The scheme has been developed by national skin cancer charity 'Skcin', to assist nurseries and pre-school settings in implementing a successful sun safety policy, whilst educating children to increase knowledge, influence behaviour and prevent skin cancer.
Whilst we recognise that some sun is good for us, sun safety is an important health and safety issue. Children spend almost half their childhood at pre and primary school, with a great deal of time spent outdoors. During the warmer months of the year children are exposed to Ultraviolet Radiation (UVR) from the sun, the majority of which is when penetration is strongest (between 11am and 3pm). Without adequate protection, a child's delicate skin can easily burn, this can cause cumulative and irreparable damage that could significantly increase their risk of developing skin cancer in later life.
Over the last couple of months, we have already asked via newsletters and online for parents to provide a high factor sun cream (SPF 50, with UVA & UVB protection) and hat which also covers the neck. We thank those parents who have already provided those! We also remind you to, on very warm sunny days, ensure your child arrives at Little Chums for their session with loose fitting clothing that covers as much of the arms and shoulders as possible.
A copy of our full sun care policy is available on request.
You can download a copy of the Skcin charity sun care information booklet here...
More information and resources can be found on the Sun Safe Nurseries website here...
