Traveling Without Your Kids: Tips to Make it Easier for Everyone!

Whether you’re a working parent who has to take a business trip or just going on a vacation without your children, being away from them can be tough! Thankfully, there are things you can do to prepare for yourself and your children to help make it easier on everyone.

Last week, I had an opportunity to attend a retreat with my Family & Consumer Science colleagues that involved being away from my two children for two nights. As they get a little older, (5 and 3 years old) it is a little easier for me to leave them with dad for a few nights, but can be more difficult for them. When they were babies they didn’t quite understand if I was gone for a night or two, but now that they are getting older they are more aware of time and like to have our familiar routine that involves both mom and dad. Thanks to help from my husband and other family members, my kids did just fine without me (though I was missing them like crazy!)

Mom kissing child on forehead

Here are some things I did to prepare us all for this trip that you can try too:

  • Tell them the plan: Kids thrive on predictability in their routine, it helps them feel more secure. Start by telling them how their routine may look different while you’re gone. Visually show them on a calendar that you’ll be leaving on this day and returning on this day. Explain what the night time routine might look like. For us, I said, “Daddy will be putting you to bed for two nights.”
  • Special item: Pick a stuffed animal they already have, a t-shirt, photo, or something that reminds them of you and tell them when you’re gone, they can squeeze that item when they’re missing you.
  • Make a paper chain countdown: My kids loved this while I was gone! Make a paper chain by cutting strips of paper and taping or stapling them together for the amount of days you’ll be gone. Write a note on each strip of paper that they can read (or a caregiver can read to them) while you are away.
  • Make time to check-in: If your trip allows, make time to check in with your kids through pictures, phone calls, facetime, etc. For younger children, this could make them more upset as they may now be more aware that you’re gone. Use your best judgement on how your children will respond and if they would benefit from a video check in.
  • Reconnect when you get home: Make special time to reconnect when you return from traveling. Try to make 1 on 1 time with your kids if possible! Even if it is just ten minutes a day, there are numerous benefits to spending quality 1 on 1 time with your child.

Being away from our children can be a challenge for both parents and kids even when it’s something we want to do! As a parent, I am still learning every day about work-life balance and how to achieve my goals in my career while not missing time with my kids. Preparing ourselves can be just as important as preparing our kids for when we travel. The more prepared we all are, the easier it will be for everyone when the next trip comes up!

Written By: Erin Ruggiero, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension Medina County, ruggiero.46@osu.edu

Reviewed by: Shannon Carter, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension Fairfield County, carter.413@osu.edu

References:

Peaceful Parent Institute: https://www.peacefulparent.com/quality-one-on-one-time-with-your-child-fills-their-emotional-cup/

https://www.pbs.org/parents/thrive/11-tips-to-prepare-your-kids-for-when-youre-traveling-without-them

https://www.zerotothrive.org/routines-for-kids/

Where Hope Blooms

purple crocus with the quote: "where flowers bloom, so does hope." by Lady Bird Johnson

One of the earliest and most-welcomed signs of spring are the flowers who have persevered through the winter. As colder temperatures subside and give way to spring, crocuses respond by pushing new shoots up through the earth and opening their cheery blossoms. A bright purple crocus bloom against a backdrop of snow or last year’s fallen leaves is a picture of resilience in the face of difficulty. This can remind us that there is always potential for change and growth, even during difficult times. In order to bring about positive change in our culture, or ourselves, we begin with hope.

Fostering hope has been shown in various research studies to help decrease symptoms of depression and improve mental health, self-esteem and the ability to function with a chronic illness. In a study of older adults, hope was linked to better physical and mental health and health behavior outcomes.

To better understand what hope is, we can look at the science behind it. Researcher Chan Hellman from the University of Oklahoma’s Hope Research Center has explored the components of hope and found 3 distinct ingredients: goals, pathway and agency. Goals are the thing we are striving for and become the cornerstone of hope. Pathway is the ability to identify routes toward goals and to find new pathways (problem solve) around obstacles, if necessary. Agency (willpower) is the ability to sustain motivation to move along these pathways. Hellman asserts: “Hope is the belief that your future will be better than today and you have the power to make it so.” No matter the difficulties we may face, hope is accessible to each and every one of us. Unlike optimism, which is simply the expectation of a better future, hope is action-oriented and a skill that can be learned.

