16: Safety first

“I’m starting a new toddler group and want to make sure we’ve got the safety aspects covered right from the start: what must we do?”

I’m hoping to be able to provide some more formal guidance on this in a future Tiddlywinks resource. In the meantime, we don't have one definitive document – though increasingly, Scripture Union resources carry guidelines about health and safety and child protection issues. There is general information in the introductory section of each Tiddlywinks Big Book, in Scripture Union holiday club resources, and in Working with under sixes by Val Mullally.

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You might also be interested in this set of health and safety guidelines, sent in by a carer and toddler group leader who has been working through the same issues as you! It’s written for a particular group so isn’t the ultimate word on the subject and will not be exactly what you need but you may find it helpful in devising your own policy.

a) It is the intention of the xxx Toddler Group to provide a safe and happy environment for children, carers, families and helpers.

b) The Group falls under the ‘umbrella’ of xxx church.

Mrs xxx (name and address supplied) has overall responsibility for the Group.

Ms xxx and Mrs xxx (names and addresses supplied) are co-leaders.

Mrs xxx nad Mr xxx of xxx church are valued helpers.

c) There are at least two qualified First Aiders on the Team.

Care must be taken over the following health & safety hazards:-

1. All adults must sign in for themselves and on behalf of their children as they enter in case of fire.

2. Electric sockets should be covered when not in use.

3. The outside doors are always shut when not in use (especially the fire doors).

4. Children should be discouraged from entering the kitchen unnecessarily and from being there when the cooker and kettles are in use.

5. Fresh water must be provided for washing hands and for water play.

6. Any tactile play material, ie play dough, sand etc. must be clean.

7. In event of accident there is a First Aid Box available in the kitchen or from a Group Leader.

8. Any spillage should be reported immediately. Any wet floors should become restricted areas until dry. (Mop & bucket in the kitchen.)

9. There is a No Smoking Policy.

10. Hot drinks must be consumed AWAY from all children and babies.

11. All children must sit at a table or with their carer for drinks and biscuits.

12. There will be a half-termly safety check of toys.

13. Fire extinguishers are accessible and regularly checked.

14. Fire exits are left clear.

15. In the event of fire the Group will evacuate into the car park LEAVING ALL PUSHCHAIRS AND PRAMS BEHIND - a designated leader will be responsible for collecting the signing in sheet.

16. The door between the entrance area and the hall will remain open throughout the session.

17. Carers are responsible for the supervision of their children, especially when leaving the premises.

18. There will be a safety gate between the hall and entrance to the kitchen.

19. All carpets will be cleaned before the start of each group session.

20. There is an area at the back of the hall reserved for pushchairs and prams. These must not block any exit doors.

21. There will be a safe, clean, restricted area for babies to play.

22. No children are allowed to play on the raised stage area.

a) The general hygiene of each child should be encouraged, especially the washing of hands after using the toilet.

b) Soiled nappies etc. should be placed in a plastic bag before putting in the waste bin provided. The waste bin should be emptied after each session.

c) All toilets will be checked and made clean before the start of each session.

d) Carers should have access to a clean, comfortable area for feeding/changing babies.

e) We respectfully ask adults to:-

• pick up any uneaten biscuits to safeguard children with allergies;
• to return cups to the serving area;
• bring to the attention of leaders any broken or damaged toys or equipment
• refrain from bringing any baby or child to the group who is ill

1. Special needs and disabilities - every effort will be made to accommodate individuals or families with special needs. We respectfully ask carers to bring this to the attention of the leadership who will act with discretion and confidentiality.

2. Quiet Area – a small area is provided for the privacy of children and carers with special needs or when intimate care is being provided. Please respect this.