Children are more susceptible to sun damage than adults.
Children need special protection from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. Sun safety is crucial at certain times of the year and certain times of the day.
How do you keep your kids safe? If you are unsure of the best way to protect your child, there are plenty of articles and sun safety tips to aid you in your research.
Below, we give you our favorite hints and tips.
Get Smart About Sunscreen Application
The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends a variety of strategies to keep your kids safe from Sun exposure and emphasizes the importance of adequate sunscreen application. When applying sunscreen, look for a broad-spectrum product with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15. Reapply the sunscreen every two hours and right after swimming or active sweat-inducing activities.
For babies, choosing mineral sunscreen is a great option. Mineral sunscreens use Zinc Oxide or Titanium Oxide, which not only work to physically block UV rays but are also naturally safe for the skin and free of toxic ingredients.
Look for sunscreens that are water-resistant, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic. It is gentle enough for infants and babies, with natural ingredients and no fragrances. Ensure your little one’s skin is well looked after, and keep them safe from the sun.
Let them Wear Lightweight Longer Sleeves and Pants
It is essential for parents to ensure their children’s safety from the sun, especially during the summer months. One way to achieve this is by having them wear lightweight long sleeves and pants.
Long clothing provides additional coverage from harmful UV rays that can be otherwise damaging to sensitive skin, as well as guards against sunburns. It is best to opt for breathable fabrics, as they allow air to circulate better and create a cooling effect in hot temperatures.
Additionally, lighter colors are more effective in reflecting sunlight, making them more beneficial than darker colors. With these strategies, you can rest assured that your kids are staying safe and cool from the summer sun.
Consider High UPF Clothing
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, which is a measure of the percentage of ultraviolet radiation that is blocked upon wearing the clothing item. UPF clothing are specially designed garments that allow protection from harmful UV rays. Not only do they provide coverage to sensitive skin, but they also come in a variety of styles and fabrics, making them a stylish and functional choice when it comes to outdoor activities.
Furthermore, UPF clothing can be machine washed and is designed to maintain its sun-shielding power over time. Therefore, when looking to keep your kids safe from the sun, opt for UPF clothing for the best protection.
Don’t Forget a Hat
Have your kids wear a hat when they are outside. Hats can provide shade for their face, neck, and ears, blocking out up to 50% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
Look for hats with wide brims or a flap around the back of their neck. They are also great for protecting their scalp from the sun.
Not only will a hat protect them from the sun, but it’s also the perfect fashion accessory. Choose fun, colorful hats with embroidered details your kiddo will love.
Make sure the fit is secure but not too tight, allowing them to enjoy the great outdoors in comfort and safety. Check out these straw hats for toddlers.
Consider Kid-Sized Sunglasses
Kids may not think they need sunglasses because they can’t feel the UV rays, but sunglasses are an essential tool in shielding their eyes. Not only do kid-sized sunglasses block out harmful UV rays, but they can also protect their eyes from debris and harsh light, which can be quite damaging to their young eyes.
Furthermore, since they come in fun, colorful styles, they can make children excited to wear them so that they become more likely to follow your advice. Just make sure to choose a pair that offers plenty of protection from UV light, and don’t forget to check the fit so that the glasses stay comfortable and aren’t sliding off. Finally, make sure to replace them every year, as kid-sized sunglasses often experience a lot of wear and tear.
Play Near Shaded Areas and Limit Direct Exposure to Sunlight
Proper sun protection is key to keeping kids safe in the sun. Encourage play near shaded areas, like parks and playgrounds, that provide natural cover from the sun’s rays. Shade structures and umbrellas are great options for extra protection from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Avoid outdoor activities during the sun’s peak hours of 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Keeping kids safe from the sun is an important element of their health and well-being, so make sure to provide extra protection by encouraging play near shaded areas.
Keep Your Kids Hydrated
It is also important to keep them well-hydrated, especially during the hotter summer months. Make sure they always have plenty of water or other fluids on hand, so they do not become overheated or dehydrated. Encourage them to take regular breaks if possible and limit the amount of time spent in direct sunlight.
Educate Your Kids About Skin Cancer Prevention
It is important to teach your children about the dangers of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation and to educate them on the ways to keep them safe. Sun safety should be taught from an early age and be part of their daily routine. Let them know to always apply sunscreen when outdoors, even on cloudy days.
Educating your kids about skin cancer prevention and keeping them safe from the sun is the first step in protecting them from potential health risks in the future.
Sun Safety 101: Keep Your Kids Safe From the Sun
It’s important to keep our children safe from the sun’s harmful rays and reduce the skin damage they can experience. Talk to your child’s pediatrician to learn more about the best sun protection strategies for your family. Take note of UV index ratings, use shade, and wear lightweight and protective clothing to shield your children from damaging UV rays. Together, we can work to keep our kids safe!
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