‼☀ With UV levels and temperatures to soar this weekend across the UK - remember a child’s delicate skin is HIGHLY susceptible to sun damage and can burn within MINUTES...
Sunburn in childhood is STRONGLY linked to the development of melanoma in later life.
Protecting children from over-exposure to UV radiation is a SERIOUS safeguarding issue - here’s or top tips to protect your little sunbeams:
☀ During extreme heat and very high UV levels, avoid direct sun exposure between 11am and 3pm when UV is strongest. Plan activities for early morning or later in the afternoon.
☀ Cover them up with clothing! Ensure shoulders at a minImum are covered at all times with a T-shirt - UV protective, long sleeve tops will provide optimum protection whilst keeping them cool!
☀ Ensure they wear a wide brimmed or legionnaire sun hat to protect their scalp and provide shade to the face, neck ears cheeks and eyes.
☀ If they have sunglasses - get them wearing them! Our eyes are up to 10 times more sensitive to UV damage than our skin!
☀ Seek shade as much as possible - babies and toddlers should be shaded AT ALL TIMES.
☀ Apply SPF50 5 star UVA sunscreen, LIBERALLY 20 minutes before venturing outdoors, then reapply another coat to ensure even and adequate coverage.
☀ Reapply sunscreen AT LEAST every 2 hours, more often if perspiring and ALWAYS straight after swimming!
☀ Keep them hydrated with water encouraged regularly throughout the day.
If they are at school or nursery - applying sunscreen before they go will not provide them with protection during peak UV hours - schools and pre-school settings have a duty of care to safeguard your children - DON’T LET THEM GIVE YOU EXCUSES - they need sunscreen reapplying and they should wear a suitable sun hat.
