Summer Care for Toddlers: What I Learned After My Daughter’s Sunstroke

Summer is here in full force, and while it brings sunshine and fun, it also poses serious health risks—especially for our little ones. Just last week, my 2.5-year-old daughter kiki experienced sunstroke, and it was a wake-up call for me as a parent.

As moms, we try to do everything right, but the heat this year has been unforgiving. Lila had been playing outdoors for a short while in the late morning, and despite keeping her hydrated, she suddenly became lethargic, had a mild fever, and wasn’t her usual cheerful self. A visit to the doctor confirmed it—she had mild sunstroke. The doctor emphasized one thing over and over again: hydration is everything in the summer.

Here’s what I’ve learned (and implemented!) since then to keep her cool, comfortable, and safe:

1. Prioritize Hydration – in Fun, Toddler-Friendly Ways

The doctor advised us to increase her liquid intake significantly. While plain water is essential, toddlers often get bored with it. So here’s what we’ve added to her daily routine:

• Sago (Sabudana) Soup: It’s gentle on the stomach, cooling, and easy to digest. I serve it lukewarm or slightly chilled.

• Watermelon & Muskmelon Cubes: These have become her favorite post-nap snack. I serve them cold and sometimes turn them into fun fruit skewers.

• Coconut Water: Natural electrolytes! I try to offer this mid-morning, especially after any outdoor activity.

• Chaas (buttermilk) & diluted fruit juices: Just enough flavor to keep her sipping.

2. Avoid Peak Sun Hours

We now avoid stepping out between 10:30 AM and 4 PM. If there’s a school run or a walk, I make sure:

• She wears a wide-brimmed hat or a light cotton scarf around her head.

• Her clothes are loose, light-colored, and breathable—cotton is our go-to fabric.

• I apply baby-safe sunscreen on exposed areas, especially if we’re going out in the late afternoon.

3. Keep Her Environment Cool

We’ve made small changes at home to help her stay comfortable:

• Early baths—One in the morning and sometimes a quick rinse in the afternoon.

• Cooling mats and soft cotton bed linen for naps.

• Curtains drawn during the hottest parts of the day to keep rooms cooler.

4. Offer Cooling Foods Through the Day

Besides fluids, her meals are now light and seasonal:

• Curd rice, fruit smoothies, steamed veggies with moong dal, and light khichdi are all staples.

• I’ve reduced heavy, fried foods and anything spicy.

• She loves popsicles made from muskmelon juice or coconut water—a fun treat and a hydration boost!

5. Watch for Warning Signs

Now that we’ve experienced sunstroke firsthand, I know what to watch for:

• Unusual tiredness

• Irritability or crankiness

• No interest in food or play

• Dry lips or skin

• Less frequent urination

If any of these show up, I don’t wait—I offer liquids and rest, and we consult the doctor if needed.

Final Thoughts: Trust Your Instincts, but Be Prepared

Summer doesn’t have to be stressful if we stay one step ahead. Our little ones depend on us to protect them, and sometimes, learning comes from experience. I’m grateful Lila recovered quickly, and her smile is back—but I’ll never take the sun lightly again.

If you’re a fellow parent navigating toddlerhood this summer, I hope my experience helps you stay better prepared. And don’t forget—a chilled watermelon slice and a cuddly nap can fix almost anything.

Stay safe and cool, mama!