The smarT Head Start
Give your child a smarT head start with these professional insights on healthy child development and practical advice to keep them active, engaged, and happy.
SummerBeat the Heat: 5 Ways to Keep Your Baby Cool This Summer 2024Who doesn't enjoy a lovely hot and sunny day? Summer is the time for family picnics in the park, carefree days by the pool, or relaxing on the beach. However, hot summer months can be particularly challenging for babies and young children who are unable to regulate their body temperatures. As a parent, I always worry about my little ones getting dehydrated or suffering from heat stroke. That's why it's crucial to take measures to keep them cool and hydrated during the summer holiday period.
5 Ways to Keep Your Baby Cool in the Summer
If you’re concerned about your baby during those hot summer months, here are some tips on how to cool down your baby in the heat:
Dress your baby lightlyKeep your baby hydratedGive your baby a cool bathSchedule extra napsKeep your baby out of sunlight
1. Dress Your Baby Lightly
Babies under six months old should be kept out of direct sunlight, as their skin hasn't developed enough melanin to protect them from harmful rays. For babies aged six months and older, it's still advisable to avoid excessive sun exposure. When going out on hot days, use a parasol and a wide-brimmed sunhat to protect their head and neck. Sunglasses can also be worn for added eye protection.
Choose loose, lightweight, and breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen to cover your baby's body. I opt for cotton as it offers more comfort for my children.
» Want more tips on how to keep your baby cool during summer? Find them here
2. Keep Your Baby Hydrated
Fully breastfed babies don't need additional water until they start on solid food, but they may feed more frequently during hot weather. If your baby is between six and twelve months and has started on solids, offer small amounts of water between meals to keep them hydrated and prevent constipation. Your baby can have between 4 and 8 oz of water per day. Offering water in a cup or beaker is advised, but a Calpol syringe can be used as an alternative.
3. Give Your Baby a Cool Bath
After a long, hot day, a cool bath is an excellent way to help your baby unwind. Use lukewarm water or water slightly cooler than their usual bath temperature. Baths have been proven to lower the body’s core temperature, aiding in restful sleep. You can also use towels dipped in tepid water at bedtime. During the heatwave of 2022, my children enjoyed extra splashes in the tub throughout the day.
4. Schedule Extra Naps
Hot weather can make our bodies work harder to keep a consistent temperature, so don't be alarmed if your baby sleeps more during hotter periods of the day. They may be more active during cooler times to compensate for lost playtime.
To keep your house comfortable, use loose cotton vests and rotating fans.
5. Keep Your Baby Out of Sunlight
Babies under six months of age cannot regulate their temperature, so it's best to keep them indoors where you can monitor the temperature. The sun is strongest between 10 am and 4 pm; plan outdoor activities before 10 am or after 4 pm for safer playtime. Use stroller hoods, parasols, and stroller fans for added airflow when using a stroller or trike.
A Safe and Comfortable Summer
Summer is the perfect season for outdoor activities with our children. They can enjoy the freedom of fewer layers, but it's essential to prioritise heat safety. By following these tips, you can ensure a fun, safe, and comfortable summer for your little ones.
For summer walks and outdoor activities, a well-designed stroller trike can make all the difference. One such option, the SmarTrike x Kelly Anna STR7, offers features that help keep your baby cool, such as an adjustable canopy-like hood and optimal airflow between the hood and the seat.
Beyond heat safety, a good stroller trike can also provide visual stimulation, compact storage, and ease of use, ensuring you and your child make the most of your time together during the sunny months. By taking the necessary precautions and investing in products that enhance your baby's comfort and safety, you can create memorable summer experiences for the whole family.
Summer7 Proven and Effective Baby Heat Rash Home RemediesHeat rash, while generally harmless, can cause significant discomfort for your little one. This common skin irritation often appears in heat-prone areas like the neck, groin, elbows, and armpits. If your baby's cherubic smile is replaced with expressions of discomfort due to heat rash, fret not! We're here with seven effective, natural remedies that will soothe your baby's skin and get rid of heat rash quickly.
