Beachy Keen: How To Ensure Your Day At The Beach Is Well, “A Day At The Beach”

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By Mia Bolaris-Forget

Some of my favourite childhood memories revolve around going to Coney Island, (both the beach and the amusement park) Brighton Beach (and trust me, I have my own [childhood] memoirs), Jones Beach and the Hampton after moving from Brooklyn to Long Island.

In fact, I LOVE the beach so much that I chose to get married on one. And, I can hardly wait for a “good” weekend so DH and I can hit the Long Island shores.

And, while WE can pretty much fly by the seat of our swim trunks when it comes to hitting the surf and sun, families need to properly plan for their day at the beach (or pool), making sure that everyone has fun and that no one get too tires, hurt, or sandy sandwiches.

Make sure everyone knows exactly what they want to bring and is prepared to carry both their stuff and their weight. And, everyone should have a clear idea and understanding of the “itinerary”, including how far your may have to park and walk, when you can swim, after eating, how much money is available for spending, and how the day is going to unfold and what everyone should have on hand. Also make sure to lay the ground rules for applying sunscreen and what is considered acceptable behaviour and play.

Make sure everyone in your group has a cover-up and a change of bathing suit and/or clothes, especially young children, and preferably something unique and identifiable that will make your clan easy to spot in a crowd. For infants and toddlers consider not only a “beach leash”, but also bringing toys and a small baby pool and umbrella to keep your little one cool, safe, and amused.

Consider packing two coolers rather than one, one for food and another for grownup beverages and kiddie drinks. Also make sure you have an extra set of key, and some spare change or extra cash, just in case. You can store both in the cooler for security and safekeeping. Also, make sure your bring a plastic bag or two for garbage and don’t forget the first aid kit or the handy wipes. Last but not least take stock of what you’re bringing and do a check before you leave, making sure that you’re leaving nothing behind.

Finally make sure you have enough easy to eat healthy snacks since kids likely won’t want to eat when their out in the sun and on the beach. Encourage healthy eating habits by noshing on nourishables yourself and settting aside a designated time where the whole family can sit together and eat. And, don’t forget to keep things hydrated by keeping on hand plenty of chilled water and juice.

Long Island Safety Articles > Beachy Keen: How To Ensure Your Day At The Beach Is Well, “A Day At The Beach”