The Benefits of the Sun and the Risks of Excessive Exposure
Getting some fresh air is good for everyone, from adults to toddlers, and the sun offers many benefits:
- the skin breathes;
- sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D, which is essential for bone growth;
- the sun brings joy.
Excessive sun exposure can cause heatstroke or sunburn in children and increases the risk of skin cancer in adulthood. That’s why following a few simple precautions allows you to enjoy the outdoors while minimizing these risks.
Clothing and Accessories: Best Practices
- a hat and a T-shirt (ideally UV-protective);
- sunglasses that meet European standards (CE);
- if possible, choose shaded areas for outdoor play.
Choose a children’s sunscreen with a high protection factor (SPF 50 or higher), applying it generously to the most exposed parts of the body.
Adjusting outdoor activities: timing, shade, and special considerations for babies
Avoid sun exposure between noon and 4 p.m., or during the hottest hours of the day, and encourage your child to play in the shade. For babies under 12 months, direct sun exposure should always be avoided; staying in the shade is the rule. Finally, remember to keep your child hydrated regularly and offer them a refreshing bath in case of extreme heat.