CHCCS400BC - Allergies to sunscreen in kids

[shveta83]

Review the policy for early childhood services from the link . You will notice that allergies in relation to sunscreen are not mentioned in this policy.
Please write the use of an alternative sunscreen for children with allergies.
Anyone with sensitive skin and skin that reacts to sunscreen should avoid chemical based brands and try a natural alternative and better use the non-cosmetic sunscreens, such as a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses, and UV protective clothing.

Now that you have identified, reviewed and suggested changes to the policy, who do you take this information to in order for these changes to be implemented?

No idea .. Please advice??

Thanks

[Lorina]

This is basically asking you to find an alternative sunscreen that can be applied to a child who has allergies or sensitive skin to normal sunscreen. The first thing that you should do is find a sunscreen that is a natural alternative. Normally if a child is allergic the parents will provide you with another sunscreen brand which you could supply to that specific child. From here you will probably need to fill out an allergy form for the centre on that specific child noting down the name of the sunscreen that the child is allergic to and what alternative to use. Add this information onto the policy (without naming the child) and suggest this change to the centre director.

Example of a Sun Safety Policy:

> Each service has a supply of not less than SPF 30+ broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen which is applied to all exposed areas of skin 20 minutes before going outside and reapplied frequently.

> For children who are allergic or have sensitive skins parent/carer(s) are requested to provide a suitable sunscreen.

> Parent/carer(s) are encouraged to apply a layer of sunscreen before bringing their children to the service or on arrival. Sun screen will be re-applied throughout the day.

> Parents are also encouraged to dress children in protective clothing, i.e. lightweight shirts (preferably a closely woven fabric) with collars and long sleeves to provide maximum sun protection.

> Suitable clothing is encouraged to cover as much skin as possible including the shoulders, back and stomach and protect the children from the effects of the sun.

This includes wearing:
• Loose-fitting shirts and dresses with sleeves and collars or covered neckline
• Longer-style skirts, shorts and trousers.

> All children will wear sunhats while outdoors. The NSW Cancer Council guidelines recommend that children's hats provide shade to the face, ears and the back of the neck. A sun safe hat is:

• Legionnaire hat

• Bucket hat with a deep crown and brim size of at least 5cm (adults 6cm)

• Broad brimmed hat with a brim size of at least 6cm (adults 7.5cm).

> Children without hats will be kept indoors or in a well shaded area, or can be provided with a spare hat.

REF: http://www2.canterbury.nsw.gov.au/child ... 32-317.pdf

,
L.A

[shveta83]

Thanks so much for your help .. Much appreciated

[FarahTomlin]

Children have allergies to sunscreen because many of them contains very harsh material and also greater amount of SPF whcih causes reaction to tender skin of children.