To foster hope in your life, you may need to re-frame your thinking and form new habits. Hope experts recommend these tips:

  • Break goals into smaller chunks so they are more manageable.
  • Stay connected. Hope is a social gift. It is not something that happens in isolation within us. It happens in relationships with each other. We should be more intentional in our social connections. Our connectedness with others or with something greater than ourselves is one of single best predictors of hope.
  • Celebrate small successes. It is important to acknowledge and celebrate what you have accomplished to boost your willpower to reach the next small goal.

At the heart of change is our ability to understand the way things are right now in our lives… and that we can begin to imagine the way things could be. This is where hope is born. So, when you see early spring flowers, let them remind you to hold on to hope and believe that things will get better, and the courage to take some action to bring about change.

Writer: Shannon Carter, Extension Educator, Family & Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Fairfield County, carter.413@osu.edu

Reviewer: Erin Ruggiero, Extension Educator, Family & Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Medina County, ruggiero.46@osu.edu

Sources:

Abramson, A. (2024). Hope as the antidote. Monitor on Psychology, Vol. 55 No. 1. American Psychological Association. Retrieved from : https://www.apa.org/monitor/2024/01/trends-hope-greater-meaning-life#:~:text=Along%20with%20improving%20mental%20health,28%2C%202020.

Long K. N., Kim E. S., Chen Y., Wilson M. F., Worthington E., Jr, VanderWeele T. J. (2020). The role of hope in subsequent health and well-being for older adults: an outcome-wide longitudinal approach. Global Epidemiology. 2, 100018. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gloepi.2020.100018  

Steffen, L.E., Cheavens, J.S., Vowles, K.E. et al. Hope-related goal cognitions and daily experiences of fatigue, pain, and functional concern among lung cancer patients. Supportive Care Cancer 28, 827–835 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-019-04878-y

Beyond Academics: Kindergarten Ready

My daughter has her Kindergarten screening coming up in a few weeks. She is very excited to be going to the “big kid school” next year, but I know that this will be a big transition for her. As we prepare for that transition, we have learned that being kindergarten ready goes beyond the academic skills. As parents or caregivers, we can help with the successful transition to kindergarten by:

Establishing strong routines: Kids function better when they have a routine, as they know what to expect and what comes next. When a child enters kindergarten, they will have a routine for the school day. Along these lines, it is important that sleep and night routines are established so that kids get enough sleep for a successful day. Once kindergarten starts, establishing a solid morning routine so that everyone is able to have breakfast and get to school on time is essential.

Helping to develop self-help skills: These are skills that can foster independence and can be part of a routine. Some examples of self-help skills are putting on a coat and zipping it, putting on shoes, and using the bathroom independently. These skills can also help foster independence and responsibility. At dinner time, have your child take the responsibility of setting the table, having ownership and pride in a job well done can help boost his or her confidence.

Learning cooperative play: Being able to play with peers is an essential skill when starting school. Taking turns and sharing all play a big part in this. As a parent or caregiver, you can help your child in learning cooperative play by playing turn- taking games, games that make someone wait until it’s their turn to roll the dice or spin the wheel.

children learning cooperative play

Setting the expectations: When anyone goes somewhere or does something new it can be scary. As much as possible, prepare your kindergartener for what will happen. Attend the open house or conference to meet the teacher. Help pick out school supplies together. Take a tour of the school. Anything you can do to help the situation be less intimidating will have a better result for your child.

With any life transition there is bound to be a learning curve, however with some preparation before the first day at the “big kid school” we hope to make the transition as smooth as possible and have a great year!

Written by: Katie Schlagheck, Extension Educator Family and Consumer Sciences, Ottawa & Sandusky Counties
Reviewed by: Erin Ruggiero, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Medina County

Why Run, When You Can Walk?

I want to move my body more, but do I have to run?

Some of us hear the word cardio and we immediately think, no way, I’m not a runner! Or the popular “the only time you’ll see me running is if something is chasing me!”

