Your summer guide to family health

Helping you hop, skip and jump your way to a healthier summer.

Published on 10/8/2022
Clinically reviewed on 10/8/2022 by Bryony Lathbury

It’s that time of year again, summer.

School's out, the sun is (hopefully) shining, and an extra ball or two is thrown into the life juggle of those with childcare responsibilities! There’s so much to think about; How do you afford to keep everyone healthy and happy, especially with the cost of living continuing to soar? How do you coax your little darlings away from their screens to be active? How will you keep everyone occupied the whole summer? Should you all be wearing sunscreen, even on a cloudy day? You’re working and Grandparents could be on hand, but are they physically healthy enough?

Fear not. Simplyhealth has got you and your family's heads, shoulders, knees, and toes covered! Read on to our Family Health guide to find out how.

Daughter on mothers shoulders in a field of flowers

Sun safety for the whole family

Getting out and about during the summer is brilliant for mental wellbeing as well as making memories with the family. One thing to consider though is the sun. The bright ball in the sky that, occasionally, makes an appearance in the British summertime. You need to make sure you're protected against it and be aware of what to look out for.

That's why we've written our Family sun safety article, to share a few tips for you to think about before heading out. We look at how you can stay safe in the sun, the signs of skin cancer, and what to do if you notice a suspicious mark. Remember it's always better to get that type of thing checked, it's not worth putting it off or ignoring.

Little girl at the beach protected from the sun with her hat on

How you and the family can look after yourselves this summer, whether in the UK or abroad.

How a health plan can help the kids this summer

There are a few questions parents ask themselves that wouldn't have even been a consideration before the kids arrived. Things like should their snot be that colour? Or are all kids as clumsy as mine? The good thing is you aren't alone asking them, and there's help out there.

We've explored some of the reasons why adding your children to your health plan might be a good idea, and it's not just for answers to the questions we just mentioned (an online GP appointment can help with the snot and yes, kids are clumsy).

In our article, we look at prescription goggles for the swimming pool, dentist-fitted mouth guards for sport, physiotherapy to keep them moving, and more.

Boy on his mountain bike with his dad wearing a helmet

Discover the benefits of having your children on your health plan, including access to online GP appointments and physiotherapy.

Counselling for 16+ teens

When life gets a little overwhelming, qualified professionals are just a phone call away for Simplyhealth health plan holders, and their family and over 16 year old dependants who are named on their plan.

We make it simple for you and your family to stay mentally fit and healthy with our 24/7 counselling and advice services.

Using an online GP abroad

Home or away, the 24/7 online family doctor can see you today.

We offer our customers the SimplyPlan app. This is where you can access our 24/7 online GP service, wherever you are in the world, giving you peace of mind in your pocket (on your smartphone), whether you’re at home or abroad.

Woman sunbathing on beach with smart phone

Discover how you can access the benefits of having an online GP in your pocket, wherever you are.

Planning an activity-filled summer

Struggling for plans over the summer? Or looking for a bit of inspiration to get active? We've looked through the archives to bring you our favourite summer tips.

Mum and daughter walking along the beach

Getting active by the sea

The beach is an ideal place to get you moving, from swimming in the sea to playing in the sand, or walking on the promenade – there’s something for everyone. And so many ways to get your heart pumping, while having fun!

The joy of walking this summer

Making your walking routine more exciting is a fantastic way to help improve your mental and physical health this summer.

We've discovered six boredom-busters to jazz up your summer walks.

Hosting your own sports day

Stuck for ideas on how to keep the kids entertained? Look no further; try setting up your own mini sports day. It can be just a family fun day, or you could invite friends or neighbours along too.

Heather Fisher playing in the garden during the summer

The magic of movement with a rugby pro

Last year we had the pleasure of sitting down with rugby player Heather Fisher to find out how she spent her downtime in the summer months. It all followed a similar trend, escaping the everyday!

Osgood-Schlatter's Disease: The causes & treatment

Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease (OSD) is inflammation of the growth plate at the top of the tibia, or shin bone, usually where the tendon meets the bone at the front of the knee.

Take a look at what causes OSD, most common symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

Discover how you can access our video GP and video physiotherapy assessment services.