Okay, so technically it’s not summer yet, but we here in Massachusetts have been having some pretty fantabulous weather this spring. And around here, any time it hits 60 degrees, it’s time to think summer!
This sunhat from iPlay isn’t just adorable; it’s safety in a hat. We got our 14-month-old his first last year when he was just a wee one. Talk about coverage! This year we opted for the royal blue, but there are so many fun colors to choose from!
With skin safety in mind, a good sunscreen is an absolute must. I love California Baby’s SPF 30+. Last year I could make due with just the cream, but they also make a stick version — a recent purchase as my guy has become, shall we say, a tad feisty, and lathering sunscreen on his face has become a challenge. The stick makes it easy. I’ve used it on him several times and he hasn’t even attempted an escape!
You know you need a good pair of sunglasses, but so does your child. I must confess that the first pair I purchased didn’t work out. Let’s just say I got a bit too caught up in how handsome my son looked (think baby James Dean) that I didn’t quite pay attention to the fit. Only now that he doesn’t try to immediately remove them (and in fact finds them fun to put on) do I realize they’re much too big for him. The falling off the face when he crawled was my first clue. I figure he’ll grow into them and wear them at some point, but I learned my lesson. Take my advice and try to get over how good-looking your kid is and really make sure the sunglasses fit. I’m getting practical this next time around and picking up a pair of these wrap-arounds from iPlay:
Insect repellent. There’s no ignoring it. With summer go skeeters in these here parts. I don’t like the idea of putting DEET on my baby’s skin, so I love the idea of an organic anti-bug balm! I haven’t tried this yet, but (1) it’s in stick form (see feisty above) and (2) it comes highly recommended. I can’t say I’m excited to try it; it is insect repellent, after all.
This next one may just be a must-have for me, but mama needs a little fun, too. I love this kickball from Melissa & Doug. I just do. It makes me smile. Sure, my son doesn’t fully appreciate its fabulousness yet, but he will. It’s sturdy and I know he’ll have for several summers to come. And did I mention it makes me smile? Isn’t that reason enough to deem it a must-have? There’s a ladybug version too, but I had to draw the line somewhere…at least this year.
So these are my summer must-haves so far and the summer hasn’t even begun! What items can’t you live without when the temps soar?
Mothers and Company 