Well, I am here to share the good news! YOU DON’T HAVE TO RUN! In fact, your chiropractor might thank you for choosing not to run. Many of us have been trained to believe that we need to run, jump, or jog in order for it to count as cardio . However, walking is just as effective and in many ways better for us. BONUS, it is free! Cardio or exercise does not need to be complicated, we can move our bodies and keep things low impact and still experience health benefits. According to the Mayo Clinic regularly practicing brisk walking can help you:

  • Maintain a healthy weight or lose body fat
  • Prevent or manage various conditions, including heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, cancer, and type 2 diabetes
  • Improve cardiovascular fitness
  • Improve muscle endurance
  • Increase energy levels
  • Improve mood, cognition, memory, and sleep
  • Improve your balance and coordination
  • Strengthen immune health
  • Reduce stress and tension
walking the path

So how fast should you walk? Well according to Berkeley strolling, striding, and brisk walking all look different especially based on your own goals and health status. Strolling is a slower paced walk, averaging 1 mile per 30 minutes or more. Striding is about 1 mile per 20 minutes. A brisk walk is faster paced averaging 1 mile per 17 minutes or less. The recommendation is a brisk walk 5 or more days per week for at least 30 minutes. Berkeley has a great easy to read fact sheet about walking, heart rate, speed, and posture to view click here .

When starting any exercise routine, it is always a good idea to first check with your doctor. After checking with you doctor, you can begin to explore walking routines and spaces. Ohio State Wexner Medical Center has a great beginner 8-week walking resource that can be found here. The best part about walking is it can be done alone, with a partner, or friends. You can purchase a treadmill or decide to make your way outside.

If you choose to walk outside then be prepared to not only receive the benefits of walking but also experience the beauty of getting outside. According to National Park Service just 20 minutes in nature improves concentration and cognitive function. Walking outdoors may increase your happiness, just 5 minutes of walking in nature has been shown to improve mood, self-esteem, and relaxation. While frequent exposure to nature could improve anxiety and depression.

A great place to start when seeking new places to walk is by checking out your local park district or website for a map of all your local trails. Many parks keep their website updated with trail closures and level of difficulty. If you are in Ohio, you can visit here to see an overview of Ohio state parks that include more than just walking but biking, hiking, horseback riding, and motorized trails. Exploring your local parks could not only improve your health but, help you to get to know your community!

Author: Holly Bandy, Extension Educator Family and Consumer Sciences, Stark County

Reviewed by: Katie Schlagheck, Extension Educator Family and Consumer Sciences, Ottawa & Sandusky Counties

Staff, M. C. (2024, March 12). Walk your way to fitness. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/walking/art-20046261

Go Beyond the Table this National Nutrition Month

2024 National Nutrition Month logo

March is National Nutrition Month! This annual campaign from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics brings our attention to the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. This year, the theme for National Nutrition Month is Beyond the Table. This theme addresses the farm-to-fork aspect of nutrition while acknowledging that we don’t always eat at home, around a table. No matter where you eat – at home, work, or school, at an event or social gathering, or on-the-go – there are ways to make healthy choices that fit your budget, preferences, and lifestyle.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has compiled A Month of Tips for Eating Healthy on the Run for National Nutrition Month. In addition to this tip sheet, you can visit the National Nutrition Month resource page to find tips for smart snacking, plant-based eating, reducing food waste, planning meals, and eating healthy on a budget. For some nutrition-themed fun, you can also download National Nutrition month activity sheets including a coloring page and word search.

Some additional ideas for celebrating National Nutrition Month include:

  1. Trying a new fruit or vegetable each week.
  2. Giving family members a role in meal planning and letting them pick out different recipes to try.
  3. Planning to eat more meals together as a family.
  4. Exploring food recovery options in your community to reduce food waste.
  5. If you watch TV, taking breaks during commercials to be physically active.
  6. Practicing mindful eating by limiting screentime during mealtime.
  7. Trying more meatless meals. Beans, peas, and lentils are versatile plant-based protein sources that work in a variety of dishes.
  8. Letting everyone help with food preparation — a skill for people of all ages. If you have kids, there are age-appropriate tasks they may enjoy learning how to do.
  9. Bringing out the flavors of food by trying new herbs, spices, or citrus fruits like lemon or lime to season dishes.

