Almost 6 Month Old and Sun Exposure

I exposed my boys to the sun early on and didn't really worry about the amount of time they were in it...just had them in a hat and only put baby sunscreen on their arms, legs and face if they were swimming. Otherwise, if they were playing outdoors, they just had a hat, t-shirt and shorts with no sunscreen. Mornings are usually best as the sun is the hottest around 2pm-4pm. I don't think you really have anything to worry about unless your baby has a very fair complexion, which it doesn't sound like she does. She doesn't need to be naked with only a diaper to enjoy the benefits of the sun. No need to worry...just have fun playing with her outside and not be so strict with staying to the 30 min/week. My boys were outside playing for at least a couple of hours every day at 6 months with no problems. Have fun!

I was really worried about this about this time last year after I had my baby. If there is a way to search the archives you can read the responses I got. Many people were pretty relaxed about it. I wasn't though, the sun seemed so harsh on her skin. I am more relaxed now. I got a lot of "safe" sunscreen (California Baby) - a lot of sunscreens are very unsafe - you can read about it on the Environmental Working Group website. But I didn't use it much - I mostly tried to keep her covered with a light blanket, and out of the sun for too long. But it got easier as she got more rugged. I do think looking back on it, that you can get too nervous about it - especially if there is some blood in you that is not super-white white. But do what feels right to you, as you seem already cautious, try not to over-worry (they find more and more how good Vitamin D is for you). I know it's hard because we live in Texas where the sun is sooo strong. On Memorial Day last year we went to the beach and I did not leave the house with the baby after 8 am or before 6 pm. How's that for over-protective?!

SUNSCREEN, SUNSCREEN, SUNSCREEN - - full spectrum sunscreen.

Sunshine is great for all of us, just keep that skin protected.

She should be fine and remember, she does not need to be in direct sunlight, she can be outside in a slightly shaded area.. flip her over so she gets exposure on both sides... Get her a hat and EVERY time you go outside put it on her, so she will get used to it.. Being out side is great for your child!

If you ever do put sunscreen on a very small child, remember not to put it on their hands and lower arms, they rub their eyes and the sunscreen will get in their eyes.