5 Sun Safety Tips for Kids

Many years ago I learned the following:

80% of lifetime sun exposure occurs during childhood, and just one blistering sunburn can double the risk of getting melanoma later in life.

This fact really stuck with me since, and of all the top parenting tips I read – it’s this particular one that I have thought about so often. It’s blatantly clear that protecting my kids from the sun’s harmful rays is of top importance. It’s crucial that everyone find a sun safety routine that works for them and their family.

For myself, I found a sun safety routine that very much works in protecting my kids from harmful rays. While I will list my top tips, keep in mind that it’s simple and thoughtless really – yet sometimes we need reminders for even the basics now and then.

5 Sun Safety Tips for Kids

 

Limit Outdoor Playtime Between 10a.m-4p.m.

When the suns rays are the strongest, you may want to avoid unnecessary exposure. Even on cloudy or cooler days, ultraviolet (UV) rays remain strong. Plus shady spots, though some help, can be just as tricky because of reflected light.

I’m not saying to hide inside from these hours, yet remember to be aware of risks and take many breaks if you can. Most importantly, if your child is playing outdoors during these hours, make sure to apply sunscreen and often.

This summer I’ve been using Banana Boat Simply Protect Kids Lotion. It’s a NEW line in the collection and is made with 25% fewer ingredients – including no parabens, oxybenzone or added fragrances and oils. This mineral based sunscreen is a gentle, tear-free formula made especially for kids over the age of 6 months.

I have found it to be lightweight, it absorbs quickly, and I I’ve also taken note that a little goes a long way.

Apply Sunscreen Properly

For effective use, generously apply sunscreen 30 minutes before your child goes out in the sun. Choose a sunscreen with SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 15 or higher, and reapply every 2-3 hours or after sweating or swimming.

The new Banana Boat Simply Protect Kids Lotion is water and sweat resistant formula up to 80 minutes, which is so great – because, summer! If you opt for a spray {as this new line also comes in a spray variety}, keep in mind that you still have to rub it in with your hands to ensure exact coverage.

Lips can also burn, so apply a lip balm with SPF protection. Don’t forget the nose, ears, hands, feet, shoulders, and behind the neck!

Cover up

Wearing protective clothing and hats is an important way to ward off UV damage. When my kids were babies, these were essentials. Did you know that wet, light-coloured clothing transmits just as much sunlight as bare skin? Keep your kids covered with dark colours, long sleeves, and pants whenever possible.

Don’t forget the accessories: sunglasses with UV protection to guard against burned corneas, and hats to prevent sunburned scalps and faces. At the beach, bring along a large umbrella.

Keep Watch on Medications

Some medications increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun, so make sure to ask your doctor whether your child may be at risk. Prescription antibiotics and acne medications are the most notorious culprits, so when in doubt, ask.

Set a Good Example for your Kids

If your child sees you following the above sun-safety rules, chances are they will follow suit. Skin protection is important for every member of the family, so team up with your children to stay protected when venturing out in the sun.

 

Another sun safety routine that I follow, is to have my Banana Boat Simply Protect Kids Sunscreen Lotion on hand at all times, for convenience and so not having any doesn’t become a lame and unhealthy excuse.

So that means I have one located by the backdoor for application before playing in the yard, one at my easy reach in the car so I can apply on the fly, and another in my always-packed road trip bag that also includes extra hats, sunglasses, an outdoor blanket, and bug spray. For more product information please visit bananaboat.ca

 

Do you have any other tips to share, which are part of your sun safety routine? 

 

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. As always, all opinions are my own.