Kids and Sun Safety: A Parent’s Guide to Safe Outdoor Fun

Children thrive when they can run, play, explore, and spend time outdoors. From playground adventures to family vacations and youth sports, outdoor activities are an important part of growing up. But with all the benefits of sunshine comes an important responsibility: protecting children from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Why Sun Safety Matters

The sun provides warmth, light, and energy that support life on Earth. However, UV radiation can damage the skin and eyes and increase the risk of skin cancer over time. Skin cancer remains the most common form of cancer in the United States, making prevention especially important from an early age.

Many parents are surprised to learn that a significant portion (about 1/4) of lifetime sun exposure happens during childhood, making early sun protection one of the most important investments you can make in your child’s long-term health.1 Even a single blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence can double a person's risk of developing melanoma later in life.²

Children often spend extended periods outdoors when UV exposure is strongest. Because their skin is still developing and they have many years of potential sun exposure ahead of them, establishing healthy sun habits early can significantly reduce future health risks.

The good news is that protecting children from excessive UV exposure is simple when families incorporate a few key habits into their daily routines.

Sun Protection Is More Than Sunscreen ³

While sunscreen is important, it should be viewed as one part of a complete sun-protection strategy. Australia's SunSmart campaign offers a comprehensive approach to sun safety: Slip, Slap, Slop, Seek, Slide!

Slip on Sun-Protective Clothing

Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants provide an effective physical barrier against UV radiation. Protective clothing is especially valuable for infants and young children who may not tolerate frequent sunscreen applications.

Slap on a Wide-Brimmed Hat

A hat with at least a three-inch brim helps shield the face, ears, and back of the neck, areas that are commonly exposed to the sun and prone to sunburn.

Slop on SPF

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin at least 20 minutes before going outdoors. Reapply every two hours and after swimming, sweating, or toweling off. Remember, sunscreen works best when applied generously and used with other sun-protection measures.

Seek Shade

Whenever possible, encourage children to play under trees, canopies, umbrellas, or other covered areas. Shade significantly reduces direct UV exposure and can help keep children cooler during hot weather.

Slide on Sunglasses

Children's eyes are also vulnerable to UV damage. Sunglasses with proper UV protection and sufficient coverage help protect the eyes from harmful radiation coming from multiple angles.

Choosing a Sunscreen 1

Walking down the sunscreen aisle can feel overwhelming. Lotions, sprays, sticks, mineral formulas, chemical/organic formulas, and dozens of SPF (Sun Protection Factor) options compete for attention.

The most important factor is choosing a sunscreen labeled "broad spectrum" with an SPF of 30 or higher. Sunscreens with an SPF of 30 block about 97% of UVB radiation, and the "broad spectrum" label means they also block UVA. Both UVB and UVA are contributors to skin damage and skin cancer risk.

For children with sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often a good choice. These ingredients sit on the skin's surface and reflect UV radiation. One drawback is that they may leave a visible white cast, even after you rub them in thoroughly.

Whether you choose a lotion, spray, or stick, all forms can be effective when applied correctly. The best sunscreen is the one your family will use consistently.

How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly 1

Even the best sunscreen cannot do its job if it is not used correctly.

Parents should apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going outdoors and use it whenever children spend time outside. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or immediately after swimming. Reapply more often if a child is sweating heavily or toweling off frequently.

One of the most common mistakes families make is using too little sunscreen. Adults typically need about one ounce, roughly the amount that fits in a shot glass, to cover their entire body. Children require smaller amounts based on their size, but parents should still apply more than they think is necessary to ensure adequate protection.

Figure 1. Sunscreen in a one-ounce glass. Image reproduced from an article by Michelle Skelly, "Belief Wearing Sunscreen Is Bad for You? Misleading!", LinkedIn

Special Considerations for Children Under Six Months 1, 4

Protecting babies younger than six months requires extra caution.

Whenever possible, infants should be kept out of direct sunlight. Use protective clothing and shade as the primary methods of sun protection. If shade and clothing aren't available, use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide-containing sunscreens sparingly on small exposed areas, such as the face.

Stroller canopies, umbrellas, and lightweight protective clothing are excellent tools for minimizing direct sun exposure in this age group.

Figure 2. Baby in shaded area outdoors. Reproduced from an article by Kristina at All About Momma. Available at: https://allaboutmomma.com/best-baby-gear-for-the-outdoors

Building Lifelong Sun-Safe Habits

The best approach to sun protection is making it a routine part of everyday life. Children who grow up seeing sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and shade as normal parts of outdoor activities are more likely to continue those healthy behaviors into adulthood.

Parents and caregivers play a powerful role in shaping these habits. Children learn by watching the adults around them, so when parents prioritize sun safety themselves, it shows that these behaviors are a normal and important part of staying healthy. Modeling sun-safe habits not only protects children today but also teaches lifelong practices that can reduce their risk of skin damage and skin cancer in the future.

Sun safety does not mean avoiding the outdoors. Instead, it means enjoying outdoor activities responsibly. By utilizing sun-safe habits, families can help children stay active, healthy, and protected for years to come.

References

1. Sun Protection: What Parents Need to Know. Pediatric Patient Education. Published January 15, 2026. doi:10.1542/peo_document044. Available at: https://publications.aap.org/patiented/article/doi/10.1542/peo_document044/79947/Sun-Protection-What-Parents-Need-to-Know

2. Rush J. Childhood sunburns are raising the risk of melanoma skin cancer. Melanoma Focus. Published May 14, 2024. Accessed September 4, 2026. Available at: https://melanomafocus.org/news-blog/childhood-sunburns-areraising-the-risk-of-melanoma-skin-cancer/

3. Protect Your Skin. SunSmart. Accessed September 4, 2026. Available at: https://www.sunsmart.com.au/protect-your-skin

4. Infant sun protection: How parents can keep their baby safe. American Academy of Dermatology. Accessed September 4, 2026. Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skincancer/protect-babies-from-sun