Like everyone else, we love going to the beach. The sun on our faces, the wind in the hair…You get the picture. When our little man arrived, we were not sure how to navigate the baby and the beach. My wife was scared the sun would be too hot for him, and frankly so was I.
When we needed to dive into the ocean, we would either get a sitter or ask my parents to watch the baby. My mother was not for the idea. According to her, babies bring sunshine, and they need a little sun as well.
“It will be fun” she would say.
After a while of back and forth on the issue, we decided that maybe it was time he played with sand and waves. My first instinct was to research and find tips about taking your baby to the beach. I talked to my friends, my mom, parents who brought their kids for sunshine fun and read tons of articles about it.
This article is a compilation of all that knowledge.
Is it safe to take your baby to the beach?
Children and the beach are inseparable. The same way you can’t get them to leave the bathtub will be the same way they won’t want to leave the beach. But remain flexible. Some babies are more excited than others. It can be an hours stay, five minutes, or they will never want to leave the seaside. Be prepared to chase your little one around, rock them, and feed them.
The days of reading your favorite novel, catching the next wave, and relaxing are over, and that’s ok because enjoying this moment with your kid will be equally magical. Accepting that things will not be the same will prepare you to parent at the beach and ensure you have a lot of fun as well.
When can a baby start going to the beach?
I was very skeptical about taking my son to the beach during his first few months of life. First, because his immune system is not strong enough, and secondly, the sun would not be friendly to his skin. I also figured that since the sun is already harsh to his eyes, the beach would not be pleasant either.
When a baby is four months or less, I would be hesitant to take them to the beach. Kids usually sit by themselves when they turn four months which makes it the perfect time for a beach visit. They can sit comfortably on their blankets, or pool and enjoy themselves as you relax with a good book. Make sure to keep your little one under shade all the time.
The best time for babies to visit the beach is right before the sun is too hot for them to bear it. Kids get dehydrated quickly, which leads to them being fussy and grumpy. Also, a lot of sun may lead to heat rash and sunburn, so be careful not to expose them to too much sun by avoiding the beach when the sun is too hot.
Can I hold my baby in the ocean?
Babies and water are inseparable. Playing with water is healthy for them and has great developmental benefits. But playing in the ocean is pretty different from playing in the bathtub or having a sprinkler on. It’s only natural that you would like your munchkin to have a little more fun interacting with the waves. And the best way to do that is to hold them in the ocean.
If your baby is six months or less, I would recommend that you don’t hold them in the ocean. They are still too young, and the experience may be scary for them. Older babies will find the waves fascinating, but they are not old enough to be left with the waves all by themselves. Always be with your child to keep them safe.
What you should bring to the beach
1. Invest in shade
Investing in quality shade will come in handy if you plan to visit the beach often. You can use a beach umbrella or a beach tent where your little one can take their time playing. A tent is more expensive, but it’s trendy and cozy for your little one. Be sure to go with a design that does not need engineering to set up. If you have more people who need constant shade, an umbrella may work better for you. It’s large and can accommodate more people. It’s also less expensive, which is a plus for you.
2. Invest in a good sunscreen
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies less than six months apply as little sunscreen as possible. The sunscreen should be SPF 30 to 50 and should not be less than SPF 15. You should apply sunscreen to your little one’s face, feet, and hands (both back and front). AAP says that babies should apply sunscreen from when they are born to protect their skin from the harsh rays of the sun.
Always apply sunscreen on your baby 48 hours before you go out. This way, you can tell if the sunscreen will cause any akin irritation. If they develop a rash, your pediatrician will recommend something friendly to sensitive skin. Be caution around your little one’s face. Wait until they are calm before you apply the sunscreen. This will prevent it from getting into their eyes.
Pro tip: sunscreen should be used year-round even during winter. The snow glare can cause serious burns, just as the sun’s rays. Clouds don’t block UV rays; they filter them.
3. Invest in baby gear
Cute and cuddly babies deserve outfits to match. Even for a beach day, your little one should look their best, just as you want to look great. Invest in a stylish hat that fits or your baby will try to pull it off if it keeps flopping. Next, get cute, comfortable, breathable water shoes for your little one.
Water shoes will protect your child from sharp rocks, glass, and coral. They should be breathable and dry quickly, so your little one’s feet don’t stink. Complete the look with a stylish swimsuit for your baby. Also, have a swim shirt with you so you can cover them up. The more skin you cover, the better.
4. Swimming diaper
Most diaper brands will have a unique design meant for swimming. It’s either going to be cloth or disposable diaper. Whichever diaper you choose, make sure you pick the right size for your child. If you decide to go with a regular diaper, use it with caution. It may explode once it’s completely saturation.
5. Toys
Toys are a great distraction for your little one, so they don’t put sand, shells, and sticks in their mouth. Bring age-appropriate toys so your kid can easily handle them. Regular sand toys may be big if your baby is still young.
6. Blowup baby pool
This is the best way to contain your little one and allow them to have maximum fun as well. You can keep the pool under a shade which is a plus for your baby’s skin. It keeps you away from chasing after your little one (toddler speed is real) and also keeps your child away from strong waves and salty water.
Remember to bring enough water, breastmilk, or formula for your child. Being out in the sun means they will sweat a lot and will need extra liquid to stay hydrated.
Fun activities for you and baby
Activities will highly depend on how old your child is. If they are young, playing with water and their toys may be sufficient. Try these activities with your little one to keep things fun.
1. Build a castle
A good old castle is a right of passage for all kids. Building one requires a lot of shapes and tools, which is great for your child. This activity is perfect for older kids.
2. Write in the sand. This is fun for kids of all sizes
They can scribble on the sand and learn some ABCs along the way. You can write your kids names and have them trace the letter.
3. Kiddie pool
Your child may not be ready for the ocean. A kiddie pool is a perfect place to have some fun. They can make a splash and keep the sand out of their eyes.
4. Toss a ball
Balls are a great way to keep kids active. Carry one for your child and help them toss it around. They will have a great time chasing after it.
5. Take a dive
If your little one is old enough, hold them in water for a bit of wave fun. You can help them sit near the shore where the waves will hit their back.
A day at the beach is fun for everyone, and even babies will have the time of their lives playing with water and a little sunshine. Be sure to use the tips we have given for a day full of fun and sunshine.