Babies, Toddlers, and Summer
Summer is just around the corner for South Australia, and it’s best that you and your little ones have a safe experience.
A summer hat (not a beanie) is not just a fashion statement, it’s necessary to keep the hot sun off your child’s head and prevent serious heat complications. Everyone, especially young children, should wear a hat to protect themselves from the strong sun.
Good news for parents, baby hats and toddler hats are pretty affordable, starting at about $6 for one and going up to about $35 for a hat from Seed.
Remember, a hat should provide:
Comprehensive protection.
Covering the top of the head.
Ears.
The back of the neck.
This is crucial for your child’s safety in the sun.
The beach can be fun but avoid the hottest part of the day
2. Out and about in the car
It’s crucial never to leave a child in a parked car or unaccompanied. A car can heat up very quickly, posing a serious risk to your child’s health. SA Health has some basic tips on keeping children cool in summer, including avoiding using a sling to carry babies because slings don’t allow airflow.
Most cars come with tint on the windows now, and there are shades you can attach to the interior. These shades are a powerful tool to keep children, particularly babies and toddlers, out of direct sunlight, giving you the control to ensure their safety.
Very young children and infants have sensitive skin, with windburn being an issue too. Establishing a routine that works for you and having a pram you can easily get out of the car boot will not only keep them safe but also give you a sense of security and confidence in your caregiving.
3. The Pram
A pram that provides shade and good airflow, rather than a plastic cover designed for wet weather, is crucial for the comfort and safety of babies and toddlers.
SA Health and Women’s and Children’s Hospital provide valuable tips on keeping children cool. It’s essential to be mindful of this when using a pram that lacks good airflow, as it can easily become hotter than the weather forecast by 15C.
Practical solutions like a damp muslin wrap and a transportable umbrella can be a parent’s best allies in keeping their little ones cool.
Avoid extreme heat and make the most of cool evenings and cool mornings.