Sun Safety For Summer Fun With Infants

Summertime is a fun time for the whole family. Nursing mothers need to have fun too. We can not stay at home while the rest of the family goes to the beach and pool. There are certain precautions we need to take in order to keep our newborns safe from the UV rays of the sun and keep ourselves protected and discreet while nursing in the sun and in public.

For one, we need to prepare for where we are going. If we are going to the beach with no sun protection built in, we need to take an umbrella and possibly a pop up tent as well. Depending on how old your nursing infant is, you want to choose a tent that is appropriate. Newborns can sleep the beach day away in a small pop up tent that closes on all sides with screening and made with UV protective fabric. These tents are small and made by Fisher Price or similar companies. Older infants that are mobile need a half tent so they can see their environment and have some room to roll around during naps.

If you put down a large blanket and use the umbrella and tent you have now created a playing oasis for your baby and you have a quiet private area to nurse as well. Wear your nursing swimwear or a nursing tank top and you will be all set for the day.

If you are going to the community swimming pool, you can still wear your nursing clothing, but they may have umbrellas already installed so that would eliminate needing to take along that extra gear. You may still want to take some UV clothing or towels, hats or small tent depending on the age of your baby.

You want to make sure you take a few extra sets of clothes, swimsuits, and dry towels to help avoid any skin irritations from sitting in wet clothing. Babies have very sensitive skin and need some extra precautions. At the beach it is impossible to avoid getting sand in the diaper area and that too could cause irritation so just be aware of that and change as often as possible.

The most important thing to remember is the sun screen. Put it on generously and often. Make sure to test a small spot on your infant's leg the day before to assure that he is not allergic to that particular product. You will want to use something specifically for babies in a SPF of 50 or 70 or higher. There are also sticks available for easy application on the face. Most experts will say to apply at least every two hours even if it is waterproof.

Having fun in the sun is a must do for the whole family as long as we all know how to do it safely!

Maggie H. Day writes articles related to nursing tank and nursing swimwear. We are a maternity and nursing clothing website specializing in soft, comfortable, stylish clothing and accessories for pregnant and nursing women. Visit our website to shop for yourself or find gifts for a friend!