Children
Access Policy
To ensure the safety of the children in the care of Edgeworth Child Care Centre.
To also ensure lawful access by parents.
Children’s Services Regulation’s 2004
Staff
Families
Child
Management
Staff must abide by the judicial decisions of the law (see family law policy). Staff must ensure that any parent not subject to an order can have access to his or her child at any time during the hours the child is at the centre.
Information in regards to access will be updated on an ongoing basis at mutually convenient time.
Any child that the Authorised Supervisor [Director] knows to have been denied contact with a child by a court order affecting the custody or residence of, or contact with the child is excluded from Edgeworth Child Care Centre at all times.
The following will be implemented:
· The original court order affecting the custody residence of or contact will be sighted before restrictions are placed on the parent. A copy of the original will be taken and signed by both the parent & Authorised supervisor. This will be kept in the child’s file.
· Staff will be informed as soon as possible.
· A parent denied contact with a court order would be requested to leave if he or she enters the centre’s grounds.
· If the non custodial parent refuses to leave the centre, the police and custodial parent will be notified.
· The Staff will remove all children to an area where they will not be affected by the situation.
· If the non custodial parent becomes threatening or violent and or tries to forcibly remove the child, staff are not to interfere, the welfare of the staff and children are of the utmost importance.
· If the non custodial parent leaves the centre, then details will be taken in regards of transport.
· Police, DoCS & custodial parent are to be notified the non custodial parent has left.
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
Family Court of Australia www.familycourt.gov.au
Retrieved http://www.familycourt.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/FCOA/home/family_law/legislation/
July 29 2010
The policy will be reviewed annually. Review will be conducted by management, employees, parents and any interested parties.
Reviewed: 29 07 2010 Date for next review: 07 2011
Arrival and Departure Policy
To ensure that all children are in an environment where they can arrive and depart the centre in a safe and secure manner.
Children Services regulations 2004,Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 and Regulations 2001.
Child
Families
Staff
The following guidelines must be adhered to at all times to ensure the safety of the children
Arrival:
· It is essential on arrival that all children are signed IN by a parent or responsible adult in order for parents to be eligible for Childcare Benefit. This also assists staff in the event of evacuation of the Centre. This the parent/caregivers your responsibility.
· A staff member will greet and receive the child at all times
· Each child has their own locker for personal belongings. A sign is posted above the lockers nominating a number / symbol for each child.
Departure:
· Authorised Supervisors [Director] are to ensure that the authorised pick-up list for each child is kept up to date.
· No child will be released into the care of any persons not known to staff. If staff do not know the person by appearance, the person must be able to produce some form of identification to prove that they are the person authorised to collect the child on the enrolment form.
· Parents must give prior notice where the person collecting the child is someone other than those mentioned on the enrolment form, e.g. in an emergency situation. The person nominated by the parent must be able to produce some form of identification.
· Children are not to be released into the care of persons not authorised to collect the child, e.g. court orders concerning custody and access.
· Parents must give prior notice of any variation in the persons picking up the child. If notice is not given, and staff cannot contact the parent, the child must not be released into the care of that person.
· If the person collecting the child appears to be intoxicated, or under the influence of drugs, and staff feel that the person is unfit to take responsibility for the child, the staff are to bring the matter to the person’s attention before releasing the child into their care. Wherever possible, such discussion is to take place without the child being present. Staff are to suggest that they contact the other parent or emergency numbers from the enrolment form, inform them of the situation and request they collect the child as soon as possible. If the person refuses to allow the child to be collected by another authorised person, staff are to inform the police of the circumstances, the person’s name and vehicle registration number. Staff cannot prevent a parent from collecting a child, but do have a moral obligation to persuade a parent to seek alternative arrangements if they feel the parent is in an unfit state to accept responsibility for the child.
· It is essential on departure that all children are signed OUT by a parent or responsible adult in order for parents to be eligible for Childcare Benefit. This also assists staff in knowing who has left the centre
· At the end of each day 2 staff members check the premises to ensure that no child remains on the premises after the centre closes.
Children Services Regulations 2004
CCMS Child Care Services Handbook 2009 -2010
The policy will be reviewed annually. Review will be conducted by management, employees, parents and any interested parties.
Reviewed: 27 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Checking the Premises at the end of the day Policy
Aim
To ensure that all children have left the services at the end if the day.
Children Services Regulations 2004,
Child
Families
Staff
The Authorise Supervisor [Director] will ensure that at the end of each day all beds and all areas of the premises, including indoors and outdoors, are thoroughly checked by 2 primary contact staff to ensure that no child remains on the premise after the service closes for the day.
The following procedure will occur at all times:
Two Primary Contact staff will:
· Check the sign in/out sheets to see if all children have been signed out.
· Contact all parents of children who have not signed out to ensure they are aware of where their child is.
· Thoroughly check all beds and all areas of the premises, indoor and outdoor.
· Sign the bottom of the sign in/out sheet and ‘end of day inspection sheet’ to confirm that all children have left the premises.
· If a child has not been picked up refer to “Uncollected child policy and procedure”.
Children Services Regulations 2004
The policy will be reviewed annually. Review will be conducted by management, employees, parents and any interested parties.
Reviewed: 27 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Child Health Policy
The centre aims to promote a healthy environment in which children will grow and learn about the world around them. The application of preventative measures through an infection control process aims to prevent the spread of infections and will be followed by all people in the child care centre at all times.
Children’s Services Regulation 2004, Occupational Health & Safety Act 2000 and Regulations 2001
Who is affected by this policy
Child
Staff
Families
Management
Hygiene
· Hand washing is considered to be the most effective way of controlling infection in the centre. Caregivers and children should wash their hands:
- When arriving at the centre to reduce the introduction of germs.
- Before all clean tasks e.g. handling and preparing food and eating.
- After all dirty tasks e.g. nappy changing, toileting, cleaning up faeces, vomit or blood, wiping a nose, playing outside, handling animals.
- After removing gloves
- Before and after giving a child medication
- After giving first aid
- Before going home to prevent taking germs home.
· Nappy changing will be done only in the nappy change area which will be properly stocked with paper towels, towelettes, plastic bags, fresh nappies, clean clothes, rubbish bin with sealed lid lined with plastic bag. The procedure for nappy changing will be displayed in the nappy change area.
· The centre uses disposable nappies.
· The centre will ensure that toilets and hand washing facilities are easily accessible to children. Children will be encouraged to flush toilets and wash hands after use.
· Staff will use separate cloths or tissues to wipe different children’s faces and noses. Tissues will be disposed of immediately after wiping a child’s nose.
· Each child will have their own bedding which will be supplied by the family.
· The centre will wash mouthed toys daily using warms water and soap, and dry in the sun, rotate toys to allow for washing and use individual toy bags for babies, clean books by wiping with moist cloth and drying, clean storage areas weekly.
· Surfaces will be cleaned with detergent after each activity and all surfaces cleaned thoroughly daily. Floor in the babies and toddlers rooms will be washed each day.
· Each child will be provided with their own drinking and eating utensils at each mealtime. These utensils will be washed after each use. Staff will encourage children not to use drinking or eating utensils which have been used by another child or dropped on the floor.
· Food will be prepared; kept and served hygienically.
· Food preparation facilities will be maintained according to Children’s Services Regulation 2004 requirements.
· The Centre will ensure it meets all requirements for food handling premises in accordance with the FSANZ Food Safety Code.
· The rules of hygiene and dental care will be included in the child’s program and staff will initiate discussion about these subjects with groups and individual children at appropriate times.
· Information on hygiene and dental care principles and practices will be displayed in the reception area and drawn to the attention of all parents on a regular basis.
· No alcohol or unlawful substances will be consumed on the premises of the centre at any time when the service is being provided to the children
· No smoking of any substance will be smoked on any part of the premises of the centre at any time when the service is being provided to the children
Sources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
Food Standards Australia New Zealand www.foodstandards.gov.au
Retrieved http://www.foodstandards.gov.au/foodstandards/foodstandardscode/ 29 July 2010
Health & Safety in Children’s Centres 2nd edtion 2003
Better Health Channel www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au
Retrieved http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/hl_safety?open 29 July 2010
Review
The policy will be reviewed annually. Review will be conducted by management, employees, parents and any interested parties.
Reviewed: 29 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Child Orientation Policy
Aim
At Edgeworth Child Care Centre we believe orientation is an important process where staff are able to get important information about the new child’s needs and those of the family. This process helps to make the transition from home to care as smooth as possible with the aim to maintain continuity between home and the centre, which helps the child adjust to the new setting.