7 Natural Remedies for Heat Rash
Here are some ways you can alleviate the symptoms of heat rash in your baby:
1. Calamine Lotion for Heat Rash
Calamine lotion isn't just for insect bites and chickenpox; it can also work wonders on heat rash. To apply calamine lotion, shake the bottle and apply some lotion to a cotton ball, then dab the affected areas of your baby's skin. Applying the lotion to a cotton ball allows you to distribute the lotion onto your baby's sensitive skin evenly. Allowing it to dry on the skin enhances its soothing properties. Remember, less is more when dealing with tender baby skin!
2. Hydrocortisone Cream for Heat Rash
Not all rashes are created equal, but hydrocortisone cream isn't picky. This versatile remedy can tackle everything from eczema to nappy rash. Available in cream, ointment, and lotion forms, this powerful cream can soothe irritated baby skin. But remember, it's potent stuff! Consult your doctor before using hydrocortisone cream, especially for babies under 10 years.
3. Oatmeal Bath for Heat Rash
Who knew your breakfast staple could be a skin saviour? An oatmeal bath is a cost-effective and efficient solution for heat rash with anti-inflammatory and anti-itch properties. In addition to being much less expensive than some other options, you may already have enough oats at home, meaning you don't have to spend time getting another solution at short notice. Create a milky bath by sprinkling a third of a cup of oatmeal into the tub. Carefully monitor your baby during bath time to ensure safety.
Does Heat Rash Itch?Yes, heat rash can itch. The itchiness is often due to irritation and inflammation caused by sweat trapped in the skin.
4. Baking Soda for Heat Rash
Baking soda isn't just for your favourite cookies; it can also soothe your baby's skin! This readily available ingredient removes dead cells and unclogs pores, helping clean up heat rash. Mix half a cup of baking soda into lukewarm bath water, creating a relaxing bath for your baby. As always, vigilance during bath time is key.
5. Lanolin for Heat Rash
Derived from wool-bearing animals, lanolin is a potent moisturiser. It keeps skin hydrated, thus preventing the clogging of sweat ducts—a common cause of heat rash. However, babies sensitive to wool might react to lanolin, so consult a paediatrician before application.
6. Coconut Oil for Heat Rash
Coconut oil, with its cooling properties, can effectively soothe heat rash. Being free of chemicals and perfumes, it's safe for your baby's sensitive skin. Simply rub a little oil on the rash until it heals, reapplying throughout the day to keep the skin moisturised.
7. Aloe Vera for Heat Rash
Aloe vera, known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, can do more than just heal sunburns. Whether you use fresh leaf or gel, rubbing aloe vera onto the rash can provide soothing relief, reducing swelling and preventing infections.
» Learn how long your baby should be in the sun for vitamin D
How to Prevent Heat Rash in Babies
While these remedies can provide relief, preventing heat rash from developing is more effective. Achieving this involves a multi-pronged approach:
Keep your baby’s skin dry: Choose a moisturiser suitable for your baby’s skin type to maintain skin hydration without clogging the pores. Before dressing them, ensure their skin is thoroughly dry. A hypoallergenic cream infused with zinc oxide can create a protective barrier on their skin, reducing the risk of heat rash. Notably, diaper cream with aloe vera also works well, especially for nappy areas prone to heat rash.Dress your baby in layers: Dress your baby in a single layer of light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabrics like linen or cotton. These materials allow air to circulate better and cool the skin. If necessary, remove extra layers of clothing to prevent overheating. Always remember, comfort is key!Keep your baby cool: In hot weather, equip yourself with portable fans, stroller fans, or misters with clean water to cool your baby down. Hydrate your baby frequently if they're old enough to drink water. Moreover, avoid exposing your baby to direct sunlight, as excessive heat can lead to heat rash. Refrain from taking your baby for walks during peak sun hours, typically between 10 am and 4 pm, to minimise their exposure to intense heat.
