If you live near a beach, whether it be the ocean or a lake, it's a great way to enjoy time with your kids and keep away the boredom bug. If you don't live near the water, but are planning a vacation to the beach, here's a list of items that are must-haves!
Sunscreen
This is probably the most important item in your beach bag.
Make sure you have sufficient sunscreen protection for yourself
and your children. The sun's ultraviolet rays are at their
strongest during the hours of 10 am and 4 pm, so limit your
time in the sun during those hours.
Choose a sunscreen lotion that is at the very least 15 SPF, more appropriate for children is an SPF of 30 or more. Be sure to adequately apply the sunscreen to all exposed skin, including ears, nose and neck. Speak to your doctor about sunscreen and babies under six months of age. Don't forget your lips! Bring along sun protective lip balm with an SPF of 15 or more. An aloe-based after-sun lotion is a great way to soothe your skin after a day in the sun so apply after your day at the beach.
Protective barriers
Sunglasses that block ultraviolet rays, sun hats with brims,
and beach umbrellas are all wonderful items to have along for
added protection. Babies under six months old should wear
protective clothing, a brimmed sun hat and if possible, baby
sunglasses that protect from harmful UV rays. Babies should not
spend a lot of time in the sun, but if they are, keep them
protected! A first aid kit with bandages, an antibiotic cream
and other essentials is an excellent idea as well.
Chairs and blanket
There are chairs made specifically for the beach, they sit low
to the ground and fold up neatly, often they include a handy
shoulder strap. Don't count on the beach having chairs for its
guests! A blanket is another nice thing to bring along. Not
only is it comfortable to sit on, but it's a welcome comfort
from the hot sand on bare feet.
Sand and water toys
Kids love digging and building in the sand, it's a must for a
beach visit. There is a huge variety of toys on the market made
specifically for water play. Nerf balls and lightweight canvas
Frisbee discs are great because they float and often come in
neon colors so they can be seen easily.
Don't forget the standard shovels and pails, sand diggers and sand sifters, all which are great for building sand castles, sifting for shells and rocks and pouring water into makeshift motes. Bring along a plastic jar to collect shells. A butterfly or small fishing net can be loads of fun for catching small minnows near lake shorelines! Let's not forget the old beach standby, the beach ball. Squirting water toys are also a blast and can keep the kids busy for hours. Goggles and water masks are great, but can be easily lost in the water. Be sure to bring along extras! There are hundreds of different kinds of beach and water toys, bring along what your family will enjoy.
Floatation devices
Most public beaches do not allow items such as floating rafts,
noodles, or "arm floaties" as they are not Coast Guard-approved
swim or safety wear. Check with your beach lifeguards or town
officials to see what they will or will not allow. Coast
Guard-approved life jackets are welcome and recommended for
young swimmers, even those who have recently learned to swim,
for safety purposes. Many beaches offer free loaner
lifejackets, or they offer them for a nominal fee.
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