Ask the Expert: Sun safety & sunscreen tips for babies & children

June 11, 2025
Applying sunscreen often, seeking shade and avoiding long periods outdoors can all help protect children in the sun and heat.

Protecting your baby or child from the sun is essential whether you're heading to the park or beach, running errands, or enjoying a summer day outdoors. Babies and children are especially vulnerable to the dangers of heat and sun exposure.

Even on cloudy days, their sensitive skin can burn easily. Sunburn at any age, including in childhood, increases the risk of skin cancer later in life. UV rays from the sun cause damage to DNA, ages skin, damages eyes, and ultimately increases the risk of skin cancer.

Dr. Miriam Oliver is a pediatrician and the head of the Department of Pediatrics at Penticton Regional Hospital. She's a mother of two young children and shared with us her tips for how you can protect your child or baby in the sun.

Stories@IH

Read our latest stories

3 Minute Read
Health & Wellness

Interior Health’s (IH) free community-based day program offers clients skills, tools and social connections to sustain a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

4 Minute Read
Community & Culture

Inspired by her community, and what quality of life can be, Marie began her career in health care to broaden her understanding of what well-being truly means.

4 Minute Read
Health & Wellness

A new set of tools, resources and training for emergency department staff that supports those at risk of suicide is expected to save lives.

5 Minute Read
Community & Culture, Health & Wellness

Summer BBQs are fun but keep in mind - warmer temperatures can turn your feast into a fast-track to food poisoning if you’re not careful. Learn how to avoid it!

6 Minute Read
Community & Culture

Recruitment Assistants team lead Courtney Ruddiman has a background in business management and joined Interior Health in 2020 as an administrative assistant.

4 Minute Read
Health & Wellness

Keep you and your loved ones safe with these tips to prevent drowning when enjoying water activities.

STAY CONNECTED

Receive news and alert posts, and Stories@IH blog posts, right to your inbox!

mail