Top 10 Tips For Protecting Children From The Sun

Top 10 Tips For Protecting Children From The Sun

During the summer months, you’ll want to be outside and so will the children. However, the sun isn’t always safe. Too much can damage skin, and this can lead to premature ageing, sunburn and potentially cancer.

So here are the top 10 tips for protecting your children from the sun during the summer:

  1. Use sun cream. It should be at least Sun Protection Factor 15. Try to ensure your sun cream is water-resistant, especially if you plan to go to the beach or swimming pool.
  2. Apply sun cream 30 minutes before going outside, so the skin has time to absorb it. After this, it should be reapplied every two hours.
  3. Ensure children are wearing protective clothing outside. This should include hat, sunglasses, long-sleeved t-shirts, and trousers.
  4. Try to remain in the shade for as long as possible. This is important during the hotter periods of the day, between 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, when the sun’s rays are at their strongest.

To help with this, remember the shadow rule, if it is shorter than you are, then you need to be in the shade.

  1. Drink lots of water. While this won’t protect their skin, it will help your children stay hydrated which is also important.
  2. Children under six months old should not be in direct sunlight. If they need to go outside, they should wear a hat and clothing that protects them from harmful UV rays.
  3. Regularly check your children for sunburn and other signs of skin damage.
  4. Be a role model, ensure you are following the same advice as you are asking your children to follow. Children will copy those they respect and love, which includes you.
  5. Watch for signs of sunburn and other sun damage. If there is some, then you should stay out of the sun for a couple of days to give your skin a chance to recover.
  6. Stay indoors when the UV score is high. You can find the forecast on the BBC Weather website or another phone app.

What are your tips for keeping children safe in the sun?

Let us know in the comments below.

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