Children’s services Regulations 2004, Quality Practices Guide 1st edition 2005
Child
Staff
Family
Management
Our centre provides an orientation process for new children and families to familiarize them with the daily routine and activities. Also for the parents to reassure them that most of the children do settle in quickly to their new environment.
The Director will arrange for the new child to attend the centre (together with parents/s or guardian/s) to visit and meet the staff, and familiarize with the environment. The children may participate in the activities if they so desire. A number of young children prefer to just watch, rather than do. Positive interactions at this time (between parents, staff and the child) are important for the children to build positive attitudes to the centre environment. Staff are aware that some children respond to new experiences faster than others and will adapt to the situation.
At this time, the daily timetable and program will be discussed, as well as routines and any special requirements for the child that may need to be accommodated. Parent/s will also be encouraged to send any special comfort items (teddy etc) to help the child in the initial settling in period. Parents will also be invited to ring and check on their child at any time if there are any concerns.
Part of this orientation visit is also to explain/collect the required documentation for the child (enrolment form, birth certificate, immunisation record and medicare number). Staff will also explain fee payment and communication (newsletters, pockets, communication box etc), what the child will need, the importance of labelling personal items and also shown the parent library where they can access the centre policies and other resources.
Staff will also discuss how best to tailor the child’s settling in period – with some parents choosing to gradually build up to a full day so the child is reassured that the parents will return to collect them. Staff will encourage parents to say goodbye when dropping off – and reassured that if the child remains distressed over a period of time, that staff will contact them. Parents are able to stay as long as needed to reassure their child, but sometimes its easier for the staff to settle the child if the parents come earlier on collection to spend time with their child – rather than do this at drop off time.
Parents will be kept informed about how their child is settling in on collection and are welcome to discuss any aspects with the director at a convenient time.
Information on the centre child orientation policy will be available in different languages when required.
Children Services Regulations 2004
National Childcare Accreditation Council: Quality Practices Guide 1st ed.2005, www.ncac.gov.au Retrieved http://www.ncac.gov.au/ 29 July 2010
Putting Children First Issue 16
Retrieved http://www.ncac.gov.au/pcf/ACCA_Enrolment_and_Orientation_Dec05.pdf
29 July 2010
Reviewed: 29 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Aim
The centre believes it has a responsibility to all children attending the centre to defend their right to care and protection. To support this right the centre will follow the procedures covered within this policy, when dealing with any reportable allegations, to ensure the protection of all children attending the centre.
The centre believes it also has a responsibility to its employees to defend their right to confidentiality unless allegations against them are substantiated. The centre will ensure all groups affected by this policy are aware of the roles and responsibilities of children’s service in relation to child protection.
The centre will implement preventative procedures which protect and educate children, staff, parents and community members.
The centre will ensure that all requirements of child protection legislation are being met.
Under the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 there are provisions where children’s services staff have child protection concerns about a children. Children’s services play an important role in recognising and reporting child abuse and neglect and in promoting the safety, welfare and well being of children. This legislation states that all people who hold a management position, or who are employees delivering children’s services, are legally obliged to report any reasonable grounds to suspect that a child is at risk of harm.
This means that if you work in children’s services you are a mandatory reporter. It also includes those involved in the management of a service.
· The Ombudsman’s act 1974 (with the relevant child protection amendment in the reprinted version)
· The Commission for Children and Young People Act 1998
· Child Protection (Prohibited Employment) Act 1998
· Children’s Services Regulation 2004
· Children Legislation Amendment (Wood Inquiry Recommendations) Act 2009 No 13
Who is affected by this policy
· Parents
· Children
· Staff
· Management
· Volunteers
· Students
· Ancillary staff
· Service visitors
· General Community
Protection Helpline.
· Promote the safety, welfare and well being of children and young people at your service.
· Where concerns of harm do not meet the significant harm threshold, be aware of referring
agencies for families
· Be aware of the Mandatory Reporter Guide
· Assist in supporting children and families in partnership with NSW Government Human
Services Community Services and other government agencies.
It is the responsibility of the person suspecting the risk of child protection to ensure that a report is made.
· Ensure that all employees, members of staff or carers are:
- clear about their roles and responsibilities under current Acts and Regulations
- aware of their obligations to immediately report to the Child Protection Hotline a child that they suspect is at risk of significant harm, and procedures for reporting,
- Aware of indicators when a child may be at risk of harm or significant harm.
· Provide training and development for all employees, members of staff or carers in the recognition and reporting of suspected risk of harm.
· Provide reporting procedures and professional standards for care and protection work generally.
· Conduct the Working with Children Check.
· Report to the NSW Ombudsman any reportable allegations and convictions made against an employee, member of staff or carer and ensure that they are investigated by the Head of Agency with the appropriate action to be taken in relation to finding.
· Notify the Commission for Children and young People details of employees, members of staff or carers against whom relevant disciplinary proceedings have been completed, or of persons whose employment has been rejected primarily because of a risk identified in employment screening processes.
· Enable employees, members of staff or carers access to Acts, Regulations and procedures where this is necessary for them to fulfill their obligations.
Child Protection Helpline
· Receive and assess reports of children who are at risk of significant harm.
· Investigate and assess reports where there is a likelihood of risk of significant harm to the child or a class of children.
· In cases involving child sexual abuse or serious physical abuse, plan, conduct and manage, with Police (and NSW Health where a medical examination and/or counseling or support are needed), joint investigation, through Joint Investigation Response Teams (JIRT).
· Provide, arrange and request care and / or support services for children and families.
· Informs reporting agencies of the progress and outcomes of assessments and investigations as permitted by law, and as appropriate.
Child Wellbeing Unit
· To help and identify whether a case meets the new threshold of risk of significant harm
NSW Ombudsman’s Office
· Monitors the investigation of and in some cases investigates reportable allegations made against employees in government and non-government agencies, such as children’s services.
· The Ombudsman must be notified of all allegations of abuse or neglect of a child by one of the employees.
· For the purposes of the Ombudsman’s legislation an employee includes someone who is helping out as a volunteer.
The Commission for Children and Young People
· Provides guidelines relating to employment screening for child related employment and maintains database of relevant disciplinary proceedings.
Implementation
· Strategies for creating a child protective environment will be adopted and followed at the Centre.
· Employer and employee responsibilities in relation to reportable allegations are included in staff handbooks. These responsibilities are highlighted to new staff members at their induction. (Refer to information sheet on “Notification of those involved in Children’s Services ” –in this policy).
· Staff members will be encouraged to attend training on child protection.
· Any reportable allegations in respect of a child attending the child care service made against the head of agency or a staff member must be reported to the Ombudsman Office within 30 days after the day on which the allegation was made.
Indicators of Abuse
General indicators of abuse and neglect
· marked delay between injury and seeking medical assistance
· history of injury
· the child gives some indication that the injury did not occur as stated
· the child tells you someone has hurt him/her
· the child tells you about someone he/she knows who has been hurt
· someone (relative, friend, acquaintance, sibling) tells you that the child may have been abused
Indicators of Neglect in children
· poor standard of hygiene leading to social isolation
· scavenging or stealing food
· extreme longing for adult affection
· lacking a sense of genuine interaction with others
· acute separation anxiety
· self comforting behaviors, e.g. rocking, sucking
· delay in development milestones
· untreated physical problems
Indicators of Neglect in parents and caregivers
· failure to provide adequate food, shelter, clothing, medical attention, hygiene or leaving the child inappropriately without supervision
· inability to respond emotionally to the child
· child abandonment
· depriving or withholding physical contact
· failure to provide psychological nurturing
· treating one child differently to the others
Indicators of Physical Abuse in children
· facial, head and neck bruising
· lacerations and welts
· explanations are not consistent with injury
· bruising or marks that may show the shape of an object
· bite marks or scratches
· multiple injuries or bruises
· ingestion of poisonous substances, alcohol or drugs
· sprains, twists, dislocations
· bone fractures
· burns and scalds
Indicators of Physical Abuse in parents and caregivers
· direct admissions from parents about fear of hurting their children
· family history of violence
· history of their own maltreatment as a child
· repeated visits for medical assistance
Indicators of Emotional Abuse in children
· feeling of worthlessness about them
· inability to value others
· lack of trust in people and expectations
· extreme attention seeking behaviors
· other behavioral disorders (disruptiveness, aggressiveness, bullying)
Indicators of Emotional Abuse in parents and caregivers
· constant criticism, belittling, teasing of a child or ignoring or withholding praise and affection
· excessive or unreasonable demands
· persistent hostility, severe verbal abuse, rejection and scapegoating
· belief that a particular child is bad or “evil”
· using inappropriate physical or social isolation as punishment
· exposure to domestic violence
Indicators of Sexual Abuse in children
· they describe sexual acts
· direct or indirect disclosures
· age inappropriate behaviour and/or persistent sexual behaviour
· self destructive behaviour
· regression in development achievements
· child being in contact with a suspected or know perpetrator of sexual assault
· bleeding from the vagina or anus
· injuries such as tears to the genitalia
Indicators of Sexual Abuse in parents, caregivers of anyone else associated with the child
· exposing the child to sexual behaviours of others
· suspected of or charged with child sexual abuse
· inappropriate jealousy regarding age appropriate development of independence from the family
· coercing the child to engage in sexual behaviour with other children
· verbal threats of sexual abuse
· exposing the child to pornography
Indicators of Domestic Violence in children
· show aggressive behaviour
· develop phobias & insomnia
· experience anxiety
· show systems of depression
· have diminished self esteem
· demonstrate poor academic performance and problem solving skills
· have reduced social competence skills including low levels of empathy
· show emotional distress
· have physical complaints
What constitutes significant harm?
