At some point the sun WILL shine this summer and you and your child will want to enjoy the great outdoors.  Here are my top tips for keeping your little person safe in the sun.

  • Sun lotion with a minimum SPF of 30 should be applied generously at least 30 minutes before venturing out into the sunshine. It should be reapplied at least every 2 hours but a lot more often if it is rubbed or sweated off during play.  Even on cloudy days it is a good idea to apply sun screen.
  • Coloured spray on and draw on sunscreens are a fun way to encourage children to stay safe in the sun.
  • Children’s skin is far thinner and subsequently more delicate than adult skin.  It needs far more protection than you think.
  • SPF30 sunscreens provide up to 97% protection against harmful UV rays but no cream (no matter how big their claim) can protect skin completely.
  • Keep skin covered where possible with loose clothing.
  • Play dress up together and encourage your child to keep a hat on outdoors, even if it’s a fireman’s helmet! Wearing a hat will help avoid heatstroke and will provide shade for the little one’s eyes.
  • Keep your child well hydrated with lots of water when it’s hot.
  • Little people love to put sunglasses on. Invest in some that provide 100% UV protection.
  • When the sun is at its absolute strongest between the hours of 11am and 3pm try to stay indoors.  If that’s simply not possible then at least aim to stay in shady areas, out of the direct sun.

Stick firmly to these guidelines and you should be able to enjoy a fun filled summer in the sun without having to endure the agony of trying to soothe a sunburned child.