While most adults look forward to the warm weather, your little one may think otherwise. Against the harsh elements, Infants’ fragile body can be susceptible to heat rash, sunburn, heat stroke, or even a high fever. Infants can sleep deeply in the heat which increases their chance of Sudden Infant death Syndrome. To make your baby comfortable in the heat this summer, follow these tips.
Choose Proper Clothing
A good rule to follow is to dress your baby in the same way you are dressed. If you are wearing shorts and t-shirt, dress your child in the same garments. During the summer opt for loose-fitting clothing that is made out of a light-weight material such as cotton. When spending time outside, opt for light-colored clothing. Whether the sun is out, or behind the clouds, add a hat to your child’s ensemble. A hat will shield your child from harmful ultraviolet rays.
Provide Extra Ventilation
Compared to adults, babies are not as adaptable when it comes to temperature change. Babies can become overheated very easily, and therefore should never leave a baby unattended in a hot room or a parked car. Even a few minutes alone in a poorly ventilated area can be dangerous to a child’s life. The inside of a car on a 70-degree day can reach up to 104 degrees in little as 30 minutes.
Remember to Hydrate
Whether your infant is sweating or not, in the heat of the summer your baby can still lose precious liquids. If your infant is feeling restless or his or her face is flushed your infant may be dehydrated.
Infants under 6 months, should not drink water. Newborns get the water they need from breast milk or formula. Giving a young baby water can decrease their appetite and lead to a condition known as “water intoxication”. The best way you can keep your baby hydrated is nursing or providing formula more frequently.
After 6 months of age, you can introduce water to your child’s diet. Babies between 6 to 12 months can have about two to eight ounces of water on top of the breast milk or formula.
Schedule Outdoor Time
The hottest part of the day is between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. During this time, it is best to keep your baby inside. Keep outdoor time limited to the early mornings or the late afternoon. If you do go out during the hottest part of the day, apply a small amount of sunscreen to any exposed areas.