by Kathleen (Toddler Parent)
As a parent to a toddler, I’ve learned to pick my battles. One that I’ve chosen is sun protection. We have a family history of skin cancer so I’m not taking chances. I’ve had some practice on these early sunny and hot days with wrestling her hat on and slathering her squirming body with sunscreen.
As I’ve educated myself on sun safety, I’ve found some helpful information from the Australian national sun safety campaign “Sun Smart: Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide” .
The easy to remember slogan outlines the steps you and your family can take to avoid harmful sun exposure. Visit the site to get much more detailed information on each step.
1) Slip on covering clothing
If you can see skin, UV can reach it. Try to cover as much skin with cool, loose fitting clothing.
2) Slop on SPF 30 or higher broad spectrum sunscreen
For any skin not covered by clothing, apply a generous amount of SPF 30 or higher broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen about 20 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every two hours. One application is not enough. Only use sunscreen with other forms of sun protection. Sunscreen should never be used to extend time in the sun.
3) Slap on a hat
A good sun protective hat shades the head, face, eyes, ears and neck. Bucket, wide-brimmed or legionnaire hats are best. Baseball caps do not offer enough protection for the cheeks, ears and neck, and are not recommended.
4) Seek shade
Always be sure to keep babies under 12 months well protected and in the shade during the sun protection times. Even in the shade, UV can reflect from surfaces such as sand, glass, brick and concrete, so still use a hat, clothing, sunscreen and sunglasses. Choose play spaces with shade or take some with you.
5) Slide on sunglasses
Sunglasses are recommended any time you are outside to protect your eyes, which are particularly sensitive to the sun’s UV rays. During the sun protection times, use a hat and/or sunglasses to protect your child’s eyes from UV radiation. Note: Toy or fashion-labelled sunglasses do not meet the requirements for sunglasses under the Australian Standard and should not be used for sun protection.