Sun Safety for Daycares

One of the best ways to teach is by example. Here are some ways to get children to understand the importance of sun safety and how to protect themselves from harmful UV rays:

1. Work together with parents and the local Public Health Department to develop a "Sun Safety Policy" for your daycare.
2. Check out the rest of the Sun Safety section to teach children about the dangers of UV rays and how to protect themselves.
3. Have a "silly hat" day, where children are invited to bring in their silliest sun hats. This will encourage them to choose a fun hat that they love, making them more likely to want to wear it on a regular basis.
4. Prepare a checklist for the children in your care to follow everyday before playing outside. Go through the list every day as a group, perhaps adding rhyme, to ensure protection and encourage them to adopt these rules as long-term lifestyle habits.
5. Try to schedule outdoor play time before 11am or after 4pm. If the children must be outdoors, make sure they are properly protected with long-sleeves, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
6. When playing outside, seek shade whenever possible. Teach children how to find the UV Index on the weather station or search for their shadow as an indication of the sun's strength. (If your shadow is shorter than you are, it's time to find some shade!). Create a chart at the daycare or school to show what the daily UV Index should be.
7. Plan an activity around identifying shady places. Talk to the children about the ways we can have fun in the shade (swimming on the shady side of the pool, placing sand boxes under trees, etc.). Encourage them to think of ideas too!