June 25, 2025

Sunny Days, Smart Choices: The Importance of Sun Safety

Sun Safety for Kids | Sun Safety Facts | Infant Sun Safety | Child Sun Safety | Summer Sun Safety Tips

Megan Cavanaugh, Learning and Development Specialist

With summer camp and warm weather activities in full swing, it’s more important than ever to prioritize sun safety – especially for children! During this time of the year, children spend a lot of time outside in the sun. While a little sunshine is great for boosting mood and vitamin D, too much exposure, especially without protection, can have serious long-term effects.

Many parents and educators are surprised to learn that just one blistering sunburn in childhood can significantly increase a child’s risk of skin cancer later in life. Despite the myth that most sun exposure happens before adulthood, the truth is that sun damage adds up over a lifetime. That makes early education and consistent protection essential.

Let’s break down some myths vs. facts and what you need to know for keeping young skin safe:

Common Sun Safety Myths—Busted

Myth 1: “Children only need sunscreen on sunny days.”

Fact: Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds. Children need protection even on overcast days!

Myth 2: “It’s fine to use sunscreen on babies under 6 months.”

Fact: Infants under 6 months should not use sunscreen unless directed by a pediatrician. Their skin is too sensitive and can absorb more of the chemicals in sunscreen. Instead, keep babies completely shaded, dressed in lightweight, long-sleeved clothing, and avoid direct sun exposure, especially during peak UV hours.

Myth 3: “You only need to apply sunscreen once a day.”

Fact: Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time. Therefore, it should be reapplied every two hours, or more often after swimming or sweating – even if it’s labeled as “water-resistant.”

Sun Safety Tips for Educators and Parents

Both teachers and parents play a key role in keeping children safe from harmful UV rays while enjoying time outdoors! Here are practical ways to model and reinforce sun-safe habits every day:

Apply sunscreen regularly: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Apply it generously to children’s skin before outdoor time: once in the morning and again in the afternoon. Reapply as needed and immediately after sweating, swimming, or water play. For educators, logging sunscreen applications is helpful to ensure consistency and communication between school and home!
Seek shade: Encourage play in shaded areas like under trees, umbrellas, or shade sails. Shaded play not only protects children from excessive UV exposure but also helps regulate body temperature, reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses such as sunburn, dehydration, and heatstroke. It also creates a more comfortable and inviting environment for safe and sustained outdoor play.
Stay hydrated: Make sure children drink water regularly throughout the day, especially during outdoor play. Proper hydration helps keep their bodies cool and reduces the risk of heat-related illness. Parents and educators should model good hydration habits by drinking water alongside children and encouraging regular water breaks.
Dress for sun protection: Choose lightweight long-sleeved clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protective sunglasses. Advocate for sun-safe attire during school hours and encourage it at home, too.
Teach and model sun-smart habits: Children are more likely to adopt sun safety when they understand the “why” behind it. Treat sunscreen and sun hats like you would seatbelts or bike helmets – they are essential for protection. Adults should model these habits, too, showing children that staying safe in the sun is both smart and cool.

Start Early, Stay Protected

Sun safety isn’t just a summer concern; it’s a lifelong habit that begins in childhood. When teachers and parents work together, they can build a knowledge of skin protection that empowers children to enjoy the sunshine without putting their future health at risk. With just a few simple, consistent practices, everyone can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer and teach children to embrace the outdoors safely and responsibly.