Playing outdoors is important for children’s health and development. Children need the chance to use their muscles to run, climb, swing, jump, throw, dig, build, and ride a bike; to use their loud “outside voices;” and to experience nature—to feel fresh air and changing weather; to see and touch plants, insects, and animals; to smell flowers; to hear the sounds of birds; to feel water, sand, grass, rocks … and, to feel sunshine.

What’s the danger?

Although the sun might feel good on our skin for short periods of time, the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays are harmful. Children with light skin are more susceptible to sun damage because their skin has less melanin protection, but children with darker skin are also susceptible to sun damage. Babies are the most susceptible because their skin is thinnest. Some antibiotics and other medications can also make the skin more sensitive to the sun.

Sun exposure, even for a brief time, can cause sunburn which can lead to severe pain, blistering, fever, and dehydration. Over time, sun exposure is the main cause of skin cancer, which can be fatal. Although most people who get skin cancer are adults, their harmful sun exposure probably occurred during childhood since 60-80% of lifetime sun exposure occurs before age 18. Studies have shown that two or more blistering sunburns during childhood can significantly increase the risk of developing skin cancer. In addition, excessive sun exposure causes wrinkled skin and may increase the chance of developing cataracts of the eyes later in life.

How can you protect children from the sun?

The sun’s rays are strongest in the summer, on clear sunny days, and at mid-day. But harmful rays come through all year round, all day long, even on cloudy days. And reflection of the sun off water, sand, snow, and pavement can also compound your child’s sun exposure.

Help make outdoor play healthy and safe by protecting children from the sun all year round, all day, every day, even on cloudy days:

• Try to avoid outdoor play at mid-day (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) when the sun’s rays are strongest.
• Play in the shade as much as possible. This is especially important for babies under 6 months of age—keep them under the shade of a porch, tree, umbrella, or stroller.
• Dress children in light-colored, loose-fitting clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Cotton fabrics are good, and tightly-woven fabric is best—when you hold it up to the light, little shines through.
• Have children wear a hat with a brim that shades the face, and preferably flaps that shade the neck. Sunglasses with UV protection can help protect a child’s eyes.
• Use sunscreen. Sunscreen is recommended for all children over 6 months of age. Some experts recommend it for babies under 6 months as well, but others do not because of concern for unknown risks. Here are some sunscreen tips:
• • Choose a sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays, and has an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 15 or higher—these will filter out over 90% of the harmful rays. Choose a water-resistant or waterproof sunscreen if children are playing in the water.
  • Test the sunscreen on his back first to make sure he doesn’t develop a skin rash.
  • Apply the sunscreen 20-30 minutes before going outdoors. Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, especially the face, ears, neck, shoulders, and arms which are most exposed to the sun. Be careful around the eyes—and don’t put sunscreen on the eyelids—because it can burn if it gets into the eyes. If he gets sunscreen in his eyes, use a damp cloth to wipe his eyes and hands.
  • Remember to reapply sunscreen after swimming and every two hours.

Dealing with sunburn

If baby gets a sunburn, contact the pediatrician right away and follow the doctor’s suggestions. A cool bath might help make baby’s skin feel better, but don’t use any lotion unless the doctor recommends it. Give baby plenty of fluids (e.g., breastmilk, formula, water, or juice) to help prevent dehydration. And be sure to keep baby out of the sun until the sunburn has healed.

Teach children about sun safety

Remember, teaching children sun safety protects them for a lifetime. Talk with them about the importance of sun protection. And be sure that you’re a good role model by following the same sun safety measures for your own protection.