Hillcrest mums, Donna Short and Hayleigh Bott, are on a mission to grow a generation of sun safe and sun educated children.
In the picture: Donna Short (SunSavvy), Katy Moore (NIVEA Sun Brand Manager) and Hayleigh Bott (SunSavvy)
Don’t turn a blind eye to sunburn and the risk of cancer when your children spend too long in the harsh South African sun without protection.
NIVEA Sun and SunSavvy – an organisation started by these two concerned moms – have started with the installation of sunscreen dispensers filled with NIVEA Sun Moisturising Sun Spray SPF 50 in school classrooms and outdoor play areas.
The project, named Sun Safe, begins in KwaZulu-Natal with long term plans to roll out across South Africa. The serviced dispensers will make sunscreen instantly accessible when and where it is needed most.
Teachers will be encouraged to make sure children apply sunscreen before going out to play or engaging in sport. Children will also be educated on the dangers of sunburn and how to keep themselves protected.
The Skin Cancer Foundation of South Africa (SCFSA), who supports the initiative, points out that skin cancer is not only the most common form of cancer worldwide but that South Africa has one of the highest incidences.
A child’s skin is thinner than an adult’s and far more sensitive which means children are vulnerable to more sun damage within a shorter space of time.
Some schools in KwaZulu-Natal have already got behind this project including Hillcrest-based Kidz Academy Day Care, Curro HCA Hillcrest, Lucky Bean Playschool and Chatterbox Preschool as well as Kloof-based Happy Days Pre Primary, Happy Valley Educentre and Small World Nursery School.
The aim is to have more schools sign up in the months to follow. After all, schools are the places where healthy behaviours are taught and teachers play a major role in enhancing children’s knowledge, attitudes and behaviour.
Interested schools can email info@besunsafe.co.za or contact Hayleigh Bott on 082 419 2969.