Summer Skin Care: Play Safe, Stay Safe in the Summer Sun!
July 26, 2024
Summer is a wonderful time for kids to play outside, enjoy the sunshine, and make lasting memories. However, it’s important to keep them safe from the sun’s harmful rays. At Prescott Community, we care about the well-being of your family, so here are some essential sun safety tips to protect your kids while they have fun in the sun.
Apply Sunscreen Regularly ⏰
Sunscreen is a must for protecting your child’s skin from harmful UV rays. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Apply it generously to all exposed skin 15-30 minutes before going outside. Remember to reapply every two hours, or more often if your child is swimming or sweating.
Tip: Make applying sunscreen a fun part of your routine. Let your child help apply it and make it a game to ensure thorough coverage.
Dress for Sun Protection 👒
Clothing is one of the best ways to protect your child’s skin from the sun. Dress them in lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants made from tightly woven fabric. A wide-brimmed hat can protect their face, ears, and neck. Don’t forget sunglasses with UV protection to shield their eyes.
Tip: Look for clothing with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) labels for added sun protection.
Seek Shade During Peak Hours 🌴
The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. During these hours, try to keep your child in the shade as much as possible. Plan outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is less intense.
Tip: Bring along a beach umbrella, pop-up tent, or find natural shade under trees to create a safe play area out of direct sunlight.
Stay Hydrated 💦
Playing in the sun can cause kids to sweat and lose fluids quickly. Ensure your child drinks plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Encourage them to take regular water breaks, especially if they’re active.
Tip: Pack a reusable water bottle and make hydration fun by adding slices of fruit for a refreshing twist.
Be Cautious with Infants 🍼
Babies under six months have sensitive skin and should be kept out of direct sunlight. Use a stroller with a canopy or a sunshade, and dress them in lightweight, long-sleeved clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
Tip: For added protection, you can use a small amount of baby-safe sunscreen on tiny areas like the face and hands if shade and clothing aren’t enough.
Lead by Example 🫂
Kids learn by watching their parents. Make sun safety a family priority by following these tips yourself. Show your children that protecting their skin from the sun is important for everyone.
Tip: Create a family sun safety routine and make it a habit to apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing together.
Educate Your Kids 📚
Teach your children about the importance of sun safety. Explain why it’s important to protect their skin from sunburns and long-term damage. Empower them to take charge of their own sun protection.
Tip: Use fun and educational resources like books and videos to teach kids about sun safety in an engaging way.
The Benefits of Sun Protection 🌞
Protecting your child from the sun not only prevents painful sunburns but also reduces the risk of skin cancer later in life. Sun protection also helps maintain healthy skin and prevents premature aging. By instilling good sun safety habits in your children now, you’re setting them up for a lifetime of healthy skin.