Outdoor heat stress at preschools during an extreme summer in Gothenburg, Sweden - Preschool teachers’ experiences contextualized by radiation modelling

Abstract

Using a mixed-method approach consisting of interviews with preschool teachers and modelling of the outdoor thermal conditions using the mean radiant temperature as an indicator of heat stress, the occurrence of heat stress in Gothenburg preschools during the summer of 2018 and its effects have been studied. One third of 440 preschool yards modelled have more than 50% of the preschool yard-area exposed to strong heat stress during a warm and sunny summer day, implying children in many preschools have considerably less play area than current guidelines deem sufficient. Shade, where present, was mostly from trees within the preschool yards themselves rather from objects in surrounding areas, provided effective heat mitigation. Interviews confirmed that excessive heat conditions at preschool yards resulted in tired, drowsy and overheated children as well as forcing the preschool to prioritise care over pedagogical activities. The results demonstrated that heat stress occurs at Gothenburg preschools, with difficulties in ensuring the well-being of children at many preschools as a consequence. Many preschools need more shade, preferably from trees to provide healthy and secure environments for preschool children. Finally, the study highlights the need for more research on how weather and outdoor environments affect children's activity and well-being.