The Summer is a great time for children. The sun is out and it is the perfect time to spend the days outdoors playing in the garden, in the parks and down at the beach. With the lighter evenings, the days go on for longer and children get the opportunity to stay active and socialise outside.
As the days are becoming hotter and the UV levels are rising, it is important to understand the safety measures to keep your children safe and healthy while out in the sun. Just because there are clouds or a breeze, does not mean you children still do not need protecting. Children’s skin is very sensitive and UV levels can still be high and harmful.
Tips to keep children protected in the sun.
- Remember to keep babies under the age of 6 months out of direct sunlight.
- Apply sunscreen to your child 15-30 minutes before your children go outdoors. Then re-apply every 2 hours or more often after swimming.
- Ensure all exposed parts of your child’s skin is covered with a high factor sunscreen. Don’t forget the smaller parts such as nose, ears and cheeks. Be especially careful of the child’s back and shoulders as these are most common area’s for sunburn.
- Ask your child to wear a floppy hat or a cap to help shade their face and neck.
- Wear suitable clothing and spend time in the shade when the day is at its hottest.
Vitamin D is best sourced from the sunlight on our skin so it is important for children to play outdoors and receive these benefits. However, it is just important to keep them safe and ensure their sensitive skin is protected from harmful sunburn that may have a long-lasting effect on their life.
How to deal with Sunburn?
- Help soothe the skin with cool water and then apply after sun or calamine lotion.
- Seek medical help if the skin becomes blistered or swells badly.
- If you or your child has become sunburnt, try to keep out of the sun until the redness has gone.
As summer is upon us, it is a great time for your children to stay active and play outside. They have the chance to run around the garden, play games in the park and socialise with their friends. Keeping your children safe in the sun should not be something that prevents them from being outside. It is just key that you remember the safety measures to allow your children to make the most of the sun but to be protected at the same time.
Related posts
