Fun in the sun--with hats!

Long summer days and fun in the sun are here! And to ease your protective parental mind, GrowlGearStore.com is featuring four styles of hand-knit sun hats to prevent burns.
The ladybug and clownfish brim hats (UPF 50) and whale and chick hats are hand-crocheted with a texture like a soft straw hat. The hats are stretchy, flexible and breathable, made of 100% cotton.
It's great for kids to be outside, learning about nature, independence, activity and creativity, but it's as important as ever to educate them about the advantages and disadvantages of sun exposure.
The Mayo Clinic says it's thought that as little as 10 minutes daily of sun exposure can prevent Vitamin D deficiency; and since Vitamin D (www.sunsafetyforkids.org) protects against several diseases and helps the body absorb calcium (that's why it's added to milk), it's important to have. And since too much Vitamin D is toxic, consult your doctor about how to best get your child's daily dose. However, it's also important not to get too much sun.
I know you've heard it before.
The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that 80 percent of damaging skin exposure occurs in childhood. So what you do to teach and protect your child now has a direct impact on his or her chances to avoid cancer later.
Does she fight you tooth and nail when you try to smear the sunscreen on? Does he throw all his hats to the ground within minutes? Keep at it. When they arch their backs and cry when they don't want to go in the carseat, you still buckle them in. When they throw tantrums when they want to inspect the shiny, hot grill, you still pull them away. Make sunscreen, hats and protective clothing the same: non-negotiable protection for their health and safety. (And our hats at least make it fun!)
This year when I went to get new sunscreen, I found out Coppertone Water Babies Sunscreen started making an SPF 70+ version. An because it's a struggle to smear and rub in sunscreen on a squirmy toddlers tiny cheeks and nose, the new, clear, incarnations of the sunblock sticks are a godsend (also for lips!!). Coppertone Water Babies stick is SPF 30, which would be fine for everyday use, and the SPF 50 Banana Boat Baby Sunscreen Stick seems to be a good choice for days at the pool or beach.
All sunscreen products recommend consulting a doctor before use on babies under six months old.
Our sunhats ($24), however, can be used on kids no matter how small. Available in sizes 0-6 months, 6-12 months, 1-2T and the brim hats in 3-6. Click here to buy!

Enjoy the outdoors!