A Fun & Educational Guide for Kids!
Summer is here, and that means it’s time for splashing in pools, building sandcastles, and having tons of fun outdoors. But wait! Before you race outside, there’s something super important to remember: Sun Safety! The sun might look friendly, but it can give us sunburn if we’re not careful. Sunburn is like a bad case of owies – red, itchy, and not fun at all. But don’t worry, becoming a sun safety superhero is easy. Let’s learn the ABCs of sun safety together!
A is for Awesome Hats!
Gear up with a hat! Baseball caps and wide-brimmed hats are both great options to shade your face and head from the sun’s rays. Pick a style you love, with fun colors and designs to complement your outfit.
B is for Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen!
This magic potion shields your skin from UVA and UVB rays, the sneaky sunbeams that cause sunburn. Pick a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher for the best protection. Don’t forget to check for water resistance if you’ll be splashing around! For more information about choosing a sunscreen that’s right for your skin type and learning how to apply it correctly, visit healthychildren.org.
C is for Cool Clothes!
Long sleeves, pants, and swim shirts made with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) are like tiny suits of armor, blocking the sun. But hey, if it’s a really hot day, don’t worry! You can still wear shorts and a t-shirt, just make sure to slather on the sunscreen extra carefully.
D is for Don’t Forget Your Shades!
Sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun’s glare, keeping them healthy and happy. Look for sunglasses that say “UV protection” on the label and choose a cool style that makes you look like a movie star!
E is for Extra Water!
Sunshine can make you sweaty, so staying hydrated is key. Pack a cool water bottle with a fun design and sip often throughout the day. Throw in some slices of cucumber or watermelon for an extra refreshing treat!
F is for Fun in the Shade!
When the sun is at its strongest (between 10 am and 4 pm), find a cool spot under a tree, umbrella, or tent to play and relax. Build a fort, read a book, or have a snack – there are a ton of fun things you can do to beat the heat.
G is for Grown-up Help!
Sunscreen application can be tricky. Ask a grown-up to help you apply sunscreen to all your exposed skin, especially ears, shoulders, and the backs of your legs. Don’t forget those tricky spots behind your knees and under your chin!
H is for Hats On!
Don’t forget to put your hat back on after swimming or playing in the water. Sun-soaked hair can be fun, but remember the sun can still reach your scalp!
I is for Imagination Time!
Being sun-safe doesn’t mean you can’t have fun in the sun. Build a fort out of blankets and chairs, create sunshine art with sidewalk chalk, or write a story about your favorite summer adventure. There are tons of creative ways to enjoy the outdoors without getting burnt.
J is for Join the Sun Safety Squad!
Spread the word to your friends and family about the importance of sun protection. Teach them your awesome ABCs and tell them why sun safety is cool!
K is for Keep Learning!
The more you know about sun safety, the better prepared you are to play safely under the sun. Dive into fun books and websites packed with games and activities about sun safety! Your local library is a treasure trove, or search online for “kids sun safety games.” Check out this resource with some cool games and experiments to get you started!
Now you’ve mastered the ABCs of Sun Safety, you’re officially a sun-safe superhero! Remember, sun safety is fun and keeps you healthy, so you can keep playing all summer long. So grab your hat, shades, and sunscreen, and have an awesome time this summer!
Resources:
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/Sun-Safety.aspx
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/sun-safety.html
https://scdhec.gov/sites/default/files/Library/CR-009529.pdf
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