By Iris Farrou
27 Jul, 2023
Childhood Health, Fatherhood, Lifestyle Tips, New Moms, Parenting, Postpartum, Toddler Health, Your baby's health
are strollers too hot in the summer, Baby, Baby Safety in Summer, how do I keep my newborn safe in the sun, How to keep my baby from overheating, is central AC safe for my baby, keep my baby cool, keep my infant cool, new dads, new mom advice, new moms, newborn body temperature regulation, Toddler, toddler overheating, what clothing is best for baby in hot weather, what time of day is best to go outside during summer with newborn
If you’re spending your first summer with your baby, there are a few things to keep in mind about newborn babies and the summer heat so everyone can remain safe and have an enjoyable summer. Depending on which part of the US you live in or are visiting this summer, keep in mind that the heat may continue into the fall months–or it may be humid heat rather than scorching sun. Either way, the key information to remember is that babies cannot regulate their own body temperatures– older children and adults are able to do so, but babies need extra assistance and protection.
- Overheating is very risky for newborn babies: if you are hot, then your baby is definitely hot as well. It is not unusual or “wrong” to keep babies in either a light onesie or only a diaper.
- Keep the temperature cool: if you have a central AC or a window AC unit and can afford to keep it running to keep the temperature lower than 77F degrees, that is ideal for a baby. Utilizing box fans on your windows for air circulation, as well as ceiling fans, is another method to ensure your baby stays cool.
- Help them sleep comfortably: especially when sleeping, your baby can be only in a diaper or swaddled using very thin, lightweight and breathable material. If you are not using central AC, make sure there is a fan in the room where your baby is sleeping–preferably not pointed directly at them, though.
- Proper hydration: you know that’s true for people of all ages, and the same goes for babies. If you notice infrequent urination or crying without tears, these are signs that dehydration has already occurred. Your instinct may be to give your newborn baby water, but that is a big NO in this case; their bodies cannot process water. Breastfeeding or milk formula in smaller and more frequent doses are a better solution. If your baby is already eating other foods, try to use more hydrating foods in their diet and provide more frequent–but still smaller–meals.
If the outside temperature is above 90 degrees, or 84ish with humidity, this is when your newborn, toddlers, or young children should NOT be outside, especially no more than 15 minutes if you absolutely have to be out. Try to not stay in the heat for too long, and seek shelter in air-conditioned spaces.
If you are using a stroller, keep in mind that it may not be the best idea to go for a walk in the heat—however, you should choose a stroller with a large canopy for extra protection for the warmer months. Avoid going outside in peak heat times of 10am-2pm, and dress your baby in breathable cotton clothing, preferably loose, that covers their skin as much as possible. Wide hats and sunglasses do look adorable on babies, and are also very much necessary.
https://www.michiganmedicine.org/health-lab/how-protect-your-baby-dangers-hot-weather
https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/health-and-safety/how-to-protect-children-from-extreme-heat/
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Coming home from the hospital with your newborn can be as exciting as it can be overwhelming! All the months, or even years, of preparing for this moment are coming to fruition, and the family is ready to welcome the newborn. But perhaps as a new mother you are not prepared for the effect that giving your all to your baby may have on you and your body… like most new mothers, you are aware of the possibility of postpartum depression, changes in your intimate life, and all the challenges the come with adjusting to life after giving birth.
These are just some suggestions of what you can do to take care of yourself during the postpartum period:
- Plan something special for yourself. After being overwhelmed and out of your home, as well as going through labor, it can feel very refreshing to have something special waiting for you: a new pair of socks, your favorite ice cream, or a small cosmetic item.
- Enjoy things that remind you of who you are. In the first few days after giving birth, it can feel as if your whole existence is part of your baby, or that you only exist in relation to your newborn. It is important to find small things that help you invest in yourself as a person, so you can continue the personal growth that will allow you to be the best parent you can. Spend a few minutes reading a book or listening to an audiobook or podcast while doing laundry—you deserve a mental break from being a parent!
- Prioritize rest and relaxation. One of the most common challenges of being a new parent is sleep deprivation, and it can make any situation feel much worse than it is. With a newborn, it may not be possible to sleep through the night. However, you can develop the habit of taking naps whenever possible or trying to carve out some time for a relaxing shower.
- Accept help from others. Though you may feel like a super-mom, you don’t need to be! Friends and family, as well as people who love you, are there for you and your baby. Whenever possible, reach out and ask for help with even simple everyday tasks. Someone helping you clean the kitchen or taking out the trash can feel like a tremendous gift when your days and nights are spent taking care of your newborn.
In addition to these postpartum practices, you may want to consider some self-care items that can help your mind and body feel better and heal. This can be a massage oil to help sore muscles, nipple balm to help you with breastfeeding, a weighted blanket to create calming effects and soothe overstimulated nerves, or a sleep mask to help you snooze during the day. You may also want to consider a neck and back massager or a cozy robe. If you can afford it, this would be an optimal time to hire a house cleaning service as well!
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If you’re spending your first summer with your baby, there are a few things to keep in mind about newborn babies and the summer heat so everyone can remain safe and have an enjoyable summer. Depending on which part of the US you live in or are visiting this summer, keep in mind that the heat may continue into the fall months–or it may be humid heat rather than scorching sun. Either way, the key information to remember is that babies cannot regulate their own body temperatures– older children and adults are able to do so, but babies need extra assistance and protection. 