policies and procedures handbook - lilchamps

Policies and Procedures

handbook

2019

Li’L Champs Early Learning and Montessori Centre

431, Great South Road, Papatoetoe, Auckland 2025

New version June 2019

Indigo Educare Limited is the name of the incorporated company which operates Li’l Champs Early

Childhood Learning and Montessori Centre as a trading name. So, these two names are used interchanging

but meaning same operations.

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INDEX

Policy Page No.

Reviewed Date

Next Review

HEALTH & SAFETY – CLEANING POLICY 4 07.07.2018

HEALTH & SAFETY – DAILY OSH CHECKS 13

HEALTH & SAFETY – FOOD AND DRINK POLICY

15 15.10.2018 10.0419

HEALTH & SAFETY – HAZARD MANAGEMENT POLICY

18

HEALTH & SAFETY – HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY

19 15.10.2018 10.04.19

HEALTH & SAFETY – NAPPY CHANGING POLICY

21 15.10.2018

HEALTH & SAFETY – NAPPY CHANGING PROCEDURE

22 15.10.18

HEALTH & SAFETY – NUTRITION POLICY 24 15.10.2018

HEALTH & SAFETY – PREVENTING INFECTIOUS ILLNESS POLICY

25 15.10.2018 22.01.19

HEALTH & SAFETY – SLEEPING POLICY 37 15.10.2018

HEALTH & SAFETY – SMOKE FREE POLICY 39 30.09.2018

HEALTH & SAFETY – SPECIAL NEEDS POLICY

40

HEALTH & SAFETY – STAFF ILLNESS POLICY 42 15.10.2018

HEALTH & SAFETY – STERILIZING PROCEDURE

43 15.10.2018

HEALTH & SAFETY – SUN SAFE POLICY 44 30.09.2018

HEALTH & SAFETY – VERMIN AND PEST POLICY

45 15.10.2018

ACTIVE MOVEMENT POLICY 46 24.11.18 22.01.19

BOTTLE CHART 47

BREAST FEEDING POLICY 48 04.05.2018 10.04.19

MEDICATION POLICY 50 13.03.2018

IMMUNISATION POLICY 52

ISOLATION PROCEDURE FOR SICK CHILDREN

53

CELEBRATIONS POLICY 54 04.05.2018

CENTRE LOCKUP PROCEDURE 55

CHILD PROTECTION POLICY 57

COMMUNICATION AND CONSULTATION 68 30.09.2018

COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE 63

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CONDUCT REQUIREMENT POLICY 64

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES POLICY Civil Defence Emergency Procedure Earthquake Procedure Earthquake Drills Fire Procedure Volcanic Eruption Procedure

67 69 69 70 70 71

EXCURSION POLICY 73 22.01.19

PARENT FEES POLICY 83

PERSONNEL POLICY 85

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT POLICY 86 30.09.2018

FIRST AID POLICY 87 08.09.2018

FUNDRAISING POLICY 88 02.12.2018

MEDIA POLICY 90 03.11.2018

MEDICATION POLICY 91

NON-CONTACT POLICY 93 17.12.2018

PETS POLICY 94 15.10.2018 PHYSICAL ACTIVITY POLICY 95

POSITIVE GUIDANCE POLICY 98 30.09.2018

PRIVACY POLICY 102 21.03.2018

PROGRAMME ASSESSMENT AND EVALUATION POLICY

103

RELIEVERS POLICY 105 20.03.19

PROVISIONS FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

106

SAND AREA POLICY 108 04.05.2018 20.03.19

SELF REVIEW 109 10.04.19

SETTLING IN 116 10.05.2018

STAFF RATIO POLICY 120 05.06.2018

STATEMENTS / EXPLAINATIONS 123 27.05.2018

SUPERVISION OF CHILDREN 124 17.03.2018

TEETHING POLICY 126 04.05.2018

TOILETING POLICY 127

TRANSITION POLICY 128 08.10.2018 22.01.19

TRANSPORTING CHILDREN POLICY 132

Treaty of Waitangi 140 04.05.2018 20.03.19

UNIFORM POLICY 142 04.05.2018 10.04.19

VISITORS POLICY 145 22.06.2018

BABY‐SITTING POLICY 146

BEHAVIOUR GUIDANCE POLICY 147

BITING POLICY 149

CARING FOR THE ENVIRONMENT POLICY 151

HEALTH EXCLUSION POLICY 152

ARE YOU A VISITOR 156 22.06.2018

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CLEANING POLICY

Rationale:

Li’l Champs aims to provide a hygienic and safe environment for all children, families and

employees. Employees for Li’l Champs will endeavour to implement hygienic practices to

minimise the spread of germs in the centre.

