The Ultimate Summer Checklist & Tips for New Parents

Summer is in full swing—bringing bright, sunny days and warm evenings that seem to stretch on forever. Those golden rays streaming through the nursery window can make the season feel magical… and a little challenging for new parents. If you’ve been wondering how to keep your baby cool, help them sleep when the sun is still up, and enjoy the season without stress, you’re in the right place.

This guide has everything you need: the ultimate summer essentials checklist and practical tips—from creating a cool, cozy sleep space to packing for family adventures. Let’s make this summer safe, fun, and full of sweet memories for you and your little one!

Sleep can feel like the heart of your day when you have a newborn baby—and summer can make it tricky. Longer daylight hours, warmer nights, and more outings can disrupt routines. The good news? With a few tweaks, you can create a calm, comfortable space that helps your baby rest well, even when the sun is still shining.

1. Keep it Cool

Temperature matters for safe and restful sleep. Aim for their room to be  68–70°F (20–22°C)—cooler than you might expect, but babies sleep best in slightly cool environments. 

2. Dress Your Baby for Summer Nights

Summer calls for lightweight sleep bags made with breathable fabrics like bamboo or organic cotton. These materials wick away moisture and help regulate body temperature, so your baby stays comfortable all night. Consider lightweight TOGs, such as 0.25 TOG or 0.5 TOG. Need help finding the right TOG? Read our handy guide. 

If you’re using a swaddle blanket to swaddle your bub, opt for muslin or bamboo swaddles that allow airflow.

3. Block Out Any Sunlight

Even though it’s still bright at bedtime, your baby’s body needs darkness cues to produce melatonin. Blackout curtains or portable shades can transform your nursery into a sleep haven, helping you and your bub maintain a consistent bedtime routine regardless of the sun.

Summer is full of joy—but for new parents, it can bring unique considerations for keeping your baby safe and comfortable. As parents, here are things to keep in mind: 

• Watch for Overheating: Signs include flushed cheeks, restlessness, rapid breathing, or a hot chest/back of the neck. Cool your baby down by removing layers or using a fan (*safely placed away from the crib).

• Hydration Matters: Babies may want to feed more often in the heat—this is normal and helps them stay hydrated. Remember, it is not recommended to give your baby water before 6 months.

• Sun Safety: For babies over 6 months, keep your bub safe from the sun and choose a baby-safe mineral sunscreen. For younger babies, rely on shade, wide-brimmed hats, and UPF-rated clothing.

• Plan Outdoor Time Wisely: Early mornings or late afternoons are best for walks and playtime.

Summer with a baby isn’t about doing it all—it’s about soaking in the small moments. Here are a few easy ways to enjoy the season without stressing too much:

• Backyard picnics on a blanket
• Early morning walks when it’s cool
• Water play in a shaded spot with a small tub or splash mat
• Family photo day at the park during golden hour

And don’t forget about you. Sunscreen, hydration, and a little rest can make all the difference for new parents, too.

Summer with a baby is a season of learning, laughter, and plenty of adjustments. It’s normal to feel a little overwhelmed. One day, you’ll look back and remember the giggles in the shade, the tiny toes in the grass, and those first splashes of water, not the worries about naps or room temperatures.

So take a deep breath. Celebrate the wins, let go of the “shoulds,” and soak up these sun-filled days with your little one. You’re doing better than you think, and this first summer with your bub will be one for the memory books.