Why are babies especially at risk in summer?

The three biggest dangers for babies in summer are sunburn, dehydration, and overheating. All three can become dangerous if early signs go unnoticed – be a little more cautious with the sun and watch your baby's behavior.

• Sunburn: We all know that UV rays can damage our skin. A baby's skin is much thinner than that of children and adults, and its natural UV protection is barely developed. Therefore babies have hardly anything to protect them from the sun. In your baby's first year, you should avoid direct sun completely. Baby sunscreen with a high SPF protects the skin, but is more suitable for somewhat older babies.

• Dehydration: Because of their small body size, babies dry out quickly. Therefore, in summer make sure they have regular fluid intake. For exclusively breastfed babies you don't really have to worry – your child gets enough fluids from breast milk. On very hot days they will probably drink small amounts more often. Babies who are already eating solid foods should be offered water or unsweetened teas repeatedly.

• Sunstroke: Babies cannot regulate their body temperature properly yet, and they have hardly any protective hair. High temperatures and direct sunlight can quickly lead to heat buildup or a dangerous sunstroke. If you want to go outside with your baby on hot days, it's best to do so in the morning and around evening: loose, lightweight clothing and a sun hat are of course mandatory – even in the shade.

SOS – how to act at signs of sunstroke

Massive exposure to the sun can raise the temperature of the brain. The result may be a sunstroke. Typical signs of sunstroke are:

• Bright red face

• Marked restlessness and crying

• Fever

• Cool skin

• Vomiting

• Apathy or unconsciousness

A sunstroke is not a trivial matter, not for adults and certainly not for babies. Therefore: always take precautions and at the slightest suspicion of sunstroke go to the pediatrician or hospital immediately!

Protection from insect bites

We've got the sun under control – what about insects? Since babies' immune systems are still underdeveloped, mosquito or wasp stings can sometimes trigger severe reactions. Tick bites carry a high risk of infection and are not immediately noticeable. It's best to provide a Insect net for the stroller and the baby crib in place. Especially in forests and near lakes you should dress your baby in long clothing to avoid bites.

The most important rules for the hot season

• Avoid direct sun: Babies should ideally spend their first summer completely in the shade. This is not always possible – but avoid direct sun as much as possible and think of sun protection for the stroller and garden.

• Offer enough to drink: Water and diluted teas are optimal to meet the increased fluid needs. The drinks should not be ice-cold – and don't hesitate to be a little pushy with bottles or sippy cups.

• Stay indoors at midday: Spend the hot midday hours with your baby preferably indoors – a good opportunity to recharge during a midday nap.

• Never without a hat: Newborns should also wear a light cap in summer – for older babies a sun hat or scarf is mandatory to protect against sunburn and heatstroke, but also against drafts.

• Adjust clothing: Light, loose clothing made from natural materials is ideal – preferably in the tried-and-true 'onion look' (layering), which prevents heat buildup. With particularly tightly woven UV-protective clothing, your baby is fully protected. Especially at night you should dress your child more lightly so they can sleep peacefully.

• Caution in the car: Never leave your child alone in the car in summer (not even for minutes). Don't turn the air conditioning down too much, as there is a risk of colds.

• UV protection even on overcast days: For somewhat older babies you can use special baby sunscreen with a high SPF, for example when you are at the beach or in the park.

Summer must-haves:

This is part of your baby's basic summer kit

• Sun hat – preferably with ties to knot

• Short-sleeved bodysuits and little shirts made of thin cotton

• Sunshade for the stroller

• Insect net for the stroller

• Sun umbrella or sunshade for garden and park

• Drinking bottle, appropriate to your baby's age

• Mosquito net for the baby crib

• Terry cover for the infant car seat, alternatively a towel or cloth diapers

• If necessary, a lighter baby sling than the winter one

• A shallow paddling pool as soon as your baby can sit up securely – only under supervision!

Image credits:

Mother feeding baby © New Africa – stock.adobe.com

Family pushing stroller © New Africa – stock.adobe.com