Help to keep young children cool this Summer

With the us the recent hot weather, it's more important to make sure little ones are comfortable in the day and especially at night time. 

We're fully aware for many this may be like teaching you to suck eggs but we're also fully aware of the potential for baby brain and the frequent mind blanks that can come with having little ones!

With that in mind, we've put together a few tips and reminders to help with keeping your little ones cool & comfortable in the warmer weather: 

1. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is key to beating the heat. Keep some in the fridge for some extra cool water, make sure they have a bottle by their beds at night and we sometimes pop ice cubes in to keep it that bit fresher for longer. You can always add slices of fruit to infuse some flavour and offer hydrating snacks like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges.

2. Dress Lightly and Wisely: Choose lightweight, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing for your children during hot summer days. Lighter colours will also maintain a lower temperature when out in the sun.

3. Apply Sunscreen: Protecting your children's delicate skin from harmful UV rays is crucial. Make applying sunscreen a daily routine. Explain that sunscreen acts as a shield against the sun and prevents sunburn. Involve them in the process of applying sunscreen, making it a playful and bonding experience.
4. Seek Shade: When spending time outdoors, encourage your children to seek shade during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. A shaded area, such as under a tree or a sun umbrella, provides relief from direct sunlight and helps to lower body temperature. Explain the importance of shade as a natural cool spot.

5. Indoor Cooling Strategies: During extremely hot days, it's essential to keep indoor spaces cool. Open all windows where possible to encourage air flow. Close curtains or blinds in the day where the sun shines in directly and if possible try to leave windows, blinds and curtains partly open at night.

6. Optimal Bedtime Conditions: At night, ensuring your child stays cool while sleeping is vital for a restful night's sleep. Use lightweight, breathable bedding materials like cotton or bamboo. Consider using a fan or air conditioning in the bedroom to maintain a cool temperature. Encourage them to wear light pyjamas suitable for warm weather. Explain that good sleep is essential for their overall well-being.

If you have any tips or tricks yourself, please share them below in the comments.