1. family and parenting
2. children

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
CHILDCARE CENTRE
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
ANTI BIAS POLICY .................................................................................................. 1
ACCESS AND ATTENDANCE POLICY ................................................................... 3
ARRIVING AND LEAVING PROCEDURE................................................................ 6
ADMISSIONS POLICY ............................................................................................. 7
ACCIDENT PREVENTION PROCEDURES.............................................................. 8
BATHING POLICY.................................................................................................... 9
BOTTLE WARMING / PREPARING PROCEDURE................................................ 10
BEHAVIOUR GUIDANCE POLICY......................................................................... 11
BROKEN TOY POLICY/PROCEDURE................................................................... 14
BURGLARY PROCEDURE .................................................................................... 15
CHILD ABUSE........................................................................................................ 16
COMPLAINTS POLICY .......................................................................................... 17
COMPUTER USAGE (CHILDREN) POLICY .......................................................... 18
CENTRE ENVIRONMENT POLICY ........................................................................ 19
PREVENTING BURNS/ELECTRIC SHOCKS......................................................... 20
CHILD HEALTH POLICY........................................................................................ 21
CHILD PROTECTION POLICY............................................................................... 22
MAKING A NOTIFICATION TO NSW AUTHORITIES............................................ 39
CARING FOR SICK CHILDREN PROCEDURE ..................................................... 40
CLEANING ROUTINES POLICY ............................................................................ 41
CLOTHING POLICY ............................................................................................... 42
CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY.................................................................................. 44
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
CURRICULUM POLICIES ...................................................................................... 46
COMMUNICATION POLICY................................................................................... 49
COMMUNICATION PROCEDURE ......................................................................... 51
DENTAL CARE POLICY ........................................................................................ 54
ACTION PLAN FOR DENTAL EMERGENCIES..................................................... 55
DIVERSITY POLICY ............................................................................................... 56
ELECTRONIC MEDIA POLICY .............................................................................. 59
EXCLUSION FOR ILLNESS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE POLICY ..................... 61
EMERGENCY POLICY........................................................................................... 65
EMERGENCY PROCEDURE ................................................................................. 67
EMERGENCY FIRE EVACUATION PROCEDURE ................................................ 68
EMERGENCY EVACUATION PROCEDURES....................................................... 69
EXCURSION POLICY............................................................................................. 71
EXCURSION PERMISSION FORM ........................................................................ 74
EDUCATION POLICY............................................................................................. 76
ENROLMENT POLICY ........................................................................................... 79
ENROLMENT PROCEDURE.................................................................................. 80
ETHICAL CONDUCT POLICY................................................................................ 81
FOOD HANDLING AND STORAGE POLICY......................................................... 82
FIRST AID POLICY ................................................................................................ 85
FEES POLICY ........................................................................................................ 87
GRIEVANCE POLICY............................................................................................. 89
GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE ................................................................................... 90
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
HANDWASHING PROCEDURE ............................................................................. 91
HIV / AIDS & HEPATITIS B & C (IMPAIRMENT) POLICY ..................................... 92
INDUCTION OF NEW FAMILIES POLICY ............................................................. 96
ILLNESS AND INJURY REPORTS POLICY .......................................................... 97
IMMUNISATION POLICY ....................................................................................... 98
INCLUSION POLICY AND DISABILITY ACCESS ............................................... 100
INDUCTION POLICY - STAFF ............................................................................. 102
INFECTION CONTROL POLICY .......................................................................... 103
INTERACTIONS WITH CHILDREN POLICY ........................................................ 105
LATE COLLECTION OF CHILDREN POLICY ..................................................... 106
MEDICATION POLICY ......................................................................................... 107
MANAGEMENT POLICY ...................................................................................... 110
MANUAL HANDLING POLICY............................................................................. 111
NAPPY CHANGE POLICY ................................................................................... 112
TOILET & TOILET TRAINING POLICY ................................................................ 113
NUT FREE POLICY .............................................................................................. 115
NUTRITION POLICY ............................................................................................ 117
FOOD SAFETY..................................................................................................... 119
OPEN DOOR POLICY .......................................................................................... 120
ORIENTATION POLICY ....................................................................................... 121
REST AND SLEEP POLICY ................................................................................. 122
RETENTION OF RECORDS POLICY................................................................... 124
ROUTINES POLICY ............................................................................................. 126
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
CHILDRENS SHEETS / BED LINEN PROCEDURE............................................. 127
SOILED CLOTHING PROCEDURE – CLEANING AND STORING...................... 128
RECRUITING PERMANENT STAFF .................................................................... 129
STAFF POLICIES................................................................................................. 132
JOB DESCRIPTIONS ........................................................................................... 135
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY ............................................ 141
STORAGE OF DANGEROUS SUBSTANCES AND DANGEROUS EQUIPMENT
POLICY................................................................................................................. 143
SUNSAFE POLICY............................................................................................... 144
SAFETY POLICY.................................................................................................. 147
SUPERVISION POLICY ....................................................................................... 148
SAFETY AUDIT POLICY ...................................................................................... 149
TOY CLEANING AND DISINFECTING PROCEDURE ......................................... 152
TRANSITION TO SCHOOL AND OTHER ORGANISATIONS POLICY ............... 153
VISITOR POLICY ................................................................................................. 156
WATER ACCESS / DRINKING PROCEDURE ..................................................... 157
WATER SAFE POLICY ........................................................................................ 158
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
ANTI BIAS POLICY
Rational
Aim
To ensure that each child is encouraged to meet their full potential regardless of
gender or culture.
To ensure that the program recognises individual differences and exposes children to
diversity without giving stereotypical information, being tokenistic or developing
biases.
Resources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004 (Clause 64 & 65).
The Anti-Bias Approach in Early Childhood 1996 (Barbara Creaser & Elizabeth Dau).
Procedures
Staff role model anti bias attitudes, language and behaviour, non-stereotypic
resource materials and activities are provided at the centre, and non-stereotypic play
is encouraged.
In regard to gender:
• Staff model appropriate language, attitudes and expectations, so that children
are presented with positive experiences not based on sex role stereotypes.
Opportunities to challenge stereotypes are viewed as learning opportunities.
In regards to culture:
• All areas of programming reflect a variety of cultures. Parent involvement is
actively encouraged, and activities from various cultures are incorporated in
the program using parents’ knowledge and experiences.
• Staff’s varied cultural background and experiences are integrated into the
program. Staff are encouraged to attend in-service training on multicultural
programming and cross-cultural issues.
• Staff monitor all children’s activities to ensure that negative and discriminating
images are avoided.
• The centre only provides food that meets the cultural requirements of each
child.
In regard to languages:
• Families of non-English speaking background are given information to
support maintenance of their home language.
• The centre’s environment and program will support the home language of
bilingual children by incorporating into the centre program activities in the
home languages of children, and providing children access to bilingual books
and posters at the centre.
1
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
In relation to Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders:
• The centre program creates positive awareness of Aboriginal culture by
incorporating books, song and dance, art and craft, puzzles etc, on Aboriginal
themes and cultures.
2
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
ACCESS AND ATTENDANCE POLICY
Rational
Aim
To ensure that attendance records and procedures are in line with current
regulations.
Resource
Children Services Regulations 2004 (Clauses 74 / 75 / 76)
Policy
Arrival
Staff are ONLY responsible for children once their parents/custodians have brought
them into the centre and notified staff that they have arrived. Therefore, we ask that
each child be brought to greet/farewell staff upon arriving or departing from the
centre. CHILDREN MUST NEVER BE LEFT AT THE CENTRE GATE. A staff
member must receive the child. When a child leaves the premises their authorised
person must collect the child.
Signing in/out
For every day that children attend the centre, their parents/guardians need to sign
them in upon arrival and out upon departure. THIS IS AN IMPORTANT LEGAL
REQUIREMENT. Parents must inform any persons, they authorise to bring or collect
their child from the centre about this requirement.
Departure - Releasing Children from the Centre
Children are allowed to leave the centre only with their parents/custodians or any
persons authorized in writing by their parents/custodians. This written authority must
include information on the name, address, phone number and relationship to the
child of the person authorized to collect the child. (See Form – Temporary
Authorisation to Collect)
Alternative arrangements may be made in consultation with the Director in case of an
emergency.
Director/Authorized Supervisors are to ensure that the authorized pick-up list for each
child is kept up to date.
Staff are responsible for ensuring that children are collected by an authorized person.
a) No child will be released into the care of any persons not known to staff or not
authorized to collect the child. If staff do not know the person by appearance, the
person must be able to produce some form of identification (e.g. driver’s license)
to prove that she/he is the person authorized to collect the child on the enrolment
form.
3
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
b) When the person collecting the child is someone other than those nominated on
the enrolment form, parents must give prior notice. The person nominated by
the parent must be able to produce identification. If staff have not been notified
and the parent cannot be contacted, the child must not be released into the care
of that person.
c) No child will be released into the care of a person under the age of eighteen (18)
years.
d) 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 contacts listed on the enrolment form, inform them of the situation
and request they collect the child as soon as possible.
Both parents have equal access to their child at the centre unless a court order
specifying otherwise is provided to the centre. Any such restriction on accessing a
child must also be clearly written on the child’s enrolment form. The centre keeps
copies of any relevant court orders on the child’s file.
A child will not be released to a NON-custodial parent without a lifting of the
court order.
Discussion about any court orders takes place between the centre director and the
child’s parent/custodian to determine the necessary course of action. All staff are
briefed about this.
Parents/custodians must keep the centre informed if the custody/access
arrangements for their children change. (Reference: clause 74&75) Children’s
Services Legislation.
Access
•
•
A child may be contacted at any time by the parent.
Exchange of information about your child with primary contact staff is
encouraged.
Denial of Information & Access
A person forbidden by the court from having contact with child attending a childcare
service:
1. Must not be given any information.
2. Must not be permitted to collect the child from the service
Failure to collect a child
If a child is not collected from the centre 15 minutes after closing time
(6.00p.m.) the following procedure will be followed.
Staff on duty will contact parents on all given contact numbers.
Upon failure to contact parents, staff will try to contact the emergency contacts listed
in the enrolment form.
4
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Upon failure to establish contact with parents & emergency contacts, one hour after
closing time, staff will contact the Child Protection & Family Crisis Services on 1800
006 777 and also contact the authorised supervisor.
Absences
If a child is not going to attend the centre for the day, their families are asked to ring
and notify the centre between 7.00am and 9.00am.
5
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
ARRIVING AND LEAVING PROCEDURE
Parents are encouraged to stay for a few minutes in the morning with their children
and to leave them with a staff member who will help them settle in.
Before leaving, it is important for parents to tell their children that they are going, and,
when saying goodbye, to let them know that they will be returning. If children
become distressed on parting, a cuddle from staff and interesting activities will
usually distract them. Parents are welcome to stay at the centre as long as they like
but once goodbyes have been said they should leave immediately as repeated
farewells are upsetting for children.
It is important for staff to greet parents and children as they arrive and share with
parents all the news of what has happened during the day when they collect them.
Some children may be upset when other children’s parents arrive and theirs do not.
6
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
ADMISSIONS POLICY
Rational
Places are allocated according to Federal Government guidelines. These include
priority to children whose parents are working or seeking work, studying or disabled
and children at risk. Further priority is given to low-income families, single parents,
children from Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander or multicultural backgrounds and
disabled children. The centre gives priority to siblings of children already at the centre
to keep families together.
The waiting list is maintained by the Director and is confidential.
The centre
allocates places according to position on the waiting list within the guidelines above.
The centre will not exceed its licence number.
Aim
To manage enrolments and wait list placements in a timely and efficient manner in
accordance with the Federal Government guidelines
Resources
Federal Government Guidelines
Policy
Days of enrolment
In order to maximise access to child care for families, some restrictions are placed on
where a child attends the centre for two days, parents will be encouraged to take a
Monday or Friday where possible and to attend on consecutive days. This facilitates
the provision of care to as many children as possible.
The centre does not accommodate make up or swap days if a child is unable to
attend on their normal enrolment days.
Exemptions from these requirements may be made in exceptional circumstances.
Any such requests should be discussed with the Director.
Alteration of enrolment
Three weeks written notice must be given to cancel or change enrolment. If less
then three weeks notice is given, fees for the full three weeks are still payable.
If parents wish to reapply to the centre, the normal procedure of the waiting list will
apply.
If a child is absent for more than three weeks without notifying the centre, their place
may be reallocated.
7
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
ACCIDENT PREVENTION PROCEDURES
Accidents are often due to a child’s age and developmental stage. Staff should
ensure equipment and activities are appropriate for the size and skills of the children
involved.
The following precautions are to be observed:
a) All household products and medications are to be kept in their original
containers, and stored in a locked cupboard/or inaccessible room/area and
used appropriately.
b) Have the temperature of hot water systems set at less than 45 degrees
centigrade.
c) Our approved earth leakage circuit breaker will be tested regularly.
d) Never leave plastic bags or pieces of balloons within reach of children.
e) All playground, indoor and outdoor equipment and surfaces need to be in
accordance with DOCS regulations and should be maintained in good
condition.
f)
The condition of the toys and playground equipment should be inspected
regularly.
g) Display Emergency Exit (Evacuation) procedures and complete quarterly
drills.
h) Check centre fire extinguishers annually and instruct all staff on their use.
i)
Poisonous plants should not be used at the centre and staff should teach
children not to put plants into their mouths.
8
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
BATHING POLICY
Aim
To ensure the health and safety of children who may require bathing.
Resource
Children’s Services Regulations 2004. (Clause 65 / 66)
Staying Healthy in Childcare 4th Edition
Procedure
In the event that a child may require bathing, for example due to excessive diarrhoea,
vomiting etc.
Staff will ensure that:
1. The child will be reassured and discreetly escorted by two staff members to
the bathroom.
2. The child must never be left unattended.
3. Two staff members will always remain with the child in the bathroom.
4. The child is bathed as quickly as possible and dressed appropriately.
5. Appropriate follow-up procedures may be required depending on
circumstances. (See related policies eg. Medical care policies).
6. Parent/s are notified of reason for bathing.
Hygiene
Both staff members will wash hands before and afterwards and wear gloves to avoid
cross contamination. Afterwards one staff member will thoroughly disinfect bathing
area in order to circumvent any possible cross infection. Usual hand washing
procedures apply for both staff members.
9
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
BOTTLE WARMING / PREPARING PROCEDURE
The use of a warming device or pot / saucepan to warm milk can be utilised if:
• The milk is warmed for immediate consumption and not returned to the
refrigerator, and
• The warming container is emptied, cleaned, sanitized and refilled daily with fresh
water.
Bottles of milk shall be clearly labeled with the child’s name.
Bottles will only be used for the intended child.
Beverages dispensed into a bottle by the facility staff shall be:
• Full cream milk
• Dispensed from the original container, and
• Dispensed into a clean sanitized bottle provided by the parent
Any specific dairy requirements will be provided by the parent e.g. soy milk.
•
Microwaves should never be used to heat bottles.
•
Any contents remaining in a bottle after feeding should be discarded.
10
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
BEHAVIOUR GUIDANCE POLICY
Rationale
Children need to feel safe, secure and to know the limits on their behavior. They
need to develop awareness of appropriate and inappropriate behaviour and the effect
of their behaviour on others while developing their capacity for self-discipline.
It is important that this be achieved within an environment that enhances a child’s
feelings about themselves, fostering self-esteem and self-worth.
Aim
To ensure all children in the care of the centre are treated equally and fairly whilst
enabling the children to develop their ability to control their behaviour when
interacting with their peers and those around them.
Resources
Consultation with Management, Staff and Families
N.C.A.C.
Lady Gowrie Seminars
Child Care Regulations
Australian Early Childhood Association – AECA’s Policies and Working
Positions –Behaviour • Management and Guidance
Dept of Communities
Procedure
For all children in their care, staff should:
a) Have reasonable expectations bearing in mind that many factors influence
behaviour.
b) Identify and praise appropriate behaviour consistently. Staff should endeavour to
have the same expectations of the children as other staff and should treat all
children equally.
c) Give clear limits with brief explanations so the child knows why the limit has been
set and understands the consequences of his/her actions. If the behaviour
continues the consequences should be followed through.
d) Protect the child’s feelings of self worth by avoiding making a child feel bad about
him or herself. It is the behaviour not the child that is bad.
e) Endeavour to provide a good role model of conflict resolution.
f)
Provide an environment to minimise conflict by offering appropriate choices of
activities:
i)
Provide developmentally appropriate activities to avoid frustration or
boredom.
ii)
Ensure enough and varied equipment is available.
iii)
The environment should not be too noisy. Adults should speak quietly
and reduce background noise.
11
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
iv)
Provide activities for small groups of children and opportunities for
children to do things alone.
g) Encourage children’s social development by giving them the strategies to deal
with conflict through the use of appropriate language and actions. Children
should be encouraged and supported when learning to share, assert themselves
and deal with anger, and other emotions.
On an ongoing basis staff will keep parents informed about their child. Staff will talk
to them when a signs of a problem first appear and inform parents early as the
problem may not improve or may get worse. Staff will share strategies for dealing
with the problem and present a positive outlook for solving it.
Effective strategies for staff and parents
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Redirect children in their actions and reward cooperative, non-aggressive
behaviour.
Tune into what might be causing the sustained aggression e.g. unrealistic
expectations, harsh physical punishment at home, developmental delays, cultural
differences, etc.
Make sure that learning experiences are interesting for the child and provide time
for physical outdoor play active indoor music and movement and letting off
steam.
Assist children to learn basic social skills by modelling how to approach other
children and join in their games.
Use “I messages” to encourage empathy for others to assist in conflict resolution
skills
Use “Stop, Look and Listen” strategies, to help children learn to reflect and
reason about more cooperative ways to achieve their goal.
Ensure that aggressive outbursts are not condoned or given in to, but are
attended to firmly. This indicates to the child that this is not acceptable
behaviour.
For children who are showing inappropriate and consistent levels of aggressive
behaviour in the 3 – 5 age group:
•
•
•
•
Record observations which show strategies used with the child.
Look for successful strategies and encourage parents to use them at home.
Talk with parents about the importance of not allowing very aggressive behaviour
to become a pattern.
If the problem appears serious and persistent it is important to refer the family to
the support services linked to child care, and on to health professionals such as a
clinical psychologist for assessment and management advice.
In the case where a child is consistently using inappropriate behaviour and all other
avenues have been explored staff will need to consult with parents to discuss the
approach to be taken.
Set an agenda with parents before you start.
Consider the following:
•
Share facts and observations.
12
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
•
•
•
•
•
•
Share current strategies for dealing with the problem at the centre.
Parents share their concerns and thoughts and possible reasons for the
behaviour.
Share any additional insights.
Brainstorm solutions and strategies together for the centre and home.
Develop a plan of action for the best solution.
Set a date to meet again to evaluate the effectiveness of the plan.
If parents refuse to meet, write to them about your concerns and keep a copy of your
letter.
Staff can assist children to regulate their behaviour while at the centre, but this is
best done alongside positive parental modelling at home. Intervention and support
for families with children who have consistently aggressive behaviour can be most
helpful before a child starts school.
Biting
Biting is common in groups of children especially toddlers. They are becoming more
aware of other children but do not yet have the words to express their wishes, needs
and frustrations. Children over the age of three with language as a tool to express
their needs and feelings seldom bite. Children are more likely to bite if they are
teething, frustrated or tired and over stimulated. Biting often worries and upsets both
the parents of the child that was bitten and the parents of the child that did the biting.
How to handle biting:
•
Express strong disapproval when biting occurs and comfort the child that was
bitten.
•
Be aware of which children are likely to bite, for example when they are teething
or overtired. Divert the child and prevent biting where possible.
•
Ensure enough space for toddlers to have freedom of movement and enough
toys to minimise conflict.
13
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
BROKEN TOY POLICY/PROCEDURE
Rational
If toys become broken or damaged they pose a health and safety risk to the children
in our care.
Aim
To ensure that our service provides consistent high quality care that meets the needs
and expectations of parents and children enrolled.
Policy
Toys bring delight, fun and learning to children, but they can also be a source of
injury.
•
Check that toys are in good repair and free of sharp edges, pinch points,
splinters or broken parts.
•
Repair or discard broken toys immediately so that scratches, cuts and scrapes
are avoided.
•
Check caution when purchasing toys with small parts for young children. Only
age appropriate toys and equipment will be purchased.
•
Avoid the possibility of chocking by supervising very carefully when children are
using small objects such as crayons, marbles, small bolts and beautiful junk!
•
Ensure that young children do not have access to toys with strings or cords
longer than 6" (15 cm) to prevent strangulation.
•
Think about using festive streamers rather than balloons which can break and
lodge in children's throats.
•
Avoid toy boxes with lids as these can cause injury by falling and pinching.
•
Teach children to replace toys in baskets, plastic tubs, cupboards or shelves to
eliminate tripping and falling over scattered items
Procedure
1. Staff are to check equipment as they set up on a daily basis.
2. Staff are to remove any broken toys immediately and discard them.
3. Any equipment that is in need of repair is to be stored away and inaccessible
to children.
4. Repair of equipment is to be written up in the maintenance register.
14
Created January 2008
Reviewed July 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
BURGLARY PROCEDURE
Procedure
1. Call Police
2. If you suspect that the intruders could still be in the building DO NOT ENTER.
Your personal safety is important
3. Ensure nothing is disturbed (if possible)
4. Check and list missing items
5. Notify the Director of the Centre
6. Ensure that the Centre is secured (if possible) against further intrusion
7. Keep children away from the scene
8. Write up report, detailing everything you saw and did from when you arrived
at the Centre until the time of writing.
15
Created January 2008
Reviewed July 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
CHILD ABUSE
Rational
Children have a right to care and protection; and it is the centre’s responsibility to act
in the interest of the child.
Children need right to care, safety & personal privacy; counseling & support in the
event of abuse.
Parents need to feel assured every effort has been made to ensure their child is not
in danger of abuse;
Need counseling and support in the event of abuse.
Staff need to meet legal obligations to report suspected child abuse; allegations
against staff to be kept confidential unless substantiated; counseling and support in
the event of an unsubstantiated allegations.
Management need to meet legal obligations to report suspected child abuse; need
clear guidelines and lines of support from Department for Family and Community
Services if abuse is suspected.
Legislation
Children’s Protection ACT 1993 ; the Department for Family and Community
Services requirements re reporting of abuse.
Policy
Your Kids Our Kids Child Care 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 Department for Family and Community Services’ guidelines
set down in “Reporting Child Abuse” when dealing with any allegations of abuse or
neglect of children, to ensure the child’s and other children’s protection.
The Centre believes it also has a responsibility to its employees to defend
their right to confidentiality unless allegations of abuse against them are
substantiated.
How policy will be implemented (Specific Policies & Procedures):
•
Information about reporting child Abuse is held at the Centre and must be
read by staff and is available to parents of children attending the Centre.
•
The licensee ensures responsibilities in relation to allegations of child abuse
and the need to report it are understood clearly by all staff
•
Staff members will attend or update training held in relation to mandatory
reporting of child abuse.
16
Created January 2008
Reviewed July 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
COMPLAINTS POLICY
Rational
If any aspect of our service makes you unhappy you have the right to bring it to our
attention. The Director and staff welcome any suggestions as this feedback assists
us in maintaining a quality child care service.
Aim
To ensure that our service provides consistent high quality care that meets the needs
and expectations of parents and children enrolled.
Policy
Parents and community members are welcome to:
a)
b)
c)
Raise any concerns they may have with the centre.
Make suggestions.
Appeal an action or decision made by the centre.
The Role of DOCS in handling complaints:
Parents, staff and the community also have the right to make a complaint to DOCS if
they are concerned about our service.
If DOCS receives a complaint about our service, an officer will investigate the
complaint in order to determine whether the service is in breach of the regulations.
Procedure – How to Make a Complaint
Informal complaints or suggestions are made verbally and relate to simple and
straight forward complaints.
a) Have a chat with the staff member concerned.
b) Usually such complaints can be resolved on the spot or during the day.
c) If the staff member does not have the knowledge or authority to deal with your
complaint, the staff member will pass on the complaint to the Director.
d) You will be kept informed of the progress of your complaint.
