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Three simple bins for the most prepared summer parent
No more last-minute scrambles – your guide to smooth summer outings
Lakshmi Jayanthi
July 09, 2024
The summer sun is blazing here in Georgia, and my kids are living their best outdoor lives - swimming, biking in the evenings, and all kinds of sports with friends. It’s tempting to kick back and relax on the supervision front, but I’ve found a balance that keeps them safe from sunburns, dehydration, and pesky bug bites without cramping their style.
Source: Giphy
Now, don’t get me wrong, I don’t hover over them, but I’ve put my organizational skills to good use. The secret? Two bins by the door that hold everything we need for our summer adventures, and one bin always on hand. Trust me, you don’t want to rummage for the bug-repellent spray lost in the drawer abyss.
Here’s what you'll find in our adventure-ready bins:
Bin 1 - Summer 101
Item | Parent Tip | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
Sunscreen | Tip: If you have toddlers, use a makeup brush to apply sunscreen! | This refillable applicator makes it easy for kids to apply themselves. |
Anti-bug Repellent | Tip: Apply it before sunscreen to avoid diluting the bug- | This bug repellant lotion worked for us in swampy areas on our trip to India and definitely in Georgia! |
Hand Sanitizer | Tip: Choose one with moisturizing properties to combat dryness | Babyganics Foaming Pump Hand Sanitizer |
Cooling Towels |
Bin 2 - The "Get Out of the House" Bin/
Portable Fan (Recommendation: VersionTECH Mini Handheld Fan or these amazing neck fans)
Snackle Charcuterie Snack box container - perfect for filling it up with the kids favs!
This Motivational Water bottle has actually worked for my distracted 8-year-old who “forgets” to drink his water!
Sunglasses (Best UV protection ones: Babiators Navigator Sunglasses for kids)
Bin 3 - Summer First Aid Kit
Bandages (variety pack and water resistant ones)
Cold packs
Tweezers (for splinters)
Antibiotic ointment for cuts and bruises (Recommendation: Neosporin Antibiotic Ointment)
Bug bite thing - this thing actually works!
Itch Relief Gel (Recommendation: Benadryl Itch Stopping Gel)
Tick remover (Recommendation: Tick Remover) - I hope you never need this!
Hydration tip
Water is the MVP of summer drinks. Here’s a nifty “gulps-per-play-minutes” guide:
- Young kids: 10 gulps every 20 minutes
- Teens: 20 gulps every 20 minutes
Aloe Vera Gel Tip
Keep it in the fridge for extra cooling relief if someone does get a sunburn Recommendation: Seven Minerals Organic Aloe Vera Gel
I’d love to know what are your must-have summer adventure items? Share in the comments below.