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Scorching weather puts 26 million students at risk during vacation, expert warns
Scorching weather puts 26 million students at risk during vacation, expert warns
Save the Children shares tips on how to protect kids from extreme heat
With more than 26 million students now on school break, a child expert is raising concerns over the dangers of extreme heat—especially for children who spend long hours outdoors or in homes without proper cooling.
“Children, especially those under 5, are more vulnerable to scorching weather,” said Save the Children’s Early Childhood Care and Development Advisor Joy Sampang. “They are less able to regulate their body temperature while playing outdoors,” she added.
As temperatures rise, parents and communities are urged to take proactive steps to keep children safe and healthy during the sweltering summer months.
“Young children may also be unable to recognize or express symptoms of heat-related distress, making them more susceptible to harm,” Sampang said.
Students on break
The “summer” break has officially begun for millions of students nationwide as of April 16, following the SY 2024–2025 school calendar set by the Department of Education (DepEd).
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), several areas across the country have been experiencing danger-level heat indices, ranging from 42°C to 47°C.
READ:
https://mb.com.ph/2025/4/18/dangerous-heat-index-in-16-areas
Save the Children emphasized that these extreme temperatures not only increase the risk of heatstroke and dehydration but also heighten the likelihood of respiratory illnesses, kidney disease, and emotional distress—impacting children’s ability to learn and play.
Given these risks, Sampang urges parents and caregivers to take extra precautions.
“When children feel exhausted, stressed, or anxious due to extreme heat, their focus, play, and learning suffer,” Sampang said. “We must create safe spaces where children can learn and thrive despite the rising temperatures,” she added.
Helping kids cope
With climate change driving temperatures to record highs, many students remain vulnerable due to limited access to cooling measures and safe recreational spaces—prompting calls for urgent government intervention and community support.
Regarded as the world’s first and leading independent children’s organization with more than 100 years of expertise, Save the Children recommends five simple ways to help children cope with extreme heat:
1. Use child-friendly language. Explain the risks of hot weather in words they can relate to: “When it's really hot outside, birds find shady trees to stay cool—just like we stay indoors to stay safe and comfortable.”
2. Offer reassurance. Help children understand that feeling tired or uncomfortable in the heat is normal and that adults are doing their best to protect them.
3. Create cooling corners. Set up cozy, shaded spaces at home with soft pillows, books, and cooling packs where kids can rest when feeling overwhelmed.
4. Practice breathing techniques. Try the “smell the flower, blow the candle” method to help children stay calm and centered.
5. Encourage self-expression. Invite kids to draw, tell stories, or talk about their feelings during hot days to help them process and cope with the heat.
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