» Find out how to keep the sun out of your baby's eyes
The Best Defence is a Good Offence
While these remedies are handy for those unexpected heat rashes, prevention remains the most effective solution. As an extra step, consider strollers like the 5-in-1 STR3 Folding Stroller Trike, designed with features like a baby leg rest and smart steering mode, ensuring not just comfort but also physical development.
With such proactive measures, heat rash won't stand a chance!
Summer6 Signs Your Baby Is Overheating Whilst Sleeping & What to Do NextAs summer days approach, ensuring your baby stays comfortable and safe in the heat is a top priority for parents. Babies have a higher risk of heat-related problems because their bodies can't regulate temperature well yet. This can cause overheating during skin-to-skin contact or sleeping on your chest. It's important to monitor your baby's body temperature and ensure it remains between 36 and 37 degrees Celsius to prevent dehydration or heat-related illnesses.
While skin-to-skin contact is vital for regulating your baby's body temperature and stabilising their respiration and heart rate, if you notice your baby getting too hot or uncomfortable, take a break and help them cool down.
How to Tell If a Baby Is Too Hot
Overheating can lead to dehydration or heat exhaustion, so it's important to know if your child is too hot. Signs of overheating in babies include an elevated body temperature, fast heartbeat, lethargy, confusion or vomiting, crying, and rapid breathing. However, keep in mind that symptoms of overheating might overlap with those of fever or dehydration.
1. Elevated Body Temperature
A high body temperature is a sign that a baby is overheating.. You can check this by touching their skin and looking for redness in their face. It is also a good idea to examine their back, neck, and chest to ensure they are comfortable. Remember that damp hair and a sweaty back and chest can also suggest overheating, so monitor those areas as well. It is crucial not to use their hands or feet as a guide since they are always cooler than the rest of the body.
2. Fast Heartbeat
As a baby overheats, their body attempts to cool itself off, resulting in an elevated heart rate. If you find your baby's heart rate is faster than usual, this might indicate they are overheating. This is an advanced indicator of overheating, and you must act swiftly to cool down your child.
3. Lethargy
Lethargy is a common symptom of an overheated baby. They may appear unresponsive, with little or no energy when you touch them or try to rouse them. Children may also sleep longer than usual and be difficult to wake. They may not be attentive to sounds and visual cues, indicating that they are too hot. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to take steps to cool your baby down as quickly as possible.
4. Confusion or Vomiting
When a baby is overheated, they can experience confusion or vomiting. They may appear disoriented or even faint and wake up from sleep feeling confused, dizzy, and less animated than usual. Vomiting and feeling nauseous are also signs of overheating, which can lead to dehydration, a particularly dangerous condition for babies.
5. Crying
If your baby is napping in hot weather and wakes up crying, it could be a sign that they are too hot and uncomfortable. Before assuming it is something else, make sure they are clean, fed, and burped.
6. Rapid Breathing
Rapid breathing is a common symptom of baby hyperthermia, as their bodies try extra hard to cool down. Observe your baby's respiration when they sleep on hot days to see if they are breathing faster than usual. If their breathing is faster than normal and their chest feels warm to the touch, they may be overheating. Monitor your baby's breathing and body temperature to ensure their comfort and safety.
What to Do If Your Baby Overheats
If you believe your baby is overheating, here are some steps to cool them down: offer them fluids, move them to a cooler space, remove excess layers of clothing, and bathe them or apply a cold compress. It is critical to act early to avoid more significant health problems.
Offer Your Baby Fluids
Fluids are a crucial part of cooling down an overheated baby. Only breastmilk or formula should be given to babies under the age of 6 months. Offer 4 to 8 ounces of water to babies over 6 months old, and water or extremely diluted fruit juice to babies over 1-year-old. To prevent dehydration, give your baby plenty of chances to drink on hot days.
