Maximizing Outdoor Time: Stay Sun-Safe With These Mom Hacks

As a mom, you know how important it is for your kids to get plenty of outdoor time. The warmth of the sun and the expanse of the great outdoors can work wonders in refreshing your kid’s minds, helping them stay active and entertained throughout the day. Playing in the fresh air and sunshine not only aids in their physical development but also enhances their mental and emotional well-being.

However, with fun under the sun comes the responsibility of ensuring your little ones are protected from the sun’s harmful rays. Sunburns, heat exhaustion, and other sun-related health issues can put a damper on outdoor fun. That’s why it’s essential to take sun safety seriously and maximize outdoor time without compromising your family’s well-being.   

In this blog post, you’ll find some practical mom hacks to ensure you and your children enjoy the great outdoors while staying sun-safe.

• Dress for Sun Protection  

When heading outdoors, dressing your children in sun-protective clothing is your first defense against harmful UV rays. So, dress your kids in lightweight, loose-fitting garments and cover as much of their skin as possible.  If there are instances where your kids are indecisive or anxious about the clothes you want them to wear, you can try matching your outfits! You and your kid can both wear loose-fitting garments with matching personalized shirt designs through silkscreen printing. Then, to complete the ensemble, provide them with wide-brimmed hats to protect your child’s face, neck, and ears.

As for moms like you, you must also pay attention to your clothing choices to ensure maximum protection from the sun. When going outdoors with your kids, wear loose-fitting garments made from cotton or linen. You can also wear wide-brimmed hats to block the UV rays from hitting your head and face while, at the same time, keeping your head cool.  

Your eyes are also vulnerable to UV damage. Protect them by wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.

• Choose the Right Sunscreen  

Not all sunscreens are manufactured the same. That said, among the most important steps in sun safety is using the right sunscreen. Find a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least 30 SPF. Then, apply it generously to all exposed areas of your child’s skin, including the face, neck, and ears. Do the same for your skin as well. Reapply every two hours or more frequently if you and your kids are swimming or sweating.

• Plan Outdoor Activities Wisely  

Planning your outdoor activities wisely can also help maximize your family’s sun-safe time. As much as possible, avoid scheduling activities between 10 am to 4 pm when the sun’s heat is most extreme. Instead, opt for early morning or late afternoon outings when the sun’s rays are less intense. Furthermore, consider seeking shaded areas, such as parks with trees or covered picnic spots.

By planning your outdoor adventures thoughtfully, you can reduce the risk of sunburn and help your children enjoy outdoor playtime to the fullest.

• Create a Sun-Safe Picnic Spot  

Picnics are a popular outdoor activity for families, but it’s important to create a sun-safe picnic spot. Start by selecting an area with natural shade or bring portable shade options like a beach umbrella or pop-up tent. Once you’ve found the perfect spot, set up your picnic away from direct sunlight to keep your family cool and protected. Additionally, don’t forget to lay out blankets or mats to avoid direct contact with hot surfaces. 

By creating a sun-safe picnic spot, you can ensure your family can enjoy delicious meals and quality time together while minimizing sun exposure.

• Stay Hydrated  

Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when spending time outdoors. Encourage your children to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Make it fun by freezing fruit slices or berries in ice cubes and adding them to their water bottles. This not only keeps the water cool but also adds a refreshing twist.   

Furthermore, avoid sugary drinks and sodas, as they can lead to dehydration. By prioritizing hydration, you and your children can beat the heat and stay energized during outdoor activities.

• Pack Healthy and Sun-Resistant Munchies  

Pack healthy, sun-resistant snacks that won’t spoil in the heat. Fruit slices, for instance, are an excellent choice for outdoor snacking, providing a burst of natural sweetness and hydration. You can go for fruits like watermelon, cantaloupe, and oranges, which are not only delicious but also relatively sun-resistant. To keep them cool, store the fruit slices in an insulated container or a cooler with ice packs.  

Dried fruits and nuts are compact, portable, and also packed with nutrients. They’re a great option for snacking on the go. You can choose varieties like raisins, apricots, and dates for the dried fruit component and pair them with almonds, walnuts, or cashews. These options are less prone to melting or spoiling in the sun.

• Have A Sunburn First Aid Kit  

Despite taking all the necessary precautions, sunburn can still occur, especially in the scorching summer heat. Being prepared with a well-stocked sunburn first aid kit is essential to provide quick relief and care when your family members experience this uncomfortable condition.   

To do so, have an aloe vera gel and over-the-counter pain relievers on hand to soothe the discomfort and redness. Sunburn relief sprays are also helpful as they’re specifically designed to provide quick and even coverage to sunburned areas. Consider keeping a can of this spray in your kit for convenience.

Wrap Up  

With these mom hacks, you can maximize outdoor time while keeping your family sun-safe. So, go ahead and make the most of the sunshine, knowing you have the tools and knowledge to protect yourself and your family’s skin and health. Happy outdoor adventures!