A child or young person is at risk of significant harm if the circumstances that are causing concern for the safety, welfare or well being of the child or young person are present to a significant state.
This means the concern is sufficiently serious to warrant a response by a statutory authority (such as NSW Police Force or Community Services) irrespective of a family’s consent.
What is significant is not minor or trivial and may reasonably be expected to produce a substantial and demonstrably adverse impact on the child or young person’s safety, welfare or wellbeing, or in the case of an unborn, after the child’s birth.
The significance can result from a single act or omission or an accumulation of these.
Concerns don’t meet the Risk of significant Harm Threshold.
Where concerns of harm do not meet the significant harm threshold, the centre should offer and coordinate assistance or make a referral to other services, using normal referral networks. Services may also be located through the Family Referral Services or through Human Services Net (HSNet) ServiceLink.
The consent of the family should be sought before making referrals.
Suspecting a Child is at Risk of Significant Harm
Staff are to access the Mandatory Reporter Guide (www.keepthemsafe.nsw.gov.au) to decide if any of the following conditions are present to a significant risk:
- Physical abuse
- Neglect
- Supervision
- Physical shelter/environment
- Food
- Medical care
- Mental health care
- Education
- Parent/carer substance abuse
- Parent/carer mental health
- Parent/carer domestic violence
If a staff member has reasonable grounds to suspect risk of significant harm, they are to use the Mandatory Reporter Guide to assess whether their concerns meet the threshold of risk of significant harm.
If there is an immediate danger to the child the police and/or the Child Protection Hotline should be contacted directly.
Reasonable grounds refers to the need to have an objective basis for suspecting that a child or young person may be at risk of significant harm based on:
- First hand observation of the child, young person or family
- What the child, young person, parent or other person has disclosed
- What can be reasonably be inferred based on professional training and/ or experience.
When the use of the Mandatory Reporter Guide advises risk of significant harm, mandatory reporter must make a report to the Child Protection Helpline.
Documentation
It is essential that the centre maintains well kept records to prepare and support its ability to make a report to Child Protection Helpline. Ensure that you have procedures that outline the purpose and format of record keeping, the retention of records for appropriate periods and the procedure for making a report.
When notifying the Child Protection Helpline it is important to have as much information as possible available to give to the Helpline.
The helpline will ask for the following information;
Child’s Information
- Name of the child or young person (or alias) or other means of identifying them
- Age and date of birth (or approximation)
- If the child is Indigenous
- Cultural background of the child, language spoken, religion and other cultural factors
- Name, age of other household children or young people
- Address of child and family
- If the child has a disability – nature/type, severity, impact on functioning
- Is the child/young person subject of an Apprehended Violence order?
- Is the child or young person under the care of the minister or residing in out-of-home care?
Family information
- Name, age of parents/carer and household adults
- Home and/or mobile phone number
- Cultural background of parents, languages spoken, religion and other cultural factors
- Information about parental risk factors and how they link to child’s risk of harm
- Domestic violence
- Alcohol or other drug misuse
- Unmanaged mental health
- Intellectual or other disability
- Protective factors and family strengths
- Non-offending carers’ capacity to protect child
- Any previous suspicious death of a child or young person in the household?
- Is the carer/parent pregnant?
- Is the parent/carer subject of an Apprehended Violence order?
- Description of the family structure.
- Name, age, gender of siblings. Do siblings live with the child or young operson?
Reporters Details
- Name, centre name, address, phone and email details
- Position
- Reasons for reporting today
- Nature of contact with child or family
- Nature of ongoing role with child or family (include frequency, duration and type)
- If report is being made by someone else in the agency, name of the agency worker who sourced the report
Other information
- If parent knows of the report and their response
- If child or young person knows about the report and their views
- Information related to worker safety issues
- Outcome of mandatory reporters guide
Once a report is made to the Child Protection Helpline no further report needs to be made unless new information comes to hand.
Notification of Abuse
When a mandatory reporter has responsible suspicion of abuse they need to contact the Helpline and provide them with the necessary details. It is advisable to have all documentation needed available at the time of the call to ensure that all information can be given at once.
Before making a report, mandatory reporters should consult the Mandatory Reporters Guide to assess whether a child or young person is at risk of significant harm.
The Child Protection Helpline phone number for mandatory reporters is
133627
It is important that when making a notification that the notifier asks the following questions in relation to notification;
· Name of person at Helpline who you spoke to.
· What the next step in the process is to be.
· What confirmation will be sent to confirm the report has been made.
· Is there any further action you as the notifier need to take?
Notification of those involved in Children’s Services
Any person involved in the service is a mandatory reporter if they suspect someone involved in the service of abusing children. Any incident involving another person involved in the service must report the incident or suspicion to the Child Protection Helpline.
The same details must be provided to the Helpline as previously listed.
Your concerns should be raised with the service management / Licensee or Authorised Supervisor as part of the process of notification.
Each service needs to develop a written procedure to ensure that staff are aware of the alternatives if it is the service management / Licensee or Authorised Supervisor who is the person that is being notified to the Helpline. ALL staff are mandated to report suspicion of abuse even if it involves the service management / Licensee or Authorised Supervisor.
As well as making the notification to the Helpline the service should contact their Children’s Services Adviser from the Department to inform them of the incident as it may also be a breach of the regulations and need to be investigated as a licensing matter.
Confidentiality
It is important that any notification remains confidential, as it is vitally important to remember that no confirmation of any allegation can be made until the matter is investigated.
Safeguards for reporters
Reports to Community Services are confidential and the reporter’s identity is protected by law if the report is made in good faith. The law offers the following protections:
- The report shall not be held to be breach of professional etiquette or ethics or a departure from acceptable standards of professional conduct
- No liability for defamation can be incurred because of making of report
- The report, or its contents, is not admissible in any proceedings as evidence against the person who made the report
- A person cannot be compelled by a court to provide the report or give any evidences as to its contents
- A report is exempt document under the Freedom of Information Act 1989.
If law enforcement agencies require the identity of the reporter in order to investigate serious offences alleged to have been committed against children or young people, the identity of the reporter may be released to the police.
Disclosure
At no time should the notifier inform the individual they have made the notification about that the notification has been made. This is to ensure that the matter can be investigated without prior knowledge and contamination of evidence.
Further Information
It is important that all staff are aware that when dealing with children involved in any issue relating to abuse that they are not questioned around the abuse as this may hinder the formal investigation into the situation. Additional information from children should not be coerced from children, simply keep record of their disclosure that can be used as part of the formal investigation.
Information Exchange
Staff will exchange information that relates to a child or young person’s safety, welfare or wellbeing, whether or not the child or young person is known to Community Services and whether or not the child or young person consents to the information exchange under Chapter 16A of the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 when required.
Chapter 16A also requires prescribed bodies to take reasonable steps to coordinate decision-making and the delivery of services regarding children and young people.
Notification to the Ombudsman
Special procedures are in place to deal with allegations of reportable conduct or convictions against employees of all government and certain non government agencies in NSW.
The Ombudsman Act requires the Head of Agency (Licensee / Committee members / General Manager) to notify the Ombudsman within 30 days of becoming aware of any reportable allegations or conviction made against an employee involved in the provision of children’s services. The Ombudsman needs to be informed of any reportable allegation regardless of the outcome and the confirmation or non-confirmation of the allegation, unless the investigation by the agency considers the allegation to be a trivial or negligible application of physical force.
