PolicyBookletV2 Child Care

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures
CHILDCARE CENTRE
POLICIES AND 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
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
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
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
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
Childrens 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. Staffs 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 childrens 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 centres 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
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.
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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. drivers license) to prove that she/he is the person authorized to collect the child on the enrolment form. 3
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 persons 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 childs enrolment form. The centre keeps copies of any relevant court orders on the childs 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 childs 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) Childrens 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.
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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.
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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 childrens parents arrive and theirs do not.
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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
ACCIDENT PREVENTION PROCEDURES

Accidents are often due to a childs 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
BATHING POLICY
Aim
To ensure the health and safety of children who may require bathing.
Resource
Childrens 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.
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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 childs 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
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 childs 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 AECAs 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 childs 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) ii) iii) Provide developmentally appropriate activities to avoid frustration or boredom. Ensure enough and varied equipment is available. The environment should not be too noisy. Adults should speak quietly and reduce background noise.
11
iv)
Provide activities for small groups of children and opportunities for children to do things alone.
g) Encourage childrens 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
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
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.
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Created January 2008 Reviewed July 2009
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.
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CHILD ABUSE
Rational
Children have a right to care and protection; and it is the centres 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
Childrens 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 childs and other childrens 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.
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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
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.
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Created January 2008 Reviewed August 2009
CENTRE ENVIRONMENT POLICY
Aim
To ensure that the centre environment is safe and healthy at all times.
Resources
Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 Childrens 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 childrens 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.
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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 childrens 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 childrens reach. Where possible cords are contained in the wall cavity. All hot water taps in childrens 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.
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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.
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CHILD PROTECTION POLICY
Rational
Child abuse occurs in our society within all cultural, occupational and socio-economic groups. Childrens 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 centres 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 centres 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
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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.
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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 centres policies and procedures. Staff awareness of their responsibilities in relation to child protection Strategies for staff and child protection Staff in childrens 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 centers 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.
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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 childs 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 childs 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 A person who, in the course of his or her professional work or other paid employment delivers childrens 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 childrens services. What is to be notified? Maltreatment types for which it is mandatory to report Physical abuse Sexual abuse Emotional/psychological abuse Neglect Exposure to family violence
Reasonable grounds to suspect that a child is at risk of harm; and those grounds arise during the course of or from the persons work
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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 childs 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
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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
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.
Childrens issues Exposure to domestic violence has a profound and long-term effect on children. Recent research indicates that children between 04 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 dont 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
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: Childs Name: Childs DOB: Childs Address: Phone:
Siblings:
Natural Mother: Natural Father: Address: Phone: CALLERS DETAILS: Name: Position: Address: Phone: Fax: CALLERS 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
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.
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If you fear for the childs 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
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 Childrens Services

A situation may arise where someone involved in the provision of care for children in a childrens service has witnessed, or has suspicion of another person involved in the provision of care for children in a childrens services, of being the one that is abusing children. The same definition of abuse apply to those involved in childrens services as they do for childrens 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
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 employees 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.
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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 childs records.
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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 tell the child that you believe them and taking them seriously make it clear that whatever has happened or happens is not the childs 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) 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. pressure the child to show you injuries that are covered by clothing 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. 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 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
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All staff, volunteers and students are informed of and follow the centres policies and procedures on child protection The centre has a commitment to recruiting suitable staff/care providers for employment/registration in its childrens services. The recruitment process is to ascertain a preferred applicants 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 centres child protection procedures staff, volunteers and students are to sign that they have being inducted and are aware of the centres 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.
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Up-to-date developmental records on all children are to be kept. Relevant conversations with parents that may relate to a childs 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.
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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 200506. 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
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
Date
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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 childs 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
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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 childs 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 childs 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 childs 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 childs clothing, and place the child in a cool place away from other children. If the childs 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 childrens enrolment forms are asked to collect the child if their parents cannot be contacted. Source Staying Healthy In Childcare 4th Edition 40
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 childs 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.
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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 childs and familys individual decisions, beliefs, values, practices and traditions. The safety and independence of the child is paramount at all times.
Sources
Childrens 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
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 childs 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
Staff
Staff members are positive role models for children. All staff members are required to wear the centres uniform t-shirt, smart, casual black trousers and present clean for work each day. The centres 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.
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CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY
CONSIDERATIONS: Philosophy Legislation everyone associated with the Centre (staff, parents/guardians, and children) has the right to the protection of personal information. Laws relating to protection of privacy and confidentiality; duty of confidentiality arising from contract with parent; to whom and when information must be disclosed. need confidentiality re sensitive health issues, learning difficulties, behavior difficulties. 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 childs care. need personal records, details, appraisals treated as confidential; clear guidelines re what they should/shouldnt disclose about children and families and to whom; Freedom to raise personal issues that impact on workplace.
Children Parents
Staff
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
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 Childrens records Each childs 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 childs 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 childs records at their request.
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CURRICULUM POLICIES Rational
Aims
The program is planned to reflect the centres philosophy and goals and to foster each childs 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 familys 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 childs 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
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 childrens 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 childrens 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.
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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 centres 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 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. a) b) c) d)
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COMMUNICATION POLICY
Rational
The centre values the participation of families at all levels and at all times in their childrens 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. Childrens Records Developmental records are kept monitoring the childrens 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.
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Parent Library A collection of information of interest to parents is available for borrowing and fact sheets are provided regularly with the newsletter.
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COMMUNICATION PROCEDURE
Chart 1.1
Face to Face Meetings

