How to enjoy fun on the beach

There are many magical firsts for your child, but seeing her dip her tiny toes into the ocean and watching her reaction – probably squeals at the sudden shock of the iciness of it all – is one of the most memorable. And indeed, letting the gentle waves ripple over your feet as they sink in the sand can still have a strangely comforting affect for all ages – especially if the waves are warm and the setting is picturesque.

     But if we want our beaches to be clean and enticing, we all have a role to play every time we visit. Encourage your child to be conscientious about never leaving any litter and showing respect for any sealife, for example, taking photographs of any pretty shells she comes across rather than taking them home. “Lots of children and families get involved by going along to help on a beach clean or by 'adopting' their local beach and helping look after it,” says Rachel Bailey of the Marine Conservation Society (MCS). “We really do encourage all generations to get involved, to see what a mess our beaches are and help to make them better”. The Cool Seas section of the MCS website is also a great way to inspire children to be involved in the care of our beaches and sealife.