Lifestyle 6 – Sun protection and young children – Factsheet

Protect Early. Prevent Cancer Later. 

Children can get sunburnt in as little as 10 to 15 minutes of unprotected sun exposure. Their skin is thinner and more sensitive than adult skin, making it highly vulnerable to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. 

Sunburn during childhood increases the risk of skin cancer later in life, which is why sun protection from an early age is so important. 

This factsheet provides clear, practical guidance for parents, educators, caregivers, and anyone caring for young children; helping them stay sun safe and make confident sun protection decisions every day. 

Readers will Discover: 

• Why children’s skin is more vulnerable to UV damage 
• How to safely choose and apply sunscreen for young children 
• How to protect children outdoors and support sun-safe play environments 

This Factsheet is Perfect For: 

• GP Clinics and Health Services 
• Workplaces and Offices 
• Schools and Early Childhood Settings  
• Community Centers and outreach programs 
• Gyms, Sport Clubs and outdoor recreational activities 
• Events and Expos 
• Local Government, Libraries and Councils 
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Services 
• Rural and Remote health services  
• Pharmacies and Allied Health Clinics 
• Cancer Support Groups and Community Organisations 
  

Order printed copies of this factsheet today.