Protecting Baby From The Summer Sun

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Spring has now turned into summer. What used to be your newborn baby is now your bouncing toddler that is eager to hit the beach, parks and recreation areas. How do you keep your baby or toddler safe from harmful sun rays during summer activities? This article outlines important tips to help you keep your new baby and toddler safe in the summer sun.

Let’s start with sun safety for newborn babies. New babies skin is very sensitive. Infants should never be in direct sunlight for a long period of time. Make sure your newborn has a hat and light clothing to keep him cool but protected from the summer sun rays. Your new baby may be exposed to harmful sun rays when you are not even aware of it. Babies in strollers, car seats or on a play date to the park are exposed to sunlight. Sunscreen is not just for the beach any more. Use it frequently throughout the day to protect your baby. It is also recommended that you keep a bottle of sunscreen in your purse or diaper bag at all times. This way it is at your disposal when it is time to go out into the sun. Some companies are now producing clothing with sunscreen in the fabrics. Another alternative is the Rit Sunguard Laundry Treatment UV Protectant. This laundry treatment increases the protection of clothing and bathing suits. This is a great alternative to applying sunscreen frequently throughout the day. For baby, make sure the sunscreen you choose has a protection level of at least SPF 30. This will help protect your new baby while he explores the wonderful outdoors.

Toddlers also need protection during summer play. Parents Magazine offers some helpful tips to keep your toddler safe and happy this summer. First, fill a basket by your front door with sunglasses, hats and sunscreen. This will help remind your toddler and also older children to protect themselves before they head out the door to play. Also remember to keep sunscreen in all of your bags including your purse and diaper bag. This will help you remember to apply frequently to you and your child. Parents Magazine also suggests packing sunscreen with your child to take two preschool or day care. You may want to talk to your child’s teacher to make sure she applies sunscreen throughout the day when there is going to be outdoor activities. You may also explain to your child that too much sun can be dangerous to their health. Soon you may find that your child reminds you to apply sunscreen!

How do you know which type of sunscreen is right for your child or new baby? A good rule of thumb is to choose a sunscreen that says broad spectrum. This means it protects against UVB and UVA rays. You may look for ingredients that say titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or oxybenzone. All of these ingredients shield against both types of sun rays. Be mindful of expiration dates. Like most products, sunscreen has an expiration date. If your bottle of sunscreen has expired, be sure to replace it.

It is not always easy to remember to prepare for summer sun activities. When you are rushing out the door to begin your vacation or playtime, it can be difficult to get kids to hold still for sun protection. You can entice kids to apply sunscreen by buying kid-friendly varieties with their favorite cartoon character or sports star. Let them keep the sunscreen in their own bag. Children are fascinated with your lotions and make-up products. Tell them that this is their special make-up and you can be sure that they will remember to apply before they head out the door! You can also set a good example by performing a daily sun protection ritual yourself. Older children may see you protecting a new baby or applying sunscreen to yourself. This will help kids get in the habit of making sun protection a daily activity.

Now that summer is here, it is time to hit the outdoors with your new baby or toddler! Although it is important to protect your children and yourself from harmful sun rays, there is no need to over worry. Follow these simple tips by Parents Magazine and you are sure to have a safe and happy summer with your family!

(Source Parents Magazine “Get Serious About Sun Safety”)

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