You asked us: Is my baby ready...
Expert: Umberto Cellupica is a paediatrician with a community practice in Maple, Ont. He is also a staff paediatrician at York Central Hospital in Richmond Hill.
...to be exposed to the sun?
Sun exposure is healthy for all of us, including babies. The key is to be mindful of the UV (ultra-violet) index. Infants (as well as children and adults) can burn in just 15 minutes, depending on the UV. "Babies and small children are more susceptible to heat stroke and sunburn, so short exposure to sunlight and plenty of shade is recommended," Cellupica says. To play it safe, dress your baby in a hat, lightweight pants and shirts with long sleeves.
...to be outside in the summer heat?
It's perfectly fine to take baby out for a walk in the hot summer sun. (After a long, snowy winter, you've earned the beautiful weather!) Just be sure to dress your wee one in a hat and lightweight clothing and make sure she has plenty of shade. Cellupica suggests babies shouldn't be outdoors in temperatures above about 35 degrees Celcius. He also reminds parents to pay attention to the air-quality index. "Generally speaking, when it is very hot, the air-quality index is poor and it is recommended that babies stay indoors," he says. And don't forget to offer liquids frequently; water should be given to older kids and breastmilk or formula to infants who haven't been introduced to water.
...to wear sunscreen?
Be sure to apply sunscreen to your babe (six months or older) before you head outdoors. It's best to look for products with a high SPF value. The best way to make sure your little one's sensitive skin is protected from the rays is to keep him out of direct sunlight. Don't forget his hat and lightweight outfits. Check out our health and safety section for more information. You'll want to look for products with an SPF of 30 or higher.
...to wear bug repellent?
Research shows that DEET (the ingredient in the most effective bug repellents) is safe for babies from six months and up once a day. Insect sprays are important to reduce the risk of bites, including the possibility of contracting West Nile virus from mosquitoes. Cellupica suggests applying it once per day to kids younger than two years old. Other ways to keep babies and toddlers bug-bite free are to dress them in protective clothing, limit the time they spend outside at dusk and dawn and use insect netting over strollers and play areas.
...to be in an air-conditioned environment?
While air conditioning is safe for babies of any age, it's best for your wee ones (and older kids) for the temperature to be comfortable and not too cold. Air conditioning does tend to dry out the environment so be sure to moisturize your baby's skin frequently. A moderate temperature is also friendlier to the environment by decreasing the amount of electricity your family consumes.
...to go in a public or family swimming pool?
"Infants can go swimming from practically any age, though some experts recommend waiting until they've received their first vaccination at eight weeks old," says Cellupica. If you're worried about bacteria (especially in public pools), be rest assured that chlorine kills most bacteria or viruses. You'll also want to be mindful of the temperature; what's warm for you might be too chilly for baby. Moms should also remember not to go swimming until after their postnatal checkup, which is typically around six weeks after giving birth.
