3 Easy Ways You Can Improve Sun Safety for Kids
The sun is responsible for a large part of our body’s vitamin D production. This small element is, in turn, what helps our bodies regulate calcium absorption, preventing conditions like rickets.
Without really trying, a lot of the time, we end up getting an excess of sun exposure and wind up with sunburns. What’s more, getting too much sun exposure might sometimes have other, more severe, consequences.
That said, learning a bit more about sun safety for kids can help protect and take care of your precious little ones. Continue reading to learn about what you can do to ensure your children stay safe in the sun.
Table of Contents
1. Using Sunscreen for Maximum Protection
Sunscreen is an effective way for kids to protect themselves from UV rays and gain maximum protection when out in the sun. During times of intense sun exposure, kids need to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 before they go outside. This should be done regardless of their skin type and color.
It is a must for kids to reapply sunscreen every couple of hours to keep it effective. Parents should also be aware of the dangers of sunburns, especially if the child is under six months old. Sunburns can lead to skin cancer and premature aging of the skin, so preventative measures such as the use of sunscreen are important for the long-term safety and health of the child.
2. Outfitting Kids in Sun-Protective Clothing
The main purpose of outfitting babies in sun-protective clothing is to help block excess UV rays to avoid any sunburns and subsequent skin damage. This can include wearing long sleeve shirts and long johns, light cotton pants, and even wide-brimmed hats. These items of clothing should always be rated UPF 50+ to ensure maximum protection from UVA and UVB rays.
Consider other sun safety aspects such as items that provide shade, or an umbrella when out and about with a stroller. Alternatively, mesh sun shields to easily attach to the stroller are another option.
Babies should also be taken out of the heat to prevent sunburn and dehydration. Sun safety for babies starts with protective clothing and should always be a top priority. If you have a son and wants to protect him at all cost, check out these baby boy clothing shop and explore their products.
3. Schedule Outdoor Time Wisely
When scheduling outdoor time for kids, it is best to choose times when the sun’s intensity is reduced. Try to plan outdoor time before 10 am and after 4 pm for sun safety. Make sure kids can seek shelter if needed and provide them with ample protection.
Remind children why it’s important to adhere to sun safety practices and this can encourage them to be sun responsible. Also, ensure to encourage kids to take breaks in the shade, wear sun hats, and drink plenty of fluids during outdoor activities. Taking these simple steps can greatly reduce their risk of skin problems and overexposure.
Prioritize Sun Safety for Kids
In conclusion, implementing proper sun safety practices will help protect our kids from the sun’s harmful radiation. From applying sunscreen diligently, to teaching kids how to wear clothing that covers their bodies, there are many easy ways to ensure sun safety for kids.
Let’s use these strategies to decrease the risk of skin cancer and other sun-related dangers. Teaching your kids these habits now will set them up for a lifetime of safer sunning, and create healthy habits for the future.
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