We all want to protect our children, and shielding them from the sun is no exception. Most parents are successful in reminding their kids to put on sunscreen on a daily basis, at least during the summer months. But do your children really understand the dangerous impact of the sun, or are they just obeying a command? Teach your kids all about sun safety, so covering up and playing smart outdoors becomes a life-long practice.
Be open about the dangers. Even if your child is too young to fully understand a concept such as skin cancer, help him or her understand that using sunblock means more than just preventing a sunburn — it’s about staying safe and healthy. Make sure to approach the concept gently, so your child doesn’t develop an irrational fear. If your child understands why sunblock is necessary, he or she will be less likely to complain about the inconvenience of taking time out from playing to reapply.
Make it a game. Reward your children for their own independent application of sunscreen. Some parents use a sticker system, where their child receives a small gift or special date with mom or dad when enough stickers are earned. Always emphasize how proud you are that your child takes sunscreen seriously and makes sure to apply it.
Teach what's "too much." Another helpful trick is teaching your children when they’ve had enough sun. Symptoms such as exhaustion, chills, nausea or pink skin are all signs that it’s time to come inside. Teaching your children about these symptoms can help them make wise choices and involve them in taking care of their own health.
Set a good example. Don’t skip the sunscreen or spend hours laying out by the pool and expect your children to wear sunscreen properly. If you aren&rsuo;t taking care of your skin, children will notice and want to emulate your unhealthy habits. Instead, make sunscreen application and sun safety a family affair to emphasize the importance of prevention.
Choosing the best sunscreen. Here’s how you cover all the bases:
- SPF. Choose a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher.
- Waterproof. Even if your kids won't be swimming, a summer play day might include running through the sprinklers, playing in the mud and constant hand washing.
- UVA/UVB protection or broad spectrum protection.
- PABA and paraben free.
- Safe for sensitive skin.
If you don't want the hassle of buying a separate sunblock for you and your child, purchase an adult sunblock that's also kid-friendly. For example, Total Block C.O.T.Z. SPF 58 contains titanium and zinc, which offer excellent sun protection and won't irritate sensitive skin like other formulas.
- Infants. Never apply sunscreen on an infant less than six months old; if your little one has to go outside, choose protective clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat, light-weight cotton clothing that covers the arms and legs and something to provide shade. For older infants, it's wise to see a dermatologist or pediatrician to ensure that a formula is safe for your child.
- Application. Make sure you and your kids apply sunscreen 30 minutes before heading outdoors. Reapply every two to three hours. Come rain or shine, hot or cold weather, you and your children should wear sunscreen every day.