Appropriate age group:
Preschool and Younger
Elementary School

Description of tip or technique:
In the heat, your baby will most likely sweat more and feel like eating less. To compensate for fluids lost due to perspiration, be sure that your child increases his or her fluid intake. For babies 1 to 24 months old, bring plenty of bottles with breast milk or formula, and also water. Kids this age can get dehydrated even if they're only passengers. Since many infants drink less when uncomfortable in the heat, it's best to offer the breast or bottle at frequent intervals. Keep breast milk and formula cool in a collapsible insulated tote bag or small cooler.

Older children should be given water or diluted fruit juices between their usual bottle feedings. Whenever possible, allow time for your child to cool off after coming inside from a hot day before offering food, since the heat can stifle their appetite. If your baby is eating solids, it's a good idea to try feeding your child smaller meals at more frequent intervals. For 2- to 4-year-olds, bring a variety of snacks (peanut butter and cracker squares, energy bars, Cheerios) in Ziploc bags, water in squirt bottles, and juice packs. Don't forget to pack water for yourself.

Other comments or suggestions:
Always beware of food spoiling when temperatures rise. To avoid spoilage, use an icepack to keep formula, open jars of baby food and beverages cool. As a general rule of thumb, don't use food or drink that is no longer cool to the touch. When in doubt, err on the side of safety -- don't serve your child any food or beverage that you are unsure about.