Babies under 12 months should be kept out of the sun and in the shade at all times. If you're out and about use a buggy parasol or portable sunshade.

Keep kids out of the sun during the hottest part of the day (usuallly between 11am and 3pm). Remember, the younger the child the more they are at risk; so limit sun exposure for toddlers.

Whack on sunscreen with a high protection factor (SPF) at least 20/30 minutes before you go out to give it time to sink into the skin. Apply generously and reapply frequently. Remember often-overlooked areas, like necks, ears, back of knees etc. Choose waterproof products: sweat can wash off regular ones. If the kids go in the water reapply sunscreen as soon as they get out.

For kids that hate having sunscreen applied - and boy, can they make a deal out of it - look for products offering longevity. Some provide all day protection (although don't take this as a given).

Remember, even when they're in the shade, they're still at risk. UV rays can reflect off sand, water... even concrete.

Don't rely on sunscreen alone. Get them to cover up with loose fitting cotton clothing, (but remember wet clothing offers less protection so if they swim in a t-shirt change it when they get out).

Even better, invest in some UV beachware that will protect them both in and out of the water. Worth every penny in my book. Loads of funky brands are now available; unsurprisingly some of the best quality are Australian - a nation that's particularly sun aware. Choose brands offering an ultra-violet protection factor (UPF) of 50+ and follow manufacturers recommendations re' washing and drying.

UV protective, pop-up cabanas which offer both shade and shelter and pack down to nothing are a good buy. Great for babies, buy a big one so you can fit in it too (back home the kids can use it as a pop-up tent!).

Make kids wear a wide-brimmed hat. No arguments. Sunstroke is foul.

Keep their fluids intake up to help prevent dehydration/sunstroke.

Decent sunglasses are just as important for little eyes as old ones. They don't have to be designer, but they do have to offer 100% UVA and UVB protection, so check before you buy. Avoid "toy sunglasses" - ones that are simply darkened lenses. These can actually result in more eye damage than wearing no sunglasses at all, because the dark lenses can encourage the pupil to open wider, letting more UV into the eye.

Don't be fooled by overcast or windy days - you're still at risk. Up to 80% of UV rays can get through light cloud and all wind does is cool your skin down and give you a false sense of security.

Make sure you take sunscreen with you whenever you go out - you're just at risk in town as you are on the beach.

Teach kids the slip, slop, slap rule from early on - slip on a shirt; slop on sunscreen and slap on a hat - just like learning to cross the road, it's a valuable lesson for life.

Abigail Flanagan
Travel Editor, mumsnet.com