12 SepBeating the heat
Beating the heat: SunSmart practices in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) services
As the warmer season arrives, it becomes increasingly essential for ECEC services to ensure the well-being and safety of children and their community. In this article we’ve highlighted the importance of SunSmart strategies and provided a few creative ideas for early childhood services to keep children, families and potential disadvantaged groups in the community cool, comfortable, and safe during hot summer conditions.
So what is SunSmart?
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.
Educating children, staff, and parents about SunSmart behaviour is crucial in creating a safe and healthy environment.
Creating shade oasis
Shade is your best friend during hot summer conditions. Consider creating shade oases in outdoor areas of your early childhood 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.
Dressing for the sun
Encourage children to wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs. Educate parents about the importance of dressing their children appropriately for the summer season. They should opt for light-coloured fabrics that reflect sunlight instead of absorbing it.
Sunscreen application
Regular and proper application of sunscreen is vital in protecting children’s delicate skin from harmful UV rays. Collaborate with parents to create a sunscreen routine that includes applying sunscreen at home before arrival and reapplying throughout the day. Try involving children in the process by making it fun and engaging.
Hats and sunglasses
Provide a variety of hats and sunglasses for children to choose from, considering their preferences and comfort. Look at creating a “SunSmart Accessories Corner” where children can explore and select their favourite hats and sunglasses before heading outdoors.
Hydration stations
Staying hydrated is crucial during hot summer conditions. 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.
Indoor cool zones
Sometimes, extreme heat may call for indoor activities. 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.
Community engagement
Language barriers and low literacy are major drivers of heat vulnerability. Ensure families have access to resources on SunSmart practices, emergency services, and understanding heat, in a variety of languages and formats. Provide points of contact with the service and engage with children in programs to guide them on the importance of community safety during hot weather.
For more on SunSmart practices, resource and information, please CLICK HERE.
For more on extreme heat and vulnerable communities, please READ HERE.
