There is nothing quite like a family day trip to the beach. Sun, sand, sea and fun makes for an exciting day for kids and adults alike.
 
If you have a small baby you may be wary of this seemingly harmless daytrip to the beach. What do you actually need and what might you like to have? How do you fit your baby’s routine around a full day at the beach and is it even possible?
 
As with anything you plan for you and your baby, organisation is key. There are some things that need to be sorted out and planned so that your baby’s day goes smoothly; these are sleep, feeding and changing.
 
Once these three elements are sorted, you’ll be able to have a full day at the beach.
 
Sleep
If you live or are staying close to a beach, it may be possible to plan your trip around baby’s nap times. More often than not this isn’t possible.
 
To ensure your baby gets the sleep he will need so as not to get cranky, try set up an area of shade such as a sun tent laid with towels or blankets and baby will nod of if he gets tired. Alternatively you could bring a bouncy chair for baby to rock himself to sleep.
 
It may be hard to get baby to sleep in a strange new environment but if the right conditions are there, he’ll be asleep in no time.
 
Feed
If you are breastfeeding all you’ll need is a little shade to ensure no sand flies at you while feeding and you are good to go.
 
If you are using formula you will need to pack some with you and prepare it for baby at the beach. You could also bring along some cartons of ready-made formula.
 
If baby is on solids then pack some away with you and bring lots of little snacks baby can have throughout the day.
 
Changing
Make sure you bring lots of extra clothes for baby in case there are any nappy accidents.
 
Bring lots of nappies and wipes as well as a bag you can put the used nappies into to dispose of at your convenience.
 
Once these elements are organised, you can get thinking about the other important factors such as sunscreen and safety. Make sure you test your sunscreen on baby before the trip in case he is sensitive to it. Always use a high factor and apply thickly over baby’s delicate skin, reapplying every few hours according to the instructions. Put a wide brimmed hat on baby to keep the sun out of his eyes and some sunglasses to keep any sand from going into his eyes. 
 
If baby is less than 6 months it is best to keep him out of the sun and in some cool shade. Otherwise, restrict the amount of direct sun your baby gets by using windbreakers or a sun tent.
 
Bring a bouncer or a seat for baby so he can see what is going on when he is not content to lay on his back.
 
Bring lots of toys to keep baby occupied and entertained. 

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