Do You Have Any Advice For Encouraging Kids To Take Sun Protection Seriously?

"With everything opening back up again, do you have any recommendations for helping to encourage kids to be safe in terms of sun exposure now that they can play with friends again and do more team sports etc.?" - sent to us by anonymous

This is clearly a very serious issue and especially so this year since many of us have been encouraging our kids (as well as older children) to stay inside and away from other families. While well intentioned to minimize risk of catching or spreading COVID, now that they are spending more time outside this summer, sun protection is something they might not be as aware of. On top of that, many parents might have forgotten how easy young skin can burn and the importance of protecting it through a combination of limiting exposure, SPF specific clothing, and chemical sun protection creams and lotions. 

The sun is shining and the days are getting longer. It's time for families to enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about being protected from harmful UV rays.

Ways Dads Can Improve Their Children's Sun Protection:

Here are some of our favorite tips for dads looking to keep their kids safe this summer when it comes to sun protection.

1. Set an example by wearing sunscreen yourself and showing your children that they should do the same.
2. Encourage them to use a higher SPF than you, because it decreases the risk of skin cancer later in life.
3. Buy more expensive brands if they complain about cost, because these provide better protection from UVA/UVB rays (the cheaper brands only protect against UVB).
4. Pick a sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as an active ingredient because these are less likely to cause a reaction than other ingredients.
5. Stock up on sunscreen now, before the summer solstice arrives in June and your child goes into full sun exposure for longer periods of time each day.
6. Encourage them to wear hats and sunglasses when they're outdoors as well--these will help protect their eyes and face from damage.
7. Teach them to avoid tanning beds, because these are one of the most significant dangers in terms of UV exposure.
8. Check their skin regularly for signs of sunburn or any other sun damage and encourage them to use natural remedies if necessary (aloe vera gel).

What "Ask The Men" Says About Kids And Sun Protection!

Our male lifestyle and dad blogger experts also shared some of their advice on how dads can protect kids from the sun this summer. Let's take a look at their advice!

Chad from UnfinishedMan.com

I'm not a doctor, nor do I play one on the Internet. However, my personal opinion (based on best available evidence) is that lack of sun is far more detrimental to health than the occasional over-exposure to it. Basic sun protection methods like sunscreen is important, but parents should encourage kids to play outside and rest in the shade when they're tired.

James from ManTripping.com

Children can have sensitive skin and this means that it is important to protect them from direct sun exposure ... and it is also important to avoid sunscreen products with harsh chemicals. We encourage parents to make sure their kids dress appropriately with lightweight but long sleeve shirts and pants where possible and wear hats. Apply sunscreen only to exposed parts of the body like the face, neck, hands, and tops of the feet as necessary.

Mike from TheGentlemanRacer.com

I don't have kids but hats are a great way to help anyone avoid direct sun exposure.