Summer Camp Sun Safety Tips

We frequently spend the majority of the day outside, where kids engage in exciting adventures and experience the beauty of nature.

Although our camp staff works hard to make sure that campers put on their sunscreen and avoid overheating, it helps to talk to your child about sun safety and send them with a few supplies.

These summer camp sun safety tips will make sure that the only reminder that your child has after a fun day outside is awesome memories.

Pack Sun-Protective Clothing

Sun-protective clothing is rated by its Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF). This rating simply lets you know how much of the sun’s UV rays are absorbed. 

In most cases, you will want to look for swimsuits and shirts with the highest UPF rating possible. For comparison, a plain t-shirt typically has a UPF rating of 7. You want something within the range of UPF 30 to 50+.

Provide Plenty of Sunscreen

Ideally, your child should bring sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30 or higher. You also want to look for a broad spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. 

Since our campers spend a ton of time in the water, you’ll also want to consider getting one that is water-resistant.

Once you get the sunscreen, talk to your child about how often they need to reapply it to avoid a sunburn after it wears off.

Remember to Hit the Odd Spots

One mistake that campers sometimes make is forgetting to apply sunscreen everywhere.

Remind your child to put sunscreen on their feet if they are wearing sandals or flip flops. They’ll also want to remember the tops of their ears, eyelids and even the parts of their scalp that are exposed when they style your hair.

Wear UV Sunglasses

The eyes are also vulnerable to harmful UV rays. Look for a cool pair of shades that also offers UV protection. They’ll keep the harsh glare from the sun out of your child’s eyes and protect them from damage.

For added protection, look for oversized and wraparound styles that provide more eye coverage that sunglasses with smaller lenses.

Bring an Amusing Camp Hat

We love hats at summer camp, and we encourage campers to bring whatever type of hat shows off their personality best.

Wide-brimmed hats provide extra facial coverage, but your child can also benefit from wearing a normal ball cap. Bucket hats are another great hat that work well for spending a day hiking and fishing in the sun.

Find Some Shade

Fortunately, we have tons of natural shade around camp that gives kids a place to cool off if they get too warm. We also have pavilions and other shaded structures that your camper can use to enjoy their favorite activities without being in full sun.

We all look out for each other at camp, and learning about sun safety prepares your child for a lifetime of enjoying the outdoors.

Always remind them to tell a staff member if they notice the early signs of a sunburn or if they run out of sunscreen, so that we can do our best to help them stay safe.

Canadian Adventure Camp is a North Ontario coed sleepover summer camp for kids located on a beautiful private island in the wilderness lakes region of Temagami. Founded in 1975, it provides acclaimed programs to children from around the world!