Fun in the Sun: Our Top Tips to Keep Little Ones Sun Safe This Summer

Summer is fast approaching, and (hopefully) warmer weather is on its way too! However, as much as we all love a sunny day, we do need to make sure we're protected from the sun's UV rays so we don't damage our skin. This is especially true and important for babies and children as their skin is much more delicate; we've put together a list of the top 5 ways to protect your little ones' skin this summer, without compromising on fun! 

1. APPLY SUNSCREEN REGULARLY 

Sunscreen doesn't protect us completely from sun damage on its own but it's a great way to look after the parts of our skin we can't cover - choose a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Our favourite sunscreen is SunDust, which is SPF 50+, contains no nasty chemicals and is full of incredible sparkly bio glitter! Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours which is made easy to remember with SunDust - when the glitter wears off you know it's time to reapply!

2. WEAR A SUN HAT/SUN PROTECTIVE CLOTHING

One of the most effective ways to stay safe in the sun is by wearing protective clothing, such as wide brimmed sun hats to protect the face, ears and neck. Loose, long clothes in darker colours will help reduce sun damage too!

3. STAY IN THE SHADE

If your baby is 6 months and under, it's recommended to keep them out of direct and strong sunshine; older babies and children should stick to the shade as much as possible too, especially between 11am and 3pm when the sun is strongest. This is when sunscreen and protective clothing is especially handy, when they want to be playing out in the sunshine!

4. ROCK A PAIR OF SUNNIES

A good pair of sunglasses is the perfect finishing touch to any outfit, but they're also a great way to protect your child's eyes from the sun. When you're buying sunglasses, look for one of the following to make sure they're protective enough:

- 'CE Mark' and British Standard

- UV 400 label and 100% UV protection written on the label or sticker

- Protection at the side of the eye

5. KEEP COOL WITH PLENTY OF WATER

Paddling pools in the shade are a great way of keeping children cool, and a cool bath before bedtime will keep them comfortable during the night. Toddlers and older children can stay cool with plenty of water, fruit and ice lollies.

What are your best tips for keeping little ones safe and cool in the sun? Let us know in the comments!