Family Friendly Beach Time
by Marie Lauver
(Memphis, TN, USA)
Family trips can be difficult when you go to a beach because you are exposed to a variety of people.
For starters, there are designated beaches that don't permit alcohol anywhere on or near the beach. This is an obvious must if you're bringing kids, you wouldn't want to deal with a bunch of drunks.
It also helps to look for a family oriented beach that has a little snack shack so in case you forgot to bring drinks - they have it. Little stores like these also carry inexpensive things like band aids or extra ice for your drinks!
When selecting a beach look for one that has a posted lifeguard and family areas that have grills and picnic tables. When you're enjoying the smell of grilled food and sunshine make sure you oil your kids up well with sunblock. Sunburns are not a fun experience, especially when you're young.
Even though someone may be sitting at the lifeguard post it helps to have one adult in the water with the kids. The adult can help entertain them and think of fun water games while a few other adults prepare for the onslaught of hungry swimmers at the picnic table.
With the kids being entertained most of the day it helps to being a comfortable chair and a good book. At the end of the day keep a tally of everything you brought and make sure to bring your own trash bag so you left your picnic site as clean as you found it.
