Summer is a magical season for children. It’s that time of year when they spend the most time outdoors—playing in the yard, exploring the forest, enjoying picnics, or vacationing by the water. But this freedom in nature also comes with a few precautions. Between UV rays and pesky insect bites, parents need to stay extra vigilant to ensure the comfort and safety of their little explorers. 

Here’s a complete guide to help your whole family enjoy summer to the fullest—stress-free! 

☀️ 1. How to Protect Effectively from the Sun 

🧴 Apply Sunscreen Properly 

Sunscreen is a must as soon as the sun comes out. For kids, choose a broad spectrum formula (UVA and UVB protection) with SPF 30 at minimum—ideally SPF 50 for toddlers. 

Apply sunscreen: 
🔸 20 to 30 minutes before going outside 
🔸 On all exposed areas (don’t forget ears, neck, and the tops of feet!) 
🔸 Every two hours, and after swimming or heavy sweating 

💡 Tip: Make application fun by turning it into a game or using a tinted sunscreen that fades as you rub it in. 

👒 Choose Protective Clothing 

Clothing is an excellent first line of defense against UV rays. Prioritize: 
🔸 Lightweight but tightly woven fabrics 
🔸 Long sleeves and loose-fitting pants 
🔸 Light colors that absorb less heat 

Some clothing is even made with built-in UV protection—perfect for long days outdoors. 

🧢 Pick the Right Headwear 

A wide-brimmed hat or cap with a neck flap is essential to prevent sunburns on the face, scalp, and neck. For toddlers, opt for a design with a strap to keep it in place. 

🕶️ Don’t Forget Sunglasses 

Children’s eyes are more sensitive to sunlight than adults'. Choose sunglasses with UV400 lenses and frames designed to fit a child’s face comfortably. 

🕛 Avoid Peak Sun Hours 

Between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., the sun’s rays are strongest. When possible, plan outdoor play in the morning or late afternoon, or seek shade under trees or a shelter. 

🦟 2. How to Protect from Biting Insects 

Summer is also the season for mosquitoes, ticks, wasps, and other bugs. To avoid itchy (and sometimes dangerous) bites, take a few simple precautions. 

🧦 Dress Smart 

Even when it’s hot, long and lightweight clothing can protect your child’s skin—especially during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active. For forest walks or grassy areas, long pants and socks are a must to prevent tick bites. 

🧴 Use Age-Appropriate Repellents 

Choose a bug repellent formulated specifically for children. 
For babies under 6 months, avoid chemical repellents and opt for natural protection such as mosquito nets or protective clothing. 
From 6 months on, products with lemon eucalyptus or icaridin are often recommended—always check the label for age suitability. 

🧺 Be Prepared for Nature Outings 

When heading outdoors: 
🔸 Avoid dense vegetation or humid areas in the evening 
🔸 Bring a natural spray to cool off and deter mosquitoes 
🔸 Cover strollers with mosquito nets for babies 

👀 Do a Full-Body Check Afterward 

After playing in nature—especially in forests or tall grass: 
🔸 Check your child’s skin carefully (behind knees, underarms, scalp...) 
🔸 If you find a tick, remove it gently with tweezers made for that purpose 
🔸 Clean the area and monitor for any redness or irritation 

🎒 Must-Haves for the Summer Bag 

Here’s a handy checklist of essentials to pack in your child’s summer bag: 

🧴 High-protection sunscreen 
🦟 Gentle insect repellent 
🧢 Hat or cap with neck protection 
🕶️ Proper-fitting sunglasses 
👕 Lightweight long-sleeve shirt 
🥤 Refillable water bottle 
🧻 Wet wipes and soothing cream 
🩹 Bandages for bug bites 

And for Clothing? Gusti Has You Covered! 

At Gusti, we know summer is for running, climbing, exploring, getting messy... and doing it all over again! Our clothes are made to keep up with kids on all their adventures while offering the protection they need. 

Our summer must-haves: 
🌬️ Lightweight Jacket (girl and boy) – great for protecting your child from wind and light showers without restricting movement 
🧥 The 3-in-1 Jacket (girl and boy) – perfect for outings with unpredictable weather! Wear it as a shell, fleece, or both combined depending on the temperature 
🧸 The Puffer (girl and boy) – ideal for cool evenings, mountain trips, or camping nights. Warm, lightweight, and easy to carry 

With Gusti, your children are fully equipped so they can enjoy summer safely—no matter what the weather brings. 

Summer is a wonderful opportunity for children to build independence, improve motor skills, and let their imagination run wild. By taking just a few simple precautions against sun and insects, you’re giving them the freedom to explore the world—safely and confidently. 

Let the adventure begin! 🌞🦋🌲