School bag checklist: staying cool, comfortable, and confident at school

Summer can be an exciting time for children, but for those living with eczema, hot weather, outdoor activities, and environmental triggers such as pollen, sweat, or friction from clothing can lead to flare-ups. For parents, ensuring your child stays protected and comfortable during the school day adds an extra layer of concern. With careful preparation and support from school staff, many of these challenges can be managed successfully. This checklist is designed to help families prepare for a smooth, eczema-friendly school day.

Pack in the school bag

Make sure your child has these essential items each day:

☐ Brimmed hat – A hat with a wide brim protects the face, neck, and scalp from sun exposure during outdoor play or PE lessons, reducing the risk of sun-related flare-ups.

☐ Moisturiser – A small, clearly labelled jar allows for reapplication if skin becomes dry or itchy. Check with the school about safe storage and whether a teacher or school nurse can assist if needed.

☐ High-factor sunscreen (SPF 50+) – Choose a mineral-based, fragrance-free sunscreen designed for sensitive or eczema-prone skin. Applying sunscreen over moisturiser can help protect the skin without causing irritation.

☐ Water bottle – Staying hydrated supports overall skin health, helps regulate body temperature, and can reduce the likelihood of sweat-induced flare-ups.

Apply before school

A few simple steps in the morning can help prevent discomfort during the day:

☐ Moisturiser – Apply first thing in the morning, and wait at least 20 minutes before applying sunscreen. This allows the moisturiser to soak in and reduces the risk of irritation.

☐ Sunscreen – Use a fragrance-free, mineral-based sunscreen, particularly on areas prone to sun exposure such as the face, ears, neck, and hands.

☐ Cotton clothing – Lightweight, loose-fitting clothes made from breathable natural fibres help regulate body temperature and reduce friction on the skin, which can trigger flare-ups. Avoid synthetic fabrics directly on the skin whenever possible.

Discuss with your child’s teacher

Open communication with school staff is essential for helping children with eczema manage triggers and feel supported:

☐ Inform the teacher of your child’s specific eczema triggers, including heat, pollen, grass, stress, or certain fabrics.

☐ Ask about access to cool indoor spaces or shaded areas during breaks or on particularly hot days.

☐ Clarify who can assist with reapplying moisturiser or sunscreen during the day, and confirm whether your child can manage this independently.

☐ Consider providing a simple written care plan outlining key steps for flare-up management during school hours, including when and how to reapply treatments.

With this checklist, your child will be better prepared for a comfortable school day during summer. By planning ahead, packing essential items, preparing the skin in the morning, and keeping teachers informed, children with eczema can enjoy their day, stay cool and comfortable, and focus on learning and having fun. Small steps like these make a significant difference in helping children feel confident and supported while managing their skin condition.