Parent or Teacher Requests Meeting
Is An Interpreter Needed?
Yes
Book Interpreter
No
Book Meeting
Discuss Issues
Is Follow up required?
Yes
Organise Follow up
No Document Meeting & Any Outcomes
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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
Process as necessary
No Document date communication distributed
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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
File communication in childs record
Yes
Identify necessary Action
Meeting Required
Written Response Required
See Chart 1.1
See Chart 1.2
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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 childs formative years will provide the framework for ongoing oral health.
Aim
To establish practices that help maintain good dental health in children.
Resources
Childrens Services Regulations 2004 Australian Dental Association www.ada.org.au
Procedure
The centre supplements childrens 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.
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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 cant 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
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DIVERSITY POLICY Rational

Social Plan 2006-2008 Liverpool City Council Liverpools 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
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 Childrens Services 2002 Childrens 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.
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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.
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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 Childrens 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. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. The Careprovider is to monitor which television programs children view and ensure they are rated G for General Guidance viewing. The Careprovider must watch television programs with children and interact with them regarding the content of the program. Children under 3 years of age can watch up to 30 minutes of television over the day. 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. The Careprovider is to monitor which computer games children are playing and ensure they are either a General Rating - G. The Careprovider is to monitor use of the Internet and ensure all sites entered are appropriate for children and that they support childrens learning. If a parent provides a video to watch, the Careprovider must ensure it is appropriate. All videos must be rated G. Childrens music videos are acceptable viewing and should be used as an interactive movement session between the Careprovider and the children. The television will be turned off when not in use. 59
10.
The Careproviders 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. 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. The Careprovider must ensure that alternative experiences are provided during times when Electronic Media is in use.
11.
12.
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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 centres 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 Departments guidelines for exclusion of children from childrens 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 childs 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 childs 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
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 childs doctor in consultation with public health staff, the childs 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 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 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
Cold sores (herpes simplex)
Common cold Conjunctivitis Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
Not excluded Not excluded Not excluded. (Pregnant women should seek medical advice).
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Condition Diarrhoea (rotavirus campylobacter, cryptosporidium, shigella, salmonella etc; see also Giardia). Diphtheria
Erythema infectiosum (fifth disease) Giardia
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
Exclude family/household contacts until cleared by public health authority. Not excluded (Pregnant women should seek medical advice). 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 Not excluded Not excluded Not excluded
Glandular fever Haemophilus influenzae type b (HIB)
Excluded until treatment given and diarrhoea has ceased for 24 hours Not excluded Exclude until well
Hand, foot and mouth disease Hepatitis A Hepatitis B Hepatitis C Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV) Impetigo (school sores)
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
Not excluded
Influenza
Not excluded
Leprosy
Not excluded
Measles
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.
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Condition Meningitis, bacterial
Exclusion of cases Exclude until well
Meningococcal
Exclude until well
Mumps Poliomyelitis Ringworm (tinea), scabies, pediculosis (head lice), trachoma Roseola Rubella (German measles) Streptococcal infection and scarlet fever Tuberculosis
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
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
Not excluded Exclude for 4 days after the rash appears Exclude until 24 hours of antibiotics have been given 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
Typhoid and paratyphoid fever Vomiting (Norovirus, Rotavirus, Adenoviruses, Campylobacter, Salmonella, Shigella, Giardia and Cryptosporidium.) Whooping cough (pertussis)
Not excluded (Household and child care contacts may need screening) Not excluded
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.
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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
Childrens 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 Licensees 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
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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.
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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 parents emergency contact person or call the doctor shown on the childs 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.
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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.
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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

