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ABC’s of sun safety for
kids |
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In the first 18 years of life, we obtain about 80% of
our lifetime sun exposure, according to the American
Academy of Dermatology. This fact increases our need
for sun prevention as early as possible. Children 6
months and older should wear sunscreen, hats when possible,
and stay in the shade when playing outside. Be sure
to read the back of your sunscreen bottles carefully,
but most bottles explain to apply liberally and avoid
children's eyes and hands. Hands are an important consideration
since most children rub their eyes and sunscreen in
one’s eyes can be very irritating. The American Academy
of Dermatology has a detailed website explaining other
sun safety at www.aad.org/pamphlets/ABCsFunSun.html.
One convenient rhyme is to teach your children the ABCs
of sun safety.
In the first 18 years of life, we obtain about 80% of
our lifetime sun exposure, according to the American
Academy of Dermatology. This fact increases our need
for sun prevention as early as possible. Children 6
months and older should wear sunscreen, hats when possible,
and stay in the shade when playing outside. Be sure
to read the back of your sunscreen bottles carefully,
but most bottles explain to apply liberally and avoid
children's eyes and hands. Hands are an important consideration
since most children rub their eyes and sunscreen in
one’s eyes can be very irritating. The American Academy
of Dermatology has a detailed website explaining other
sun safety at www.aad.org/pamphlets/ABCsFunSun.html.
One convenient rhyme is to teach your children the ABCs
of sun safety.
A is for Away- Stay away from the sun in the middle
of the day. The best times to go outside are before
10:00 am and after 4:00 pm and stay in the shade when
possible.
B is for Block- Use sunscreen that is SPF 15 or higher.
Reapply every 2 hours, after swimming or after intense
activity. A little tip: Sunscreens now come in a stick
form, for easier application. C is for Cover- Wear a
t-shirt and a hat outside. Tightly woven clothing filters
out ultraviolet rays and reflects heat to keep you feeling
cool.
S is for Speak Out- Talk about sun safety with family
and friends. Inform others, especially camp counselors,
troop leaders, day care providers and those taking care
of children during the day. They need to know their
ABCs as well.
Sun safety is important for everyone. Please have fun
this summer and remember to be safe! |
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