Keeping Young Children Cool in Warmer Weather: A Guide for Parents

Keeping Young Children Cool in Warmer Weather: A Guide for Parents

As the temperature rises, ensuring that babies, toddlers and young children stay safe and cool is extremely important. Research published by the NCT shows that babies and toddlers are especially vulnerable to the heat because their bodies are not as efficient at regulating temperature as adults' bodies. By understanding the risks of overheating, patents can adopt strategies that focus on ensuring their youngsters will not overheat and therefore be safe in the warm weather.

Why is it important for babies and toddlers to keep cool in summer?

Young children are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke because their bodies cannot cool down as quickly as older children and adults. According to the Department of Health and Aged Care in Australia, babies, in particular, have a high body surface area relative to their size, which makes them heat up more quickly. Their sweat glands are also not fully developed, making it harder for them to cool down through sweating. Overheating in young children can lead to serious health problems. Heat exhaustion can cause symptoms such as heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, and nausea. If not treated promptly, it can progress to heatstroke, a life-threatening condition where the body’s temperature rises to dangerous levels, leading to confusion, seizures, and even unconsciousness. In extreme cases, heatstroke can be fatal. Therefore, keeping young children cool during warmer weather is not just a matter of comfort but a critical aspect of their care.

10 useful tips for keeping young children cool

Here are ten practical ideas that you adopt, whether you are aiming to keeping baby cool in summer or trying to keep toddler cool in heatwave!

• Dress your child in light, breathable clothing: Choose loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made from natural fibres like cotton, which allows the skin to breathe and promotes better air circulation. Avoid synthetic fabrics that can trap heat and moisture, leading to discomfort and rashes. A wide-brimmed hat can also provide shade and protect sensitive areas like the face and neck from direct sun exposure. If your child does begin to feel damp or sweaty, then why not try out Liquid Powder? This talc- and aluminium-free contains over 98.6% natural ingredients, including tapioca starch to absorb wetness and a mild, active ingredient derived from red algae to stop odour forming. Suitable to use from birth, it helps to keep delicate underarms, feet and little creases, dry and fresh.
• Stay hydrated with lots of fluids: Encourage your child to drink water frequently, even if they don't feel thirsty. For babies under six months, breast milk or formula will usually suffice, but you might need to offer feeds more often in hot weather. For toddlers, water is best. You can also offer hydrating snacks like watermelon, cucumber, and other fruits with high water content to help keep them hydrated.
• Create cool indoor spaces: Use fans or air conditioning to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. If air conditioning is not available, create cross-ventilation by opening windows on opposite sides of the room to encourage airflow. Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest part of the day to block out direct sunlight. You can also set up a cool play area with toys and activities to keep your child entertained indoors.
• Take advantage of early mornings: Ask any parent of a young child and they will most likely tell you, their youngster is up with the larks! So why not make the most of their early rising and plan outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening when the sun is less intense. Remember most playparks are open 24/7! Avoid going outside during peak heat hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. During these times, the sun’s rays are strongest, increasing the risk of sunburn and overheating. If you do need to go out, seek shaded areas and take frequent breaks in cool spots.
• Use sunscreen effectively: For children older than six months, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to all exposed skin areas. Reapply every two hours or more frequently if your child is sweating or playing in water. For babies younger than six months, keep them out of direct sunlight as much as possible and use clothing and shade as the primary means of protection. If necessary, apply a small amount of sunscreen to exposed areas like the face and back of the hands.
• Keep your car cool: Never leave a young child in a parked car, even for a short period, as temperatures can rise rapidly to dangerous levels. Before putting your child in their car seat, cool the car by opening windows or using the air conditioning. You can also cover the car seat with a towel or cloth when the car is parked to prevent it from becoming too hot. Consider using a sunshade to block out direct sunlight from the windows.
• Offer cool baths: A cool bath or splash in a kiddie pool can help lower your child's body temperature. Always supervise water play to ensure safety. You can also use a damp washcloth to wipe down your child’s face, neck, and arms for a quick cooldown. If your child resists baths, you can turn it into a fun activity by adding toys or letting them splash around, making it both a refreshing and enjoyable experience.
• Provide cooling accessories: Consider using cooling towels, fans, or ice packs wrapped in a cloth to help your child stay cool. Cooling towels can be placed around the neck or on the forehead for quick relief. Also, why not refrigerate your child’s moisturiser for a cooling treat? Our fragrance-free moisturiser features antioxidant-rich, wild-grown British hawthorn berries, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, cold pressed golden jojoba seed oil and shea butter to hydrate even the most sensitive skin.
• Monitor for signs of overheating: Watch for symptoms of heat-related illness, including flushed skin, excessive sweating, irritability, rapid breathing, and a hot feeling to the touch. If your child shows signs of overheating, move them to a cooler place, remove excess clothing, and offer fluids. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention immediately. It’s important to trust your instincts; if something seems off, it’s better to err on the side of caution.
• Be careful with sleeping arrangements: The Lullaby Trust indicates that the ideal temperature of a baby’s room should be 16-20°C to reduce the chance of SIDS. To prepare your child’s cool and comfortable sleeping environment, use lightweight bedding, such as a cotton sheet, and avoid heavy blankets. If it’s very hot, your child might only need to sleep in a nappy and sleeping sack. A fan in the room, placed safely out of reach, can help keep the air moving and create a cooler sleeping environment.
• Keeping young children cool during warmer weather is vital for their health and well-being. By following these tips, you can ensure your child remains comfortable - and happy - even on the hottest days. So why not put together a summer SOS kit filled with everything your child could need on a hot day (including our brilliant skincare products!) so you are both ready to embrace the summertime together!