Sunscreen Fun
Parent turns sunscreen application into a playful, humorous interaction using gentle tickles, funny faces, and a soft toy to distract baby. The agent coaches the parent to observe laughter, coping responses, and social engagement during a typically challenging routine — building humor development and positive coping skills.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
Baby in a comfortable position — lying on back on a changing mat or sitting supported. Have baby sunscreen and a soft toy or cloth within reach. Best done before going outside or as part of a daily routine.
How it works
- 1~30s
Start by warming the sunscreen in your hands. Before you even touch your child's skin, bring out the soft toy and make it 'dance' near their face. Use a silly voice for the toy — 'Hello your child! I'm here to help with sunscreen!' Then gently tickle their neck or belly with the toy while you start applying sunscreen to their arms. Watch your child's face — does they smile or show amusement at the toy's antics? Tell me what you notice.
Watch for: Baby shows amusement or laughter in response to playful, silly interactions during sunscreen application.
- 2~35s
Now let's focus on the sunscreen sensation itself. As you apply it to your child's legs or back, use the toy to create a gentle 'massage' motion — have the toy 'help' rub in the sunscreen. Make funny sound effects: 'Squish squish!' or 'Rub-a-dub-dub!' Notice if your child becomes more relaxed or accepting of the sensation. Does they stop fussing? Does they watch the toy with curiosity rather than distress?
Watch for: Baby shows improved tolerance or acceptance of an unpleasant routine through playful distraction.
- 3~30s
For our final step, make eye contact with your child while you finish applying sunscreen. Use the toy to give them a little 'high five' or gentle tickle on the nose. Talk directly to your child: 'All done! We're sun-safe and we had fun!' Notice if your child maintains engagement with you — does they make eye contact, smile, or coo? Does they seem to recognize this as a positive social interaction rather than just a care task?
Watch for: Baby shows social engagement and connection during a caregiving routine.