The warmer weather is here and the summer holidays are just around the corner, so now is the perfect opportunity to educate the next generation about sun safety. Let's empower our kids so that they can have fun in the sun without the worry of damaging their delicate skin.
Education
If your children are aged seven or older I would recommend having a chat with them about sun safety, making them aware of the dangers, so that they understand why keeping safe is important. Teaching them how to apply sun cream is also a good idea - there may be occasions when you're not with them, such as a school trip, when they need to protect themselves.
Don't just talk about sun cream, discuss the importance of sunglasses, hats and staying in the shade - you'll be giving them the tools to look after their skin for years to come.
Preparation is key
Once you arrive at the park or beach the kids will be far too excited to stand still let alone let you smother sun cream all over them! So, be prepared and do it before you leave home, better still - do it as they're getting dressed. That way they are well protected and can enjoy the sun straight away.
However, this is easier said than done, the majority of children avoid sun cream at all costs! Try to make it part of their daily routine during the summer, so that it becomes as natural as putting on their socks. Better still, make it fun by creating your own game, try pretending that the sun cream is a magical protective layer that will give them super powers, or squirt them all over saying that it's Frozen Elsa's ice powers to keep them cool.
Break it up
I wouldn't recommend that anyone stays out in the sun all day, especially between the hours of 11-2pm, when the sun is at its hottest. To encourage your kids to escape the heat when you're out and about, create your own shady spot with a pop-up shelter and tell them that this is where they need to sit when they're having a drink or some food.
A parasol is also good for the beach, encourage them to build their sandcastles in the shade!
When at home, create a 'cool room' in your house. Go for the coldest room, draw the curtains and place a fan inside. Have fun with it and say that it's the magical cooling cave for when the sun gets too hot. It will be the perfect place to retreat once they get hot and bothered. Whenever they're having a break, encourage them to drink plenty of water to ensure they keep hydrated.
How much?
Two tablespoons of sun cream should be ample to cover and protect your child's face and body. You should reapply the same amount of sun cream every two hours, but if they have been splashing about in the water make sure that it is reapplied straight away. It is not always convenient to reapply, so Calypso Once a Day Lotion contains a specially enhanced formula, makes lasts longer than other sun creams, meaning your child will be protected for the whole day.
For further skincare tips follow Seena Seka on Twitter: @seenaseka