Babies and Sun: Not a Great Mix

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Bob Hallinan

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            Summertime means outdoor time for the family, but that’s not always the best for the youngest members. Dr. Steve Lauer, a pediatrician at The University of Kansas Hospital, says parents who like to take their babies on outings to the park or the zoo need to remember they can’t handle the heat and sun the same as adults.

            In the video, Dr. Lauer explains why being out in very hot weather can be risky for babies, especially those under six months old. He also tells how to know if your baby has become overheated, since they can’t sweat like adults, plus what the right amount of sun exposure is for a baby. Dr. Lauer also talks about sunscreen, the right ages and how much to use for a child, and why it can actually be harmful for a newborn.