How to Protect Children from the Sun

Did you know that we are exposed to the sun more as children than we are during the rest of our lives? Children love to play outside, whether it's at the pool, on the beach or at the park. While spending time outside is fun for children, precautions must be taken to protect them from sunburn and the risk of skin cancer later in their lives.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Tightly woven clothing
• Hat
• Umbrella
• Sunscreen

1. Select an appropriate sunscreen. Sunscreen should offer UVA and UVB protection and should have an SPF of 15 or more. The higher the SPF the better it will protect your child.
2. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside. More is better, so use sunscreen liberally, as most people do not use enough. Don't forget hands, lips or the neck, as these are the most often overlooked areas.
3. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours.
4. Stay out of the sun during the middle of the day, since the sun will be strongest during this time.
5. Have children wear tightly woven clothing to provide the most protection from the sun. Children should put on a T-shirt while swimming, or immediately after getting out of the water.
6. Take frequent breaks in the shade. If shade is not available, create artificial shade with wide-brimmed hats or umbrellas.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear sunscreen on cloudy days. It is still possible to get a sunburn.
• Protect your child's skin at all times of the year, not just in the summer.
• If your child has an allergic reaction to the sunscreen, discontinue use and consult a doctor.