|
|
|
|
Aquarium™ Bathtub
Our new tub makes bathing baby a joy at every stage.
|
|
View more |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Home >
Articles 0-12 months
>
Braving the Elements
|
 |
|
Braving The Elements
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
It’s great to get out and enjoy the four seasons with baby. Still, you need to exercise good judgement before braving the elements with a little one.
Summer, spring, winter, fall: Has the mercury soared above 28°C? Has it dipped below freezing? In both cases, avoid going out with an infant. Even in milder temperatures you’re wise to consider how the weather may change. You’ll need to shield your newborn from wind, rain, snow and direct sunlight.
When dressing baby for the outdoors, a good rule of thumb is simply to dress him as you’re dressed. If you’re warm enough in a t-shirt, that’s all he’ll need, too — even tiny babies don’t need heavy blankets on a hot day. If you dress your baby in light layers you’ll be prepared for changes in temperature.
For warm weather, your baby’s clothing should be lightweight and should breathe (cotton as opposed to nylon). Dress your baby in light-coloured, lightweight cotton pants, a long-sleeved top and a wide-brimmed hat or bonnet for protection from the sun.
The hat should be designed to keep sunlight out of baby’s eyes. When you go from the hot outdoors to an air-conditioned room, cover baby lightly with a sweater or blanket to protect against getting chilled.
Check with your pediatrician before using sunscreen on your baby earlier than 6 months of age. After that, be sure to put sunscreen on any time baby will be exposed to sun; consult your physician about what kind to use. No matter what baby’s age is, avoid the summer sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Use a stroller hood or portable clamp-on umbrella when you walk with your baby on a sunny day. Any part of your baby that sticks out — arms or legs, for example — may get sunburned.
If you use a baby carrier, pay extra attention to how hot baby is getting. If your carrier is made of corduroy or other heavy material, your baby may become overheated. Be sure he wears a sun hat and that his arms and legs are covered. Check his neck, back or chest to be sure that he isn’t getting sunburned.
Like you, your baby should drink extra liquids in hot weather. Water, diluted juice or breast milk are good choices. Avoid sports drinks, which are full of sugar and salt.
In cold weather, follow the same rule as in hot: let your own comfort level be the guide. Dress your baby in as many layers as you need to stay warm, and keep a hat on him whenever it’s chilly.
How do you know if baby’s got enough layers on, or too many? Feel the skin on his torso, arms or the back of his neck. If he seems cool, add a layer; if he’s sweating, take one off. Once he’s comfortable, you’ll be able to enjoy your time together outdoors.
On-the-go checklist
Diaper bag basics:
Diapers (10 to 15)
A changing pad
Wipes and ointment or petroleum jelly
Empty plastic bags for dirty diapers
Bib for feedings
Cloths to catch drool or spit-up
An extra outfit for baby in case of spill or accident
An extra outfit for you and Dad (in case baby spills or has an accident!)
In the summer, a wide-brimmed hat for baby, plus sunblock
A few small toys, including a set of plastic toy keys or teething rings and a chewable toy to mouth on during adult meals
Extra formula if you’re bottlefeeding
Sleeping and playing centers:
Portable bassinet or cradlette
Portable activity dome or play yard
A nursery monitor
Baby’s favorite “go to sleep” crib toy or soother
|
|
| Back To Top |
|
|
|
