First Time Mama Hacks

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There’s nothing quite like spending a day at the lake with the family. The serene water, the laughter of kids playing, and the beauty of nature all around make for unforgettable memories. However, being well-prepared is key to ensuring everyone has a great time, especially when you have little ones in tow. Here are my top five must-haves for a day at the lake, along with some essential tips for keeping your baby happy and healthy.

1. Snackle Box

A snackle box is a game-changer for family outings. It’s essentially a tackle box filled with a variety of snacks. From fruit slices and cheese cubes to nuts and crackers, a well-stocked snackle box keeps everyone satisfied and prevents meltdowns. Plus, the compartments keep everything organized and easy to grab. My little one is obsessed with this and loves when we pull it out.

2. Sun Shirts

Sun protection is crucial, especially for the little ones. Sun shirts, also known as rash guards, are a fantastic way to keep your kids’ skin protected from harmful UV rays. They’re comfortable, quick-drying, and offer more reliable protection than sunscreen alone.

3. Electrolytes

Staying hydrated is important, but when you’re active in the sun all day, you also need to replenish electrolytes. Pack some electrolyte drinks to keep everyone feeling their best. They help prevent dehydration and keep energy levels up. My personal favorite is Just Ingredients electrolytes! I put them in my 32 oz reduce bottle (super easy to throw in a bag as it doesn’t leak!)

4. Sunscreen

This one is a no-brainer. Apply sunscreen liberally to all exposed skin, and don’t forget to reapply every two hours or after swimming. Choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 for optimal protection. Our personal favorite is Pipette!

5. Apple Watch

Keeping track of time can be tricky when you’re having fun, but it’s important to reapply sunscreen, take hydration breaks, and manage your little one’s needs. My Apple Watch has help us stay on schedule, ensuring everyone’s safety and comfort. We set a time for an hour and half making sure sunscreen is applied, diapers are changed, and everyone’s had a little something to eat.

Helpful Tip: Diaper Changes and Diaper Rash Prevention

As a first time mom, I didn’t realize that sitting in a diaper that had been in lake water would cause a diaper rash.

Babies’ skin is delicate, and spending all day in a wet or soiled diaper can lead to diaper rash. Here are some tips to prevent and treat diaper rash during your lake day:

• Frequent Changes: Change your baby’s diaper frequently. Don’t wait for them to become too wet or soiled. Bring along a portable changing mat and some plastic bags for used diapers.
• Dry and Clean: Make sure your baby’s bottom is thoroughly dry before putting on a fresh diaper. Use a soft towel or wipes.
• Diaper Rash Cream: Apply a thin layer of diaper rash cream during each change as a preventive measure. We also like to add Active Skin Repair and even jojoba oil to help soothe and give a faster recovery.
• Let It Air: Whenever possible, let your baby go diaper-free for a few minutes to allow their skin to breathe.

If your baby does develop a rash, here’s what to do:

• Gentle Cleaning: Clean the area gently with water and avoid using wipes that contain alcohol or fragrances. We always carry Active Skin Repair and that’s been a life saver with diaper rashes/cuts
• Frequent Changes: Continue to change diapers often to keep the area dry.
• Rash Cream: Apply a diaper rash cream with zinc oxide to protect the skin and aid healing. We love Boudreaux’s Butt Paste.

With these essentials and tips, your day at the lake can be fun, relaxing, and safe for the entire family. Enjoy the sunshine, the water, and the precious moments with your loved ones!