Malaysians are living in a truly blessed country. Like any other country, not everything is perfect. In Malaysia, one experiences higher-than-average levels of heat and humidity throughout the year.
The sun may be our friend in the daylight but don’t be fooled, mummies…it can also be bad for our children’s skin and health. But don’t let that stop you from playing outside with your little ones!
DON’T FORGET about sun safety when you bring your children out to play at the playground or the beach. Since they’ll likely experience both short-term and long-term damages from too much exposure to the sun, making a habit of shielding them consistently can help them in the long run.
But do you know that they don’t need prolonged exposures to the sun when playing outdoors for their bodies to produce Vitamin D?
Being exposed to the sun for 15 minutes from the morning sun would suffice to give your children the Vitamin D they need. Longer than that, you would have to start protecting their skin, especially the young ones because their skin is more delicate.
Worry Not, Here Are 6 Really Easy Tips To Protect Your Children From The Sun:
1) Apply Sunscreen Thoroughly
30 minutes before your children go out in the sun, apply sunscreen on their body generously. Pick a good sunscreen with 15 or higher SPF protection (Sun Protection Factor).
A fragranced and coloured sunscreen is pleasant to some children and it makes it even easier for application as most areas on the skin would be very well covered.
After every 2 to 3 hours, or after sweating or swimming, you can reapply the sunscreen on them. Apply it on the nose, ears, hands, feet, shoulders, and behind the neck.
Do you know that your lips are vulnerable to sunburns and chronic sun damage? Lips are an often-neglected part of the body that need sun protection. So, please apply some lip balm, too!
2) Wear Clothes That Cover Up
Forget short pants and sleeves! Wearing clothes that cover up our skin would be the best choice as it can protect the skin from UV damage.
Keep your children covered wherever possible with darker colours, and long sleeves and trousers instead. Try to accessorise with sunglasses and hats as well. Also, don’t forget to bring an umbrella when you’re out in the sun.
3) Limit Outdoor Playtime
When the sun’s rays are at their peak, try to cut playtime short to prevent excessive exposure. Ultraviolet (UV) rays remain high, even on cloudy or cooler days.
Limit their playtime outside from 10.00 AM until 4.00 PM. If they’re still out playing during these hours, remember to apply apply apply high SPF sunscreens on their skin!
4) Be A Good Example To Your Kids
Children will usually try to imitate their parent’s actions. Make sure you stick to these sun-safe rules and your little ones will follow suit.
Skin protection is vital for every family member, so make a pack and team up with them to stay protected when stepping out in the sun.
5) Keep An Eye On Medications
Some medications might increase your skin’s sensitivity to light, so be sure to check with your doctor if your child could be at risk.
Prescriptions such as acne and antibiotic medications are the common culprits but always ask if you’re in doubts or unsure.
6) Stay Hydrated
No matter what weather it is, your child can easily become dehydrated when playing outside, especially when it’s really sunny. Have your child drink enough water – at least 8 glasses per day, mummies!
Start encouraging them to drink small quantities of water regularly while playing (roughly every 20 minutes) and when they’re done, cool them down with water again.
See, it’s really easy to get your children to stay sun-safe while playing outside in the sun without a hitch.
Always keep in mind that children have thinner and more delicate skin than adults. Hence, ensuring proper skin protection for them is essential, mummies. Healthy skin, happy child!
Year-end holidays are great in so many ways, especially when you have fun family activities to fill up your time. For more fun-filled holiday ideas right within your home, visit our Cuti-Cuti Family articles here!