Now that it is finally summer travel season, many families plan vacations at resorts and look forward to playing with their baby in the pool or at the beach. Before you go, make sure your baby is ready for some fun in the water. This is especially true if your baby has never been in the water (other than a bath). While some infants love being in the pool right away, others may be afraid and need time to get used to the water. Ensure that your summer vacation goes smoothly with our tips for getting baby ready for water play!
Take your baby to a local pool or beach before you go on your trip. You'll learn if your baby likes (or doesn't like) the water so you can plan accordingly and will know what to expect on the trip.
Try taking Mommy/Daddy and Me swim classes to get baby used to the water. It's also great for bonding time with baby!
Plan on what kind of swim diapers you'll use on the trip, disposable or non-disposable. Disposables are convenient in that you just toss them after they are used. Non-disposable diapers can be reused which reduces waste and is easy to pack.
Have your baby wear sun protective swimwear like a rashguard with a UPF rating of 30 or higher.
Use water-resistant sunscreen SPF 30 or higher and reapply per instructions, usually every 80 minutes. Many people forget to reapply, so consider setting a timer on your watch or phone to ensure baby's skin doesn't burn!
Pack diapers/swim diapers and baby sunscreen. Keep in mind that some resorts may be in a remote place so diapers and baby sunscreen may not be easy to get outside the resort, especially if you don't plan to rent a car. Plus the resort shops may not carry diapers and baby sunscreen.
Have a hat with a brim to keep the sun out of the baby's eyes and face while playing in the sand.
If your child has a favorite small sand or water toy, consider bringing it if space allows so baby has something familiar to play with.