Aside from the usual things such as sunblock, shades, and towels, here are some summer must-haves that you’ll be glad you brought along!
10 summer must-haves that most parents tend to forget
1. Extra towels
Summer must haves | Photo from: Pixabay.com
Of course you’ll be bringing towels whenever you go to the beach. But make sure to bring a few extra towels just in case. Towels are pretty versatile, you can use them to lay on the sand, to get you dry, and to wipe off sand.
Plus, you can use it as a makeshift shade if the sun gets too hot!
2. An umbrella
Yup, and preferably a big one. Umbrellas are pretty useful in that in case there’s no shade on the beach, or if all the cottages are occupied, you can use an umbrella to keep you and your family out of the sun.
It’s also good to use an umbrella with you if you want to walk along the beach, too much exposure to the sun, even if you use sunblock, can be very dangerous.
3. An extra bag for wet clothes
Having an extra bag for wet clothes helps a lot when it’s time to go home. You don’t want to mix your wet clothes with the other dry stuff in your bag, and there isn’t always time to get your clothes dry on the beach.
Having an extra bag for wet clothes, or even just as an emergency bag, can be pretty handy.
4. Beach toys
Summer must haves | Photo from: Pixabay.com
Always bring a few beach toys so that your kids can have something else to do if they get tired of swimming. A bucket, some plastic shovels and rakes, and even a small water cannon can provide them hours of fun!
It’s also a good way to keep your kids busy so they won’t bother you while you’re relaxing on the beach.
5. Extra clothes
Always bring more clothes than the trip calls for, just in case you might need it. If your kid gets sick on the car, if they spill some food on their clothes, if they accidentally get themselves wet after getting out of the water, all of these situations call for an extra set of clothes.
It’s also a good idea to always bring extra underwear, and extra diapers if you have a baby. Just to be safe from any sudden “accidents”.
6. Sunscreen
It is important to protect your child’s skin from harmful UV rays. Make sure to use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply every 2 hours.
7. Hats and sunglasses
Protecting your child’s eyes and face from the sun is also important. Make sure to pack a hat and sunglasses for them to wear.
8. Insect repellent
Mosquitoes and other insects can be a nuisance during summer, and their bites can be painful and itchy. Make sure to pack insect repellent to keep them at bay.
9. First aid kit
Accidents can happen, so it’s always a good idea to pack a small first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and other basic medical supplies.
10. Wet wipes
These are useful for wiping away sweat, dirt, and grime, and can also come in handy for quick cleanups.
Ways to protect your skin during the summer heat
Here are some ways to protect your skin during the summer heat:
- Wear sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before going outside, and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. This will help protect your skin from harmful UV rays that can cause sunburn, skin aging, and even skin cancer.
- Wear protective clothing: Cover your skin with loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses can also help protect your face, neck, and eyes from the sun’s rays.
- Seek shade: Try to avoid being out in the sun during the hottest part of the day (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.), or seek shade when possible. You can use an umbrella or sit under a tree to help protect your skin from direct sunlight.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and fluids throughout the day to stay hydrated. This can help keep your skin moisturized and prevent it from drying out.
- Use a moisturizer: Apply a moisturizer regularly to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Look for a moisturizer that contains ingredients such as aloe vera, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid, which can help soothe and hydrate your skin.
- Avoid hot showers: Taking hot showers or baths can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and irritated. Try taking lukewarm showers instead, and use a gentle soap or body wash that won’t dry out your skin.
- Be gentle: Avoid scrubbing your skin too hard or using harsh exfoliants, which can damage your skin and cause irritation. Instead, use a gentle exfoliant or washcloth to help remove dead skin cells and keep your skin looking healthy.
Remember to always take extra precautions when it comes to protecting your skin during the summer heat, and don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if you experience severe sunburn or other skin-related issues.
Additional information from Teresa Alcantara