Formal complaints are made verbally or in writing when the issue is of a complex
and serious nature.
These complaints are to be referred to the Director.
a) All complaints are taken seriously and are followed up.
b) An incident report will be completed by the Director and any staff member that
may be involved.
c) The focus will be on the problem rather than on the person who makes the
complaint or on the staff member(s) concerned.
d) All issues raised will be treated confidentially and be dealt with promptly.
17
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
COMPUTER USAGE (Children) POLICY
Rational
The Centre recognises the importance of computer awareness and skills for the
children.
Aims
To allow children to develop problem solving skills, perseverance and fine motor
control, as well as develop basic skills relating to computer use including mouse
operation and opening files.
To provide children with opportunities to access information through this medium and
to experiment with technology in their play.
To teach children the importance of electronic media using guidelines of usage,
balancing with other physical and visual activities.
To ensure that the computer is regarded with the same respect as other equipment,
and is maintained and well cared for.
Resources
Guidelines for the classification of films and computer games 2005 www.oflc.gov.au.
Young media Australia, Fact Sheet, December 2005, www.oflc.gov.au
NCAC – Computers In Childcare (extract from Putting Children First Newsletter,
Issue 27, September 2008, Pages 14-15)
Procedure
Children will use a variety of computer programs designed to increase their
computing skills as well as language and mathematical skills, with adult supervision.
This will form part of the formal program for these groups.
The computers will be available on a rotation basis, where-by all children will have
the support to use the computer. A list will be located near the computer.
Programs installed and used at the Centre will be of an educational nature and will
not include aggression, violence or other inappropriate material.
The Centre will endeavour to increase the range of programs available to children.
18
Created January 2008
Reviewed August 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
CENTRE ENVIRONMENT POLICY
Aim
To ensure that the centre environment is safe and healthy at all times.
Resources
Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000
Children’s Services Regulation 2004 (CL 47/48)
Policy/Procedure
Housekeeping standards and safety checks
A safety checklist is completed for the playground each morning. Potential hazards
are removed and any equipment needing maintenance is removed for repairs.
An effort is made to keep the centre non-cluttered. All shelves are kept free of any
materials hazardous to children. Heavy materials are not stored on shelves
accessible to children.
Staff immediately clean any spills on the floor. Staff are alert to the toilet floor being
wet and slippery, mop floor accordingly, warn and closely supervise children when
the floor is wet.
Any issues regarding repairs and maintenance of the centre building and grounds are
promptly reported to the Licensee and recorded in the maintenance book.
All smoke detectors are checked annually and all fire extinguishers and blankets are
checked six monthly.
A general pest treatment is conducted annually when children are not present at the
centre.
Storage of poisons/hazardous substances in the centre
All poisonous / hazardous chemicals and cleaning agents are stored in locked
cupboards and are inaccessible to children at all times. No cleaning chemical is left in
a place where it is within children’s reach. Material safety data sheets for chemicals
stored or used at the centre are kept at the centre.
Non-Smoking and Other Drugs
The centre and its grounds are a non-smoking zone at all times.
The Centre will comply with the Occupational Health & Safety Act 2000.
Clause 48 Children services Regulations 2004.
19
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
PREVENTING BURNS/ELECTRIC SHOCKS
The centre has ducted air conditioning to maintain a comfortable temperature at all
times throughout the year.
All plug sockets are fitted with childproof covers.
All electrical equipment is kept out of children’s reach. Staff closely supervise the CD
player and television when in used. Staff ensure that all electrical cords are wound up
so that no part is hanging and within children’s reach. Where possible cords are
contained in the wall cavity.
All hot water taps in children’s washbasins are turned off, no hot water access to
children in their bathroom.
Hot drinks are not consumed in the playroom during play times, where there is the
potential for scalding.
20
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
CHILD HEALTH POLICY
Aim
To promote, encourage and sustain a high level of health and hygiene practices that
reflect current community standards and are in accordance with relevant government
guidelines.
To ensure that all children are cared for in a safe and healthy environment.
To provide a safe and healthy working environment for all staff.
To inform parents and staff about health issues and methods to control infections.
Resources
Children Services Regulations 2004 ( CL67)
Staying Healthy In Childcare 4th Edition
Procedure
•
All staff will observe established health and hygiene practices and
procedures.
•
All adults entering the confines of the centre are advised that the consumption
of:
Alcohol
Unlawful substances
Tobacco or any other substance smoked
will not be tolerated within the childcare centre at any time.
•
Sufficient staff undertake a safe food-handling course in order to minimise
health risks associated with food handling procedures.
Children attending child care centres, especially children less than two years old,
have a higher rate of infectious diseases, mainly respiratory and diarrhea illnesses,
than children cared for at home. Most of these illnesses have no long term affect on
the health of the child but in the short term cause distress for the child and problems
for parents and staff in caring for the child. It is important to reduce the rate of
infection as much as possible.
The centre recognises the difficulties faced by working parents with sick children,
however the centre does not have the resources to care for sick children and it is
unfair to expose other children to infection. Parents are encouraged to consider
emergency care arrangements before the need arises.
Staff caring for young children are exposed to the infectious diseases of childhood.
Some of these, such as measles and rubella can be prevented by vaccination. For
other diseases such as cytomegalovirus, chicken pox and gastroenteritis there is no
vaccine but the risk can be reduced by close attention to hygiene. Staff should be
particularly careful in early pregnancy.
21
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
CHILD PROTECTION POLICY
Rational
Child abuse occurs in our society within all cultural, occupational and socio-economic
groups. Children’s services have a duty of care to ensure the safety, well being and
welfare of every child in their care. This involves having a clear understanding of
their role and responsibilities in regard to the care and protection of children.
The centre approach to child protection is based on the following principles:
•
•
•
•
Children have the right to feel safe, secure and under the protection of
responsible, caring, trustworthy, adults at all times.
Children will be respected and in no way degraded, endangered, exploited,
intimidated or harmed psychologically or physically.
Warm words and loving touch are basic needs throughout life. The loss of
spontaneous affection would be detrimental to both children and staff.
Physical contact is part of the nurturing of children and helps create and
sustain trusting relationships and adds to feelings of security.
Policy Overview
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
This service is committed to child protection and child safe environments.
A child is any persons aged from birth to eighteen years (UNICEF).
The centre ensures that families are informed about its policies and procedures
on child protection
Staff are aware of their responsibilities in relation to child protection
All staff, volunteers and students are informed of and follow the centre’s policies
and procedures on child protection
Familiar staff know the particular protection needs of children in their care
Staff are aware of the current processes and procedures for handling the specific
protection needs of all children in their care
Staff are receptive to information families provide about their child and link this
information with their own observations and centre policies to promote the
protection of each child
Staff regularly review and evaluate policies and procedures relating to child
protection based on information from recognised authorities
The centre has a system for monitoring staff compliance with its child protection
policies and procedures
The centre has a process for supporting families of children with specific
protection needs
Staff are appropriately trained to promote compliance with the centre’s child
protection policies
The centre provides families with a wide range of information on child protection
issues
The centre is open to referrals from support agencies and works with them to
develop programs for children with protection needs
Staff regularly access information and/or training on child protection
22
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
•
The centre consistently seeks ways to improve standards on child protection
practices, particularly in light of new legislation or information
Aims
•
To promote an awareness that child abuse and neglect exists in our society in
many forms including:
PHYSICAL
EMOTIONAL
SEXUAL
NEGLECT
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
•
To ensure that all staff are aware of their duty of care in relation to the protection
of Children and act in accordance with the NSW Interagency Guidelines for Child
Protection Intervention, for recognising, responding to, and notifying of child
abuse and neglect.
•
To ensure that all staff are aware of their responsibilities under the Ombudsman
Amendment (Child Protection and Community Services) Act and to act in
accordance with the report procedures for responding to allegations made
against
staff, regarding child abuse and neglect.
•
To ensure that all employers implement The Commission for Children and Young
People Act when employing new staff into positions which have contact with
children.
Legislative Requirements
Child Care Regulation 2003 (and subsequent amendments)
Child Care Act 2002
Public Health Act 2005
Children and Young People and Child Guardian Act 2000
Occupational Health & Safety Act 1989
National Childcare Accreditation Council
Jurisdiction
NSW
Responsible authority
Department of Community Services
Website
www.community.nsw.gov.au
Resources
Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 covers activities
relating to the safety, welfare and wellbeing of children and young people.
The Ombudsman Amendment (Child Protection and Community Services) Act
1998 covers activities relating to the safety, welfare and wellbeing of children and
young people.
23
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
The Commission for Children and Young People Act 1998 establishes the
Commission for Children and Young People (CCYP) as an independent organisation
with an aim to make NSW a better place for children and young people. One of the
major functions of the CCYP is to facilitate screening to determine the suitability of
people for child-related employment.
The Child Protection (Prohibited Employment) Act 1998 prohibits the
employment, in child related employment, of a person found guilty of certain serious
sex offences.
Informing families about our policies and procedures on child
protection
The centre will include information in all new enrollments, enquiries and
newsletters informing the families that they have access to our policies and
procedures regarding child protection. We welcome comments and feedback from
all families and care givers regarding our policies and procedures.
Posters will be displayed in our common areas and near sign in books informing
families that they have access to all of the centre’s policies and procedures.
Staff awareness of their responsibilities in relation to child protection
Strategies for staff and child protection
Staff in children’s services can be open to allegations of reportable conduct
unless care is taken to implement protective strategies for staff and children.
It is the responsibility of the center’s Director/Authorised Supervisor to
carefully monitor the adequacy of the supervision of children throughout the
day and ensure that the following strategies are implemented.
Individuals or groups of children are not be permitted to be withdrawn
into areas where they are not visible by other staff members, or taken
into rooms that can be locked.
Permanent and temporary child-care staff are to be directed to ensure
that they at all times remain readily accessible and within the visibility
of other staff while with the children.
Students and volunteers are to be directed to ensure that they are
never alone with children in a direct, un-supervised capacity.
Casual staff are to be directed to ensure they are not alone with
children in a direct, un-supervised capacity until they have received
successful employment screening.
Casual staff are to at all times remain readily accessible and within the
visibility of other staff while with the children.
While there is a child on the premises of a service, there is to be a
minimum of 2 staff on the premises. It is the responsibility of the
Director to ensure that rosters meet this requirement and it is the
responsibility of all staff to ensure this requirement is upheld.
24
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Parents are to be informed of the procedures staff use to toilet
children. Changing of babies should take place within view of other
adults.
Parents should be made aware that it may be necessary to physically
restrain an out of control child who may be compromising the safety of
him/herself, other children or staff, or to isolate the child from others
for short periods of time.
Up-to-date developmental records on all children are to be kept.
Relevant conversations with parents that may relate to a child’s
behaviour change (eg. parents separating, new baby in the family,
moving house etc) are to be noted in the developmental record.
Staff should be aware of their own level of tolerance and stress factors
and acknowledge that there may be some children that are found to
be more difficult to relate to than others. Team members are to be
requested to assist in the appropriate management of the children in
these instances.
Staff should ensure that they are aware of the individual child’s stage
of development and particular needs and plan the curriculum
accordingly.
Staff should work with parents to develop and record appropriate
procedures for managing toilet practises and behaviour management.
Mandatory reporting requirements
Acts of reportable conduct can occur in our society within all cultural, occupational
and socio-economic groups.
Who is mandated to
notify?
NSW
What is to be notified?
A person who, in the
course of his or her
professional work or
other paid employment
delivers children’s
services to children; and
a person who holds a
management position in
an organisation, the
duties of which include
direct responsibility for, or
direct supervision of
children’s services.
Reasonable grounds to
suspect that a child is at
risk of harm; and those
grounds arise during the
course of or from the
person’s work
Maltreatment types for
which it is mandatory
to report
Physical abuse
Sexual abuse
Emotional/psychological
abuse
Neglect
Exposure to family
violence
25
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Indicators of Abuse
There are many indicators of child abuse and neglect. The following is a guide only.
One indicator on its own may not imply abuse or neglect. Each indicator needs to be
considered in the context of other indicators and the child’s circumstances.
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 behaviours, 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
26
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
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 behaviours
• other behavioural 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 scape-goating
• 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
What is domestic and family violence?
Domestic or family violence occurs when one person in a “relationship” uses
violent or abusive behaviour to control another.
The behaviour which may be classified as domestic or family violence
includes:
• Physical abuse
• Damage to property
• Sexual abuse
27
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
•
•
•
•
Verbal abuse
Harassment or intimidation
Financial abuse, or
Threatening any of the above.
Domestic violence does not just occur between spouses.
•
•
•
•
Spousal — including defacto, biological parents of a child or same sex
couples
Intimate personal — two people in an established relationship (does
not have to be sexual)
Family — related by blood or marriage, or culturally related
Informal care — unpaid carer who assists with day to day living.
Children’s issues
Exposure to domestic violence has a profound and long-term effect on children.
Recent research indicates that children between 0–4 yrs show measurable
neurological delays in brain development when witnessing violence, and the
psychological effects are the same as if they had directly experienced the violence
themselves.5 This is the age where we normally assume children don’t know what is
happening. In fact, infants show clear disturbances in response to spousal violence
from at least six weeks of age.6
Child witnesses of domestic violence are found to develop post-traumatic stress
disorder symptoms in the same way as child victims of war or natural disasters. That
is, they are more likely to have dreams and recurring memories related to the event,
show hyper-vigilance, sleep disturbances, psychosomatic disorders, withdrawal and
anxiety, and have a lower level of cognitive performance.
Other behavioural indicators can include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Nervousness and anxiety
Withdrawn behaviour
Adjustment problems, few interests and poor school performance
Enuresis (bed wetting)
Psychosomatic illnesses (asthma, stomach aches, headaches etc.)
Excessive cruelty to animals
Aggressive behaviour and language
Pseudo-maturity
Boys imitating aggressive behaviours, bullying/ abusing their mothers.
Definitions
An employee is:
• Anyone employed by Your Kids Our Kids Children's Centre
• Anyone from outside the child care centre engaged to provide services to
children, e.g. volunteers, contractors, students.
Child Abuse means:
• Assault (including physical and sexual assault) of a child, or
• Ill treatment or neglect of a child, or
• Exposing or subjecting a child to behaviour that psychologically harms the child,
• Whether or not, in any case, with the consent of the child.
28
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Documentation
It is essential that the centre maintains well kept records to prepare and support its
ability to make a report. 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, it is important to have as much information as possible. The operator
will ask for the following information;
Details of the child or young person and family composition:
Child’s Name:
Child’s DOB:
Child’s Address:
Phone:
Siblings:
Natural Mother:
Natural Father:
Address:
Phone:
CALLERS DETAILS:
Name:
Position:
Address:
Phone:
Fax:
CALLER’S CONCERNS/REASON FOR CALL:
Has anything occurred that has prompted you to call today?
Does the caller have a concern for the immediate safety of the child or young
person? If yes, why?
29
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
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.
13 36 27
If you fear for the child’s immediate safety then call 000 or your local police station.
It is important that when making a notification that the notifier asks the
following questions in relation to notification;
•
•
•
•
Name of person 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?
Who to report to
Information relating to child protection notifications, investigations and
substantiations, broken down by the different States and Territories is available from
the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare's publication Child Protection Australia.
The Australasian Legal Information Institute, a joint facility of the Law Faculties at the
University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and the University of New South Wales
(UNSW), provides free internet access to Australian legal materials:
http://www.austlii.edu.au/.
Telephone numbers to contact for each State and Territory to report incidences of
child abuse are available at: http://www.aifs.gov.au/nch/reporting.html
New South Wales
Department of Community Services
DoCS Central Office
Locked Bag 28,
Ashfield NSW 1800
Ph: (02) 9716 2222
Fax: (02) 9798 5486
DX21212 Ashfield
http://www.community.nsw.gov.au/
To report instances of child abuse
•
The Office of Children, Families and Parenting: 132 111 (24 hours)
The Crimes Amendment (Child Protection - Physical Mistreatment) Act 2001 comes
into effect on 5 December 2002. The amendment sets limits on the force used by
parents to physically punish their children and clarifies the legal defence of 'lawful
correction'. It aims to reduce the harm caused to children through excessive physical
punishment. Under the amendment, it will be considered unreasonable to:
•
Use force on a child above the shoulders
•
Use force that causes harm that lasts for more than a short time below the
shoulders.
30
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Community education activities under the title 'Remember - there's a limit' have been
organised to inform parents, carers and workers about the amendment.
•
A poster to alert parents to the new law;
•
A brochure to explain the law to parents and direct them to sources on child
rearing that will be available in 10 versions: English, a version for Pacific
Islander people, a version for Indigenous people, Arabic, Turkish, Chinese,
Vietnamese, Spanish, Croatian and Serbian.
More information can be found on the NSW Parenting Centre's web site at
http://www.parenting.nsw.gov.au/limits/.
Notification of those involved in Children’s Services
A situation may arise where someone involved in the provision of care for children in
a children’s service has witnessed, or has suspicion of another person involved in the
provision of care for children in a children’s services, of being the one that is abusing
children. The same definition of abuse apply to those involved in children’s services
as they do for children’s suspected of abuse outside the service.
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 their State or Territory
Authority.
The same details must be provided 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. 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, the service should contact their State or Territory
Authority 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.
Procedural Fairness
The investigation and decision-making processes that are in place are to ensure the
safety and well-being of children and employees.
The centre will act fairly, confidentially and without bias towards any
allegation and subsequent investigation. All investigations will be carried out
or determined by someone deemed not to have a conflict of interest
31
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
concerning the case. All investigations will be carried out without undue delay,
with the person subject to the investigation given an opportunity to respond to
the allegation.
The rights of each employee against whom an allegation is made will be
paramount.
Throughout the investigation, support will be offered to the employee. The
employee also has a right to have support/independent person present during
any meetings or interviews held as part of the investigation. This person may
be a Union Representative or someone of the employee’s choice.
This will be offered by Directors/Authorised Supervisor and will be arranged if
the employee so wishes.
All persons involved in the investigation are bound by confidentiality. All
parties will be informed and reminded by this requirement. Any breach of
confidentiality by any persons will be subject to disciplinary action under the
centre Discipline Policy.
The outcome of each investigation will be supported by documentation and
records taken during the course of the investigation.
Any employee or parent dissatisfied with the process of the investigation or
the outcome has a right to appeal or review. Appeals/reviews can be lodged
internally with the Directors/Authorised Supervisor. The staff member/care
provider also has the right to lodge a complaint with the State and Territory
Authorities
Directors/Authorised Supervisor may consult with the State and Territory
Authorities should it be necessary to undertake disciplinary action arising from
an investigation. Any disciplinary action will be the responsibility of the
Directors/Authorised Supervisor.
In the event that, after thorough investigation, it is concluded the employee is
innocent of any inappropriate behaviour relating to the allegation, all parties
will be informed in writing of this finding. The employee will be re-instated to
their position held prior to the allegation. All team members and colleagues of
the employee will be informed of the outcome and the centre will offer team
building support if required.
32
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Documentation and records
All documentation regarding allegations, investigations and notifications of suspected
acts of reportable conduct (including those made to the State and Territory
Authorities) are strictly confidential. Files created to maintain this information will be
kept indefinitely and confidentially with access restricted to the Directors/Authorised
Supervisor. These files will be kept in the “Restricted Access” are of the centre
Records.
The centre Directors/Authorised Supervisor is responsible for keeping confidential
records and documentation relating to the child/ren about whom an allegation is
made on the premises while the child/ren remains enrolled. These records will be
kept on a separate file in a locked filing cabinet accessible by the Centre
Directors/Authorised Supervisor, At no time will the person who is the subject of the
allegation be named in the child’s records.
33
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Helping the Child
When a child tells you that they have been abused, the child may be feeling scared,
guilty, ashamed, angry and powerless. You, in turn, may feel a sense of outrage,
disgust, sadness, anger and sometimes disbelief.
However, it is important for you to remain calm and in control of your feelings in order
to reassures the child that something will be done to keep him or her safe.
Things you can do to show your care and
concern for the child:
•
listen carefully to what the child is saying
•
acknowledge that it is hard to talk about such
things
•
You will not be helping the child if you:
• avoid or reject them, you might be the only other
significant adult in his or her life
• investigate further and inquire into the details of
the abuse. This should be left to an interviewer
skilled in asking such questions
tell the child that you believe them and taking
them seriously
•
make it clear that whatever has happened or
happens is not the child’s fault and that the child
is not bad
•
tell the child that you know that adults
sometimes do the wrong thing and that this has
also happened to others
•
believe, validate and support the child
•
control your expressions of panic or shock
•
reassure the child that they did the right thing
telling you (many abusers threaten children to
prevent disclosure)
• press for details beyond those that the child freely
wants to tell you. Your role is to listen to what
the child wants to tell you and not to conduct an
investigation.
• make promises to the child that you cannot keep,
eg promising not to tell anyone
• seek a medical examination or treatment unless it
is an emergency or there are serious health
risks to the child
• pressure the child to show you injuries that are
covered by clothing
•
tell the child honestly that you have a legal duty
to tell someone so that they can help stop the
abuse
•
record details of the conversation, any visible
injuries and any other observations you have
made.
• confront the parents or guardians or the alleged
perpetrator. This may place the child at further
risk eg parents may threaten the child not to
disclose and/or remove the child from a place
of safety.
34
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
All staff, volunteers and students are informed of and follow the centre’s
policies and procedures on child protection
The centre has a commitment to recruiting suitable staff/care providers for
employment/registration in its children’s services. The recruitment process is
to ascertain a preferred applicant’s suitability for a position through detailed
questioning during interviews, thorough reference checking, and preemployment screening.
Before employment or placement in the case of students and volunteers all
staff, volunteers and students will be inducted into the centre. The induction
will include Child Protection. This induction includes:
All staff are required to complete the Prohibited Persons Declaration
and all preferred applicants are required to undergo the Working with
Children Check prior to employment.
staff, volunteers and students are to read the child protection policy
staff, volunteers and students are to be familiarised with the centre’s
child protection procedures
staff, volunteers and students are to sign that they have being
inducted and are aware of the centre’s child protection policy
All staff including ancillary staff (centre cooks and administration) will
attend accredited Protective Behaviours and/or relevant Child
Protection courses, within their first year of employment.
Familiar staff are to know the particular protection needs of children in their
care
(Read in conjunction with annual child protection review)
In the case of staff needing to know particular protection needs of children in
their care, the director and staff will have a formal documented confidential
meeting. In this meeting the director and staff will use the template (located
with this policy) to identify the needs of the child. The Confidentially Policy will
be required to remind staff members of the importance of such sensitive
information. Confidentially Policy located with this policy.
Staff will be receptive to information families provide about their child and link
this information with their own observations and centre policies to promote the
protection of each child (Read in conjunction with annual child protection review)
It is important for staff at all times to be sensitive to the practices of families of
culturally diverse or indigenous backgrounds, however, this child protection
policy must be adhered to. The processes and procedures within this policy
attempt to allow for the individual differences of families.
35
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Up-to-date developmental records on all children are to be kept.
Relevant conversations with parents that may relate to a child’s
behaviour change (eg. parents separating, new baby in the family,
moving house etc) are to be noted in the developmental record.
Staff should work with parents to develop and record appropriate
procedures for managing toilet practises and behaviour management.
Parents should be made aware that it may be necessary to physically
restrain an out of control child who may be compromising the safety of
him/herself, other children or staff, or to isolate the child from others
for short periods of time.
Staff and Family Relationships
Directors should encourage all staff to keep separate their private and
professional roles. Counseling of staff by the Director regarding confidentiality
and preferential treatment may be required.
When a relationship is developed with the families of the children enrolled,
confidentiality and objectivity must be maintained.
It is the responsibility of the Director to ensure there is a clear understanding
of the difference between personal and professional roles by both parties in
such cases.
The centre is open to referrals from support agencies and works with them to
develop programs for children with protection needs (Read in conjunction with
annual child protection review)
The centre is open to referrals from government departments and community
agencies. To support child protection and strengthen parenting competencies
and confidence. We will endeavour to:
enhance family, child and youth health and well being.
prevent child abuse and neglect.
support families through major life transitions and/or crisis
develop a protection needs plan.
