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I´m writing this from Spain, and although it is only “primavera”, or Spring, temperatures here have hit 35º C already! Keeping your children safe in the sun is important no matter where you live. Childrens´ skin is delicate, and will burn if you don´t protect it properly. Subscribe to Type-A Mom articles

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Why do we need sun protection?

• skin is delicate and will burn easily if left unprotected.
• sum damage cannot be reversed
• repeated sunburn and over exposure to UV rays is the main cause of skin cancer
• skin cancer is on the increase, but in many cases can be prevented
• kids also run the risk of heat stroke if subjected to prolonged exposure to the sun

Here are some of the best ways to make sure your kids are well protected

• Keep babies out of the sun altogether. Before the age of one, they should be kept cool and in the shade of an umberella.
• Stay out of the sun during the hours when it is hottest, generally 11am until 3pm.
• Make sure your children wear hats. The best sort have a large peak and a flap to cover the back of the neck.
• Get some trendy cover up clothes. You can now buy special sun suits with an equivalent Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of around 40. Light, breatheable and perfect for the beach, the addition of “Spiderman” on the front might be enough to convince your kids it´s cool!
• Apply a high factor sun screen. Factor 35 or above is recommended for children. Delicate parts such as the nose and the tips of the ears can be protected with total sun block. Remember to apply the cream regularly, every few hours and especially after a swim.
• Give the kids sun screen to take to school. I found one in a bottle like a roll-on deodorant, easy for my 7 year old to apply on both himself and his little brother.
• If your child is old enough to keep them on, encourage them to wear sun glasses to protect their eyes – especially on the beach and around water where the glare is reflected off the water and sand.
• Give your child plenty of drinks to keep them hydrated
• Be a good role model for your kids and don´t get burnt yourself! Practice good “sun habits” and emphasise the importance of safety in the sun.

Above all, stay protected, be safe and enjoy the weather!