Beachin’ with the Kids

If you are heading for the coast anytime soon, don’t forget to pack with kids in mind. When you set off for vacation, come prepared for sun and fun—family style! Here’s how to do it:

First, get a large sand bucket with a handle for each young child in the family so that they can be responsible for carrying their own belongings to the beach. Fill the bucket with your regular beach toys, such as hand rakes, shovels, and pitchers. But also scour the kitchen for some more items to bring along, such as funnels, measuring cups, and cookie cutters. Let the kids pick out toys as well, but remind them to keep things small because space is a premium.

Now after you pack for the kids, it’s time to pack for yourself. Carry a huge beach bag that is made out of a mesh material so that water can drain out of it. Now, fill the bag with the following items:

Towel—Make sure it’s huge, but thin enough so that it can roll up tight. Remember, your suit can be skimpy, but your towel has to be gi-normous!

Spray Bottle—These are fun for the kids to play with, and they are also great at helping you keep your cool.

Sunblock—Make sure you pack plenty of waterproof sunblock that has a SPF of at least 30; and remember to reapply it often, at least every thirty minutes and especially after swimming.

Lip Balm—Lips can get sunburned as well, so make sure you pack some that contains plenty of sunblock.

Hats—The scalp can get sunburned as well, so pack a wide-brimmed hat for your child and for yourself.

Long-sleeve Tee—This is a trick that I have used for years. Pack an adult long-sleeved tee in case someone gets chilly or if you notice that one of your kids is getting a bit too much sun.

Swim Shoes—What did we do before these came along? Swim shoes are perfect for the beach because they go straight from the car to the ocean.

Water—Forget about sugary drinks. Bring plenty of water because the heat at the beach can dehydrate you.

Snacks—Go for snack food that contains plenty of complex carbohydrates and proteins, such as whole grain crackers, unsalted nuts, granola, and dried fruit.