The summer brings the children to the outdoors and the summer also brings the heat and sun. It's important to take precaution against the UV radiation.

It is estimated that children are exposed to the sun three times more than adults–and often without sun protection. According to the American Skin Cancer Foundation, 80% of a person’s lifetime exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation occurs before the age of 18.

This is compounded by the fact that a young child has more skin relative to his or her body mass, so the sunburn will cover more area and will be more serious. Properly protecting their skin during the first 18 years of life can reduce the risk of some types of skin cancer by 78%.

Sun protective clothing with UPF 50 blocks 98% of the UV radiation. The Ultraviolet Protection Factor (or “UPF”) rating system measures the UV protection provided by fabric. It is similar to the SPF rating system that we look for in sunscreens.

A UPF 50 garment only allows 1/50th of the UV radiation falling on the surface of the garment to pass through it. In other words, it blocks 49/50ths or 98% of the UV radiation.

Most children do not like sunscreen applied to their skin which leaves us finding alternate and unique ways to keep them protected and safe outdoors. Sun protection clothing is an easy and reliable form of UV protection and is becoming more and more popular.

So the next time you are shopping look for the UPF factor and let's help protect our children.