Sun safety for you and your baby

Your baby's transclucent skin is especially sensitive to the sun. Make sure you enjoy summertime in the warm outdoors playing in the park, taking a stroll, or having a picnic by making sure both baby and you are protected from the sun's harmful rays. Childhood sun damage is the largest contributor to the cumulative risk of skin cancer later on in life, so early prevention is key.

Go absorb some vitamin D, but take note of these tips before you head out:

• Wear a hat! Roots baby accessories collection has a variety of hats to choose from. Try the cute Scallop Sunhat or the slick Urban Plaid Hat.

• Clothing should be loose-fitting, but made with a tightly woven fabric to keep the sunlight out.

• Avoid direct sunlight when the sun is at the highest at 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Even during cloudy days, the sun's rays can be enough to damage delicate skin.

• Apply sunscreen of at least 15 SPF. For children under six months, wear sunscreen only on parts of the body not protected by clothing.

I love the beginning of spring, where the days get longer, and even the sun seems to get brighter. Stay sun safe this summer!

Sources: www.cancer.ca, www.msc-smc.ec.gc.ca