Getting Kids to Use Sun Protection: Kids Corner

Aired on Lifetime Television
Sunday, July 30 and November 19, 2006

Show 320

You wouldn't let them ride in car without a seatbelt, or ride a bike without a helmet. So why let them out of the house without sun protection? Applying sunscreen is a daily routine kids should learn, like brushing their teeth. Use one ounce of sunscreen for each application. And make sure you cover all areas of exposed skin like feet, ears, nose, neck, and hands. For lips, use a balm with an SPF of 15 or more. In the hot summer months, the sun's rays are the strongest and most damaging between 10am and 3pm. Try to plan your trip to the beach later in the day to avoid peak hours. Hats and sunglasses are essential to help protect your kids' eyes from the bright, hot, summer sun. But summer isn't the only time of year to use sun protection. A snowy winter day or cloudy spring afternoon can also be risky. Even if the sun isn't shining bright, its rays can still cause sun damage. Regardless of the activity, the same rules apply. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours. Sunscreen in a spray bottle is great to use on the beach for a quick and easy application. If you practice sun safety with your kids, chances are they'll have a sunny attitude about keeping their skin protected.