As the warm days of summer promise delightful romps at beaches, excursions to lakes and rivers and long days spent at public or private pools, parents may feel overwhelmed by the vast selection of swimwear designed for children. However, there are some simple things to consider that may help narrow the selections for the perfect suit for your little mermaid or merman.
Wearability
Children tend to put their clothing to the test with active play and enthusiasm for fun. Swim suits with thin strings, flimsy buckles or cheap material may cost less initially, but may not last through a summer of water-immersed joy.
Comfort
While little boys get to enjoy the comfort offered by swim trunks, little girls are still tugging and pulling at the corners of bikinis whose main function seems to be dysfunctional at best. According to child psychologist John Sommers-Flannagen, little girls who dress to look like swimwear fashion models may suffer from long-term body image distortion due to having their looks and sexuality take precedence over comfort.
There are many modern and fashionable options for little girls that offer the same comfort and coverage their male counterparts enjoy; they include colorful rash-guard tee's and board shorts designed with a girl's taste in mind. Offer your children, girls or boys, the comfort that will carry them through summer and the self-esteem that will propel them through life.
Protection
Many swimwear options offer additional coverage that can reduce the amount and frequency of sun screen applications. Because sunburns acquired before the age of 10 increase the likelihood of developing skin cancer by 50 percent, parents may wish to consider more coverage when they select summer swimwear. Body suits for boys and girls come in a range of colors and styles and offer additional protection from the friction and chills common in water sports. Check for fabrics which boast UVA protection to ensure sunburn prevention.
Swim Diapers
For the tiniest nautical adventurers, swim diapers are available in disposable and washable varieties. Many parents prefer the convenience of disposable swim diapers when diaper demands are imminent. Still, a growing number of parents prefer the environmentally conscious options provided by the wash-and-wear lines of reusable swim diapers. For little ones sensitive to chemicals or latex, there are several types of reusable swim diapers that are both cost-effective and skin-friendly.
References
- "The Baby Book"; William Sears, M.D and Martha Sears, R.N.; 2008
- "Counseling and Psychotherapy Theories in Context and Practice"; John Sommers-Flannagen; 2009
- "Attachment Parenting"; Dr. William Sears; 2004
- Seasons UV Solutions
