Australia is renowned for its sunny weather, but with great sunshine comes great responsibility. Protecting young children from harmful UV rays is crucial to their health and well-being. At Milestones Early Learning, we’re committed to instilling lifelong sun safety habits in children while ensuring they enjoy outdoor play safely. Here’s a comprehensive look at sun safety, why it’s vital, and how we implement it at our centres.
Why Is Sun Safety So Important in Australia?
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, largely due to the country’s intense UV radiation levels. The UV Index, a scale that measures the strength of the sun’s ultraviolet rays, often reaches extreme levels in many parts of Australia. Prolonged exposure to these rays can lead to sunburn, premature skin aging, eye damage, and an increased risk of skin cancer later in life.
Young children are especially vulnerable because their skin is thinner and more sensitive than adults’. This makes it essential to prioritise sun protection from an early age to reduce their lifetime risk of sun damage.
What Is the UV Index?
The UV Index is a tool designed to inform people about the strength of ultraviolet radiation at a specific time and place. It ranges from 0 (low) to 11+ (extreme). In Australia, a UV Index of 3 or higher means sun protection is necessary.
Parents can use weather apps or websites like the Bureau of Meteorology to check the UV Index daily. This helps determine the best times for outdoor activities and when sun protection measures are required.
Starting Good Sun Safety Habits Early
Sun safety habits formed in childhood often last a lifetime. By teaching children to protect their skin and eyes at a young age, you’re equipping them with essential skills to safeguard their health as they grow.
At Milestones Early Learning, we focus on:
- Consistency: Encouraging children to wear hats and sunscreen daily.
- Education: Using fun, age-appropriate activities to teach children about the importance of sun safety.
- Role modeling: Educators consistently model sun-safe behaviours, setting a strong example for children.
How Families Can Model Good Sun Safety Habits at Home
Sun safety isn’t just for the playground - families can reinforce these habits at home:
- Slip, slop, slap, seek, slide:
- Slip on protective clothing.
- Slop on SPF 50+ sunscreen.
- Slap on a broad-brimmed hat.
- Seek shade during peak UV hours.
- Slide on sunglasses.
- Check the UV index: Make it a family ritual to check the UV Index daily and plan outdoor activities accordingly.
- Lead by example: Children are more likely to adopt sun-safe behaviours if they see parents and caregivers doing the same.
- Create a sun-safe kit: Keep hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses easily accessible for quick application before heading outdoors.
Sun Safety at Milestones Early Learning
We take sun safety seriously at Milestones Early Learning. Here are the steps we take to protect your child:
- Daily UV monitoring: Our educators monitor the UV Index daily to determine safe outdoor playtimes.
- Protective clothing: Children are encouraged to wear clothing with sleeves and broad-brimmed hats.
- Sunscreen application: We use SPF 50+ sunscreen and assist children in applying it at least 20 minutes before outdoor activities. Sunscreen is reapplied every two hours.
- Shade and play zones: Our outdoor play areas feature shaded spaces, including natural and built shade structures, to protect children from direct sunlight.
- Hats are important: Children are encouraged to put their hat back on if it falls off during outdoor play.
- Education through play: Sun safety is integrated into our curriculum through engaging activities, including stories, songs, and games.
Beyond the Centre: Partnering with Families for Sun Safety
We believe that the best outcomes for children happen when centres and families work together. Here are some ways we partner with families:
- Communication: We share regular updates about outdoor activities.
- Resources: We provide families with practical tips and guides to reinforce sun safety at home.
The Lifelong Impact of Sun Safety
When children learn sun safety early, they develop habits that reduce their risk of skin damage and skin cancer throughout their lives. Beyond the physical benefits, sun safety practices teach children about self-care and the importance of protecting their health.
Quick Sun Safety Checklist for Parents
- Check the UV Index daily.
- Pack a broad-brimmed hat for your child.
- Apply sunscreen before drop-off.
- Encourage lightweight, sun-protective clothing.
- Lead by example with your sun-safe habits.
At Milestones Early Learning, we’re proud to nurture your child’s curiosity and growth while prioritising their health and safety. Sun safety is just one of the many ways we create a supportive and secure environment for little learners.
For more information about our approach to sun safety or to book a tour, contact us today. Together, let’s protect your child under the Australian sun!
Find your nearest Milestones Early Learning Centre and get in contact.