Do make a plan; don’t follow it.
I’m not saying to never book a trip or fill out your Mom’s Plan-It calendar to the max. However, I have all too often planned every single activity down to the minute that I miss out on the fun. Also, your kids want a say in what you are doing as well. Yes, you thought that Jurassic dig was the perfect educational and enjoyable experience, but the kids just want to jump in the really amazing splash pad they just discovered at the building next door. Just breathe and smile; you will be prepared for your plans to change if you have everything you need by following these kids’ summer wardrobe do’s and don’ts.
Kids’ Summer Wardrobe Do’s and Don’ts
Do:
1. Have a backup outfit.
Accidents ALWAYS seem to happen when you are away from home. These can include bathroom accidents, muddy puddles they just had to splash in (thanks, Peppa Pig), food spills, bloody noses, and so much more. If your LO is wearing an outfit that you just can’t bear to have ruined, I would leave it at home or take it and change them just prior to the event requiring that outfit.
2. Carry a lightweight jacket.
Why should I bring a jacket? I’m going to a tropical destination. That’s exactly why you need a jacket. In Texas, we get used to temperatures that reach over 100 degrees consistently. However, on these tropical trips, many of them have an average temperature of the perfect 82 degrees daily. During the day, that’s beyond perfect. In the evening, that can get a little chilly, especially if you have any degree of a sunburn.
3. Wear shorts under your dresses!
This goes for ANY age. Kids love to do cartwheels, climb on playgrounds, and sit in the most unladylike ways. As a common courtesy to those around you, please add shorts. I love to get ours from Primary.com. This rule also applies to the moms. When you bend down to tie a shoe or grab something out of your diaper bag or purse, it is a good idea to wear shorts under your dresses as well for hopefully obvious reasons.
Don’t:
1. Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and water.
“Too much unprotected exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause skin damage, eye damage, immune system suppression, and skin cancer,” according to Kidshealth.org. Make sure to bring sunscreen, UV protection hats, and sunglasses. On this same note, but not clothing related, drink LOTS of water. I always have a refillable water bottle in our backpack to help us all stay hydrated.
2. Don’t forget swimsuits and water shoes.
Don’t be afraid of a little (sometimes A LOT) of water. So many places have splash pads or water attractions that you might not be aware of prior to going. For example, at the Dallas Arboretum, I had no idea they had so many opportunities in the Children’s Adventure Garden for kids to get soaking wet. My DD had a blast, but I also did not have a swimsuit or a change of clothes, so she was slightly miserable for the rest of the day.
On this same note, water shoes are very important. Standard flip flops will often rub and cause blisters once their little feet get wet. For an awesome selection of water shoes, we shop at Target. Finally, have a beach towel in the car just in case you need it.
3. Don’t forget the essential parent first-aid kit.
You can order a pre-made kit from many sites, or you can make your own. Being married to a pharmacist, I probably have the world’s largest first-aid bag, but you would be surprised by how often I do need it for myself and friends. Some items in mine include band aids, bug spray, and baby wipes. This is also where I put my sunscreen and Aloe. For more details on your first-aid kit, check out this DMB article regarding how to make a homemade kit: Be Prepared: Make a Homemade Emergency/First Aid Kit for the Car. It even includes a DIY printable.
These kids’ summer wardrobe do’s and don’ts will fit in a standard pool bag or backpack to easily take on all of your adventures. Now all that you need to do is remember to pack your camera to take lots of pictures to capture all of the memories you will be making.
“Summer is filled with breaking rules & standing apart, ignoring your head and following your heart.” ~Anonymous