Visit www.ombo.nsw.gov.au for any forms required.
Some matters are notifiable to the Ombudsman as an allegation of reportable conduct, but are only reportable to the Child Protection Helpline if there are also current concerns that a child or young person is at significant risk.
Allegations against those involved in the service
It is important that those responsible for the service ensure that adequate support is available for those involved in the service that allegations are made against and have been investigated. It is important to ensure that they are given the necessary and appropriate support needed to get through the process.
Definitions
Reportable Allegations: any sexual offence, or sexual misconduct, committed against, with or in the presence of a child (including a child pornography offence), any assault, ill treatment or neglect of a child, any behaviour that causes psychological harm to a child.
Employee of Agency: There are two groups of people who are considered to be employees and who may have reportable allegations made against them or be the subject of a reportable conviction.
These two groups are:
· any employee of the agency, whether or not employed in connection with any work or activities of the agency that relates to children, and
· any individual engaged by the agency to provide services to children (including in the capacity as a volunteer).
- contractors
- sub-contractors
- volunteers
- work experience participants, students on placements, eg TAFE, secondary or tertiary students
Head of Agency: the Licensee/Owner of the Centre or nominated person
Further Knowledge
Further information can be obtained through;
Child Protection Help Line 133627
Child Wellbeing Unit
Human Services www.hsnet.nsw.gov.au/login/Servicelink.aspx
Association of Children’s Welfare Agencies www.acwa.asn.au
www.keepthemsafe.nsw.gov.au
As well as obtaining relevant resources for the service it is vitally important that those involved in children’s services are given adequate training in identifying child abuse as well as the process for reporting it.
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
The Commission for Children and Young People www.kids.nsw.gov.au Retrieved http://kids.nsw.gov.au/search/index.cfm 29 July 2010
NSW Ombudsman Child Protection in the Workplace - Responding to allegations against employees. www.nswombudsman.nsw.gov.au
Retrieved http://www.ombo.nsw.gov.au/ 29 July 2010
Keep them Safe www.keepthemsafe.nsw.gov.au
Retrieved http://www.keepthemsafe.nsw.gov.au/reporting_children_at_risk 29 July 2010
Child Wellbeing & Child Protection NSW Interagency Guidelines
Reviewed: 29 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Parents
Staff
Management
AT Edgeworth Child Care Centre WE ENCOURAGE POSITIVE, CO-OPERATIVE BEHAVIOUR THROUGH:
· Establishing trust and confidence between adult and child.
· Considering the stage of development of each child.
· Considering the interests, concerns and abilities of the individual child.
· Showing sensitivity to the child’s background and current home situations.
· Examining the reason behind the behaviour that suggested a need for disciplinary action.
· Getting down to the child’s level to establish and maintain eye contact.
· Using language that is positive, clear and developmentally appropriate for the child in question.
· Being consistent with behaviour expectations.
· Setting limits and reminding children of them regularly or whenever necessary.
· Involving the children in the setting of limits and explaining as to why a certain type of behaviour is unacceptable eg: other children and staff safety.
· Encouraging the children to show sympathy for children experiencing difficulties.
· Guidance and discipline to encourage individuality and confidence of children so as to enhance their self-esteem.
· Offering the children clear alternatives to help them develop their ability to make decisions and direct themselves.
· Positive modelling by adults. Eg: “sand stays in the sand pit” rather than “don’t throw sand”, and by showing the child how to dig in the sand.
· Discussing with parents the behaviour management policy and seek their assistance for solutions should the need arise.
THE USE OF PHYSICAL FORCE, EMBARRASSMENT, SARCASM, PROLONGED PUNISHMENT, IS NEVER PRACTISED.
WHEN PREVENTION DOESN’T WORK:
Try to distract/diffuse a situation, giving the child an out.
· Use “do” instead of “don’t”, giving a simple explanation. (if the child persists use the word “stop” reinforced with the stop hand signal and explain positively what they should be doing).
· Always talk about the behaviour being inappropriate, not the child personally (eg. Avoid saying, bad, naughty, silly etc.).
· Use a firm, calm manner, indicating what you expect from the child, presenting it to the child as a choice wherever possible - “if you choose to do “X” …………… I will have to ……………………”. Lowering your voice gains attention. Shouting may scare the child.
· Allow time for the child to comply with the request.
· Be clear about the consequences for the child, e.g., denial of privileges, removal from situations, help clean up the “mess”.
· Follow through with consequences!
· If it becomes necessary, staff will gently remove the disruptive child from a group or activity until such time as the child has settled down and able to return to the group or activity.
If the need arises to hold a child, the staff member will do so at their own discretion so as not to put themselves, the child or other children at risk of harm. Suggested method for holding a child is to sit on a chair or the floor with the child held firmly in front of them (the child’s back towards the staff member). Speak calmly and quietly to attempt to diffuse the situation quickly. Holding a child should be used only as a last resort.
When it’s all over - it is essential to restore a positive relationship between you and the child, before either of you go home.
Keep the Director aware of on-going situations, keep a written record of continuing incidents.
ANTI-SOCIAL: PHYSICAL BEHAVIOURS
Staff should explain to children that biting, hitting, pushing and kicking is not acceptable. If a child wants to hit or punch then they can use the playdough or punching bag to take out aggression. If the child wants to kick they can kick a ball.
With older children, encourage them to use problem-solving skills and to verbalise feelings instead.
If a child becomes aggressive remove them from the activity (suitable distance so as not to hurt other children); stay with them until they quieten down. Comfort when rage subsides. Some good activities if a child is aggressive are play dough, clay, hammering, bowling etc.
Always look for reasons behind belligerent behaviours and address the issues as a part of further planning (eg. Biting could be a result of teething or not having the communication skills to tell a peer that they are taking their toy. Kicking could be a part of power play etc.) make sure you focus attention on the child who has been hurt. Children who have hurt another child can often be encouraged to help comfort or assist the hurt child (get a tissue, hold the ice pack etc.)
WHEN MANAGEMENT IS NOT WORKING:
· Discuss problems with staff - where appropriate (confidentiality is observed).
· Written methods are implemented.
· Difficulties are discussed with parents, to discuss appropriate strategies.
· Early Intervention professionals are consulted with parental permission.
· Staff to implement program directives from Early Intervention.
· Other professionals and support groups to be consulted where necessary.
GUIDELINES FOR DIRECTOR INTERVENTION
If a child’s behaviour is continually anti-social or aggressive and is putting other children’s or staff’s health at risk, then the following procedures will be followed:
· The child’s parents will be continually informed of the incidents.
· A time will be made where it is appropriate for the child’s carer and parent/s to discuss the issues.
· A behaviour management program will be implemented and carried out by carers and parents. External help may be sought if necessary.
· This program will be continually evaluated by carers, Director and parents.
· If the behaviour does not appear to be improving the Director may refer the parents to a support network (eg. Inclusion Support Unit etc.)
· It may be necessary for the parent/s to collect their child early if other children or staff are put at risk of harm.
· If after a reasonable period of time the child’s behaviour is not improving, the Director and staff will consult with parents in supporting them to find a more appropriate service.
Children’s and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 www.kids.nsw.gov.au Retrieved http://kids.nsw.gov.au/search/index.cfm?pageNumber=3&action=search&dspSearch=Children’s and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 &sModuleFilter=&sSortBy=relevancy 29 July 2010
Quality Practices Guide 2005 1st Edition www.ncac.gov.au Retrieved http://www.ncac.gov.au/pcf/Behaviour_guidance_Mar08.pdf 29 July 2010
Children’s Services Regulation 2004
Raising Children Network www.raisingchildren.net.au Retrieved http://raisingchildren.net.au/articles/fighting.html 29 July 2010
Retrieved http://raisingchildren.net.au/articles/preventing_fights.html 29 July 2010
Retrieved http://raisingchildren.net.au/articles/handling_fights.html 29 July 2010
The policy will be reviewed annually. Review will be conducted by management, employees, parents and any interested parties.
Reviewed: 29 July 2010 Date for next review: 29 July 2011
Clothing Policy
Aim
Edgeworth Child Care Centre understands the way children are dressed for care can affect them in many ways and impact on their participation through out the day, their safety and comfort. The type of clothing children wear also assist or inhibit their independence at routines. Staff will respect children’s individual choices and also facilitate any cultural practices with in safety limits.
Children Services Regulation 2004, Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001
Children
Staff
Parents
Management
Implementation
Children:
· Children should be clothed in clothes which allow them to explore and play freely and not restrict them using equipment while at play
· Clothing should also allow easy access for toileting ie. elasticised trousers, track pants - instead of buttons, zips, belts etc.
