For infants/babies:
- The key to having fun at the beach with infants is keeping them cool and out of the sun, so a Umbrella or Beach Tent is a must have. This tent is easy to carry and set up.
- A sun hat is a must to help with protecting babies head, face and neck. Seasoned mom tip: these ones actually stay on!
- These swaddles are an all around multipurpose workhorse; use them for a burp cloth, light blanket, beach blanket, towel, sun cover, nursing cover and even a quick sarong for mom!…the list goes on and on…muslin is the best for summer as it stays cool. {They can also be bought locally at Clementine (in store or online)!}
- If you had to plan your trip around all your kiddos nap times you wouldn’t be able to stay for more than an hour at a time. Instead, try putting your baby in a carrier, like the Baby Bjorn or Ergo, and treat them (and yourself) to a nice stroll along the water. Once the baby is asleep have them nap on a blanket in the shade while the rest of the family enjoys the sand and surf.
For toddlers/preschoolers:
- First on our packing list…Snacks, snacks and more snacks! What is it about being outside that makes kids ravenous? Although everyone always loves those little orange fish crackers, our favorite {healthier} snack is yogurt sticks. Throw them in the freezer the night before and they’ll cool down the kiddos on a hot day, plus you don’t have to worry about them spoiling in the heat.
- Ditch the disposable swim diapers and try out these; they do their job without bulk and look adorable!
- This toy makes digging a breeze!
- For new swimmers, try the puddle jumper; it gives kids confidence to float and puts them in the proper swim position. Bonus: it’s also coast guard certified as a life jacket, a bonus for boat trips.
- Applying sunscreen is our least favorite part of summer, so our kids wear a rash guard shirt with UV protection to cut down on the application area.
- Here’s a neat trick for getting damp sand off little fingers and toes when it’s time to head home. Who knew baby powder was such a useful tool?
And of course, don’t forget the camera! Keep your phone or camera safe from water and sand by investing in a waterproof case.
What’s on your “must have” list for the beach?