What will you do to celebrate National Nutrition Month? Let us know by leaving a comment below!

Written by Jenny Lobb, MPH, RDN, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, OSU Extension Franklin County

Reviewed by Alexus Masterson, MPH, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, OSU Extension Muskingum County

Sources:

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (2024). National Nutrition Month. https://www.eatright.org/about-national-nutrition-month

Klemm, S. & Kohn, J. (2024). 50 Ideas to Get Involved in National Nutrition Month. https://www.eatright.org/health/wellness/awareness-campaigns/50-ideas-to-get-involved-in-national-nutrition-month

National Nutrition Month

A rainbow of fruits and vegetables

When you think about nutrition, what is the first thing that comes to mind? For me, it is my diet and what I consume – healthy or not. This month is National Nutrition Month, which focuses on the importance on making informed food choices and creating good eating and physical activity habits. With spring right around the corner, the weather will soon be warmer and more inviting to be outside, and food choices will become more diverse! Here in Ohio, the rate of death from heart disease is 12% higher than the rate for the United States… Yikes! Heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic diseases can be minimized with changes to our lifestyles, such as nutrition! When our nutrition is not quite the way it should be for a long period of time, it takes a dramatic toll on our health, so let’s talk about ways to incorporate good habits in March!

Sometimes, if you have older adults in your life that struggle with health issues, it will begin with a conversation about why you are concerned about their eating habits and the importance of good choices. Say why eating is important, such as stating “Your health is important to me. I care about you and want you to live a healthy life”. Suggest healthy changes or even offer to help. These steps of feeling supported can help healthy changes stick! Celebrate Your Plate is a great resource to find healthy, seasonal recipes that are budget and family friendly as well! Fixing eating habits can be difficult, so start small. Here are a few tips to help on your journey to better health and nutrition in 2024:
1) Eat a variety of whole grains, proteins, and fat-free or low-fat dairy products. Protein foods include seafood, poultry, beans, nuts, and eggs.
2) Eat a colorful variety of fruits and veggies. These are high in fiber and nutrients.
3) Don’t get overly “salty” when picking out food. Look for wording like “low sodium” or “no salt added” on packaged goods. Using herbs and spices is a great way to add flavor to food without adding salt.

Written by: Alexus Masterson, MPH, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Muskingum County, Ohio State University Extension, masterson.98@osu.edu

Reviewed by: Jenny Lobb, MPH, RDN, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Franklin County, Ohio State University Extension

Resources:

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. (2024, February 29). National Nutrition Month. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. https://www.eatright.org/about-national-nutrition-month.

Celebrate Your Plate. (2024). https://celebrateyourplate.org/

National Health Service. (2022, November 22). 8 tips for healthy eating. NHS. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/how-to-eat-a-balanced-diet/eight-tips-for-healthy-eating/

Are You a Multitasker?

Sometimes our lives become so busy that we feel we need to take on more than one task at a time to get it all done. Maybe you are helping your child with their homework, while also making dinner for the evening. Perhaps at work you are answering emails while also preparing materials for your upcoming meeting. We may multitask without even thinking about it, but what exactly is happening in our brains when we multitask and are there costs to our health and productivity?

There are a few different ways that we can multitask. Sometimes we may do two tasks at once (walking and talking) while other times we may flip back and forth between 2 or more tasks (texting a friend and reading a book). When we move between tasks, it can take a little time for your brain to switch from one task to another. This switch can be easier and quicker with simple tasks, but can take more time between complex or unfamiliar tasks. This may not seem like a big deal, but that short delay could make a huge difference in split second decisions, such as if someone was driving while talking on the phone and needed to quickly avoid a collision.

A businesswoman is multitasking in office

What can we do to help increase our focus and attention in a world where we may feel like we have to multitask?

