How to keep babies and toddlers safe from the sun
The important tips you need to ensure your baby or toddler is completely protected from the hot sun
In this summer heat, protecting babies and children from the dangerous effects of the sun are essential and here’s our top tips on what you need to know.
It’s a fact that 50% of total lifetime sunlight exposure occurs in childhood, so follow these tips to help protect your little one.
Young babies avoid direct sun
Babies under six months old should be kept out of the sun especially around midday.
Avoid hottest part of the day
When taking babies out on a hot day, it is advisable to be out before 10am or after 4pm when the sun is not as hot as other parts of the day.
Protect eyes
Children’s eyes need to be protected in the sun with good quality, wrap-around sunglasses. Stickers on the lens show if the sunglasses provide proper UV protection.
Choose light clothing
Babies should be dressed in lightweight clothing that covers arms and legs with wide-brimmed hats to protect baby’s face, neck and ears.
Apply sun cream correctly
An SPF 30+ sunscreen cream should be used on uncovered areas such as baby’s hands and face. It is important to apply the sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapplied every two hours.