Children love being outside in the summer, but caregivers and teachers need to take precautions so that children are protected from the sun's rays:

• Keep infants younger than six months out of direct sunlight. Find shade under a tree, umbrella, or stroller canopy;
• Wear a hat or cap with a brim that faces forward to shield the face;
• Limit sun exposure between 10 AM and 2 PM, when UV rays are strongest;
• Wear child-safe, shatter-resistant sunglasses with at least 99% UV protection;
• Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15.

For additional tips and details, please see the NRC's standards on Sun Safety Including Sunscreen and Playing Outdoors, which can also be found in Caring for Our Children: National Health and Safety Performance Standards; Guidelines for Early Care and Education Programs, 3rd Ed. (CFOC3).

Stay safe this coming summer!