7 Steps To Make Putting Sunscreen On A Toddler Less Of A Nightmare
Summertime fun in the sun isn’t always as “fun” as everyone makes it out to be. At least the prep work to prepare for the sun’s rays isn’t. Especially if you have a small child.
Toddlers much prefer to wiggle than to be still, so lathering them up with sunscreen can be easier said than done. I mean, you probably have a hard enough time making sure you’re covered and protected from the sun, much less getting someone else ready too, am I right?
Despite the struggle, it is well worth it to protect your baby’s skin from the sun. These seven tips will (hopefully) help make the process of applying sunblock much easier on you and your little one. So, let’s see how this whole SPFing a toddler thing is done, shall we?
1. Try To Get Your Child To Be Still
First and foremost, you have to try and get your child to be still for as long as possible. Tempt them with treats or their favorite TV show and then act quickly!!
2. Make It A Ritual
If you establish early on that a day at the park or the beach means sunscreen, at least they’ll be expecting it. It doesn’t mean they’ll be happy about it, but at least maybe they’ll be a bit more cooperative.
3. Use Hypo-Allergenic Sunscreen
Using a hypo-allergenic, broad spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF value will ensure that your kid’s getting the best protection possible without irritating the skin.
4. Opt For Spray Lotion
A spray lotion seems to be the fastest and best method for getting even coverage. Spray lotion on your child and rub as fast as possible (before they start to get fussy). Spray the lotion on your hands before rubbing it on their faces.
5. Apply Before They’re Dressed
If you apply sunscreen before dressing your kiddo, you’ll ensure that every inch of them is covered and ready to be in the sun.
6. Try The Car Seat Method
If all else fails, apply sunscreen once your child is strapped into the car seat. They may not be happy about it, but at least there’s nowhere for them to go. Finally, you’ve trapped them into being still long enough to get the lotion on them!
7. Gear Yourself Up To Do It All Over Again
Once that’s done, start mentally preparing to do this process all over again in about two hours. When it comes to sunscreen, lather and repeat is the best method.
[h/t: Huffington Post]