Tips for Summertime with a Baby

It’s finally summer! A time that most of us look forward to, but a time that can also be confusing with a new baby. There are many new things to consider with the summer heat and sun exposure. It’s important to keep baby in the shade and to focus on hydration. When it comes to sunscreen and insect repellent, there are a couple key things to note on what and when to use. See below for summertime tips from aap.org.

Sunscreen

• If possible, no sunscreen until baby is 6 months old
• Use hat, sunshade on stroller, umbrella, light clothing to keep baby’s skin from burning
• Use SPF 15 or higher
• Apply at least 30 minutes before sun exposure
• Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating
• Avoid direct sun midday – between 10 am and 4 pm

Insect Repellent

• Don’t use products with DEET on babies younger than 2 months old
• Use DEET 10-30% on babies older than 2 months
• Avoid being outside with baby at dawn and dusk, when bug activity is strongest

Handling the Heat

• Babies can become overheated just like older children and adults
• Utilize shade whenever possible: trees in a park, umbrellas or tents at the beach, a sunshade for your stroller
• Keep clothing light
• Keep baby hydrated
• Never, ever leave your baby in a car

Some other concerns that our new parents might have around summertime with a baby are if and how sleep needs can change with the heat and changes in daylight. If you are struggling in this area, we recommend checking out our Newborn Sleep 101 class. The class is offered both virtually and on-demand, and is an opportunity to ask questions and to have tailored and personalized help from a Pediatric Sleep Consultant.

We hope you have a fun, relaxing, and cool summer with your little ones!