sun safety: fun sunscreen

We all know how hard it is to get kids to apply sunscreen or to sit still when we try to rub it on them. Sunbow makes it easier with formulas that come in engaging packaging and are fun to put on. When I first sprayed my 3.5 year old daughter with the Dora the Explorer blue goop, she couldn't wait to rub it in herself. When I grabbed a different brand in haste the next day, she pouted all the way to camp because "I wanted the blue sunscreen, mommy!"

My son, age 5, feels the same attachment to the SpongeBob Square Pants version, which comes in yellow (his favorite color) and--btw--also smells like bubble gum. Personally, I'm just thrilled with the bright colored formulas (they are easily absorbed and dry clear) that are gentle on their skin, and the maximum protection (SPF 30) from UVA/UVB rays. Try Sunbow Sunscreen Spray ($9.99), Sunbow Sun Stick ($7.99) and Sunbow Zinc Oxide Cream ($12.99).

Sunbow products are available at www.sunbowsunscreen.comand www.drugstore.com.

go with the flojo's

Ahhh, the lazy days of summer--kicking back at the beach, pina colada in hand, leafing through a juicy novel as the tide ripples at your feet.

You wish! Try zipping around the city, hauling your toddler to gym class, racing back to pick up your preschooler from camp and take him to the playground for an hour, then running home to start dinner and the nighttime routine. If that sounds more like what your summer will entail, you'll need lightweight, comfortable shoes that will keep you on the go--whether you're at the market, at the playground, or getting to and fro.

I love the Pixie style flip-flop ($22) from the Flojo's collection--it's simple and versatile, especially in refreshing summer white (it comes in black and brown too). It has a cool silver and gray, flower/vine patterned sole, so when you slip them off to sit on the mat during your kid's music class, you can show off the pretty pattern. And talk about comfort. The straps don't dig and there's a slight wedge at the sole so you get a bit of a lift but won't strain your calf muscles the way you do with a higher wedge. The only problem is, my two-and-a-half year old daughter loves them as much as I do so I have to hide them when she's playing dress up. Also, check out the Miranda ($26), a braided-strap sandal with soft, intertwining straps and a henna-esque foot bed design (available in chestnut or black).

To see the full Flojo's collection (including surfer-inspired styles for men), go to www.flojos.com.

expert advice: tips for a safe summer from dr. max lebow

Summer safety is a priority with a handful of kids running around. To avoid unecessary mishaps, follow these tips from Dr. Max Lebow, Medical Director of Reliant Immediate Care Medical Group, Inc., a 24-hour urgent care medical facility in the heart of Los Angeles, adjacent to LAX. 1. Bee stings and bug bites usually cause little more than discomfort and can be treated with an alcohol swab. If there is excessive swelling, abnormal breathing, tightness in the throat or chest, loss of consciousness or nausea and vomiting, seek immediate medical assistance. 2. Food poisoning is a potentially very serious problem. Remember to wash your hands before preparing food. Mayonnaise, dairy, meat and fish either cooked or uncooked should be kept out of the sun, covered against dust or bugs and kept cool. 3. Most of us are not used to being in the hot sun all day, so wear a hat, use sunscreen and drink plenty of water. Board certified in Emergency and preventative medicine. Dr. Lebow is committed to Reliant's patients receiving prompt and affordable quality care in a family orientated environment. For more expert advice, go to www.reliantimmediatecare.com.