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Parenting

10 must-have products to protect your kids from the sun

Sunscreen isn't the only option.

Kids wearing Babiators glasses and UVSkinz towel Credit: Babiators / UVSkinz

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Summer is officially here, which means families all around the country will be clocking more time out in the sun. Thankfully, you longer have to rely on just sunscreen to keep your little ones safe from the damage of harmful UV rays. From sunglasses to rash guards, the following items promise protection no matter where you go.

1. A sunscreen that’s gentle on the skin

Coppertone Pure & Simple Sunscreen Lotion
Credit: Coppertone / GettyImages / DaniloAndjus

This sunscreen brings the protection without dyes, fragrances, and other potential irritants.

With so many hard-to-pronounce ingredients in sunscreen these days, it can be hard figuring out which one is best for your child and their skin. Coppertone’s Pure & Simple Sunscreen, which is formulated with naturally-sourced zinc oxide and natural botanicals, offers a hypoallergenic option for children with sensitive skin. The water-resistant sunscreen delivers broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays, but without the use of parabens, phthalates, fragrances, dyes, and alcohol, leaving sensitive skin happy and protected.

Get Coppertone Pure & Simple Sunscreen Lotion at Target for $9.99

2. Stickers that keep your sunscreen in check

SPOTMYUV UV detection stickers
Credit: SPOTMYUV

These UV detection stickers turn purple when it's time to reapply sunscreen.

When it comes to sunscreen application, one of the biggest quandaries can be knowing when it’s time to reapply. Now thanks to SPOTMYUV Detection Stickers, you no longer have to guess. The purple stickers, which are water- and sweat-resistant, are worn on the body and turn clear when you apply sunscreen. As the day goes on, the stickers eventually turn back to purple to let you know it’s time to reapply. Stickers can be re-used for up to 12 hours, or a total of six sunscreen applications.

Get SPOTMYUV Detection Stickers at Target for $9.99

3. A cool pair of shades to block rays

Babiators Navigator UV Sunglasses
Credit: Babiators

These sunglasses are perfect for tiny faces.

Up your child’s cool factor, while also protecting their eyes from the glare of the sun, with Babiators Navigator UV Sunglasses. The sunglasses, which feature UV400, shatter-resistant lenses, offer 100% UVA and UVB protection. Even better? You don’t have to worry about your child damaging them after only one use. Made from flexible rubber, the frames are designed to bend and twist without breaking.

Get Babiators Navigator UV Sunglasses on Amazon for $23

4. A fun cap for an extra layer of protection

Coolibar Kid’s Wave Rider Sports Cap UPF 50+
Credit: Coolibar

This chlorine- and water-resistant hat features UPF 50+ protection.

Looking for an easy way to add an extra layer of sun protection? Try a hat. The Kid’s Wave Rider Sports Cap by Coolibar, which features UPF 50+ protection, is made from a special Aqua Juno fabric that is chlorine- and saltwater-resistant—perfect for all those outdoor water activities you have planned this summer. The cap comes in basic colors, as well as cute prints like pink cheetah and navy nautical camo.

Get Coolibar Kid’s Wave Rider Sports Cap UPF 50+ on Amazon for $26

5. The perfect shoe for sand and water

Tuga Kid’s Water Shoes UPF 50+
Credit: Tuga

These protective shoes are light enough to wear in the water.

Designed for use on land and in the water, Tuga water shoes are a great way to keep your child’s feet protected during the summer season. Made with a special UPF 50+ fabric, the shoes block out sun damage, while still remaining breathable and light on the feet. The shoes can also help to provide protection from hot sand and rocks, which make them perfect for a day at the beach or waterpark.

Get Tuga Kid’s Water Shoes UPF 50+ on Amazon for $19.99

6. UV protection for sensory-sensitive children

Hanna Andersson sunblock rash guard
Credit: Hanna Andersson

This rash guard protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

For parents of children with sensory issues, applying sunscreen can present quite the challenge. To minimize stress for both you and your little one, opt for a rash guard (like this one from Hanna Andersson) instead. Available in a variety of fun, bright prints, the Sunblock Rash Guard is made to be soft on sensitive skin, while helping to provide much-needed coverage to the upper body against UVA and UVB rays. The swim knit also dries quickly once out of the water, which could be beneficial to sensory sensitive children averse to wet clothing.

Get the Sunblock Rash Guard at Hanna Andersson for $25.20

7. A pool float that shields from the sun

SwimWays Baby Spring Float Sun Canopy
Credit: SwimWays

This pool float's canopy shields little ones from the sun while they're swimming.

Sun protection is not limited to just clothing and sunscreen, even pool floats can offer your child some shade. Designed for babies 9-24 months, Swimways’ Baby Spring Float Sun Canopy comes with a detachable mesh canopy with UPF 50+ protection to help block out damaging rays. The lightweight, packable float also features child safety valves, dual air chambers, and a patented inner spring for stability to help your child (and you) feel safe and secure while enjoying the pool.

Get the Swimways Baby Spring Float Sun Canopy on Amazon for $26.49

8. A towel designed to dry and protect

UVSkinz Kids Hooded Beach Towel
Credit: UVSkinz

This hooded beach towel is a cozy way to beat the heat.

Proof that not all beach towels are created equal, the Luv Bug hooded towel offers certified UPF 50+ protection to keep your child safe as they dry off after a day of fun in the sun. The towel, which is available in multiple sea-themed patterns, is made from soft, absorbent terry cloth and features an oversized hood and pockets. It’s also chlorine- and salt water-resistant, which makes it the perfect accessory for both the pool and the beach.

Get the Love Bug Hooded Towel on Amazon for $24.95

9. Swimwear that’s safe and stylish

Mott50 Mini Major Boys Boardshort in Avocado
Credit: Mott50

These boardshorts carry UPF 50+ protection.

When it comes to sun protective apparel, Mott50 knows how to combine style with safety. The Minneapolis-based brand specializes in making UPF 50+ swimwear items (like the Mini Major Boys Boardshort) for the whole family. With matching options for men, women, and children, you can play twinsies with your little one all summer long in cool, funky prints like avocados, koi fish, and cactus.

Get the Mott50 Mini Major Boys Boardshort at Maisonnette for $48

10. A car shade that’s with you on the go

Munchkin Brica Magnetic Stretch to Fit Sun Shade
Credit: Brica

This sun screen is still transparent enough to see through.

Whether running errands or going on a quick weekend getaway, make sure your little one stays protected from the harmful glare of the sun with the Munchkin Magnetic Stretch to Fit Sun Shade. Designed to stretch and fit most car windows, this mesh shade secures safely to the inside of your car door frame with magnetic tabs, allowing you to roll the window down even when it’s installed. While the shade shields your child from UV rays, it won’t obstruct their view so they can still enjoy the sites as you drive to your destination.

Get the Munchkin Brica Magnetic Stretch to Fit Sun Shade at Target for $16.99

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