10 Tips for Getting Kids Used to Sunscreen

Using sunscreen is essential to protect our children's skin from the harmful rays of the sun. The adverse effects of the sun can show up years later in their life if, in the early years, we don't protect them religiously from the sun. However, it can often be difficult to convince children to use it regularly. Fortunately, there are several fun and creative ways to get kids used to wearing sunscreen without making it a boring and tedious chore. In this article, we'll give you some fun and practical exercises that can help motivate kids to wear sunscreen so they can enjoy the sun safely and healthily.

Fun ideas to get kids used to wearing sunscreen:

Teaching children the importance of using sunscreen is essential for their protection against the damage of solar radiation. However, convincing children to use sunscreen without making them see it as a nuisance can be challenging. So why not include it in the routine as part of the fun times of the day? Here are some ideas that you will love!

1. Make applying sunscreen a game

Making applying sunscreen fun is a great way to encourage kids to use it. One idea is to turn the app into a “painting” game where kids can apply sunscreen to different parts of their bodies and let them create designs on their skin while protecting themselves from the sun. Of course, do not forget to teach them to spread it correctly when finishing with their beautiful creations.

2. Be a Role Model

 Any parent knows this but children often mimic adults. If they see you applying sunscreen regularly, they're more likely to accept it as a normal routine, and actually, they will themselves ask you to apply it on them as well. 

3. Do a photo session with the "mime effect"

Another fun idea is to ask the children to apply the sunscreen to their faces (a little too much, to simulate the white face of a mime) and then take photos doing funny mimes and gestures. At the end of the session, they should correctly spread the sunscreen from their face to their neck, while they observe the charming results of the photographs.

4. Choose Kid-friendly Products

There are sunscreens available in fun colors, with glitter, or branded with their favorite cartoon characters. These can make the application more appealing to kids. Ensure the sunscreen isn't causing discomfort. Some sunscreens can be sticky or cause stinging, especially near the eyes. Find a brand and type that's comfortable for your child. One fun way is to use Sunscreen Sticks, some children find sunscreen sticks (like giant chapsticks) more fun and less messy to apply, especially on the 

5. Play the "Shadow Game"

The shadow game is another fun way to teach children about the importance of sun protection. In this game, children must find a place in the shade and try to stay there for some time. You can make the game more exciting by adding a timer and every time the timer expires, they have to quickly find another shadow to hide from. Also, you can teach them about the different shades, like shadows from trees or buildings, and how they can help protect their skin from the sun.

6. Use music to motivate them

Music can be a great way to encourage children to use sunscreen. You can create a playlist of fun and energetic songs that talk about the sun and sun protection. When it's time to apply the sunscreen, you can put on the playlist and encourage them to dance while applying the sunscreen.

7. Regular Routine

Once you have used these tips to get them to apply sunscreen for the first few times, make it a part of their daily routine. Over time, it becomes a habit,  just like brushing teeth or washing their hands. 

8. Peer Influence

Sometimes, kids are more willing to do something if they see their friends or siblings doing it. Organize playdates with peers who use sunscreen, or use older siblings as role models.

9. Educational Videos

There are many children's videos and songs online that talk about the importance of sunscreen. Sometimes, a catchy song can make all the difference!

10. Incorporate sunscreen use with math

Lastly, an effective way to ensure children use sunscreen is to incorporate it into their daily routine using math. You can create games of mathematical operations while they apply the appropriate amounts to each part of their body: 2 fingers on the face, 2 fingers on each arm, 4 fingers on the torso, 4 fingers on the back, and 2 fingers on each leg ( If the child is very young, you can decrease the amounts a bit). By doing this, you teach children that using sunscreen is as important a part of their daily lives, just as brushing their teeth is.

Conclusion

Getting children used to using sunscreen with fun games and dynamics can help them learn it in an easy, friendly, and effective way. Remember, the goal is to make sunscreen application a positive and routine experience, rather than a chore or battle. With consistency and creativity, children can learn the importance of protecting their skin. This way, you help incorporate sunscreen use into your daily routine while making it a healthy and enjoyable habit.

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