How to Enjoy Warm Weather with a Newborn

Ah, summer: a time for backyard barbecues, beach trips and carefree days by the pool. At least, that’s what summer used to mean before you became a parent to a tiny newborn. Now that you have a baby in the picture, you may be scratching your head wondering how you can safely enjoy the warm weather and sunshine with your sweet little one.

Babies, particularly newborns, have delicate skin and can’t regulate their core body temperatures as well as adults can. Therefore, it’s important to keep your newborn out of direct sunlight and dress them in the right infant clothes during the warmer months.

Don’t worry! Keeping your little one comfortable in warm weather isn’t as complicated as it seems. Read on for tips on how to safely enjoy the warm weather with your baby—plus, a few of our favorite summertime activities for young babies.

Also Read: Your Life Changes in Many Ways When You Have a Baby

Tips for Keeping Your Newborn Comfortable in the Heat

Spending time outside is good for both you and your baby. But when the mercury begins to rise, it can be confusing to know how to keep your baby comfortable in the summer heat.

Remember that if you’re too hot, chances are your baby is hot as well. Here are a few tips to follow to keep your little one comfortable in the summer heat:

• Look for protected spots with plenty of shade. If you’re going to the beach or another area without shade, bring a tent or an umbrella to shield your baby from the sun.
• Schedule your outdoor activities wisely, especially on ultra-hot days. Try to avoid going outside between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. when the sun’s UV rays are at their hottest. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, babies under six months should not wear sunscreen unless there is no shade or protective clothing available.

  

• Attach a portable fan to the baby’s stroller to help keep your little one cool during your summer strolls.
• Dress your baby in lightweight garments, such as Onesies Brand Bodysuits made from 100 percent cotton. Famously breathable and super-soft, cotton is an excellent choice for newborns and is widely-loved by parents.
• Add protective accessories to your baby’s outfit, such as a wide-brimmed hat and baby sunglasses with UV protection. Get your baby used to wearing these items from an early age.
• Bring blankets for layering. If you dress your baby for a warm day, keep a lightweight, muslin blanket in your stroller or diaper bag just in case it gets unexpectedly chilly.
• Choose a summer-friendly baby carrier made from a lightweight fabric, such as nylon.

Outdoor Summer Activities for Newborns

You’ve been itching to go outside and get some fresh air. But with a newborn in tow, where do you even begin? Below, here are some of the best summer activities that you can do with a newborn.

1. Bust out the kiddie pool. Kiddie pools are a summertime essential for any new parent. When you’re too tired to take the baby to the beach, you can simply take a quick dip in the pool with your little one. And once your baby gets older, they can splash in the pool by themselves in their adorable baby swimwear. (with you supervising, of course).

   

2. Blow some bubbles. Bubble-blowing is a fun and affordable activity that is sure to mesmerize your little one. Plus, it doubles as a form of sensory play!
3. Take a nature walk. Tired of taking the same walk around your neighborhood? Switch it up by taking the baby on a walk through the woods or a local park.
4. Listen to music outside. Did you know that playing music can help improve your baby’s speech sound processing? Jumpstart your little one’s language skills by taking them outside and playing your favorite tunes while gently bouncing them around.
5. Have a picnic in the park. Pack a baby blanket and stake out a shaded spot under a tree. Enjoy your snacks while the baby watches the fluttering leaves above.
6. Take story time outside. It’s never too early to start reading aloud to your baby. To make story time even more special, read to your baby in the great outdoors.
7. Head to the farmers market. Need to stretch your legs? Wear your baby in a sling and visit the farmers market. Your baby will be fascinated by all the unique sights and sounds.

Indoor Summer Activities for Newborns

Too hot to be outside with the baby? Don’t worry because there are plenty of indoor activities you can do to keep your little one moving, learning and exploring. Here are a few indoor activities that you can do in the comfort of your own living room:

1. Bring your kiddie pool inside. Give your baby a rich, sensory experience by converting the pool into a baby playpen or a ball pit.
2. Have a DIY photoshoot. Dress your little one up in cute baby clothes and take precious pictures of your baby.
3. Play in the bathtub together. Foster a love of water in your baby with fun bath time activities and cute hooded towels. Sing to your baby as you bathe them, break out the bath toys and get in the tub with them for some skin-on-skin contact.
4. Read with your baby. The wonderful thing about reading is that you can do it just about anywhere, including an air conditioned house!
5. Visit the aquarium. Aquariums are temperature-controlled, making them a great way to beat the summer heat with your little one. Your baby will love watching all of the colorful sea creatures swimming around inside their tanks.
6. Help your baby cool down with an ice sensory activity. This ice sensory activity might just be the easiest sensory activity you’ll ever make for your baby. All you need is a bowl and some ice cubes—that’s it!

Make the Most of Summer with Your Newborn

If you’ve been feeling a bit stir-crazy lately, it’s time to scoop your little one up and head outside. Whether you’re playing in the backyard, enjoying a picnic at the park or simply taking a stroll around the neighborhood, the fresh air will do you and your baby good!