Nursery sun care policy

At The University of Dundee Day Nursery Ltd we are committed to ensuring that all children are fully protected from the dangers of too much sun/UV rays. Severe sunburn in childhood can lead to the development of malignant melanoma (the most dangerous type of skin cancer) in later life.

We follow guidance from the weather and UV level reports and use the following procedures to keep children safe and healthy in the sun:

• Key persons will work with the parents of their key children to decide and agree on suitable precautions to protect children from burning, including more sensitive skins types and those that may be more tolerant to the sunshine, e.g. black and/or Asian colouring
• Children must have a clearly labelled sun hat which will always be worn whilst outside in sunny weather. This hat will preferably be of legionnaires design (i.e. with an extended back and side to shield children’s neck and ears from the sun) to provide additional protection
• Staff must be aware of the expiry date and discard sunscreen after this date
• Parents are requested to supply light-weight cotton clothing for their children suitable for the sun.
• Children’s safety and welfare in hot weather is the nursery’s prime objective so staff will work closely with parents to ensure all appropriate cream and clothing is provided
• Staff will make day-to-day decisions about the length of time spent outside depending on the strength of the sun
• Children will always have sun cream applied before going outside in the hot weather and at frequent intervals during the day
• Children are encouraged to drink cooled water more frequently throughout sunny or warm days, and this is accessible both indoors and out
• Children are made aware of the need for sun hats, sun cream and the need to drink more fluids during their time in the sun
• Shade will be provided to ensure children are able to still go out in hot weather, cool down or escape the sun should they wish or need to.
• All sun creams are supply by nursery however if child has any allergy parents must provide the sun cream.

Staff applying sun cream must wear a disposable apron and a new disposable glove for each child.

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