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Lillian M. Beard, M.D, a Fellow of the American
Academy of Pediatrics, is an associate clinical
professor at the George Washington University School
of Medicine and Health Sciences in Washington, D.C.
She is a frequent guest expert and spokesperson on national
television programs, discussing issues related to children's health.
Dr. Beard practices pediatrics in Washington, D.C.
Q: Can you offer some tips on how to keep my baby dressed comfortably during the summer months?
A: It's important to remember that infants are more sensitive to environmental temperature changes than are older children and adults. Even when the environmental temperature seems comfortable, there is natural perspiration resulting from the body working efficiently (metabolism) and this results in some loss of body heat. Dress your baby in layers of cotton apparel and cover him with lightweight, porous (or waffle weave) covers. If he perspires, and the layer of clothing closest to his body feels damp, change it immediately and also consider removing one layer of cover. During warmer periods, be certain that you are offering your infant more frequent feedings to replace fluids lost through perspiration. Giving your baby a sponge bath can also help cool and refresh him.
Even when the temperature out of doors is high, when indoors in air conditioning try to keep his surrounding atmosphere at a comfortable temperature. If you have a thermostat control, a setting at 72 - 75 degrees Fahrenheit should be comfortable for just about everyone. Also be sure that your infant is dressed appropriately. When sleeping in doors, in a climate controlled environment, I advise covering his feet with socks, or keeping him in a lightweight onesie that covers the feet. Their smaller bodies and relatively less subcutaneous fatty (insulating) tissue make them less able to preserve their own body heat and we must attempt to do it for them. If at any time you note that he is shivering, or if his hands and or feet appear blue in color, he is cold and his body is trying to conserve heat; add an additional layer of clothing or another lightweight cover.
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