Sun Safety For Kids Of All Ages

What can we say? We like our kids fearless, unfiltered—and sometimes wild. And in our world, that means lots, like really lots, of time playing outside in the sun, whether that’s beach days, wave chasing, or long afternoons in the water with some surfing sunscreen. So when it comes to sun safety for kids, we don’t mess around.

Luckily, we’ve learned a couple of things about how to keep our little ones covered—even when they are cannonballing into the pool. Read on for some tips n tricks to keep your kids sun safe.

Sun Safety for Infants (0-6 Months)

Babies under six months have sensitive skin that makes them especially vulnerable to the sun, which is why we’ve collected a primer on keeping our littlest ones safe from the harmful rays of the sun here. But you can start with these basics:

• Avoid direct sunlight. Keep infants out of direct sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Dress your baby in lightweight clothing that covers arms and legs.
• Use wide-brimmed hats to shield your baby’s face, neck, and ears.
• Shade is your best friend—use a stroller canopy or umbrella when outside.
• Talk to your pediatrician before using any sunscreen on your baby.

Sun Safety for Babies (6-12 Months)

At this stage, you can start to use sunscreen on your little one if they're six months or older. Babies at this age are exploring the world, but they still need protection from the sun.

• Apply baby sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to areas not covered by protective clothing.
• Dress them in sun-protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats.
• Seek shade whenever possible, and use sunshades or umbrellas.
• Keep your baby hydrated, offering plenty of fluids in warm weather.
• Be mindful of reflective surfaces like water and sand that increase sun exposure.

Sun Safety for Toddlers

Always on the move. Toddlers may put up quite a wriggle, but that doesn’t make sun protection any less of a must during outdoor adventures.

• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen every two hours, especially if your child is swimming or sweating.
• Choose sun-protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats to cover exposed skin.
• Encourage your toddler to play in shaded areas.
• Use sunglasses with UV protection to shield their eyes.
• Make applying sunscreen part of your daily routine, so it becomes a habit.

Sun Safety Tips To Protect Your Child's Skin

Limit Sun Exposure

Play time also tends to be prime sun time, so try to limit your child’s sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest. Use this time for indoor activities or play in shaded areas.

Use Sunscreen

There’s a reason why we’re always talkin’ about this—because it makes a difference. Always use a broad-spectrum kids sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Apply it 15 minutes before sun exposure, and remember to reapply every two hours or after swimming.

Stay In The Shade

Treehouses are dreamy, but they also provide valuable shade. Shady spots are lifesavers for young skin. Whether it's a tree, a canopy, or an umbrella, staying in the shade can reduce UV exposure significantly.

Cover Up

Dress your child in sun-protective clothing, like long sleeves and pants made from tightly woven fabrics. Swim shirts with built-in UV protection are great for pool days.

Wear Sunglasses

Don't forget about eye protection—and not just for the cool factor! Sunglasses that block 99-100% of UVA and UVB rays are essential to safeguard your child’s eyes from harmful sun damage.

Sunscreen Application Tips

• Use about one ounce (a shot glass amount) to cover your child’s entire body.
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
• Don’t miss spots like ears, feet, and the back of the neck.
• Use a lip balm with SPF to protect their lips.
• Test new sunscreens on a small patch of skin to check for any reactions.

What To Do If Your Child Gets A Sunburn

It happens. So what do you do if your little one got too much sun?

• Use cool baths to soothe the skin and help reduce discomfort.
• Apply aloe vera gel or a moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated.
• Make sure your child drinks plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Talk to your pediatrician before giving any medication.
• Avoid additional sun exposure until the burn has fully healed.