Chapter 3 – Sea, Mountains or Countryside?

When it comes to choosing a destination, whether a trip or vacation in the mountains, countryside, or by the sea, it is definitely beneficial for children because it offers them the chance to enjoy clean air and connect with nature. Numerous scientific studies have shown that mountain holidays are good for children’s health and help prevent many illnesses. Going to high altitudes increases oxygenation, which stimulates the production of hemoglobin—the substance that allows red blood cells to release oxygen to the lungs. Moreover, mountain air is especially beneficial for respiratory conditions.

A healthy baby can travel to the mountains from the first days of life. However, until the age of one, it’s better not to go above 1000 meters, as a significant change in air pressure can cause discomfort to the newborn. What absolutely must be avoided is a sudden change in pressure. It’s always advisable to ascend gradually, taking all the time needed to reach the destination gently. A sudden pressure change can trigger barotrauma-induced otitis, a severe pain caused by a sudden and significant negative pressure in the air-filled spaces of the temporal bone, which can lead to displacement and stretching of the eardrum. In such cases, it’s best to descend slowly and reconsider the climb at a later time. After the age of one, it is generally safe to go higher—even up to 2500 meters—provided the child is in good physical condition. Always pay attention to the child’s reactions and avoid quick ascents. While outdoors, never expose a baby’s skin to direct sunlight—even in the mountains and in winter—without protecting it with high-SPF sunscreen.

In the summer, sea baths are fine even for the youngest, provided the water is clean and not too cold. Be sure to rinse off the salt with fresh water after the swim. For infants under three months, if you’re unsure about water cleanliness, it’s better to set up an inflatable kiddie pool under an umbrella and fill it with clean water. Seawater is not sterile, and the baby might come into contact with bacteria that can cause skin infections. When in doubt, it’s better to wait. Even after three months, keep in mind that babies are more sensitive to cold than adults, so observe your child to see whether the bath is enjoyable for them. Always rinse their skin with fresh water afterward, even for older children.
When children are very young, avoid the beach during the hottest hours of the day. Prefer early morning or late afternoon, and always apply high-protection sunscreen before going to the beach, reapplying it after swimming—even if the child is playing in the shade under the umbrella.