Cover Up While in the Sun

Dear Dr. Dave and Dr. Dee,

My daughter is very shy and keeps herself covered up at the beach. She won't take off her T-shirt when swimming, and wears a hat and sunglasses to "hide" when out of the water. How can I convince her that no one cares how she looks and to sun bathe like everyone else?

Signed,

Shy Daughter

Dear Shy Daughter,

Children often go through phases of shyness about their bodies. You didn't specify her age, but when she is older, you may wish she were more modest about her style of dress.

Given the dangers of sun exposure, especially to children, it's actually a good thing that your daughter likes to be covered up.

Besides wearing a shirt, hat, and sunglasses while out in the sun, it's also very important to wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, preferably 30.