SunSmart practices for ECEC as warmer weather returns

As the season turns and warmer temperatures return to many parts of the country, early childhood education and care (ECEC) services are being reminded about the importance of using SunSmart strategies to safeguard children’s health and wellbeing.

 

Being ‘SunSmart’ refers to a set of practices designed to protect individuals from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Some of these practices include seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, wearing a hat, and wearing sunglasses.  

 

Helping children, staff and parents to be SunSmart is a crucial aspect of creating a safe and healthy environment for children. 

 

Recently the Early Learning Association Australia (ELAA) provided some creative suggestions to support ECEC services to be compliant, and to keep cool, calm and comfortable in warmer weather. 

 

Create some shade

 

“Shade is your best friend during hot summer conditions,” the information from ELAA notes.

 

“Consider creating shade oases in outdoor areas of your service. Look at installing large umbrellas, shade cloths, or even planting trees strategically to provide ample shaded areas where children can play, relax, and engage in outdoor activities while avoiding direct sunlight.”

 

Dress for the weather

 

ELAA recommends services to encourage children to wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs, and that parents should be educated about the importance of dressing their children appropriately for the summer season, opting for light-coloured fabrics that reflect sunlight instead of absorbing it.

 

Apply sunscreen regularly

 

Regular and proper application of sunscreen is vital in protecting children’s delicate skin from harmful UV rays. ELAA suggests collaborating with parents to create a sunscreen routine that includes applying sunscreen at home before arrival and reapplying throughout the day, and to involve children in the process by making it fun and engaging. 

 

Hydrate regularly 

 

“Staying hydrated is crucial during hot summer conditions,” ELAA said. 

 

“Set up hydration stations throughout your ECEC service, ensuring easy access to fresh water at all times. Encourage children to drink water regularly by making it a fun activity like using colourful cups, straws, and adding slices of fruit like lemon or cucumber to enhance the flavour.”

 

Cool spaces inside

 

When the weather is extreme, children may need to be kept indoors, ELAA said. 

 

“Create cool zones within your early childhood service where children can engage in refreshing activities away from direct sunlight. We suggest setting up sensory play areas with water tables, ice cubes, and misting fans. Provide opportunities for creative expression through indoor arts and crafts projects.”

 

Connect the community

 

In some services language barriers and low levels of literacy may contribute to heat vulnerability. 

 

ELAA suggests ensuring that families are given access to resources on SunSmart practices, emergency services, and understanding heat, in a variety of languages and formats. 

 

Providing points of contact with the service and engaging with children in programs to guide them on the importance of community safety during hot weather may also support. 

 

For more on SunSmart practices, resources and information, please see here.

 

For more on extreme heat and vulnerable communities, please see here.