Vitamin D for Kids: A Parent's Guide for the UK & UAE

As the days shorten in the UK, and as families in the UAE spend long stretches of the year indoors in air-conditioned homes, schools and malls, many parents start asking the same question: is my child getting enough vitamin D? This parent's guide explains why vitamin D matters for kids, what official UK guidance says, where vitamin D comes from, and how a daily gummy such as our iKids Multi-Vitamins Gummies can fit into family life.

Why vitamin D matters for children

Vitamin D helps the body use calcium and phosphate, the building blocks of bones and teeth. Under the authorised claims used in the UK and EU:

• Vitamin D is needed for normal growth and development of bone in children.
• Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system.

Childhood is a time of rapid growth, which is why health bodies pay particular attention to vitamin D in the early years.

Where does vitamin D come from?

Sunlight

Most of our vitamin D is made in the skin when it is exposed to sunlight. In the UK, the NHS explains that from around late March to the end of September most people can make enough from sunlight, but from October to early March the sun is not strong enough.

Food

Only a few foods naturally contain useful amounts, including:

• Oily fish such as salmon, sardines and mackerel
• Egg yolks
• Red meat and liver
• Fortified foods, such as some breakfast cereals, fat spreads and formula milk

For many children, especially fussy eaters, food alone may not provide much.

What UK guidance says

The NHS recommends:

• Children aged 1 to 4 years should have a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms (µg) of vitamin D all year round.
• Everyone, including older children, should consider a daily vitamin D supplement during autumn and winter.
• Babies have specific guidance depending on whether they are breastfed or formula-fed, so ask your health visitor.

Sunny climate? Why UAE parents still ask about vitamin D

It is easy to assume that children in the UAE get plenty of vitamin D from the sun. In practice, high summer temperatures mean many children spend much of the day indoors, travel by car, wear covering clothing and use sunscreen, all of which reduce the sunlight reaching the skin. That is why vitamin D is a common topic between parents and paediatricians in the region. If you are unsure about your child's vitamin D status, your paediatrician can advise.

Simple ways to support your child's vitamin D

• Safe outdoor time. Encourage outdoor play when the weather allows, while following sun-safety advice for your climate.
• Vitamin D foods on the menu. Try salmon fishcakes, scrambled eggs or fortified cereals.
• A daily habit. If you choose a supplement, link it to a routine moment such as breakfast.
• Do not double up. Check labels if your child already takes another product containing vitamin D.

How iKids Multi-Vitamins Gummies can help

iKids Multi-Vitamins Gummies are formulated to support healthy growth and everyday vitality in a chewable gummy. According to the product label, a serving provides vitamin D3 15 µg, alongside:

• Vitamin A 300 µg RE, Vitamin C 30 mg, Vitamin E 7.5 mg α-TE, Vitamin K2 20 µg
• B vitamins: B1 0.6 mg, B2 0.6 mg, Niacin 6 mg NE, B6 0.8 mg, Folic Acid 120 µg, B12 2.4 µg, Biotin 20 µg, Pantothenic Acid 3 mg
• Iodine 75 µg, Zinc 5 mg, Selenium 20 µg
• Choline 25 mg, Inositol 10 mg, Lutein 1 mg, Zeaxanthin 200 µg

Other authorised claims relevant to these nutrients include: vitamin C and zinc contribute to the normal function of the immune system.

Please follow the age-appropriate dosage on pack. Gummies contain corn syrup, so encourage good tooth-brushing habits. A supplement should be used as part of a varied, balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

Struggling with lunchboxes? Read our article on why kids don't always eat well at school. For screen-heavy days, you may also like our iKids Eye Care Gummies.

Safety note for parents

• Follow the age-appropriate dosage on pack and do not exceed the recommended dose.
• Gummies look like sweets: store them out of sight and reach of children and give them yourself.
• Avoid giving several supplements that contain the same vitamins unless advised by a health professional.
• If your child has a medical condition, takes medication or has allergies, speak to your doctor, paediatrician or pharmacist first.

Frequently asked questions

Do children need vitamin D in winter?

In the UK, the NHS advises everyone to consider a daily vitamin D supplement in autumn and winter, and recommends a daily 10 µg supplement for children aged 1 to 4 all year.

My child lives in the UAE. Do they still need vitamin D?

Sunshine alone may not be enough if your child spends most of the day indoors. Speak to your paediatrician, who can advise based on your child's needs.

How much vitamin D is in iKids Multi-Vitamins Gummies?

The product label lists vitamin D3 15 µg. Always follow the age-appropriate dosage on pack.

Can my child take iKids with other vitamins?

Check labels to avoid doubling up, and ask a pharmacist or paediatrician if you are unsure.

Where to buy

You can buy iKids Multi-Vitamins Gummies online from our store, with delivery in the UK and the UAE. They cost £11 in the UK and AED 55 in the UAE.

Food supplement. Not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease.