Turkey's Health Ministry issues summer safety guidelines for children

The Turkish Health Ministry released a detailed guide for families as children begin their summer holidays. It urges parents to limit screen time, ensure regular sleep schedules, and promote balanced nutrition by avoiding processed and high‑sugar foods while encouraging fresh fruits, vegetables and protein. Children should be active outdoors for at least 60 minutes a day, with protective measures when the sun is strongest between 11:00 – 16:00. The ministry also stresses the importance of social interaction, safe group activities and focusing on a child’s effort rather than grades.

Separately, the Personal Data Protection Authority warned that increased device use during the break raises risks of cyber‑bullying, phishing and exposure to inappropriate content. It recommends that parents adjust privacy settings, use parental‑control tools, monitor online activity and educate children about online threats. Together, the guidance aims to protect children’s physical, mental and digital wellbeing throughout the summer vacation period.