Summer Baby Basics

Heat is a killer this time of year, and keeping your baby cool is of utmost importance. During the evening, when temperatures refuse to go down, dress your baby in the bare minimum. Don't be afraid to let her drift off in just a diaper. Many pediatricians believe that sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is due in part to a child overheating—so clear your baby's crib of blankets and stuffed animals, or anything that could contribute to her body temperature rising.

Some of summer's most dangerous problems come from three types of heat-related emergencies:

1. Heat cramps: Muscle aches due to loss of salt as the body sweats to regulate temperature.
2. Heat exhaustion: The prequel to dehydration.
3. Heat stroke: Hot, red, dry skin accompanied by disorientation, irregular breathing, and pulse.

To avoid all three, be sure your baby gets plenty of fluids and seek out cool places when the mercury rises. Breastfeed infants often (but try placing toweling between you and your child to keep both of you cool and dry) and make sure toddlers and older kids drink plenty of water.

You can also give your child a tepid bath (avoid baby powders during the summer, though, as they can contribute to heat rash) or let her play in a small, shallow kiddy pool with adult supervision. Placing a cool, damp cloth on the forehead and one on the back of the neck is another age-old remedy for cooling off your child.

If you run errands with your baby during the summer months, keep in mind that car temperatures can reach 120 degrees Fahrenheit in just 10 minutes. In 40 minutes, a car becomes a furnace surpassing 140 degrees. Never leave your child unattended in a car—even if it is just for a minute.