Sun Safety: Protecting Young Skin for a Healthy Future
Sunshine can be fun and invigorating, especially for school-age children who enjoy outdoor activities like recess, sports, and family outings. However, while spending time outdoors is essential for physical health and well-being, too much exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can be harmful. Teaching children about sun safety is crucial to protecting their skin both now and in the future.
Why Sun Safety Matters
The sun emits two types of harmful rays: UVA and UVB. Both can damage the skin and eyes. Even one severe sunburn during childhood can significantly increase the risk of skin cancer later in life, including melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
Children's skin is more delicate than adults’, and they may not recognize the signs of sunburn until it’s too late. Because of this, it's important that parents, caregivers, and educators take an active role in teaching and modeling sun-safe habits.
Top Sun Safety Tips for Children
- Apply Sunscreen Properly
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
- Apply 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors.
- Reapply every two hours—or more often if swimming or sweating.
- Don’t forget areas like the ears, neck, tops of feet, and behind the knees.
- Seek Shade During Peak Hours
UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Encourage children to play in the shade or under shelters like trees, umbrellas, or pop-up tents during these hours.
- Wear Protective Clothing
- Long-sleeved shirts and long pants made of tightly woven fabric can block UV rays.
- Lightweight and breathable materials help keep kids cool.
- Clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) label offers extra protection.
- Use Hats and Sunglasses
- Wide-brimmed hats protect the face, ears, and neck.
- Sunglasses with UV protection shield the eyes from harmful rays and reduce the risk of cataracts later in life.
- Be Extra Careful Near Water, Sand, and Snow
These surfaces reflect UV rays and can increase the risk of sunburn. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds and cause skin damage.
Building Lifelong Habits
The habits children form today can shape their behavior as adults. By incorporating sun safety into daily routines—such as applying sunscreen before school or choosing shady spots during outdoor play—families and schools can help children make sun protection second nature.
Role of Schools and Caregivers
Educators and caregivers can support sun safety by:
- Encouraging the use of sun-protective gear during outdoor activities.
- Scheduling outdoor events earlier or later in the day to avoid peak UV times.
- Teaching lessons about the importance of skin health and sun protection.
Sun safety is a simple but powerful way to protect school-age children from the harmful effects of UV exposure. With the right precautions, kids can enjoy the sunshine safely—building healthy habits that will last a lifetime.
Download these brochures about Sun Safety: