Safety and Fun in the Summer Sun

Sun Protection Essentials

Sun protection never goes out of style. While our bodies need sunlight for vitamin D, just a few minutes outside each day is enough for most people. Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to sunburn, lasting skin damage, and a higher risk of skin cancer. Because children’s skin is especially sensitive, extra protection is essential. Experts recommend choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30; spray or stick formulas can make it easier to reapply throughout the day. Dress children in lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses with UV protection. Make it a habit to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or after swimming and sweating. Encourage kids to play in shaded areas during peak sun hours, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Teaching children why sun safety matters can help them build healthy habits that last. For a helpful sun safety checklist from Children’s Health, click the above image. Click the links below for more tips.

Heat-Related Illnesses

Outdoor play is important for growing bodies and minds, but summer temperatures are getting hotter every year. In 2024, Virginia experienced record-breaking heat waves, and 2025 is only getting hotter. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can happen quickly, especially to young children. Schedule outdoor activities in the early morning or evening when it’s cooler, and take plenty of breaks in the shade. Make sure everyone has water bottles and takes frequent hydration breaks, even if they don’t feel thirsty. Dress kids in loose, breathable, light-colored clothing to help them stay cool. Watch for early signs of overheating, such as excessive sweating, tiredness, flushed skin, or dizziness, since children may not always recognize when they’re getting too hot. The CDC created a helpful parent handout on recognizing, treating, and preventing heat-related illnesses. Click the above image to check it out. For more tips on protecting children from extreme heat, visit the links below.

Whether you’re heading out for a summer road trip or just a quick drive across town, it’s important to make sure your child is safely buckled in for every ride. Children should always be correctly restrained in a car seat or booster seat that’s right for their age, height, and weight. For the latest guidelines, safety tips, and helpful videos, visit our Car Seat Safety page. Check out the resources below for advice on choosing the right seat and to find a local Certified Passenger Safety Technician who can check your installation.

Air Quality & Wildfire Smoke

Wildfire smoke and poor air quality have become a growing concern, even here in Virginia. Tiny particles from smoke and pollution can irritate the lungs and make breathing difficult, especially for children with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions. On smoky or hazy days, check your local air quality forecast using AirNow.gov or their app. When you see “code orange” (unhealthy for sensitive groups) or “code red” (unhealthy for everyone), keep windows and doors closed, limit outdoor playtime, and move activities indoors or opt for calmer play to reduce heavy breathing. Running an air purifier helps, and if you don’t have one, using your home’s HVAC system with a clean filter can also make a difference. A little awareness goes a long way in protecting your family’s lungs. For more on protecting children from poor air quality, click the link in the button.

Bug Bite Safety

Warm weather means more time outdoors – and more bugs! To prevent stings from bees and wasps, encourage kids to move calmly away from flying insects and avoid wearing scented lotions or brightly colored clothes. Mosquitoes are more active near standing water, so remind kids to steer clear or puddles, ponds, and birdbaths, and empty outdoor containers or toys that collect rainwater around your home. Remind children not to sit directly on the grass and avoid areas with tall weeds or brush, where bugs like to hide. Get in the habit of checking for ticks after outdoor play, especially behind the ears and under arms or clothing. Most bug bites are just an itchy nuisance, but be ready to act quickly if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling, hives, or trouble breathing. For a full bug bite and sting prevention guide, check out the CDC resource below.

Reading together is a summer tradition! Explore new worlds, celebrate diversity, and build strong readers. Here are some book lists and challenges to inspire your family this summer:

• Children’s Books About Independence Day
• 50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They’re 12
• Brightly’s Summer Reading Challenge

Choosing a Summer Camp

Summer camp is a tradition for some families and often a rite of passage for many children. It’s an opportunity for children to learn new skills, practice a sport, appreciate nature, take a break from the screen, and so much more. Children see many benefits from both day camps and residential camps. According to the American Camp Association, there are over 12,000 camps in the US – with so many options to choose from, deciding on the right camp can be overwhelming. Learn more about ACA accreditation and click the link below for a guide to preparing for camp, including how to choose the right camp for your child.

Request Child Care Referrals

It’s not too late to find a summer camp program for your child! Or, are you trying to get a head start on finding care for the upcoming school year? Child Care Aware of Virginia is here to help!

• Call us at 1-866-KIDS-TLC
• Fill out the form on our website
• Click the link below to use our self-search system!

Click here to learn more about choosing high-quality child care!