The summer is a wonderful season, but it may be a little challenging when it comes to looking after newborns. High temperatures, exposure to the sun and changes in routine may affect your little one’s well-being. Here is a complete guide on how to handle the summer with your newborn and to guarantee maximum comfort and safety for your baby.
1. Sun protection
A newborn’s skin is extremely delicate and sensitive to sunlight. Here is some fundamental advice on ways to protect your baby:
- Suitable clothing: dress your little one in lightweight, breathable clothing, preferably made of cotton. Opt for light colours that reflect the sunlight.
- Sunhats and sunglasses: use a sunhat with visor to protect your newborn’s face and eyes. Sunglasses with UV protection can be useful for preventing damage to your baby’s eyes.
- Sun cream: even if newborns should be kept in the shade as much as possible, apply a sun cream for kids with a high protection factor (SPF +50) on all the exposed parts of the body.
2. Constant hydration
Newborns are more susceptible to dehydration compared to adults, especially during the summer months:
- Frequent feeding: if you are breastfeeding, offer your breast more often. Breast milk provides baby with all the necessary fluids. If you bottle-feed, make sure your baby drinks regularly.
- Water and drinks: you can start to offer babies over six months old small quantities of water. Always consult the pediatrician before introducing new liquids into your baby’s diet.
3. Regulate the temperature
For your baby’s well-being, it’s crucial to prevent overheating:
- Cool environments: keep your newborn’s room cool by using fans or air conditioning. Make sure the air does not blow directly on your baby.
- Lukewarm baths: a bath in lukewarm water can help refresh your baby and keep his body temperature under control.
4. Beware of insects
Summer also sees the arrival of insects that can be both annoying and harmful for newborns:
- Mosquito nets: use mosquito nets on windows and doors to stop insects from coming into the house. You can also use a mosquito net on your baby’s cot and pram.
- Natural repellents: avoid using chemical repellents on newborns. Opt for natural solutions and always consult your pediatrician before using them.
5. Journeys and trips
If you are planning on travelling or going on a trip, make sure you have everything you need for your newborn’s comfort:
- Emergency kit: always take a first-aid kit with you so you have everything baby needs, including nappies, wipes, a change of clothes and skincare products.
- Timing your travel: try to travel during the cooler hours, like the early morning or late evening, to avoid the hottest time of day.
6. Danger signals
Learn to recognise signs of distress that your newborn may show as a result of the heat:
- Redness and excessive sweating: if you notice that your baby is too red or is sweating excessively, try to cool him down immediately.
- Lethargy and irritability: if your newborn looks lethargic or is extremely irritable, it could be a warning sign that he is overheating or dehydrated. Consult the pediatrician if the symptoms persist.
The summer can be a wonderful time of the year to spend in the open with your newborn baby, but it is essential to take the right precautions to ensure his health and well-being. If you follow this advice, you will be able to enjoy the summer safely and share unforgettable moments together with your little one.