THE summer holidays are on the horizon, and if we're lucky this could mean the chance to enjoy some precious family time out in the sun.
Whether you're lucky enough to be going on holiday, or are simply looking forward to chilling at the park or in the garden, catching a few rays is something we all look forward to.
However, for the parents among us, this can also come with a whole host of anxiety around keeping the kids safe and protected while out and about too.
Here, parenting expert Kirsty Ketley shares her advice – from why you should never cover your baby's pram with a blanket, to the danger of buying cheap sunnies…
Life's a beach
Whether you're abroad or simply enjoying a visit to your nearest coastline, a trip to the beach is the perfect way to create family memories.
However the sea can be unpredictable and dangerous, and therefore it's important to be prepared to keep the kids safe.
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Firstly before you even leave the house, think about what your kids are wearing.
For example, just recently a swimming instructor issued a stark warning to parents about the importance of choosing the right colour swimwear for their kids, and why she thinks blue swimsuits are a no-go.
Kirsty says: "At the beach, always dress your child in bright colours and take a photo of them when you arrive, so you have a very up to date photo of them, should they get lost.
"You can buy a wrist band (Little Life do them) which they can wear with contact details and any medical details that could be useful.
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"Have a bright umbrella, tent or windbreaker which is a good point of reference for your child to easily find you.
"Also, teach them to stay between the flags and head to the lifeguard if they get lost.
"Lastly, if you have inflatables, attach a line to them, which you can hold so that your child can play in the sea but not get swept away."
Pram safety
When out and about in the sun we all know staying in the shade and out of direct sunlight is important.
However, Kirsty says: "NEVER cover your baby's pram with a blanket or muslin cloth.
"This can trap heat and cause the pram to soar on temperature, thus making your child overheat.
"Instead, invest in a safety certified shade that allows air to circulate and protects from UV rays."
Throwing shade
It can be tempting to buy cheap sunnies, but actually this could be a huge error if not careful.
Kirsty says: "Beware of cheap sunnies as they can do more harm them good as behind tinted lenses the iris opens to allow more light into the eye.
"If the lens doesn't protect properly, more UV light gets into the eye which can potentially damage it.
"When buying, look for a sticker or tag that stipulates that the sunglasses are UVA and UVB protective.
"Additionally, sun cream should have a high UV protective rating and applied and reapplied according to the bottle instructions.
"You don't have to buy child specific sun cream, just as long as what you buy has a high UV rating and is a minimum of factor 30.
"It's always worth checking skin sensitivity though."
Heat hazards
It's also important not to underestimate how quickly the suns rays can cause everyday kids' equipment to really heat up and become a potential hazard.
Kirsty says: "In cars, make sure seat buckles are not left exposed to the sun, as you can burn your child when putting them in their seat.
"Also be careful with rear facing mirrors – ones you use so you can see your rear facing child – as these can catch fire if left in the sun, so use window shades.
"At the park, although it is best to keep children in the shade between 11am and 3pm when the sun is at its hottest, still always check the equipment temperature before allowing your child to play.
"Slides, swings, climbing equipment all have plastic and metal components, which become extremely hot in the sun and will easily burn your child."
Supervised swimming sessions
A dip in the pool can be the perfect way to cool down, and it goes without saying, should always be supervised.
Just a few inches of water can be deadly.
Kirsty says: "Always keep long hair tied back in the pool and try to keep your child away from playing near the filters where possible.
"If you notice any that are not properly covered, report it."
Tatt's too bad
Finally, temporary tattoos can be fun, and kids absolutely love them – but be careful, especially if on holiday abroad.
Kirsty adds: "Black henna tattoos can cause serious skin reactions.
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"It is best to stick to brown or orange colours which are actual henna.
"Black has chemicals found in hair dye, and is illegal in the UK and Europe."
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