Create a Sun-safe Oasis in Your Own Backyard

From swing sets and sandboxes to barbecues and badminton nets, your family’s backyard is the place to be when the warm weather hits. But are you taking precautions to keep you and your little ones safe from the sun while spending time outdoors?

Dermatologist, Dr. Julia Carroll, cautions that while protection is important for everyone, childhood is one of the most important times to practice sun safety as the most harmful effects from sun exposure often occur during these years.

“Using sunscreens designed specifically for the sensitive skin of babies and kids is an important first step to help protect your child’s skin,” she says. “But don’t stop with your kids. Lead by example, and show them how important sun protection is to your whole family.”

Dr. Carroll and the Banana Boat sunscreen brand have partnered to provide tips for how to create the perfect – and sun-safe – oasis this summer:

• Scope out your lawn – Take notice of where the sun tends to spend the majority of the day, and choose another location to set up a play area for your kids. Consider planting a tree, or even some shrubs to provide additional shade for your little ones, especially if your yard gets sun throughout the day.

• Stay mobile – Invest in a large umbrella that you can move as the sun shifts throughout the day. If your children like to bounce from spot to spot – as most do – this allows you to move the shade with them no matter where they play.

• Stock up – Consider purchasing a waterproof outdoor storage bin that you can stock with hats, clothing, water bottles and sunscreen. Not only will this save you from taking a trip indoors, but if friends stop by, you can provide sun protection for them too.

Remember that while shade will help keep your kids cool throughout the summer months, it’s important to apply sunscreen daily, and reapply every two hours at least. Look for a sunscreen that is tear- and sting-free, like Banana Boat Baby and Kids Natural Reflect Sunscreen Lotions, which provide broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection for your little ones.

For more family-friendly sun protection tips, visit: www.bananaboat.ca

www.newscanada.com

Image Credit: houseandhome.com