Extension of Licensed Numbers
An extension of the licensed numbers of the service will not normally be permitted
except in the case of an emergency in the centre. In the case of an emergency the
consent of the State and Territory Authorities will be sought to extend the licence of
the centre provided it is deemed that the staff are able to maintain the safety and
quality of the program.
36
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Sources:
Children and Young People Act 1999 (ACT)
Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 (NSW)
Community Welfare Act 1983 (NT)
Child Protection Act 1999 (Qld)
Children's Protection Act 1993 (SA)
Children, Young Persons and their Families Act 1997 (Tas)
Children, Youth and Families Act 2005 (Vic)
Children and Community Services Act 2004 (WA)
http://www.aifs.gov.au/nch/ National Child Protection Clearing House retrieved Jan
2009
http://www.napcan.org.au/ National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and
Neglect retrieved Jan 2009
http://www.unisa.edu.au/childprotection/ Australian Centre for Child Protection
retrieved Jan 2009
http://www.aihw.gov.au/ Australian Institute of Health and Welfare retrieved Jan
2009
Child Protection in the Workplace: Responding to allegations against
employees
NSW Ombudsman June 2004 3rd Edition
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) 2007. Child protection Australia
2005–06.
Child welfare series no. 40. Cat. no. CWS 28. Canberra: AIHW.
Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth April 2007
The Working with Children Check Guidelines
NSW Commission for Children and Young People April 2004
NSW Child Protection (Prohibited Employment) Act 1998 No147
NSW Children and Young Person (Care and Protection) Act 1998
NSW Commission for Children and Young People Act 1998
Improvement Plan For Child Protection
Review Details: Review in May 2010 by Centre Director, Staff Member &
P&C Member
•
•
•
The centre will regularly refer to NSW Authorities websites to access new
information regarding child protection.
The centre will regularly access the following websites to gain new
information regarding child protection.
– http://www.aifs.gov.au/nch/ National Child Protection Clearing House
– http://www.napcan.org.au/ National Association for Prevention of Child
Abuse and Neglect
– http://www.unisa.edu.au/childprotection/ Australian Centre for Child
Protection
– http://www.aihw.gov.au/ Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
Any new information gained from these sources will be reviewed against our
current policies and procedures with the involvement of staff, parents,
caregivers, children and management.
37
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
•
•
•
•
•
•
Effectiveness of current Policy and procedures will be evaluated through a
questionnaire to stakeholders (refer to questionnaire 1.1.16)
Compliance testing will be used to assess current knowledge and standard of
the child protection policy
Changes will be made in draft form and given to stakeholders to review
Final changes will be made to the Child Protection Policy and Procedures
New Child Protection Policy and Procedures implemented
Professional Development opportunities that arise due to new information
gained and feedback from stakeholders will be planned
Staff Acknowledgement
By signing this I acknowledge that I have read, understood and am prepared to abide
by the Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Centre Child Protection Policy.
Name
Signature
Position
38
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Date
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Making a Notification to NSW Authorities
A notification is an expression of concern for the child.
Staff members do not have to be able to prove that reportable conduct is occurring or
have evidence of who may be abusing the child to consider making a notification. A
notification will only be made after contacting the Director/Authorised Supervisor and
any notification must be made in conjunction with the Director/Authorised Supervisor.
It is the responsibility of NSW Authorities to carry out any investigation.
Following a notification being made records of the child remain the responsibility of
the centre staff and should not be passed onto any other person. If the NSW
Authorities officers wish to see the records they should be viewed at the centre in the
presence of the Directors/Authorised Supervisor and only removed if signed for by
the NSW Authorities officer with a stated date for return of the records to the centre.
If an interview is to be conducted at the centre the following should be adhered to:
If it is clearly apparent that the alleged abuser is not a member of the child’s
immediate family, the parents should be notified of the interview and be given
the opportunity to be present. NSW Authorities must be consulted prior to
this.
A staff member to whom the child relates will be present during the interview.
The staff member must not intervene in the process but should be present as
an observer and a support for the child.
All staff will co-operate with any investigation undertaken by NSW Authorities
and/or police.
Following the interview, the staff member must immediately write a report in the first
person, which states as well as she/he can remember what each person has said,
and forward a copy to the Director/Authorised Supervisor, marked confidential.
Note: To be read in conjunction with Child Protection Policy and Confidential Policy
39
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
CARING FOR SICK CHILDREN PROCEDURE
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Tell the director.
Separate the child from the other children and keep under adult supervision at all
times. Make sure the child is comfortable and is supervised by a staff member.
Take the child’s temperature if you think they may have a fever. A child with a
high temperature could have a febrile convulsion. That is why it is important to
bring a high temperature down.
Contact the child’s parents, or if they are unavailable, the contact person for
emergencies as listed on the enrolment form. Inform the parents or contact
person of the child’s condition, or suspected condition, and ask that the child be
picked up from the centre as soon as possible.
If you believe that the child requires medical aid, all reasonable attempts must be
made to secure that attention.
Remind a child who is coughing or sneezing to cover their mouth. Ask the child to
wash their hands afterwards.
If you wipe a nose, dispose of the tissue in a plastic-lined rubbish bin, and then
wash your hands.
If you touch a child who might be sick, avoid touching other children until after
you have washed your hands.
Keep moist skin conditions and abrasions cover.
Management of fever (temperature of more than 37.5 degree celsius) includes •
•
•
•
staff remove or loosen the child’s clothing, and place the child in a cool
place away from other children.
If the child’s temperature exceeds 38 degree Celsius, staff will administer
Paracetamol after gaining permission from parent.***
Cross check will take place to ensure that written permission in the
‘Permission for Emergency Administration of Medication’ have been
granted.
A medication record will be completed for the Paracetamol administered
and the parent will be asked to sign the record when they arrive at the
centre.
***Please note The parents/emergency contacts are contacted for verbal permission
prior to Paracetamol being administered at the centre, and need to come and collect
their child from the centre as soon as possible.
Collecting unwell Children
Prompt collection of a child from the centre ensures that the sick or injured child is
able to get medical attention and necessary rest, which cannot be adequately
provided at the centre.
The emergency contacts listed on children’s enrolment forms are asked to collect the
child if their parents cannot be contacted.
Source
Staying Healthy In Childcare 4th Edition
40
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
CLEANING ROUTINES POLICY
Rational
All staff are requested to take an equal share in cleaning responsibilities required
during the day. It is the responsibility of all staff to be aware of the cleaning duties
attached to each shift.
Aim
Resources
Staying Healthy in Childcare 4th Edition
Policy/Procedure
a) Handwashing - Frequent handwashing is the most effective method of preventing
the spread of disease. Hands should always be cleaned:
i) after toileting yourself or a child
ii) after changing nappies
iii) before and after giving first aid
iv) before giving medication
v) after wiping a child’s nose
vi) before preparing or serving food
b) Check to see that all the children's hands are washed before they eat or drink.
c) Posters which promote handwashing should be placed in prominent positions
above or close to each hand basin.
d) Hand basins should not be used for rinsing soiled clothing.
e) Toilets must be cleaned twice daily.
f) Sand pits must be covered when not in use to prevent cats from excreting in the
sand. Rake sandpits regularly.
h) Kindergarten toys are to be washed when required and disinfected.
i) Water play: the water trough must be cleaned after use.
j) Bedding is washed weekly and as necessary.
41
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Clothing Policy
Aim
With consideration to social and cultural beliefs, values, practices and traditions, the
Centre understands that the way in which a child is dressed for care can and may
affect them in many contexts, and may assist and/or inhibit their independence
throughout the day. Staff members will respect each child’s and family’s individual
decisions, beliefs, values, practices and traditions. The safety and independence of
the child is paramount at all times.
Sources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004 www.community.gov.au
The Cancer Council www.cancercouncil.com.au
National Child Care Accreditation Council: Quality Practices Guide 1st edition 2005
www.ncac.gov.au
WorkCover NSW www.workcover.nsw.gov.au
Legislative Requirements
Children Services Regulation 2004,
Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001
National Childcare Accreditation Council
Policy
Children:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Children should be clothed in an appropriate manner which will allow them to
explore and play freely and not restrict them using equipment while at play
Clothing should also allow easy access for toileting i.e. elasticised trousers,
track pants – rather than buttons, zips, belts etc.
Children will be encouraged by staff members to use aprons for messy play
and art experiences to protect their 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 outdoor play please refer to sun safety policy for further directives on hats and clothing.
Child clothing should accommodate weather conditions. I.e. be loose and cool
in summer to prevent overheating 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 – please refer to the rest and sleep
policy for more details on appropriate clothing for sleep.
Clean and appropriate spare clothing will be made available to children
should it be needed.
All clothing and belongings must be clearly labeled with the child's name.
42
Created January 2008
Reviewed July 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Staff
Staff members are positive role models for children. All staff members are required to
wear the centre’s uniform t-shirt, smart, casual black trousers and present clean for
work each day. The centre’s uniform t-shirt has sleeves (pursuant to the Sun
Protection Policy). Closed in shoes that are supportive and non-slip must be worn.
• Staff must set an example by wearing a sunhat (minimum 10cm brimmed hat)
and sunscreen when outside AT ALL TIMES.
• Staff must be aware of their obligations under the OHS Act 2000 and OHS
Regulations 2001 and conditions of employment to abide by Centre policy.
43
Created January 2008
Reviewed July 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY
CONSIDERATIONS:
Philosophy
everyone associated with the Centre (staff, parents/guardians, and
children) has the right to the protection of personal information.
Legislation
Laws relating to protection of privacy and confidentiality; duty of
confidentiality arising from contract with parent; to whom and when
information must be disclosed.
Children
need confidentiality re sensitive health issues, learning difficulties,
behavior difficulties.
Parents
need security that private information given to the Centre re income
levels, custodial arrangements etc. are kept confidential; ability to
speak to staff re confidential matters that impact on child’s care.
Staff
need personal records, details, appraisals treated as confidential;
clear guidelines re what they should/shouldn’t disclose about children
and families and to whom; Freedom to raise personal issues that
impact on workplace.
Management need to make decisions about confidential issues; to obtain relevant
personal details from clients.
POLICY STATEMENT:
Your Kids Our Kids Child Care Centre protects the privacy and confidentiality of
individuals by ensuring that all records and information about individual children,
families, staff and management are kept in a secure place and are only accessed by
or disclosed to those people who need the information to fulfil their responsibilities at
the Centre or have a legal right to know.
How policy will be implemented (Specific Policies & Procedures):
•
Every employee is provided with clear written guidelines detailing:
- what information is to be kept confidential
- what confidential information they may have access to in order to
fulfil their responsibility and how
- this information may be accessed.
- who has a legal right to know what information.
•
Confidential conversations that staff have with parents, or the Director has
with staff members will be conducted in a quiet area away from other
children.
Personal Forms and information will be stored securely.
Information about staff members will only be accessed by the Director,
Staff Liaison Officer/ or Owner and individual staff member concerned.
All matters discussed with staff will be treated as confidential.
No member of staff may give information or evidence on matters relating
to children and/or their families to anyone other than the custodial
parent/guardian when that information has been obtained in the course of
•
•
•
•
44
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
employment at the Centre. Exceptions may apply regarding information
about children when subpoenaed to appear before a court of law.
Notwithstanding these requirements confidential information may be
exchanged in the normal course of work with other staff members at the
Centre and may be given to the Your Kids Our Kids Child Care Centre 6
Metcalfe Avenue Moorebank NSW 2170
Director / Licensee when this is reasonably needed for the proper operation of the
Centre and the wellbeing of users and staff.
•
•
Staff will protect the privacy and confidentiality of other staff members by
not relating personal information about another staff member to anyone
either within or outside the Centre.
Students/people on work experience/volunteers will not make
staff/children or families at the Centre an object for discussion outside the
Centre (e.g. College, school, home etc.), nor will they at any time use
family names in recorded or tutorial information.
Confidentiality of Children’s records
•
•
•
•
•
Each child’s developmental records including checklists, observations,
parent and child input forms are to remain strictly confidential.
The records are to be seen and used by staff of Your Kids Our Kids Child
Care Centre, for the purpose of planning and evaluating each child’s
development.
Should specialist support be obtained these may be looked at with the
Directors approval.
They are to remain the property of Your Kids Our Kids Child Care Centre
and are not to leave the premises.
Parents/Guardians may at any time have access to their child’s records at
their request.
45
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
CURRICULUM POLICIES
Rational
Aims
The program is planned to reflect the centre’s philosophy and goals and to foster
each child’s
•
•
•
•
•
intellectual development
emotional, personal and social development, independence and self esteem
language development
creative development and aesthetic awareness
fine and gross motor skills
The curriculum encompasses all the learning experiences and routines that occur at
the centre throughout the day. There is a balanced and developmentally appropriate
program based on comprehensive individual developmental records for each child
which provides for learning experiences for
•
•
•
•
•
more emphasis on the process than the product
active and quiet activities
indoor and outdoor activities
whole group, small group and individual activities
structured and unstructured activities to provide choices and encourage children
to take on new challenges and problem solving
• fine and gross motor activities
• an anti-bias approach, giving all children access to all activities including children
with special needs
• a multicultural perspective, respecting each family’s culture and language, looking
at similarities as well as differences and valuing diversity.
• a partnership with parents.
The daily and weekly program is regularly evaluated in the light of stated goals.
PROGRAMMING
The program comprises experiences for individual children suggested by observation
and records of each child’s interest and developmental level.
A group of children is observed each week in rotation and the program is based on
these observations and checklists.
The program includes group time experiences, indoor and outdoor activities and daily
routines.
The written program is a daily record of the curriculum and is displayed for parents to
read and parents participation is encouraged.
ANTI-BIAS CURRICULUM
The goals of the anti-bias curriculum are:
To help children develop positive gender, racial, cultural, and individual identities,
within a larger society and to recognise their membership in many different
groups.
46
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
To foster respect, empathy and appreciation for the diverse ways in which other
people live.
A cross-cultural perspective should be integrated into all the areas of the programme.
To encourage a willingness to include others and to develop the skills to recognise
and resist unfair treatment of others.
To acknowledge that children bring specific knowledge, skills, attitudes, values and
language through membership of a particular cultural group.
To respect the differing cultural background of each child and encourage the
maintenance of that culture.
To utilise the specific skills of staff, children and families.
Learning about racial and cultural differences and similarities:
a) To encourage children to be aware of their own and others’ physical
characteristics and cultural beliefs and to be comfortable with differences.
b) To enable children to feel pride, about their racial identity.
Learning about disabilities:
a) To provide an educational environment in which all children can succeed.
b) To help children with disabilities to develop autonomy, independence,
competency, confidence and pride.
To help children to develop the ability to interact knowledgeably, comfortably, and
fairly with people having various disabilities.
Learning about gender identity:
a) To encourage children to develop a non-stereotype view of gender roles. To
develop children’s skills for recognising sexist stereotypes and behaviors.
b) To help children develop a healthy gender identity through inclusive programming
and appropriate role modelling.
Working with families:
a) To actively encourage and support the participation of families in their children’s
programme and in the management structure of the centre.
b) To develop ways of communicating with parents whose first language is not
English, or those with special needs, for example, deafness.
Integrating an anti-bias curriculum:
a) To increase awareness of the staff attitudes about gender, race, ethnicity, and
different physical abilities.
b) To plan ways of introducing the Anti-Bias curriculum in the programme.
c) To provide opportunities for ongoing professional development and training to
support the implementation of the Anti-Bias Curriculum.
SPECIAL EDUCATION
Where observations identify particular talents of children, the centre through flexible
programming will endeavour to provide relevant extension activities.
Where problems are identified that are beyond the scope of the centre, the centre will
assist the family in accessing the appropriate resources.
47
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Where possible staff should consult resource/support people to help them develop
appropriate individual program.
The centre will endeavour to co-operate with any management plans instituted by
external professionals.
Staff are encouraged to further their education in the area of Special Needs where
appropriate.
BOOKS TOYS AND EQUIPMENT
The Centre aims to provide a wide range of books and equipment which
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
are interesting and stimulating,
appropriate and safe,
are well maintained,
support the daily programming and the Anti-Bias Policy,
staff use to extend the children.
Books
a) Books are central to the centre’s daily programming.
b) Children are encouraged to enjoy reading through observing staff and parents
enjoying and caring for books.
ELECTRONIC MEDIA
Television and Video
a) Apart from wet weather, videos are used where they provide integral support to
the curriculum.
b) As part of the daily routine children watch Playschool. Other activities are
available for children not wishing to watch television or interact with the television
program.
c) Staff are actively involved in watching television and video with the children.
Audio
a)
b)
c)
d)
Children are encouraged to appreciate a variety of music from all cultures.
Noise level should be appropriate.
Music should be seen as part of the curriculum not as background music.
Music incursions are encouraged and should be supported by use of audio
facilities.
a) Story tapes are to be used in small groups and as planned.
48
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
COMMUNICATION POLICY
Rational
The centre values the participation of families at all levels and at all times in their
children’s care and education and actively encourages such participation.
Aim
We aim to provide an environment where families feel comfortable discussing
matters concerning their child reinforced with written communication.
Resources
Chart 1.1 – Face to Face Meetings
Chart 1.2 – Teacher to Parent Communication
Chart 1.3 – Parent to Teacher – Written Communication
Policy
Parent Involvement
Parents are involved in policy development.
Parents and families are welcome to visit the centre at any time to observe and
participate.
Written Communication with Parents
a) Daily comments on lunch and sleeping times, other comments if needed.
b) The weekly and group programme with individual and group objectives is
displayed.
c) The weekly menu will be displayed.
d) A newsletter will be produced quarterly.
e) There is a notice board with minutes from meetings at the centre and general
information.
f) On commencement at the centre each family will be given a copy of the Parent
Information Booklet.
Other Communication
At the beginning of every year each group holds a function for parents and staff to
meet each other and to discuss the plans for the year. We aim to have several social
functions throughout the year, for example, morning teas.
Parents are encouraged to talk to staff at arrival and departure times.
Children’s Records
Developmental records are kept monitoring the children’s progress and can be
discussed with a staff member at any time. Portfolio recordings and documentation
can be sighted by parents/guardians at any time. There will be two parent/teacher
evenings annually.
49
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Parent Library
A collection of information of interest to parents is available for borrowing and fact
sheets are provided regularly with the newsletter.
50
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
COMMUNICATION PROCEDURE
Chart 1.1
Face to Face Meetings
Parent or
Teacher
Requests
Meeting
Is An
Interpreter
Needed?
Yes
Book
Interpreter
Yes
Organise
Follow up
No
Book
Meeting
Discuss
Issues
Is Follow
up
required?
No
Document
Meeting & Any
Outcomes
51
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Chart 1.2
Teacher to Parent Communication
Teacher
Identifies
Communication
Need
Paper
Or
Verbal
Verbal
Organise Time
for Parent/
Teacher Meeting
See
Chart
1.1
Paper
Create
Letter/
Flyer
Distribute to
Child/ren via
pigeon hole
Is parent
response
required?
Yes
Collect
response
forms
No
Document date
communication
distributed
52
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Process as
necessary
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Chart 1.3
Parent To Teacher – Written Communication
This process addresses written communication from the parent to the teacher which could be in the
form of a letter addressing a specific issue or through the use of the Parent Suggestion Form.
However it is acknowledged that verbal communication between these parties will occur on a day to
day basis in a more informal setting.
Parent Provides
written
communication
Action
required?
No
Yes
Identify
necessary
Action
Meeting
Required
Written
Response
Required
See
Chart
1.1
See
Chart
1.2
53
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
File
communication
in child’s
record
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
DENTAL CARE POLICY
Rational
The Australian Dental Association states that ORAL HEALTH is the absence of
active disease in the mouth. It affects overall well being and enables people to
participate in their chosen roles without discomfort or embarrassment.
Oral health is a basic expectation of all Australians. Oral health and disease are
important in their own right and for their association with general health.
Establishing good oral health practices during a child’s formative years will provide
the framework for ongoing oral health.
Aim
To establish practices that help maintain good dental health in children.
Resources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
Australian Dental Association – www.ada.org.au
Procedure
The centre supplements children’s drinks with milk or water.
Children are encouraged to drink water after meals to help clean their mouths.
Teachers regularly talk to children about tooth brushing, dental care and hygiene at
group time.
Books and posters about these topics are displayed for children.
Information brochures about dental care and hygiene are available for parents from
the Parent Resource Library.
Dental Health and Hygiene awareness is conducted with in the programme with the
assistance of specialist educators who visit the service yearly.
54
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Action Plan for dental emergencies
•
•
Most children under the age of 5 will have baby teeth only
All injuries to the mouth should be checked by a dental professional as soon
as possible
Bitten tongue or lip
•
Apply a cold compress/pressure to reduce bleeding and swelling using a
clean cloth. If bleeding continues, seek dental or medical advice
If a tooth is knocked out
Baby teeth
•
•
Baby teeth should not be put back into the mouth
Place the tooth in milk and transport it and the child to a dental professional
as soon as possible
Permanent teeth
•
•
•
•
•
•
Immediately replace the tooth in the socket and apply finger pressure. If
necessary, continue to hold the tooth in position
Seek immediate dental treatment
Try not to touch the root of the tooth - pick the tooth up by the crown
If the tooth is dirty, rinse it in milk. If not immediately available rinse in saline
solution – do not rinse with water
Replace the tooth and seek immediate dental advice
If the tooth can’t be found, transport the patient to a dental professional while
others continue to search. If found, put the tooth in milk if possible and
transport it to the dental clinic
If teeth are broken
•
•
Place any broken pieces of tooth in milk and seek dental advice as soon as
possible
If no milk is available, wrap the tooth in plastic wrap for transportation
Do not:
•
•
•
•
Rinse the tooth in water
Scrape or rub the root surface
Allow the tooth to dry
Delay seeking dental treatment / advice
55
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
DIVERSITY POLICY
Rational
Social Plan 2006-2008 Liverpool City Council
Liverpool’s diversity presents many opportunities and challenges for people choosing
to call this city their home. Residents come from 156 different birthplaces, with over
40% of people born in a non-English speaking country. Almost half the population is
multilingual and there are around 125 languages other than English spoken in
Liverpool. Almost 20% of people with disabilities in Liverpool speak a language other
than English at home, and more than 50% of older people in Liverpool were born
overseas, the majority in a non-English speaking country.
Liverpool is predominantly a city of families with children, and with the housing
developments proposed in the South West Growth Centre, it will remain an area
attractive to families. In 2001, there were over 94,800 people living together in a
family unit. In terms of age groups, children aged 0-11 years constituted over 20% of
the Liverpool population, young people 12-24 years comprised 18.8% of the
population, and older people 55 years and over comprised 14.6% of the population.
Those who are aged 25-54 accounted for 45.3% of the population. There is a
significant older population in Liverpool, with an estimated 8% of the population in
2006 aged 65 years and older, which is predicted to increase steadily to about 14%
of the population by 2031. People with a disability comprised 16.8% of the Liverpool
population in 2001. Liverpool had a higher than state average proportion of people
aged 44 years and under with a disability. Figure 3 shows the age groups as a
relative proportion of the Liverpool population in 2001.
Aim
We strive to create a programme that truly reflects the lives of our children, families,
staff and community. By recognising the impact culture plays on families, we will
make every effort to provide culturally responsive care by affirming human
56
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
differences and the right of people to make choices about their own lifestyle. We
seek to recognise, appreciate, and respect the uniqueness of each child.
Our Early Childhood Education Program is committed to multicultural education.
This means we share a commitment to human rights, dignity of the individual and
social justice.
Resources
•
•
•
•
•
•
NSW Curriculum Framework for Children’s Services 2002
Children’s Services Regulation 2004
Prejudice. No way! – website: http://www.prejudicenoway.com.au
Racism. No way! – website: http://www.racismnoway.com.au
Making Multicultural Australia – website: http://www.multiculturalaustralia.edu.au
Liverpool City Council – website: http://www.liverpool.nsw.gov.au/home.htm
Procedure
Staff will systematically seek meaningful information that will enhance the lives of
children and their families within the school environment.
Staff will:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Recognise the beauty, value and contribution of each child.
Foster high self-esteem and positive self-concept in children.
