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It wasn’t until my kids started school that I realized the significance of Summer. During the school year, it isn’t uncommon for our schedules to be filled with school-related activities and work, sports practice and games, Cub Scouts, and more. And because most of those activities are happening during the week, there isn’t a lot of time for us to take spontaneous trips to the beach, the park, or our local museum. Summer is that time when my kids and I create the types of memories that form an indelible imprint on their heart.
As close as we are to the beach, it still requires a concerted effort to make a day of it. While there isn’t much you need for a day of fun in the sun, a few beach bag essentials for kids will ensure everyone has a fun, safe day.
- Beach blankets and towels. I like to bring a spacious blanket where the 3 of us can sit and relax in between sand castles and ocean swims. The beach towels can then be reserved for drying off and you don’t have to worry about tracking sand onto the blanket. Walmart currently has character beach towels on rollback for just under $9.
- Sunscreen. With the rise in the incidence of skin cancer, there isn’t a day that goes by that we aren’t protecting ourselves from the sun. Opt for a sunscreen that protects from UVA and UVB rays and offers an SPF of 30+. I found a natural suncare line called Safe Harbor at my local Walmart. This particular brand is free from parabens and chemical UV filters and can be worn in the water for up to 80 minutes.
- Water shoes and/or flip flops. As soon as I step foot into the sand, my shoes come off. But on hot summer days when the temperature is well into the 90s, little feet require some protection. Water shoes can protect kids’ feet from the sand and any objects they might encounter in the water. Pick up a pair for under $5 at your local Walmart.
- Sunglasses. Protecting your eyes (and your children’s eyes) is as important as protecting your skin. Opt for sunglasses that provide 100 percent UV protection or UV 400.
- Swimsuit/Rash Guard. In addition to a fun, stylish swimsuit, I like to pack rash guards for an additional layer of protection from the sun. My local Walmart has a ton of swimsuit and rash guards on rollback, including a selection of character-inspired swim wear.
- Sand Toys. Boys and girls love building sand castles at the beach. Pick up an inexpensive set for each child so that they can build and play to their heart’s content.
- Change of clothes. Knowing that you find sand everywhere after a day at the beach should inspire a change of clothes. I like to wait to change my kids until we’re close to our car and away from the sand so as not to continue tracking it into our shoes, bags and car.
- Snacks and drinks. At many beaches in Southern California, the availability of food and drinks can be limited and require a pretty lengthy walk. I like to bring a smaller cooler with snacks and drinks on-hand to get us through until our next meal.
Pack all of your beach bag essentials into a spacious tote for a safe day of fun in the sun. Don’t forget to include a few mom essentials such as a good book, a wide-brimmed hat, an umbrella, and first aid essentials
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