Playing outside during summer is a fun activity for kids. However, it is important for parents and caregivers to take proper precautions to prevent sunburn. Sunburn can cause pain, discomfort, and increase the risk of skin cancer.

This article provides 30 tips to protect kids from sunburn and enjoy the summer safely.

Tip 1: Apply Sunscreen

Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to your child’s skin before going outside. Be sure to cover all skin, including the ears, nose, and feet, and reapply every two hours.

Tip 2: Use a Sufficient Amount of Sunscreen

Use a generous amount of sunscreen to ensure that your child’s skin is fully protected. A general rule is to use about 1 ounce of sunscreen per application.

Tip 3: Avoid Sunscreens with Harmful Ingredients

When purchasing sunscreen, avoid those with harmful ingredients such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, and retinyl palmitate or any product that has been shown to cause an allergic reaction to the child.

Tip 4: Plan Outdoor Activities During Non-Peak Hours

The worst time of day for sun exposure is between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon when the sun’s rays are less intense.

Tip 5: Dress Your Child in Protective Clothing

Dress your child in loose, long-sleeved shirts or pants made of lightweight fabric that can help protect skin from the sun. A wide-brimmed hat can also provide additional protection to the head and neck area.

Tip 6: Avoid Tanning Beds

Tanning beds can expose your child to UV radiation, which can increase the risk of skin cancer. Avoid tanning beds and opt for sunless tanners instead.

Tip 7: Seek Shade

Seek shade whenever possible. A shaded area can help protect kids from the sun’s rays and provide a cool and comfortable environment to play in.

Tip 8: Monitor UV Index

Check the UV index in your area before heading outside with your child. If it is high or extreme, then it is best to stay indoors or limit outdoor activities.

Tip 9: Use Umbrellas and Camp Chairs

Use umbrellas and camp chairs with built-in UV protection to create your own shaded area during outdoor activities like picnics or outdoor games.

Tip 10: Stay Hydrated

Make sure your child stays hydrated when playing outside by providing plenty of fluids, such as water, juice, or sports drinks.

Tip 11: Keep Infants out of the Sun

Babies under six months should not be exposed to direct sunlight. Keep infants in the shade and dress them in protective clothing and hats.

Tip 12: Apply Sunscreen on Cloudy Days

Even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate through the clouds and cause sunburn. Make sure to apply sunscreen before heading out, even if the sky looks overcast.

Tip 13: Use Sunglasses with UV Protection

In addition to protecting the skin, sunglasses with UV protection can help protect the eyes from harmful rays that can cause cataracts and other eye problems.

Tip 14: Apply Lip Balm with SPF

Use lip balm with SPF to protect the lips from sunburn and keep them moisturized.

Tip 15: Keep Sunscreen in Your Car

Keep sunscreen in your car to apply before heading out and during impromptu outdoor activities.

Tip 16: Reapply Sunscreen after Swimming or Sweating

Water and sweat can reduce the effectiveness of sunscreen. Reapply sunscreen after swimming or sweating to keep your child’s skin protected.

Tip 17: Use a Beach Tent

A beach tent can provide a shaded and protected area for your child to play at the beach or during water activities.

Tip 18: Avoid Sunburn During Sports Events

Sports events can last hours under the sun; make sure to dress your child with protective clothing and a hat so that you can avoid sunburn during those activities.

Tip 19: Check the Expiration Date of Sunscreen

Expired sunscreen loses its effectiveness and can be harmful. Check the expiration date before applying and avoid using sunscreen that has expired.

Tip 20: Use Sunscreen in Combination with Other Sun Protection Measures

Use sunscreen alongside clothing, hats, and shade to ensure that your child is fully protected from the sun’s harmful rays.

Tip 21: Stay in the Shade While Waiting

If waiting for a game or event to start, play or take your child under the trees and stay in the shade to avoid sunburn during outdoor activities.

Tip 22: Keep Cooling Towels on Hand

Keep cooling towels, which stay cool for hours, on hand to reduce heat stress in children during outdoor activities.

Tip 23: Cover Your Child’s Feet

Don’t forget to cover the tops and soles of your child’s feet, which can be sunburned just like any other part of the body.

Tip 24: Wear Protective Clothing in the Water

Water can amplify the sun’s rays, making it easier to get sunburn. Wear protective clothing, including a rash guard, when swimming or playing in the water.

Tip 25: Use Sunscreen Around the Eyes

Apply a small amount of sunscreen around the eyes to protect the delicate skin in that area.

Tip 26: Don’t Rely on Clouds for UV Protection

Even on overcast days, a significant amount of UV radiation can reach the surface. Never rely on clouds as a substitute for sunscreen or protective clothing.

Tip 27: Avoid Sunburn at High Altitudes

At high altitudes, UV radiation can be more intense due to thinner air. Dress appropriately, apply sunscreen, and seek shade when necessary when spending time at high elevations.

Tip 28: Protect Against Reflection

Water, sand, snow, and even concrete can reflect the sun’s harmful rays, leading to sunburn. Use sunscreen and protective clothing to protect against reflection and keep your child’s skin safe.

Tip 29: Teach Your Child to Protect Their Skin

Teach your child about the importance of sun protection and make it a healthy habit early on. Help them understand how to stay safe and healthy in the sun.

Tip 30: Set a Good Example

As a parent or caregiver, you have the responsibility to set a good example by protecting yourself from sunburn, alongside your child. Explain the risks that come with too much sun exposure and take steps to protect yourself and your little one.