Teach children about their own culture.
Introduce children to other cultures.
Provide children with positive experiences exploring similarities and
differences.
Encourage children to respect other cultures.
Increase children's ability to talk to and play with people from other cultures.
Help children to be group members.
Talk about racism and current events regularly with children.
Help children live happily and cooperatively in a diverse world.
Help children notice and do something about unfair behaviour and events.
Encourage parents with cultural skills to share these in the Kindergarten
Program.
Continually evaluate needs of children from differing cultures & ethnic
background to ensure their particular needs are being met.
Communicate with parents regularly as a link between home and
Kindergarten for the child.
The Centre will attempt to provide children and their families with a positive
appreciation of Aboriginal culture, as it exists in Australia today.
This will be conducted through books, music, crafts, singing, posters, dance etc.
Also gaining correct information about Aboriginal society will be a priority.
57
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Such information will be gained from Aboriginal people, the Aboriginal Resource
Centre and from the Technical and Further Education Child Care Unit, which has
developed appropriate curricula concerning Aboriginal culture.
The program in the Centre will reflect an attitude of respect for Aboriginal people.
Parents of Aboriginal children attending the Centre will be invited to give advice to
the staff about appropriate programs.
Parents from diverse cultural backgrounds are encouraged to share their child
rearing practices with the staff.
58
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
ELECTRONIC MEDIA POLICY
DEFINITION
Viewing television - sitting down and watching television.
Electronic Media – all forms of electronic media including television, computer and
the internet, computer games (such as Playstation) and electronic games (such as
Gameboys).
RATIONALE
To ensure that children are provided with developmentally appropriate activities and
experiences.
To monitor and limit use of Electronic Media.
To ensure children are only exposed to appropriate Electronic Media.
SOURCES
Australian Children’s Television Foundation
The Office of Film and Literature Classification
Kids - Go for your life
POLICY
All Electronic Media viewed by children is monitored.
Electronic Media use is limited.
PROCEDURES
1.
The Careprovider is to monitor which television programs children view and
ensure they are rated “G” for General Guidance viewing.
2.
The Careprovider must watch television programs with children and interact
with them regarding the content of the program.
3.
Children under 3 years of age can watch up to 30 minutes of television over the
day.
4.
Children aged 3-6 years of age can watch up to 1 hour of television spread
over the day with no more than 20-30 minutes at a time.
5.
The Careprovider is to monitor which computer games children are playing and
ensure they are either a General Rating - “G.
6.
The Careprovider is to monitor use of the Internet and ensure all sites entered
are appropriate for children and that they support children’s learning.
7.
If a parent provides a video to watch, the Careprovider must ensure it is
appropriate. All videos must be rated “G”.
8.
Children’s music videos are acceptable viewing and should be used as an
interactive movement session between the Careprovider and the children.
9.
The television will be turned off when not in use.
59
Created January 2008
Reviewed August 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
10.
The Careprovider’s family members are expected to watch programs or play
computer games that would be inappropriate for young children to experience
at times when Family Day Care children are not in care, or in an area that is
inaccessible to Family Day Care children.
11.
Children should not be encouraged to watch cartoons that present
inappropriate behaviours and do not portray positive life experiences. The
Director can assist with determining the suitability of a particular program or
video.
12.
The Careprovider must ensure that alternative experiences are provided during
times when Electronic Media is in use.
60
Created January 2008
Reviewed August 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
EXCLUSION FOR ILLNESS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE POLICY
Rational
The spread of infection is a major problem in child care. In order to minimise this,
children suffering from certain infections must be excluded from attending.
Children too sick to participate in the centre’s programme will be excluded at the
discretion of the director. The centre does not employ enough staff to care for sick
children. The NSW Health Department’s guidelines for exclusion of children from
children’s services when suffering from specified infectious diseases are listed below.
The same guidelines will be used when considering exclusion of staff members with
infectious diseases from the centre.
Aim
To provide a safe and healthy environment for staff and children whilst encouraging
the provision of appropriate medical treatment for any who are sick.
Resources
NSW Health Department
Staying Healthy in Childcare 4th Edition
Policy
INFECTIOUS CONDITIONS IN THE CENTRE
If a child has a suspected infectious condition for which she/he would be excluded
from the centre (see Guidelines for Exclusion Table), the centre must:
a) Isolate the infectious child from other children where possible. Make sure the
child is comfortable and is supervised by a staff member.
b) Contact the child’s parents, or if they are unavailable, the contact person for
emergencies as listed on the enrolment form. Inform the parents or contact
person of the child’s condition, or suspected condition, and ask that the child be
picked up from the centre as soon as possible.
c) Ensure all bedding, towels, clothing, etc. which has been used by the child that
day are cleaned and disinfected appropriately.
d) Ensure all contact toys are separated, washed and disinfected.
e) Ensure all eating utensils are thoroughly cleaned.
Informing Parents of Infectious Conditions
All parents are to be informed immediately of any infectious condition in the centre by
clearly visible notices, which should include symptoms of the condition and exclusion
time from the centre for any infected person.
Parents Informing the Centre of Infectious Conditions
It is the responsibility of parents to inform the centre immediately when an infectious
condition requiring exclusion (see Exclusion Guidelines) has been discovered in their
family. This is important to minimise the risk of spread of illness.
HIV, AIDS
Children infected with the HIV virus who are healthy will not be excluded from the
centre.
61
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Children who are unwell should be assessed by their doctor before any decision is
made about attendance at the centre.
Controlling the spread of infection
Children who have significant behavioural disturbances may need to be excluded
from child care depending on advice from the child’s doctor in consultation with public
health staff, the child’s parents or guardians, and staff.
Children who have developed impaired immunity should stay away during outbreaks
of contagious diseases such as measles or chicken pox as they may be more serious
in such children.
Care must be taken when exposure to blood or body fluids from any child occurs
and proper hygiene procedures to eliminate the risk of transmission of HIV must be
followed.
Staff
Staff members infected with HIV do not have to disclose this information, however,
they do have a duty to act in a responsible manner towards others.
HEPATITIS B
Responsibilities of the centre and parents
a) Report the infection or carrier status to the director.
Inform the NSW Health Department.
Controlling the spread of infection
See Hygiene guidelines.
A bite or similar infectious event, from a hepatitis B carrier that breaks the skin or a
contact with blood from a child who is a carrier must be immediately reported to the
NSW Department of Health.
Immediate preventive treatment may be given to the child or adult in contact with the
carrier.
GUIDELINES FOR EXCLUSION
Condition
Chickenpox
Exclusion of cases
Exclude for at least 5 days
after the spots first appear
and until all blisters have
formed into scabs
Cold sores
(herpes simplex)
Not excluded. Carers with
cold sores should not look
after babies younger than
two months.
Not excluded
Exclude until discharge from
eyes has ceased.
Not excluded
Common cold
Conjunctivitis
Cytomegalovirus
(CMV)
62
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Exclusion of contacts
Any child with an immune
deficiency should be excluded for
their own protection. Otherwise
not excluded (Pregnant women
should seek medical advice).
Not excluded
Not excluded
Not excluded
Not excluded. (Pregnant women
should seek medical advice).
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Condition
Diarrhoea
(rotavirus
campylobacter,
cryptosporidium,
shigella,
salmonella etc;
see also Giardia).
Diphtheria
Erythema
infectiosum (fifth
disease)
Giardia
Glandular fever
Haemophilus
influenzae type b
(HIB)
Hand, foot and
mouth disease
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis C
Human
Immunodeficiency
virus (HIV)
Impetigo (school
sores)
Influenza
Leprosy
Measles
Exclusion of cases
Exclude until diarrhoea has
ceased for 24 hours
(campylobacter and shigella
may require antibiotic
treatment; advice may be
obtained from the local
public health unit)
Exclude until two negative
throat swabs, the last at
least 72 hours after stopping
antibiotics
Not excluded
Exclusion of contacts
Not excluded
Excluded until treatment
given and diarrhoea has
ceased for 24 hours
Not excluded
Exclude until well
Not excluded (Stool testing
suggested if contact has
diarrhoea).
Not excluded
Not excluded (contact local
Public Health Unit regarding
need for preventative antibiotics
for family and child-care
contacts).
Not excluded
Not excluded
Exclude for 7 days after
onset of jaundice
Not excluded
Not excluded
Not excluded unless another
infection occurs requiring
exclusion
Exclude unless sores are
covered with a waterproof
dressing and antibiotic has
been started
During influenza outbreaks,
exclude for 5 days after start
of symptoms
Exclude until allowed to
return by public health
authority
Exclude for 4 days after the
rash first appears
63
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Exclude family/household
contacts until cleared by public
health authority.
Not excluded (Pregnant women
should seek medical advice).
Not excluded
Not excluded
Not excluded
Not excluded
Not excluded
Not excluded
Not excluded
Immunised contacts not
excluded. Unimmunised contacts
are to be immunised within 72
hours of contact with a case, or
they will be excluded for the
duration of the outbreak as
determined by the public health
unit.
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Condition
Meningitis,
bacterial
Exclusion of cases
Exclude until well
Meningococcal
Exclude until well
Mumps
Exclude for 9 days after
symptoms first appear
Exclude for at least 14 days
after symptoms first appear
Exclude until the day after
treatment is started
Poliomyelitis
Ringworm (tinea),
scabies,
pediculosis (head
lice), trachoma
Roseola
Rubella (German
measles)
Streptococcal
infection and
scarlet fever
Tuberculosis
Typhoid and
paratyphoid fever
Vomiting
(Norovirus,
Rotavirus,
Adenoviruses,
Campylobacter,
Salmonella,
Shigella, Giardia
and
Cryptosporidium.)
Whooping cough
(pertussis)
Not excluded
Exclude for 4 days after the
rash appears
Exclude until 24 hours of
antibiotics have been given
Exclusion of contacts
Not excluded (contact local public
health unit regarding need for
preventative antibiotics for family
and child-care contacts)
Not excluded (contact local public
infection health unit regarding
need preventative antibiotics for
family and child-care contacts)
Not excluded
Not excluded
Not excluded (It may be
advisable for all household
contacts to be treated at the
same time as the case).
Not excluded
Not excluded (Pregnant women
should seek medical advice)
Not excluded
Exclude until allowed to
return by public health
authority
Exclude until allowed to
return by public health
authority
Exclude until vomiting has
ceased for 24 hours
Not excluded (Household and
child care contacts may need
screening)
Not excluded
Exclude for 5 days of a 14
day course of erythromycin
Exclude unimmunised household
contacts for first 5 days of a 14
day course of erythromycin.
Unimmunised children in the
centre will be excluded for the
duration of the outbreak as
determined by the public health
unit.
64
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Not excluded
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
EMERGENCY POLICY
Aim
To gain access to emergency medical treatment for children when needed as
deemed appropriate by centre staff.
To ensure parents are informed in a timely manner of all emergency situations that
may arise in the centre.
Resources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004 (CL80)
Policy
It is a condition of enrolment (as specified in the regulations) that written
authorisation is given for urgent medical, dental or hospital treatment &/or ambulance
service.
Emergency Contact List
Updates: The ‘emergency contact list’ listing contact details for all children enrolled at
the centre are updated every month, or whenever a new child is enrolled at the
centre.
Location: A copy of the current emergency contact list is placed in:
•
•
•
•
The sign-in book
The portable first aid bag
In the outdoor shed
At the Licensee’s home office
The emergency evacuation plan is to be followed by all staff members, these are
located at all exits.
If a serious/fatal injury occurs at the centre, staff must:
1. Implement emergency medical procedure, which includes one staff member
calling an ambulance, while another initiates first aid procedures.
2. Inform the parents
3. Notify Police.
4. The Director-General will also be notified immediately, (DOCS).
5. The Licensee of the service will be immediately notified.
6. A written record will then be completed and signed by staff members present.
This record should include:
• What happened to child/ staff member?
• Action taken by staff
• Time of incident
65
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Staff cannot pronounce a child dead. In the event of having to contact the family, the
director will inform the family that the situation is urgent and ask them to come to the
centre / hospital immediately.
66
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
EMERGENCY PROCEDURE
a) Remain calm. Reassure the child and others at the scene.
b) Stay at the scene and give help and first aid as needed.
c) If not in possession of a first aid certificate, send word to a staff member who has
a first aid certificate. This person will take charge of the emergency, assess the
situation, and give any further first aid, as needed.
d) Notify parent(s) of the emergency and agree on a course of action with the
parent(s).
e) If parent cannot be reached, notify parent’s emergency contact person or call the
doctor shown on the child’s enrolment form.
f)
A staff member should remain with the child until the parent takes charge.
Transportation of Children
In the case of an accident or serious illness, staff must call an ambulance to transport
the child to the hospital for treatment.
The child is to be accompanied by a staff member in the ambulance if the parents or
the emergency contact people are unavailable. If the parents or the emergency
contact people are unable to be contacted for the return trip to the centre, staff are to
use a taxi to return to the centre.
67
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
EMERGENCY FIRE EVACUATION PROCEDURE
1. Person who spots the fire (person 1) blows whistle tells others about location of
the fire rings 000.
2. Other staff assemble children at exit furthest to the fire, take sign-in book,
emergency contact list, portable first aid kit and evacuate children (reassemble
children at designated marshalling area)
3. Director checks all areas to ensure no children are left behind, closes all doors
and windows and joins others.
Please note:
The address to be given to the firebrigade when ringing 000 is
6 Metcalfe Ave
Moorebank 2170
Nearest cross street is Selway Ave, Moorebank and Craig Street, Moorebank.
68
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
EMERGENCY EVACUATION PROCEDURES
When the whistle sounds
a) If you are responsible for raising the alarm, remain where you are until the person
in charge gets there.
d) Remain where you are and gather the children in your immediate area together
while waiting to be told by the Director, or staff, which plan of action to follow.
e) Take responsibility for your area as well as the areas adjacent to you.
f) The Director will be responsible for checking all the rooms, including
playroom,store room, bathroom, laundry, adult toilet, staff room, kitchen and
outdoors
i) The Director is responsible for collecting the sign in/out sheets for the group and
taking to designated area.
j) Staff member number 1is responsible for collecting and taking the emergency
backpack to the designated area.
What to do
a) Use the exit doors closest to the designated assembly area.
b) Move towards the exit in the most direct way.
c) If parents, visitors, students, etc. are present, be directive and give clear
instructions (e.g. Please go to the gate and help supervise the children).
d) Switch of all electrical appliances if passing - and then only if there is time.
e) Close all windows (if there is time) and close all doors behind you if you are the
last one passing through.
f) If there is a lot of smoke get down on the floor and crawl out.
g) Assemble in the designated area, call the roll, take a head count and report any
missing children to the Director or staff.
h) Await further instructions and help supervise and calm the children. When
notified to move, help supervise the return to the centre or to the next safe
assembly area.
i) Once outside, never re-enter the building until the Director has been given the all
clear by approaite/emergency authorities.
Director or Staff
a)
b)
c)
d)
Ring the Fire Brigade and Police on 000.
Direct staff and children to the most appropriate designated area;
Check all rooms before leaving the centre;
Take kindergarten and staff roll books to the vacating area and account for all the
children and staff.
e) If it is necessary to move completely away from the building arrange to notify
parents (e.g. one person remains at the centre, leave notices on the fence,
telephone parents).
Exits
a) The Main Exit - assemble outside the front gate.
69
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Emergency Backpack Contents
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
g)
h)
i)
j)
First aid kit.
Key to the centre.
Nappies.
List of names, addresses and telephone numbers of all parents and emergency
contacts.
Money and telephone card.
Taxi telephone numbers.
Box of tissues.
Disposable towels.
Latex gloves.
Paper and pen.
70
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
EXCURSION POLICY
Rational
Excursions into the wider community provide children with exposure to a variety of
cultures and situations. All excursions away from the centre need to be managed
appropriately to ensure the safety of all children and staff.
Aim
To maximize the use of the local community by providing age appropriate
experiences that complement the preschool programme in a safe manner.
During the enrolment interview, parents will be requested to sign a standard inclusion
on the enrolment form giving permission to the staff to take their child on informal
excursions. Informal excursions are defined as outings within walking distance of
the centre to nearby recreational venues which are used regularly. (Library)
Resource
Children’s Services Regulation 2004.
The Creative Curriculum for Preschool by Diane Trister Dodge, Laura J. Colker,
Cate Heroman, and Toni S. Bickart 2002
http://www.det.wa.edu.au/education retrieved 22nd Jan 2008
Policy
Informal excursions are subject to the adult: child ratio of 1:4 as stipulated in
the
Regulations of Centre Based Care (this includes bus travel).
An excursion is defined as any activity in which children aged 0-6 years are taken
out of the approved venue of the children’s centre.
When excursions are arranged, the following requirements will be observed at all
times.
No child shall be taken on an excursion unless:
• the centre has a timetable for the excursion and an itinerary
• at least 24 hours notice of the excursion has been given to parents/guardians,
with an itinerary for the excursion. It is preferable for longer notice to be given
where possible
71
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
signed permission for the specific excursion and any specific activity which is to
take place during the excursion has been received from the parent or guardian
a list of children attending the excursion is left at the centre prior to departure and
a copy carried by the authorised supervisor for the purpose of checking at regular
intervals during the course of the excursion
there is no significant departure from the planned itinerary. A planned itinerary
includes
contingency arrangements for weather, etc
the supervisor has ensured that all children are equipped with clothing
appropriate for the excursion, eg. jumpers, sun hats, appropriate footwear,
sunscreen
staff are able to ensure children have the use of shaded areas.
any excursion planned is consistent with the requirements/exclusions of the
Public Liability Insurance Cover held by the centre
a full stocked first aid kit is taken,
when transporting children on an excursion, the authorised supervisor shall
ensure:
- that RTA approved restraints appropriate to the ages of children shall be
used in motor vehicles where there is seating for 9 or less persons
- that each child is to have access to a restraint as indicated above
- that the appropriate adult:child ratios for the excursion apply
- that the seating capacity as displayed on the compliance plate of the
vehicle is not exceeded
See Excursion Permission Form.
The adult:child ratio on formal excursions shall be at minimum
•
•
•
one adult : two children for children under the age of two one adult : four children
aged 2-5 years (under school age)
It is accepted that services will increase the child:adult ratio according to the type
of excursion and age of children
Parent volunteers will be used whenever possible to maintain or exceed the
adult:child ratio. On excursions, all supervisors need not be employed staff.
Parents and volunteers may be used, though the authorised supervisor for the
purpose of the excursion must be an adult permanent staff member.
At least, one staff member attending the excursion is to hold a current First Aid
Certificate.
The nature of the supervision whilst on an excursion will be appropriate to the ages
of the children in attendance and to the nature of the activity of the excursion. Safe
practice is to be rigorously enforced when near or crossing roads. Notwithstanding
this, all supervisors attending the excursion will maintain close proximity to the
activity for the purposes of supervision at all times.
For any excursion which will involve proximity to water the authorised supervisor
shall ensure that the level of supervision is a 1 adult child : 1 child under 3 and 1
72
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
adult : 2 children 3 years or more. Such activities might include ferry trips, feeding the
ducks in a park and picnics near water which do not include swimming.
Should an excursion involve any of these types of bodies of water, the authorised
supervisor shall ensure that 2 adult persons accompanying the children have a:
•
•
•
•
Senior resuscitation certificate in compliance with the OH&S Act 2000, completed
within
12 months immediately prior to the excursion and
a Bronze Medallion Award or equivalent as awarded by the Royal Life Saving
Society and
water safety knowledge
Swimming is not permitted. Additional care and attention must also be given where
excursions involve proximity to heavy traffic and crowded venues.
Prior to any excursion, it is the Director’s responsibility to ensure:
• That children’s emergency contact details are updated.
• That a mobile phone or change for a phone is organised to take on the excursion.
• That the first aid kit for excursions is reviewed and updated as required.
• That medication and a management plan for any children attending the excursion
are available and updated.
• Staff must carry at all times while on excursion an emergency contact list a first
aid kit and a mobile phone/change for telephoning.
• A designated staff member must be assigned to directly supervise any child with
a chronic illness/allergic condition. This staff member is to hold the child’s
medication and management plan throughout the excursion.
Staff on excursion are to telephone 000 immediately in the case of an emergency,
illness or accident.
Staff Transport of children
Staff Members will only transport children in cars in individual restraints appropriate
to the age of the child.
73
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Excursion Permission Form
For every child going on an excursion, a permission form must be signed and
completed by a parent or person responsible for the child before the child
participates in the excursion. The permission note includes:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The date and time of the excursion and proposed length of time of the
excursion.
The proposed destination
Means of transport
Activities to be carried out during the excursion
The ratio of adults to children – 1 adult for every 2 children aged 2 to 3 years
of age and 1 adult for every 4 children aged 3 to 5 years.
A phone number where families can contact staff during the excursion
Any other relevant information, like the learning purpose of the excursion,
cost, or what children will need to bring with them on the day.
A request for an emergency contact phone number that can be used by staff
to contact parents or person responsible for the child during the excursion.
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Centre’s Excursion Permission Form is located on the
following page:
74
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Childcare Centre
EXCURSION PERMISSION FORM
We are planning an excursion. Please read all details below so that you know where
we are going and what we will be doing. Please sign below and return to centre with
any money required
by: __________________(day)_____/_____/_____(date)
Excursion destination: ________________________________________________________
Purpose of excursion/activities to be carried out:
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Date: ________________(day)_____/_____/_____(date)
Cost: ___________________
Mode of transportation: ________________________________________________________
If walking, the route we will take will be:
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Time of Departure: __________________Expected time of return: ____________________
Staff attending excursion:
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Number of volunteers attending excursion:________________________________
Staff attending excursion with Current First Aid certificate:
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
What to bring:
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Emergency contact number for excursion (if possible): __________________________
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------I am able volunteer to attend the excursion: yes no
I give permission for my child/ren _____________________________________________
to be involved in the excursion organised by centre staff planned for _______________
(date) to ______________________________________(destination)
Parent Name: __________________________ Signature:___________________________
Date: __________________(day)_____/_____/_____(date)
75
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
EDUCATION POLICY
Rational
“Early Learning is particularly significant as it lays the foundation for all learning”
(Curriculum Framework) therefore our aim is to help children become enthusiastic
learners for life, developing optimally according to their potential, with positive
attitudes about themselves and about school.
Aim
To provide developmentally and individually appropriate care and education to
children enrolled at the centre.
Resources
Children’s Services Regulation 2004
Curriculum Framework for Children’s Services: The Practice of Relationships 2002
Policy
How children learn
Children learn best by doing, actively thinking, exploring and experimenting in a
stimulating and safe environment. In their early years children explore the world
around them using all their senses – touching, tasting, listening, smelling and looking.
They need experiences that give them opportunities to use and develop all their
senses, and advance in all areas of development in a balanced way.
In addition to helping children advance in all areas of development, and prepare them
for school learning, we aim to help each child become independent, confident, self
controlled and inquisitive learners, with positive attitudes about themselves and about
learning that continue through life.
In addition, learning through interest is a high level motivator (Curriculum Framework)
Programming and Curriculum - The curriculum aims to develop children in all
areas of development. This is mainly achieved through freely selected experiences
and interest based choices.
Social - to help children feel comfortable and trust their new environment, make
friends, learn to share, and learn to channel their behaviour based on an
understanding of how it impacts others.
Emotional - to help children understand their emotions and learn to positively deal
with emotions such as anger & frustration, become confident and develop a healthy
self esteem, and become increasingly independent.
76
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Cognitive - to help children learn to explore things and develop their own ideas,
thinking, reasoning and problem solving skills, develop simple concepts and basic
numeracy skills to help them develop strategies for successful learning such as
asking questions, clarifying concepts, and developing attention skills.
Language and Pre-literacy - help children learn to clearly and confidently articulate
their ideas, develop conversational and narration skills, gain exposure to a number of
written and oral uses of language, familiarise with the conventions of print.
Physical - help children develop their large and small muscle skills and feel confident
about what their bodies can do, help children learn about and develop nutritious
eating habits.
Activities are carefully planned on the basis of observations of children’s interests,
abilities and needs, to help children develop according to their own potential towards
the curricular goals described above.