Move Your Baby to a Cooler Space
If you notice your baby becoming overheated, relocate them to a cooler location to prevent further overheating. This includes closing curtains and blinds during the day to keep the room cooler and moving them to a cooler room or area in the house. If your baby's room is upstairs and is too hot, try transferring them to a lower-level room that may be cooler.
Remove Excess Layers of Clothing
When it's hot outside, it's important to dress your baby in loose-fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs. Cotton and SPF protective clothing are great fabric choices. You might want to remove hats, as babies release heat from their heads and could overheat if they fall asleep wearing them.
Give Your Baby a Bath or Apply a Cold Compress
If your baby is overheated, a lukewarm bath or a cold washcloth on their skin can help reduce their body temperature. Playing in a shaded paddling pool is another excellent way to keep babies cool. Additionally, using a cold, wet flannel to cool your baby down in hot weather is a quick solution.
How to Protect Your Baby From Overheating During Sleep
Some steps must be taken to prevent your baby from overheating while sleeping. First, avoid using loose blankets in the crib, as they can increase the risk of overheating and suffocation. Instead, consider using a lightweight sleep sack or a swaddle blanket that is specifically designed to prevent overheating.
Second, dress your baby in layers so that you can easily adjust their clothing if they become overheated. Choose lightweight, breathable materials like cotton over synthetic items that can trap heat.
Lastly, keep your baby out of direct sunlight, especially during peak hours of the day when the sun is strongest. If you're taking your baby for a walk or stroller ride, make sure the stroller has a shade or canopy to protect them from the sun. By following these tips, you can help keep your baby safe and comfortable during hot weather.
» Find out which stroller to pick for your child based on their age
Keep Your Baby Cool and Comfy This Summer
To summarise, it is critical to recognise indicators of overheating in babies to avoid significant health problems. If your baby naps in a stroller in hot weather, you might want to ensure it has sunshades and proper ventilation.
The 5-in-1 STR3 Folding Stroller Trike is a fantastic choice for summer walks since it has a smooth ride, a UV-blocking canopy, and a reclining seat for resting. You can keep your child safe and comfortable during hot weather with adequate care and attention.
Summer4 Fun Summer Activities to Keep Your Kids Active and EngagedWith summer comes a delightful time for outdoor play and fun. Making a summer bucket list is a great strategy to keep your kids interested and build a sense of anticipation. This can also help your children stay healthy since research shows that British school kids are losing 80% of their fitness due to inactivity during the summer holidays.
A list with various activities will not only curb boredom and offer hours of active entertainment but can also be enjoyed by the entire family. This can maximize physical activity behaviour.
4 Fun Summer Activities for Your Kids
Here are ways to provide your children with amazing experiences that keep them entertained throughout the summer:
Exercise gamesPool activitiesIndoor gamesStroller trike rides
1. Exercise Games
The greatest approach to engage in physical activities for kids is through exercise games. Here are some fun ways to stay active:
Hopscotch: This classic game is a fun physical activity for elementary students to enjoy that helps develop and test fine motor skills. Hopping to the square with an object, stopping, and bending over requires muscle control and coordination.Scavenger hunt: This is a fun physical activity to do alone or with friends. Hiding objects in your backyard or a park and guiding your kids through it with clues can help improve observational skills and encourage collaboration.Water-gun fight: Beat the heat with this summer exercise idea. It's a pleasant way to cool down while participating in active play. Children can enjoy this playful combat with friends or even parents.Tag: As fun exercise games for kids go, tag is simple. Kids can stay moving, make new friends, and practise following rules.
» Want to know more? Learn how summer adventures boost child development
2. Pool Activities
Swimming on the beach or in a pool is an effective way to stay cool. Plus, kids can use their imagination with pretend play. For example, by using plastic or floating toys—like a bucket or pool ring—in the water without focusing on these objects' direct purposes. It is critical to prioritise safety by regularly observing the kids and taking essential precautions.
