The Dos and Don'ts of The Beach

I went with Goldilocks on her summer trip today, and thoroughly enjoyed it. It was an almost-new experience, I've never been to Jump in Cardiff before and haven't been near a beach for 4 years. On the way to the beach I thought about all those carefree things you do there, like jumping about in the waves, building sandcastles and burying each other in the sand. Of course, I made sure we did it all. It's not often Goldilocks and I get to spend quality time together anymore (Big Bear kindly took Little Bear for the day as he was off work) so I wanted to cram in as much as possible. What struck me was how unprepared I was!

We built the castle but had nothing to fill the moat with. We had fun splashing in the waves but I couldn't pull my trousers up far enough and got soaked. I wore trainers to the beach and they got filled with sand, as did my socks.

The only thing I did prepare, essentially, was a spare pair of clothes for Goldilocks. Which got used, but not a toilet accident as I'd expected: she tripped over a ball that was floating on the waves as she tried to kick it back to the boy who kicked it. How she manages it, I do not know!

Anyway: my days lessons are learned, now to share:

• Do prepare for all weathers - more necessary if you're on a planned trip rather than a spontaneous one.
• Do make sure there are enough adults to the amount of children.
• Do wear suitable clothing - if they can't pull up (like my trousers) then consider wearing swimwear so you can remove your clothing to go and have a splash.
• Do take extra clothing for everyone!
• Don't forget to bring several towels.
• Don't forget your camera and batteries.
• Do make sure your children are educated on how to stay safe at the beach.
• Do make sure you are recognisable.
• Don't forget your bucket and spade.
• Don't make sand castles in dry sand.
• Do wear flip flops or sandals if you can: any footwear that sand would shake out of easily.
• Don't forget to keep applying that suncream!

And finally...

• Don't forget to have a great time :)