With summer coming into full swing, many of our kids will be spending a lot of time outdoors. That's a great thing, but it's important to protect them while outside.

Infants

If your baby is younger than 6 months, keep him or her out of direct sunlight. Protect your baby from sun exposure by dressing him or her in protective clothing, a hat with a brim and sunglasses.

If your baby is 6 months or older, liberally use sunscreen. Also, avoid exposing your baby to the sun during peak hours — generally 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. — and dress your baby in protective clothing, a hat with a brim and sunglasses.

Children

Look for a sunscreen that is specifically formulated for children, as they have been specially developed for children's sensitive skin. Be sure that the sunscreen provides at least 30 SPF that screens out both UVA and UVB rays. For the best protection, apply sunscreen generously 30 minutes before going outdoors. Don’t forget to protect ears, noses, lips, and the tops of feet. Be sure to reapply it every few hours, and especially after children have been swimming.

Minimizing sun exposure is also important, so send kids out with sunglasses, appropriate clothing, and a brimmed hat.

Mosquitos

In Houston, warm summer fun also comes with mosquitos! Avoid sunscreens that also include DEET, and apply mosquito spray separately. Studies have shown that DEET may be absorbed into the skin more rapidly when used with sunscreens.

Have a fun, happy, and safe summer in the sun!