Some areas of learning that this helps with are:
Water safety through learning to swimSocial skillsMathematical concepts, like volumeScientific concepts, like motion
Tip: Using a kiddie pool as an adaptable, easy-to-clean alternative can also function as a sandbox. Be sure to keep the pool in a shaded area to help protect your children from overexposure to the sun.
3. Indoor Games
When the sun is searing and temperatures are climbing on particularly hot summer days, it's advisable to stay inside where it's cool and safe.
Here are some fun indoor activities that can keep kids happy and involved while offering a welcome break from the heat:
Painting: This allows children's imaginations to bloom since they can experiment with colours, shapes, and textures.Dance party: Dancing is one of the more energetic active inside games to keep kids busy. It helps improve coordination and rhythm.Plasticine: Using plasticine can encourage children's sculpting abilities and creativity to construct infinite shapes, figures, and objects. This flexible modelling substance promotes fine motor skills development and increases hand and finger strength. Jenga: Players take turns removing blocks from a 54-block tower without collapsing it. This is a physical skill game that helps develop hand-eye coordination and strategic thinking.
4. Stroller Trike Ride
Stroller trike rides provide parents with a handy and safe form of transportation for their kids. And the SmarTrike x Kelly Anna stroller trike is a wonderful option for your child to start a summer adventure and assist with motor skill development.
This stroller trike offers features such as:
Parent and child steering mode so your child can take control as they growComfy leg restShock absorbersSun canopyCompact and foldable, making it easy to store or travel with
» Check out these outdoor summer activities for toddlers and parents
Make Summer Fun and Engaging
Summer gives your child tons of time to explore new things. To keep your child engaged, ensure there's a variety of games to enjoy. From basking in the sun while doing pool activities to upbeat dance parties in the cool indoors, your child can learn new skills—like coordination and social interactions—and stay active. You can even get involved with them during scavenger hunts or stroller trike rides.
With hours' worth of activities and games to enjoy, you can make this summer one filled with cherished memories and joyful experiences for the whole family.
SummerHeat Rash (Prickly Heat) in Babies: Symptoms, Prevention & MoreAs summer approaches, the promise of warm weather brings both excitement and certain challenges, especially for our little ones. One such challenge is heat rash, otherwise known as prickly heat or miliaria, a common condition in babies.
Heat rash is a skin irritation caused by blocked sweat ducts, which create small red bumps or blisters on the skin. Infants are particularly susceptible due to their immature sweat ducts. While typically harmless and self-resolving, it's crucial for caregivers to recognize heat rash symptoms and understand how to alleviate them.
Let's go over all you need to know about heat rash in babies, including the best strategies to avoid and manage it.
Causes of Heat Rash in Babies
Several factors can contribute to the development of heat rash. Firstly, a baby's immature sweat glands can retain perspiration, leading to blocked sweat ducts and small, irritating pimples. Also, newborns' skin sensitivity makes them susceptible to rashes, with heat and friction exacerbating the issue. Overdressing or the use of tight clothing can obstruct airflow, trapping heat and increasing the risk of heat rash.
Did You Know?Infants' sweat glands are not fully developed, which can lead to sweat retention and heat rash.
Symptoms of Heat Rash in Babies
Recognising the symptoms of heat rash in babies is critical to tackling the problem as soon as possible. So what does a heat rash look like on a baby's skin? Heat rash often appears as red skin with tiny red bumps or little water blisters in skin folds such as the neck, armpits or diaper area. These bumpy or blister-like forms may irritate, itch, and produce prickly pain in your youngster, causing restlessness and difficulty sleeping.
You may be wondering how long a heat rash on an infant lasts. In most situations, the symptoms of heat rash disappear after 2-3 days. The rash usually goes away in this period with good care and control. Nevertheless, more severe episodes of heat rash can linger for weeks without treatment. If you discover that your baby's heat rash isn't improving or appears to be getting worse, contact the paediatrician who treated your child for advice and further assessment.
