There’s no doubt that it’s good for children’s social, emotional, intellectual, and physical health to get outside and play every day. But it’s also important to protect your child’s skin and eyes from the sun while he or she is outside. Young skin, especially before the age of 4, is more vulnerable to sunburn as well as accumulated sun damage that can lead to premature aging and skin cancer. Over time, unprotected childhood exposures to sunlight can lead to cancers of the eye, and early cataracts too. That’s why it’s so important for you to help your child learn to wear a hat with a wide brim and 99%UV block sunglasses outside. The earlier they start, the easier it is for them to form good sun safety habits.
Wearing sunscreen is also important during daylight hours, but it’s a complicated issue. Many sunscreens don’t contain the amount of protection they claim, and many others contain dangerous chemicals like benzene and oxybenzone. In fact, a recent review showed that only 1/4 of sunscreens on the market provided the protection stated without dangerous chemicals! Don’t be fooled by manufacturer’s claims. Get the list of safe effective sunscreens here.