Baby at the Beach: 10 Golden Safety Rules!
Beach / Kids / Calm: Yes, these can all fit into the same sentence! As long as you follow some basic safety rules religiously, your time at the beach can be enjoyable and, above all, safe!
They say the beach is synonymous with carefreeness and relaxation. I'd say that's half the truth because the beach is carefree until you become a parent. After that, it becomes the opposite: the final level of a survival game with maximum difficulty.
Parents, stay calm. There is a way to manage it, and it boils down to these 10 golden rules to make your beach stay pleasant and safe:
1. Always keep an eye on your baby!
Accidents happen quickly, so never, ever leave your baby or toddler unattended at the beach, not even for a fraction of a second. This is not an exaggeration.
2. Keep your baby in the shade at all times.
We use a small folding tent that I can set up in two minutes, providing peace of mind. Never leave your baby in the sun between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., even if it is for 10 minutes.
3. Be extra cautious with inflatable toys.
Inflatables toys can turn upside down easily. Personally, I feel insecure with them. You should always stay close, keeping one hand on the inflatable toy.
4. Avoid barefoot walking.
Always ensure your child wears sandals. Even on clean-looking beaches, there could be glass, sharp shells, stones, or hot sand that could harm their delicate feet.
5. No swimming or splashing after eating.
Follow the golden rule of waiting three hours after eating before swimming. Also, ensure your child’s snacks at the beach are safe from spoilage by using a cooler. Opt for snacks that withstand heat, like cereal bars, or store food like fruits and cheese in a shaded cooler.
6. Keep your baby hydrated.
Breastfeeding moms can use the shade of a beach umbrella as a perfect nursing spot. For older children, ensure regular hydration with water or fruits stored in a cooler. Summer days require double the hydration compared to regular days at home.
7. Sunscreen is a must-have beach accessory!
Apply sunscreen generously, even if it looks funny. Focus on sensitive areas like ears, the back of the neck, the tops of the feet and the hands. Use lip balm with SPF for their lips. Reapply sunscreen after swimming or towel-drying.
8. Essential accessories: UV shirts and hats.
During peak sun hours, UV-protective shirts are a must. At first, I thought this was excessive, but I now believe it’s better to be safe than sorry. Also, never let your child roam without a hat. For babies older than six months, choose high-quality sunglasses with proper UV protection from a certified optical shop.
9. Change out of wet swimsuits immediately.
After swimming, remove your baby’s wet swimsuit and put on a fresh diaper. For girls, avoid letting wet swimsuits dry on their skin, especially if they’re playing in the sand. Certified baby-friendly diapers like Babylino Sensitive are ideal. These diapers have won the European Commission's Product Safety Award and hold the OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certification for being free of over 200 harmful substances. You may also use baby swim pants . Suitable for offering hygienic protection in and out of the water.
10. Don’t forget a first aid kit!
Pack essentials like ointments for insect bites and eye drops for sand or debris irritation.
Final Thoughts
Beach outings are some of the most wonderful family moments! Over time, things will get easier, but that doesn’t mean we should loosen up on safety rules. While mother’s worries about her child’s safety never truly end, I assure you that the beach with kids takes on a whole new meaning. Buckets, shovels, inflatable sharks and arm floaties might be a hassle to carry, but they become the most fun gadgets for an unforgettable summer!
Enjoy your swims with safety and plenty of smiles!
With all my love,
Myrto
