Warmer holiday destinations warrants extra protection from the sun
If you’re like many parents who live in the southern states of Australia, Winter is cold so choosing a holiday destination often means going somewhere where it’s warm and the family can enjoy outdoor activities. But with warmer temperatures come the increased risk of sunburn for your children, which makes it essential to take extra measures to protect them from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays while out in the great outdoors. In this blog post, our Early Childhood Education and Care students provide some valuable tips on combining both fun and safety into their outdoor adventures. We’ll discuss how to prevent sunburn through protective clothing, sunscreen usage, and more – as well as what treatments have proven effective when your little one ends up with a burn despite all your precautions!
Prevention Tips:
- Seek Shade: Encourage your child to play in shaded areas, especially during peak sunlight hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Trees, umbrellas, and purpose-built shade structures can provide much-needed protection from direct sunlight.
- Slip on Protective Clothing: Dress your child in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs. Opt for tightly woven fabrics, as they offer better UV protection. Additionally, wide-brimmed hats that shade the face, neck, and ears are essential.
- Apply Sunscreen: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Apply it generously to all exposed areas of your child’s skin, including the face, ears, and back of the neck. Reapply every two hours or more frequently if your child is swimming or sweating.
- Use Sunglasses: Protect your child’s eyes from harmful UV rays by providing them with sunglasses that meet Australian standards for UV protection. Look for sunglasses labelled with an Eye Protection Factor (EPF) of 9 or 10.
Treatment Tips:
- Cool Compresses: If your child experiences sunburn, immediately cool the affected areas with cool (not cold) water compresses or a cool bath. Avoid using ice or very cold water, as it can further damage the skin.
- Moisturize: Apply a soothing, fragrance-free moisturizer or aloe vera gel to relieve the discomfort of sunburned skin. Avoid using petroleum-based products, as they can trap heat and prolong healing.
- Hydrate: Sunburn can dehydrate the body, so encourage your child to drink plenty of water to replenish lost fluids. Offer small, frequent sips if they are reluctant to drink.
- Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. However, always consult a healthcare professional before giving any medication to your child.
- Seek Medical Advice: If your child’s sunburn is severe, blistering, or accompanied by symptoms like fever or dehydration, seek medical advice promptly.
Protecting your child from sunburn in Australia is crucial for their health and well-being. You can reduce the risk of sunburn by following these prevention tips, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and using sunglasses. In the event of sunburn, promptly treat the affected areas with cool compresses, moisturizers, and hydration. Remember, if the sunburn is severe or accompanied by concerning symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for appropriate guidance. By taking these preventive measures and offering prompt treatment, you can ensure your child enjoys the beautiful Australian outdoors while keeping their skin safe from harmful UV rays.
In conclusion, Cire Training offers a range of Early Learning and Childhood Education courses designed to provide you with the skills and knowledge to help others grow and develop. These courses provide an opportunity to pursue a meaningful career in an industry with increasing demand. If you would like to gain the qualifications necessary to succeed in this field, click here to learn more about Cire’s courses in Early learning and childcare. With these qualifications, you can open the doors to many rewarding opportunities