As pediatricians, we love seeing kids get outside, explore, and stay active. But with every new season, different health and safety questions always pop up. This summer, CPCMG is focusing on the “Three S’s” that parents need to watch out for: Sun, Screens, and Speed.

1. Sun: Smart Protection for Young Skin
We all want our kids to get outside and get that natural Vitamin D but protecting young skin from ultraviolet (UV) damage is a long-term investment in their health. Research shows that sunburns in childhood can significantly increase the risk of skin cancer later in life.
• The SPF Standard: Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Look for physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are gentler on the skin.
• The Reapply Rule: Sunscreen wears off. You must reapply every two hours, and immediately after swimming or sweating, even if it’s “waterproof.”
• The Under-6-Months Rule: Babies under six months old should skip sunscreen. Instead, keep them in the shade, use hats, and stick to lightweight, breathable clothing.

Learn more here.

2. Screens: Quality Over “Quiet Time”
Screens are an undeniable part of daily life but managing them doesn’t have to be a constant battlefield. The key is establishing healthy boundaries that protect your child’s sleep, brain development, and physical activity.
• Age Limits: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends avoiding digital media for children under 18 to 24 months. For kids ages 2 to 5, limit non-educational screen time to about 1 hour per day. For kids ages 6 and up, set consistent and personalized limits on time and media types.
• The Bedroom Ban: Keep screens out of bedrooms entirely. The blue light emitted by phones and tablets suppresses melatonin (the sleep hormone), interfering with quality sleep that children of all ages need to grow and develop.
• Tech-Free Time: Establish sacred screen-free times, like family dinners and the 60 minutes right before bed.

Learn more here.

3. Speed: The New Frontier of E-Bike Safety
Electric bikes (e-bikes) have surged in popularity, but they operate much differently than traditional bicycles. Because they are heavy and can easily reach speeds of 20 mph or more, there has been a dramatic rise in severe pediatric orthopedic injuries and concussions in local emergency rooms. If your child rides one, take safety just as seriously as if they were driving a car:

• Age Matters: Children under 16 lack the motor skills, peripheral vision, and rapid reaction times required to safely control a motorized vehicle at high speeds. In California, there are no age restrictions on Class 1 and 2 e-bikes but riders must be at least 16 to operate a Class 3 e-bike.
Be sure to check with your city for specific rules and regulations. For example, the City of San Diego has imposed an age restriction of 12 years for class 1 and 2 e-bikes.
• Upgrade the Helmet: A standard bicycle helmet is not engineered to withstand impacts at 20+ mph. Look for helmets explicitly rated for e-bike or moped speeds. All Class 3 riders must wear helmets. All riders under 18 must wear a helmet on any type of bike, motorized or not.
• Passenger Dangers: Never allow children to ride double on a bike built for one. The added weight shifts the center of gravity, making crashes far more likely.

Learn more here.