· Children will be encouraged to use aprons for messy play and art experiences to protect clothing. For this reason it is important to not send the children in their best clothes.
· Children should be appropriately protected from the sun during out door play- please refer to sun safety policy for details on appropriate hats and clothing.
· Children’s clothing should accommodate weather conditions i.e. be loose and cool in summer to prevent over-heating and warm enough for cold weather – including outdoor play. At all times staff will monitor children to ensure they are appropriately dressed for all weather
· Children should have appropriate footwear that enables them to play comfortably and not cause safety concerns i.e. thongs, clogs or backless shoes have a trip factor and do not allow children to use equipment safely.
· Comfortable and non restrictive clothing is important at sleep time to promote your child’s comfort at this time of the day.
· The centre will maintain a collection of suitable spare clothing should it be needed
· All clothing and belongings must be clearly labeled with the child’s name
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
The Cancer Council www.cancercouncil.com.au
Retrieved http://www.cancercouncil.com.au/editorial.asp?pageid=2 29 July 2010
National Child Care Accreditation Council: Quality Practices Guide 1st edition 2005 www.ncac.gov.au Retrieved
http://www.ncac.gov.au/factsheets/qias_factsheet_15_children’s_clothing%20.pdf
29 July 2010
WorkCover NSW www.workcover.nsw.gov.au Retrieved http://www.workcover.nsw.gov.au/Pages/SearchResults.aspx?k=clothing&start1=31 29 July 2010
The policy will be reviewed annually. Review will be conducted by management, employees, parents and any interested parties.
Reviewed: 29 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Comfortable sleep/rest for Children Policy
Aim
Edgeworth Child Care Centre believe that sleep and rest time play an important part in a child’s growth and development, so we encourage all children to have at least a short period of rest. The centre makes provision so that each child may do so. The routine provides for time during the day for rest/sleep or quiet activity. However we also accommodate individual needs for rest outside this time.
Who is affected by this policy
Child
Staff
Families
Management
Implementation
At Edgeworth Child Care Centre we acknowledge the individual needs of families and their children in regards to rest and sleep. We seek to work together to effectively cater for your child’s needs.
Parents are to advise staff at enrolment of any special patterns or cultural practices that your child has which will enable us to maintain consistency and continuity with practices at home. It is also important to update this information throughout your child’s time in care or as special circumstances arise – e.g. your child had a bad night and may need to go to sleep earlier; your child slept in and may not need a sleep…. You can do this verbally or in the communication book.
Staff endeavor to ensure sleep and rest routines are positive experiences. This is achieved by encouraging children to bring a favorite toy or other comforters, familiar bedding as well as the use of soft music. Staff interactions also facilitate a positive atmosphere. Staff will also provide feedback about your child’s sleep patterns via the day book and verbally as required.
Staff will not force a child to sleep nor will they deprive a child from sleeping.
Please provide bedding for your child as per policy on bed linen.
Current information on sleep equipment and safe sleeping practices from recognized authorities is available to staff and families.
Safe resting practices for 2 to 5 years
• Children will be placed on their back to rest, unless otherwise directed in writing by the child’s medical practitioner.
• If a child turns over during their sleep, allow them to find their own sleeping position, but always lay them on their back when first placing them to rest.
• At no time will a child’s face be covered with bed linen.
• Light bedding is the preferred option, which must be tucked in to prevent the child from pulling bed linen over their face.
• Provision is made for children who do not sleep to engage in quiet activities such as looking at books, quiet table activities.
Staff will at all times meet the children Services Regulations 2004:
· To ensure that bedding is arranged to prevent cross infection
· Allow easy access and exit of children
· The sleep/rest area is adequately ventilated and has natural light.
· No children over the age of seven sleep in the same room with any child of the opposite sex.
· No child sleeps in the same room that an adult sleeps in.
All beds and mattresses will be appropriately cleaned and maintained.
Sources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
National Child Care Accreditation Council: Quality Practices Guide 1st edition 2005
Sids and Kids www.sidsandkids.org Retrieved http://www.sidsandkids.org/safe-sleeping/ 29 July 2010
Better Health Channel www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au Retrieved http://www2.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcsearch/bhcsearch?start=0&searchtext=children+sleep
29 July 2010
Rising Children website www.raisingchildren.net.au Retrieved http://raisingchildren.net.au/search.aspx?q=sleep+time&x=11&y=12 29 July 2010
Review
The policy will be reviewed annually. Review will be conducted by management, employees, parents and any interested parties.
Reviewed: 29 July 2010 Date for next review: 29 July 2011
Continuity of Care Policy
Aim
To promote continuity of care and security for the children attending the centre in the absence of primary carers.
Legislative Requirements
Children’s Services Regulations 2004, National Childcare Accreditation Council
Who is affected by this policy
Child
Staff
Families
Implementation
Edgeworth Child Care Centre makes use of casual staff from a variety of sources; including past students, work experience students and volunteers.
Prior to commencing any casual work, relief staff will be invited to visit the centre and familiarise themselves with the setting as part of an induction process. Relief staff will also be required to complete relevant prohibited person’s checks in accordance with licencing regulations.
Casual staff will be provided with access to centre policies and procedures, staff handbook, as well as description of their roles and responsibilities whilst at the centre.
The centre will aim to use the same pool of casual staff in the absence of permanent staff and encourages casual staff to become familiar with the centre, staff, children and families, as well as routines. Where possible relief staff will be employed on the same day of the week to help them develop closer understanding of the children attending that day, and to help the children develop relationships with these casual staff.
New casual staff will be encouraged to display a photo and short introduction of themselves. This will help identify new staff to children and their families. Staff will advise parents and guardians of any changes to staffing patterns via newsletters and where possible before these changes occur.
Sources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
Quality Practices Guide 2005
Review
The policy will be reviewed annually. Review will be conducted by management, employees, parents and any interested parties.
Reviewed: 29 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Death of a Child Policy
Aim
The staff will ensure immediate and appropriate action is taken to notify relevant authorities in the event of the death of a child.
Legislative Requirements
Children’s Services Regulation 2004
Who is affected by this policy
Child
Staff
Families
Management
Implementation
Staff will follow this procedure:
· Attempt CPR
· Call an Ambulance
· Director will call parents and arrange to meet at the Hospital
· Medical staff will advise parents
· Notify Police Department
· Notify the Department of Community Services Director General
· Notify Licensee
· Contact Insurance Company
Sources
Children Services Regulations 2004
Review
The policy will be reviewed annually. Review will be conducted by management, employees, parents and any interested parties.
Reviewed: 29 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Interactions with Children Policy
Aim
Edgeworth Child Care Centres’ aim is to ensure that all staffs interactions with children are positive and conducive to their well being. Positive peer interactions are encouraged and observed. This interaction is encouraged between all children who attend the Centre. The mixing of age groups is accepted and encouraged providing adequate supervision is provided as required by the Children’s Services Regulation 2004.
Legislative Requirements
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
Who is affected by this policy
Child
Staff
Implementation
Staff to Children interaction:
- Staff need to communicate closely with parents to determine how individual children indicate their needs such as: hunger, toileting, tiredness, and emotions (happiness, sadness, frustration)
- Tantrums can occur as a way of releasing frustration. Staff members must allow a child to calm down and then reassure the child. The staff member can simply discuss what has happened with the child and then give an alternative behaviour. For example: “If you are being hurt, next time come and tell me”
- A toddlers need for emerging independence should be encouraged where possible, staff can utilize routine activities to initiate meaningful interactions
- most toddlers have a need for affection and reassurance. Toddlers can often become frustrated, and are affected by separation from family. Staff need to be responsive to this in ways appropriate to each individual family.
