By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM
THERE will be no shortage of sunscreen, hats and sunglasses at Casey kindergartens this summer after all council-managed early childhood services received the SunSmart tick of approval.
The SunSmart Early Childhood Program encourages healthy levels of ultraviolet exposure among preschool children.
All 42 of Casey Council’s kindergarten services and family daycare providers have been accepted into the program, deemed to have taken appropriate measures to keep children safe in the sun.
SunSmart Early Childhood Program co-ordinator Justine Osborne congratulated the City of Casey on prioritising sun protection.
“We are delighted to recognise Casey for reaching 100 per cent membership in our program,” she said.
“It shows that each of the early childhood services managed by the City of Casey is making a real commitment to skin cancer prevention through policies, education, the use of sun protection and the provision of shady outdoor environments.”
City of Casey Mayor Mick Morland recently visited Hampton Park’s Valley Brook Kindergarten to congratulate them on the achievement.
He said that it is imperative that service providers remain vigilant throughout the season.
“Council is committed to ensuring all children in our services can always enjoy the great outdoors in a SunSmart way,” he said.
“Council worked with SunSmart to develop a weather protection policy, which recognises the importance of sun protection during peak UV times – not just when it’s a hot day.”
Children and staff at the services providers will wear hats from September to April and are also encouraged to apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing.
The facilities will provide shady areas to play and some children will also wear sunglasses for added eye protection.
