" This is part of a happy beach vacation with the little ones "

The sunlight is reflected on the surface of the water and a magical sparkle lies over the sea. The waves crash gently and the seemingly endless sandy beach feels wonderfully warm. A day like paradise. Millions of people are drawn to the beaches of the world's oceans on their summer vacation to spend a few unforgettable days. As new parents, you too can look forward to a wonderful day by the sea. Contrary to some opinions, it is of course possible to travel to the sea with a baby. The first family vacation will be exciting! That's a promise!

Beach vacation with a baby - what should you bring?

Vacations with children are something special. So look forward to your first family vacation, even if it is a little more chaotic than before. For a beach vacation, you need a lot more baby equipment than for a short break in a hotel.

A sand shovel, bucket and the like are indispensable on the beach. There are also some interesting water toys, as well as water wings, life jackets and swimming rings. In addition, a cozy beach blanket and of course utensils for sun protection, such as a parasol or beach umbrella. It's best to put together a small checklist for your beach vacation. This way you can be sure that nothing important is forgotten. It depends a lot on the age of the child as to what is needed.

Taking your baby to the sea - what your little angel needs

A beach towel, a good book and something to drink used to be enough. A beach vacation with your little one, on the other hand, is a bit of a logistical challenge. But don't be put off. Going to the seaside with a baby just requires a bit of good planning.

Always take a change of clothes and swimwear with you. Think of diapers, wet wipes and swim diapers.

In addition, don't forget the physical well-being. Small snacks, such as cookies, fruit and porridge, as well as plenty to drink are important. Sun protection and, of course, sand toys are also part of the baby equipment. So you are already well equipped for a day at the seaside.

A little tip: always have a bottle of clean water with you. Not for drinking, but to rinse your baby's hands and mouth if necessary or to clean the sandy pacifier clean the sandy dummy. The latter also prevents a smart dummy chain.

How do I protect my baby from the sun?

Babies and toddlers have no place in direct sunlight, even on a summer vacation. This also applies to a day at the seaside. As there is not always natural shade from trees everywhere, beach umbrellas and parasols are recommended. These will always protect your little one from direct sunlight, but not from sunburn. That's why you should never forget sun protection for your baby's sensitive skin.

The highest sun protection factor is recommended. This is SPF50.

No matter how hot it is, your little one should always wear a thin bodice made of light-colored cotton fabric. The sun hat is also important and should preferably have a wide brim and protect the neck area.

Sensitive baby skin is best protected with sun cream with the highest sun protection factor

Sometimes there can be a stiff breeze at the seaside. In such cases, the beach shell is ideal. These small, pop-up tents are quick to set up and protect not only from the sun, but also from the wind. The little ones are particularly sensitive to draughts.

Into the cold water - what to look out for?

Normally, the ideal water temperature for babies is between 32 and 34 degrees Celsius. This is not a problem for the paddling pool in the garden at home. In view of the fact that hardly any of the seas warm up to this temperature, you should slowly introduce your little one to the cool water. It's best to hold your little one in your arms at first. The little ones will feel safe there and can gradually feel their way around.

Slowly get your little one used to the cool seawater

At first, only with their feet and hands. Some babies are content with this and others are full of zest and energy and plunge into the cold water. So that you don't have to worry, it is important to put water wings on your child and possibly also a life jacket. There are special life jackets for babies so that they not only offer a little protection but also fit well. Always remember that life jackets are not to be confused with life jackets and therefore offer no protection against drowning.

Never let a baby or small child out of your sight at sea.

If your child turns out to be intrepid, great water toys such as swimming rings or small inflatable water boats are available. Put your little sailor or mermaid in them and have lots of fun!

Fun and games on the beach - building castles and co.

A beach vacation with your baby takes place most of the time on the soft sandy beach. Cooling off in the sea is short-lived. Vacations with children quickly remind parents of their own childhood and there is truly nothing better than building sandcastles. With the active support of the kids, it's time to build the most beautiful sandcastle on the whole beach with buckets, shovels and rakes. Decorated with sticks and stones, it becomes the perfect motif for a souvenir photo of the first family vacation.

Suitable toys for creative play on the beach

In addition to sand toys, little ones love rubber balls. These provide variety and can be rolled back and forth. With a little skill, you can even build an oversized marble run for the balls in the sand. Fun factor guaranteed! For the very youngest, baby equipment for a happy day at the seaside also includes standards such as a grasping toypacifiers, a picture book and of course the little cuddly toy.

Safety first - what to look out for on a beach vacation?

As idyllic as it may be. Safety should not be forgotten. Unfortunately, not everyone is careful and cautious. It is therefore usually necessary to take a closer look at the area where the day is to be spent. Broken glass, garbage and cigarette butts are dangerous. These must not be left in the immediate vicinity in any way. Medium-sized stones should also be picked up if possible, as children under the age of three still like to put lots of things in their mouths.

Watch out for smaller objects in the immediate vicinity and collect them if necessary

Safety also includes protection from the midday heat. It is better to spend this time in the hotel or vacation apartment. The little ones will enjoy the time out in the cool rooms and will certainly use it for a short nap. Then head back to the sea with your baby. Also think about mosquitoes and other midges in the evening. It is best to get a canopy for the crib.

What to do if the baby swallows sand?

It is not always possible to avoid your little one swallowing sand. Fortunately, the taste is not convincing and so the sand is usually spat out again immediately. So don't panic. Take the water bottle with the fresh water and clean the mouth. Then give the child something to drink and forget about it.

Take turns supervising the little ones with your partner. After all, you're both on vacation.