5 Must Haves When Going To The Beach With a Toddler

A day at the beach with a toddler can be really fun, lots to discover and so much to do. You could look at it as an adventure to the worlds biggest sand box. Before heading out to your big day at the beach, packing the right stuff and the right amount of stuff is really important. As  you know when you travel with little ones you carry a lot, here are five must have items that you should not be without at the beach.

1. SUNSCREEN! – This is by far the most important item to be taken to the beach with your toddler. The sun on the beach can be very intense especially to young sensitive skin. Finding the SPF that is right for you and reapplying is important. Sunscreen is a barrier just like wearing an article of clothing, the only difference is it wears off with water, sand and time. Follow the directions on the bottle and limit your time on the beach to help protect your toddlers skin.

2. Swimming Diapers – If your toddler is not potty trained swimming diapers are a must have. These diapers are made specifically to deal with lots of water absorption. Regular diapers are not made to absorb large amounts of water and can only hold in so much before they explode leaving a really big mess of the filler that they are made of. Even the swimming diapers need to be changed regularly because they can explode as well but with not as much mess as a regular diaper.

3. Snacks – Most toddlers are never far from snacks, little ones especially work up an appetite playing on the beach. Packing snacks that are easy to handle and already prepared are the easiest. Crackers, fruit, granola bars, dried cereals and sandwiches are good items, as well as juice boxes or sippy cups. Keeping in mind sand is inevitably going to get on everything.

4. Sand Toys – Sand toys will be used a tremendous amount by you and your toddler at the beach. Most stores near the beach will offer them for sale. A bucket and a shovel are essential and there are many others that you will find useful as well.

5. Beach Blanket and Towels – A big blanket or towel for you and your toddler to sit on that will not be as sandy as the beach is a great item to have on hand. If your little one needs a rest, a place to have their snack or you a place to lay and relax you have one.

The beach is a great place for you and your toddler to get away for the day. Meeting all your needs on the first trip to the beach is a great dream to make a reality. Lots of sunscreen and lots of playtime will make for a great day and a treasured memory.