Summer has officially started, and we bet your kids are spending as much time as possible having fun in the sun in your backyard. While many people think of sunscreen primarily as a tool for pool days or beach trips, if kids are spending time outdoors, sun safety should be a concern no matter where they are.
The CDC states that even a few sunburns can increase a child’s risk of skin cancer later in life, but thankfully, there are many ways you can prioritize sun safety anywhere your children are playing outdoors. Keep reading for some of our top tips.
How to Keep Kids Safe From the Sun
Encourage activities in the shade. The best way to stay safe from the sun is by not being exposed to it at all, but that does not mean you have to keep your kiddos indoors! UV rays are the most harmful in the middle of the day, so this is a great time to encourage activities in the shade. If your children are making use of your backyard, you could even consider adding some shade in creative ways if it tends to be on the sunny side.
Always apply sunscreen. Every time children are planning on playing outside, apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before they head out and reapply every two hours. It is best to choose a sunscreen that is at least SPF 30 and contains protection against both UVA and UVB rays. It is also recommended to apply a chapstick that has SPF in it as well to protect the vulnerable skin of the lips.
Let kids pick a sun hat they love. Hats offer great protection to the face, the scalp, the neck and the vulnerable skin on the tops of the ears. Letting your children pick out their own sun hats is a great way to get them excited about wearing one and encourage sun safety at the same time. While ball caps are often a popular choice, encourage them to pick something with a wider brim for extra protection.
For a completely sun-safe activity, indoor drama classes are a great choice! Contact us today to learn more about enrollment options.