» Here are 5 fun outdoor activities to enjoy with your toddler
How To Treat Heat Rash in Babies
When it comes to treating heat rash on your infant, it's vital to realise that it usually doesn't need any special medical treatment. However, there are various ways you may do this at home to give comfort and assist your child in healing.
Avoid applying oils, lotions, or powders to the afflicted areas. These products could block the sweat ducts even more, exacerbating the heat rash. Choose breathable textiles instead, and keep the afflicted regions clean and dry.Allowing your kid to be naked or dressing them in loose-fitting, lightweight clothing will help minimise irritation caused by clothing rubbing against the rash. Air circulation and free movement can help with recovery.Consult your paediatrician about using an anti-itch cream to give temporary relief from itching and discomfort. However, it is critical to follow your paediatrician's advice and suggestions while using such items on your baby's sensitive skin.Layering clothing can trap heat and moisture, causing heat rash to persist. So, choose lightweight, breathable clothing for your infant and avoid unnecessary layering.It is critical for your baby's healing to have a cool and comfy resting environment. Maintain an adequate room temperature and prevent excessive heat or humidity. A lukewarm bath might give relaxing comfort to your infant. After bathing, pat your baby's skin dry gently rather than rubbing it since excessive friction can irritate the problem.
While these home treatments can help relieve the discomfort of heat rash, it's always a good idea to contact the paediatrician for personalised advice and assistance tailored to your baby's individual requirements.
» Here's how you can spot the signs your baby is overheating
How To Prevent Heat Rash in Babies
Preventing prickly heat in infants is critical to keeping their little ones comfortable and happy in hot weather.
First of all, choose the right clothes for your bundle of joy. Choose lightweight, single-layer clothing made from breathable fabrics such as soft cotton. These materials allow air to circulate and prevent excessive sweating, reducing the risk of annoying heat rashes.
When it's hot outside, look for cool, air-conditioned places to hang out with your baby. Creating a comfortable environment with a pleasant temperature goes a long way in preventing heat rash and keeping your baby cool and cosy.
Make your child's bed cool and comfortable. Use breathable bedding and consider using a fan or having the room well-ventilated.
Limit your child's exposure to the sun during peak hours when temperatures are at their highest. Seek shade, schedule outdoor activities during cooler times of the day, and make sure your little one stays hydrated.
When you're on the road, it's important not to keep your baby in a car seat, carrier, or stroller for long periods of time, especially when it's hot outside. These spaces can trap heat and obstruct airflow, leading to increased sweating and a higher risk of heat rash.
By following these simple yet effective tips, parents can greatly reduce the chances of their precious little ones getting prickly heat.
Keep in Mind!Even mild dehydration can contribute to heat rash. Ensure your baby stays well-hydrated, particularly in warm weather.
Enjoy a Sun-Safe Summer
Protecting your baby from heat rash is achievable with awareness and preventative measures. However, if you're looking for products that aid in preventing heat rash, consider the SmarTrike x Kelly Anna stroller trike for your summer outings. Suitable for babies as young as 6 months, this device combines convenience and comfort. Its baby leg rest and sun canopy make it an ideal accessory for sun-safe
SummerHow to Keep Babies Cool in Strollers: 4 Do's & Dont'sLonger days and warmer temperatures must mean one thing, summer’s coming! This season of sunshine and warmth, ice creams, and picnics also brings its own unique challenges, especially for young children. With the excitement of outdoor activities, it's crucial to know how to keep your little ones safe and comfortable in the heat.
Here's what you need to pay attention to when out on a summer walk with your baby in a stroller.
Understanding Overheating in Babies
Can a baby overheat? Absolutely, yes. Overheating in babies is a genuine concern. With their inability to regulate their own temperature, babies can quickly become too hot. Warm to the touch, flushed skin, rapid breathing, heat rashes, and even vomiting can be tell-tale signs of an overheated baby.
