"Keeping Babies and Toddlers Cool and Safe in UAE Summers: Stroller Safety and Tips"

1.?In the UAE summers, what steps should parents take to ready their babies or toddlers for their strollers? Specifically, what types of clothing and how many layers are appropriate? Is baby sunscreen necessary, and are there any practices parents should avoid in hot weather?

Parents should dress their babies and toddlers in light, breathable fabrics to allow airflow and reduce sweating. One layer of loose-fitting clothing is typically sufficient.

If you’re using a stroller cover, ensure it’s breathable and provides UV protection. For babies older than six months, apply baby-safe sunscreen with SPF 30–50 to all exposed skin.

Reapply every 2 hours, especially if your baby is sweating or has been in water. For younger infants, it’s better to use shade and protective clothing as a first option.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, you can use a minimal amount of sunscreen on the face, back of the hands, and top of the feet.

Use a wide hat to cover their face and neck, and don’t forget sunglasses with UV protection. Try to keep the stroller in shaded areas as much as possible.

Avoid direct sunlight during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm).

2.???Are small children at risk of overheating when outdoors, and what signs of overheating should parents be vigilant about?

Yes, babies and toddlers are more prone to overheating when outdoors, especially in hot climates like the UAE.??

Their bodies don’t regulate temperature as efficiently as adults, and they can become overheated more quickly than adults. Keep an eye out for signs of overheating like red, flushed skin, sweating, irritability, lethargy, and in more serious cases, rapid breathing, faster heart rate and a hot, dry feeling to the touch.

If your baby’s skin is very warm and sweaty or they appear unusually fussy or sleepy, get them into a cooler spot right away.

3.????Would you recommend stroller fans to help cool babies down, especially in strollers and rear-facing car seats?

Stroller fans can be super helpful as long as they are securely attached and provide a gentle breeze, especially during outdoor strolls.

They help to circulate air around your baby, reducing the risk of overheating. Choose one with adjustable speeds, allowing you to control the airflow based on the temperature and your baby’s comfort. When used in rear-facing car seats, ensure that the fan is not blowing directly on the child’s face for long periods and that the child isn’t getting cold from the airflow.

Always buy the fan with a protective cover to prevent any accidents. Keep checking periodically that the fan is working properly, that it is securely attached, and that the battery life is sufficient.?Remember, though, fans are just one part of staying cool—make sure the stroller has plenty of ventilation and that your baby stays hydrated.

4.???What additional strategies or advice would you suggest for keeping babies and toddlers cool and comfortable outdoors during the summer?

Try to stick to early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler by avoiding peak hours.

Choose parks or areas with plenty of shade.

Always ensure your baby stays hydrated. Offer water frequently, especially if they are older than six months. For younger infants, more frequent breastfeeding or formula feeding can help. Using sun hats or UV-protective umbrellas to create your own shade, if necessary, can be helpful. You can use stroller covers or shades that allow airflow and UV protection.

A very helpful tip is to always carry a towel or cloth that can be dampened with cold water and placed on your baby’s neck or forehead to help lower their body temperature.

Be careful of hot surfaces like sand or playground equipment, as they can become very hot and cause burns. Finally, do not forget to frequently check for signs of overheating.