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12 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • July 2018 12 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • July 2018 From sandcastles to swimming, there's nothing like a summer day at the beach. If you're just popping down for a quick swim to cool off, you don't need much more than a bathing suit and towel. But if you're going for the day, planning can make or break the trip. Here are seven things to consider, from getting there to getting home, for your best beach day yet. PLAN FOR PARKING. Is there ample parking? Do you need to get there early to get a spot? Will you need to pay for parking? You don't want to show up at the beach with a car load of kids and find that you'll have to schlep your stuff five blocks or start to pull into the parking lot only to find you have no cash. Be a Pro at the Beach This Summer WRITTEN BY SARA BARRY 1 2 FEED THE TROOPS. Even if there is a snack bar or other food available at the beach, it may be cheaper and easier to pack a lunch. Set expectations for your kids ahead of time. Letting kids know "We're bringing a lunch and drinks, but we can all get an ice cream in the afternoon" can cut back on repeated requests. If you're getting an early start, packing lunch the night before keeps the morning running smoothly. Have a list of everything that has to go in the cooler so you don't forget essentials. Bring an extra sandwich in case somebody is really hungry or a sandwich falls in the sand (it happens). It's easy to get dehydrated during a long day at the beach. Everyone will be happier if you make sure they're drinking enough. Freeze water bottles overnight to help keep drinks cold. Fruits, like grapes or watermelon chunks, help hydrate too. Add some napkins or wipes, cups (if you're bringing a jug of drinks), and a trash bag to your lunch stash. Freeze water bottles overnight to help keep drinks cold. " "