The arrival of warmer days invites us to embrace afternoons at the beach, poolside gatherings, and unforgettable family vacations. For parents, this comes with the added consideration of how to keep your little ones safe in the sun. Gone are the days of diving right in–as you now want to check the labels for phrases like UPF coverage. But worry not! We'll help you make sense of sun safety guidelines and products for your kids. 

Choosing the Right Swimsuit

The best swimsuits not only look cute, but also protect the skin. For maximum protection, opt for swimsuits with UPF fabric, which acts as a shield against the sun. To cover more skin, look for rashguards, which often have long sleeves and high necklines. At Monica + Andy, our swimsuits are made with UPF 50+ material, so you can splash and play with confidence your little one's skin is protected.

The Importance of Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a non-negotiable item in your summer skincare arsenal–at every age. Stay vigilant against the sun's harmful effects by selecting a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum of UPF 30. For those with sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide can be gentler alternatives. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) maintains a list of the best baby and kid sunscreens that meet their strict criteria.

With sunscreen, proper application is also key: Apply a generous amount 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours, or more frequently for anyone hopping in the water.

Sun Hats and Accessories

Sun hats not only look adorable but also provide significant coverage for the face and neck. Look for wide-brimmed hats that offer shade and have UPF coverage.  Our adorable sun hats are UPF 50+ and come in sizes up through 8 years that fit comfortably with elastic stretch. The American Academy of Pediatricians (AAP) recommends wearing sunglasses with at least 99% UV protection. And, yes, there are sizes for kids and even babies! 

Staying Hydrated

Dehydration is a risk during scorching summer days. It's crucial to stay hydrated, especially if you're nursing or carrying your baby in hot weather. For new moms, drinking water helps with milk production and maintaining energy levels. Invest in a stylish reusable water bottle that you can easily carry with you as a constant reminder to stay hydrated.

Hydration is just as important for little ones. The AAP advises keeping babies younger than 6 months out of direct sunlight, but they may still need to nurse or bottle-feed more often if exposed to warmer temperatures. For babies, toddlers, and kids, make sure you bring along any milk or water they might need to restore fluids on the go!

The appearance of the summer sun is very welcome after darker days, but it's essential to enjoy it responsibly. By integrating these sun-safe practices and products into your routine, you'll be all set to make the most of the season without compromising on your family's well-being.

Here's to a summer filled with cherished memories for you and your family. 

Ready to dive in? Explore our Swim Shop for swimsuits, towels, cover-ups, hats and more!