Sun protection guidelines
- avoid the sun between 10am and 3pm even when the day is cool or cloudy
- if outdoors, stay in the shade where possible and remember that the sun's rays can still reach you in shaded areas through reflection and possible penetration through the shade
- if no permanent shade-structure is available, consider:
- a UV-protection-cover or awning over the play area
- a UV-protection-cover or sun-umbrella for the pram - if you have a pram with reversible handles, you can change the direction that you are pushing to minimise the sun reaching your baby
- a cabana (tent-type structure) for the beach or picnics
- sun shades for car windows
- dress your child in protective clothing:
- loose-fitting long sleeved tops & pants in closely woven fabric
- clothing in dark colours (dark colours reflect less light back onto the skin)
- a wide-brimmed or legionnaire's style hat which protects the face, back of the neck and ears
- collars which help to protect the back of the neck
- protective sunsuits for swimming
- protect any parts of the body that are exposed with a high-factor sun cream, look for:
- SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 30+
- broad spectrum (to provide against various forms of sunlight)
- water resistant (for swimming & water-play)
Children's skin can be more sensitive to products such as sunscreen. Look for screens for sensitive skin or those particularly designed for babies and toddlers. Test any new cream on a small area of skin prior to use. Sunscreen should be applied to clean dry skin at least 20 minutes before sun exposure and reapplied at least every 2 hours or more regularly if swimming.
And remember... teach your children good habits by following good sun practices yourself.
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