Through this initiative, the school is the first in the district to apply for certification as a “Clever in Sun and Shade” school. This certification is awarded as part of a prevention program organized by German Cancer Aid, the National Center for Tumor Diseases in Dresden, the Working Group for Dermatological Prevention (Arbeitsgemeinschaft Dermatologische Prävention e. V.), the University Hospital of Cologne, and the University Cancer Center Schleswig-Holstein.
Playful Education on Sun Protection
Sunny sizzles in the sun wearing a skimpy outfit and no sunscreen, sunglasses, or sunblock, while Coco hides from the sun in a winter jacket, boots, a scarf, gloves, and giant sunglasses. The two clowns created a fun atmosphere and piqued the children’s curiosity. With plenty of humor and clear explanations, the students learned why sun protection is so important and how they can protect themselves from harmful UV radiation in everyday life. They helped Sunny and Coco learn how to be smart about the sun. Christine Benz, vice principal of Fuchshof Elementary School, and Melanie Brose, homeroom teacher for Class 2d, agree: “You can’t start raising awareness about such important health topics early enough.”
Hands-On Activities for Students
During the hands-on part of the event, the children were able to creatively paint their own “Cappys” and design buttons featuring sun-themed motifs. “This creates personalized keepsakes that serve as lasting reminders of what they’ve learned in their everyday lives,” explained Filiz Ugur, a staff member in the Department of Health Promotion and Health Planning.
Various interactive games, such as dice and skittles games with questions about sun protection, generated even more excitement. “Through a variety of activity stations, the topic comes to life and helps the children reinforce their newly acquired knowledge,” said Dr. Uschi Traub, head of the Department of Health Promotion and Health Planning. About two-thirds of the children had already experienced a sunburn.
Information for Parents and Teachers as Well
The following evening, staff from the Health Department held an informational event for parents and teachers. The focus was on skin cancer prevention and the effects of UV radiation, as well as practical measures for effective sun protection in everyday family life. The goal was to raise parents’ awareness of the importance of consistent sun protection and to empower them as important role models for their children.
