How to keep baby cool during the heatwave?

The heatwave can be difficult to bear, especially for babies who are more sensitive to temperature variations. Indeed, during their first months of life, babies cannot regulate their body temperature themselves. Their thermal regulation system is not yet fully developed at birth.

However, summer is a great opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities and allow your little one to wake up and observe nature.

I offer you some tips to help you ensure optimal comfort during a hot period, while enjoying the summer days.

1. Dress your baby lightly

Opt for light, breathable clothing made from cotton, bamboo or lyocell. These fabrics, made from natural fibers, allow the skin to breathe.

Short-sleeved bodysuits or rompers are really perfect for little ones. In addition to being loose, the fabric allows air to penetrate the garment well.

Avoid synthetic materials which can trap heat and cause irritation.  

2. Stay indoors during warmer hours

I do not teach you anything. I know this is a rather difficult tip to follow since it is often during these times that outdoor activities take place. Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the temperature is warm, the sun is high in the sky. Take the time to do small activities indoors, and instead go outside at the end of the day or early in the morning.

3. Use a fan indoors

Make sure the room where your baby is is well ventilated. However, be careful not to direct the air from the fan directly at the baby to avoid cold drafts. You can simply direct the fan in another direction to keep the room well ventilated.

4. Hydrate your baby regularly

Babies can become dehydrated quickly. Frequently offer water to older babies who can drink it. For breastfed or bottle-fed babies, increase the frequency of feedings to ensure good hydration.  

If your little one can now eat solid foods, opt for fresh foods like fruits and yogurt.

Moms even make popsicles with their breast milk. Place the expressed milk in a small mold and put it in the freezer! It's a trick for teething, but it's also a great method to allow them to discover cold foods. Choose a small mold suitable for little hands and that's it! Your little one should be at least 6 months old.

5. Take cool baths or refresh

Give your baby lukewarm baths, without soap, several times a day to help regulate his body temperature. Make sure the water is not too cold to avoid thermal shock.  

You can also pat a small washcloth of cool water on your little one's skin to refresh it. It is also possible to use a fine mist mister to cool your little one, avoiding direct exposure to the face of course.

If baby is now 4 months and older, you can enjoy the pool with him, in your arms. Make sure the water is well tempered and enjoy short swimming periods, a maximum of 10 minutes. This is enough to cool him down and prevent him from getting cold.

6. Create a cool environment

If you want to sit outside, make sure you create a shaded space where your baby can sleep or play in peace. Install a parasol, their deckchair or a rug on the ground, if your child is old enough to sit down.

If you are planning a stroller ride, avoid laying down a blanket to hide the sun. The air circulates with difficulty and you risk creating overheating. Instead, install a small umbrella specially designed for strollers.

In addition, we avoid carrying, unless we are in a temperate place. If you're outside, you'll be warm, and so will your baby.

Use of sunscreen, from 6 months

Before 6 months, it is recommended to avoid sunscreen. Babies' skin is too thin and fragile. You must make sure to keep it cool and offer it shade and a slight breeze to avoid heat stroke.

After 6 months, you may want to consider using sunscreen. Ask a healthcare professional for advice before choosing your sunscreen. They will be able to advise you on choosing a suitable product for your little one's skin.

Summer is short and you shouldn't stop enjoying the good weather. However, you just have to do it intelligently. Choose the ideal times of day, early in the morning or at the end of the day, keep fresh water nearby, small washcloths and of course, dress in light, loose clothing made from breathable fabrics! And we don’t forget the little hat!

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