How are schools helping to protect children from sun exposure?

Some schools have very good sun protection policies in place which require students and staff wear sun protective hats (ie broad-brimmed, bucket or legionnaire style) whenever they are outside. A good policy will also include items on shade provision, sun protective uniform items, rescheduling activities, sunscreen and education.

If you are concerned about sun protection at your child's school speak to the school principal and/or ask to see the school's sun protection policy. If the school does not have a sun protection policy The Cancer Council can assist the school to develop one.

The Cancer Council's SunSmart Schools Program encourages schools to meet best practice and rewards those that do with the title of 'SunSmart School', a large metal 'SunSmart' sign and 20% discount at the Cancer Council shop.

How can I encourage sun protective behaviour?

There are a number of things that you can do to encourage your child to be SunSmart.

• Ensure that your child has a SunSmart hat and develop a routine to encourage your child to remember to take this hat to school. Make sun protection a life-long habit – just like cleaning your teeth the benefits are long term.
• Be familiar with the school sun protection policy.
• Be a good role model for your child and be SunSmart yourself by using shade, wearing a hat and protective clothing, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Provide a consistent message to your child about sun protection by continuing sun protective behaviours on the weekend.

For more information on sun protection visit www.cancerwa.asn.au/sunsmart or contact the Cancer Council's Schools Coordinator via email or call on 9212 4333.