Protecting skin from too much sun — Health, 4–6 years
Sunlight helps us see and spend time outdoors, but too much can hurt skin and eyes. Shade, clothing, a hat and sunscreen help limit that harm.
Sunlight and your skin
Sunlight reaches your skin when you play outside. A little can be pleasant, but too much may make skin red and sore, and bright light can trouble your eyes. Shade, a hat, covering clothes and sunscreen help your skin cope.
Why we make shade
The sun sends energy to Earth, and our skin absorbs some of it. Too much energy can damage skin cells, even before we notice a burn. People learned to use shade, clothing and other protection because they wanted to enjoy outdoors without letting sunlight cause avoidable harm.
Getting ready for the park
Before going to the park, Ana puts on a hat and a light shirt that covers her shoulders. She chooses a shady place for a break and an adult applies sunscreen to the uncovered skin. After playing for 20 minutes, she drinks water and rests in the shade before playing again.
Clouds do not block everything
It is reasonable to think you cannot get too much sun on a cool or cloudy day, because the air may not feel hot. Some sunlight still reaches you, and cool wind can hide how long you have been outside. Follow an adult’s plan for shade and protection, even when the sky is grey.
Sun protection outdoors
Sun protection matters at the beach, in a garden, on a walk or at a playground. A picnic can include a shady blanket, a hat and clothes that cover skin. If your skin feels hot or looks red, tell an adult and move out of the sun; do not rub or hide the change.
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