Baby Elephant Ears founder Alicia Overby shared some of her favorite summer stroller tips and tricks for parents to keep baby calm, cool and comfy.
Here are the tips she sent over for Bargain Mom readers:
1. Use a baby headrest.
Sitting in a stroller all day isn't that comfortable for your little one so it's good to take breaks and carry baby or, if she's already walking, let her alternate between walking and sitting in the stroller. While she is in the stroller, make her feel more comfy with a headrest. Baby Elephant Ears is a multi-use headrest providing spinal/neck alignment and comfort for babies -- and they're designed to look like adorable elephant ears! Baby Elephant Ears works by giving baby superior head/neck support and encouraging healthy, strong posture development. Available at www.babyelephantears.com.
2. Keep baby hydrated.
When it's hot out one of the most important things a parent needs to remember is to give baby water to keep her hydrated. When you're on the go, a nifty gadget to have on hand is Refresh-a-Baby, which turns ordinary water bottles into baby bottles. Simply pop the leak free Refresh-a-Baby on a water bottle of your choice, just add baby formula, and baby is ready to be hydrated. Available at www.refreshababy.com.
3. Pack some snacks.
You're not ready for a day out with baby until you have a bag of snacks ready for your munchkin. Applesauce squeeze packs, cereal, pieces of fruit, and crackers are all great choices for on the go snacking. Pack something that's healthy and yummy to also save money so you won't have to purchase fast food.
4. Cover baby from the sun.
The summer sun has strong rays that can hurt baby's sensitive skin. Keep baby protected with sunblock if she's old enough for it, or store a multipurpose wrap like the PunkinWrap to keep her covered. In addition to being a stroller shade, the PunkinWrap can also be used as a nursing cover, car seat cover, changing pad, or tummy time mat and it's breathable so it keeps baby cool and protected from the sun. Available at www.punkinwrap.com.
5. Provide some entertainment.
Babies can get bored and cranky too, especially when they've been sitting in the stroller all day with no entertainment. Bring along some fun toys that also stimulate baby's senses so she can learn as she plays. PullyPalz are interactive toys that provide baby with developmental benefits and they always keep a pacifier within baby's reach. Available at www.pullypalz.com.