Sunny Days Are Here: Sun Safety Tips for Infants and Children

The summer sun is out! This means children are spending much more time outdoors.

Infants and children are more likely to be exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays. Children's skin is sensitive and can burn more easily than adult skin. Overexposure to UV rays during childhood can significantly increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. Additionally, sunburns in childhood can be painful and uncomfortable. While we often think about protecting them from immediate dangers like falls or bumps, one frequently overlooked area is sun safety.

We will explore some essential tips and guidelines to protect our infants and children from the sun's potentially harmful effects.

1.      Avoid Midday Sun: The sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. During these hours, keep infants and young children out of direct sunlight.

2.      Use Protective Clothing: Dress your child in lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats that shade the face, neck, and ears.

3.      Apply Sunscreen: For infants under 6 months old, it is recommended to keep them out of direct sunlight and to avoid using sunscreen. For older children, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

4.      Seek Shade: When outdoors, seek shade under trees, umbrellas, or other shelters to reduce exposure to direct sunlight.

5.      Protective Eyewear: Sunglasses with UV protection is important for children to protect their eyes from UV radiation. Look for sunglasses that block 99% to 100% of both UVA and UVB rays.

6.      Stay Hydrated: Encourage children to drink plenty of fluids, particularly water, to prevent dehydration, especially on hot days.

7.      Educate and Lead by Example: Teach children about sun safety from an early age. Set a good example by practicing sun safety yourself.

Special Considerations for Infants

Infants 6 months and under have sensitive skin and are particularly vulnerable to sunburn and heat-related illnesses. It is best to keep them out of direct sunlight altogether. If you must take them outside, dress them in lightweight clothing that covers their arms and legs and use a hat with a brim to shade their face. If shade is not available, use a stroller with a canopy or attach a lightweight blanket over the stroller to provide shade.

Remember, a little bit of preparation goes a long way in keeping our children protected from the sun's harmful rays. Here’s too sunny and safe days ahead for our families!