Accident and emergency policy

 

It is my policy to keep children safe when they are in my care.

My premises have been checked and they meet the requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage in <country-region><place>England. I also regularly review, update and practise my safety routines, including fire drills.          

As a registered childminder, I am legally required to have a valid first-aid certificate before registration. I can administer basic first-aid treatment, and my first-aid box is clearly labelled and stored on the top shelf in the kitchen. Parent contact numbers are kept hung up in the hallway. I always keep a copy of parent contact details with me at all times.

I hold written permission from parents, as part of our agreement to seek emergency treatment for their child if it is needed.

Emergency back up cover can be provided by my assistant if needed.

Procedure

If there is an accident:

• First, I will reassure the injured child while making sure that the other children in my care are safe. This may mean strapping a baby in a buggy or sitting an older child somewhere safe where I can see them.

• Then, if possible, I will deal with the accident. If not, I will ring 999 for help.

• If I have to accompany or take a child to hospital, I will either take the other children with me, or leave them with my assistant.

If there is an accident or emergency, my assistant may contact you and you will be expected to collect your child straight away.

If I manage to deal with the accident myself, then I will tell the affected child’s parents immediately.

If I accompany or take a child to hospital, I will contact their parents and ask them to meet me at the hospital.

If I have an accident, I will get my assistant or the nearest responsible adult to help while parents are being contacted.

I will do my best at all times to make sure the children in my care are safe, reassured and kept calm.

Safeguarding and promoting children’s welfare The provider must take necessary steps to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.

 

Confidentiality Policy

 

All information on children, families and anyone working with me is kept securely and treated in confidence. Information will only be shared if the parents/carers/co-workers give their permission or there appears to be a child protection issue. All details will be kept confidential and records are kept secure. The details are easily accessible if any information is required for inspection by Ofsted.

Procedure

All parents are made aware that my policies are kept ready to view in a file in my hallway and are also available to view on my website www.basingstokechildminding.com.

My certificate of registration is displayed and available to all parents in the same file.

I am aware of my responsibilities under the Data Protection Act 1998 and the Freedom of Information Act 2000.

I maintain a record of parents’ emergency contact details, the contact details of the child’s GP and appropriate signed consent forms.

If a child is identified as a child in need (section 17 of the Children Act 1989) I will, normally with the parent’s permission, give appropriate information to referring agencies.

I expect parents to inform me of any changes in the child’s home circumstances, care arrangements or any other change which may affect the child’s behaviour such as a new baby, parents’ separation, divorce, new partner or any bereavement.

 All information shared will be kept confidential and will not be disclosed without the parents’ consent, except as required by law, for example, if there appears to be a child protection issue. Please see my Safeguarding Children policy.

Ofsted may require to my see records at any time.

Parents have the right to inspect all records about their child at any time.

All accidents are recorded in an accident book.

All significant incidents are recorded in an incident book and will be shared and discussed with parents so that together we can work to resolve any issues.

Organisation – “Providers must maintain records, policies and procedures required for the safe and efficient management of the settings to meet the needs of the children”.

 

Equal opportunities policy

 

I will make sure that I actively promote equality of opportunity and anti-discriminatory practices for all children. I will make sure that I treat all children with equal concern and respect.

Procedure

I recognise and welcome all legislation and existing codes of practice produced by appropriate commissions, for example the Equality and Human Rights Commission.

I value and respect the different racial origins, religions, cultures and languages in a multi-ethnic society so that each child is valued as an individual without racial or gender stereotyping. I will also not discriminate against children on the grounds of disability, sexual orientation, age, class, family status, and HIV/Aids status.

I provide equal chances for each child to learn and develop to their full potential, taking into account each child’s age and stage of development, gender, ethnicity, home language, and ability.

I provide, and make sure that all children have access to, a range of books, puzzles and other toys which provide positive images and examples of the diversity of life in our society.

