A few tips to keep the kids smiling in the sun....

Teach kids about the sun - once children understand that the sun is both lovely but can cause pain they are so much more willing to go through the hassle of putting on cream, hats etc. I found that teaching them that its good and yet must be respected and getting into a summer time going out routine really helped.

Summer can be fun - get excited about going out to play and they will too. Once they know what has to be done to go outside (drink, creams, suits etc) the positives out weigh the hassle factor.

Engage with nature - its not for everyone I know but it can be great fun going out to explore nature. Finding bugs, looking for butterflies, seeing how the plants change with the seasons and so on is a great way to teach kids how the world works and can provide a purpose or focus for an outing.

Encourage your children to say how they feel - kids can get thoroughly carried away with the excitement and forget they are hungry, thirsty or indeed tired. Whilst its great to stay out for as long as possible to make the most of the sun, it can so quickly turn into a drama for all concerned if the children become over tired or de-hydrated.

Drink lots - keep the kids drinking, and you for that matter! There is no real substitute for water as it re-hydrates quicker and its cheap! De-hydration creeps up very quickly and make you feel awful so the best way to avoid it is to drink little and often. You can get some great, inexpensive steel flasks now that will keep a couple of litres cool for hours so its an easy way to make sure fluid is on hand for the family.