Sun Safety for Kids: Protecting Our Little Explorers

At Play Outside, we understand the importance of sun-soaked days for children’s growth and fun. However, ensuring our little ones are safe from the sun's harmful rays is just as crucial. This blog post is dedicated to helping parents understand sun safety and ensuring that kids can enjoy every outdoor moment worry-free.

Understanding the Risks of Sun Exposure

While sunlight is a great source of vitamin D, excessive exposure can pose significant health risks, including sunburn, heat exhaustion, and increased risk of skin cancer later in life. Children's skin is particularly sensitive to the sun, making sun protection essential.

Essential Sun Safety Tips

Here are some effective ways to protect your children during outdoor play:

• Sunscreen is a Must: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your child’s skin 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, or after swimming or sweating. We love Blue Lizard + Sun Bum. They are both reef safe, waterproof for any adventure and super gentle on the skin. The spray on is particularly great for wiggly kids. Here's a direct link to amazon (these are affiliate links, but these are the products we use daily, and can vouch for):

Sunbum kids face stick: https://amzn.to/3w3lqFu

Sunbum kids spray (wet or dry): https://amzn.to/3U1ZVNm

• Wear Protective Clothing: Dress your children in lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Play Outside’s kids rash guards are designed with UPF 50+ protection to ward off harmful UV rays while keeping your child cool and comfortable.
• Choose the Right Time: The sun is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Make sure you re-apply sunscreen and equip your kids and yourself with the right clothes, hats and drink lots of water, or find shady spots for outdoor play.
• Accessorize Wisely: Wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses can significantly reduce sun exposure to the face and eyes, areas particularly vulnerable to UV damage.
• Stay Hydrated: Keeping children hydrated is crucial in hot weather. Encourage them to drink water regularly to help regulate their body temperature.

Educating Kids About Sun Safety

It’s important to start sun safety education early. Teach your children about the importance of wearing sunscreen and appropriate clothing. Make applying sunscreen a fun, routine activity before any outdoor play, not just special occasions like beach trips.

What Play Outside Offers

At Play Outside, we're committed to your children's safety and enjoyment outdoors. We have our upcoming line of kids outdoor clothing that includes options like hats and lightweight, breathable clothes designed for sun protection. Our products are made with materials that meet the highest standards for UV protection, ensuring that your little adventurers are well-protected. Learn more about the Top Benefits of Sun Protection Clothing For Kids.

Enjoy the Sunshine Responsibly

Remember, sun safety is crucial for ensuring that outdoor play remains a healthy, enjoyable part of childhood. With the right precautions, you can protect your children from the sun’s harmful effects while allowing them the freedom to explore the great outdoors.

Visit our website to explore our sun-safe products and learn more tips on keeping your children protected and happy under the sun. Let's give our kids the freedom to explore safely!