With summer right around the corner, you’re probably itching to get outside with your baby. After all, fresh air and sunshine provide your little one with much needed vitamin D and stimulation. But it’s also important to keep your baby safe and protected from the sun. If your little one isn’t quite ready for sunscreen or unable to wear it, there are other ways to help keep their skin safe and healthy.

Accessorize

Those floppy sun hats for your infant aren’t just adorable but they’re actually functional too. Dressing your infant in protective hats and clothing is one of the first lines of defense against sunburn and sun exposure. Protect your baby’s head by investing in a wide-brimmed sun hat. Try finding a hat that also has back flaps to protect your baby’s neck. When it comes to protecting your infant’s skin, loose fitting and lightweight clothing is the best option. Be sure the clothing you choose is light in color. This helps to reflect the sun, rather than absorb it like darker clothing will. Choose clothing that is tightly woven. You can test this by holding your baby’s clothing up to the light. The less light you see coming through, the more tightly it’s woven. This means it will let in less sunlight. Many infant bathing suits and swim shirts offer UVB and UVA protection. The fabric is designed to reflect the sun’s rays and prevent absorption. Lastly, if your infant will keep them on, try a pair of UV-protective sunglasses. These are not only effective in keeping your baby’s eyes and face protected but they’re stylish too!

Strollers

One of the most practical ways to protect your infant from the sun is to invest in a stroller that provides ample coverage. Most strollers already come with a large overhang to help shield your infant from the sunlight during walks outdoors. One of the reasons for this is to prevent the sunlight from waking your child during those precious nap times. But these covers also help keep your baby shaded and their skin protected. Many jogging strollers come with covers that overextend, covering the baby’s entire body. A lightweight blanket is a great addition as well and can be used to cover any exposed skin.

Tents

If you’re planning a day at the beach, there are a wide variety of small tents to help keep your baby protected from the sun. Not only do these small tents provide sun protection but they’re also extremely comfortable. The smaller versions are perfect size for your infant to nap in and offer a padded bottom for comfort. If you’re looking for something with a little more room, invest in a larger tent that offers both coverage and ample space for baby to crawl around and play. These tents are easily portable, which make them perfect for the beach, park, and other outings. Your infant will feel part of the action, as family and friends can sit down beside the tent and interact with their little ones. Most tents are equipped with mesh material on the top and/or sides for breathability and easy access for nearby parents.

Don’t Let Summer Keep You Inside!

Just because your infant isn’t ready for sunscreen doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy the gorgeous summer weather. Use these easy tips to help keep your baby’s skin safe while still allowing them to enjoy fresh air and family fun.