With summer fast approaching, we want to take a minute to remind our parents about the importance of protecting young children’s skin from harmful sun rays. Here at Wollaston, a childcare center in Quincy, MA, we work hard to mold healthy, well-rounded individuals, and that starts at home.
The most obvious advice we can give is to apply sunscreen – heavily and often. Look for brands that contain zinc oxide and a sun protection factor (SPF) 30 minimum. It’s also to avoid products that contain harmful parabens and chemicals. Young children’s skin is susceptible, and you don’t want to put anything on it that doesn’t need to be there! Further, sunscreen should be “broad spectrum” – meaning that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreen should be applied 15-30 minutes before being in the sun and reapplied every two hours. Reapply more often if your child is in the water!
Here at our childcare center in Quincy, MA, we typically spend time outside whenever the weather permits, so please consider applying sunscreen before they arrive at the center.
Even with sunscreen, you can minimize the sun’s direct contact with the skin by wearing lightweight cotton clothes. Choose colors that don’t absorb sunlight to help keep them cool, even in long sleeves. You may also want to consider putting a broad-brimmed hat on your child to protect the face, ears, and neck. Sunglasses also offer additional eye protection against the bright rays.
Even on cloudy days, the sun’s rays are still strong enough to cause damage. Remember to apply sunscreen and wear appropriate clothing, also if you can’t see the sun!
Summertime fun is excellent for outdoor activities. From the pool to the beach to the backyard to Wollaston’s playground, enjoy your summer safely by being conscious of the sun. Please contact 617-773-7217 to learn more about summer programs here at Wollaston, a top childcare center in Quincy, MA.