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.
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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
Childrens 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 childrens 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
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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
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 Directors responsibility to ensure: That childrens 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 childs 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.
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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 Centres Excursion Permission Form is located on the following page:
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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
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
Childrens Services Regulation 2004 Curriculum Framework for Childrens 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.
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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 childrens 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 childrens 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 childrens 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 childs development at any time. Talks on childrens 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
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 centres 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.
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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
Childrens 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 childs name on our waiting list, so that they can make an informed choice. 1. For children to be placed on the centres waiting list, their parents/custodians need to: Return a completed waiting list application form
2. There is no minimum age for when childrens 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 centres 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.
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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 childs 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 Childrens Services Regulation 2004. Flow charts This procedure is supported by two flowcharts, Chart 2.1 Enrollment Process and Chart 2.2 Day 1
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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
Childrens 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.
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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 Childrens 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 centres education program. The following guidelines are followed for cooking food: 82
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
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
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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 Childrens Services Regulations2004.
Resources
Childrens Services Regulation 2004 St Johns 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.
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FIRE EXTINGUISHERS Fire extinguishers will be located in the centre, staff room, main office and the kitchen.
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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 childs name clearly marked on the cheque. Cash is to be placed in an envelope labelled with the childs 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.
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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.
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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
Childrens 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 Childrens 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
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Created January 2008 Reviewed June 2009
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
Parent provides written statement about area of concern
No
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.
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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 childs or your own. Before finishing work.
Source: Staying Healthy in Child Care 4th Edition (p.4 & 5) .
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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 centres 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 childs 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
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 childrens 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 manufacturers recommendations and made up daily. d. Cover any cuts on your skin or childs skin with a water proof dressing. e. Wear disposable gloves when dealing with blood. 93
f. Wipe vinyl covered change mats with a disinfectant solution after each nappy change. Disinfectant solution to be made to the manufacturers 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 manufacturers 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 childs 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
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 manufacturers 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.
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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 Centres 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.
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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
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. Childrens 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 childs 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 parents responsibility to inform the centre of any subsequent vaccinations given to their child to keep the centres immunisation records updated. Notification
98
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 directors responsibility to; a) Request parents to provide documented evidence of the childs immunisation status. b) Maintain and regularly update the Immunisation Register of the immunisation status of each child. c) The NSW Health Departments 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
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 Childrens Services 2002. DoCS. Reaching potentials through Anti-Bias and Multiculturalism Derman-Sparks, L. 1992 Childrens 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 childrens 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
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 childs 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 childrens 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 childrens 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.
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INDUCTION POLICY - STAFF
Aim
To facilitate the smooth transition of new staff while minimising anxiety in children due to abrupt changes in staff.
Resources
Childrens 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 centres 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 centres decision making and evaluations processes by attending staff meetings or adding their viewpoints in writing.
102
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
Childrens 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 childrens 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 childrens bathroom closely supervises childrens 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 childs 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
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 childrens 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 staffs eye, open wound, or any mucous tissue, this is reported to the Director, and the relevant accident report must be completed.
104
INTERACTIONS WITH CHILDREN POLICY
Aim
To ensure all staff are aware of guidelines specified in Childrens Services Regulations 2004
Resource
Childrens 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 childs 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 childrens families are respected. Support is given to childrens learning experiences. Support and guidance is freely given to support emotional development. Ensure that a child is not required to sleep or rest against childs wishes or needs. Ensure that children are treated without bias regardless of ability, gender, religion, culture, family structure or economic statics. 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
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 childs 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
MEDICATION POLICY
Aim
To establish clear procedures for the administration of medication at the centre, to ensure compliance with the NSW Childrens Services Regulations and to ensure childrens well being.
Resources
Childrens 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 childrens 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 childs name, a recent prescription date and doctors instructions regarding its administration. Non-prescription medication is not administered at the Centre. 107
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 centres 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 parents or doctors instructions regarding administration of medication. The directors 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
Parents must provide a health management plan designed by the childs 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 childs 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
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
COOK Safe Food Handling Qualification
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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 childs buttocks and your other arm supporting the childs 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
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 childs nappy and place it in a hands-free plastic-lined garbage bin located under the changing area. g) Clean the childs 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 childs 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
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
Childrens Services Regulation 2004 Health and Safety in Childrens 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
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
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 Centres 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 Childrens 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 childs 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
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. childrens birthday parties.
For further information about this policy please feel free to talk to any staff member.
116
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 centres 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 childrens nutritional needs through posters, parent library information, etc i) Communicate with parents/guardians about their childs food intake, i.e. prepare and display weekly menus, report daily on childs food intake, discuss concerns, etc. Contain costs to budget without compromising nutrition.
j)
k) Encourage staff to present themselves as role models, maintaining good personal nutrition.
117
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 childrens sizes and skills. n) Offer utensils, but dont 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
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 childrens 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
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 Centres 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 childrens 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 childrens 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
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
Childrens 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, childrens interests are discussed with parents and an information exchange is established.
121
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 centres 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 childrens 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 Childrens 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 childrens rest environments are free from cigarette or tobacco smoke. As per this centres 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 centres Caring For Sick Children Procedure. 122
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 childs body on their mattress, ensuring no childs head becomes covered by bed linen or comfort aids and where necessary the staff member will move bed linen; each childs 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 childs 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
RETENTION OF RECORDS POLICY
Aim
To ensure all children, family and staff information is maintained securely and confidentially, for the period stipulated by the Childrens Services Regulations. To ensure records are readily available to authorised persons as necessary
Resources
Childrens Services Regulations 2004 (CL 96)
Retention of Childrens Records