Procedures:

Employees of Li’l Champs will complete daily, weekly, monthly and termly cleaning tasks to

keep the centre maintained and to a high level of cleanliness.

Laundry

• All laundry is done on the premises.

• A safe and secure place is allocated for the washing machine and the dryer.

• All dirty linen is stored in a closed basket in the washing area

• All the bed linen is washed separately from the kitchen and art linen.

• Tea towels and face towels will be washed separately.

• Soiled clothing will be washed separately.

Cleaning products

All cleaning products and systems are provided by CPC and are stored in the laundry

cupboard.

Green cloths are to be used for the kitchen area

Blue cloths are to be used for general cleaning

Red cloths are to be used for toilets and floor cleaning

These are all to be laundry separately at the end of each week

Cleaning schedules

All staff are to follow the attached cleaning schedules (bathroom, playroom, kitchen,

laundry) and sign off once completed

Reviewed: 8.05.2019

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Infants Playroom Cleaning Schedule

Months:_ 2019

Tasks Cleaning

Frequency

Cleaning

Product

Cleaning

Method

Weeks of months

(please tick)

Signature

Washing machine

able toys

Weekly

Laundry

powder

Machine wash

1 2 3 4

5

__________

__________

__________

______

Toys / blocks

Weekly

Clinique

Spray and

rinse with

water

1 2 3 4 5

__________

__________

__________

______

Furniture shelves

and units

Weekly

Clinique

Spray & wipe

1 2 3 4 5

__________

__________

__________

______

Dress up clothes

and bedding

Weekly

Laundry

powder

Machine wash

1 2 3 4 5

__________

__________

__________

__________

_____

Cots

Weekly

Clinique

Spray & wipe

1 2 3 4 5

__________

__________

__________

__________

_____

Play dough

equipment

Weekly

Clinique

Spray & rinse

with water

1 2 3 4 5

__________

__________

__________

__________

__

Jigsaws and

puzzles

Weekly

Clinique

Spray & wipe

1 2 3 4 5

__________

__________

__________

______

Art cupboard and

sink area

Monthly

Clinique Spray & wipe __________

__________

__________

______

Tables and chairs Monthly

Clinique Spray & wipe __________

__________

__________

______

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Toddlers Playroom Cleaning Schedule

Months: 2019

Tasks Cleaning

Frequency

Cleaning

Product

Cleaning

Method

Weeks of months

(please tick)

Signature

Washing machine

able toys

Weekly

Laundry powder

Machine

wash

1 2 3 4 5

_________

_________

______

Toys / blocks

Weekly

Clinique

Spray and

rinse with

water

1 2 3 4 5

_________

_________

_________

_________

Furniture shelves

and units

Weekly

Clinique

Spray &

wipe

1 2 3 4 5

_________

_________

_________

_____

Dress up clothes

and bedding

Weekly

Laundry powder

Machine

wash

1 2 3 4 5

_________

_________

_________

_________

_________

Cots

Weekly

Clinique

Spray &

wipe

1 2 3 4 5

_________

_________

_________

_________

_________

Play dough

equipment

Weekly

Clinique

Spray &

rinse with

water

1 2 3 4 5

_________

_________

_________

_________

______

Jigsaws and

puzzles

Weekly

Clinique

Spray &

wipe

1 2 3 4 5

_________

_________

_________

_________

Art cupboard and

sink area

Monthly

Clinique Spray &

wipe

J

_________

_________

_________

____


Clinique Spray &

wipe

_________

_________

_________

____

Revise Nature table

and displays

Monthly

_________

_________

_________

_____

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Preschool Playroom Cleaning Schedule

Months: 2019

Tasks Cleaning

Frequency

Cleaning

Product

Cleaning

Method

Weeks of months

(please tick)

Signature

Washing machine

able toys

Weekly

Laundry

powder

Machine wash

1 2 3 4 5

_________

_________

_________

_________

Toys / blocks

Weekly

Clinique

Spray and

rinse with

water

1 2 3 4 5

_________

_________

_________

_____

Furniture shelves

and units

Weekly

Clinique

Spray & wipe

1 2 3 4 5

_________

_________

_________

_____

Dress up clothes

and bedding

Weekly

Laundry

powder

Machine wash

1 2 3 4 5

_________

_________

_________

_________

____

Cots

Weekly

Clinique

Spray & wipe

1 2 3 4 5

_________

_________

_________

_________

____

Play dough

equipment

Weekly

Clinique

Spray & rinse

with water

1 2 3 4 5

_________

_________

_________

_________

______

Jigsaws and

puzzles

Weekly

Clinique

Spray & wipe

1 2 3 4 5

_________

_________

_________

_________

Art cupboard and

sink area

Monthly

Clinique Spray & wipe _________

_________

_________

_________


Clinique Spray & wipe _________

_________

_________

_________

Revise Nature table

and displays

Monthly

_________

_________

_________

_________

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Nappy Room Cleaning Schedule

