With summer approaching, people are going to be heading to the beach to catch some rays and waves.
Absolute Necessities
First and foremost, everyone knows about sunscreen for their skin. The dangers from the sun are too big to ignore. Lip protection is just as important as sun block. Lip balm with an SPF factor will keep lips from getting chapped by the breeze or burned by the sun. Lips can get sunburned.
Eye protection is also important. Sunglasses keep eyes shielded from the harmful effects of the sun, and also keep the user from squinting which causes wrinkles - and who wants to have wrinkles around their eyes? Make sure the sunglasses have UV protection.
A good hat provides protection from the sun, and also keeps bodies cooler on hot days and warmer on cold days. This double-duty dandy is another good item to put in a beach bag, whether it’s a fashionable straw hat or a trendy baseball cap. And remember, ears can get sunburned so a wide-brimmed hat for men and women is extremely useful not only for esthetics, but for keeping the sun off of ears, faces, and heads.
Having Fun in the Sun
These everyday items are not all that should go into a beach bag. There are several less obvious items which will help make a trip to the shore more enjoyable. A good book and some recreational items such as balls, shovels and buckets, and other things that kids enjoy playing with make the day fun for everyone. And don’t forget a towel, beach mat or fold up chair if sitting directly on the sand doesn’t sound too fun. Many people prefer to bring umbrellas for extra protection from the sun.
Hydration and Nourishment are Essential
Swimming, surfing, sunbathing and just plain playing in the sun can work up an appetite. While there are snack bars dotted along beaches, it’s always good to bring water, juice and even snacks. There are several fruit cups on grocery shelves that do not need refrigeration, are fat free and low in sodium, come in packages of four and a variety of flavors for a healthy snack. One fruit bowl is the equivalent to a serving of fruit. Just pack a some of these or make a fresh fruit or veggie bowl and a plastic spoon and rest assured the kids will have a healthy snack while they are enjoying the sand and surf.
Keep these items in mind when sending kids off for a day at the beach or spending a family day by the shore and everyone should have a great day in the sun.
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