Sun Safety Activity

This activity supports Scouting goals. It helps Scouts learn to take care of themselves. It also teaches them to be prepared. These are key parts of the program. When Scouts understand sun safety, they can enjoy the outdoors with fewer risks.

You can use this activity as part of a health lesson or before a sunny outing. It works well at the start of summer. It also helps remind Scouts of habits they may forget. The simple format makes it easy to repeat each year.

People have not always understood sun safety. Years ago, many thought sunburn was just part of being outside. Sunscreen was not widely used. Hats and long sleeves were more common for work, but not always for fun.

Over time, people learned more about how the sun affects skin. Doctors began to warn about long-term damage. This led to better habits. Sunscreen became common. Sunglasses and hats became part of outdoor gear.

Scouting has always focused on being prepared. That includes knowing how to handle weather. Sun safety fits right in with that idea. It is just another way Scouts learn to care for themselves outdoors.

Today, this activity helps pass that knowledge along. It keeps things simple. It also makes the lesson easier to remember. When Scouts draw the ideas, they tend to stick.

As a leader, you want Scouts to build good habits. This activity helps with that. It shows them simple steps they can follow every time they go outside. These habits can last a lifetime.

Scouts learn that protection starts before they go out. They see that sunscreen is not an afterthought. They begin to understand timing. Putting it on early and reapplying matters.

They also learn to think about clothing. Many Scouts do not think about long sleeves or hats. This activity helps them see how these items protect their skin. It makes the idea clear and easy.

You will also notice that Scouts begin to remind each other. One Scout may mention sunscreen. Another may point out the need for shade. This builds teamwork and shared responsibility.

This activity also helps with awareness. Scouts start to notice the time of day. They learn that midday sun is stronger. This helps them make better choices during outdoor events.

Most of all, it builds confidence. Scouts feel more prepared. They know what to do. That helps them enjoy outdoor activities without worry.

Materials

• Dry erase board and markers or poster board and markers

Instructions

1. Start by talking about sun safety tips with your group. Keep it short and clear.
   • Use a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher
   • Put the sunscreen on 30 minutes before you go out In the sun
   • Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours
   • If you go swimming, reapply the sunscreen after you get out, even if it is waterproof
   • Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes
   • A wide brimmed hat, long sleeved shirt, and long pants will also help protect your skin
   • Seek the shade, especially between 10AM and 3PM
   • Wear lip balm which provides sun protection
2. Draw a simple person on the board. A stick figure works fine.
3. Ask Scouts to take turns coming up to the board.
4. Each Scout adds something that helps protect from the sun.
5. If a Scout is unsure, let the group suggest ideas.
6. Continue until the person is fully “sun safe.”
7. Review all the items together at the end.

Notes And Variations

• Let younger Scouts work in pairs if they need help
• Have older Scouts explain why each item helps
• Take a photo of the finished drawing to share with families
• Do this activity before a campout or outdoor event
• Remind Scouts not to stare at the sun during the activity
• Encourage real use of sunscreen during future outings

Click here for a printable copy of the directions for the sun safety activity

What age group is this activity best for?

This works well for all age groups. Younger Scouts enjoy drawing simple items. Older Scouts can add more details and explain their ideas. You can adjust the discussion based on their age.

How long does this activity take?

It usually takes about 10 to 20 minutes. You can make it shorter or longer if needed. Keep it simple so Scouts stay focused.

Do I need special supplies?

No. You only need a board and markers. A poster board works if you do not have a dry erase board. Keep it easy so you can run it anywhere.

What if Scouts run out of ideas?

You can help by giving hints. Other Scouts can also suggest ideas. This helps everyone stay involved and learn together.

Can I do this outside?

Yes. This is a good activity to do outside. Just make sure everyone can see the board. You can even point out real examples like shade or hats.

How do I keep Scouts engaged?

Let everyone have a turn. Keep the pace moving. Ask simple questions as they draw. This helps keep their attention.

Can I connect this to other activities?

Yes. Use it before a hike, campout, or outdoor game. It works well as a quick reminder before going outside.

What should I do after the activity?

Review the drawing with the group. Talk about when they will use these tips. Encourage them to practice these habits at home and during outings.

Is this activity good for teaching safety?

Yes. It helps Scouts learn simple safety steps. It also helps them remember what to do. The drawing makes the lesson stick.

This activity helps Scouts learn how to stay safe in the sun. It uses a simple drawing to teach key ideas. Scouts take turns adding items that protect a person from the sun. This keeps everyone involved and thinking.

The activity is easy to run. It does not need much time or many supplies. A board and a marker are enough. Leaders can use it at meetings, before outings, or during summer programs.

Scouts learn by doing. When they draw items like hats or sunscreen, they remember them better. The group setting also helps. Scouts hear ideas from others and build on them.

This activity also builds good habits. Scouts begin to think about sun safety before going outside. They learn to plan ahead. This helps them stay safe during hikes, camps, and other outdoor events.