What Outdoor Temperature Is Safe for Babies in Summer?Temperatures exceeding 32°C are considered unsafe for young children. It's best to keep them out of the sun between 10am and 4pm when the sun is at its hottest.
How to Keep Your Baby Safe in the Stroller in Hot Weather
Here are some steps to make sure your baby does not overheat in the stroller:
Stay in Shaded Places
Limiting direct sun exposure is key, so it's a good idea to invest in a stroller that has a large canopy for extra UV protection. It's worth noting that using blankets or towels to create shade can restrict airflow and cause the stroller's inner temperature to rise.
How Long Can Babies Be in the Sun?Babies and small children should be in the sun for no more than 60 minutes at a time. Do note that direct sunlight is not necessary to stimulate vitamin D production.
Keep Your Baby Hydrated
While breastfed babies get all the hydration they need from breast milk, they might need to be fed more often in hot weather. Similarly, formula-fed babies may need more bottles. Babies over six months can also sip cooled, boiled water throughout the day, up to 4oz daily. Keeping track of wet nappies and checking their fontanelle can be useful ways to monitor their hydration levels.
You can monitor your baby’s hydration levels by keeping track of the number of wet nappies they have throughout the day as well as checking their fontanelle (the soft spot on the head) to see if it’s sunken or not (sunken usually indicates the need for water).
Scheduled Walks Wisely
It's probably best practice to avoid taking your little ones out during the hottest parts of the day. Opt for early morning or late evening walks to avoid the peak heat hours. Always assess the situation based on your baby's comfort and tolerance. Remember that young children are unable to express whether they feel unwell or overheated, so it'll be up to you to make that call.
» Discover when you can take a newborn outside in a stroller
Use a Stroller Fan
We have learned to appreciate the comfort of a fan blowing a cool breeze around a room on those hot summer days and nights, so why not give your baby the same comfort whilst in a stroller? A battery-operated fan that clips onto the stroller can make a big difference. As a bonus, they aren’t limited to just strollers; they can also be used indoors to keep your tots cool during their naps or through those hot summer nights. Besides keeping your little ones cool, it also serves as a source of white noise and a captivating visual for them.
How to Tell if Your Baby Is Too HotIf a baby is too hot, they will be warm to the touch, have flushed skin, rapid breathing, heat rashes and in some cases, even vomiting (if vomiting, please contact your child’s GP or dial NHS 111 for out-of-hours care).
» Explore fun outdoor activities you can enjoy with your children
Stroller Mistakes to Avoid in Hot Weather
If you are like me and last year’s heatwave was a battle to keep your little ones cool, and you are concerned about whether or not you are doing the right thing—here are some mistakes to avoid when going on walks with your child in a stroller:
Don’t forget about hydration: Babies and toddlers are at a higher risk of becoming dehydrated and overheated for the reasons we've outlined above. So make sure to always have plenty of fluids readily available with you on your walks, not just for your little one but for you as well. Stopping for ice pops can be a great memory, treat and fun way to hydrate. Don’t overdress your baby: You might have those cute outfits ready to show off in the summer sun, but keeping your baby cool is of the utmost importance. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton, bamboo, or linen in light colours to keep your baby comfortable and prevent heat rashes.Don’t cover the stroller with a blanket: While it can be tempting to cover the stroller to block out the sunlight from your baby, it can actually do more harm than good. This reduces airflow, causing the stroller interior’s temperature to rise significantly, putting your baby at risk of heat stroke and even sudden infant death syndrome.Don’t leave your baby in the stroller for too long: Avoid keeping your baby in the stroller for prolonged periods. Regular breaks can help prevent overheating and related complications.
» Discover the signs your baby is overheating while sleeping
Embracing Summer Safely
Summer is indeed a magical time for children, filled with outdoor adventures and the thrill of basking in the sun's warmth. As you navigate this delightful season, remember that the key is balance—enjoying the outdoors while taking precautions to ensure your baby's comfort and safety.
