Summer this year has been hotter than ever, right? At times it almost feels like your skin’s on fire. If you’re feeling this way just imagine how harsh it must be on your newborn! She’s still getting used to this world; her skin is soft and thus needs extra care.
As a parent, it’s normal to second-guess yourself when it comes to your little one’s health. So, if it’s your baby’s first summer, don’t fret. Here’s a checklist of summer essentials to ensure she stays healthy and happy all season long.
Taking care of your baby in summer is bound to be a ride fraught with excitement; somewhat like being on a rollercoaster. Here are some things you must keep in mind:
1. Sunscreen
Babies have really delicate skin that can’t handle the hot sun easily. So, if your baby is over six months old, be sure to stock up on SPF 30+ to keep her safe from sunburn or feeling the brunt of UV rays. If she’s under six months, it would be best to keep her out of the sun altogether.
2. Calamine lotion
Summer means plenty of sweating, and babies are prone to developing rashes whenever there’s the slightest of hint of moisture. Calamine lotion helps to soothe these bumps and itches, so make sure you always have a bottle handy. With it you can give your tot quick relief from prickly heat.
3. Baby-safe mosquito repellent
Everybody knows that summer is the season for bugs, ticks, and other insects. Mosquitoes, in particular, are notorious for spreading diseases such as malaria, dengue, and chikungunya.. So, use a mosquito repellent such as Goodknight Patches, which are also available in cute Chhota Bheem designs. The patches can be used on several surfaces. You could even stick them on the baby’s crib. Rest assured, they are absolutely safe for your newborn.
4. Adequate hydration
Being in the sun excessively can lead to heatstroke. If you have to be outside, staying hydrated is your best bet to avoid it. Babies sweat a lot and frequently urinate, which robs them of the hydration they need, especially during the summer months. So, always keep clean drinking water handy to ensure you and your baby are sufficiently hydrated.
5. Summer clothes
Babies should be dressed in clothes that allow their skin to remain cool while trapping the right amount of heat to keep them comfortable. Shop for the right kind of clothes made from porous ‘breathable’ fabrics such as cotton.
6. Eucalyptus/neem oil
It’s not advisable to bathe your toddler with harsh antiseptic soaps, yet thorough cleansing of the skin is quite important in summers. To keep your baby germ-free without harming her soft, tender skin, put a few drops of eucalyptus or neem oil in the bath water.
7. Antiseptic wipes
Summers are dry and dusty; just the right time to get stray infections. Pat your baby down with mild antiseptic wipes every now and then, especially in public places where the chance of contracting disease is high. This is a handy way to keep your baby protected.
Parenting is a lifelong process, and nobody gets it perfectly right on the first go. So don’t stress; remember to reach out to your loved ones for support. A tiny human is tough to raise, but you’ll get better at it as the days go by – after all, it’s all about learning on the job!