  • Try “monotasking” – keep your focus on one task at a time. You can even set a timer for when you need to move on to your next thing. The “Pomodoro Method” recommends focusing for 25-50 minutes, then rewarding yourself with a 5-10 minute mental break after.
  • Avoid electronic distractions – turn your phone to its “do not disturb” setting or mute your emails at work for a set period of time. Just don’t forget to unmute when you are done with your task!
  • Ease up your schedule – allow for slow periods or schedule “slow days” to give your mind a break or catch up on tasks. For me, I try to make Fridays my day to catch up at work.
  • Communicate clearly with others. If you need help or are feeling over-whelmed, be sure to reach out to your family, friends, or coworkers. You can also let your loved ones know when you may be unavailable for them to reach by phone or text (such as when you are driving!).

What ways do you combat the costs of multitasking? Let us know in the comments!

Written By:  Jessica Lowe, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Pickaway County, Ohio State University Extension, lowe.495@osu.edu

Reviewed By:  Caitlin Mathews-Smith, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Guernsey County, Ohio State University Extension, mathews-smith.1@osu.edu

Resources:

American Psychological Association. (2006, March 20). Multitasking: Switching costs. American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/topics/research/multitasking

Cornell University. (n.d.). The perils of multitasking. Learning Strategies Center. https://lsc.cornell.edu/managing-time-and-stress/the-perils-of-multitasking/

University of Southern California. (2023, November 17). Are there benefits of multitasking?. USC Dornsife. https://appliedpsychologydegree.usc.edu/blog/benefits-of-multitasking

Spring into Action!

Floral-decorated cleaning equipment.

Spring is right around the corner–the birds are singing, we see a bit more sunlight each day, and common blue violets are beginning to speckle Ohio grass!

With the transitioning of the seasons, many of us are planning our spring activities: starting seeds for summer gardens, tidying and fertilizing flower beds, etc. Another activity on your spring checklist may include spring cleaning/decluttering.

Where does the term “spring cleaning” originate? A Smithsonian exhibit from 2000 showcased the history of housecleaning and featured diary entries from women circa the 1800s.

According to their entries, this cleaning tradition began in order to remove the dust and soot that accumulated in the household from wood burners and lanterns used to heat homes. Beating rugs, opening the windows and doors to allow fresh air to revive their home, and dusting and scrubbing the soot away.

Why continue this tradition today?

Physical Activity

Spring cleaning is a physical task—from dusting, vacuuming, and mopping, to rearranging furniture. The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week, and Harvard Health Publishing suggests that 30 minutes of heavy cleaning burns approximately 162 calories for an individual weighing 155 lbs.

Stress Management

Per the Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA), physical activity is one of the most recommended coping strategies for stress management. Physical activity is “effective at reducing fatigue, improving alertness and concentration” and “enhancing overall cognitive function.” Additionally, the endorphins released through physical activity “improve the ability to sleep, which in turn reduces stress.”

Hazard Prevention

Keeping our homes tidy and clutter-free helps decrease the risk of falls. The Ohio Department of Aging recommends clearing walkways, removing trash, paper, cords, and boxes, folding blankets and putting away pillows that are not in use.

Whatever your reason for spring cleaning, the tradition certainly instills a feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment. Start small and break up activities to avoid feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. Enjoy the process, then sit back and admire the results!

Written by: Caitlin Mathews-Smith, Family and Consumer Sciences, Guernsey County, Ohio State University Extension, mathews-smith.1@osu.edu

Reviewed by: Jessica Lowe, Family and Consumer Sciences, Pickaway County, Ohio State University Extension, lowe.495@osu.edu

Sources:

American Heart Association editorial staff and reviewed by science and medicine advisors (Ed.). (2024, January 19). American Heart Association Recommendations for Physical Activity in Adults and Kids. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-in-adults

Calories burned in 30 minutes for people of three different weights. Calories burned in 30 minutes of leisure and routine activities-Harvard Health Publishing. (2021, March 8). https://www.health.harvard.edu/diet-and-weight-loss/calories-burned-in-30-minutes-for-people-of-three-different-weights

K., J. (2010, March 25). Spring Cleaning is Based on Practices from Generations Ago. Spring cleaning is based on practices from generations ago. https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/03/23/AR2010032303492.html

Ohio Department of Aging. (n.d.). Falls Prevention At Home. Falls Prevention at Home | Department of Aging. https://aging.ohio.gov/care-and-living/health-and-safety/fall-prevention/fall-prevention-at-home-1

Physical activity reduces stress. Physical Activity Reduces Stress | Anxiety and Depression Association of America, ADAA. (n.d.-b). https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/related-illnesses/other-related-conditions/stress/physical-activity-reduces-st

Photo Credits:     

Pixabay.

