Baby's First Summer

Thanks to our friends at Patients Like Me for this great tip article on how to care for your baby this summer!

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If you’re a first-time mom heading into summer with a newborn or infant, I am sure you have a lot of questions. Is it too hot to walk? Can I use sunscreen yet? Why is my baby nursing more than usual? 

Whether your baby is a few weeks old or starting to sit up and grab your sunglasses, this season brings a new layer of learning. Honestly, it can feel like a lot especially when you’re already adjusting to life with a baby. Babies under 12 months are sensitive to the heat, and understanding how summer weather affects their body, skin, and feeding needs can help you feel more confident and prepared. 

How to Summer With a Baby at Every Stage

There are a few potential risks that excessive warmth poses for little ones. While we might enjoy soaking up the sun, newborns have developing regulatory systems that are vulnerable to the effects of high temperatures. This means they have a limited ability to regulate their body temperatures which makes them more susceptible to overheating and other heat related illnesses. Be incredibly mindful of your little one’s limits.

For babies born September - December (Now 6-9 months)

These little ones have been bundled up all winter and are ready to experience their first hot summer day. As they are becoming more mobile they’ll want to explore but they aren’t ready for too much direct sunlight. They can begin to wear sunscreen as an added layer of protection but it is suggested that you stick with a mineral based sunscreen. If they have started crawling, you can get them started in swim lessons. Once they know how to float, this not only helps keep them cool but you can take them to the river or pool. 

For babies born January - April (Now 3-6 months)

At this age, babies are more alert but still too young for sunscreen. They need to be kept out of direct sun and held close. It can be tricky to keep them cool when they are pressed up against you, so consider a mesh carrier to help keep things cool. To stay active and give your baby time outside, you can go on daily walks. Be mindful of the hottest periods of the day, between 12pm-3pm, so you both don’t overheat. 

For babies born May - August (Now newborn - 2 months)

Newborns don’t sweat effectively and are the most susceptible to heat related illnesses like dehydration, skin rashes, and heat exhaustion. They need cool, shaded environments and frequent feeding. Since newborns can’t have water they are relying on you to breastfeed or formula feed them to stay hydrated. It’s important that you stay hydrated as well so keep a water bottle with you and sip all day. Aside from staying in cool, shaded areas you can dress your newborn in cool attire. Think about hats with neck flaps or light cool long sleeves to protect their skin from the UV rays. Anything to keep your baby shaded will help. 

No matter your little one’s age, their first summer will be a memorable one. Live in the moment and capture a photo or a memory of their many firsts like, their float, their first time in the grass, or their first walk and experience with all the sounds of the outdoors. 

FAQs

How do I dress a newborn in summer from the hospital?

Light, cool clothing to protect their skin without overheating them. You need to keep them away from direct sunlight. 

How do I keep a newborn cool in hot weather?

Shade and cool environments are your best bet! Travel with an umbrella to ensure you have shade wherever it is you go. Since newborns can’t drink water, you’ll want to keep up with breastfeeding or bottle feeding so they can be cool internally too. 

How do I keep my infant cool in a stroller?

Stroller fans are a favorite among moms and if you can pair it with a wet bandana, you’re all set! 

What do I do if my baby gets stung by a bee?

If your child gets stung, remain calm and do what you would do for yourself. Remove the stinger, clean up the area with soap and water, and use ice to help with the swelling. If your child has an allergic reaction, take them to the doctor. Try your best to stay away from bees in general and remove any attractors like sugary or salty foods. 

Is it safe to have a baby nearby a bonfire?

Try and keep babies away from bonfires. Generally speaking they shouldn’t be close to them and opposite of the smoke direction, this way you don’t feel any of the heat. 

Should I worry about seasonal allergies or being sensitive to pollen or grass?

Experts say that infants, especially if it's a baby’s first summer, haven't spent enough time outdoors to develop reactions to pollen or grass. Typically it requires around two or more consecutive seasons of exposure to develop environmental allergies. However a study did show that pollen exposure is associated with risk of respiratory symptoms during the first year of life. Since their lungs are still developing, over exposure of pollen increases the risk of childhood asthma.

How do I change a diaper on a plane?

There are changing tables in the bathrooms. They are typically folded into the wall above the toilet. 

Can you still have fun in the summer with a newborn?

There are plenty of ways to keep your summer plans fun with a newborn. Remember that traveling or any activity is different with a little one that is dependent on you versus the times you only had to worry about yourself. Activities during the cool parts of the days like morning and evening are your best times to plan activities. Many moms have shared that your first few months will be exhausting so staying indoors and getting sleep when you can will sound like the most fun.

I don’t have AC in my home, what do I do?

Making a room cool without AC is a challenge but not impossible. You can use a fan but be sure to not point it directly on your baby. If the bedroom has windows, keep them covered with blackout curtains or cardboard. Dress your baby appropriately with lightweight blankets or onesies. Most importantly, keep them hydrated by staying on a frequent feeding schedule.  There are two big signs of dehydration; crying with no tears and infrequent wet diapers. 

Keeping Up with Feeding Needs in the Heat

Remember to keep yourself hydrated so you are cool and comfortable. Hot weather can affect your supply, your baby’s feeding habits, and even your comfort during nursing. A lactation consultant can offer tips on staying hydrated, nursing in the heat, pumping while traveling, and making feeding more manageable.