- Pre-schoolers may appear very sure of themselves at times, however, they still need affection. Staff should interact appropriately to each individual child
- Conversations should be two-sided, and staff should show children that they their ideas and comments are valued
- Staff should build a rapport with the children and families. This can be achieved with the children by telling them what you did on the weekend, what your pet did last night. In return allow children time to tell you stories they want to share with you
- allow time to talk to parents as they can provide valuable information about their child’s culture, family life, likes/dislikes, interests
- Use positive guidance. Tell children what you want them to do – “We walk inside” rather than “No running”
- Give the children something to look forward to: “Today we…” This enables children to feel proud of their learning
- Be attentive to all children, at all times. A look or smile is all children need to know that they are being noticed and valued without having to resort to attention seeking behaviour
- Staff members should be honest in showing their feelings. If staff members are feeling frustrated, ill or getting impatient they should be able to discuss these feelings with the children in a non-threatening way. Use “I” messages to explain your concerns and enlist the children’s help
Children to Children interaction:
Staff encourages children to:
- Verbalise feelings and ideas
- Listen to other children
- Show respect for others
- Develop good social skills
- Accept others of different culture, race and religion
- Be co-operative
- Have good relationships with each other
- Share experiences
- Show acceptance of routines
- Seek help when frustrated
- Interact with other children
- Be relaxed and happy with each other
- Contribute to activities and participate
- Respond to positive discipline practice
- Feel comfortable with themselves
- Respect other children’s space and privacy
Sources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
Quality Practices Guide 2005 1st Edition
Raising Children Network www.raisingchildren.net.au
Retrieved http://raisingchildren.net.au/search.aspx?q=interactions 30 July 2010
Review
The policy will be reviewed annually. Review will be conducted by management, employees, parents and any interested parties.
Reviewed: 30 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Priority of Access Policy
Aim
By following the Australian Government Priority Access Guidelines, our aim is to provide a child care service that allocates places to those families with the greatest need for childcare support.
Legislative Requirements
Children’s Services Regulations 2004, A New tax System (Family Assistance) Act 1999
Who is affected by this policy
Children
Staff
Parents
Management
Implementation
Children enrolled at Edgeworth Child Care Centre will be given Priority of Access in accordance to the guidelines set by the Department of Family, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs.
They set out the following three levels of priority, which the centre must follow when filling vacant places:
· Priority 1 a child at risk of serious abuse or neglect
· Priority 2 a child of a single parent who satisfies, or of parents who both satisfy, the work/training/study test under section 14 of the A New tax System (Family Assistance) Act 1999
· Priority 3 any other child
Within these categories priority should also be given to the following children:
· Children in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families
· Children in families which include a disabled person
· Children in families on low income
· Children in families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds
· Children in socially isolated families
· Children of single parents
On enrollment parents will be notified of their priority and advised that it the centre has no vacancies and there child’s position is a priority 3 under the Priority of Access Guideline, it may be required that their child leave or reduce their days in order for the centre to provide a place for a higher priority child.
Sources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
Children’s and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998
CCMS Child Care services handbook 2009 2010
Review
The policy will be reviewed annually. Review will be conducted by management, employees, parents and any interested parties.
Reviewed: 30 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Protective Behaviours Policy
Aim
“We all have the right to feel safe all the time”.
“Nothing is so awful that we can’t talk about it with someone we can trust”.
Below are the aims and the beliefs the Centre holds as to why protective behaviour is a vital
part of living skills for all children. Protective behaviour strategies will be incorporated into
our every day programs.
· That children will be able to recognise their feelings and express them verbally using the “I” message. (i.e. I feel…when… rather than saying You make me feel…).
· That children wil be able to express their feelings in a variety of acceptable ways both verbally and non-verbally and that adults will listen and respond appropriately.
· That children will understand that they can choose to change the way they are feeling.
· That children understand that “safe” is the way they have a right to feel all the time.
· That children recognise the first physical signs indicating that they need to take extra care and think clearly.
· That children learn to distinguish between the “fun scared” feeling of adventure and appropriate risk taking and the “scared” feeling of danger which is not O.K.
· That children use their own skills to help themselves feel safe again whenever they can.
· That all who come to visit the Centre, adults as well as children, find it a safe place to be or visit.
Beliefs
· That children are people who feel the same range of emotions as adults.
· That children’s emotions are real, and need to be expressed and accepted by adults.
· That the response of adults to children’s early expressions of feelings is a vital component in the development of trust, self-esteem, and self-confidence.
· When the responses of adults “match” the expressed needs of the child, healthy communication is encouraged.
· That being in charge of feelings is an important component in the process of developing self-confidence and responsibility.
· That there are physical sensations which occur in response to various emotional states – including fear.
· That young children are very aware of the signals which their bodies give them in these situations.
· That adults have the power to enhance or destroy the child’s responsiveness to these signals.
· That children who retain and enhance their responsiveness to their body signals are more able to foresee possible threatening situations and avoid them or ask for help.
Legislative Requirements
Children’s Services Regulation 2004, Children’s and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998
Who is affected by this policy
Children
Parents
Staff
Management
Sources
Children’s and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998
Quality Practices Guide 2005 1st Edition
Review
The policy will be reviewed annually. Review will be conducted by management, employees, parents and any interested parties.
Reviewed: 30 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Severe Allergy Policy
Aim
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction with symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, swelling of the tongue, swelling or tightness in the throat, rash, and loss of consciousness. It is a life-threatening condition that requires emergency treatment. Common substances which can cause as severe allergic reaction include bee stings, insect bites, peanuts, eggs, drugs etc. Edgeworth Child Care Centre aims to minimise substances that have the potential to cause a severe allergic reaction to the children who attend the centre.Staff
Families
Prior to commencing any casual work, relief staff will be invited to visit the centre and familiarise themselves with the setting as part of an induction process. Relief staff will also be required to complete relevant prohibited person’s checks in accordance with licencing regulations.
Casual staff will be provided with access to centre policies and procedures, staff handbook, as well as description of their roles and responsibilities whilst at the centre.
The centre will aim to use the same pool of casual staff in the absence of permanent staff and encourages casual staff to become familiar with the centre, staff, children and families, as well as routines. Where possible relief staff will be employed on the same day of the week to help them develop closer understanding of the children attending that day, and to help the children develop relationships with these casual staff.
New casual staff will be encouraged to display a photo and short introduction of themselves. This will help identify new staff to children and their families. Staff will advise parents and guardians of any changes to staffing patterns via newsletters and where possible before these changes occur.
Quality Practices Guide 2005
Reviewed: 29 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Staff
Families
Management
· Attempt CPR
· Call an Ambulance
· Director will call parents and arrange to meet at the Hospital
· Medical staff will advise parents
· Notify Police Department
· Contact Insurance Company
Reviewed: 29 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Staff
- Staff need to communicate closely with parents to determine how individual children indicate their needs such as: hunger, toileting, tiredness, and emotions (happiness, sadness, frustration)
- Tantrums can occur as a way of releasing frustration. Staff members must allow a child to calm down and then reassure the child. The staff member can simply discuss what has happened with the child and then give an alternative behaviour. For example: “If you are being hurt, next time come and tell me”
- A toddlers need for emerging independence should be encouraged where possible, staff can utilize routine activities to initiate meaningful interactions
- most toddlers have a need for affection and reassurance. Toddlers can often become frustrated, and are affected by separation from family. Staff need to be responsive to this in ways appropriate to each individual family.
- Pre-schoolers may appear very sure of themselves at times, however, they still need affection. Staff should interact appropriately to each individual child
- Conversations should be two-sided, and staff should show children that they their ideas and comments are valued
- Staff should build a rapport with the children and families. This can be achieved with the children by telling them what you did on the weekend, what your pet did last night. In return allow children time to tell you stories they want to share with you
- allow time to talk to parents as they can provide valuable information about their child’s culture, family life, likes/dislikes, interests
- Use positive guidance. Tell children what you want them to do – “We walk inside” rather than “No running”
- Give the children something to look forward to: “Today we…” This enables children to feel proud of their learning
- Be attentive to all children, at all times. A look or smile is all children need to know that they are being noticed and valued without having to resort to attention seeking behaviour
- Staff members should be honest in showing their feelings. If staff members are feeling frustrated, ill or getting impatient they should be able to discuss these feelings with the children in a non-threatening way. Use “I” messages to explain your concerns and enlist the children’s help
Children to Children interaction:
Staff encourages children to:
- Verbalise feelings and ideas
- Listen to other children
- Show respect for others
- Develop good social skills
- Accept others of different culture, race and religion
- Be co-operative
- Have good relationships with each other
- Share experiences
- Show acceptance of routines
- Seek help when frustrated
- Interact with other children
- Be relaxed and happy with each other
- Contribute to activities and participate
- Respond to positive discipline practice
- Feel comfortable with themselves
- Respect other children’s space and privacy
Sources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
Quality Practices Guide 2005 1st Edition
Raising Children Network www.raisingchildren.net.au
Retrieved http://raisingchildren.net.au/search.aspx?q=interactions 30 July 2010
Review
The policy will be reviewed annually. Review will be conducted by management, employees, parents and any interested parties.
Reviewed: 30 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Priority of Access Policy
Aim
By following the Australian Government Priority Access Guidelines, our aim is to provide a child care service that allocates places to those families with the greatest need for childcare support.
