Kids are the most vulnerable to the effects of the sun. They are prone to the sun and heat related illnesses. Sunny days are here and as parents it’s crucial that we protect our kids from the sun.

Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun can lead to illnesses like skin cancer and melanoma or even a horrible sun burn.  The risks of prolonged sun exposure to your kids can be drastically reduced when you take proper safety measures. Here are 4 you can get started with.

1. Apply sunscreen frequently

On sunny days, it is very important that you carry a bottle of sunscreen with you at all times. Sunscreens provide protection from the harmful effects of the sun. It is advisable to go for a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher with broad-spectrum protection.

Don’t just stop at applying sunscreen before your child goes outside. Make sure you apply sunscreen on your child’s body often at least every 2-3 hours. That way your child has all round protection.

Be generous with the sunscreen on the parts of your child’s body that is most exposed to the sun, like the back of the neck, arms, feet and even their lips as they can also be prone to sunburn.

2. Limit their time in the sun

Damage from the sun is at its peak between 10am and 4 pm as that is the hottest time of the day. As much as possible, try to limit your kids’ outdoor time within the hours of 10am and 4 pm. Get creative with activities that your child can do indoors during those hours when the sun is at its hottest. If your child goes out during those times, make sure your child takes frequent breaks from the sun or plays in the shade. And, of course, don’t forget the sunscreen.

3. Get them covered up

Another way you can keep your child safe from the sun aside from applying sunscreen is making sure they are covered up. Wide brimmed hats can help shield their face from the rays of the sun and sunglasses keep the sun from harming their eyes.

The kind of clothing you give them to wear is also important to ensure your child’s safety from the sun. Opt for fabrics that are thin, breathable and able to cover the areas of their body that get the most exposure to the sun.

4. Be a good example

What better way to teach your kids the importance of staying safe in the sun than by setting a good example for them. Kids learn faster when they see someone showing the way. If you are consistent with applying sunscreen on your body, hanging out in the shade whenever you’re outside or wearing a hat and a pair of sunglasses, your kids will definitely follow your lead. Don’t skip the safety measures no matter what. Always remember that your little ones are watching and learning from you.

How do you keep your kids safe in the sun? Please share your tips in the comments section.