Did you know that getting just one bad sunburn as a child can double the risk of getting skin cancer later in life?

Here are the top 5 ways to keep your kids safe in the summer sun:

1. Try to find shady places to play when the sun is strongest (10a to 4p). Keep young babies (under 6 months) in the shade as much as possible.


2. Cover up with UV-protective swimwear. They're increasingly common these days, and you can find "rash guards" or sun shirts sold at popular stores like Target and Old Navy. You can also get plenty of sun protective swimwear for kids and adults of all ages online from sites like Solartex and Sand Pail Kids.


3. Slather plenty of sunblock (SPF 30 or higher) on all exposed skin (for children over 6 months of age). Most people use too little sunblock, so really slop it on! Reapply it frequently - after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying. Look for a non-chemical sunblock like the ones made by California Baby.


4. Put on a sun hat with a nice wide brim that will shade their face, ears, neck, and shoulders.


5. Don't forget their little eyes! Sun exposure can do damage to eyes and lead to cataracts later in life, so find some UV-blocking sunglasses for your kids. Even the littlest babies can wear fun shades like the ones made by Baby Banz.

Above all, set a good example. Most parents protect their children from the sun, but fail to protect their own skin. Wear your sunglasses, hats, and sunblock, and have fun playing outside with your kiddos this summer.