The short answer
Use shade, lightweight covering clothes, a wide-brimmed hat and broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed skin. Reapply as the label directs. Offer water and cool breaks; sunscreen does not prevent heat illness or burns from hot surfaces.
In this guide · 7 sections
Keep in mind
- Combine shade, clothing, a hat and correctly used sunscreen.
- Offer water and cool breaks, especially during hot weather.
- Check play equipment and car-seat parts for heat; never leave a child in a parked car.
How can you combine layers of sun protection?
Choose shade, particularly between 11am and 3pm from March to October in the UK. Use suitable covering clothing and a wide-brimmed hat. Choose sunscreen labelled at least SPF 30 with at least 4-star UVA protection; do not rely on sunscreen alone.
How can you apply sunscreen to an active toddler?
Make it part of getting ready to go out. Apply enough to all exposed skin, including the face, ears, feet and backs of hands, and follow the product directions. Reapply every two hours and straight after water, towelling or sweating, even if it is water resistant. Avoid inhaling spray and do not spray directly onto the face.
How can you reduce heat and dehydration risks?
Young children are more vulnerable in a heatwave. Offer regular cool drinks, stay in shade between 11am and 3pm and avoid activity that makes your child hotter. Move them somewhere cool if they feel unwell. Confusion, fainting, seizure or severe breathing difficulty needs emergency help.
Check slides, artificial turf, sand and car-seat buckles before use. Never leave a child alone in a parked car, even briefly.
What should you do if your child gets sunburned?
Move your child out of the sun, cool sore skin with cool water and offer fluids. Seek medical help if your child feels unwell or the skin swells badly or blisters. Keep them out of the sun until redness has gone.
When to seek support
Some signs need emergency help; other concerns can be discussed with your child’s healthcare team.
- Call 999 for confusion, fainting, seizure, difficulty breathing or a child who is becoming less responsive in the heat.
- Seek medical advice for blistering sunburn, severe pain, fever, vomiting or inability to drink.
- Very little urine, dry mouth or unusual sleepiness may indicate dehydration.
Sources used for this guide
- American Academy of Pediatrics / HealthyChildren.org — HealthyChildren – Sun Safety: Information for Parents About Sunburn & Sunscreen
- www.nhs.uk — regional guidance
- www.nhs.uk — regional guidance
English editorial review:
The English text and regional guidance have been checked editorially. This is not an individual clinical assessment.
Luluna provides general parenting information. It does not diagnose conditions or replace your child’s healthcare professional.
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