Find Out More
Parents & Educators
Summers in Canada are short in duration, but long in pleasure. Millions of adults and children participate in various outdoor activities for exercise, for health, for transportation or simply to enjoy the natural environment.
Wearing proper sun protection with an SPF of at least 15 — whenever outdoors — will help prevent serious sunburn. However, small children may require a higher level of SPF, since their skin is even more sensitive to the sun’s rays.
Outdoor physical activity is healthy, fun and safe if you follow the four sun guide basics.
Minimize Sun Exposure
- Schedule outdoor physical activities when UV rays are at their weakest - before 11:00 a.m. and after 4:00 p.m., especially between the months of April and October.
- Always keep children under the age of one out of the sun.
- Remember that skin doesn't have to be hot to burn, so don't be fooled by cloudy or overcast weather.
- Remember too that water, snow, sand and concrete can reflect and increase the sun's burning rays.
Seek and Create Shade
- Seek natural shade from trees and buildings.
- Plant trees in schoolyards and other play areas.
- Use shade umbrellas, or create other forms of shade if natural shade is not possible.
- Keep playpens, strollers and carriages in shaded areas.
Cover Up
- Cover children's heads, necks and ears with a broad brimmed hat when outdoors.
- Protect arms and legs with tightly woven, loose fitting, cotton clothing.
- Children should wear a T-shirt over their bathing suit, and long shorts instead of short shorts.
- Wear UVA/UVB protective sunglasses--children can wear them too.
Use Sunscreen
- Have children use a broad spectrum sunscreen (protects against both UVA and UVB rays) with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or more.
- Apply sunscreen generously before all outdoor physical activities such as swimming, skateboarding, biking or even walking. Remember to apply at least 20 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply often, as perspiration will reduce the effectiveness.
