Posted on 03/20/2023
Kids need to play outdoors! They need to experience nature and get that Vitamin D. But at the same time, we want to protect our kids from the harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun. As we learn about risk factors for Melanoma and how clouds and shade affect our exposure to those rays, we all want to know more ways we can protect our kids against these potentially deadly threats.
Sun-Protective Clothing
Sun-protective clothing is trending these days, but the price point may be a little daunting. Factors such as fiber type, construction, and dyes all impact a garment's UPF. According to a test conducted by Consumer Reports, you don't necessarily need to pay big bucks for clothing with an UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) number. All fabrics lessen UV radiation somehow by changing the UV rays into heat, rendering most of them harmless. While some fabrics are more effective than others, the more coverage your child has, the more protected he or she will be.
The impact of sun-protective clothing is most significant when a person is at higher altitudes or closer to the equator than usual or near a reflective surface such as water. Since swim suits also typically provide less coverage than other types of clothing and any fabric's UPF is typically lessened when wet, rash guard swim suits provide especially helpful protection. Once only available through specialty retailers, rash guard style suits are now available through most stores that carry children's clothing. Here are some stores that carry cute designs:
• Land's End
• Gymboree
• Kohl's
Wearing wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective sun glasses should also be part of your child's sun-protective routine.
Bottled Sun Block
Anytime your child will be outdoors during daylight hours for longer than 15 minutes, he or she should put on sun block with an SPF of 30 or higher. This will protect against both burning and tanning, which indicate sun damage and increase risk of Melanoma. Be sure to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Most experts recommend lotions instead of sprays and staying away from brands that include PABA. If your child has especially sensitive skin, choose a product with titanium dioxide listed as an active ingredient. Don't allow self-tanner sunscreens unless they include UV protection.
In addition to using the right sun block, be sure to use it correctly for optimal results:
• Apply sun screen to all exposed skin 15-30 minutes before going outside
• Don't forget to apply lip balm with at least 30 SPF
• Use about 1 ounce (the capacity of a shot glass) to cover exposed areas
• Reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours and more frequently if water or sweat are involved
• Use water-resistant sunscreen for swimming
• Toss sun screen that's past its expiration date or over 3 years old
Don't forget to "practice what you preach" and protect your own skin from sun damage, as well.
The Bedroom Source
Located near the Roosevelt Field Mall on Long Island, The Bedroom Source is your source for the best collection of children's and teen bedroom furniture. From flexibly configurable Maxtrix furniture to fashionable, durable New England custom built collections, The Bedroom Source offers high end furniture and professional design assistance to create the bedroom of your child's dreams.
Contact the friendly staff at The Bedroom Source by calling (516) 248-0600 or by submitting our online contact form. We're a local family owned mom & pop store. When you shop with us, you're dealing directly with the owners. We professionally assemble everything we sell. We deliver to Nassau, Suffolk, the 5 Boroughs, Southern Westchester, Southwestern Connecticut & Northern New Jersey.