For currently enrolled children, all their information except for their development records is kept in the filing cabinet. Childrens developmental records are kept on the centre premises. Childrens 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 childrens 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
Copies of the self-study report and accompanying evidence given to the National Childcare Accreditation Council (NCAC) for the centres 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
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 childs 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 members 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 parents information and what each child ate for lunch is recorded in the sign-in books.
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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.
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SOILED CLOTHING PROCEDURE CLEANING AND STORING

Aim To minimise carers, staffs and childrens 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.
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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 persons 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.
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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 centres Staff Policy and advised that the centre will 130
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.
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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 employees 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 days notice under the Child Care Workers 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.
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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 centres 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
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 Childrens 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.
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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 centres 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 childrens programme. Plan, implement, maintain and regularly evaluate procedures for keeping accurate records (developmental, health, etc.) on each child. Implement and maintain a referral system for children who have special needs. Complete reports on children at risk, attend relevant case conferences, appear in court when necessary, and supervise all aspects of these childrens integration into the centre. Oversee the planning and organisation of excursions out of, and performances into the centre, by contact staff. Attend to general inquiries of parents and the community. Show visitors, new and prospective parents, over the centre. Interview parents; complete all enrolment procedures for new children. Orientate, in conjunction with staff, new parents and children to the centre. Be available to discuss with parents any concerns, problems, queries, etc. they may have. Encourage parent participation and involvement through: 135
b) Children Families and the community i) ii) iii)
iv) v) vi) vii) viii) ix) x)
xi) xii) xiii)
involvement in the daily programme (e.g. excursions/visits) displaying of notices, posters, etc; displaying of the minutes of meetings; newsletter, circulars, brochures.
Supply regularly updated information through:
Keep lists of referral services for parents. 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. Childrens Hospital Services. Resource centres/people. Special Needs Advisors. Other Early Childhood centres, agencies, personnel.
c) Students and volunteers i) ii) To organise and supervise students and volunteers on placement. 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: ii) iii) iv) Accounts Fees Fee Relief
Petty Cash Prepare a yearly budget for the centre. Monitor spending in all areas of the budget throughout the year. Establish, and supervise all necessary records: Accurate and well organised waiting lists. Daily staff and child attendance roll books. Child records (annual and sick leave, workers comp. etc.). Child Care Benefit forms. Child Care Benefit Quarterly Reports. Medication Books. Permission for Excursion forms. Notice of Injury/Illness forms.
v)
The preparation of submissions, as required. 136

