Chaplain's Chat

Hi Everyone, 

I Hope you've been enjoying those great, hot summer days we've had lately. Its been so nice being able to go out to parks and the beach to enjoy it while it lasts. I've loved hearing all about it in the yard. 

One important thing to remember is to make sure we are staying safe in the hot Australian sun. When it gets too hot, the sun can cause sunburn, skin damage, eye damage and even skin cancer. Studies have even shown that too much exposure to the sun as a child can also cause issues with skin cancer later on in life. 

It is important to teach your children to protect themselves from the sun and learn good sun protection habits which they can use their entire lives. 

The best ways to protect yourself are: 

• Use clothing to cover skin: Choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that won’t make your child too hot
   
• Slop on sunscreen: Put it on any area of skin not covered by clothes including face, arms and hands
   
• Slap on a hat: The best types of hats provide the best protection. Here at school, we make sure our hats are Sun Smart and cover the neck, eyes and ears. Kids should not be playing without a hat during Term 1 and Term 4

• Seek shade: On really hot days, use trees, shelters and umbrellas to reduce sunlight and stay cool.
   
• Use sunglasses: Make sure eyes do not look directly into the sun and are protected with good sunglasses. 

If your child does get burnt from the sun make sure they drink plenty of water and remain cool. If the burn starts to blister or get too painful take them to a doctor. 

Remember: The best way to teach your child safe habits is to model the correct behavior yourself. Don’t forget to put on your own hat, sunscreen and sunglasses! 

Stay Safe!