🕷️ Ticks Are Becoming More Common
Ticks are small, but their impact can be big — especially for children who spend more time outdoors in parks, gardens, fields, and woodland.
With warmer UK temperatures and rising wildlife populations, tick encounters are increasing every year.
Here’s everything you need to know to keep your children safe.
✅ What Are Ticks and Why Are They a Risk?
Ticks are tiny spider-like parasites that attach to skin and feed on blood.
Some ticks can transmit infections such as:
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Lyme disease
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Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE)
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Babesiosis (rare in the UK)
Most bites are harmless — but prevention is essential.
✅ Where Are Ticks Found in the UK?
Ticks are most common in:
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Woodlands
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Public parks
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Long grass and meadows
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Campsites
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Gardens near woodland or wildlife
Peak season runs from March to October, but winter sightings are now more common.
👶 Why Kids Are at Higher Risk
Children are more likely to:
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Play in grass
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Sit on the ground
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Crawl through vegetation
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Touch pets that may carry ticks indoors
That’s why parental awareness is crucial.
✅ How to Protect Children From Ticks
1. Use a Natural Tick Repellent
Citriodiol® (PMD) repels ticks effectively while being gentle on skin.
✅ Try: Camo® Family Spray — DEET-free, skin-safe, and long-lasting.
Apply to legs, arms, ankles, and neck.
2. Dress Children Smartly
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Light-coloured clothing (ticks are easier to spot)
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Long sleeves + trousers
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Tuck trousers into socks on hikes
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Treat clothing with Camo® Fabric Spray for up to 30 days of protection
3. Stay on Clear Paths
Avoid long grass, deep leaves, and overgrown areas when walking.
4. Do a Daily Tick Check
After being outdoors, check your child’s:
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Hairline
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Behind ears
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Underarms
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Around waist
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Back of knees
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Ankles
Ticks can be tiny — sometimes the size of a poppy seed.
5. Shower Immediately After Being Outside
This helps wash off any ticks that haven’t attached yet.
✅ What to Do If You Find a Tick
Stay calm — it’s easy to handle.
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Use a tick removal tool or pointed tweezers.
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Grip the tick close to the skin.
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Pull upwards slowly and steadily.
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Clean with soap and warm water.
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Watch for rash or fever for 30 days.
Do NOT twist, burn, or squeeze the tick — it increases infection risk.
✅ Final Thoughts
Ticks are a growing issue, but they’re easy to manage with the right habits.
A natural repellent + the right clothing = confident outdoor play all spring and summer.