I challenge racist and discriminatory remarks, attitudes and behaviour from the children in my care and other adults.

I will always help children to feel good about themselves and others by celebrating the differences which make us all unique.

Safeguarding and promoting children’s welfare The provider must take necessary steps to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.

 

Working with parents policy

 

I aim to work in partnership with parents to meet the needs of the children. 

All children and adults are treated with equal concern and are made to feel welcome in my home. 

Procedure

I keep up to date about working in partnership with parents and carers and with relevant legislation by taking regular training and by reading relevant publications.

All parents have access to my policies and procedures, they are available to view in my hallway and on my website www.basingstokechildminding.com and they detail how I run my setting.

I draw up and sign a written contract with parents before the placement starts which details the expectations of the care to be provided and business arrangements. The contract is signed by the parent(s) and myself and dated. A copy is given to the parent(s) and any other party involved in the contractual arrangements. The contract is reviewed every six months to 12 months or when circumstances change.

Wherever possible I try to meet parents’ requests for the care of their children according to their values and practices, preferences and attitudes. Family customs and beliefs about dietary requirements, dress code, hair and skin care, help required with toilet and washing are respected as detailed in my equal opportunities policy.

Records of the requirements agreed are kept attached to the child record forms. These records are revisited and updated during regular reviews with parents.

I will notify all parents in advance when I am to be inspected by Ofsted so that parents can contribute their views to the inspector if they want to. I will supply parents with a copy of the Ofsted within five working days of receiving the report.

I keep parents regularly informed about my daily routines and childcare practices and share information about the children with parents while the children are collected or dropped off.

I maintain a record of parents’ and/or emergency contact details, contact details for the child’s GP and appropriate signed consent forms. All details will be kept confidential and records are kept secure.

Children will only be released from my care to the parent(s)/carer(s), or to someone named and authorised by the parent/carer.

If a child is identified as a child in need (section 17 of the Children Act 1989) I will, normally with the parent’s permission, give appropriate information to referring agencies.

I expect parents to inform me of any changes in the child’s home circumstances, care arrangements or any other change which may affect the child’s behaviour, such as a new baby, parents’ separation, divorce, new partner or any bereavement. All information shared will be kept confidential unless there appears to be a child protection issue.

I offer regular review meetings with parents to discuss their child’s care and any issues or concerns, preferably when the child is not present. If I do not share the same first language as the child’s parent, I will find a way of communicating effectively with them. This may include seeking guidance from the local early years team.

I work together with parents to make sure that the care of their child is consistent. A consistent approach benefits the child’s welfare and helps ensure the child is not confused.

All complaints will be investigated. Please see my Complaints Policy.

All significant incidents are recorded in an incident book and will be shared and discussed with parents so that we can work together to resolve any issues.

Safeguarding and promoting children’s welfare – The provider must take necessary steps to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.

 

Smoking policy

 

It is my policy to ensure that children are in a smoke-free environment whilst in my care.

In order to do this I will ensure that:

• No-one smokes in a room when the children in my care are present or about to be present

• No-one smokes in an outside play area when the children in my care are present or about to be present

• If, in exceptional circumstances, the children in my care are expected to use any space that has been used for smoking then I will ensure that there is adequate ventilation to clear the atmosphere.

Safeguarding and promoting children’s welfare –The provider must promote good health of the children, take necessary steps to prevent infection, and take appropriate action when they are ill.

 

Safeguarding children policy

                                                                                                        

My first responsibility and priority is towards the children in my care. If I have any cause for concern I will report it, following the Local Safeguarding Children Board procedures. The relevant local procedures that are held by me are available on request. I understand that child abuse can be physical, sexual, emotional and neglectful, or a mixture of these. I must notify Ofsted of any allegations of abuse that are alleged to have taken place while the child is in my care. 

Procedure

I keep up to date with child protection issues and relevant legislation by taking regular training courses and by reading relevant publications. This helps me be aware of the signs of abuse or neglect and what to do if I have a concern.

