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baby in tent
Summer is a great time to be outdoors with your family. However, if you have a baby under six months of age, there are certain things to keep in mind when planning a day in the sun. The American Academy of Pediatrics has advised against using sunscreen on babies younger than six months old. Therefore, other precautions should be taken to protect your little one from sun exposure. Here are a few tips.
- Avoid going outdoors during peak hours for sun exposure. Between 10am and 2pm are typically the worst times of day for sun exposure. Plan early morning or afternoon outings.
- Stay in the shade as much as possible when outdoors. Bring umbrellas or tents to the beach to keep baby covered.
- Dress baby in protective clothing. Light-weight clothing should be worn and large brimmed hats to protect baby's head and eyes.
- Put baby in a cool pair of shades. Not only are sunglasses a cute accessory for baby, they can also provide eye protection. Look for baby sunglasses with UVA/UVB protection and have a simple strap to attach them easily to baby's head.
In addition to these tips, make sure that baby also stays well hydrated during hot days. Remember that young babies can't tell you that they are hot or thirsty so keep a close eye on their behavior while spending time outdoors.