Outdoor activity, including time spent in the sunshine, is important for children’s physical fitness and lifelong health. Although sun exposure plays a vital role in ensuring adequate vitamin D production, protecting children from overexposure to the sun is essential for avoiding damage to the skin and future skin cancer risk.
What actions can we take?
Check the UV index daily and schedule children’s activities accordingly.
When the UV index is 3 or higher, it’s important to protect skin as much as possible.
Cover up or stay out of the sun, especially during peak hours. This is preferable to relying on sunscreen alone for protection.
Seek shade (or stay indoors, if necessary), ensure children have adequate hydration and protective clothing, and watch for signs of heat-related illness.
Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on children at least 30 minutes before going outdoors and before insect repellent, if both are being used.
Encourage parents/caregivers to provide children with a wide-brimmed sun hat and light, loose clothing made from a breathable fabric.
