At childcare centres, children engage in a variety of outdoor activities. The SunSmart program provides guidance and support on protecting children from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.
As dedicated carers and educators of babies and children, your goal is to create the healthiest environment for babies and children to thrive. Shielding them from skin and eye damaging UV radiation is a crucial step in keeping them safe and giving them the best start in life.
Infants and toddlers have more sensitive skin, making them especially vulnerable to UV damage. Research highlights that childhood is a critical period when sun exposure can significantly increase the risk of developing skin cancer later in life.
By actively reducing sun exposure during these formative years, we can safeguard their health and wellbeing, ensuring a brighter, healthier future.
All childcare services are required to have a sun protection policy, as per the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority’s National Quality Standard.
Early childhood centres hold a duty of care to minimise children’s exposure to harmful UV rays and foster an environment that promotes and encourages sun safe behaviours. By doing so, we ensure that children can play, learn, and grow in a safe and protected setting. See the National Quality Framework Fact Sheet.
The SunSmart program is a valuable resource that supports childcare and early learning services in developing, implementing, and maintaining effective sun protection policies.
Together, we can create a sun safe future for our children.
Joining the SunSmart program is a powerful way to show your dedication to the health and wellbeing of children and staff.
Upon joining, you receive a sign and certificate to proudly display, signalling to parents and the community that:
By participating in SunSmart, you reinforce your commitment to creating a safe, healthy environment where children can thrive.
Sun safety is a crucial work health and safety consideration for childcare centres. Your SunSmart policy describes how staff will be protected from harmful UV.
By implementing these measures, you not only ensure the safety of your staff but also demonstrate to the children in your care the importance of sun protection.
Our sun safety experts are here to assist you. They will answer your questions and provide feedback and recommendations for your sun protection policy and its implementation.
Cancer Council offers a variety of free resources to support your sun protection efforts. These include classroom posters, brochures and flyers for parents, and creative ideas for classroom activities.
SunSmart services review their sun protection policy every three years to maintain their membership. Renewal of membership is free of charge.
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