When the weather starts getting warmer, a lot of us start looking forward to days spent on the beach. When you have young children, however, it can seem more stressful to plan a trip to the beach, than the trip is actually worth. A couple without children may be able to just spontaneously decide to drive down to the beach, but when you have young kids, things usually need more planning!
However, it is certainly still a great way to spend a family day out if you are able to plan it properly. A family trip to the beach can not only be a great way to relax and have fun but can also provide you and your children with treasured memories that they will never forget.
So, how can you plan a family trip to the beach when you have young children? Here we will offer some top tips to help you make your beach trip go swimmingly (or paddling-ly)!
Consider the Weather
Of course, the biggest obstacle to planning a beach trip for many people is the unpredictability of the weather. How many times have you anticipated sun and clear skies that never came to pass? How many summer plans have been cancelled due to rain?
Although weather reports are often accurate, there are still things that you can do to be prepared. It is recommended to have the beach equipment you need ready to go, perhaps in your car, throughout the warmer months. This way you can head off to the beach at short notice if unexpected sunny weather occurs!
Make Memories
Beach trips can provide some of the happiest memories for young children. If you have a camera, you can try your hand at family photography, or even hire a professional if you want really great quality snaps! Although even the most lovingly crafted sandcastle will be washed away by the tide, a photograph of your kids next to their creation can last forever.
Have the Essentials Packed and Ready to Go!
So, what do you need to pack for a family trip to the beach? Of course, any beach trip requires towels, swimwear, and sunblock. However, there can be other things to remember if you have young children.
Inflatable armbands and swim nappies are extremely useful if you want to take your children into the sea. Sun hats are also recommended if you want to protect your children from the sun’s rays, and high-factor sunblock specially designed for young skin can be a lifesaver.
The beach can also be dangerous for young children. Depending on the age of your kids, they may want to explore rock pools, play sports like football, or go swimming without you. If you want to give them the chance of this freedom while you sunbathe or read a book, why not bring first aid supplies for common injuries to put your mind at rest? If your partner is with you, you can also take it in turns to watch over the kids.
