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Tips for Sun Safety

Sun safety is the development and practice of positive health habits to reduce exposure to ultraviolet radiation and protect the skin and eyes from permanent damage. Sun safety in child care centers begins by having outdoor areas with ample shade, preferably in the form of large mature trees.

Overexposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause sunburns, wrinkles, freckles, cataracts and skin cancer by triggering the abnormal growth of skin cells. Over 1 million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year in the U.S. Though skin cancer usually develops in adults, it is believed that the condition is triggered by severe sunburns during childhood and accumulated lifetime exposure to the UV radiation. Most people receive up to 80% of their total lifetime exposure to the sun during the first 18 years of life. Just one severe sunburn during childhood can double the risk of developing skin cancer later in life.

Safe sun habits include staying inside during the sun's peak hours from 10 AM to 3 PM if you do not have fully shaded areas. Cover up with clothing, sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats. Children should always wear sunscreen with at least an SPF of 15 or more. Sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes before exposure to the sun and should be reapplied every 2 hours. Use waterproof sunscreen that cannot be washed off by water or sweat. Do not use sunscreen on babies under the age of six months. Cover them up with clothing and shade instead.

Vicki Stoecklin, Education and Child Development Director, at White Hutchinson can help you create a shaded play garden for your outdoor play environment using natural materials. Contact her at +1.816.931-1040 to discuss the use of natural shade.

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