6 Summer Safety Habits to Teach Your Preschooler (Before the Next Sunny Day)
Summer with preschoolers is full of magic—popsicles on the porch, sidewalk chalk masterpieces, sprinkler dances in the yard. But with all that sunshine and freedom comes a new set of responsibilities for the grown-ups.
Because here’s the truth: little bodies overheat faster. Their skin burns more easily. And they don’t always recognize when it’s time to rest, hydrate, or head for the shade.
As caregivers and educators, it’s our job to protect their play—without taking the play out of it.
At The Buzz, we’re all about giving families and teachers the tools to keep kids safe and empowered. So this summer, let’s go beyond just slathering on sunscreen. Let’s teach our preschoolers what it means to care for their bodies in the sun, so they can keep doing what they do best—exploring, laughing, and making the most of these long, beautiful days.
Teach It, Model It, Live It: Sun Safety Tips That Stick
When it comes to teaching preschoolers about summer safety, the goal isn’t to make them worry—it’s to give them tools. We want them to understand that they deserve care, even while they’re having fun in the sun.
Here’s how to make sun safety part of your everyday rhythm:
🧴 Make Sunscreen a Habit, Not a Hassle
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, children can get sunburned in just 15 minutes. But putting on sunscreen doesn’t have to be a battle—turn it into a game! Let them draw a silly shape on their arm before rubbing it in, or use a timer and call it the “sunshine countdown.”
☀️ Shade Is Your Friend
Plan outside time before 10am or after 4pm when UV rays are less intense. Set up a picnic blanket under a tree or build a DIY “sun tent” with a sheet and chairs. Kids love a cozy nook, and you’ll love knowing they’re staying protected.
💦 Hydration = Superpower
Young kids are at greater risk of heat exhaustion because they don’t sweat the same way adults do. Make hydration part of the fun:
Give them a special water bottle and let them personalize it with stickers.
Create a “sip break” dance.
Let them help “water their body” like they do with plants!
🧢 Dressing for the Weather (and the Message)
Teach kids that hats, sunglasses, and lightweight long sleeves aren’t just cool—they help protect their skin and eyes. Invite them to help choose their “sun-safe outfit” each morning. Bonus points for superhero hats and shades.
🎵 Use Songs and Stories to Reinforce Safety
Preschoolers remember what they feel—and what they hear over and over. Try a little jingle like:
"Sunscreen, hat, and water too—safe in the sun is what we do!"
Or read books about summer adventures that include safe play.
👣 Let Them Practice with Purpose
Turn safety into a preschooler-powered routine. Let them apply their own sunscreen (with supervision), remind the group it’s time for a water break, or be the “shade spot picker” during outdoor play. Giving them a role makes them feel capable—and it sticks.
Summer Safety Starts With You
When we take the time to teach preschoolers why safety matters, we’re giving them lifelong tools. Tools to listen to their bodies. To make choices. To speak up.
And that’s what summer should be about: confidence, freedom, and memory-making. All rooted in care.
So whether you're packing up for the park, setting up the sprinkler in your backyard, or walking to preschool on a sunny morning—you’ve got this. And so do they.
Want more simple, joyful ways to make this summer safe and special?
Grab our free Magical Moments Calendar—a full month of easy, memory-making activities designed for busy families and educators like you.
Because connection and confidence grow best in everyday moments that feel magical.
Free Resource
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Don't forget to download our FREE My Water Safety Book made by Peake Academy Preschool At Home, a printable to color, cut, and talk about water safety together!
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