 

More Fun with Less Sun

Three individuals smiling at the beach. All are wearing sunglasses and a man is also wearing a hat.

As the weather warms up, we spend more time outdoors and we need to take steps to protect our skin, lips, and eyes. According to the Mayo Clinic, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and 90% is caused by exposure to the sun. As you head outdoors, follow these ten tips to protect yourself and your loved ones from the damaging effects of the sun and reduce your chance of skin cancer:

  1. Apply broad spectrum sunscreen. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends wearing sunscreen every day to prevent sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. Print out this informative infographic about sunscreen and post it somewhere everyone can see as a friendly reminder to protect your skin.  
  2. Use lip protection. Just like your skin, your lips need protection from the sun. Use a lip balm that contains 30 SPF and protects you from both UVA and UVB rays (or says broad spectrum).
  3. Wear sunglasses. Slip on some cool shades and protect your eyes. People of all ages should wear sunglasses.
  4. Wear a wide-brimmed hat. Grab a hat that is tightly woven and has a rim at least 3-inches wide. This will protect the top of your head, your neck, your face, and ears from the sun.
  5. Wear sun protective clothing. Many fabrics have an Ultra Protective Factor (UPF) that protects your skin. Wearing clothes with 50 UPF is like wearing sunscreen with 30 SPF. Look for bathing suits, sun shirts, pants, and other clothing items with 50 UPF to provide a convenient way to protect your skin.
  6. Limit sun exposure. Avoid being outdoors when ultraviolet rays are their strongest, which tends to be between 10 AM and 4 PM.
  7. Seek shade. When you are outside, look for shade or bring your own. An umbrella, a shade tent, or natural shade can reduce your sun exposure. But don’t rely on shade alone to protect your skin.
  8. Protect windows. If you spend time near windows, make sure they block UV rays. To better understand the effect of spending time near a window, view the New England Journal of Medicine to see a picture of a 69-year-old truck driver and the sun damage caused to one side of his face.
  9. Perform skin self-exams. The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends that individuals, regardless of age, gender, and ethnicity, perform monthly skin self-exams. They have helpful resources to learn how to check your skin, what to look for, and how to record your findings.
  10. See a board-certified dermatologist every year. You should see a dermatologist once a year, or more often if you are at a higher risk of skin cancer, for a full-body, professional skin exam. When found early, skin cancer is highly treatable.
An older couple is smiling and the man and woman are wearing sunglasses and hats.

Statistics show that 1 out of every 5 Americans will develop a form of skin cancer in their lifetime. By following these tips and avoiding tanning beds, you can significantly reduce your risk of skin cancer, all while having more fun with less sun.

More Resources:
Did you know that many Ohio State University Extension educators are trained to teach about sun safety? Visit our webpage and contact the OSU Extension professional in your county to schedule an educational workshop today!

Written by: Laura M. Stanton, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Warren County. Email: stanton.60@osu.edu

Reviewed by: Heather Reister, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Butler County.

Sources:
American Academy of Dermatology Association. (2023, May 15). Find skin cancer: How to perform a skin self-exam. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/find/check-skin

American Cancer Society. (2023, July). Preventing skin cancer. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/sun-and-uv/skin-cancer-prevention-infographic.html

Gordon, J.R.S. and Brieva, J.C. (2012, April 19). Unilateral dermatoheliosis. The New England Journal of Medicine. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMicm1104059

Mayo Clinic (n.d.). Infographic: Skin cancer. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/skin-cancer/multimedia/skin-cancer-infographic/ifg-20441507

Richard, E. G. (2022). All about sunscreen. The Skin Cancer Foundation. https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen

Photo Credits: Adobe Stock.