How can I keep my child safe in the sun? 

If you’re spending time outdoors with your children over the summer or travelling to sunny places abroad, you’ll want to know how to keep your child safe in the sun. Babies and children can become unwell if they get overheated and it’s important to protect your child’s skin from harmful UV rays. 

Here are some important things to remember before going out in the sun with your child. 

1. Babies and children need regular drinks in hot weather to avoid dehydration. Offer them water or fruit juice throughout the day. Fruit, salad and ice lollies can also help to keep your child hydrated. 
2. Children under the age of 6 months can burn more easily so keep your baby in the shade if you have to be outdoors.  
3. Keep your child’s skin covered as much as possible. In the hot weather, you might think dressing them in little clothing will keep them cooler, but lightweight clothing and a sun hat is best to protect their skin. 
4. The sun is at its strongest between 11am and 3pm, so it’s best to spend time in the shade during this time, even when you are wearing suncream. 
5. Suncreams need to be reapplied, and this includes water resistant creams. If you’re sweating or swimming you need to apply more often, so be sure to check the instructions on the label as all products can vary.  
6. It’s also important to look after our eyes when in the sun by wearing sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection. Children are more likely to wear sunglasses if they can pick their own pair. There are lots of fun options available. 
7. Some medicines can increase sun sensitivity, so check with a pharmacist or your GP if your child is on medication, so that you have a better understanding of what sunscreen to buy. You may also want to consider asking for medical advice if your child has sensitive skin to avoid a reaction.  
8. Teach your child good sun safety habits. Be a good role model by letting them see you regularly applying suncream to your own skin, sitting in the shade during hotter times of the day, wearing sunglasses and light clothing and drinking plenty of fluids. 
9. Help your child to apply suncream. If they are independent enough to do it themself, make sure they apply suncream to all areas of exposed skin, not forgetting the ears and the back of the neck.   
10. Avoid energetic activities when it’s hot and provide an indoor activity where it’s cooler instead. Try to avoid long car journeys or travel at a cooler time of day if your car doesn’t have adequate air conditioning.  

Unfortunately, even when you follow all of the precautions, sometimes children can still get sunburned. If that happens follow the NHS guidelines for sunburn.  

In some cases too much sun can lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Check the signs to look out for in the NHS guidance on heat exhaustion and heatstroke and get first aid advice from the British Red Cross.

For further advice on sun safety: 

• Advice from the NHS on Sunscreen and sun safety.
• Advice from Mini First Aid on Keeping the kids safe in the sun.
• Advice from Kids Health on Sun Safety (for Parents).