Summer is a season of sunshine, outdoor fun, and family adventures, but it also comes with a major health risk: sun exposure. Children’s skin is more delicate and vulnerable to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays than adults’, and just a few serious sunburns can increase their risk of skin cancer later in life. Fortunately, with some easy, proactive steps, you can enjoy sunny days without putting your child’s health at risk.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through simple, effective ways to keep kids sun-safe all summer long, whether you’re headed to the beach, park, or just playing in the backyard. Keep Kids Safe in the Sun.
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Why Sun Safety Matters for Kids
Children’s skin produces less melanin, the natural pigment that provides some protection against UV rays. That makes them particularly susceptible to:
- Sunburns
- Heat exhaustion
- Dehydration
- Skin damage that may lead to cancer later in life
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, having just one blistering sunburn in childhood can nearly double a person’s risk of developing melanoma later. This makes sun protection not just a seasonal concern, but a vital part of lifelong health.
1. Apply (and Reapply) Sunscreen the Right Way
Sunscreen is one of the most effective tools for preventing sunburn and skin damage, but only if used properly.
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Tips for using sunscreen effectively:
- Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
- Apply 15–30 minutes before going outside.
- Don’t forget easy-to-miss spots: ears, back of neck, tops of feet, and behind knees.
- Use water-resistant formulas if swimming or sweating.
- Reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming/towel drying.
For babies under 6 months, avoid sunscreen and use protective clothing and shade instead.
Pro tip: Make it a game! Set a timer or sing a “sunscreen song” to make reapplying fun for little ones.
2. Dress Them for Sun Protection
Clothing is your child’s first line of defence against the sun.
Look for:
- Lightweight, tightly woven fabrics (they block more UV rays)
- Long sleeves and pants when possible, especially during peak sun hours
- Wide-brimmed hats that shade the face, ears, and neck
- UV-protection swimwear or rash guards
Some brands offer UPF-rated clothing (Ultraviolet Protection Factor), which is designed to block out a high percentage of UV radiation.
3. Don’t Forget Sunglasses
Eyes are just as sensitive to UV damage as skin. Long-term exposure to sunlight can increase a child’s risk of cataracts and other eye problems.
Choose sunglasses that:
- Block 100% of UVA and UVB rays
- Are labelled “UV400” or “100% UV protection”
- Fit snugly and comfortably
For toddlers and babies, look for soft, wrap-around styles with adjustable straps.
4. Seek Shade, Especially Midday
The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If possible, limit outdoor playtime during these hours.
Tips for creating shade:
- Set up beach umbrellas or pop-up tents
- Use a stroller canopy for babies
- Encourage play under trees or covered patios
- Plan outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon
Remember, shade doesn’t block all UV rays, so continue using sunscreen even when under cover.
5. Keep Kids Cool and Hydrated
Sun exposure combined with summer heat can quickly lead to overheating or dehydration, especially in young children.
Signs of dehydration include:
- Dry lips or mouth
- Irritability or lethargy
- Less frequent urination
- Fewer tears when crying
Keep kids cool by:
- Offering plenty of water throughout the day (not just when they’re thirsty)
- Serving hydrating snacks like watermelon, cucumber, or frozen fruit pops
- Taking frequent breaks in the shade or indoors
Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks, which can dehydrate the body.
6. Set a Good Example
Children learn sun safety habits by watching the adults around them.
- Wear your sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Talk about why you’re taking sun precautions
- Model regular water breaks and time in the shade
By making sun safety a family priority, kids will see it as a normal and necessary part of outdoor fun.
7. Know the Difference Between Sunburn and Heat-Related Illness
Not all summer discomfort is a sunburn. It’s important to watch for signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, which can be dangerous if untreated.
Signs of sunburn:
- Red, tender skin
- Warm to the touch
- Itchiness or peeling
Signs of heat exhaustion:
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness or dizziness
- Cool, pale skin
- Nausea or headache
Signs of heatstroke (a medical emergency):
- High body temperature (over 39°C / 102°F)
- Confusion or irritability
- No sweating despite the heat
- Rapid pulse or unconsciousness
Take action immediately if your child shows signs of heat illness: move them to a cool place, offer fluids, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.
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8. Make Sun Safety Fun and Routine
Kids are more likely to adopt habits when they’re presented in a fun and positive way.
- Let them choose their sun hats or sunglasses
- Use stick sunscreens for faces — many kids find them less messy
- Create a “sun safe kit” to take on outings: sunscreen, hats, extra clothes, and water
- Use colourful UV bracelets or stickers that change colour in the sun to help them understand when protection is needed
Like brushing teeth or wearing a seatbelt, sun protection becomes easier when it’s simply part of your child’s daily routine.
9. Be Extra Cautious Around Water and Sand
While beaches, pools, and lakes are popular summer hangouts for families, they also come with increased sun exposure risks that are often underestimated. That’s because UV rays can reflect off surfaces like water, sand, and even concrete, intensifying their impact and significantly increasing the chance of sunburn. UV reflection from water can increase exposure by up to 25%, while white sand can reflect up to 15% more UV radiation.
This means that even if your child is playing in the shade of a beach umbrella, or it’s a cloudy or overcast day, they can still get sunburned. Clouds only filter out part of the UV rays — up to 80% can still pass through, making protection essential regardless of the weather.
To keep kids safe:
- Apply sunscreen more generously and more frequently near reflective surfaces — at least every 2 hours, and after swimming or towelling off.
- Use water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
- Dress kids in UV-protective swimwear, including long-sleeved rash guards and wide-brimmed hats.
- Encourage breaks in full shade, not just under partial cover like beach tents or umbrellas.
- Keep babies and toddlers out of direct sun as much as possible, especially during peak hours (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.).
Being mindful of the environment, not just the temperature, is key. Sunburns can happen faster and more severely near reflective surfaces, so staying vigilant around water and sand helps protect your child’s skin from damage that could have lasting effects.
10. Educate Without Scaring
While it’s important for kids to understand the dangers of too much sun, the goal is to educate, not frighten.
Talk about:
- How sunscreen is like “invisible armour”
- Why do we wear hats and sunglasses “like superheroes”
- How taking breaks in the shade helps us play longer
This helps kids feel empowered rather than worried, and teaches lifelong healthy habits.
Final Thoughts:
Although summer brings the most sun exposure, UV rays are present year-round, especially in places with high altitude or reflective surfaces. By starting sun-safe habits early, you’re giving your child tools they’ll carry into adulthood.
Staying protected doesn’t mean hiding indoors, it means being smart and proactive. With a little planning and consistency, you can enjoy all the best parts of summer while keeping your kids safe, healthy, and happy under the sun.