If I am concerned about a child’s welfare, I will contact the local authority, the NSPCC, NCMA or other relevant support services for advice, confidentially will be assured only when it is clear that there is no risk of harm to a child.

Child protection concerns that could identify a particular child are kept confidential and only shared with people who need to know this information.

Parents must notify me of any concerns they have about their child and any accidents, incidents or injuries affecting the child, which will be recorded.

If I notice:

• significant changes in children’s behaviour

• unexpected bruising or marks or signs of possible abuse

• any comments made which give me cause for concern

• deterioration in general wellbeing which causes concern

• signs of neglect

I will implement the Local Safeguarding Children Board procedures without delay to minimise any risk to the child. I will call the local social services’ duty desk immediately, if it is known that a child is at risk of harm. I will follow it up with a letter within 48 hours. I will keep a factual record of the concern and will ask the parents for an explanation, providing it would not put the child at risk.

The standards for registered childminders in both <country-region><place>England and <country-region><place>Wales require me to let Ofsted know of any concerns that I have reported without delay.

If a child tells me that they or another child is being abused, I will:

·         show that I have heard what they are saying, and that I take their allegations seriously

·         encourage the child to talk, but I will not prompt them or ask them leading questions. I will not interrupt when a child is recalling significant events and will not make a child repeat their account

·         explain what actions I must take, in a way that is appropriate to the age and understanding of the child

·         write down what I have been told using exact words where possible

·         make a note of the date, time, place and people who were present at the discussion

·         then report my concerns immediately to the duty social worker who has the experience and responsibility to make an assessment of the situation.

If an allegation is made against me, I will report it to Ofsted and social services, following the Safeguarding Children Board procedures. I will also contact NCMA’s Information Line on 0800 169 4486 for advice and support.

In all instances I will record:

• the child’s full name and address

• the date and time of the record

• factual details of the concern, for example bruising, what the child said, who was present

• details of any previous concerns

• details of any explanations from the parents

• any action taken such as speaking to parents.

It is not my responsibility to attempt to investigate the situation myself.

Ofsted	08456 404040
NCMA Information Line – for help and support for with all areas of childminding, including allegations of child abuse.	0800 169 4486
NCMA Legal advice line – offers free, professional advice to NCMA members on any legal problem related to their childminding business.	01253 777468

Safeguarding Children: The Children Act 1989 and the Early Years Foundation Stage state that “the registered person must comply with local child protection procedures approved by the Local Safeguarding Children Boards and ensures that all adults working and looking after children in the provision are able to put the procedures into practice”.

 

Alcohol and other substances

 

It is my policy to keep children safe when they are in my care.

In order to do this I will ensure that neither I, nor anyone else who has contact with the children whilst at my setting, is under the influence of alcohol or any other substance which may affect our ability to care for children.

I will ensure that anyone who has contact with the children in my care whilst at my setting who is taking medication which may affect their ability to care for children will seek medical advice and only work directly with children if it is confirmed that their ability to look after the children will not be impaired.

Safeguarding and promoting children’s welfare – “The provider must ensure that adults looking after children, or having unsupervised access to them, are suitable to do so”.

Behaviour Policy

All children and adults are treated with equal concern and are made to feel welcome in my home. I aim to offer a quality childcare service for parents and children. I recognise the need to set out reasonable and appropriate limits to help manage the behaviour of children in my care. 

By providing a happy, safe environment, the children in my care will be encouraged to develop social skills to help them be accepted and welcome in society as they grow up.

I do not, and will not, administer physical or any other form of punishment with the intention of causing pain or discomfort, nor any kind of humiliating or hurtful treatment to any child in my care.

I endorse positive discipline as a more effective way of setting boundaries for children.

Procedure

I keep up to date with behaviour management issues and relevant legislation by taking regular training and by reading relevant publications.

