Shouldn't a daycare/preschool limit the time kids spend outside on a 90+ degree day?

Question

At my daughter's daycare, they spend the whole afternoon outside, even when it hits triple digits on the thermometer. This can't be good for the kids, even if they play in shaded areas.

We live in Montana, where the weather can go to both extremes, both in winter and summer. A few days ago, it was 105 for a high and the kids were outside all afternoon, from naptime to when their parents picked them up. My daughter has come home red-faced and wrung-out. There is a water-fountain outside and some shade but at those temps, that doesn't seem to be adequate.

Answer 1

I wouldn't want my child outside all day in the summer. That is way too much sun exposure especially between the hours of 10am and 4pm. Even on a cloudy day 80 percent of the suns rays pass through clouds. The day care provider is setting those kids up for higher risks of skin cancer in their later life.

Here is a website with tips on sun exposure for children.
http://www.simplyparenting.com/articles/89

Another one that may be of interest:
http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/chooseyourcover/guide.htm

I would tell the day care provider that I do not want my child outdoors all day. Be firm... this is your daughter not hers. You tell her what hours you want your daughter outdoors. Your have the right to expect her to follow your wishes concerning your own child. If she doesn't respect your wishes, change your day care.

Good luck to you.

Answer 2

Where are you from?
Its ok for kids to be outside even in hot weather as long as they are propperly hydrated. When it hits those triple digits they should play outside for like and hour then play inside for 20 mins to cool down a bit. The constant heat isn't good as you say and if the playground has no shade this can increase the risks to the children. Children(everyone really) need constant water while playing in the heat. So I doubt they are providing/making the kids dring enough water while playing outside.
I would ask why theu are unwilling to take breaks and go inside for a little bit to help the kids stay safe.

Answer 3

If they are going to be outside that long there has to be a lot of shade, the kids must wear sunscreen, and they must be constantly encouraged to drink. There should be quiet activities available and places to sit. When I ran a day care center I did not allow the teachers to take the kids out between 11 and 3 in really hot weather. I still wouldn't.

Answer 4

You're right. I live in arizona and understand how hot it can really get outside. Maybe you should ask the day care if they could have the children color or draw pictures in the afternoon or at least install a canopy over their playground. Assuming they have a playground.

Answer 5

I would be concerned if there is a smog alert in your area. For the heat, as long as they keep drinking,use sunscreen, take breaks in the shade it should be fine. The kids probably love it.

Answer 6

Depends on the location/hydration/and sunscreen. I would think children in hot climates Mexico, Africa, etc spend a lot of time outside.

Answer 7

Here in Florida, they do limit playtime outside when summer hits. They also limit it in winter too. Especially if the children are young.

Answer 8

um. wow.
My daughters daycare limits them to 30 mins at a time ,and usually only go out when its cool or just warm. not hot . they have certain degrees they have to stay in between. They need to cut it out. or at least recommed sun screen and water play

Answer 9

Take care of your own kid and stop sending her to daycare... That'll solve the problem.