vi) vii) viii) f)
Monitor fee collection, bad debtors, banking. Answer telephone inquiries. Handle all matters relating to the administration of the centre.
Maintenance and Equipment i) ii) Ensure that the centre conforms to health, safety and licensing regulations. Maintain an adequate level of equipment and supplies (cleaning, educational, food, office, medical, etc.) and purchase new equipment in line with the budget allocation. Supervise the maintenance of the equipment, regularly checking for breakages, etc. Remain aware of the general condition of the centre, supervise its upkeep, suggesting improvements and maintaining an adequate level of safety and hygiene. Supervise the cleaning of the centre and liaise regularly with cleaning staff. Evaluate own work as a director. Keep abreast of research and new developments in the field of early childhood services and pass these on to staff and parents. Maintain an active system of parent/staff/community and centre relationships. Gather relevant information, and use in appropriate ways to ensure the quality of care offered by the centre.
iii) iv)
v)
g) General i) ii) iii) iv)
Attend and participate in local events, conferences and lectures.
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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) ii) iii) Develop and implement the centres programme, both social and educational, in consultation with the Director. Oversee the social and educational programme of the centre, including regular assessment and updating of childrens programme. Observations and individual planning and programme implementation for the children and providing up to date information for the Director relating to the childs development. Plan, implement, maintain and regularly evaluate procedures for keeping accurate records (developmental, health, etc.) on each child. Implement and maintain a referral system for children who have special needs. Attend to general inquiries of the Director. Be available to discuss with the Director any concerns, problems, queries, etc. Encourage parent participation and involvement through: xi) xii) xiii) xiv) involvement in the daily programme (e.g. excursions/visits) displaying of notices, posters, etc; displaying of the minutes of meetings; newsletter, circulars, brochures. Supply regularly updated information through:
b) Children, Families and the Director i) ii) iii) ix) x)
Work with the 2-6 year old section managing, supervising and interacting with the children. Changing Nappies Food Preparation and Handling 138
c) Maintenance and Equipment i) ii) iii) iv) Ensure that the centre conforms to health, safety and licensing regulations. Maintain an adequate level of equipment and supplies (cleaning, educational, food, office, medical, etc.) Supervise the maintenance of the equipment, regularly checking for breakages, etc. Remain aware of the general condition of the centre, supervise its upkeep, suggesting improvements and maintaining an adequate level of safety and hygiene. Cleaning of the centre. Filling. Evaluate own work as a child Care Worker. Keep abreast of research and new developments in the field of early childhood services and pass these on to the Director. Gather relevant information, and use in appropriate ways to ensure the quality of care offered by the centre.
v) vi) i) ii) iii)
d) General
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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) j) l) To be willing to attend in-service courses etc., where appropriate. To respond positively to parents and children. Other duties as requested by the director from time to time.
k) To attend centre functions which may be held outside of working hours. m) To be responsible for the washing and drying of all laundry.
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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.
Childrens Services Regulations 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
Childrens 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 childrens services: A model for implementing an Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) management system in your childrens 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.
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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.
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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 Centres 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
Childrens 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.
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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 childs 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 centres 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
Childrens 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
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 legionnaires 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.
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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 o o Legionnaire hat Bucket hat with a deep crown and brim size of at lease 5cm (adults 6cm) 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 childs 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 Councils guidelines can be found on their website www.cancercouncil.com.au/sunsmart
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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 childs 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 childrens 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) j) Display Emergency Exit (Evacuation) procedures and complete quarterly drills. 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.
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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
Childrens 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 students 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.
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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
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
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.
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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: 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
e.g
Note: Toy / Equipment Name Refer to equipment inventory area of development Toy / Equipment Name may also be referred to shelving number in store rooms.
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TRANSITION TO SCHOOL AND OTHER ORGANISATIONS POLICY Rationale

In Your Kids Our Kids programmes, each childs 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
Childrens Services Regulations 2004 (For this policy the regulations have been used as a general resource)
Guidelines
For Children: To foster childrens 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 childrens all round development is age appropriate for school entry. Staff consult with individual families regarding the school community or other organisations.
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If there are any difficulties with a childs 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 childrens 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 childrens 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
from your perspective. Refer to individual child records as you explain to the parent your understanding of the childs 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.
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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 Centres 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.
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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.
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WATER SAFE POLICY
Aim
To minimise hazards that may occur around water.
Resources
Childrens 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.
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Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

ANTI BIAS POLICY

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

ACCESS AND ATTENDANCE POLICY

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

ARRIVING AND LEAVING PROCEDURE

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

ACCIDENT PREVENTION PROCEDURES

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

BOTTLE WARMING / PREPARING PROCEDURE

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

BEHAVIOUR GUIDANCE POLICY

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

BROKEN TOY POLICY/PROCEDURE

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

How policy will be implemented (Specific Policies & Procedures):

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

COMPLAINTS POLICY Rational

Procedure How to Make a Complaint

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

COMPUTER USAGE (Children) POLICY

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

CENTRE ENVIRONMENT POLICY

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

PREVENTING BURNS/ELECTRIC SHOCKS

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

CHILD HEALTH POLICY

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

CHILD PROTECTION POLICY

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Informing families about our policies and procedures on child protection

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Notification of those involved in Childrens Services

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Your Kids Our Kids Childcare Policies & Procedures

Making a Notification to NSW Authorities