The Aussie sun is beautiful, but it’s no joke. Most of us grew up hearing “Slip, Slop, Slap” from every direction — and there’s a good reason for it. Australia has some of the highest UV levels in the world, which means our kids need to learn sun safety from the get-go. The earlier they understand how to protect their skin, the more likely they are to build lifelong habits that will keep them safe and healthy.

How do you teach kids about sun safety without making it scary or overwhelming? Baby Gifts Australia is here to break it down for you.

Start the Conversation Early

Little kids don’t need to understand the science of UV rays to start learning how to look after themselves. Even toddlers can grasp the basics if you explain it in a fun and simple way. Try saying things like –

• “The sun is really strong today, so we need our hats to protect our heads.”
• “Sunscreen is like a magic shield that keeps our skin safe.”

By using positive language and focusing on why we do these things, you help kids associate sun safety with something helpful and caring — not just another rule they have to follow.

Make Sunscreen Part of the Routine

The best way to make sunscreen a habit is to build it into your daily routine, just like brushing teeth. Keep a bottle near the front door, in your bag, or in the car so it’s always on hand.

For younger kids, turn it into a game — use a special song while applying it, or let them “help” by rubbing it on their arms. As they get older, encourage them to start applying it themselves with supervision.

And don’t forget to reapply every two hours — especially after swimming or sweating. A quick top-up can save you from dealing with cranky, sunburned kids later!

Sun Hats Are Non-Negotiable

Getting your child to wear a hat can be a challenge, but it’s one of the most effective ways to protect their face, ears and neck — areas that are often exposed to the sun.

Wide-brimmed or legionnaire-style hats offer the best protection, and many early learning centres and schools have a “no hat, no play” policy for good reason.

Let kids pick their own hat with colours or characters they like — it gives them a sense of ownership and makes it more likely they’ll keep it on. If they’re still resistant, be consistent – “We wear hats when we go outside. That’s just what we do.”

Dress Them Sun Smart

Clothing is a powerful tool for sun safety. Long-sleeved tops made from lightweight, breathable fabric can help protect their arms without making them too hot. Rashies with UPF ratings are essential for water play and swimming, especially at the beach or pool.

Look for clothes with darker colours and tighter weaves, which offer better protection than thin, light fabrics. And if your child is into fashion, let them help choose sun-smart gear — there's heaps of stylish, protective clothing available for kids these days.

Shade is Your Best Friend

No matter where you are – at the park, beach, or backyard – try to set up base in the shade. Bring a beach tent or umbrella, find a tree, or sit under a shelter whenever possible — especially between 10AM and 4PM, when the UV is at its peak.

When you can, encourage your kids to play in shaded areas. Make it part of the fun: “Let’s build a cubby under the tree” or “Let’s have our snack in the cool shady spot.”

Teaching them to seek shade is a great habit that’ll stick with them as they grow older.

Slide on Those Sunnies

Kids’ eyes are just as sensitive to UV as their skin, but sunnies often get overlooked. Look for sunglasses that meet the Australian Standard for UV protection and have a good wraparound fit to block out those sneaky side rays.

Again, let them choose a pair they like. If they feel cool wearing them, they’ll be more likely to keep them on.

If your child wears glasses, ask your optometrist about UV-protective lenses or clip-on shades. Even something small like this helps create a full sun-smart routine.

Know Your UV Index

We’ve got access to loads of handy tools in Australia, and the UV Index is one of the best. It tells you how strong the UV radiation is on any given day — and it’s not always about how hot it feels. You can have a cool day with dangerously high UV.

Check the UV levels each morning using apps like SunSmart or the Bureau of Meteorology website. If it’s 3 or above, it’s time to bring out the sun protection — regardless of whether it feels sunny or overcast.

Be a Sun Smart Role Model

Kids learn by watching, so make sure they see you practising what you preach. If you’re throwing on a hat, reaching for sunscreen, and seeking out shade, they’ll follow your lead.

Use “we” language to reinforce that sun safety is something the whole family does together –
“We always wear sunscreen when we go outside.”
“Let’s put on our sunnies before we head to the park.”

This makes it feel normal, not like a punishment or something just for them.

Praise, Don’t Panic

When your child remembers to bring their hat or reminds you to reapply sunscreen, give them a high-five or a little cheer. Positive reinforcement builds their confidence and makes them feel proud of making smart choices.

If they do get a little sunburned — and we know it happens a lot — stay calm. Use it as a learning moment. “That’s why we need to remember our hats and sunscreen next time.”

It’s all part of helping them build awareness, without shame or fear.

Teaching sun safety isn’t about wrapping kids in cotton wool and looking up in fear — it’s about giving them the tools to enjoy our beautiful outdoors safely. When it’s just part of your everyday family life, it becomes second nature.

So, whenever you’re heading to the beach, school, or just out for a stroll, remember the five S’s:
Slip on a shirt,
Slop on sunscreen,
Slap on a hat,
Seek shade, and
Slide on sunnies.

Your kids will thank you later — and their future skin will too.