Some of the best things about living in Florida are the beaches, the crystal clear springs, the heated pools in "winter" and the fact you can enjoy the never-ending warmth of the sun nearly year-round. If you're like most Floridians this won't stop when you welcome a little one to the family.
You're in luck!
We've put together a shortlist of our favorite tips for hitting the beach or pool with an infant so you can continue to enjoy your glow-up year-round.
Let me get the necessary warning out of the way and then we can move on to what you came for! Please, never leave an infant in or near water unattended. It only takes a moment and an inch for a child to drown. Ensure the area where your baby is playing/laying is free of sharp objects or debris they can put into their mouths.
Prepare the Night Before
Breaking up the "chores" of an outing with an infant can make the day more enjoyable. Prepare everything you can ahead of time, like the day before if possible. Cooler items, bottles, water, milk (it doesn't have to be warm and your baby will enjoy the cooler milk on a hot day), bags with clothing (you and infant), towels, life-jacket, float with shade, sunscreen (6 months and older), UV clothing and hat, chair, umbrella, beach toys, and anything else you need or want! Get what you can loaded into your vehicle. Put everything together in the fridge. Freeze some water bottles (remove a few ounces before freezing so they don't overflow) to use as ice packs and to drink as they thaw! This saves time, room, and energy.
Don't Forget the Fan & Spray Bottle of Water
A USB rechargeable fan may be the missing piece to the puzzle. Sometimes there's a nice ocean breeze, other times it feels as though you are standing near a fire. Be prepared by having your fan fully charged and a spray bottle with cool water packed. A spritz here and there on your little one and a fan can help avoid overheating. In my opinion, this is a must-have in Florida, even for a minimalist.
Timing is Everything
Go early in the morning or in the late afternoon when the UV index is lower. Likewise, your little one will likely be in their best mood early in the morning or late afternoon and can enjoy an "oops" nap in the car on the way there or the way home. Get a friend or your partner to drive and you might sneak a little nap in too!
Water Sports Isn't Just for Mama
Florida is hot! While your infant will need to wait several years to enjoy the jet ski, it's perfectly safe for them to enjoy splashing in the water to cool down. One way to do this is to bring a tiny one-ring blow up pool for your infant. If you're setting up on concrete (like at a pool), it may be necessary to put a thick blanket or Pilates mat cut in two sections under the pool for safety. Adding age-appropriate toys for sensory play is great too! Remember the KISS method; keep it simple and safe.
Protect Their Skin, It Only Takes 10!
It only takes 10 minutes for your baby to burn! I recommend using a sunshade that still allows air to flow and an infant sun hat and clothing, including socks, with a UPF of 50+ anytime you will be at the beach or pool with an infant. Don't forget their tiny feet. If you have ever seen a sunburned baby you won't make the mistake twice. It's terrible! They make one-piece and two-piece outfits so diaper changes are a breeze. As for sunscreen you want to be careful what you put onto your baby's skin. Sunscreen isn't safe for infants under 6 months old. Always check labels, do your own research, and discuss what sunscreen may be best for your baby with their pediatrician. As of the date this blog was posted Blue Lizard makes an infant-safe sunscreen that is also safer for marine life and reefs.
A Space Built for a Queen or King
Grab a queen or king-sized fitted sheet and place your things in each of the four corners, pulling the pockets of the sheet up to create a sand-free play area! I know you're thinking I can bring a pack-n-play, and you can, but man this is so much less to bring. so if you don't really need the pack-n-play you can skip it and try this!
Bring a Helper
Do not be afraid to ask for help! Inviting someone to join you on your outing to assist can make it a lot easier if it's the right person. Make sure your expectations are clear. For example, "I would like to do a 2-3 hour beach trip. I need for you to arrive by X time to help load things into the car. I'll also need you to unload, carry, and set-up as many things as is possible so that I can care for (fill in your baby; 'ss name here). I would also like help unloading just the wet things once we get back home around X time. Can you do that?"
If you don't have someone you can ask to help do not be afraid to hire someone to join you. A mother's helper should be able to help load, unload, set-up and break down things. They may not be qualified to keep your little one safe around water (or they may be), but they can certainly help make your outing a lot more enjoyable. Our team loves assisting families on outings, we take the guesswork out of what you get, and we're qualified to keep your little one safe. Don't be afraid to reach out to us! An a la carte 4-hour day shift would be perfect for this exact thing!
Don't Overdo It
Two hours at the beach or pool with an infant may be perfect for your little one, while 4 may be just right for another. Overdoing it can lead to meltdowns (for parents and babies) and may lead to more fear of attempting this in the future. The goal is enjoyment and building confidence.
Shade Wanted
When possible park in the shade or an area that will be shaded later when you return to your vehicle to leave. Crack your windows when appropriate. This will help with comfort upon returning. Living in Florida you are no stranger to hot cars, so getting a jump on the cooling down process is always a bonus! Again, creating shade while at the beach or pool with an infant is a must! Misery starts with no shade!
Wagon & Babywear
Your hands will be full, helper or no helper! I can't stress this enough, even if you don't babywear on daily basis learn to babywear for trips to the beach! Babywearing is quite literally your extra set of hands. Purchasing a foldable wagon with all-terrain wheels will make your entire trek easier. Load your things into a wagon in the order you will unload it. If you are buying a beach chair check out the chairs that are the backpack style. Baby on your front in carrier/warp, chair on your back. Everything else is loaded into the wagon.
Location, Location, Location
Choose a setting where you can easily pull a wagon (boardwalk preferred). One where you aren't miles from your vehicle and that has a restroom would all be beneficial! If there's a place to shower off and change your little one after your time in the sand, that's a huge bonus!! If not, be sure you have a gallon of water in the car to rinse off afterward. At the bare minimum, your feet will need rinsing before driving home. After a day of playing outside, a nice shower, and a fresh diaper, your baby should sleep well. Another expert tip; if you are short on time or don't have access to water baby powder will take that stick sand right off your feet.
Rent a Cabana at the Beach or Pool with an Infant
If you have the option to rent a cabana this could be helpful. This isn't always an option and it doesn't always work in all situations.
Try Again
If at first, you feel the trip to the beach or pool with an infant was a total flop, wait a couple of weeks/months and try again! What your little one enjoys will change from day-to-day and even from hour to hour. Trying an indoor pool is another option that may be more enjoyable for you both. In time you will find your groove and you and your little one will begin to make happy memories. Take notes. What made things easier? What was the most difficult? Adjust and try again! Likewise, you can take a day just for you until you're ready to try again!
Authored by Elizabeth Luke
Elizabeth is the founder and CEO of The Jacksonville Baby Company. With certifications in Postpartum and Infant Care Support, Childbirth and Newborn Care Education, Lactation Support, and Infant Sleep, Elizabeth is a wealth of knowledge and has a heart for helping parents live their best lives while also ensuring their children are safe, happy, and leading the healthiest lives possible! Contact us today for day, night, and live-in support!
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