Programme
Indoor and Outdoor programs are planned weekly, and are evaluated daily to
incorporate any required changes. Programs reflect an equal emphasis on all areas
of development, and a balance between indoor and outdoor, and active and quiet
activities.
The curriculum reflects our belief that children learn best through play and by active
involvement in experiences and activities. Staff interact with children to ensure
children engage meaningfully in activities and to extend children’s interests and
learning.
“Multiple perspectives” as outlined in the Curriculum Framework ensures that staff
focus on strengths and capabilities of individual children.
A variety of quality children’s resources are purchased on a regular basis.
Programming time
Programming time (free of supervision duties) of two hours each week is given to
each teacher at the centre, so that all teachers can program effectively and keep in
touch with new developments and trends in the early childhood field by reading
relevant journals and other publications.
Developmental records
All teachers at the centre have focus children on whom they maintain detailed
developmental records. Developmental records include written observations of
children, planned follow-up activities/experiences and developmental checklists.
Parents are free to make an appointment to view these records and discuss their
child’s development at any time. Talks on children’s development are conducted
formally with all parents twice a year. Informal conversations are conducted regularly
during drop off and pick up times.
Children with special needs
If staff feel any child has a special need, this is discussed with the relevant centre
staff. All staff keep written observations on the child, which are discussed again in 23 weeks. These are then discussed with parents. If it is felt that the child has a
special need a referral is made to the relevant community health centre or diagnostic
agency with the parents’ permission.
77
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Staff work closely with families of children with special needs to establish consistent
learning goals between the home and preschool, and to ensure that the preschool
program takes account of parental priorities and concerns about their child.
Staff liaise with other professionals supporting a child with special needs to integrate
their therapy goals & activities in the centre’s program, and assist the child with a
smooth transition to school by participating in the ‘Transition to School’ process with
the NSW Department of School Education.
Reset Time
We believe that all children need a quiet time to have an opportunity to rest. We also
believe that children should not be forced to sleep or be on a bed against their will.
Rest time at the centre is staggered from 12.45 to 2.30 to accommodate individual
needs.
Children who do not generally have a sleep at preschool (as observed at the centre
and as reported by their parents) are offered quiet activities after a short period of
rest.
Children who are asleep are encouraged to wake up after 2.30 pm, with
consideration given to their individual needs for rest, after observation and
consultation with parents.
78
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
ENROLMENT POLICY
Aim
To follow the enrolment guidelines of the NSW Department of Community Services
To ensure that priority of access criteria do not contravene the guidelines by the Anti
Discrimination Board.
To avoid the possibility of bias in enrolment decisions and give priority in providing
care to families with special needs.
To maintain an effective waiting list .
Resources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004.
Procedure to be placed on the Waiting List
We encourage families to come and have a look at our centre before putting their
child’s name on our waiting list, so that they can make an informed choice.
1. For children to be placed on the centre’s waiting list, their parents/custodians
need to:
•
Return a completed waiting list application form
2. There is no minimum age for when children’s names can be placed on our
waiting list.
Priority of Access
We follow the guidelines for priority of access set by the government body from
whom we receive funding. The centre director will decide each enrolment on a case
by case basis. These decisions may be based on the centre’s resources and
limitations and a need for balance within groups. Parents are able to discuss any
enrolment issues with the Director.
The following guidelines are used to determine priority of access on a case by case
basis. No guideline has priority over another.
•
•
•
•
•
Date of application on Waiting list
Families in crisis or with special needs (this includes children with special
learning needs)
Children from families where both parents (or the sole parent in a single
parent family) are working.
Children for Aboriginal / Torres Straight Islander Backgrounds
Siblings of children who have attended the centre in the past.
79
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
ENROLMENT PROCEDURE
When a position becomes available for your child we will contact you by phone or
letter.
If you do not reply to our letter within 7 days the position will be offered to the next
child on the waiting list.
If families accept a place for their child they will need to pay commitment fee of $50
and return all forms. This fee is released to their account after two months service
with us. If the enrollment is cancelled after application is entered the commitment fee
is not refundable.
For further details please refer to ‘Fees Policy’.
Before children can start at our centre parents/carers must:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Fully complete our Enrolment Form
Give permission for seeking emergency medical attention
Provide copies of any relevant court orders if any one parent is restricted in
accessing the child
Sign the conditions of enrolment, and an agreement regarding sunscreen,
photos, headlice checking etc.
*Sign a permission note permitting the centre to administer Paracetamol
during specified emergencies, and to apply specified sunscreen (*this
permission note is optional)
Provide your child’s immunisation records and proof of age
Attend an informal interview with the Director
Upon enrolment families are given our Parent Information Booklet and other relevant
information.
Enrolment Form
All details requested on the enrolment form is outlined in the Children’s Services
Regulation 2004.
Flow charts
This procedure is supported by two flowcharts, Chart 2.1 – Enrollment Process and
Chart 2.2 – Day 1
80
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
ETHICAL CONDUCT POLICY
Rational
Aims
1. To establish guidelines on standards of behaviour and conduct necessary to
maintain integrity and fair dealing.
2. To establish practical means of identifying and resolving situations which
involve conflicts of interest.
3. To give staff volunteers students a basis for making day-to-day discissions
dealing with ethical questions.
Resources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
Australian Early Childhood Association Code of Ethics.
Procedure
•
•
•
•
All staff to familiarise themselves with the support documents (AECA Code of
Ethics) prior to commencement of employment.
All staff are to refer to these documents on an on going basis and as the need
arises.
These documents are readily on hand and used as reference material.
All staff are to conduct themselves in the manner outlined in the support
documents.
81
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
FOOD HANDLING AND STORAGE POLICY
Rational
Incorrect handling and storage of food can lead to contamination and spoilage. Your
Kids Our Kids Child Care Centre has a duty of care to the staff and the children in
their care to ensure that they are provided with safe food during the course of the
day.
Aim
To ensure that food at the centre is prepared, handled and served hygienically; and
stored appropriately to prevent food contamination and maintain freshness.
Resources
Children’s Services Regulation 2004.
Food Standards Code Australia and New Zealand – www.foodstandards.gov.au
NSW Food Safety Act 2003
www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au
Practice
Facilities provided at the centre to ensure appropriate food handling include •
•
•
•
•
•
Pump dispensed soap provided for staff
Disposable hand towels, and blow dryers provided for drying hands
Double bowl sink provided in kitchen
Separate craft sink located outside kitchen
Colour coded cloths used for wiping - See sign in kitchen
Fly screens fitted on all windows
Food Preparation and Handling
Sufficient staff undertake an approved FOOD PREPARATION & HANDELING
course.
•
•
•
•
When preparing or handling food staff wear disposable gloves AND wash
their hands both before and after handling food.
Staff are excluded from handling food if they are ill or have any open wounds
or sores that cannot be effectively covered.
Fruits and vegetables are washed thoroughly before being served to children,
even if the skin is to be removed.
For food preparation, staff must use clean cutting boards that have been
washed and dried appropriately.
Cooking Food
Cooking activities are regularly included in the centre’s education program. The
following guidelines are followed for cooking food:
82
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
•
•
•
•
All foods are thoroughly thawed before cooking. Frozen meat, fish, poultry or
dairy food are thoroughly defrosted in the refrigerator or on the defrost setting
in the microwave and NEVER defrosted at room temperature.
When preparing food for cooking, separate chopping boards are used for raw
and cooked foods to avoid contact between them.
Food is thoroughly heated when cooking so that all parts of cooked foods
reach a temperature of 70-degree Celsius during the cooking process.
If children are involved in cooking they wash their hands under adult
supervision before participation.
Serving Food
•
•
•
•
Food is served in clean, washed utensils and is kept covered until served.
Staff must wear gloves when serving food and must wash hands before and
after serving.
Staff will explain reasons and ask children not to share food or utensils when
at the centre. Children are taught not to eat food that has been directly
handled by other children or has fallen from their plate.
Any food heated in the microwave for children is thoroughly heated, then
stirred and allowed to cool down. Its temperature is checked prior to serving
to ensure it is appropriate.
Washing and Cleaning Procedures for Utensils and Surfaces used for Food
Preparation
The following procedures are used to ensure that utensils and surfaces used for food
preparation are hygienic •
•
•
Utensils used for serving or preparing food are not used for any other
purpose. All used utensils and chopping boards are washed in hot soapy
water, rinsed thoroughly, allowed to drip dry, and put back in the cupboard
only when thoroughly dry.
All kitchen bench tops and tables are wiped with hot soapy water before and
after each use.
All dishcloths are washed and rinsed in hot soapy water after each use. At the
end of the day all dish cloths are soaked in hot water with disinfectant,
washed and allowed to thoroughly dry before use the next day.
The following guidelines are followed for storage of this food:
•
•
•
•
All perishable food (fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat or poultry) is stored in the
refrigerator or freezer in sealed containers or according to the manufacturers
recommended storage instructions.
Raw and cooked food is stored in separate sealed containers in the
refrigerator or freezer.
Any dairy, meat, fish or poultry product that has accidentally defrosted or
become warm due to refrigerator not functioning properly is discarded.
All non-perishable food is stored in airtight containers in the pantry.
All foods are stored in their original packaging to check their expiry date. Any foods
past expiry date are discarded.
83
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
FOODHANDLING
a) Foods to be eaten raw are to be washed thoroughly.
b) Cook meat well. Frozen meat, fish and poultry must be thawed
completely before cooking.
c) Store cooked foods carefully. Cooked foods prepared in advance are
to be kept hot, at 60 degrees C or over, or refrigerated.
d) Reheat cooked foods thoroughly. Food should only be reheated once.
e) Avoid contact between raw and cooked foods. They should be stored
apart, and utensils should be washed between using them on raw and
then ready-to-eat food.
f) Keep all kitchen surfaces meticulously clean.
g) Store foods in tightly sealed containers.
Pets should not be allowed near food preparation areas.
When preparing food the following boards should only be used for:
Red: vegetables, White: diary, Black: meat
84
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
FIRST AID POLICY
Rational
Aim
To enable staff to administer effective first aid swiftly to injured/ill children, staff or any
other persons at the centre to minimise the negative effects of injury/illness.
For First Aid equipment to comply with Work Cover Authority under OH&S Act 2001
and Children’s Services Regulations2004.
Resources
Children’s Services Regulation 2004
St John’s Ambulance Australia (NSW)
OH&S Regulation 2001
Procedures
FIRST AID
Your Kids our Kids Childcare Centre encourages all staff permanently employed to
hold a current approved First Aid Certificate. First Aid certificates need updating
every three (3) years and the centre will fund First Aid training.
Your Kids our Kids Childcare Centre will ensure that there is always someone with a
First Aid certificate on duty.
A copy of an authorised manual of First Aid is to be kept at the centre.
A wall chart must be displayed in a prominent position showing expired air
resuscitation and external cardiac compression procedures.
A notice clearly displaying emergency telephone numbers- 000, Liverpool hospital,
Poisons information, Liverpool police, SES etc is placed near all phones.
FIRST AID KIT
An emergency back pack must be kept fully stocked at all times. Staff will review
the contents of all boxes and backpack every month and after use and, if necessary,
will contact St. John Ambulance to restock.
The first Aid boxes will be stored out of reach of the children.
It is the responsibility of all staff members to familiarise themselves with the contents
of the First Aid boxes.
Use-by-dates on all items should be checked regularly.
85
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
Fire extinguishers will be located in the centre, staff room, main office and the
kitchen.
86
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
FEES POLICY
Rational
Aim
To endeavour to keep child care affordable.
To adhere to guidelines set down by funding bodies.
Policy
Payment of Fees
The fee policy is explained to parents at the time of enrolment and is included in the
Handbook.
•
Fees are to be paid 2 weeks in advance.
•
All cheques for fees are to be submitted with the child’s name clearly marked on
the cheque. Cash is to be placed in an envelope labelled with the child’s name
and the amount enclosed. The envelope and the cheque is to be handed to a
staff member.
•
Fees are due for all the days that the child is enrolled, regardless of attendance.
Fees are also due for Public Holidays not falling within the annual close down
period.
•
Fees for the first week of attendance are due on the day of enrolment.
Thereafter, fees should be paid one (1) week in advance.
•
On enrolment, parents are to pay a holding fee equivalent to two weeks fees.
The holding fee is retained until the child leaves the centre, at which time it is
refundable.
Childcare Benefit
The Commonwealth Government, through the Childcare Benefit scheme provides
assistance to families to help with the cost of child care. All parents are eligible
and need to apply to the Family Assistance Office. Parents receiving Childcare
Benefits may be eligible for further assistance in exceptional circumstances and
should apply to the Director.
The amount of CCB families receive depends on their family income and the Family
Assistance Office (FAO) administers this. It is up to families to keep the FAO
informed of any changes in their income through the year.
The FAO may collect any overpaid CCB from families at the end of the financial year,
and if families have received less CCB than their correct entitlement they can claim it
back from the FAO on their tax return.
87
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Late Payment of Fees
It is essential that all fees are paid on time in order to ensure that Your Kids Our Kids
Children's Centre is able to continue to operate. Procedures for overdue fees are as
follows:
•
When fees are 3 - 4 weeks in arrears the Director will give a written request, or
statement, for payment of fees to the parent(s).
•
In circumstance of genuine hardship, the matter will be referred to the centre
Licensee for a decision to be made and a repayment agreement discussed and
formalised.
Payment of Fees on Days Centre is Closed
Fees are charged for all week days including Public Holidays but not during the
annual close down period.
88
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
GRIEVANCE POLICY
Aim
To provide clear procedural guidelines in the event of a complaint made by
parents/guardians of a child attending this service.
Resources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004 (Clause 88).
Procedure
Any concerns or issues about any aspect of the centre, programme or staff can
always be raised following the below mentioned procedure.
•
Discuss concerns or issues with the Authorised Supervisor. The Authorised
Supervisor may request your complaint be put in writing.
•
If dissatisfied with the outcome of your discussion or the concerns is about
the Authorised Supervisor you can discuss your concerns the Licensee.
•
If still dissatisfied you may discuss your concerns with a Children’s Services
Advisor at the Department of Community Services.
Duty of the Licensee
•
The licensee must give written notice of a complaint regarding conduct of the
service to the Director General of the Department of Community Services
within one week of the complaint being made.
•
Written notice must also be given of any action taken in responce to the
complaint as soon as it is practicable after the action is taken.
Flow diagram
Chart 3.1 – Grievance Procedure
89
Created January 2008
Reviewed June 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Grievance Procedure
Chart 3.1
Grievance Procedure
The following chart displays the process parents/carers should take in raising a
grievance with the Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Centre.
Parent
identifies point
of concern
Parent speaks with
the Authorised
Supervisor
Additional
information
required?
Yes
No
Parent provides
written statement
about area of concern
Authorised Supervisor
takes necessary
action to deal with
area of concern
Authorised
Supervisor
provides Parent
with feedback
If the area of concern is with the Authorised Supervisor, parents/carers can
follow this process with the Licensee.
90
Created January 2008
Reviewed June 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
HANDWASHING PROCEDURE
How to Wash Hands:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Use liquid soap and warm running water.
Vigorously rub hands together while washing them (counting to 10).
Ensure you wash your hands all over - back of hands wrists between fingers
and under fingernails.
Rinse your hands under running water (counting to 10).
Pat dry hands with disposable paper towel or a single use cloth towel.
Turn off the tap with paper towel or paper.
When taps and sinks are not available, use alcohol-based wipes or lotions.
However, this is not as good as hand washing - if hands are contaminated
with faeces, hand washing with soap is essential.
Train the children under your care to wash their hands in this way. You will
need to supervise and observe them so that they develop hand washing as a
good habit.
When to Wash Hands
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
When you start work.
Before handling food.
Before eating.
After changing a nappy.
After going to the toilet.
After cleaning up faeces/vomit.
After wiping nose, either a child’s or your own.
Before finishing work.
Source: Staying Healthy in Child Care 4th Edition (p.4 & 5)
.
91
Created January 2008
Reviewed July 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
HIV / AIDS & HEPATITIS B & C (Impairment) POLICY
Rational
All children have the right to be loved and cared for in a safe environment. Children
need to be loved and cared for; equal opportunity. Parents need entitlement – their
child has the right to care; confidentiality. Staff need a safe, hygienic workplace
which provides them with confidentiality and support. Management need to ensure
equality in selection process ensuring that the centre’s anti-discrimination policy is
adhered to.
Policy
The Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Centre aims to provide a safe and healthy
environment for our children to grow and learn about the world around them. In
providing this, the Centre recognises that HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis B & C, like any
other disease is best dealt with by the application of preventative measures. Our
policy ensures clear guidelines which will be adhered to on how to eliminate the risk
of HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis B & C being spread and the care of ALL children and staff
in the Centre, and dictates procedures to follow on how best to implement these
guidelines.
How policy will be implemented (Specific Policies & Procedures):
The Law and HIV
1. Staff and management practices will adhere to the law under the Federal
Disability Discrimination Act 1992 and the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 that
no discrimination will take place based on a child / parents / staff members
HIV status. As HIV is not transmitted through casual contact, a child with
AIDS shall be treated as any other child would be; comforted by cuddling,
hugs, holding hands.
2. Staff and management shall understand that discrimination based on
HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis B or C in regards to access to a Centre is also
unlawful. A child with HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis B or C shall have the right to
obtain a position in a Child Care Centre should a vacancy be available and a
staff member the right to equal opportunity employment.
Confidentiality
If a staff member is notified that a child or the child’s parent/guardian or another staff
member is infected with HIV/AIDS or Hepatitis B or C, the information will remain
confidential. Only with the consent of the person with the virus or from the
parent/guardian can this information be shared with other staff members. Deliberate
breaches of confidentiality will be disciplinary offence proceeding normal consultative
action (refer to Confidentiality Policy and Grievance Policy).
Hygiene
Regulation of the Child Care Centre Regulations 1985 requires that the building,
grounds and all equipment and furnishings are maintained in a thoroughly safe, clean
and hygienic condition. The application of universal hygienic procedures will be
adhered to at all times (refer to Hygienic Procedures).
Gloves
All staff dealing with open sores, cuts and body fluids, shall wear disposable gloves.
If a staff member has an open wound or a skin disease such as dermatitis, eczema,
92
Created January 2008
Reviewed July 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
they shall cover the wound and wear disposable gloves. If blood/body fluids come
into contact with cuts, refer to Procedure 5a (First Aid).
Biting
A child who is biting at the Centre may require a behavior modification process and
this should be undertaken. If a biting incident has occurred, refer to Procedure 3a
(First Aid).
Education and Prevention
In recognition that the fears and prejudices in relation to HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis B &
C need to be addressed, current information and presentation will assist in
eradicating negative reactions. The Centre will liaise with State and Federal Health
Authorities to provide the logical and rational information required for public
education.
Supervision
Standards supervisory ratios of child: adult will apply and level of supervision must be
maintained in accordance with regulations 30 of the Child Care Centre regulations
1985.
Common Infectious Diseases
Parents/Guardians shall be informed by means of notices about common infectious
diseases in the Centre, e.g. Chicken Pox. Parents/Guardians of children with an
impairment of immunity will be advised about outbreaks of contagious diseases in
order that they make informed decisions about whether their child attends the Centre
or not and always acting in the best interest of the child.
Children who are unwell, including these infected with HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis B or
C, shall be assessed by their doctor and a medical certificate provided before a
decision is made about when they return to the Centre.
Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
In the event of having to perform CPR, disposable sterile mouth masks are to be
used. If time does not facilitate, a piece of cloth can be used whilst help is being
arranged.
Under no circumstance will a child/parent /staff member be denied the right to first
aid.
Open Wounds
If a child has an open wound/lesion, it will be covered by parent/staff with a secure
water proof dressing. If this is not possible, a child should remain away from the
Centre until lesions have healed or can be covered.
Procedures
1. Hygiene
Our Centre will adhere to the application of universal hygiene procedures at all times.
a. Always wash your own and children’s hands:
– Before preparing food
– Before eating
– After toileting yourself or a child
– Before and after changing nappies, pottying
– Before (if possible) and after giving first aid
b. Wash blood, faeces, urine off your skin with warm soapy water.
c. Regularly clean floors, equipment and toys with disinfectant solution. This
solution should be made to the manufacturer’s recommendations and
made up daily.
d. Cover any cuts on your skin or child’s skin with a water proof dressing.
e. Wear disposable gloves when dealing with blood.
93
Created January 2008
Reviewed July 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
f. Wipe vinyl covered change mats with a disinfectant solution after each
nappy change.
Disinfectant solution to be made to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
2. Clothing / Bed Linen / Laundering
a. Soiled clothing and bed linen shall be soaked for 30 minutes in a
disinfectant solution, made to the manufacturer’s recommendations, and
then washed using the hot cycle of a washing machine.
b. If any items are soiled with soiled matter, handle them with disposable
gloves and remove all soiled matter before washing (using paper towels or
cold water) as in 2a.
c. Place dirty disposable nappies in a sealed bag.
d. Soiled clothing and bed linen shall be washed separately from other
clothing/linen.
3. First Aid
a. If a staff member/child has a cut or a splash to the eye, nose, mouth or
exposure to blood or other body fluids through chapped, dermatitis affected
skin, promptly wash away the contaminating blood or fluid.
b. Encourage bleeding, and then wash with soap and water or copious
amounts of water.
c. SKIN – If blood gets on the skin but there is no cut or puncture, wash with
soap and water.
d. EYES – If the eyes are contaminated, rinse gently while open with tap
water or saline solution.
e. MOUTH – If blood gets in the mouth, spit it out, then rinse mouth with water
several times.
f. The incident should be reported to ensure appropriate follow-up.
4. The Child
a. When attending an injured child who is bleeding take care to avoid contact
with the blood.
b. Comfort the child and move them to safety.
c. Use gloves if available. If gloves are not available, at the first opportunity
someone to take over with gloves then wash your hands with soapy water.
d. Apply pressure to the bleeding area.
e. Elevate the area unless suspected fracture.
f. When the wound is covered and no longer bleeding, remove gloves. Put
gloves in a plastic bag and place in a rubbish bin. Wash your hands with
soapy water.
5. First Aid
a. Wear gloves if there is time. Dress the child’s wound with a bandage or
suitable substitute and seek medical assistance. Remove gloves, put them
in a plastic bag and place them in a bin.
b. Wash hands thoroughly with warm soapy water.
6. Cleaning of Spilt Blood or Bodily Fluids.
a. Wear Gloves.
b. Remove as much of the matter as possible using paper towels or tissues
then put them immediately in a plastic bag, tie the bag and discard it.
c. Do not use hot water as it may coagulate blood and protect the virus from
the action of the disinfectant / detergent.
94
Created January 2008
Reviewed July 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
d. Mop over hard surfaces with cold water and detergent, then wipe with
disinfectant solution. Leave for 20 minutes.
e. Benches, walls, floor and other inanimate objects likely to be contaminated,
but not visibly soiled should also be disinfected with a solution made to the
manufacturer’s recommendations and left to dry.
f. On soft surfaces, (carpet, rugs) disinfectant may cause damage. Sponge
area thoroughly with cold water and soap, followed by rinsing and airing to
dry.
g. On stainless steel, use methylated spirits and water for disinfecting 7:3.
Leave for 20 minutes.
h. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
i. Dilute disinfectant on day of use.
7. Gloves
a. All staff must wear gloves (disposable, rubber or vinyl) when in contact with
split bodily fluids or open sores, when handling clothes, bed linen or
equipment which has been soiled or body fluids, or when cleaning a
contaminated area.
b. You must wear gloves if you have a break in the skin of your hands, or if
you have dermatitis or eczema.
c. When you have removed the gloves, always wash your hands with soapy
water.
Reference:
Disability Discrimination Act, 1992 (Cth).
Infection Control Guidelines, June 1990.
Staying Healthy in Child Care, Department of Human Services and Health (Cth)
1994.
Care of Person with AIDS at Home.
DOHSW – Code of Practice – Hepatitis B and HIV/AIDS in the Workplace.
95
Created January 2008
Reviewed July 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
INDUCTION OF NEW FAMILIES POLICY
Rational
Aim
•
•
•
•
That all families who use our service have a right to know how our centre
operates and how we will care for their children.
