BABIES are crying. It’s just a fact of life. Sometimes there is a clear reason for the crying and sometimes it just seems to come out of nowhere.
One thing for sure; no parent wants to give their little one something extra to cry about.
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This is why managing your baby’s temperature in this heatwave is essential for their comfort and your sanity.
But if you do not know where to start, do not panic, the experts are at hand with their best tips to keep babies cool.
The high temperatures of a heat wave can make babies feel irritable, uncomfortable and can even make them vulnerable to dehydration.
But there are a number of things parents can do to help their little one stay cool.
Dr Sharryn Gardener, pediatrician and clinical counselor, told Good To Know: “Parents should not panic immediately if their babies or children get hot and bothered on hot days – it can often be easily fixed.
“However, the most important thing is to know how to prevent things from getting serious, how to detect the signs of dehydration or heat stroke, and to act quickly if they occur.”
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First, it is important to make sure your baby has all the fluids they need.
Dr Sharryn said: “On a very hot day, babies may need as much as 50 percent more breast milk – so make sure they have plenty of opportunities to drink.
“If they have formula feeds, they can be offered small amounts of cooled boiled water on top of normal feeds.”
It is important for breastfeeding mothers to also stop the fluids by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Be on the lookout for signs of dehydration in your toddler, this may include a dry mouth, fewer tears when crying, fewer wet diapers (less than six a day) and little energy.
Always contact your doctor immediately if you are concerned about your child’s health.
A soothing cold flannel can also help cool your child
Phoebe Davenport, founder and consultant at Oakleaf Private Childcare, said: “If your baby or toddler overheats, try wrapping a few ice cubes in a muslin square and use them to cool your baby in their crib or stroller.
“Jojo Maman Bebe has extra large muslin blocks which is great for this as it creates an extra layer between your baby’s skin and the ice pack. You can then put it in your baby carriage and it is wonderful to use at home on a warm night in their crib. ”
Another way to lower your baby’s temperature is to run a cool bath for them.
It is ideal for helping them to relax before bedtime, it helps to lower their body temperature and put them to sleep.
Choosing the right clothes for your child is also essential to help them not overheat.
Dr Sharryn said: “Wearing the right clothes is key. Loose fitting clothes that cover their arms and legs are best.
“Breathable materials such as cotton are recommended and you can also get SPF-protective clothing in some stores.
“Baby sunglasses with wide brims (or those with neck flaps) with air holes are also very important, as are sunglasses.”
The pro also advised that if you are worried that they are overheating, there is nothing wrong with taking their clothes off completely and having them in a shade with just their cloth.
At night, it is the way to keep your child relaxed in bed to keep light loose layers on your child.
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