There’s nothing quite like an Aussie summer. Long days, salty hair, and kids running around in the sunshine. But as lovely as it is, the summer heat can be harsh, and a few simple habits can make all the difference in keeping our families safe and comfortable.
We all know how quickly the sun can burn us here in Australia. Sun protection is needed whenever the UV index hits 3 or above and that’s most days, even when it’s a bit cloudy. Before heading out, check the UV rating on the free SunSmart app or the Bureau of Meteorology website. It’s a quick step that can save you from a world of hot ouch later on.
Remember This… Slip, Slop, Slap?
If you grew up in Australia, you probably remember the cheerful jingle from the classic Slip, Slop, Slap campaign… it’s been around since the 1980s, and for good reason! It even got a revamp to include seek and slide.
- Slip on a shirt – light, long-sleeved cotton ones are great for keeping cool.
- Slop on a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+ if you can). Pop it on 20 minutes before heading outside and don’t forget to reapply every couple of hours, especially if the kids are swimming or sweaty.
- Slap on a hat that shades the face, neck and ears – the bigger the brim, the better.
- Seek shade where you can.
- Slide on sunglasses to protect those little eyes.
For babies under six months, it’s best to keep them out of direct sunlight altogether as their skin is super sensitive. Light clothing, shade and a hat will do the trick.
When the temperature climbs, remember to beat the heat as well as the UV. Encourage regular water breaks as kids can get dehydrated before they realise it. Try frozen fruit or icy poles for extra fun. If you can, plan outdoor play for the morning or late afternoon and escape to the aircon during the middle of the day.
Make it fun and part of the routine. Let your child pick their own bright hat or a sunscreen that smells nice. Praise them when they remember their hat or water bottle…little wins go a long way.
With a bit of planning, your family can enjoy the sunshine safely and still soak up every bit of summer fun without the sunburn tears.
Sources: Cancer Council Australia, SunSmart, Bureau of Meteorology, Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network.
