Keeping babies cool in the heat - lessons from a Dubai mum
How do you keep little ones cool when the heat is relentless? After two years of expat life in Dubai with two small boys, Laura shares the tricks that actually work.
Summer is here - or as "here" as it ever gets in the UK, where every glorious day seems to be followed by three days of solid rain. But maybe you're one of the lucky ones jetting off now the school holidays have arrived, chasing the sunshine we seem to be missing at home?
Having lived in Dubai - which, to paraphrase my husband, is hotter than the sun - I've picked up a few things about keeping babies and toddlers comfortable in serious heat. Whether you're dealing with a UK heatwave or heading somewhere properly hot, these tips should help.
Hydration comes first
No matter how old your baby is (and let's face it, no matter how old they get, they're always your baby), hydration in the heat is essential.
Got a lovely 3-hourly feeding routine going? In the heat, relax and forget about it. Feed on demand, even if that means feeding every hour or every 30 minutes. Breast milk and formula both count - the priority is getting fluids in.
Offer water frequently - don't wait for them to ask. If you've got a fussy one who won't drink water, offer whatever fluid you know will get into them. A hot summer's day isn't always the best time to out-stubborn a stubborn toddler in the water vs juice debate. The toddler will win, and you'll end up stressed, red-faced and hotter than the sun.
Slip, slap, slop
To borrow the classic Australian saying, "slip, slap, slop" isn't just a catchy slogan - it's genuinely good advice for dealing with the heat.
Slip on a shirt
I used to think children walking around in long sleeves in the heat looked slightly cruel. Then I moved to Dubai and finally saw the sense in it. Covering your child's delicate skin isn't cruel - it's protective. Choose lightweight, loose-fitting cotton or linen that lets skin breathe while keeping UV rays off.
Slap on a hat
With younger babies, cherish the stage where they can't take the hat off. Get them used to wearing one early, because once they become older babies and toddlers, it becomes a battle of wills. If you've got a hat-refuser, look for styles with chin ties or a good snug fit. Or, as a last resort, accept that some days the hat will spend more time on the ground than on their head.
Slop on some suncream
There's ongoing debate about suncream on very young babies. Most dermatologists recommend avoiding it where possible and relying on shade and clothing instead. If you do need to use it, choose one specifically formulated for babies and apply sparingly to small exposed areas.
For older babies and toddlers, suncream is non-negotiable - but applying it to a wriggly toddler is a contact sport. Roll up your sleeves, brace yourself and don't forget the easily missed spots: back of the neck, behind the ears, tops of feet and ankles. The last thing you want is a pink, uncomfortable child.
Avoid the midday sun
The old saying about mad dogs and Englishmen exists for a reason. The sun is at its strongest between 11am and 3pm, and if you can, it's best to be indoors during those peak hours. If you're really lucky, you can time a nap over the hottest part of the day so you're inside when the UV is at its worst.
In hotter climates like Dubai, the danger window can start earlier and last longer. Pay attention to the local UV index rather than relying on how warm it feels - UV can be high even on days that don't feel scorching.
Shade is your best friend
When you are outside, shade makes all the difference. Trees, buildings, canopies - use whatever's available. But for prams and pushchairs, a purpose-made sunshade gives you consistent protection no matter where you are or which direction the sun is coming from.
A good pram sunshade should block UV rays, allow air to flow through (so it doesn't create a heat trap) and stay in place without needing constant adjustment. That's especially important when you're already juggling water bottles, snack cups and a toddler who wants to walk but not in the right direction.
Trust your instincts
As with all aspects of parenthood, you know your child best. Where one child might be happy outside in the warmth for an hour, another might only tolerate five minutes. Watch your child, keep offering fluids and if you think it's all getting too much, take them inside. There's no prize for toughing it out.
The heat doesn't have to stop you enjoying the outdoors with your little ones - you just need to be prepared, stay flexible and listen to what your baby is telling you.