Legislative Requirements
Children’s Services Regulations 2004, A New tax System (Family Assistance) Act 1999
Who is affected by this policy
Children
Staff
Parents
Management
Implementation
Children enrolled at Edgeworth Child Care Centre will be given Priority of Access in accordance to the guidelines set by the Department of Family, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs.
They set out the following three levels of priority, which the centre must follow when filling vacant places:
· Priority 1 a child at risk of serious abuse or neglect
· Priority 2 a child of a single parent who satisfies, or of parents who both satisfy, the work/training/study test under section 14 of the A New tax System (Family Assistance) Act 1999
· Priority 3 any other child
Within these categories priority should also be given to the following children:
· Children in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families
· Children in families which include a disabled person
· Children in families on low income
· Children in families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds
· Children in socially isolated families
· Children of single parents
On enrollment parents will be notified of their priority and advised that it the centre has no vacancies and there child’s position is a priority 3 under the Priority of Access Guideline, it may be required that their child leave or reduce their days in order for the centre to provide a place for a higher priority child.
Sources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
Children’s and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998
CCMS Child Care services handbook 2009 2010
Review
The policy will be reviewed annually. Review will be conducted by management, employees, parents and any interested parties.
Reviewed: 30 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Protective Behaviours Policy
“Nothing is so awful that we can’t talk about it with someone we can trust”.
Below are the aims and the beliefs the Centre holds as to why protective behaviour is a vital
part of living skills for all children. Protective behaviour strategies will be incorporated into
our every day programs.
· That children will be able to recognise their feelings and express them verbally using the “I” message. (i.e. I feel…when… rather than saying You make me feel…).
· That children wil be able to express their feelings in a variety of acceptable ways both verbally and non-verbally and that adults will listen and respond appropriately.
· That children will understand that they can choose to change the way they are feeling.
· That children understand that “safe” is the way they have a right to feel all the time.
· That children recognise the first physical signs indicating that they need to take extra care and think clearly.
· That children learn to distinguish between the “fun scared” feeling of adventure and appropriate risk taking and the “scared” feeling of danger which is not O.K.
· That children use their own skills to help themselves feel safe again whenever they can.
· That all who come to visit the Centre, adults as well as children, find it a safe place to be or visit.
· That children’s emotions are real, and need to be expressed and accepted by adults.
· That the response of adults to children’s early expressions of feelings is a vital component in the development of trust, self-esteem, and self-confidence.
· When the responses of adults “match” the expressed needs of the child, healthy communication is encouraged.
· That being in charge of feelings is an important component in the process of developing self-confidence and responsibility.
· That there are physical sensations which occur in response to various emotional states – including fear.
· That young children are very aware of the signals which their bodies give them in these situations.
· That adults have the power to enhance or destroy the child’s responsiveness to these signals.
· That children who retain and enhance their responsiveness to their body signals are more able to foresee possible threatening situations and avoid them or ask for help.
Parents
Staff
Management
Quality Practices Guide 2005 1st Edition
Reviewed: 30 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Children’s Services Regulation 2004
Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000
Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001
Children
Families
Staff
Management
Implementation
Anaphylaxis occurs infrequently. However, it is life-threatening and can occur at any time. Milder forms of anaphylaxis occur much more frequently than fatal anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis occurs in all age groups. While prior exposure to allergens is essential for the development of true anaphylaxis, severe allergic reactions occur even when no documented prior exposure exists.
Severe allergic reactions are usually triggered by a limited number of allergic exposures. These include injection, swallowing, inhaling or skin contact with an allergen by a severely allergic individual.Examples of injected allergens are bee, hornet, wasp and yellow jacket stings; certain vaccines that have been prepared on an egg medium; and allergen extracts used for diagnosis and treatment of allergic conditions. Antibiotics such as penicillin can trigger a reaction by injection or swallowing.
Typically, a severe reaction caused by a food allergy occurs after eating that particular food, even a small bite. Allergy to peanuts is an example. Skin contact with the food rarely causes anaphylaxis. Foods most commonly associated with anaphylaxis are peanuts, seafood, nuts and, in children particularly, eggs and cow’s milk.
Signs and Symptoms:
The signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis may occur almost immediately after exposure or within the first 20 minutes after exposure. Rapid onset and development of potentially life threatening symptoms are characteristic markers of anaphylaxis. Allergic symptoms may initially appear mild or moderate but can progress rapidly. The most dangerous allergic reactions involve the lungs and/or heart/vessel system.
Immediate management:
Anaphylaxis is an emergency condition requiring immediate professional medical attention. Adrenaline is a drug that should be given by injection without delay. Adrenaline comes in multiple formats, one of them called EpiPen® that might be carried by individuals. Staff should be trained in the administration of an EpiPen®. CPR (cardio pulmonary resuscitation) should be initiated if needed. Antihistamines may be given to further reduce symptoms (after lifesaving measures and adrenaline are administered).
Steps on the prevention of severe allergic reactions
· Obtain medical information at the time of enrolment of the child on any identified allergies. Ask the parents for supporting documentation and action plan. The action plan should include:
Clear identification of the child (photo)
Documentation of the allergic triggers
Documentation of the first aid response including any prescribed medication
Identification and contact details of the doctor who has signed the action plan.
· Education of early childhood staff to recognise the risk and understanding the steps that can be taken to minimise food anaphylaxis by all those responsible for the care of the child. Instruction on EpiPen® use should also be included in the training provided by appropriately qualified professionals.
· Practical strategies to avoid exposure to known triggers. Avoidance of specific triggers is the basis of anaphylaxis prevention. It is not recommended that children with a food allergy be physically isolated from other children. At the centre, children are dependant on early childhood staff to provide a safe environment.
o There should be no trading and sharing of food, food utensils and food containers.
o It is ideal that children with severe food allergies should only eat lunches and snacks that have been prepared at home.
o Bottles, other drinks and lunch boxes provided by the parents for their children should be clearly labelled with the name of the child for whom they are intended.
o The use of food in crafts, cooking classes and science experiments may need to be restricted depending on the allergies of particular children.
o Food preparation staff should be instructed about measures necessary to prevent cross contamination during the handling, preparation and serving of food. Examples would include the careful cleaning of food preparation areas after use and cleaning of utensils when preparing allergenic foods.
o Parents will be asked not to send food containing highly allergenic foods such as egg and nut products to the centre.
o In some circumstances it may be appropriate that a highly allergic child does not sit at tables where the food to which they are allergic is being served.
o the meal prepared for all children should not contain the ingredients such as milk, egg and nut products to which the child is at risk.
o Food removal from preschools or childcare centres should only occur following recommendation by a relevant medical specialist and provision of documentation of this recommendation.
Nutrition Australia www.nutritionaustralia.org
Retrieved http://www.nutritionaustralia.org/nsw/nutrition-services-early-learning-centres
30 July10
NSW Health www.health.nsw.gov.au
Retrieved http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/factsheets/general/allergies.html 30 July 2010
Anaphylaxis Australia www.allergyfacts.org.au
Retrieved http://www.allergyfacts.org.au/schools.html 30 July 2010
Review
The policy will be reviewed annually. Review will be conducted by management, employees, parents and any interested parties.
Reviewed: 30 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Sun Protection Policy
Due to the high risk of unprotected sun exposure in the first fifteen years of life significantly increasing a child’s risk of developing skin cancer later in life. The centre aim is to help minimize these risks to children and staff, and to help educate families about sun protection.
Occupational Health &Safety Act 2000 & Regulations, Children’s Services Regulations 2004, National Childcare Accreditation Council Quality Practices Guide 1st Edition 2005
Staff
Children
Parents
Families
Management
· Develop positive attitudes towards skin protection
· Develop awareness of lifestyle practices which can reduce the incidence of skin cancer
· Promote personal responsibility for decision making about skin protection
· Increase awareness of the need for environment changes in childcare centres to reduce the levels of exposure to the sun
· Encourage the wearing of “sunsmart “ hats when outdoors and on excursions Appropriate hats include broad brimmed hat ( brim at least 6cm), a legionnaire hat, a bucket style hat with a deep crown and brim at least 5cm. ( caps are not recommended due to inadequate protection to the neck, cheek and ears)
· Encourage the wearing of shirts with collars and sleeves that are made from closely woven fibre, by both children and staff (midriff and singlet tops are not recommended due to inadequate coverage.)
· Provide and use SPF 30+ broad spectrum on exposed areas of skin, to be applied by parents in the morning prior to or on arrival. Staff to then help children apply sunscreen again 20 minutes before going outdoors in the afternoon.
