Top tips for putting suncream on your child
We all know that it can be a bit of an effort getting your child to wear suncream, but it's important to do it to avoid sunburn.
It's important to buy one which has a high SPF - buy one that's specific for kids or factor 50+. Don't choose one that has an SPF factor of less than 30 - even if your child has olive skin.
Remember it's not just on holiday that you need to put suncream on your child, but whenever the sun is out. During the summer months you'll also need to apply it before your child goes to school and your teacher will probably ask you to put a high factor lotion in his bag so that it can be applied when necessary. Follow the instructions on the bottle carefully; it's always better to put on too much than too little. Here we provide some tips for how to make the process of applying suncream as painless as possible:
1) Put it on before heading out so that you don't have to do it once you're at the beach (although obviously you'll need to reapply it later)
2) Get your child to put on his own suncream, as he will feel more grown-up and in charge. You can apply your own at the same time (lead by example!) and whoever does the best job and applies it to all areas carefully - making sure it's well rubbed in - gets a prize.
3) Make a game of it; when putting cream on your child you can squirt it in funny patterns eg smiley faces as long as it's all rubbed in thoroughly.
4) Buy a coloured suncream; this will be more fun than plain old white and your child will be intrigued.
5) Buy a suncream that has a nice scent as it's more likely to appeal to your child.
6) Some children prefer spray rather than rub-in lotions, as they are less sticky and greasy.
Debbie, 28, from Newcastle, mum to Charlie, 4:
"I used to have a nightmare putting suncream on my little boy. I would literally have to chase him around the apartment with the bottle of sun cream and he would create such a fuss. My friend came up with the idea of a reward chart; whenever he sits still and lets me apply it, he gets a gold star. Works a treat."
Florence, mum to Lottie, 3:
"My daughter absolutely hated the sight of suncream and would have a huge tantrum whenever I tried to put it on her. By the time I finished with her, she looked like the greased pig at the country fair! I decided to let her have a go at applying it herself - carefully monitored by me of course - and she seemed much happier. She's a very independent little thing and I think through letting her to take charge, she feels like a little grown-up."
Cara, mum to Isobel, 5:
"I tend to go for a brightly coloured sun cream with a nice fruity smell and then Isobel doesn't object so much. I let her apply mine as well, which she finds very funny! She makes funny faces with the cream and takes real pride in the whole operation!"
The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.
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Last Modified: 10/07/2008
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