Baby at the beach: our tips and advice
Operation Shadow
A baby's delicate skin is extremely sensitive to the sun's rays. Avoid exposing your babies to the sun. Take sunglasses, a hat, an anti-UV T-shirt, SPF 50 sun cream, a swimsuit and a parasol (an anti-UV tent or teepee will also do) to protect your baby, and choose times when the sun is less intense, i.e. in the morning or late afternoon. If you're going to the beach with your stroller and leaving your baby in it, bring an umbrella to protect him. We're big fans of diapers, but this soft fabric is no protection against the sun. Last but not least, don't forget a spray bottle to gently mist your baby. Take a bottle of water in a cooler to clean your baby's hands, prepare his bottle, give him a drink… And don't forget to drink if you're breast-feeding.
Operation Swim
Before going to the beach, you should know that babies under 6 months of age should not be bathed in a swimming pool or other body of water. The health risks associated with cold water, germs in the water and even ear infections are too great for young infants. Ask your paediatrician for advice before you go on vacation, and when your baby is over 6 months old and not suffering from any pathology, you can start bathing him or her. Start with his feet, when the waves kiss his toes. Check how your baby reacts. If he likes it, you can gradually go higher and deeper. Every baby is different, so take your time and observe your little one carefully.
Drying operation
Babies get cold very quickly in seawater. You'll soon notice if he's shivering and… watch out for those little blue lips. In such cases, you'll need to get your baby changed into dry clothes and wrapped in a nice, fluffy towel. Some children don't like to be soaked or can't stand sand… So remember to take large towels, which will also be useful for putting your baby on or changing his diaper.
Operation Letting Go
The beach can be a real ordeal for some parents. Sand gets everywhere, and your baby can't stop eating it. He licks the little toys soaked in salt water… Take a deep breath (you know cardiac coherence?) and let go. Your baby is discovering the world. Encourage him to explore, keep an eye on him and be surprised by his reactions. The beach is full of surprises!
