Roofed playground equipment and small or sparse trees provide scattered or limited shade. Fabric shade canopies or tarps provide dense or scattered shade depending on the size of the holes in the weave of the fabric. The smaller holes of tightly woven fabric allow less UV light to pass through and provide better shade protection. Childcare programs can assess whether their facility provides adequate shade in areas that are accessible to children. Programs should strive to have enough shaded areas for all children to be able to safely play and have fun outdoors at any time of day.
Indirect sunlight can cause sunburn, too.
Many outdoor play surfaces such as sand, cement, water, and snow reflect much of the sun's UV rays. Sunlight can bounce off of reflective surfaces onto children sitting under an umbrella or tree, for example. Remember, up to 80 percent of the sun's UV rays can pass through clouds. Teach children how to identify and find good sources of shade. Encourage staff to keep infants and small children in the shade when outdoors.