Fifty percent of total lifetime sunlight exposure occurs in childhood. Because they are particularly vulnerable to harmful UVA and UVB rays, medical experts believe that too much exposure in childhood is a major cause of skin cancer and premature skin aging later in life.

Protecting children early not only significantly reduces the risk of developing skin cancer in adulthood, but also sets a standard for sun safety that the child will carry throughout life.

The sun is strongest between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., but don't believe the myth that these are the only hours that children need to be protected. Even children under a beach umbrella can "catch rays" because they reflect off surrounding concrete, sand or water. Sunny days are not the only time that children need to be protected, either. Depending on the cloud cover, 30-50% of the UV rays still reach the earth, even when it is cloudy.

Wearing Sunscreen

Sunscreens provide protection from the sun by blocking the rays on the skin. Many sunscreen products only protect against UVB rays, which are more dangerous and increase the risk of developing skin cancer. However, UVA rays are also damaging and cause premature aging. For children, use a sunscreen of at least SPF 15 (30 is probably better) and is marked "broad spectrum protection" to block both UVA and UVB rays.

For sensitive areas of the body, such as the nose, cheeks, tops of the ears, and the shoulders, choose a sunscreen or sunblock with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Because these products usually stay visible on the skin even after you rub them in, some now come in fun colors that kids enjoy. Don't forget the lips — use a protective lip balm that contains sunscreen.

Water intensifies the effect of the sun's rays so at the beach or the pool, or even in the back yard with a sprinkler, choose water-resistant products and apply liberally about 30 minutes before going outside. Always reapply at least every two hours, or immediately after swimming or any vigorous activity that causes perspiration, even if the product is marked waterproof. Remember that toweling off can remove even water-resistant sunscreens.

Sun-Protective Clothing

These types of fabrics have a tighter weave or knit and are usually darker in color than typical summer fabrics. The label will also indicate the Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) value. The UPF is based on the amount of sun that is absorbed by the fabric — the higher the number, the greater the protection. For example, if a fabric has a UPF rating of 20, it allows 1/20th of the sun's UV radiation to pass through it, reducing your exposure by 20 times.

Other clothing necessary for children spending time in the sun includes wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses. The American Optometric Association has found that the lenses of young eyes are more transparent than that of adults, risking a greater degree of retinal exposure and later cataracts, macular degeneration and other eye health issues. Sunglasses that are close-fitting and have big or wrap-around lenses offer more protection. Also look for those that are labeled to block at least 99% of both UVA and UVB radiation. A hat or cap can also offer a measure of eye protection.

Special Recommendations for Infants

Babies younger than six months of age should be kept out of direct sunlight as much as possible. While this may be harder to coordinate for parents with other young children, it is very important to protect babies' newborn skin and eyes. Sunscreens are not recommended for babies, as they can irritate the skin, and babies' developing eyes are especially vulnerable to sunlight. Stay in shaded areas as much as possible and If you must take your baby out in the sun, protect him or her with long-sleeves, long pants, and a wide-brimmed hat.

Treating Sunburn

Did you do all you could and your child still got burned? It happens, particularly in very light-skinned children. If the child is very young, consult a doctor for special treatments. Also consult a doctor for any child that has a painful, red burn or if the burn begins to blister or rash. For all other burns, cool the area in tepid water (not cold) for 30 minutes to an hour. Use an after-sun cooling lotion like pure aloe vera to relieve the sting. For severely burned areas, try a thin layer of 1% hydrocortisone cream. Do not use petroleum-based products, because they prevent excess heat and sweat from escaping.

Until the redness is gone, keep your child in the shade (additional sun exposure will only increase the severity of the burn) and moisturize the skin with a lotion made for sensitive skin (no fragrances or alcohol). Remind your child not to scratch or peel off loose skin, because the skin underneath is vulnerable to infection.

Above all, remember that kids are more likely to do these things if adults do them too. Be a good role model and always wear protective sunscreen and sunglasses when outdoors yourself.