Holly Hartman
Keeping Kids Safe in the Sun
Oklahoma has plenty of sunny days to enjoy in every season, and outside play is important for our children’s healthy development. To make their time outdoors safe, sun protection for young children is a must. Infants and toddlers are especially sensitive to sun-related skin damage, heat rash, and even heat exhaustion. Here are some ways to keep your child from overheating.
No Sun for Infants: Babies younger than six months should stay out of the sun. Their bodies have not developed enough to handle the temperature, and they also are not ready to be drinking water. Use a shaded stroller for short outside walks, only when the temperature is below 90°.
Water: Make sure children older than 6 months stay hydrated before, during, and after they play outside. If your little one objects to drinking water, make popsicles out of plain water to offer instead
Cool Clothing: Covering up as much skin as possible is the best defense against sunburn. Dress your kids in light weight, loose-fitting clothes with plenty of room for airflow. Don’t forget to add a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses!
Choose the Right Sunscreen: Have your children wear sunscreen. Make sure the sunscreen says “broad spectrum” to protect against UVA and UVB rays. The higher the SPF – 30 or higher - the better the protection. Apply a thick layer of sunscreen 20-30 minutes before going outside for the best protection, and reapply every two hours, especially if your kids are playing in water.
Go early or late: Try to plan outdoor time early and late in the day. Stay indoors when the sun is the strongest, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Take Breaks: Monitor your child’s activity level and make sure they take regular breaks in the shade or in an air-conditioned area.
Hot Cars can be Deathtraps: The interior temperature of a parked car can rise by almost 20°F in just 10 minutes, even with a cracked window, quickly leading to heatstroke. Never leave a child of any age in a parked car. Never!
Know the signs: Learn the signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion, and what to do if your child shows any signs of overheating. Check the CDC website or ask your doctor for more information.