nappy if your baby kicks the covers off during the night - like we all do.