Month: 2019

Tasks Cleaning

Frequency

Cleaning

Product

Cleaning

Method

Weeks of months

(Please tick)

Signature

with week

ending

date

Benches

Daily

Bleach

solution

Spray &

Wipe

1 2 3 4 5 ________

________

________

________

____

Change Mat

Daily

Bleach

solution

Spray &

Wipe

1 2 3 4 5

________

________

________

________

____

Hand basins

Daily

Clinique

Spray &

Wipe

1 2 3 4 5

________

________

________

________

____

Nappy bin and

lid

Daily

Bleach

solution

Spray &

Wipe

1 2 3 4 5

________

________

________

________

____

Floors

Daily

Clinique

Mop floor 1 2 3 4 5

________

________

________

________

____

Body wash

facility

Weekly

Bowl patrol

Disinfect 1 2 3 4 5

________

________

________

________

________

___

Walls

Weekly

Clinique

Spray &

Wipe

1 2 3 4 5

________

________

________

________

________

________

_

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Children’s Toilet Cleaning Schedule

Month : 2019

Tasks Cleaning

Frequency

Cleaning

Product

Cleaning

Method

Time Week

1

Week

2

Week

3

Week

4

Week

5

Hand

basins &

Walls

Daily

Mr.

Universal

Spray &

Wipe

9.30

11.30

1.30

3.30

5.30

Toilets

Daily

Bowl Patrol

Toilet

Cleaner

9.30

11.30

1.30

3.30

5.30

Floors

Daily

Mr.

Universal

Mop

Floor

9.30

11.30

1.30

3.30

5.30

Walls

Daily

Mr.

Universal

Spray &

Wipe

9.30

11.30

1.30

3.30

5.30

Teacher

name and

sign

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Week beginning ___/____/____

DAILY WORK SAFE NZ CHECK

Week beginning: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Fire exits / gates are clear

Unlock all fire gates

Broken equipment removed

No pooling of water in playground or

car park

Sandpit checked for faeces and

raked

Equipment is stored to meet

earthquake safety standards

Hazard register has been updated in

the last 3 months

Fences and gates secure

No Vandalism or dangerous objects

All chemicals stored safely

Swings, ropes and hardware are safe

Check for poisonous plants

Climbing equipment safe (minimum

1.5m from edge of safe fall)

Fire extinguishers / hose reel clear or

obstruction & free to use

Body wash facility is clear from

obstructions

All electrical power sockets are

covered

Any maintenance needed

Lockup procedure is checked and

signed

Signature

Teacher’s name singing off

07/06/2019

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Nappy Chart Date:_____ Room: Babies and Toddlers

Name Time Code Staff Time Code Staff Time Code Staff

W=WET, S=SOILED, D= DRY, T=TOILET, CA=CREAM APPLIED, C = CHECKED

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FOOD AND DRINK POLICY

Rationale:

We want to ensure that children receive nutritional food at appropriate times to meet their needs. A

record will be kept of all food served. We are also committed to ensuring a high level of hygiene is

maintained while preparing, serving and storing food.

Procedures:

The cook shall follow hygienic kitchen practices, and the centre uses a dishwasher and

fridge / freezer for the kitchen. We provide a freezer for frozen food and good storage for

all other food. All food stored in the pantry or fridge shall be covered or sealed in

containers.

The fridge is 4 degrees or less and checked and signed off by the cook every week as per

department of health regulations.

Any vegetables not required to be kept in the fridge, will be stored in the pantry in a cool

dry place. All food to be thawed will be covered in a dish at the bottom of the fridge.

There will be separate chopping boards used for vegetables and raw meat.

Kitchen cleaning procedures and this policy are to be displayed on the wall in the kitchen.

The cook will be required to attend a recognised food hygiene course.

The menu will be displayed for parents to view and there will be a rotation of dishes

according to the seasons and needs of children and families. The cook will document what

food was served for the day for parents to view along with any recipe changes. These

documents are kept for 3 months as per licensing criteria 2008.

Li’l Champs will provide fresh water for children to drink by cup, at morning tea, lunch and

afternoon tea, and children will have the opportunity to access drinking water throughout

the day.

Morning tea, lunch and afternoon teach are provided for children and is spread

throughout the day. A late snack is also provided for those children attending after 5pm.

A serving will be put aside for children who are sleeping at meal times.

For safety reasons, all children must be seated while they eat or sitting on an adult.

