I love the beach! The smell of the ocean, my feet in the sand, maybe a cold drink in my hand (iced coffee or frozen cocktail…Maybe both). But the sun can be super scary! No one likes a sunburn!
Sun protection is important for everyone. But it’s extra important for kids with neurotypical for a few reasons:
Sensory sensitivities: Kids with autism often have sensory sensitivities that can make them more uncomfortable in the sun or with certain textures, such as sunscreen. Sunscreen may feel sticky or greasy to some children, which can be distressing for those with sensory processing difficulties.
Dean complains the spray is always too cold and he squirms when putting on lotion like its poor torture. Please tell you can relate. Please.
They have trouble communicating: Children with autism often have difficulty expressing when they have discomfort or pain. They may not be able to verbalize, or even recognize when they are feeling too hot or experiencing sunburn.
Dean has a hard time recognizing pain until its too late. This happens in the bathtube too with hot water.
Predictability: Many children need predictability. Both of my kids HATE surprises and the unknown. Sunburn causes them both anxiety because its so unpredictable and out of the ordinary. When will it stop hurting? Why is it peeling?
This is especially tough for Avery. Even if its not that painful, the pain will cause her to spiral and shutdown.
Sleep disruption: Nuerodiverse kids tend to struggle at bedtime as it is. But factor in an uncomfortable sunburn and forget it! Now you have a tired, cranky kid in pain! That is not for them or for you!
Health considerations: A lot of the time children with autism may have other health conditions or medications that make them more sensitive to the sun or increase their risk of sunburn or heat-related illnesses. It’s so very important to take these factors into account and provide adequate sun protection to prevent potential health complication.
OK so now we know why it’s a problem. How do we fix it?
We prepare! As always, think about your own kid. What works for my kids may not work for yours. But here are a few tips:
Sun-Friendly Clothing: These long sleeve swim shirts are a lifesaver! No more red backs. No more streaky arms because he wouldn’t sit still when I applied it. A few less areas of his body I have to reapply. I love these!
Here are a few you can add to your beach bag:
Sun Hats: A wide-brimmed hat or even baseball cap to shield their face, neck, and ears. I have fine, light hair and my head tends to burn, so I get very anxious about covering heads!
Here’s a good option:
Or these:
Sunglasses: Not just any sunglasses but try to look for glasses that offer UV protection for true protection!
Check out this multipack.
Shade: Dean loves the beach but the heat can also be overstimulating! Having a tent or umbrella not only cools him off but gives him a nice sensory break. He sits in the shade a bit, relaxes, hydrates and goes back out! Often resorts provide some kind of shade, but if you aren’t going to one, here are a few:
This tent has great reviews and you the sides would give a nice sensory break.
Hydration: I mean- this goes without saying, right? Hydrate hydrate hydrate.
These are stainless steel, so they will stay cold. Leak proof so they won’t get all wet and sandy. And I love the colors!
Cooling Accessories: I know it sounds weird but if you kid is sensitive to heat, cooling towels or misting fans work wonders.
A nice cooling towel under the shade is sometimes needed. And anything to prevent heat related meltdown.
Teach Sun Awareness: I try to talk to my kids about the importance of sun safety and encourage them to seek shade or cover up when they feel too hot. Both of my kids need things repeated so I try to say it a lot! But while I love the sun, it is powerful and can be dangerous.
Take a break: If you are planning a long day at the beach, consider heading indoors for lunch in the AC. It can help your kids (and you) feel refreshed and ready to go back out!
A Certified Autism Travel Professional (CATP): Like me! I love helping my clients find what works for them! Want to schedule a chat? Click here! Or email me to get started!