Summer is here and the sun’s out, but that doesn’t mean your kids can just bathe in it all day! Babies and young children are especially vulnerable to the sun’s rays, so it’s important to keep an eye on their sun exposure and take precautions.
Here are some tips for keeping your little ones safe this summer.
Sun Protection Tips for Kids
A good rule of thumb is that if you have to squint when you look at the sun, then your baby should be wearing sunglasses with 100% UV protection. Additionally, sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher should be applied liberally every two hours, or after swimming or sweating heavily.
Make sure to check labels for any age restrictions on the sunscreen product before using. For everything you need to know on the best sunscreens for kids, check out my blog
It’s also a good idea to keep hats handy for extra protection from the sun and search for clothing designed specifically for ultraviolet protection.
If your child does get a sunburn, try applying a cool compress or cool bathwater with some baking soda mixed in to help reduce redness and pain. Aloe vera gel can also provide relief from itching and discomfort. If the burn appears severe or blisters form, consult a doctor right away.
Timing & Staying Hydrated
Another important factor to keep in mind is timing – try avoiding being outside during peak hours (10 AM – 4 PM) when the sun is at its strongest. Also be mindful of how long your baby stays out in the sun; it’s best not to let them stay too long as their sensitive skin can easily burn if exposed for too long.
Make sure to keep an eye on them and take breaks often if needed – like us adults do! And don't forget about hydration; it's just as important for babies as it is for adults, so be sure to give them plenty of fluids throughout the day.
Giving Your Baby Their First Summer
If this is your baby's first summer, there are several things you can do to make sure they stay safe in the heat and sunshine. Take breaks often when outdoors by finding shade under trees or umbrellas; this will give them time to cool off as well as prevent too much exposure to UV rays.
A great way to beat the heat is by going swimming at shaded pools or splash pads! You can also bring along other items like stroller fans or portable misters that attach directly onto strollers so they stay comfortable while out and about during hot days.
Resources
There are a number of great resources available for parents looking for information on sun protection for their children. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is a great place to start, as they provide detailed advice on sun safety ranging from how to choose the right sunscreen to when to use it. For example, they recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and they offer advice on how to choose the right one for your baby.
The Skin Cancer Foundation is another great source of information when it comes to sun safety in children. They provide step-by-step instructions on how to apply sunscreen correctly and even have a section specifically devoted to kids’ sun protection.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also has a number of resources on sun safety for children. They provide information on the importance of UV protection, as well as tips for choosing the right sunscreen and other sun-protective measures.
Finally, there are several apps available that can help you keep track of your child’s sun exposure, such as the SunSmart app. This app allows parents to track their kids’ UV exposure and set reminders for sunscreen application and other sun safety measures.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your baby has a safe and fun summer in the sun!
Conclusion
Sun safety is essential year-round but especially important during the summertime when kids spend more time outdoors playing in the sunshine! Protecting young children from excessive ultraviolet radiation is key for preventing skin cancer later in life as well as protecting against painful sunburns now.
With these tips in mind, you'll be prepared for whatever adventures come your way this summer—sunshine included! If you want more information about how best to protect yourself and your family from skin cancer, visit websites such as SkinCancerFoundation.org for resources about prevention and detection methods.
Let's have a safe summer y'all!
