Protecting Your Amazing Skin This Summer: Sunscreen Tips for Every Kid

Protecting Your Amazing Skin This Summer: Sunscreen Tips for Every Kid

Summer is a time for fun—whether you’re splashing at the pool, playing outside, or simply enjoying the sunshine. But while you’re having all that fun, it’s important to protect your skin from the sun’s rays. Whether you’re neurotypical or neurodivergent, your skin needs the same care and protection.

With Skin Cancer Awareness Day approaching, let’s learn why wearing sunscreen is super important for everyone, and how we can make applying it a fun part of our routine, no matter how you like to experience the world.

What Does the Sun Do to Your Skin?

The sun’s light feels warm, but it also gives off something invisible called UV (ultraviolet) rays. These rays can damage your skin if you don’t protect it.

There are two types of UV rays:

• UVA Rays: These rays go deep into your skin, which can cause wrinkles and skin damage as you grow older.
• UVB Rays: These rays affect the surface of your skin and cause sunburn.

Everyone’s skin, whether you’re fair or dark, neurotypical or neurodivergent, is affected by these rays. And over time, too much exposure to UV rays can lead to skin cancer. That’s why applying sunscreen is like putting on a superhero shield that protects your skin while you’re having fun in the sun!

Why Sunscreen is Important for All Kids

No matter who you are, sunscreen helps in so many ways:

1. Stops Sunburns: Sunburns can make your skin red, painful, and itchy. Applying sunscreen helps keep your skin safe from these burns.
2. Prevents Skin Damage: Too much sun can make your skin look older faster. Wearing sunscreen helps your skin stay soft and healthy.
3. Reduces the Risk of Skin Cancer: Sunscreen protects your skin from the harmful effects of UV rays, reducing the risk of skin cancer later in life.

Making Sunscreen Fun and Sensory-Friendly

For some kids, especially neurodivergent kids, the feeling or smell of sunscreen can be uncomfortable. But don’t worry—there are lots of ways to make applying sunscreen fun and sensory-friendly! Here are some tips to make sure everyone enjoys their sun protection:

• Find a Sunscreen That Feels Right for You: Sunscreen comes in different forms like lotions, sprays, and sticks. If you don’t like the feel of one type, try another! Stick sunscreen might feel better on your skin than lotion, and sprays are great for a quick, easy application.
• Choose a Scent You Like: Sunscreens come in all sorts of smells, from tropical to fragrance-free. If strong smells bother you, try an unscented sunscreen.
• Turn It into a Fun Routine: Make sunscreen part of your fun summer routine. Set a timer and apply it every two hours or create a game out of it by pretending you’re suiting up like a superhero. You can also pick a fun hat or sunglasses to wear after applying sunscreen!
• Use Visual and Sensory Cues: For kids who prefer visual or tactile cues, use a visual timer or a favourite textured object to help with the routine of applying sunscreen.

How to Apply Sunscreen Like a Pro

Applying sunscreen is easy once you get the hang of it! Here’s a simple guide:

1. Pick the Right SPF: SPF stands for "Sun Protection Factor." Choose sunscreen with at least SPF 30, which blocks most of the harmful UV rays.
2. Cover All Exposed Skin: Make sure to put sunscreen on all the parts of your body that will be in the sun, like your arms, legs, face, neck, and even the tops of your feet. Don't forget those tricky spots, like behind your ears!
3. Reapply Often: Sunscreen doesn’t last all day. If you’re outside for a long time, make sure to reapply every two hours, or sooner if you’ve been swimming or sweating.

Extra Tips for Fun in the Sun

Along with sunscreen, there are other ways to keep your skin safe while still having the best time:

• Wear a Hat and Sunglasses: Hats keep the sun off your face and neck, while sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays. Look for sunglasses that say they block 100% of UV rays.
• Find Some Shade: If the sun is super bright, take breaks in the shade. A tree, umbrella, or even a building can give you a cool spot to relax.
• Wear Protective Clothing: Long sleeves and special clothes made with UV-blocking fabric can keep your skin safe too.

Enjoy the Sun, Stay Safe!

Summer is all about having fun outside, and by wearing sunscreen, you can protect your skin and still enjoy every moment. Whether you’re neurotypical or neurodivergent, finding a sunscreen that works for you is important to make sure you’re comfortable and safe.

By making sunscreen part of your routine and finding what feels good for your skin, you’re taking a big step toward protecting yourself now and for the future. So, get ready, suit up with sunscreen, grab your hat and sunglasses, and enjoy all the summer fun while keeping your amazing skin safe!