The warm weather makes most things child-related easier – you don’t have to put 18 layers on them before they go out, for example. But it makes some things much more complicated, like keeping them safe in the sun for starters. Then of course making sure they are comfortable when temperatures climb.

Here are the NCT tips for keeping your children cool.

 

1. Chill rooms out before they sleep  

Be prepared, even when it’s 2pm and bedtime isn’t in your brain yet. Use shades or light-coloured curtains and keep them closed, even in the daytime. Open windows too but be careful that small children can’t climb out or reach them.

 

2. Use electric fans

Fans are a handy tool for keeping children cool. One warning, only use if the temperature is below 35°C. This may not be such a worry in the UK but it’s worth noting if you’re abroad. Remember to never aim the fan directly at the body.

 

3. Stop thirst

Make sure children stay hydrated with regular drinks. You could also give them the occasional homemade lolly.

 

4. Fill up the paddling pool

Ah, the trusty paddling pool. Dig it out, fill it up and set up a deck chair nearby for yourself. Just make sure the pool is in the shade and that you supervise children at all times. Here’s how to get through the hot months when you have a toddler. You could replicate it at night too with a cool bath to get their temperature down before they go to sleep.

 

5. Avoid the car

Cars are heat traps and it can be hard to stay cool in your vehicle – unless it’s got proper air conditioning. When the weather is really warm, why not keep it local and go to somewhere like your nearby park.

You could also try travelling early in the morning or in the evening when the temperature’s lower. Do make sure you never leave a baby or toddler in a hot car, even for a minute or two.

 

6. Put a hat on

You thought you had hurdles to climb in life, and then you tried to get a hat on a toddler. We’ve all been there. Yet it’s important to get your child to keep their hat on in the heat.

The ideal hat is one with a wide brim and a flap to cover their neck. Try an elasticated or Velcro strap that tucks under their chin to keep it in place.

You could also get a hat for yourself or their favourite teddy to persuade them this is a club they totally want to join. Read our sun safety article: Sun safety for kids.

 

7. Strip them off

Keep nightwear and bedclothes to a minimum. If it’s very hot, you could even just go with a nappy and a single well-secured sheet that won’t come loose during the night.

 

8. Get a nursery thermometer

Your baby will sleep most comfortably when their room is between 16°C and 20°C. Being able to keep an eye on the temperature in their room with a thermometer is very handy.