Australia’s sun is no joke — we all know that. It’s strong, intense, and can be pretty harsh on adult skin. Children’s skin would certainly not fare any better. That’s why teaching kids early to stay safe in the sun is one of the best lessons we can give them. If they grow up understanding why sun safety matters and how to protect themselves, they’re more likely to keep good habits for life.
We need to chat about how parents can make sun safety a natural part of everyday life — without turning it into a lecture or a chore!
To start, here at Marmalade Lion too, we take sun safety seriously. Our SPF50+ Wide Brimmed Expect-A-Spill Children’s Sun Hat gives great cover for your little one no matter where in Australia they go. But today, we’re going to discuss a full-scope plan for kids’ sun protection – and how to get them trained for sun safety without compromise.
Grab a notebook and some tea. It’s time to get started!
Start With the Basics Early
Even toddlers can start learning about the sun. You don’t need to explain UV rays to a two-year-old, but you can say things like, “We wear hats to keep our heads safe from the very hot sun,” or “Sunscreen helps our skin stay healthy.” Simple, relatable messages stick with kids, especially when repeated often and positively.
By introducing the basics of sun safety early on, like wearing hats, using sunscreen, and staying in the shade, you’re laying the groundwork for habits that will eventually become second nature.
Be a Role Model – The Most Effective Teaching Method
Kids are little sponges. If they see you being sun smart, they’re much more likely to copy you. If you reach for your hat, sunnies and sunscreen before heading out, they’ll start doing the same — or at least want to!
Make it part of the routine. Sunscreen on before shoes go on, or grabbing a wide-brimmed SPF50+ sun hat before heading out the door. You don’t have to make a big deal of it — just be consistent, and they’ll want follow your lead.
Make It Fun
Most kids aren’t thrilled about sunscreen. Adults aren’t either. Sunscreen feels sticky, it takes time, and sometimes it ends up in their eyes (ouch!). And the higher the SPF, the stickier the sunblock! But with a little creativity, sun safety can be part of the fun rather than a battle.
Try
- Letting kids pick their own sun hat with fun colours or characters.
- Making a “fun sunscreen” routine (help them dab it in while both of you sing a song).
- Using spray-on or roll-on sunscreens for quicker application (although lotions still give the best coverage)
- Getting them involved – “Can you help me put sunscreen on your arms?”
Even letting them apply a bit on your arm first can make it a game rather than a hassle. That way they won’t feel alone in it.
Teach the “Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide” Message
You probably grew up with this catchy phrase, and it's still going strong. The classic Aussie sun safety slogan has expanded over the years — now it’s…
- Slip on protective clothing
- Slop on some sunscreen
- Slap on a hat
- Seek shade
- Slide on sunnies
Break this down for kids and explain what each one means. Use real-life situations — like heading to the park or beach — to run through each step.
You could even create a little checklist or poster to keep near the door so they can “tick off” each one before heading out.
Dress Them for Success
The clothes your kids wear can make a huge difference. Long-sleeve rashies, lightweight cotton tops, and wide-brimmed hats all help protect their delicate skin. There are heaps of brands now offering cute, comfy, sun-safe clothing, so you don’t have to sacrifice style for safety.
Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating for extra peace of mind — and don’t forget that even babies need coverage when they’re out and about.
Make Shade Their Friend
Kids love to run around, but try to encourage play in shaded areas when possible — especially during peak sun hours (10AM–3PM). Teach them to look for shade under a tree, a beach umbrella, or a shade tent at the park, make shade part of your play plan. But, in general, build the habit of taking your kids out only after 4:30 PM. They’ll get used to it too – but make sure they follow sun safety rules even at that time.
You could even turn it into a bit of an adventure – “Let’s set up our picnic under this big shady tree” or “Let’s make a cool cubby in the shade!”
Pack a Sun-Safe Kit
If you’re off to daycare, the beach, or a family walk, a little “sun-safe kit” can go a long way. Keep a small bag or pouch ready with –
- A small bottle of sunscreen
- A wide-brimmed hat
- Sunglasses
- A light long-sleeved shirt
- A refillable water bottle
- Maybe even a mini mist spray bottle for hot days
Having this on hand means you’re never caught off guard, and you’ll be showing your kids how to be prepared too.
Use Positive Reinforcement
Whenever your child remembers to put on their hat or reapply sunscreen without prompting, give them a bit of praise. “Great job! You wore your sun hat all day!” or “You’re so sun smart!” helps reinforce the behaviour and makes them feel proud.
For older kids, you can start talking more about why we do all this — that sunburn hurts, that too much sun can damage our skin, and that looking after ourselves now keeps us healthy later on.
Use Books & Shows to Back You Up
Sometimes it helps to have a little outside support! Look for children’s books or TV shows that touch on sun safety. Characters they love — whether it’s Bluey, Play School, or even Peppa Pig — can help deliver the same messages you’re giving at home.
Some schools and childcare centres also do lessons around sun safety, so ask your educators what they’re teaching, and reinforce it at home.
Remember — It’s About Progress, Not Perfection
There’ll be days when you forget the sunscreen or your kid refuses to wear their hat. That’s life. What matters most is consistency over time. The more sun safety becomes a normal part of your family’s routine, the easier it gets.
By teaching kids to respect the sun — rather than fear it — you're giving them the tools to enjoy all the amazing outdoor adventures Australia offers, safely and confidently.
Maybe you’re heading to the beach, the footy, or just the backyard, slip, slop, slap, seek and slide — and bring the kids along for the (sun-safe) ride.
