How to keep your little one safe in the sun

When you live in the southern hemisphere, it’s a given that much of family life revolves around spending time outdoors. But, did you know that severe sunburn can occur after just 15 minutes of sun exposure? 

And while getting enough vitamin D is an essential part of living a healthy life, too much sun really isn’t fun! Sunstroke, dehydration and sunburn are all indicators you’ve had too much – and children are the most susceptible. 

Here’s how to ensure your little ones are protected when you’re outdoors. 

Start them young 

Sunscreen and wearing a hat should be part of your daily routine. Babies run the risk of getting burnt in their prams – even if they’re only strapped in for a short walk in the park. 

Not all kids are compliant when it comes to applying sunscreen, which is why making it a part of daily routine from a young age is your best weapon in sun defense. Likewise, making a hat a non-negotiable part of outside time from as young as three months and you’ll be setup for life. 

Helpful daily habits

Toddlers at playschool should have sunscreen generously applied every morning before drop off and don’t forget to pack a hat for outside play. Also, remember to pack a water bottle in their school bag to prevent dehydration. 

Kid-friendly roll-on sunscreens are an excellent (and fun) way to encourage young ones to take responsibility for their sun protection – all you need to do is fill in the gaps that they might have missed. Use SPF 50 sunscreen to protect young and vulnerable skin, “preparing your kids for a lifetime of being mindful about the sun will help protect them from sun damage and potentially devastating skin cancers,” says Clicks Clinic Sister Mariaan Fourie.  

It takes more than a hat to cover up properly

Aside from wearing a hat when outdoors, children should also wear a sun protective clothing at the beach or when swimming in a pool. Make umbrellas an essential part of your outdoor equipment and try to keep your kids out of the sun in the hottest part of the day (between 12-3pm). 

UVA and UVB rays aren’t just a threat to the skin – don’t forget that the eyes can suffer from sun damage too – a quality pair of sunglasses will help to prevent long-lasting eye damage. 

IMAGE CREDIT: shutterstock.com