7 Genius Tricks for Getting Your Kids to Actually Wear Sunscreen

Ever feel like you’re wrestling an octopus when it’s time to slather sunscreen on your little ones? Trust me, I’ve been there! But after years of chasing my kiddos around with a bottle of SPF, I’ve finally cracked the code. Get ready for some game-changing tricks that’ll have your kids begging for sunscreen (okay, maybe not begging, but at least not running away screaming)!

1. Make It a Game

Okay, so here’s the deal: kids love anything that feels like play. So why not turn sunscreen application into a fun game? I started playing “connect the dots” with my youngest. I’d put little dots of sunscreen all over his arms and legs, and he’d giggle like crazy while connecting them. Before he knew it, he was covered!

For my older one, we play “sunscreen artist.” I’ll squeeze out a bit of sunscreen on her arm, and she gets to create a masterpiece before rubbing it in. Sometimes it’s a smiley face, other times it’s a sun (how fitting, right?). It’s hilarious to see what she comes up with, and she’s always excited to show off her “art” before it disappears.

Pro Tip: Keep a few toy stamps or stencils in your beach bag. Let your kids stamp or stencil designs with sunscreen on their skin, then rub it in. It’s like temporary tattoos, but with sun protection!

2. Let Them Choose Their Weapon

You know how kids suddenly become interested in vegetables when they get to pick them out at the farmer’s market? Same principle applies here. Next time you’re at the store, let your little ones choose their own sunscreen. There are so many fun options now – sprays, sticks, lotions with glitter, you name it.

My daughter went through a phase where she’d only use the sunscreen that came in a purple bottle (don’t ask me why, kids are weird). But hey, if it meant she was actually willing to wear it, I wasn’t complaining! And bonus: when they feel like they have a say in the process, they’re way more likely to cooperate.

Pro Tip: If you’re worried about them choosing something that’s not effective enough, pre-select a few good options and let them pick from those. That way, they still feel in control, but you know they’re getting proper protection.

3. Monkey See, Monkey Do

Here’s a little secret: kids are always watching us. So why not use that to our advantage? Make a big show of putting on your own sunscreen. Act like it’s the most amazing thing ever. Get excited about it!

I started doing a silly “sunscreen dance” while applying mine, complete with exaggerated movements and goofy facial expressions. My kids thought it was hilarious and wanted to join in. Now it’s become a family tradition before we head to the beach or pool. They even remind me if I forget!

Pro Tip: Create a family sunscreen anthem! Make up a catchy tune about putting on sunscreen and sing it together while applying. It’s dorky, but trust me, your kids will love it (and probably embarrass you by singing it in public).

4. Reward System for the Win

Look, I’m not above a little bribery when it comes to keeping my kids safe. We started a sticker chart for sunscreen application. Every time they put it on without a fuss, they get a sticker. After a certain number of stickers, they earn a small prize or a special outing.

It doesn’t have to be anything big – my son’s current obsession is collecting those little plastic animals you can get for a quarter at the grocery store. A few of those, and suddenly he’s Mr. Cooperative when it’s sunscreen time. Whatever works, right?

Pro Tip: Make the reward sun-related for extra motivation. Maybe it’s a new pair of sunglasses, a cool hat, or extra time at the pool. It reinforces the connection between sunscreen and fun in the sun!

5. Make It Part of the Routine

Kids thrive on routine, so why not make sunscreen application as normal as brushing teeth? We keep our sunscreen right next to the toothpaste in the bathroom. Every morning, it’s wash face, brush teeth, put on sunscreen. No questions asked.

It took a little while to establish the habit, but now it’s just part of our morning ritual. My kids don’t even think twice about it anymore. And on days when we’re rushing out the door and I forget? They actually remind me! (I know, I was shocked too.)

Pro Tip: Create a fun visual checklist for your kids’ morning routine, including sunscreen. You can use pictures for younger kids or let older ones check off items themselves. It gives them a sense of accomplishment and helps them remember.

6. Cool It Down

Okay, this one’s a game-changer, especially for those of you with sensory-sensitive kiddos. You know how sunscreen can feel all goopy and warm? Yeah, kids hate that. So here’s the trick: keep your sunscreen in the fridge!

I started doing this last summer, and it’s been amazing. The cool lotion feels so much nicer going on, especially on hot days. My kids actually look forward to it now because it’s so refreshing. Just make sure to label it clearly so your husband doesn’t accidentally put it on his sandwich (true story, don’t ask).

Pro Tip: For beach days, pack your sunscreen in a small cooler with some ice packs. Not only will it stay cool and feel great going on, but it’ll also last longer in the heat.

7. Give Them Some Control

This last one might seem a little counterintuitive, but hear me out. Sometimes, giving kids a bit of control can make all the difference. I let my kids decide where they want to start with the sunscreen – arms, legs, face, etc. It’s a small thing, but it makes them feel like they have a say in the process.

I also taught them how to apply it themselves (with supervision, of course). My daughter feels so grown-up when she gets to do her own arms and legs. Sure, I have to go back and touch up the spots she missed, but she’s learning and feels empowered. Win-win!

Pro Tip: Turn it into a teachable moment. Show them the UV index on your weather app and let them decide if it’s a “high sunscreen day” or a “moderate sunscreen day.” It helps them understand why sunscreen is important and gives them another way to be involved in the decision-making.

Sun-sational Success!

There you have it, mamas! Seven tricks that’ll turn sunscreen battles into a breeze. Remember, consistency is key. The more you make it a positive, fun experience, the less resistance you’ll face. Before you know it, your kids will be sunscreen pros!

And hey, don’t forget to pat yourself on the back. Keeping our little ones safe and protected is no small feat. You’re doing an awesome job! Now go out there and enjoy some fun in the sun – safely, of course!