· Posters will be displayed to show correct application of sunscreen.
· Outdoor play will be planned to occur in shaded areas and moved throughout the day to take advantage of shade patterns.
· A NO HAT – PLAY IN THE SHADE policy will be implemented where children without hats remain under covered areas.
· Babies under 12months will not be exposed to direct sunlight and will remain in dense shade when outside.
· Staffs are to model appropriate sun safe practices of hats, shirts and sunscreen. Visitors will also be encouraged to do the same.
· From October to March sun protection is required at all times, the centre will schedule outdoor play before 11am and after 3pm. If the need arises to be outdoors during 11am to 3pm extra sun protection will be enforced.
· From April to September* children will be able to go outdoors at any time however, from 10am to 2pm sun protection will be required.
· *In June & July, the daily UV Index will be checked, www.bom.gov.au/weather/uv, if under 3, sun protection is not required.
o The centre will take extra care with children who have very fair skin.
o the children will have the opportunity to access outdoors at all times during the day with sun protection being used to encourage the continuity of good practice.
· The sun safe policy will operate throughout the year.
· Sun safety will be incorporated into the program to help educate children and instill positive attitudes and practices. Information will also be sent home to parents and families to help educate and encourage parents to adopt these practices.
· When replacing shade, the centre will carry out a shade audit to maximize and effectively use shade products.
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
The Cancer Council NSW www.cancercouncil.com.au
Retrieved http://www.cancercouncil.com.au/editorial.asp?pageid=413 30 July 2010
Quality Practices Guild 2005
The policy will be reviewed annually. Review will be conducted by management, employees, parents and any interested parties.
Reviewed: 30 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Supervision of Children Policy
Edgeworth Child Care Centre will provide adequate supervision to all the children while attending the centre. Adequate supervision of children takes into consideration the safety and welfare of every child.
Childrens Services Regulations 2004
Child
Staff
Family
Volunteers
Students
Management
All staff, permanent and relief, will be made aware of this policy regarding adequate and responsible supervision of children during the staff induction.
Staff shifts and routines will at all times provide for enough staff to be available for the adequate supervision of children.
At no time will students or volunteers be included in the ration of adults supervising children.
Students and volunteers will never be left alone with a child or a group of children.
In any situation where adequate supervision of children is threatened, any staff on crib or lunch breaks must be prepared to be recalled to perform this function.
The Director [Authorised Supervisor] will ensure that Childrens Services Regulations 2004 in relation to the supervision of children are adhered to.
INDOORS
A minimum of two staff members (at least one being a permanent staff member) will provide supervision when children are indoors.
Supervising staff should give their attention to the children and not to other duties.
When children are resting or sleeping they will be supervised at all times having regard to their ages and physical and intellectual development.
During hand washing and/ or toilet times children will be supervised in the bathroom area.
Toddlers and children undergoing toilet training will not be left unsupervised in the bathroom.
No child is to be left unattended at the table when eating.
OUTDOORS
A minimum of two staff members (at least one being a permanent staff member) will provide supervision when children are outdoors.
Where one staff member is called inside for any reason, they must wait until replacement staff are out until going inside.
When supervising outdoors, staff will position themselves to maximize their view of as much play area as possible.
One staff member should be positioned alongside the climbing frame as often as possible.
Where there is any water activity provided, one staff member will supervise this area at all times.
Except for brief discussions or concerns regarding children or matters relating to the centre, staff will not congregate outside.
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
Quality Practices Guide 2005 1st Edition
Putting Children First Issue 15 Sept 2005 pages 8-11 Retrieved http://www.ncac.gov.au/pcf/Supervision_in_Children’s_Services_Sept05.pdf
30 July 2010
The policy will be reviewed annually. Review will be conducted by management, employees, parents and any interested parties.
Reviewed: 30 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Toileting & Nappy Change Policy
Edgeworth Child Care Centre accepts enrollments of children who are not yet toilet trained – and has the appropriate facilities to accommodate these. Staff also acknowledges the importance of working closely with families to ensure the needs of the child are met – including any cultural practices staff may need to be aware of.
Children’s Service Regulations 2004
Child
Staff
Toileting and nappy changing will be carried out at regular intervals throughout the day (or as needed) Children who are in nappies will have details of this recorded in the register kept by the staff. This is located nappy change trolley, at the end of the day the child’s feedback sheet will be placed in the child’s backpack /bag or handed to parents to check. Staff will also be aware of and accommodate the possible need to maintain privacy when toileting and dressing.
Nappy changing and toileting will be carried out by permanent [& regular on-call casual relief] staff members, with staff following the nappy changing procedure outline by the National Health and Medical Research Council. At times it may be required that a student carries out the nappy change as part of practical requirements, and a staff member will always be present and monitor this. In addition if a parent is present and helping their child (toileting in the bathroom), a staff member is required to accompany any other children needing to use the bathroom at the same time.
At all times, appropriate hygiene practices will be maintained and procedures followed to minimise the risk of infection. Staff will always model and promote healthy hygiene practices and hand washing procedures; discussing these with the children and encouraging the children to follow these practices also.
Staying Healthy in Child Care Preventing Infectious diseases in child care 4th edition 2005
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
The policy will be reviewed annually. Review will be conducted by management, employees, parents and any interested parties.
Reviewed: 30 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
Edgeworth Child Care Centre
Nappy Change Procedure
* Nappy changes occur regularly and as needed throughout the day. At all
times keep one hand on the child to prevent them falling of the change
table.
· First prepare change area: gloves, place paper towel, wipes and bag to dispose of nappy, child’s nappy
· Put gloves on hands
· Place paper on the change table
· Remove the child’s nappy and put in a “hands free” lidded bin
· Remove any clothes with urine and faeces on them
· Clean child’s bottom
· Remove the paper and put it in a “hands free” lidded bin
· Remove your gloves by peeling them back from your wrists, turning them inside out as you go. Put the gloves in the bin.
· Re-dress the child
· Wash and dry the child’s hands
· Take the child away from the change table
· Clean the table with neutral detergent solution
· Wash your hands.
· Ensure the nappy trolley is re-stocked
Edgeworth Child Care Centre
TOILETING PROCEDURE
Toileting occurs at any time of the day and is tailored to meet individual needs. Staff will communicate with parent to develop continuity and consistency with their child’s toileting. Staff also will be aware of and consider any special requirements related to culture, religion or privacy needs.
- At all times staff will encourage and support the child’s independence in toileting, providing assistance where required.
- Where possible it is preferable to use the toilet rather than a potty when toilet training. This is for hygiene/infection control reasons.
Use gloves for any of these stages in the toileting procedure:
- Assist child to remove clothing if needed
- Assist child onto toilet if needed.
- Assist the child to wipe themselves, encouraging them to wipe front to back.
- Assist the child to flush the toilet
- Get the child to wash and dry hands on single use towel, then leave the bathroom
If the child has soiled or wet their clothing:
· Remove any wet/soiled clothing and seal in a bag for washing
· Clean and dry the child
· Remove gloves and wash hands, do not touch the child’s clean clothing.
· Put on new gloves and dress the child, wash and dry the child’s hands. Have them leave the bathroom.
· Clean any spills following procedure for cleaning spills of body fluids.
· Remove and dispose of gloves, wash and dry your hands.
Uncollected Child Policy
To ensure that all children are cared for in a safe and secure manner at all times
Children Services regulations 2004,Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 and Regulations 2001
Child
Families
Staff
· The staff will first endeavor to contact the child’s parents (primary carers) and nominated emergency contacts who are authorised to collect the child.
· If unsuccessful in contacting any of the above mentioned people, the staff will call the local police to seek information about any incidents or accidents that may have delayed the parents ( or persons collecting)
· Contact management
· The Staff will contact the Child Protection helpline on 133 627, for advise and support
· Two staff must remain with the child at all time
· If the child is to be taken from the centre, the Police or NSW Government Human Services Community Services will be responsible for the child’s safe transportation. The staff are not to transport the child.
· The staff must record all details of the situation and any actions taken on an incident form. It is important that the person removing the child (the Police or NSW Government Human Services Community Services ) signs this form.
· The NSW Government Human Services Community Services and/or Police are now responsible for the ongoing attempts to locate the parent/carer and for the well being of the child.
· A sign will then be placed at the centre’s entrance for the parents (or collecting person) advising that they contact the police or Child Protection Helpline for information about the where abouts of the child.
Childrens Services Regulation 2004
The policy will be reviewed annually. Review will be conducted by management, employees, parents and any interested parties.
Reviewed: 30 July 2010 Date for next review: July 2011
