Kindersteps

Keep Your Baby Hydrated in Summer with These Fun Recipes!

12 Oct
Summer can be a tough time for babies, especially if they're not used to the heat. Babies affected by heat stress can be irritable, look unwell, and overly warm to the touch. When babies feel hot and overheated they generally look unsettled, feel uncomfortable and dehydrated. 
But there are a few things you can do to keep them cool, hydrated, and safe. In this article, we'll give you some tips on how to do just that.

Signs of dehydration 

Dehydration can lead to lethargy, fatigue & dizziness. Children playing outside while dehydrated, more serious problems can occur. Always look for these signs before you leave your children outside during summer. 
  • Thirsty.
  • Fewer wet happen.
  • Tired / no energy. 
  • Looking pale. 
  • Fewer tears when crying.
  • Irritable & unsettled.
  • Gasping or puffing.
If you feel your baby has overheated, immediately take them inside and remove their clothing, give them a quick bath and offer to feed them soon.  Ways to keep your baby cool in summer
  • Find shade - if your toddler wants to play outside find shade under a tree or use external sun shade or an umbrella to protect your toddler from scorching sunlight. If your young infant is inside try avoiding direct sunlight by putting on blinds or closing curtains in the room. 
  • Always stay hydrated - hydrating foods like watermelon, grapes, and oranges would be great to include.
  • Sunscreen - parents can start applying sunscreen to their children after six months of age. Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including the face, neck, ears, and legs. Reapply every two hours.
  • Frozen treats - a few toddler-friendly foods and recipes have been mentioned below. 
  • Clothing  -  dress your baby in loose, lightweight clothing.  Natural fibers like cotton are best as they breathe well and won't trap heat. 
  • Swimming - start with short swims and gradually increase the length of time as your baby gets more comfortable. Make sure the water is not too cold. 
  • Air conditioning - Pediatricians believe that sleeping in an air-conditioned room is healthier for toddlers and infants than sleeping in a warm, poorly ventilated room. However, ac should be used carefully, at appropriate temperatures, especially with newborns and young infants, as they cool down faster than adults. 
Homemade fun and frozen treats to include in your child’s diet to beat off summer. 

Try to include your little ones too while preparing the treats. It will be a mess, however, this is a fun bonding activity you can do, so just let go and enjoy this time with them. 

Peanut butter yogurt bites

Ingredients
1/4 cup peanut butter
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp maple syrup
3/4 cup greek yogurt

Instructions
  • Combine all the ingredients.
  • Place the mixture in a pastry bag, into parchment paper, and pipe small circles of the mix.
  • Let it freeze for 1 hour, peel off yogurt bites and store them in a freezer bag.
One ingredient ice cream 

Ingredient
One ripe banana

Instructions 
  • Cut into small pieces, and store them in freezer bags for 2 hours. 
  • Pulse the banana’s in a blender until smooth. 
  • Transfer to an airtight container, and freeze until solid. 
Yogurt lollies 

Ingredients
1 cup yogurt 
1 cup mango puree 
4 tbsp sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
  • In a blender blend together all the ingredients to a smooth consistency. 
  • Pour into the molds and freeze them for 6 to 8 hours. Don’t forget to insert the lolly stick. Serve chilled. 
Very berry smoothie

Ingredients
1 ripe banana preferably frozen 
A handful of frozen berries 
Milk/milk alternative 

Instructions
  • Blend all ingredients in a blender.
  • Top it off with more berries. Serve chilled.
Strawberry slushie 

Ingredients
1 large lemon
½  to 1 cup of strawberries
2 - 3 tbsp of honey 
Ice Water

Instructions
  • Blend everything until well combined. Serve chilled.
If you have any concerns or notice unusual symptoms, it is recommended that you get in touch with your child's pediatrician. 

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