Shade first
UV rays are strongest between about 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Plan outdoor play in the morning or late afternoon where possible, and seek shade under trees, umbrellas or canopies. A useful rule: if your child’s shadow is shorter than they are, the sun’s rays are at their strongest.
Protective clothing
- Lightweight long sleeves and pants, ideally tightly woven
- Clothing with a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) label for extra protection
- A wide-brimmed hat that shades the face, ears and neck
- Sunglasses with UV protection
Choosing sunscreen
- Broad-spectrum (protects against UVA and UVB)
- SPF 30 or higher
- Water-resistant for swimming and sports
- Mineral formulas (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) are often gentler for sensitive skin
Applying sunscreen, step by step
- Apply about 15 minutes before going outside.
- Use enough to cover all exposed skin — for an older child, often about a shot-glass amount for the body.
- Don’t forget ears, back of the neck, tops of feet, hands and along the hairline or part.
- Use an SPF lip balm.
- Reapply at least every two hours, and after swimming, sweating or towel-drying.
Tip: Sticks are great for faces and wriggly kids; sprays should be sprayed into hands first and rubbed in, not sprayed near the face.
Sun protection for melanin-rich skin
Darker skin has more natural protection, but it can still burn and be damaged by UV. Sun exposure can also darken existing marks. The same shade, clothing and sunscreen advice applies to all children.
If your child gets sunburned
- Get out of the sun and cool the skin with a cool (not icy) bath or damp cloth.
- Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer or aloe gel.
- Offer extra fluids.
- Dress in loose, soft clothing and keep out of the sun until healed.
- Ask your pediatrician about pain relief.
Making sun protection a habit
Children are far more likely to keep up sun protection when it’s simply part of getting ready, like putting on shoes. Try building it into your routine:
- Apply sunscreen as part of getting dressed on outdoor days.
- Keep hats by the door, in the car and in backpacks.
- Let children pick their own hat and sunglasses.
- Check school and camp policies and send labeled sunscreen if allowed.
At every age
Every child is different — use these as a starting point, not a rulebook.
Under 6 months
Keep out of direct sun. Shade and clothing first; minimal sunscreen only if needed.
6 months–5 years
Adults apply sunscreen, hats and clothing. Make it a routine before outdoor time.
6–12 years
Teach children to apply and reapply sunscreen themselves, with checks.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Relying on sunscreen alone.
- Using too little sunscreen.
- Forgetting to reapply after swimming.
- Skipping protection on cloudy days — UV passes through clouds.
- Assuming darker skin doesn’t need sunscreen.
Helpful parent tips
- Keep sunscreen in the car, backpack and by the door.
- Put sunscreen on before swimsuits so you don’t miss the edges.
- Model sun protection yourself — children copy what you do.
When to call a professional
Everyday care supports comfort — it doesn’t diagnose or treat. Contact your pediatrician, dermatologist or healthcare provider if you notice:
- Sunburn with blistering over a large area, fever, chills or severe pain.
- Signs of dehydration or heat illness: dizziness, headache, confusion, fainting.
- Any sunburn in a baby under 1 year.
Questions parents ask
Is sunscreen safe for kids?
Yes. The AAP and AAD recommend sunscreen for children 6 months and older, alongside shade and clothing.
How long does sunscreen last?
Reapply at least every two hours and after swimming or sweating. Check the expiration date on the bottle.
Do children need sunscreen at school?
If they’ll be outside during peak hours, yes. Check your school’s policy on sending sunscreen in.
Should I choose mineral or chemical sunscreen?
Both protect well when used correctly. Mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) are often gentler for sensitive skin. The best sunscreen is one your child will actually wear.