Wherever possible I try to meet parents’ requests for the care of their children according to their values and practices. These requirements are discussed and agreed as part of our agreement and contract. These records are revisited and updated during regular reviews with parents.

I expect parents to inform me of any changes in the child’s home circumstances, care arrangements or any other change which may affect the child’s behaviour such as a new baby, parents’ separation, divorce, new partner or any bereavement. All information shared will be kept confidential unless there appears to be a child protection issue.

I offer regular review meetings with parents to discuss their child’s care and any issues or concerns, preferably when the child is not present. If I do not share the same first language as the child’s parent, I will find a way of communicating effectively with them. This may include seeking guidance from the local early years team.

I work together with parents to make sure there is consistency in the way the children are cared for. A consistent approach benefits the child’s welfare and helps ensure that the child is not confused.

I will only physically intervene, and possibly restrain, a child to prevent an accident, such as a child running into the road, or to prevent an injury or damage.

All significant incidents are recorded in an incident book and will be shared and discussed with the parents of the child concerned so that together we can work to resolve any behavioural issues.

Distracting and re-directing children’s activities are used as a way of discouraging unwanted behaviour.

I encourage responsibility by talking to children about choices and their possible consequences.

I aim to be firm and consistent so that children know and feel secure within the boundaries I set.

I will respond positively to children who constantly seek attention or are disruptive.

I will help children maintain their self-esteem by showing I disapprove of their bad behaviour not the child themselves.

If I have concerns about a child’s behaviour which are not being resolved, I will ask for permission from the parents to talk it through with another childcare professional. I may contact the National Childminding Association, the NSPCC, health visitor or the local early years team (or other relevant advice service) for confidential advice. 

Concerns that could identify a particular child are kept confidential and only shared with people who need to know this information.

My house rules include:

·     We take off our outside shoes when we go in to the house to keep the house clean.

·     We do not swear, call each other names, fight or deliberately hurt anyone else.

·     We eat and drink at the table or in the high chair to help keep the house clean and to avoid accidents.

·     We are kind to each other and the pets.

·     We take care of the toys, furniture and other equipment.

Safeguarding and promoting children’s welfare – Providers must have an effective behaviour management policy.

 

Risk Assessment Policy

 

Outdoor and indoor spaces, furniture, equipment and toys, must be safe and suitable for their purpose.

I will conduct a risk assessment and review it regularly, at least once a year and more frequently where the need arises.

I will take all reasonable steps to ensure that hazards to children, both indoors and out, are kept to a minimum.

I have an accident and emergency policy which ensures that adequate safety procedures are in place. This is reviewed regularly and fire drills are practiced monthly with the children.

Outings.

I will always have written parental permission before taking a child on an outing.

I will always carry with me my mobile phone, emergency contacts for children and a full first aid kit.

I will ensure that my car is always road worthy, legal and covered by business insurance. Also, children always use a car seat, booster seat or seat belt suitable for their age and size. Child locks will be used where available.

I will assess the suitability of an outing before I leave and evaluate the potential risks. While on an outing I will constantly assess the environment for potential risk, for example, dog mess, broken glass, syringes, roads and traffic etc.

Babies will be strapped into a pushchair with a 5 point harness. Young children will be encouraged to hold hands or the pushchair. Children will be taught good road safety and encouraged to use the green cross code.

Safeguarding and promoting children’s welfare – The provider must take necessary steps to safeguard and promote the welfare of children

 

Food and drink policy

 

It is my policy that when children are provided with meals, snacks and drinks, in my setting these must be healthy, balanced and nutritious. Those responsible for the preparation and handling of food must be competent to do so.

Procedure

• I will obtain, record and act on information from parents about a child’s dietary requirements.

• Where parents provide meals for their children to eat in my setting I will provide chilled storage for packed lunches and appropriate storage areas for other foodstuffs.

• I will also provide clean and age appropriate crockery and cutlery to enable the children to eat properly.

• Children will be provided with healthy meals and other healthy snacks and drinks as appropriate and recommended by the Food Standards Agency literature.