That all families feel welcome and at ease at the Centre. That they feel free to
visit at any time.
That we ensure that parents/guardians are kept updated and informed about
programmes and events at the Centre.
That parents/guardians be invited to contribute to the Centre’s policies.
Procedure
•
•
•
Parents/Guardians are welcome to make an inspection with the Centre regarding
the possible enrolment of a child will be invited
To bring the child for a tour of the Centre.
During the initial visit parents will have the opportunity to look at and discuss;
- Programmes
- Organisation of areas
- Hours of Operation
- Services Offered
- Policies
- Accreditation Committee
- Meet Staff
- Meals and Menus
- Fees and Payments
- Parental Involvement
- Staff development programmes
- Newsletters
•
•
•
•
•
Share various Centre/Parent communication
Share Parent Handbook with parents/guardians-answering queries etc. directing
their attention to items related to helping children settle into the Centre
environment.
Enquire as to whether parents/guardians would like any material translated into a
different language.
Ensure that enrolment form is completed in full.
Arrange for short ‘settling visits’.
96
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
ILLNESS AND INJURY REPORTS POLICY
Any staff member who administers first aid to a sick or injured child must report the
incident to the director and must write it up in the accident register and file on the day
it occurs. A copy will be given to parents if required. The report includes the
circumstances of the injury or symptoms of illness and the details of any treatment
given to the child.
These records must be kept in the centre for five (5) years.
The centre will maintain an Accident Register.
97
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
IMMUNISATION POLICY
Aim
To ensure that all children and staff are appropriately immunised and that any
unimmunised contacts (children or staff) are excluded during outbreak of a vaccine
preventable disease at the centre.
Resources
Public Health (Amendment) Act, 1992.
Children’s Services Regulation 2004
NSW Immunisation Schedule
The Australian Immunisation Handbook 2008 – 9th Edition
Policy
Immunisation records
Upon enrolment parents/custodians are asked to provide the centre with documented
evidence of their child’s immunisation status.
Documented evidence of immunization status can be:
NSW Health Departments Personal Health Record or “Blue Book”
OR
A letter from:
•
•
•
•
A general practitioner (or other medical practitioner)
The local Council
Community health centre
Hospital immunisation clinic
Any children who are homoeopathically immunized or cannot provide documented
evidence of age appropriate immunisation are considered unimmunised.
It is the parent’s responsibility to inform the centre of any subsequent vaccinations
given to their child to keep the centre’s immunisation records updated.
Notification
98
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
The centre is legally required to notify the Department of Health if there is a
significant outbreak of a communicable disease. We must also notify if there is a
case of Measles, Pertussis (Whooping Cough), Mumps, Rubella (German Measles),
Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio. This is advised by the Public Health Unit.
The procedure for notification will be as follows:
1. A notice will be placed at the front door and exit door, informing parents about
the outbreak and precautionary methods parents can take to minimize risk.
2. A note relating to signs and symptoms is placed in information pockets for
individual families.
AND
3. The public health unit is notified if the criteria for notification is met
Exclusion of unimmunised children
Immunisation is not compulsory. However, in the event of an outbreak of a vaccinepreventable disease, unimmunised children will be required to remain at home for the
duration of the outbreak for their own protection.
Vaccine Preventable Diseases include Diphtheria, Pertussis (whooping cough),
Tetanus, Polio, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Chicken Pox.
Parents are strongly encouraged to have their children immunised in accordance with
the NSW recommended schedule.
Staff immunisations
Staff are encouraged to speak with their doctor about routine immunisations (tetanus,
diphtheria, polio, measles, mumps, rubella) and are also encouraged to discuss with
them the hepatitis B and Hepatitis A vaccinations.
Staff contemplating pregnancy should check their immunity against Rubella and Cyto
Megalo Virus with their doctor and complete the recommended vaccination if lacking
immunity. This vaccination should take place at least six months before conception.
Responsibilities of the Director
Under the Public Health (Amendment Act) it is the director’s responsibility to;
a) Request parents to provide documented evidence of the child’s immunisation
status.
b) Maintain and regularly update the Immunisation Register of the immunisation
status of each child.
c) The NSW Health Department’s Personal Health Record is the preferred form
of documentation for the parent to use and show.
d) Notify the Sydney West Public Health Unit (Telephone 9828 5944) as soon as
she/he is aware that a child has contracted a notifiable disease.
e) Comply with a directive from the Medical Officer of Health to exclude
unimmunised contacts from the centre for the duration of the outbreak.
f) Send a note home with the child who is to be excluded and ensure that the
child is excluded for the specified period.
99
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
INCLUSION POLICY AND DISABILITY ACCESS
Rationale
Your Kids Our Kids is committed to the delivery of high quality programs and service
for all young children in the area with an inclusive curriculum, which accepts and
respects all individual differences while challenging stereotypes within the
community. Inclusion of children with special needs recognises Government
legislation, which supports the equal rights of people with disabilities, regardless of
the nature, origin or degree of disability.
Resources
NSW Curriculum Framework For Children’s Services 2002. DoCS.
‘Reaching potentials through Anti-Bias and Multiculturalism’ Derman-Sparks, L.
1992
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
Aim
•
To enhance self esteem and promote social co-operation for all children
•
To provide an inclusive educational environment in which all children can
succeed.
•
To enable children with disabilities to develop autonomy, independence,
competency, confidence and pride.
•
To enable all children to develop the ability to interact knowledgeable,
comfortably and fairly with people have in various disabilities.
•
“It is important for all children to see themselves as powerful and valued,
including children with special needs.” (Curriculum Framework)
•
To teach children how to handle and challenge name calling, stereotypic
attitudes and physical barriers directed against people with disabilities,
regardless of the nature, origin or degree of disability.
(Derman-Sparks, 1992)
Policy
Children with special needs have a right to be involved in a regular children’s service,
which are accommodation and flexible enough to allow for their full participation.
All children, staff, parent and the broad community benefit from the inclusion of
others with different abilities. Staff, need to actively encourage positive attitudes
amongst children, families and others towards those with a disability.
Children thrive on close relationships with carers, who are attuned to their needs and
interests and provide an environment, which stimulates existing skills and strengths.
100
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Children with special needs develop social competence through interaction with
typically developing peers and guidance by sensitive staff.
Functional, naturalistic play-based assessment and programming promotes learning
and development through age-and-developmentally appropriate experiences based
on the individual child’s needs strengths and interests, in the least restrictive
environment.
FAMILIES:
Families are consulted and involved in any decision making the provision of
education and care for their child.
Establishing a mutually supportive relationship between family and centre, where
staff, are understanding of the daily pressures faced by family members caring for a
child with special needs is essential.
Open communication is essential, recognises and accepting diversity in family
beliefs, attitudes and values.
“Family is the most powerful influence on children’s learning and development”
(Curriculum Framework)
STAFF
Staff teamwork is vital in an inclusive program. A staff team, which recognises the
abilities of each member and lends support to one another, assists in meeting
challenges.
Further support from resource team members and additional staff training, is required
to enhance the program provided to children with special needs.
Evaluation of plans and children’s progress and the recognition of the various
challenges and rewards inherent in continually working at being inclusive is
necessary.
Liaison with various professionals is required and communication needs to be both
effective and respectful.
Adequate preparation is essential so that all staff feel confident and competent as
well as possessing positive attitudes toward inclusion and children with special
needs.
101
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
INDUCTION POLICY - STAFF
Aim
To facilitate the smooth transition of new staff while minimising anxiety in children
due to abrupt changes in staff.
Resources
Children’s Services Regulation 2004.
Procedures
•
All staff are initially on a probationary period of three months.
•
Time is available to read policies, procedures and practices (2 hours where
appropriate).
•
Informal discussions are conducted during probationary period with centre’s
authorised supervisor.
•
New staff will shadow existing staff for the first day of employment.
•
Performance reviews are undertaken after the three-month trial and thereafter
yearly for permanent staff only.
•
All staff are invited to contribute to the centre’s decision making and
evaluations processes by attending staff meetings or adding their viewpoints
in writing.
102
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
INFECTION CONTROL POLICY
Aim
To establish practices to minimise the spread of infection at the centre by using
standard infection control precautions against the transmission of infection.
Resources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
Staying Healthy in Childcare 4th Edition
Procedures
Hand Washing
Facilities provided for appropriate hand washing for staff, children and parents
include:
•
•
•
Liquid soap dispenser on all basins
Single use paper towels or electric hand dryer provided for drying hands
Posters on correct hand washing displayed in kitchen, staff and children’s
bathrooms.
To ensure appropriate hand washing by children •
•
•
•
Children are taught the importance of hand washing and correct hand
washing techniques as part of the curriculum through pictures, stories and
modeling by staff
Children are taught and reminded to wash their hands frequently through the
day - before and after each meal, after using the toilet, after touching any
nose or mouth secretions or any other body fluids and after handling animals
or pets.
A staff member standing in the children’s bathroom closely supervises
children’s hand washing before meal times.
Children are encouraged to wash their hands on arrival and departure.
Staff must wash their hands•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Before feeding a child or handling food
Before and after giving first aid or medication
Before and after wearing disposable gloves
After toileting or changing a child’s nappy or underpants
After handling body fluids (blood, urine, saliva, mucus, vomit) and body waste
(Faces) and after wiping noses, mouths, sores even if wearing gloves.
After having touched a sore or any skin infection on self or a child
After cleaning
After handling pets or other animals
After handling raw food or garbage
On arrival and departure
103
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Toileting
Staff teach and model to children good hygiene practices related to toileting.
Children are asked to flush toilet, and thoroughly wash and dry their hands after
going to the toilet.
Staff place children’s soiled clothes in a securely tied plastic bag and kept
inaccessible to children ready for parents to take home.
Contact with Body Fluids
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Staff cover all cuts or open sores, particularly on their hands, with appropriate
dressing at all times at the centre.
Staff wear disposable gloves for any action that involves potential contact with
urine, faces, or a body fluid, and also wash their hands before and after
wearing the gloves.
If there is a spill of blood or body fluid onto a child or adult, staff wash the
affected area with soap and warm water.
If blood or body fluid is splashed in the eyes or mucous membrane, rinse with
running water for several minutes.
If blood or other body fluid contact an open wound or broken skin, the area is
thoroughly washed with soap and water.
Any implements used from the first aid box are soaked in a fresh bleach
solution made with 1 part bleach to 10 parts water for an hour.
In the event that a child requires bathing strict adherence to the procedures in
the bathing policy must be followed.
If blood or body fluid comes in contact with another child or staff’s eye, open wound,
or any mucous tissue, this is reported to the Director, and the relevant accident report
must be completed.
104
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
INTERACTIONS WITH CHILDREN POLICY
Aim
To ensure all staff are aware of guidelines specified in Children’s Services
Regulations 2004
Resource
Children’s Services Regulations 2004 (Clause 65).
Policy
STAFF WILL:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Encourage children to express themselves and their opinions.
Give children the opportunity to become self-reliant and develop self-esteem.
Give guidance as to positive and responsible behaviour.
Duties performed by children will remain consistent with each child’s family
and cultural values, age, physical and intellectual development.
Ensure that child management techniques DO NOT include physical, verbal
or emotional punishment.
Ensure that a child is not isolated at any time for any other reason than
illness, accident or pre arranged appointment with parental consent.
Ensure that positive guidance behaviour and encouragement is freely given.
Make sure that positive guidance behaviour policy is referred to should any
questions arise.
Ensure that values of children’s families are respected.
Support is given to children’s learning experiences.
Support and guidance is freely given to support emotional development.
Ensure that a child is not required to sleep or rest against child’s wishes or
needs.
Ensure that children are treated without bias regardless of ability, gender,
religion, culture, family structure or economic static’s.
Ensure that children with disabilities or who come from different cultural and
linguistic backgrounds are encouraged to fully participate (with any necessary
help and support).
Ensure that children with disabilities have access to buildings facilities support
services and specialised equipment and resources if required.
105
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
LATE COLLECTION OF CHILDREN POLICY
If the children are not collected by the time the centre closes, staff are to follow these
procedures:
a) At closing time: A fine of $1-00 per minute will be charged until the child is
collected.
b) Fifteen (15) minutes after closing time: Contact parents to collect the child.
c) Thirty (30) minutes after closing time: If unable to contact the parents, phone the
emergency people listed on the child’s enrolment form.
d) Remain with the child until collected by parents or emergency contacts.
e) If child not collected by 10:00 pm. Notify Police and ask them to collect the child.
106
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
MEDICATION POLICY
Aim
To establish clear procedures for the administration of medication at the centre, to
ensure compliance with the NSW Children’s Services Regulations and to ensure
children’s well being.
Resources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004 (Clause 81)
Policy
Medications Administered at the Centre
All attempts will be made to secure consent from parent/guardian should it become
necessary (in the event of an emergency) to administer medication without prior
consent.
All medication that parents / guardians require to be administered at the centre must
be supplied in its original container with clearly readable manufacturer instructions in
English regarding its use, and should be within its expiry date.
Medication administered at home
The centre director must be informed of any medication being administered to
children at home. Medication can affect children’s appetite, need for rest, and their
behaviour at preschool. We may need to make special arrangements in our routine
for such children, give them additional attention or closely monitor them for possible
side effects, which make it important that we know of medication children have taken
at home.
Prescribed medication
Any medication prescribed by the doctor is administered at Your Kids Our Kids only if
it has the printed pharmacy label clearly showing the child’s name, a recent
prescription date and doctor’s instructions regarding its administration.
Non-prescription medication is not administered at the Centre.
107
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Emergency medication:
One dose of Paracetamol can be administered at the centre as an emergency
measure ONLY if parents have completed and signed the “Permission for the
Emergency Administration of Medication”. The procedure described on the form is
followed when staff administer these medications in an emergency.
The centre will attempt to notify the parents before Paracetamol is administered.
When it is necessary to administer Paracetamol parents are required to sign the
medication book when they collect their child from the centre.
*** All children, including those on medication, are subject to the centre’s Exclusion
policy. As recommended by the National Health and Medical Research Council
(NHMRC), physically unwell children should not be sent to the centre even if they are
not contagious, to ensure they get adequate rest to recover.
*** The director will clarify any medication or health related issue with the Public
Health Unit or other appropriate authority, if in doubt about either the parent’s or
doctor’s instructions regarding administration of medication. The director’s decision
after this advice has been sought will be final.
Short Term Medication Procedure
In order for staff to administer medication, parents or other persons responsible for
the child must:
•
•
•
Notify staff that the child requires medication.
Fully complete ‘Authority to Administer Medication Form’ for each day that
staff need to administer medication to their child.
Place medication in locked medicine box in refrigerator
Staff are responsible for:
•
•
•
•
signing the ‘Authority to Administer Medication Form’ after accurately
recording time and dose of medication administered
Having dosage and administration witnessed and signed by another staff
member.
Ensure medicine is replaced in locked medicine box.
Convey any concerns regarding the administration of medication to
director.
Long Term Medication Procedure
In cases where a child has a medical condition that requires long term medication
(e.g. epilepsy, diabetics, asthma) the following guidelines must be followed.
108
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
•
•
Parents must provide a health management plan designed by the child’s doctor.
Centre staff must be informed of reviews to this plan when they occur and /or
written updates must be provided every three months.
Staff need to follow the same procedure as the ‘short term medication procedure’
when administering the medication.
• Even for long term medications, parents need to give the medication to staff
each day it has to be administered, and collect it at the end of the day.
If a child does not respond to medication administered at the centre the director will
contact the child’s parents / guardian and ask them to collect the child from the
centre, or may seek emergency medical assistance, depending on the urgency of the
situation.
**This policy has been formulated in consultation with the South Eastern Sydney
Public Health Unit.
109
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
MANAGEMENT POLICY
Your Kids our Kids Child Care Centre is seeking a license by the Department of
Community Services to provide a high quality, educational, long day care programme
for 29 children per day between the ages of 2 - 5 years.
The Centre will be open for 49 weeks of the year between 7am and 6pm Monday to
Friday. The Centre will close down annually for a three week period between
Christmas and January. Fees are not charged during this period
Children are required to be collected by 6 pm. A fine will be charged for children
collected after 6 pm. Parents may be required to show cause to the Director why
their enrolment should not be cancelled after three such late fines.
Your Kids our Kids Child Care Centre is managed by ESB Holdings PTY LTD.
Centre Management Structure
CENTRE DIRECTOR
•Teaching
•Administration
• Qualified
MANAGER
• Owner/Licensee
ACCREDITED CHILD CARE WORKERS
• Teaching
• Qualified
CHILD CARE WORKERS
• Teaching
• Unqualified or Training
ASSISTANT CHILD CARE WORKER
•Training to be qualified
110
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
COOK
• Safe Food Handling
Qualification
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
MANUAL HANDLING POLICY
Rational
Working with children aged 0 – 5 years of age puts staff at great risk of sustaining a
manual handling injury.
Manual handling means any activity requiring the use of force exerted by a person to
lift, lower, push, pull, carry or otherwise move, hold or restrain any living or non-living
object.
Aim
To prevent injury to staff due to interactions with children at the centre.
Resources
Procedure
Ways to prevent manual handling injuries:
a) Whenever possible, kneel rather than bend down, to avoid neck and back
problems.
b) Try to avoid carrying a child on your hip. Instead hold the child facing you with
c)
d)
e)
f)
one arm under the child’s buttocks and your other arm supporting the child’s
back.
When lifting awkward loads, be careful to lift with a balanced and comfortable
posture.
Minimise the need to reach above shoulder level.
Avoid extended reaching forward.
When carrying heavy and/or awkward equipment (i.e. tables, outdoor equipment)
ask for help with lifting and carrying. NEVER LIFT A TABLE BY YOURSELF.
Staff are to read and sign the manual handling booklet.
111
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
NAPPY CHANGE POLICY
Rational
Nappy changing time is an occasion when a young child has the caregiver's
undivided attention. It is a time for talking, playing, laughing and showing affection.
Negative words such as "dirty" should be avoided.
Aim
To provide young children requiring nappy changing with a positive experience.
Resources
National Health & Medical Research Council – www.nhmrc.gov.au
Procedure
Note: When following this procedure keep one hand on the child at all times.
a) Wash your hands
b) Wear disposable gloves and ensure you have everything you need before
commencing.
c) Place paper on the change table.
d) Hold the child away from your body when you pick him/her up and place the
child on the designated washable change mat.
e) Remove any clothes with urine or faeces on them – follow the soiled clothing
procedure.
f) Remove the child’s nappy and place it in a hands-free plastic-lined garbage
bin located under the changing area.
g) Clean the child’s bottom with a pre-moistened disposable towelette. Discard
the used towelette in the hands-free plastic-lined garbage bin located under
the changing area.
h) Remove the paper and put it in the garbage bin.
i) Remove gloves, peeling them back from your wrists, turning them indise out
as you go. Place in the garbage bin.
j) Place a new nappy on the child and dress them.
k) Have the child wash and dry their hands
l) Clean change table, then disinfect it.
m) Wash your hands.
In the event of a child requiring a cream / product the following applies:
a) Parent must complete a medication form
b) The cream / product must be in date usage
c) All directions on the cream / product must be followed to the labeled
instructions
d) The child’s name must be clearly written on the cream / product
e) Prescribed and unprescribed creams / products may be used if the
medication procedure is followed.
f) To apply cream / product clean gloves must be put on after the soiled nappy
is changed
g) Refer to medication policy if necessary.
112
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
TOILET & TOILET TRAINING POLICY
Rational
Aim
To minimise the spread and risk of infectious diseases that are transmitted by faces
and other bodily fluids by ensuring that toileting and toilet training are conducted in
an efficient way according to recommended guidelines and standards.
Resources
Children’s Services Regulation 2004
Health and Safety in Children’s Centers: Model Policies & Practices 2003
Policy
Parent and staff should decide together when the child is ready to begin toilet training
and will develop a plan together. Children must be ready to participate willingly.
Punishment will not be used for accidents; only positive reinforcement will be used.
When accidents occur the nappy changing procedure should be followed. After
using the toilet, children will be helped to flush the toilet and wash their hands.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Be aware that transmission of infection is more likely to occur.
Encourage children to flush the toilet after use.
Place soiled clothes in plastic bag for family to take home & keep inaccessible
to children.
Assist children to wash hands.
Disposable materials such as gloves, nappies and paper are disposed of at
the end of the day in sealed plastic bag.
Ensure children have sufficient clean clothing to change into when required.
Ensure plastic bags are inaccessible to children.
Awareness of culturally or religious reason for varying toileting procedures.
For example washing or douching instead of using toilet paper.
Procedure
For cleaning a child after toileting:
1) Put on gloves
2) Use appropriate damp bottom cloths (disposable preferably flushable) / toilet
paper
3) Remove gloves
4) Assist children to wash hands
5) Staff wash hands
113
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Should bathing be required BATHING POLICY must be observed.
For guiding children learning to toilet:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
Put on gloves
Place soiled clothes in plastic bag
Help child to use the toilet
Assist child to wash their hands
Remove gloves
Wash hands
114
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
NUT FREE POLICY
Rational
The nut free policy is put into place because as a centre we take
responsibility for the health and well being of our children, staff, families and
visiting community.
No person should be placed in a situation and/or environment that
may endanger their life, therefore it is Your Kids Our Kids Child Care Centre’s role to
notify and educate staff and parents about the dangers that peanuts and other nut
products may inflict on those who may suffer from these products.
Aim
To provide a safe and healthy environment for all children within our care, our centre
will adopt a “nut free policy” in order to minimise the risk of a child with severe allergy
having an anaphylactic reaction at the centre.
Resources
The Children’s Hospital Randwick.
Procedure
The “Nut Free Policy” applies to all children and families attending Your Kids Our
Kids immediately.
NO NUT products will be consumed or purchased for use within the centre. Please
be aware that this includes:
•
•
•
Peanut butter on sandwiches or within snack foods such as biscuit dippers.
Nutella or nutella products
Other obvious nut products including muesli bars or loose nuts.
Please remember that even trace amounts of nut substances can be potentially
life threatening for an allergic child. We need to work together to ensure that our
centre environment is a safe place for every child in attendance.
Parent Responsibilities
You need to notify the staff of our service if your child is at risk of an anaphylactic
reaction either at the time of enrolment or as soon after a diagnosis is made. As with
other health conditions, we will provide support to assist you in the management of
your child’s health. For this support to be effective it is important that:
•
•
A partnership is established between parents and the centre to share
information and clarify expectations.
An agreed emergency response strategy is developed
115
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
•
Every effort is made to minimise the exposure of children at risk top an
allergic reaction to known triggers within the school environment.
If your child has been identified of being at risk of an allergic or anaphylactic reaction
we will seek your assistance to:
•
•
•
•
Develop an individual health care plan
Complete documentation in relation to the administration of medication
required.
Supply the centre with written confirmation of food items that can be
consumed safely.
Develop alternative arrangements for your child in the case of special
occasions. I.e. children’s birthday parties.
For further information about this policy please feel free to talk to any staff member.
116
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
NUTRITION POLICY
Rational
Good nutrition is an essential ingredient of quality child care.
Children in Long Day Care may receive 50% - 70% of their food intake whilst in care.
It is therefore essential that the centre provides adequate nutrition in proportion to the
time spent in care. It is also the centre’s responsibility to help children develop good
food attitudes and habits.
Aim
To provide meals and snacks that meet the nutritional requirements for the children
in the centers care.
Resources
NSW Food Authority
Victorian Government Health Information http://www.health.vic.gov.au/nutrition/child_nutrition/index.htm
NCAC Nutrition in Child Care
Diary Australia
Policy
In order to achieve the aim of this policy, Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Centre will:
a) Provide attractively presented, tasty, colourful, nutritious foods that will be at least
50% of the recommended daily intake consistent with the Australian Dietary
Guidelines.
b) Cater to the individual needs of children but the centre cannot provide a full
special diet. This is to be provided by parents/guardians.
c) Ask parents/guardians to supply the centre with the information on who is
authorising and supervising any exclusive diet.
d) Ensure that meals are relaxed, pleasant and timed to meet the needs of the
children and
e) Encourage independence and social skills at meal times.
f)
Not use food as punishment, reward or bribe.
g) Not use any form of force feeding.
h) Establish healthy eating habits in the children by the incorporation of nutritional
education into the program and provide information to parents/guardians of
children’s nutritional needs through posters, parent library information, etc
i)
Communicate with parents/guardians about their child’s food intake, i.e. prepare
and display weekly menus, report daily on child’s food intake, discuss concerns,
etc.
j)
Contain costs to budget without compromising nutrition.
k) Encourage staff to present themselves as role models, maintaining good
personal nutrition.
