Babies under six months old should always be kept out of direct sunlight. At this age, their skin contains very little melanin, which is the pigment that gives us some natural protection from the sun. Even short exposure to the sun’s rays can cause damage to a baby’s skin.

Try to plan outdoor time for early in the morning or later in the afternoon, when the sun is lower in the sky and UV levels are not as intense. The hours between 11am and 3pm are usually when the sun is at its strongest, so avoid being outside during this time if possible. (Shouldnt wear suncream point) (source)

When you are out and about, make sure your baby is shaded using a pram sunshade, a breathable canopy or even a pop-up tent if you are at the beach or in the park. Some sunshades are designed to block UV rays while still allowing air to circulate and windows to open and close. These are great for keeping your baby cool and protected, especially while travelling.

One of the most effective ways to shield your child from the sun is to dress them appropriately. A wide-brimmed hat or a legionnaire-style cap is essential to protect their face, ears, and neck. The earlier you introduce a sun hat, the more likely your child is to keep it on without fuss. Loose-fitting, long-sleeved tops and trousers made from tightly woven fabric offer excellent sun protection, especially in darker colours. If your child’s clothes get wet—after water play or swimming—try to change them into dry ones, as wet fabric can lose much of its UV protection.

Sun cream is an important part of your sun safety routine for children—but it must be used appropriately and only from the right age. For babies under six months , sun cream is not recommended by the NHS, so it’s safer to keep them in the shade and dress them in long, light clothing with a wide brimmed hat.

If your baby is six months or older, you can begin using sun cream on exposed areas of skin. The NHS advises using a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 50 that guards against both UVA and UVB rays . Look for products specifically made for babies and young children—these are often free from harsh chemicals and additives that might irritate delicate skin.

Be generous with application and cover all exposed skin. Apply sun cream around 20 to 30 minutes before going outside , and reapply every two hours . If your child goes swimming or gets sweaty, reapply immediately afterwards, even if the product claims to be water resistant. Sun cream should always be used alongside other sun safety measures like shade and protective clothing - it’s not a reason to stay out in the sun all day.

When you’re out and about in the sunshine, your baby’s pram or pushchair also needs proper protection. The NHS advises attaching a parasol or sunshade to your baby's pushchair to help keep them out of direct sunlight. It’s important not to cover the pram with a blanket or cloth , even a thin one, as this can trap heat and lead to overheating . Instead, use a breathable, UV protective shade that allows for good airflow and doesn’t block ventilation.

Always position the pram or buggy so it faces away from the sun whenever you stop. Check on them regularly to make sure they are not becoming too warm - remember, babies can’t regulate their temperature as easily as adults, so small changes in their environment can affect them more quickly.

While it might be tempting to buy cute, toy-like sunglasses for your toddler, these often do more harm than good. Children’s eyes are especially vulnerable to UV damage, so it’s important to choose sunglasses that offer 100 percent UVA and UVB protection. Look for wraparound designs that stay on securely and offer extra coverage. If your child is swimming outdoors, consider UV protective goggles to keep their eyes safe in and out of the water.

Hydration is especially important in hot weather, as babies and young children are more vulnerable to dehydration. The NHS offers helpful advice based on your child’s age.

For babies aged 0 to 6 months , fully breastfed infants do not need any extra water, even in hot weather, but they may want to breastfeed more often. If you’re bottle feeding , you can offer a little cooled boiled water in addition to their usual milk feeds, especially if they seem thirsty or are waking during the night. Just be sure not to replace milk feeds with water. If you’re unsure what your baby needs, speak to your health visitor or another professional who can give tailored advice.

From around 6 months , once your baby is eating solid foods, you should begin offering sips of water from a cup or beaker with meals . In warmer weather, you may also need to offer small amounts of water between meals. However, breastmilk or formula should still be their main drinks throughout the first year.

Don’t let mild weather fool you. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can still damage skin, even on cloudy or breezy days. In fact, most sun damage in children occurs during everyday activities like playing in the garden, walking to the shops or at the school playground—not just on beach holidays. UV rays can’t be seen or felt, so always check the daily UV index and take precautions when it’s moderate or higher (typically anything above 3). Sunburn can happen quickly, even in the British summer, and the damage it causes builds up over time.

Looking after your baby or child in the sunshine is all about being prepared and making small, thoughtful choices each day. From finding shade and dressing them in protective clothing to using high factor sun cream when needed and making sure they stay hydrated, these simple habits can make a big difference to their comfort and long term health. Whether you are spending time at home, going for a walk or heading on holiday, staying sun aware helps you enjoy the weather safely and confidently. And if you are ever unsure about what your child needs, speaking to a health visitor or another trusted professional can give you extra reassurance. Building good sun safety routines now helps protect your child today and as they grow.