Our SmarTrike x Kelly Anna STR7 is designed with this balance in mind. Its adjustable canopy offers sun protection and airflow, while other features like the 5-point harness ensure optimum safety. Designed for babies as young as six months, this stroller promises to be a trusted companion for your summer escapades. Get ready to make the most of the sun-kissed days ahead!
Summer5 Fun Outdoor Summer Activities for Toddlers and ParentsSummer is a perfect time for parents and toddlers to enjoy outdoor activities that keep children active and engaged while fostering their creativity. Providing your toddler with a variety of creative outdoor experiences is essential for their growth and enjoyment. To make the most of these summer days, always ensure your toddler is protected from the sun with sunscreen, a broad-brimmed hat, and a stroller shade. Additionally, keep them well-hydrated. Here are five fantastic outdoor activities to experience with your toddler this summer.
Here are five enjoyable outdoor activities to help you and your toddler make the most of summer days:
1. Hiking
Hiking is a wonderful way to experience nature and stimulate your toddler's curiosity and sense of discovery. Plan a safe route and allow your toddler to lead at their own pace, engaging with their surroundings in their unique way. Help them identify birds, plants, or rocks, and ensure they stay well-hydrated and protected from the sun throughout the hike. Of course, don't forget to prepare some snacks; chances are, they'll get hungry.
2. Movement Activities
Movement games are essential outdoor activities for toddlers that support the development of motor skills while also providing opportunities for imaginative play and social interaction. Popular movement games include:
Throwing and chasing balls: This activity teaches toddlers how to catch and encourages turn-taking.Yoga: Introduce a few basic poses, such as Downward Dog and Tree pose, to engage your toddler in this mindful activity.Blowing bubbles and chasing them: This fun summer activity encourages physical exercise and helps develop oral motor skills.Tag: Play tag with your toddler once they can run to develop coordination and social skills.
3. Reading Outside
After engaging in physical activities, your toddler may need some downtime. Reading books outdoors provides a calming, enjoyable activity and an opportunity to bond while helping children make connections between stories and the world around them. Find a comfortable spot under a shady tree, lay out a blanket or mat, and enjoy reading together.
4. Digging in the Sandbox
Playing in the sandbox is one of the most popular backyard activities for toddlers. It helps develop fine motor skills while sparking curiosity and creativity. Provide your child with various sandbox toys, such as shovels and buckets, and let them explore and create. Remember to ensure your child doesn't eat or throw sand, and give them a bath after playtime.
5. Stroller Trike Ride
Around 1 to 2 years old, a toddler typically develops the gross motor skills needed to start learning to pedal a stroller trike. Stroller trikes offer an early opportunity to develop these skills and teach children how to pedal, initially with parental control and later in child-control mode. This activity is not only a great bonding experience but also encourages family time outdoors. Pedalling helps strengthen your toddler's leg muscles, essential for walking and running.
The SmarTrike x Kelly Anna STR7 Stroller Trike is designed with innovative features that allow children to keep their feet on the pedals and move the handlebar without actually steering or controlling the wheels. Parents have full control until they decide the child is ready to steer and later pedal independently. Pedalling enhances gross motor skills by developing coordination, endurance, and strength. Visual stimulation is crucial for children, as it promotes brain development and engagement with diverse patterns, boosting learning and focus. The SmarTrike x Kelly Anna STR7 Stroller Trike provides visual stimulation for children and also comes with shades for sun protection.
Embracing the Joys of Outdoor Play with Your Toddler
As your toddler's language and motor skills develop, exposing them to various outdoor play activities can enrich their learning and growth. Include them in everyday tasks, such as sorting laundry or dusting, and engage in meaningful conversations about the world around them. The possibilities for play are endless, so enjoy spending quality time with your child and making the most of the great outdoors.