117
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
l)
Establish regular meal and snack times. Provide nutritious snacks mid-morning
and mid-afternoon. Provide a late afternoon snack for children still at the centre
at 5 pm. Drinking water is available to the children at all times.
m) Use plates, utensils and furniture appropriate to children’s sizes and skills.
n) Offer utensils, but don’t insist toddlers use them. Allow toddlers to touch, smell
and explore their food.
o) Offer a wide variety of foods from different cultures - both different foods and the
same food prepared in different ways. Introduce gradually to increase
acceptance.
p) Staff sit with the children during meal times.
118
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
FOOD SAFETY
General
a) The centre does not serve nuts, whole grapes or cherries to children under the
age of four. If a child chokes while eating, these foods can be breathed into the
lungs.
b) All staff need to be aware of any children’s food allergies.
c) Children should be supervised while eating and drinking.
d) Food and bottles that are too hot will not be served to the children.
119
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
OPEN DOOR POLICY
Rational
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Centre is proud of the relationship we have established
with our families. In all aspects of the Centre’s operations, families are encouraged
to participate. We believe caring for children is a partnership between staff and
families and therefore value any input received.
Aim
This policy aims to provide parents with confidence that their children’s care is a joint
venture and to show the high value we place on parent input and contributions.
Source
This policy has been developed in consultation with Management, Staff, Families and
our P&C Committee.
Policy
We welcome parents or family members who wish to visit the centre at any time, this
includes prospective families.
Families are encouraged to visit to share any special talents or skills they may have
or even share something from their work.
Family members are encouraged to come and share in story time or even share an
experience such as cooking, music, craft, or any other ideas they may have that will
enrich the children’s experience at the centre.
Families are encouraged to participate in;
Parent Committees
Family Social Nights
Fundraising events
Participation in programming
Christmas Parties
Theme days
Open communication is encouraged through our notice board, information pockets,
daily communication book, newsletters, discussions, daily exchange of information,
interviews and feedback forms. We value the intimate knowledge parents have of
their children and wish to draw on this knowledge to assist us in developing our
programs so that they best meet the needs of each child.
Important Note
Our Open Door Policy does not override any legal Court Orders which may be in
place regarding Access or Custody.
120
Created January 2008
Reviewed June 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
ORIENTATION POLICY
Aim
To give children and families an opportunity to familiarise with the centre
To allow the centre to record relevant information about each child, complete the
enrolment procedures, and collect the starting fee of two weeks.
Resources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
(For this policy the regulations have been used as a general reference)
Enrollment Process Flow Diagrams – Chart 2.1 & Chart 2.2
Policy
All families are invited, by appointment, to spend a morning or a number of hours
during the course of several days; at the service before their children start at the
centre. Children cannot be left at the centre unaccompanied by their
parents/guardians during this orientation visit.
During this visit a staff member will show the family around the centre, and complete
all the relevant enrolment procedures.
During the Orientation process, children’s interests are discussed with parents and
an information exchange is established.
121
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
REST AND SLEEP POLICY
Rational
There is a wide range of 'normal' sleep patterns between 2 and 5 years. Many
children of this age need about 10 to 12 hours of sleep at night. Due to the busy
schedules of many families, children may not get adequate sleep during the night so
a daytime rest is vital to provide them with the additional rest they need for healthy
growth and development.
In order to provide the children in our care with a safe rest environment
recommendations from SIDS & Kids have been incorporated into this policy along
with our centre’s standard hygiene and safety practices.
Aim
Our Rest and Sleep policy is written to provide the necessary strategies and
resources so that the children in our care feel secure and safe, enabling them to rest
comfortably. Our policy is based on recommendations from SIDS & Kids. Where
necessary, we consult with parents and relevant medical practitioners to cater for
individual children’s needs in the area of rest.
Our Centre defines ‘rest’ as a period of inactivity, solitude, calmness or tranquility,
and can include a child being in a state of sleep.
Source
SIDS & Kids website: http://www.sidsandkids.org/
Policy
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The Centre has a defined rest time commencing after lunch, children a
encouraged to begin leaving the rest area at 2.30pm.
All children will rest on their own bed with their own bed linen as provided by
the centre. (Refer to the Children’s Sheets/Bed linen Procedure).
Comfort aids may be used if provided by the family, e.g. blankets, dummies,
pillows.
Children will be allowed to find their own sleeping position.
All children will rest with their face uncovered.
As this centre is a smoke free environment, the children’s rest environments
are free from cigarette or tobacco smoke.
As per this centre’s Occupational Health & Safety Policy, the rest
environment, equipment and materials will be safe and free from hazards.
Quiet music will be played and all window coverings will be drawn to foster a
dark, quiet and calm environment for tranquil rest and where appropriate
sleep.
Quiet experiences may be offered to preschoolers who do not fall asleep after
a short period of rest.
Children who are unwell will be given the highest supervision priority and
monitored constantly especially if the child has: a high temperature, vomited
or received minor trauma to their head. Unwell children will be cared for
according to the centre’s Caring For Sick Children Procedure.
122
Created January 2008
Reviewed June 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Protective behaviours and practices
• All children who are resting will be supervised by staff.
• Students or volunteers will not be left unsupervised when settling children for
a rest.
• All children who have fallen asleep in the service will be monitored regularly
with specific attention to breathing patterns.
• Every 10-15 minutes staff observe the following:
– the position of each child’s body on their mattress, ensuring no child’s
head becomes covered by bed linen or comfort aids and where necessary
the staff member will move bed linen;
– each child’s breathing rate. If a child is not breathing then the staff
member will commence the ABC of first aid when dealing with an
unconscious patient;
Settling children for rest
Where necessary staff will assist individual children to settle for rest time using the
most appropriate techniques that have been found useful for that individual child or
as recommended by the child’s parents.
Clothing worn during rest
• Jumpers with hoods and cords present a higher risk of choking and children
will be encouraged to remove these garments during rest time.
• Shoes will be removed prior to rest time and children will be encouraged to
use their self-help skills to put their shoes in the shoe box and also to put
them back on after rest time.
123
Created January 2008
Reviewed June 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
RETENTION OF RECORDS POLICY
Aim
To ensure all children, family and staff information is maintained securely and
confidentially, for the period stipulated by the Children’s Services Regulations.
To ensure records are readily available to authorised persons as necessary
Resources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004 (CL 96)
Retention of Children’s Records
For currently enrolled children, all their information except for their development
records is kept in the filing cabinet. Children’s developmental records are kept on the
centre premises.
Children’s records are kept at the centre after the child leaves the centre. Relevant
records are kept until the child reaches the age of 24 years, after which they are
destroyed.
The Centre keeps a record for each child including:
•
Application and enrolment information
•
Checklists, observation records and progress reports
•
Illness and Injury reports
•
Immunisation records
•
Attendance records.
The following persons have access to children’s records•
•
•
•
•
Primary contact staff (for currently enrolled children)
Parents anytime upon request (for their own children)
Other persons authorised by the parents in writing
The licensee of the centre
An authorized office bearer from the NSW Department of Community
Services
Records are kept for the length of time required by DOCS
Information about goods ordered will be kept at the centre for 1 year and then be
discarded. Warranty information will be kept with proof of purchase for the purchase
for the term of the warranty and will then be discarded. Information about leased
goods will be kept at the centre for the term of the lease and will then be discarded.
124
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Copies of the self-study report and accompanying evidence given to the National
Childcare Accreditation Council (NCAC) for the centre’s accreditation is kept at the
centre for 5 years.
Staff records are retained for a period of 7 years after staff member is no longer
employed by the service.
Copies of all correspondence with the Department of Community Services (DoCS),
relating to licensing issues will be kept at the centre for 5 years. Other
correspondence with DoCS is kept at the centre for 1 year and then discarded.
Retention of Other Records
•
•
•
•
All programs & developmental records are kept at the centre for one year and
then destroyed.
Completed ‘satisfaction surveys’ are kept at the centre for 2 years and then
destroyed.
Copies of notes and newsletters given to families are kept at the centre for 2
years and then discarded.
Staff sign-in books are kept at the centre for a minimum of five years.
125
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
ROUTINES POLICY
Rational
Children in child care spend a lot of time in routine activities such as eating, sleeping
and toileting. Children do not distinguish between learning, playtime and other times
so it is important that routines are viewed as an integral part of the program.
Routines give children a sense of order in their day but should be flexible. It is
important that the day flows naturally and routines are based on the needs of the
children.
Routines such as washing, eating and sleeping also serve as valuable learning
experiences. They help children to learn habits of health and safety, as well as to
develop healthy attitudes about their bodies and its functions.
Daily Routine charts are displayed for parents and staff to consult.
REST AND SLEEP
Sleep routines are flexible to meet the varying needs of each child.
Older children have one sleep a day after lunch. Music, stories and books may be
used to settle the children at sleep time and restime.
MEAL TIMES
Mealtimes should be a relaxed affair, catering to each child’s needs. Eating is a
social time and children learn new skills by observation and imitation. Children will
not be forced to eat but encouraged to try different foods. Extra helpings are readily
available.
The centre aims to provide attractive, nutritious food in a pleasant environment.
The staff member’s role during mealtimes is to create a family-like situation by
interacting with the children and each staff member should sit at a table with a group
of children. Children should be encouraged to serve themselves and scrape their
own plates.
Menus are displayed weekly for parent’s information and what each child ate for
lunch is recorded in the sign-in books.
126
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
CHILDRENS SHEETS / BED LINEN PROCEDURE
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Centre provides the childrens sleeping sheets / bed
linen.
Each child is to sleep on one bed per child. Sheets will be placed on the individual
beds and used by each intended child only. If a child attends in consective days the
sheet will remain in place and that childs bed will be tagged with their name. Only
the one child will use the sheet at a time.
Staff will remove the sheets when the bed is required for another child. The beds
themselves will be disinfected when this occurs. Disinfecting beds occurs if not on a
daily basis, each week.
Childrens sheets will be washed each week or at the end of their attendance.
Sheets will be washed and stored on the premises.
Clean sheets will be provided to children at all times.
Sheets will be kept in good repair and remain hygienic. Over time any sheets that are
not hygenic and / or in ill repair will be replaced.
127
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
SOILED CLOTHING PROCEDURE – CLEANING AND STORING
Aim
To minimise carers’, staff’s and children’s risks of contact with soiled clothing and
transmission of infectious diseases.
Source
Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000
Staying Healthy in Child Care 4th Edition
Practices
When cleaning, disposing and storing any soiled clothing, carers should:
•
Use single use gloves
•
Place soiled clothing
In a plastic bag
Tie a knot
Label with childs name
Place in bin with lid under the bench in locked cupboard
Limit carrying soiled clothing, put directly into a plastic bag
Any surrounding areas exposed to the soiled clothing is to be
disinfected
If used; the basin/shower area is to be disinfected immediately
after soiled clothing and/or child has come into contact with it.
• Send home plastic bag containing clothing with the parent at the end of day.
Staff will inform parents if this situation occurs.
• The bin is to be washed out with disinfectant after any use.
Note: Infectious diseases can be transmitted via contact with soiled clothing. Safe
cleaning, disposal and storage of clothing can prevent the transmission of
infectious diseases.
128
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
RECRUITING PERMANENT STAFF
AIM:
• To ensure that the best person possible is employed for any position available
within the centre.
• To ensure that a fit and proper person is employed for any position available.
• To provide a fair and equitable procedure that allows all applicants equal
opportunity in the employment process.
• To comply with requirements of State and Federal Governments
• To provide equal opportunities to all persons seeking employment with Your Kids
Our Kids Childcare Centre.
• To involve parents and staff in the selection of staff for the centre.
EXPLANATION:
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Centre places great emphasis upon the quality of the
staff employed at the centre as this is seen to be the main determinant of the quality
of care provided at the centre. It is therefore essential that the recruitment process
ensures that the best possible person is employed for any position which may
become available.
Licensing states:A person is fit and proper if:
• the person is capable of providing an adequate standard of child care in
accordance with the person’s actual or proposed role in the centre;
• understands the needs of children, families and centre based staff and is
capable of performing the professional duties of the position; and
the person is of good character and is suitable to be entrusted with the
care of children.
The test of good character includes taking into account:
• convictions in Australia or overseas, of any offence involving children.
Offences against children include abuse, assault and neglect.
• any action taken in Australia or overseas, in respect of the protection of
children who were under the guardianship or custody of the person.
ACTION:
Permanent Positions.
• At the discretion of management, in consultation with the Director, permanent staff
positions may be advertised or may be offered to existing permanent staff who
may wish to change their role within the centre. Positions may also be offered to
regular relief staff, casuals or part time staff who meet the selection criteria.
• All positions for permanent staff vacancies not filled by the process described
above are to be advertised in media, as felt to be appropriate, to attract the best
possible applicants.
129
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
• Job Specifications including Duty Statements and Selection Criteria will be
provided to applicants.
• Applicants will be required to address the Selection Criteria in their application for
the position.
• An interview panel will be formed and will consist of:
• For the position of Director:
~ The current Director OR another senior staff person as a consultant;
~ Management;
• For the position of Administrator or Team Leader:
~ The Director;
~ Management.
• For other positions within the centre:
~ The Director;
~ The Team Leader or Leaders with whom the applicant will be working.
~ A representative from the Parent Committee should it be felt to be
necessary.
• The Director will review all applications and will advise the interview panel on
which applicants should be interviewed.
• The interview panel should devise questions to ask in the interview. These
questions should be devised using the Duty Statement and Selection Criteria.
Each panel member should be aware of who will ask each question.
• Referees should be contacted if an applicant is being considered for the position.
• Suitable candidates will be asked to sign a form to allow a Police Check to be
conducted as soon as possible.
• Unsuccessful applicants who have not been invited to interview will be sent a
letter explaining this within two weeks of close of applications.
• Unsuccessful applicants who have been interviewed will be telephoned within 48
hours of having been interviewed if possible.
• Successful applicants will be contacted by telephone within 48 hours of having
been interviewed. A letter of Appointment, a Staff Handbook and a Work Schedule
will be provided to the successful applicant as soon as possible.
• The successful applicant will need to satisfactorily complete a three month
probationary period before being appointed to a permanent position.
• In the event that the interview panel is not able to select a suitable applicant from
those interviewed then the position may be re-advertised. If it is decided to wait for
a certain time to re-advertise then a casual person may be appointed to fill the
position until a satisfactory applicant can be found.
Temporary Positions.
• Any temporary position (for example, maternity leave, leave without pay, long
service leave) will be filled at the discretion of the Director in consultation with the
staff and the management.
Any temporary position that is unable to be satisfactorily filled should be advertised
and the procedure outlined in this policy followed.
Selection Committee
All prospective permanent, full-time staff will be interviewed by a panel comprising
the Director and the Licensee. Applicants must be provided with a job description,
invited to read through the centre’s Staff Policy and advised that the centre will
130
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
conduct pre-employment screening, i.e. The Working with Children Check. All
applicants must declare whether or not they are a prohibited person by filling out the
required declaration form.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The centre is an Equal Opportunity Employer and selection of individuals for
positions is based on merit, expressed in terms of the criteria established for each
vacancy.
131
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
STAFF POLICIES
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Documentation
On appointment staff will be provided with copies of all policies, job descriptions,
routines and advice on safe lifting procedures.
Probation
Appointment is subject to completion of a satisfactory probation period of three
months.
At regular intervals during these periods the employee will meet with the Director for
discussion of his/her performance and work attitude and to discuss any difficulties or
problems being experienced.
Before the probationary period is completed the Director must report on the
employee’s suitability to the Licensee. On the recommendation of the Director the
Licensee can extend the probationary period if necessary. The employee must be
notified of this in writing.
The Centre can terminate the employment of staff on probation with:
1 day’s notice under the Child Care Worker’s Award.
Probationary staff need give only an equivalent notice should they wish to leave.
Hours
Staff work a 38 hour week. Full-time permanent staff are required to work an eight
hour shift between the hours of 7:00 am to 6:00 p.m. and are entitled to a 30 minute
crib break each day during that period plus 10 minutes morning and afternoon tea
breaks.
Where staff are required to do programming for group time, non-contact time will be
provided for preparation each week.
Rostered Days Off
Fulltime staff accrue 12 rostered days off per year to be taken in one block of five
consecutive days and seven separate days subject to negotiation.
Annual Leave
As per the relevant award.
Annual leave is to be taken during the Christmas/New Year closure with the
remainder to be taken at a time suitable to the centre.
132
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Sick Leave
As per the relevant award.
Meetings
Staff are required to attend night time staff meetings for which time-in-lieu is given.
Time-in-Lieu
To be taken when mutually convenient.
Staff Appraisals
Staff will undertake regular appraisals of their performance.
STAFF DEVELOPMENT
The centre recognises the need for all staff to have access to continuing education.
Staff are encouraged, within the constraints of the centre’s budget, to attend inservice training as it becomes available. In-service course costs will be paid by the
centre from the budget allocation for staff development. Where possible time-in-lieu
will be given for attendance.
Staff are encouraged to undertake further study in the field of early childhood
education and are entitled to paid leave for practical work and examinations.
COMMUNICATION AND CONFLICT MANAGEMENT
Because staff work closely with each other, it is important that communication
channels remain open. Unresolved conflicts and disagreements take up time,
increase tensions and are destructive.
Communication takes place:
•
Informally
•
At staff meetings held weekly during the day.
Conflict Resolution in-service will be organised as required.
DISPUTE SETTLEMENT PROCEDURE
The Centre aims to prevent disputes and achieve a satisfactory solution when
disputes arise.
Initially the matter should be discussed between the employee(s) and the Director. If
it remains unresolved the matter should be discussed with the Licensee. If the
problem still remains unresolved the Licensee of the centre will be consulted.
DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE
The Centre requires that the staff perform their duties efficiently and effectively.
When this does not happen the following procedures will be followed to ensure the
issues are addressed in a consistent and equitable manner.
133
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
During each step of the disciplinary procedure the Director should explain to the
employee the nature of the unsatisfactory performance and develop a plan with the
employee to change the unsatisfactory behaviour. It should be made clear to the
employee what standard of behaviour and performance is required. The employee
shall be given the opportunity to respond to claims.
If after an initial informal warning, the level of performance does not improve the
Director will provide a First Formal Warning. After a suitable period of time if an
adequate standard of performance is not reached a Final Warning will be issued. It
should be explained to the employee that if the problem is not immediately rectified
steps will be taken to terminate their employment.
STAFFING LEVELS AND QUALIFICATIONS
The Director has a Diploma of Teaching (Early Childhood).
The centre will look at options of employing staff with
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Diploma of Teaching (Early Childhood)
Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood)
Diploma in Children’s Services (Centre Based)
Certificate in Child Care Studies
Child Care Certificate
Nursing qualifications.
Untrained Child Care Workers some of whom are in the process of gaining
qualifications.
A Cook with Safe Food Handling Training
The Department of Community Services requires at least one staff member for every
five children under two years, one for every eight children aged two, and one for
every ten children aged between three and five years.
STAFF RECORDS
Employees will provide evidence of current qualifications (certified by a J.P) and a
first aid certificate.
The centre will keep records of staff rosters and day to day attendance.
The centre will ensure confidentiality of information concerning staff.
134
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
JOB DESCRIPTIONS
DIRECTOR
Responsible to Your Kids our Kids Child Care Centre
The Director is also the Authorised Supervisor approved by the NSW Dept of
Community Services and must comply with the requirements of an Authorised
Supervisor under the Children (Care an Protection) Act 1987, Centre Based and
Mobile Child Care Services Regulation (No 2) 1996.
Aims of the position
•
To generate an environment that meets the emotional, social, educational and
physical needs of the children at the centre.
•
To foster staff relationships so that the work environment will be rewarding for
staff.
•
To foster parent relationships so that parents feel happy and content about
leaving their child at the centre.
Duties of the position
a) The control and operation of the programme of the centre.
i)
ii)
Develop and implement the centre’s programme, both social and
educational, in consultation with the staff, parents, and licensee.
Oversee the social and educational programme of the centre, including
regular assessment and updating of children’s programme.
b) Children Families and the community
i)
Plan, implement, maintain and regularly evaluate procedures for keeping
accurate records (developmental, health, etc.) on each child.
ii)
Implement and maintain a referral system for children who have special
needs.
iii)
Complete reports on children at risk, attend relevant case conferences,
appear in court when necessary, and supervise all aspects of these
children’s integration into the centre.
iv)
Oversee the planning and organisation of excursions out of, and
performances into the centre, by contact staff.
v)
Attend to general inquiries of parents and the community.
vi)
Show visitors, new and prospective parents, over the centre.
vii)
Interview parents; complete all enrolment procedures for new children.
viii)
Orientate, in conjunction with staff, new parents and children to the
centre.
ix)
Be available to discuss with parents any concerns, problems, queries, etc.
they may have.
x)
Encourage parent participation and involvement through:
135
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
•
xi)
involvement in the daily programme (e.g. excursions/visits)
Supply regularly updated information through:
•
displaying of notices, posters, etc;
•
displaying of the minutes of meetings;
•
newsletter, circulars, brochures.
xii)
Keep lists of referral services for parents.
xiii)
Establish links with other associated services in the area. Liaise with:
•
Federal and State Governments.
•
•
DOCS Advisor (Licensing, health, safety regulations).
Industrial Officers/Unions.
•
Legal Authorities.
•
Community Services/Organisations.
•
•
Children’s Hospital Services.
Resource centre’s/people.
•
Special Needs Advisors.
•
Other Early Childhood centre’s, agencies, personnel.
c) Students and volunteers
i)
To organise and supervise students and volunteers on placement.
ii)
To orientate new students and volunteers to the centre and ensure that
they are aware of and abide by the rules/regulations, policies etc. of the
centre.
e) Administrative Matters ( Conducted by the Director)
i)
Maintain adequate financial records for the centre. These will include:
•
Accounts
•
Fees
•
Fee Relief
ii)
•
Petty Cash
Prepare a yearly budget for the centre.
iii)
Monitor spending in all areas of the budget throughout the year.
iv)
Establish, and supervise all necessary records:
v)
•
•
Accurate and well organised waiting lists.
Daily staff and child attendance roll books.
•
Child records (annual and sick leave, worker’s comp. etc.).
•
Child Care Benefit forms.
•
•
Child Care Benefit Quarterly Reports.
Medication Books.
•
Permission for Excursion forms.
•
Notice of Injury/Illness forms.
The preparation of submissions, as required.
136
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
f)
vi)
Monitor fee collection, bad debtors, banking.
vii)
Answer telephone inquiries.
viii)
Handle all matters relating to the administration of the centre.
Maintenance and Equipment
i)
Ensure that the centre conforms to health, safety and licensing
regulations.
ii)
Maintain an adequate level of equipment and supplies (cleaning,
educational, food, office, medical, etc.) and purchase new equipment in
line with the budget allocation.
iii)
Supervise the maintenance of the equipment, regularly checking for
breakages, etc.
iv)
Remain aware of the general condition of the centre, supervise its
upkeep, suggesting improvements and maintaining an adequate level of
safety and hygiene.
v)
Supervise the cleaning of the centre and liaise regularly with cleaning
staff.
g) General
i)
Evaluate own work as a director.
ii)
Keep abreast of research and new developments in the field of early
childhood services and pass these on to staff and parents.
iii)
Maintain an active system of parent/staff/community and centre
relationships.
iv)
Gather relevant information, and use in appropriate ways to ensure the
quality of care offered by the centre.
Attend and participate in local events, conferences and lectures.
137
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Child Care Worker
Responsible to Your Kids our Kids Child Care Centre
The Child Care Worker must comply with the requirements under the Children (Care
and Protection) Act, Centre Based and Mobile Child Care Services Regulation (No 2)
1996.
