Families all over are venturing outdoors this summer. Are you planning a beach vacation to sunny Maui soon?
As the sun becomes stronger and the days become longer, sun protection is an important consideration for your child’s health – especially while on a beach vacation. Here are three simple ways to provide summer sun protection for children of all ages, without opening a tube of sunscreen:
- Stay Indoors – During the peak hours when the sun is harshest – usually between 11am-2pm for the Hawaiian climate – try to keep your children indoors. This is the ultimate form of sun protection, offering the most successful blocking of harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Find a suitable activity that will keep kids entertained while inside – art projects, cooking, and reading are a few great choices for the condo. Alternatively, take a trip to the supermarket, aquarium, or road trip to the pools near Hana during these hours to avoid the sun, while still getting out of the condo to enjoy your vacation.
- UPF Clothing – Covering skin with clothing is an easy way to prevent sun burn. Clothing with a Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating of 50 or more is best. A UPF 50 rating means that at least 98% of ultraviolet radiation is blocked from reaching the skin. Most traditional clothing has a UPF of 30 or less, but there are now special sun protective fabrics that are a better choice for outdoor attire for everyone in the family.
- Hand-held Umbrellas – Extremely popular in Asia, umbrellas are starting to become more fashionable all over the world for sun protection. Carry an umbrella for rain or shine, using its shade to protect your family’s skin from UV rays when sunny and prevent getting wet when rainy. The shade from an umbrella also helps keep you and your family cool on hot days.
Sunscreen is also an option, but some families are concerned with the application of topical chemicals and allergens found in many brands. The above tips offer three easy ways to provide protection from the sun and reduce reliance on sunscreens while on your Maui vacation.
Contact us for more indoor Hawaiian activity ideas or for information about our Maui accommodations.
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