It looks like it’s going to be a scorcher for some of us this week, wonderful for our bbqs but not so good if you’re looking after a little one in the heat! Here are a few tips to help you during the hot weather
- Babies under 6 months old should be kept out of direct sunlight
- Older babies 6-12 months should be kept out of the sun as much as possible, especially between 11am and 3pm.
- Using a parasol on a buggy will keep direct sunlight off of your baby.
- If your little one is out in the sun remember to put a hat on them, there are some designed to protect the back of the neck from the sun.
- Use a high factor sun cream, and apply it regularly especially if they’ve been in the pool or the sea. Sun cream especially made for children usually contains less irritants.
- Fully breastfed babies don’t need water as well as breast milk until they start on solids but they may want to feed more often in hot weather, offer older babies water with meals and regularly during the day. This should not replace milk feeds. Toddlers might like cool water to drink, or ice lollies made with watered down fruit juice- one a day to avoid tooth decay.
- Blackout blinds can help keep a room cool during the day, leave the windows open as well if possible to prevent the room heating up.
- A fan can help circulate the air but don’t aim it at your baby, direct it nearby so they feel the benefit.
- A cool bath can help before bed
- If your baby is waking for more feeds than usual during a hot night try offering cooled boiled water.
Enjoy the warm weather, it never lasts long in England!
Wishing you all peaceful nights
