Sun care for kids

Find hats they like
Encourage children to wear hats with brims, especially if they are not wearing sunglasses. The wider the brim, the more skin will be shaded from the sun.

Use sunscreen wisely
Apply factor 15+ sunscreen 15-30 minutes before children go outdoors. Then re-apply generously once outside to be sure of good coverage. Don't forget their shoulders, nose, ears, cheeks and tops of feet.

Remember sunscreen washes off
Always use waterproof sunscreen (factor 15+) when children are swimming or playing outdoors with water. Re-apply after towelling.

Don't forget school times
Remember play times and lunch breaks on summer school days too. Give children a hat to wear and, if they can't apply sunscreen at school, cover their exposed skin with factor 15+ before they go.

Remember you can burn in the UK
The Great British sun is quite capable of burning your child. Take extra care at home as well as abroad.

Know the shadow rule
If your shadow is longer than you are, then you are safe from the sun. When your shadow is shorter than you are, the sun can burn you.

Set good habits for the future
Remember, children spend much more time outside than adults do.

By putting these tips into practice you will protect your children now and reduce their risk of developing skin cancer in the future.

Teaching children safe sun habits while they are young sets a good pattern for later life.

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