• Fresh drinking water will be available at all times.

• As a provider of meals and snacks I am aware of my responsibilities under food hygiene legislation. I am registered with the Local Authority Environmental Health Department and they have inspected my premises.

• Baby changing facilities will not be near food preparation areas.

• If there is an outbreak of food poisoning affecting two or more children looked after on my premises I will notify Ofsted as soon as possible but definitely within 14 days of the incident occurring in order to comply with regulations.

• I hold a Level 2 certificate in Food Hygiene

Safeguarding and promoting children’s welfare The provider must promote the good health of the children in their care.

 

Medicines Policy

 

As a childcare provider I will ensure that I implement an effective procedure to meet the individual needs of a child when administering medicines. In order to achieve this I will do the following:

• Keep written records of all medicines administered to children in my care.

• Inform parents when a medicine has been administered including the time and dosage.

• All medicines will be stored appropriately and kept strictly in accordance with the product instructions and in the original container in which it was dispensed.

• I will obtain prior written permission from parents for each and every medicine to be administered before any medication is given.

• I will work in partnership with parents to ensure the correct medication, dosage etc is given.

• If the administration of prescription medicine requires technical/medical knowledge then I will attend training from a qualified health professional. The training should be specific to the child in question.

• If any of my staff are involved in the administration of a prescription medicine that requires technical/medical knowledge then I will ensure that they have attended individual training from a health care professional, specific to the child in question.

• Prescription medication will only be administered to the child it is prescribed for by a doctor, dentist, nurse or pharmacist.

• Non-prescription medication such as pain and fever relief will only be administered with parents’ previous written consent and only when there is a health reason to do so.

• I will never administer medicines containing aspirin to a child under the age of 16 unless they have been prescribed by a doctor.

• If I do not administer the medicine whilst the child is in my care I will inform parents of who will be responsible for the administration of medicines to their child.

• If I have a child in my care with long-term medical needs then I will ensure that I and any co-workers have sufficient information about the child’s medical condition and will work in partnership with parents to assist the administration of any prescribed medication.

Safeguarding and promoting children’s welfare –The provider must promote good health of the children, take necessary steps to prevent infection, and take appropriate action when they are ill.

 

Illness and infectious disease policy

It is my policy to keep children safe when they are in my care, promote good health and take necessary steps to prevent the spread of infection within my childcare setting.

I will promote hand-washing in warm soapy water before eating or handling food and after using the toilet.     

I will promote the use of tissues for children with coughs and minor colds.

All spillages of bodily fluids will be cleaned up immediately and I will wear disposable gloves for the changing of nappies. I will discard the gloves after each change.

I will ensure that any animals on the premises are safe to be around children and do not pose a health risk.

All children in my setting who are excluded due to having an illness or an infectious disease such as a severe cold or stomach upset will not be allowed to return until they have been free from illness for 48 hours. This is in order to minimise the risk of the transmission of an infection to other children, myself or members of my household.

If a child arrives at my setting with a disease or illness I believe to be infectious or that poses a risk to the other children in the setting or myself I will expect the child not to attend my setting until they have been well for the recommended period of time.

I will inform the parents of the other children in my setting if there a child I care for has a diagnosed infectious disease.

Procedure

If there is a child in my setting who becomes ill during the childminded period, or whom I believe has an infectious illness or disease I will carry out the following:

• contact the parents as agreed to arrange for the immediate collection of the child

• ensure the child is excluded from my setting until they have been well for 48 hours, or in accordance with Health Authority guidelines.

If I believe a child in my setting is suffering from a notifiable disease, identified as such in the Public Health (Infectious Diseases) Regulations 1988, I will act on advice given by the Health Protection Agency and inform Ofsted of any action taken.

Safeguarding and promoting children’s welfare The provider must promote the good health of the children, take necessary steps to prevent the spread of infection, and take appropriate action when they are ill.