Summer is here! One of our favorite activities to do with my kids during the summer is go to the beach. I’ve created some of the best memories at the beach with my two kids. When you have young kids and toddlers, going to the beach requires some preparation. These simple tips have helped me so that I can enjoy my days at the beach with my kids. So here are 8 tips for taking your toddler to the beach.
1. Simple Schedule
I love creating a simple schedule for our beach days. Our schedules are typically very flexible but I do enjoy having a plan for when we go to the beach. Most toddlers thrive and have better days when there is a schedule or routine in place. The beach is only about 2 hours away from us, so I prefer going early in the morning. We spend a couple hours at the beach and then around naptime is when we head back home. The kids will sleep on the ride home and there’s no sleepy-time tantrums.
Mom Tip: The beach is really fun so I like to give my kids a countdown to help with transitions. For example, I will tell my kids they have 5 minutes before it’s time to go. Then I will have a yummy snack like a popsicle or fruit snacks to help with the transition home.
2. Snacks & Drinks
Drinks and snacks always seem to put my kids in a better mood. I love using the Sistema To-Go containers to pack healthy snacks like fruit and yogurt. I typically overpack when it comes to snacks because getting food/snacks near the beach can be expensive.
3. Reusable Wet/Dry Bags
The first time I went to the beach with my kids I forgot to bring a wet bag. So I had to carry around the wet clothes and shoes until we got back to the car. So while you are packing for the beach, set aside a bag specifically for your wet clothes/shoes. Here is one of my favorite reusable wet & dry bags for the beach HERE
4. Beach Tent
My daughter’s eyes have always been a little more sensitive to light so it’s always important for me to bring sunglasses, a beach umbrella, and/or a beach tent. A beach umbrella or beach tent is great for having a snack break or if your toddlers want to play with some of their toys out of the sun. I’ve seen some really fun color beach umbrellas at Target HERE
5. Beach Toys
Having a couple beach toys will help your toddler enjoy the sand and water for hours. One of my favorite places to buy beach toys is Target Dollar Spot. I found this really cute beach toy set for only $5. Check your local Target Dollar Spot for beach toys.
6. Wagon or Beach Stroller
Have you ever tried to push a regular stroller through the sand? Well, I have and it was so difficult! I had my son in the stroller along with carrying our beach bags and it seemed like it took forever to get to the shore of the beach. Here are a couple of my favorite wagons and beach strollers.
7. Potty
So if you have a child that is in the potty training stage, it’s important to think about the potty breaks. You can bring a portable potty or bring extra swim diapers. Also, when I arrive at the beach, I make sure I know where the nearest bathroom is just in case my kids need to go.
8. Create a Beach Checklist
I am that mom that always creates a checklist. It’s just an easy way for me to make sure I dont forget anything. Here are some things I always add to my checklist for our beach days
- Sunscreen
- Antibacterial Wipes
- Extra Diapers
- Mini First Aid Kit
- Beach Hat & Sunglasses
- Water Bottles
- Portable Charger
I hope these 8 tips for taking your toddler to the beach were helpful! Which one of these tips was most helpful? The beach can be such a great place to take your kids to create fun memories! Also, be sure to check out my blog post 5 Fun Beach Activities for Kids.
XO,
Ashley
