How to Keep Kids Safe from Sunburn

A sunburn is no fun for anyone but can especially hard for small children. Their skin is sensitive and more susceptible to the harmful effects of the summer sun. Protect your children as you get ready to enjoy outdoor activities.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Plan summer outdoor activities to take place in the morning. This is when the sunlight is not as strong and kids' energy level is at it's highest. Crowds at the beach, pool and playgrounds are also lighter.

2. Before going out for play in the sun, make sure your child is protected adequately with cover-ups. This is the time to use those cute sunglasses and sun hats. Hats for little kids should be have a broad brim to cover noses and ears. The hat should also have a strap under the chin to keep it secure.

3. Apply sunscreen 20 minutes prior to going in the sun. Look for sunscreen that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These are minerals that can block UVA and UBA rays. These should be the only active ingredients listed. Use at least an 30 SPF and consider something higher if your child has fair skin. Keep several bottles handy. You should have a bottle not only at home, but in the car, your purse and at daycare.

4. Reapply sunscreen after activities such as swimming or running through the sprinklers. Perspiration can also reduce it's effectiveness so put more on after a couple hours of even regular playing to protect from sunburn.

Tips & Warnings

• For babies, it's best to rely on cover-ups, sun hats and shade to keep them safe from the sun.

[sonni57]

on 5/16/2009 Good tips on keeping kids from getting sunburn it sounds good for us too.