How To Sun-proof your baby!

There are lots of ways of dealing with the dreaded Indian summers. M&B makes it easy to ensure your tot stays safe all through the hot months

The heat is on and you’ve planned a summer of picnics and days on the beach building sandcastles so big they need planning permission plus burying Daddy up to his neck in the sand when he dozes off! Keeping young children safe in the sun is a worry for many parents, but luckily there’s no need to hide your tot indoors all summer long. “The sun helps you synthesize vitamin D and there’s increasing evidence that it helps prevent many types of cancer,” says Rebecca Russell, SunSmart campaign manager for Cancer Research UK.

KEEPING BABY COOL

As a golden rule, keep your tot inside or in the shade between 11am and 3pm, when the sun’s rays are strongest. Says Dr Heather Payne, UK-based consultant paediatrician, “Make a big deal about getting in the shade for lunch and a nap.” At other times, keep kids protected and cool with a hat, sunglasses, a sunshade for the pushchair and cool, loose clothing in fabrics that breathe.

APPLY SUNCREAM CORRECTLY

Babies under six months should never be in direct sunlight. “Young babies’ skin is very thin, so burns easily,” says Heather. “Suncream shouldn’t be your only protection for older babies and toddlers,” says Rebecca. “The first lines of defence are time in the shade, protective clothing, a cap/hat and sunglasses,” she says. However, suncream is crucial protection for exposed skin.