Exploring preventive behaviours of childcare centre staff in periods of heat

Abstract Background City temperatures in western Europe are expected to rise in the coming decades, following recent climate change projections. The behaviour of childcare staff plays a crucial role in protecting children from heat-related risks. In a collaborative project between science and public health this study explores the behaviours of childcare staff during heat and assesses their needs and capabilities. Methods Given the limited available knowledge on this topic, an exploratory online questionnaire was developed in collaboration with the municipal health service (GGD). Over forty childcare staff members participated in the questionnaire. The Behaviour Change Wheel (Michie et al., 2011) was integrated to examine staff behaviour in terms of capabilities, motivation, and opportunity. Results Results display that staff show strong knowledge (89%), motivation (96%) and experience social support from colleagues (86%) and managers (69%), but face physical limitations, such as unsuitable buildings (45%), outdoor spaces (34%), and time constraints (26%). Several childcare centres implemented a heat protocol to guide adequate behaviour during periods of heat. However, we found that clear and specific protocols for protecting children during heatwaves are not consistently available. Next to that, communication about the risks of heat for children with parents is inconsistent, and sometimes absent altogether. Recommendations Most childcare centres are privately owned, limiting the municipal influence in the physical environment. Follow-up research will explore how to promote adequate behaviour of staff, considering that the environment cannot always be changed. This will inform the development of clear policies and practical guidelines about behaviour to protect children during heat.