Aims of the position
•
To generate an environment that meets the emotional, social, educational and
physical needs of the children at the centre.
•
To foster staff relationships so that the work environment will be rewarding for
staff.
•
To foster parent relationships so that parents feel happy and content about
leaving their child at the centre.
Duties of the position
a) Help out with the control and operation of the programme of the centre.
i)
Develop and implement the centre’s programme, both social and
educational, in consultation with the Director.
ii)
Oversee the social and educational programme of the centre, including
regular assessment and updating of children’s programme.
iii)
Observations and individual planning and programme implementation for
the children and providing up to date information for the Director relating
to the child’s development.
b) Children, Families and the Director
i)
Plan, implement, maintain and regularly evaluate procedures for keeping
accurate records (developmental, health, etc.) on each child.
ii)
Implement and maintain a referral system for children who have special
needs.
iii)
Attend to general inquiries of the Director.
ix)
Be available to discuss with the Director any concerns, problems, queries,
etc.
x)
Encourage parent participation and involvement through:
•
xi)
involvement in the daily programme (e.g. excursions/visits)
Supply regularly updated information through:
•
displaying of notices, posters, etc;
•
displaying of the minutes of meetings;
•
newsletter, circulars, brochures.
xii)
Work with the 2-6 year old section managing, supervising and interacting
with the children.
xiii)
Changing Nappies
xiv)
Food Preparation and Handling
138
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
c) Maintenance and Equipment
i)
Ensure that the centre conforms to health, safety and licensing
regulations.
ii)
Maintain an adequate level of equipment and supplies (cleaning,
educational, food, office, medical, etc.)
iii)
Supervise the maintenance of the equipment, regularly checking for
breakages, etc.
iv)
Remain aware of the general condition of the centre, supervise its
upkeep, suggesting improvements and maintaining an adequate level of
safety and hygiene.
v)
Cleaning of the centre.
vi)
Filling.
d) General
i)
Evaluate own work as a child Care Worker.
ii)
Keep abreast of research and new developments in the field of early
childhood services and pass these on to the Director.
iii)
Gather relevant information, and use in appropriate ways to ensure the
quality of care offered by the centre.
139
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
COOK
Duties of the position
a) With the assistance of the director, other staff, and parents, to prepare a menu on
a monthly basis.
b) Organise orders for bulk food buying and weekly and daily deliveries for fresh
food.
c) Check accuracy of food deliveries made to the centre; and be responsible for
packing away all food delivered to the centre.
d) Prepare morning tea, lunch, afternoon and late afternoon tea for children and
staff.
e) Wash up, and pack away, after morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea.
f)
To be responsible for cleanliness and tidyness in the kitchen:
g) To be willing to prepare for cooking activities with the children.
h) To be responsible for safety in the kitchen environment.
i)
To be willing to attend in-service courses etc., where appropriate.
j)
To respond positively to parents and children.
k) To attend centre functions which may be held outside of working hours.
l)
Other duties as requested by the director from time to time.
m) To be responsible for the washing and drying of all laundry.
140
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY
Aim
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Centre is committed to providing a healthy and safe
workplace and to eliminating conditions and incidents which could result in personal
injury or ill health. The Childcare requires its activities to conform with relevant state
and federal legislation and good, established practices including Australian
Standards. The Childcare will provide staff and students with guidelines on, and
training in, safe work practices, as well as information on identification and control of
hazards in the workplace.
Legislative Requirements
Children’s Services Regulation’s 2004,
National Childcare Accreditation Council Quality Practices Guide 1st Edition 2005.
Australian Standards for storage and handling of hazardous chemicals and materials.
Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000
Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001
National Childcare Accreditation Council
Resources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004 www.community.nsw.gov.au
Kidsafe. (2000). Kidsafe: Child safety resource manual. Victoria: Kidsafe Victoria.
McLeod, P. (2005). Health and safety information on the internet. Putting Children
First, 15, 12-13.
Managing OHS in children’s services: A model for implementing an Occupational
Health and Safety (OHS) management system in your children’s service. NSW: Lady
Gowrie Child Centre.
Policy
Employees must cooperate with their employers attampts to meet their legal
responsibilities in health, welfare and safety matters by:
•
•
•
•
•
complying with occupational health and safety instructions
taking action to avoid, eliminate or minimise hazards
making proper use of safety devices and personal protective equipment (eg
gloves)
not deliberately placing at risk the health, safety or well-being of others at the
workplace
being familiar with emergency and evacuation procedures and the location of
emergency equipment.
There will be a staff member appointed as the Occupational Health and Safety
Officer.
There will be an annual Safety Audit and examination of staff injury records carried
out by the Director, the Occupational Health and Safety Officer.
141
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Guidelines for Staff to Report OH&S Matters to Management
Staff members should report OH&S matters to management immediately or as soon
as it is safe to do so.
All hazards should be reported using the Maintenance Log and Hazard Identification
form.
When identifying hazards, staff should ensure that the hazard will not continue to
pose a safety risk to staff, children, parents and visitors to the centre. This can be
done by removing the hazard if it is safe to do so or by creating an exclusion zone
around the hazard until it can be corrected.
ILLNESS and INJURY REPORTS - STAFF
Staff members should report injuries promptly.
A record of staff injuries and incidents will be kept and reviewed regularly. It will
include date, time, location, injury, brief description of events and adult witnesses. A
copy of the report will be included in staff personal files.
Staff members should provide an emergency contact person.
All staff records will be kept confidential but staff will be allowed to see their own
records.
WORKERS COMPENSATION
The Director will handle compensation matters for the Centre. They also handle
rehabilitation when appropriate.
The Centre undertakes to handle its part of the paper work promptly and encourages
staff to do likewise.
142
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
STORAGE OF DANGEROUS SUBSTANCES AND DANGEROUS
EQUIPMENT POLICY
Rational
The health and safety of the staff and children at Your Kids Our Kids Childcare
Centre is of paramount importance. The Centre’s commitment to meeting all State
and Federal legislative requirements in regards to Occupational Health & Safety
guidelines is reflected in this policy.
Aim
To minimise the potential hazards that are associated with the storage of dangerous
substances and equipment.
Resource
Children’s Services Regulations 2004.(Clause 70.)
Practice
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
All dangerous cleaning materials disinfectants, poisons and other dangerous
substances including medications are kept in child resistant labelled
containers and in locked containers or cupboards.
Dangerous substances are stored securely and are made inaccessible to
children.
Tools and equipment are kept in inaccessible areas.
First Aid equipment and medications are kept in locked containers e.g. for
those that need refrigeration a locked container is provided.
Sharp and jaggered objects are disposed of safely and immediately or
removed for repair.
No substance or equipment that poses a hazard to children will be left
unlocked or accessible to children by any staff member.
MSDS Charts are available for all chemical products used. MSDS are
located at each point where the chemical may be present.
143
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
SUNSAFE POLICY
Rationale
Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. Research has indicated that
young children and babies have sensitive skin that places them at particular risk of
sunburn and skin damage. Exposure during the first 15 years of life can greatly
increase the risk of developing skin cancer in later life. Early Childhood Services play
a major role in minimising a child’s UV exposure as children attend during times
when UV radiation levels are highest.
Your Kids Our Kids child Care Centre has a duty of care to ensure that all children
and staff are provided with a high level of sun protection during the hours of the
centre’s operation.
The centre believes that a sun protection program is important because exposure
during childhood, including severe sunburn, is an important risk factor in the
development of skin cancer in later life. The centre provides adequately shaded
outdoor play spaces.
Aim
To protect staff and children from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from
the sun.
To promote among children, staff and families, habits that help reduce the level of
exposure to the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun.
Resources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004.
NSW Cancer Council recommendations for Child Care Services 2006
Occupational Health Safety Act
NSW Cancer Council SunSmart Childcare Guide 2008
Procedure
The following procedures must be followed during all outdoor activities:
a) At the beginning of each day the UV Index will be checked by accessing the
Bureau of Meteorology website
http://www.bom.gov.au/products/UV/Sydney_NSW.shtml
b) The centre will use a combination of sun protection measures whenever UV
Index levels reach 3 and above. This will include:
•
From October to March sun protection is required at all times. Extra sun
protection is needed between 11am and 3pm and during this period outdoor
activities should be minimised. Minimising outdoor activities includes reducing
both the number of times (frequency) and the length of time (duration)
children are outside.
144
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
•
From April to September (excluding June and July) outdoor activity can take
place at any time. However, from 10am – 2pm sun protection is required.
•
In June and July when the UV index is mostly below 3, sun protection is not
required. Extra care is needed for services in the far west and north of NSW
and for all children who have very fair skin.
a) Set activities under the shaded areas of the playground and move throughout the
day to take advantage of shade patterns.
•
The staff will continually assess the shade coverage of the outdoor play
environment and see avenues to improve the conditions if required.
b) Staff and children are required to wear sun safe hats that protect their face, neck
and ears, examples of acceptable sun safe hats are, broad brimmed, bucket or
legionnaire’s hats.
•
Children without a sun safe had will be asked to play in an area protected
from sun, e.g. under shade, veranda or indoors, however where staff ratios
are not appropriate, indoors can not be an option.
•
Spare hats may be available for children who do not have a hat. The centre
will ensure that hats are laundered after each use to minimize cross infection.
c) Apply SPF 30+, broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen at least 20 minutes
before going out into the sun and reapply every 2 hours. A thin layer of sunscreen
should be left on the skin.
•
Staff are to follow the Cancer Council guidelines on how to apply sunscreen.
d) If any child is allergic to the sunscreen provided by the centre, the parent will
need to provide their own sunscreen.
e) Staff and children will wear sun safe clothing that covers as much of the skin
(especially the shoulders, back and stomach) as possible. This includes wearing:
•
Loose-fitting shirts and dresses with sleeves and collars or covered neckline
•
Longer-style skirts, shorts and trousers.
Role Modeling
As children learn by example, staff will act as role models and demonstrate sun safe
behaviour by complying with the centers sun safe policy as per the Occupational
Health & Safety Act. This will be achieved by staff modeling the following behaviors:
a) Wearing a sun safe hat
b) Wearing sun safe clothing
c) Applying SPF30+ broad-spectrum water-resistant sunscreen 20 minutes before
going outdoors
d) Using and promoting shade
e) Wearing sunglasses that meet the Australian Standard 1067 (this is an optional
behaviour dependent on the preference of individual staff members)
Visitors to the centre are encouraged to role model positive sun safe behaviours.
145
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
Education
The education of children, staff and families will be an ongoing process at the centre.
The following procedures have been identified:
a) Teach the children the Sun Smart behaviors as recommended by the Cancer
Council.
b) Parents are required to sign a consent form if they wish sunscreen to be used on
their children.
c) On enrollment parents purchase a centre hat which complies with the sun safe
hat recommendations as made by the Cancer Council.
•
As sun safe hat is:
o
Legionnaire hat
o
Bucket hat with a deep crown and brim size of at lease 5cm (adults 6cm)
o
Broad brimmed hat with a brim size of at least 6cm (adults 7.5cm)
d) On enrollment parents are provided with a NSW Cancer Council fact sheet “How
to save your child’s skin”.
e) On enrollment parents are provides with a list of clothing options that meet sun
safe guidelines.
f)
Sun safe behaviors and centre requirements are clearly outlined in the Parent
Handbook
g) Ongoing information provided to parents on sun safety through centre newsletter
and P&C Committee.
h) Teachers will be provided with material to supplement and where necessary
update their current sun safe knowledge.
Policy Availability
The sun protection policy, updates and requirements (including hat, clothing and
sunscreen) will be made available to staff, families and visitors.
Policy Review
Management, staff and parents will monitor and review the effectiveness of the sun
protection policy and any related documents on a regular basis.
A thorough review will be undertaken every two years and the reviewed policy will be
submitted for review by the Cancer Council to ensure compliance with best practice.
Additional information on the Cancer Council’s guidelines can be found on their
website www.cancercouncil.com.au/sunsmart
146
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
SAFETY POLICY
Aim
To ensure that all children are cared for safely.
To provide information for parents on safety issues relating to children.
To educate staff on correct safety precautions and procedures.
Accident Prevention Procedures
Accidents are often due to a child’s age and developmental stage. Staff should
ensure equipment and activities are appropriate for the size and skills of the children
involved.
The following precautions are to be observed:
a) All household products and medications are to be kept in their original containers,
and stored in a locked cupboard/or inaccessible room/area and used appropriately.
b) Have the temperature of hot water systems set at less than 50 degrees
centigrade.
c) Hot liquids will not enter children’s direct play areas.
d) Our approved earth leakage circuit breaker will be tested regularly.
e) Teach children to respect all electrical appliances.
f)
Never leave plastic bags or pieces of balloons within reach of children.
g) All playground, indoor and outdoor equipment and surfaces need to be in
accordance with DOCS regulations and should be maintained in good condition.
h) The condition of the toys and playground equipment should be inspected
regularly.
i)
Display Emergency Exit (Evacuation) procedures and complete quarterly drills.
j)
Check centre fire extinguishers annually and instruct all staff on their use.
k) Poisonous plants should not be used at the centre and staff should teach children
not to put plants into their mouths.
147
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
SUPERVISION POLICY
Aim
To ensure the safety and well being of children enrolled at the centre, and to prevent
the occurrence of inappropriate behaviour.
To clarify staff and parent responsibilities regarding supervision of children when at
the centre.
Resource
Children’s Services regulations 2004 (CL 66)
Guidelines for supervision:
Staff need to be constantly aware of the location of all children.
a) Staff breaks will be rostered to allow for maximum supervision during the
most active periods of the day.
b) Staff should position themselves so that all outdoor areas are supervised.
c) If a staff member needs to leave the room or outdoor area they are to inform
another staff member of their whereabouts and when they will be back, before
leaving the room. Another staff member must temporarily take over their
supervision duties during this period
d) No primary contact staff is performing other duties while supervising children.
e) Recommended staff to child ratios will be maintained both indoors and
outdoors.
f) Parents are responsible for supervising their children when they are present
at the centre and for supervising siblings or any other children not enrolled at
the centre who may be accompanying them
Students/Volunteers
The Centre recognises the importance of contributing to the development of students
within the Early Childhood Field.
a) Accepting students for practicums is at the discretion of the Director.
b) The Director, or delegated staff member, will be responsible for supervising the
student’s work.
c) While at the centre, students are considered as a member of the child care team
but are not to be left alone with children at any time.
d) The director, or delegated staff member, must ensure that students are aware of,
and abide by, rules, regulations, policies and procedures of the centre.
e) Volunteers and visitors are to comply with the same conditions as students.
148
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
SAFETY AUDIT POLICY
Rational
There will be an annual Safety Audit and examination of staff injury records carried
out by the Director. Periodically the centre will obtain a formal Safety Audit.
Safety Audit
1. FIRE PREVENTION AND CONTROL
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
g)
h)
i)
Detection - smoke detectors - thermal detectors
Emergency lighting
Alarms - visual or audible
Clear access and passages
Door locks
Fire extinguishers
Fire blankets
Access to water hoses
Exit signs
2. HOUSEKEEPING (Storage, access and egress)
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
Clear passage ways
Storage
Waste disposal - garbage - contaminated waste and recycling
Cleaning
Premises, equipment and furnishings are in a safe clean and hygienic condition.
3. ELECTRICAL RETICULATION
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
Condition of outlets
Position of outlets
Covers for outlets
Electrical appliances - testing, condition and location
Circuit breakers
Testing
4. LIGHTING
a)
b)
c)
d)
Adequacy
Levels
Glare
Type – incandescent
5. GLASS PANELS
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
Location - doorways
Bathrooms
Openings
Type - strength
Visability
149
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
6. FLOOR COVERINGS
a) Condition
b) Type
c) Levels
7. VENTILATION
a) Mechanical
b) Windows
c) Overhead fans
d) Storage rooms
f) Cooling
8. STORAGE OF FLAMMABLES AND OTHER DANGEROUS GOODS
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
Inventory
Location - outside or inside
Accessible
Nature of storage - cabinets - cupboards
Lockable or child proof
9. STEPS, STAIRS AND RAMPS
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
Condition
Covering
Steepness
Evenness
Handrails
Non-slip surface
10. KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
g)
h)
i)
Accessibility to children
Bench and equipment heights
Energy switches - out of reach
Child proof cupboards
Storage of equipment
Non-slip floor
Fire blanket near stove
Fire extinguisher
Condition of fittings
11. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
Display emergency numbers in conspicuous place
Training of staff - fire drills
Use of extinguishers
Assembly points after evacuation
Disabled persons
12. ERGONOMICS
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
Work stations
Location and construction of storage shelves
Access to shelving
Manual handling
Mechanical Handling
150
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
13. PEST CONTROL
a) Licensed operators
b) Approved pesticides
14. FENCING AND SECURITY
a) Fencing adequate for safeguard of children
b) Gates to be childproof
c) Security fencing
15. PLAY EQUIPMENT AND TOYS
a) Must comply with Australian safety standards
b) Must be adequately/safely stored when not in use.
151
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
TOY CLEANING AND DISINFECTING PROCEDURE
During the course of the day staff are to observe and put aside mouthed toys. At the
end of the day the toy container will be washed with hot soapy water and disinfected
with ‘Assist’ cleaning agent.
A toy cleaning and disinfecting register will also be in place.
Toys are to be reguarly cleaned and disinfected either when required or by following
the roster system. This system is to ensure that all equipment is maintained
hygienically.
The toy cleaning register is found in the OHS Folder.
Sample Cleaning Register:
e.g
Toy / Equipment Name or Shelf Number
Inside construction
Outside construction
Fine Motor
Home Corner
Date Cleaned
21/1/08
21/1/08
21/1/08
21/1/08
Completed
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Note:
Toy / Equipment Name – Refer to equipment inventory – area of development
Toy / Equipment Name may also be referred to shelving number in store rooms.
152
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
TRANSITION TO SCHOOL AND OTHER ORGANISATIONS POLICY
Rationale
In Your Kids Our Kids programmes, each child’s growth and development is nurtured
individually, in small groups, with a number of carers and with close liaison with the
family. On school entry, they become part of a larger community with a much higher
ration of children to adults and less frequency in family contact. Transition to another
early childhood setting or school can cause anxiety especially those with special
needs.
Aim
To promote a positive start to school or to other early childhood service, for all young
children through a supportive transition programme.
Resources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004
(For this policy the regulations have been used as a general resource)
Guidelines
For Children:
To foster children’s coping abilities, the self esteem of all children is enhanced
through attainment of development skills, successful social interactions with peers
and adults, opportunities to make decisions and to contribute to the group.
Discussion is promoted and questions answered regarding school or other
organisation as relevant.
Visits to school or other organisations are encouraged.
For children with special rights, who are going to school, an Early Learning Support
Team is formed including the family, childcare staff, Department of education staff,
therapists and Special Educators.
For Staff:
Staff provide a programme, which ensures that children’s all round development is
age appropriate for school entry.
Staff consult with individual families regarding the school community or other
organisations.
153
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
If there are any difficulties with a child’s development, staff discuss with the family
and seek outside assistance where necessary.
Staff build relationships with local schools and other organisations.
Staff obtain information from the Department of Education regarding Transition to
school for children with special learning needs.
For Parents:
Local Principals are invited to chat about their school in order for parents to gain first
hand knowledge and have the opportunity to ask questions in a familiar and
supportive environment.
Parents are encouraged to talk with their child and answer questions regarding
school or other relevant organisations.
Parents are encouraged to visit their school or other organisation, to meet the
Principal and ask questions.
Parents are encouraged to take their child to any transition visits planned by the
school or organisation.
Parents are provided with information regarding school readiness.
Parents of children with special needs are supported in being part of the Early
Learning Support Team and empowered to make choices regarding school
placements. Meetings with relevant personnel are conducted as support sessions
and information exchange.
School Readiness
School and early childhood professionals have identified key factors in children’s
development and learning which are important for a smooth transition to school and
success with the formal learning program. These skills and attitudes are developed
across all areas of children’s development: social, emotional, cognitive and physical
and include the ability to:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Persist with activities and to problem solve when faced with difficulties
Share ideas and equipment
Make and enjoy friends
Solve conflicts by non-aggressive means
Show concern for and to help others
Be independent and show initiative in self help routines
Enjoy and participate in group experiences
Enjoy and engage in stories, poetry and songs
Initiate and participate in play
Cope with changes
Have confidence in themselves as learners
Specific Strategies to Support the Transition to School Process:
In about September, plan interviews with the parents of children who may be starting
school the next year. Let the parents talk about their feelings in relation to their child
starting school and listen carefully to their comments before talking about the child
154
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
from your perspective. Refer to individual child records as you explain to the parent
your understanding of the child’s development and learning.
Inform parents about transition to school programs that are available in the local
region. Post this information on the notice board and include in newsletters.
Make parents aware of schools in the area by liaising with schools regarding open
days, orientation and availability.
Inform parents about the program experiences you are providing to help the children
feel positive about starting school. For example: reading stories about starting
school and noting how the children respond to the story in their conversations,
play or artwork.
Ensure that staff are aware of the “Transition to School Procedure” for special needs
children.
Arrange with a local Primary School for a group “open day” visit for children and
parents.
In about October provide children with fortnightly “lunch box” lunches to help them
gain confidence in managing their own meals.
Arrange a “Transition to School” seminar for interested parents.
155
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
VISITOR POLICY
Rational
Aim
To ensure the safety of the staff, children and visitors at the centre in line with current
regulations
Resources
Workplace Health and Safety Action 1995
Child Protection (Prohibited Employment) Act 1998
Scope
This policy applies to all visitors, other than staff and Centre Management, and the
categories of person specified to be excluded from this policy.
The following classes of visitors are expressly excluded from the requirement to be
registered under this policy
•
•
•
Persons with appointments with, or seeking information from the centre
Director.
Attendees at any meetings and forums at the Centre facilities where there
would normally be staff in attendance as well.
Parents of carers dropping off or picking up children.
Policy
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Centre adopts and ‘open door’ policy, where family and
friends are always welcome to come and visit and participate in the program at any
time. We hold special days throughout the year for this, however visitors are
welcome at any time.
All staff make themselves aware of visitors to the Centre, and question and request
identification from any visitor with whom they are not familiar.
Parents should also be aware of who they are opening the front door to in the
mornings and evenings. If you do not recognize the person, please refrain from
opening the door to them.
All visitors to the Centre are asked to enter their details and reasons for their visit in
the Centre’s ‘Visitor Book’, located at the front desk. Visitors will then be issued with
a “Visitor” badge which is to be worn at all reasonable times and the badge is to be
returned to a staff member before departure from the centre each day.
There is a requirement that visitors to the centre on consecutive days will be required
to sign in and out each day.
156
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
WATER ACCESS / DRINKING PROCEDURE
Water: the best drink for everyone, our bodies consist of 50-60% water.
Water is essential for our bodies to function normally,our bodies lose water regularly
through sweat, urine and breathing.
Water is a tooth-friendly drink and does not cause tooth decay like some other
drinks can.
Children under 5 years should be encouraged to drink plain water on a daily
basis.
Here at Your Kids Our Kids all staff encourage children to drink water throughout the
day.
Children will see caregivers enjoy drinking water.
A jug of water will be accessible for the children at all times throughout the day both
indoors and outdoors. Staff will assist children with this procedure.
A container of clean cups will be accessible and staff will ensure used cups are
collected and removed in a separate container as required.
Children will also have the option to bring their own drink bottle with them which will
be kept in a container with ice bricks and accessible within the environment. Drinks
container will be transfered indoors and outdoors to ensure access at all times. All
individual drink bottles from home will be clearly labeled with their name. Staff will
monitor this process and assist children. Staff will re-fill childrens drink bottles with
cool refridgerated water when required.
157
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009
Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
WATER SAFE POLICY
Aim
To minimise hazards that may occur around water.
Resources
Children’s Services Regulations 2004 (Clause69).
Practice
•
No excursions are to be undertaken to the beach, pool, or any other area
where there maybe a potential for drowning.
•
Within the service there are no pools or body of water that maybe considered
a potential hazard.
•
Any water play is confined to small quantities in a raised waist level trough
and strictly supervise.
158
Created January 2008
Reviewed May 2009