Children are to be fully supervised while eating or drinking. No bottles or drinks will be

permitted in cots or beds for safety reasons. On fine or warm days children may have a

picnic outside but will remain seated while eating.

The centre provides and promotes a healthy diet for children. We recognise the need for

a calm, social environment for healthy eating habits, therefore staff will not rush meal

times and children will be encouraged to try all foods provided.

Staff will promote safe food handling practices when serving children.

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Infants under the age of 6 months and other children unable to drink independently are

held semi-upright when being fed. Any infant milk / food given to a child under the age of

12 months is approved by the child’s parent.

Allergies:

A record of children’s allergies is to be kept on file and in the kitchen area. Management are to inform

all staff and relievers of children’s allergies to keep children safe from any harmful reactions. Parents

are required to fill in an allergy action form to inform staff of the procedures if their child has a

reaction. This allergy action form is to be completed at the time of enrolments and is to be displayed

in the kitchen and a copy kept on the child’s file and displayed in the room the child is in.

Babies meals:

Baby’s solids are provided daily including mashed vegetables which will be cooked fresh. Parents are

required to bring in named babies’ bottles which need to be made up by the parents. Staff will record

what your child has eaten throughout the day. Only the formula that is requested by the parent is

given to the infant. Before any new food is offered to an infant, staff are required to gain permission

from the parent before doing so.

Review date: 5.06.2019

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ALLERGY ACTION PLAN

Child’s name: …………………………………………………...

Child’s date of birth: …………………………………….

Date: …………………………………

Mother’s name: ……………………………………………….

Mother contact number: ………………………………

Father’s name: ……………………………………………….

Father’s contact number: …………………………….

Emergency contact name: ……………………………

Emergency contact number: ……………………….

Allergy condition:

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………..

Symptoms:

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….....

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

……………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Action required:

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………..

Medication and dosage:

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

……………………………………………………………………………

Please note that this information needs to be updated every 3 months.

Photo of child

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HAZARD MANAGEMENT POLICY

Rationale:

To ensure hazards around and in the centre, environment are identified and minimized.

Purpose:

To make sure that all hazards are identified, and staff are made aware of them.

To minimize risk of harm to children and adults in the centre environment.

• Opening staff will follow the attached Daily OSH Check Procedure and document any new hazards identified.

• Closing staff will follow the attached Centre Lockup Procedure and document any new hazards identified.

• The Hazard Register is displayed in the front entrance near the visitor sign-in book.

• The Hazard Register will be reviewed every three months at a staff meeting.

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HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY

Rational:

Li’l Champs is committed to the health and safety of its employees, children, parents, whānau, students, visitors and contractors. This will be achieved by: - Provision and maintenance of a healthy and safe work environment - Ensuring that safety is paramount on all occasions when children are taken outside of the centre environment – (see excursion policy and risk analysis form) - Providing appropriate training, instruction and induction in the correct use of all equipment, materials and safe work practices - Ensuring that staff are consulted on, and given the opportunity to participate in health and safety management - Having effective procedures for the hiring and monitoring of contractors - Having in place plans and procedures for all foreseeable emergencies that may arise in the workplace. - Facilitating rehabilitation of employees through:

- Providing, wherever possible, opportunities for a return to meaningful work

- Ensuring early intervention, assessment and treatment programmes for work-related injuries

- Communicating effectively with case managers and treatment providers for those employees in rehabilitation

- Meeting our obligations under the Health and Safety in Employments Act 1992, the Health and Safety in Employment Regulations 1995 and any relevant standards, codes of practices and/or guidelines - Ensuring that staff have all relevant procedures, information and documentation to meet the above requirements Health and Safety is everyone’s responsibility. Roles and responsibilities: Centre Manager / Teaching Staff - Daily OSH checks will be completed each morning before opening the centre. - If any hazards are identified within the OSH checks they are to be dealt with in a timely manner and recorded on the hazard list by the from entrance. - Ensure that all families, whanau and visitors to any centre are made aware of their own and Li’l Champs health and safety obligations while they are visiting, about the specific hazards of their centre. - Conduct health and safety induction training for all new team members, relieving teachers, and students - Report accurately all accidents and hazardous incidents, conduct and report on follow-up investigations

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- Ensure that safety is paramount on all occasions when children are taken outside of the centre environment – see Excursion policy - always Maintain safe equipment and a safe environment for children. The Early Childhood Regulations 2008 and the Supervised Early Childhood Facilities – Playground Equipment and Surfacing Handbook SNZ: HB5828 2:2006 will always be complied with . - Ensure that relevant health and safety information is clearly displayed at their centre - Ensure that every centre has a hazard list is reviewed and amended as necessary, at a minimum annually, when an accident / incident / near miss occurs, or when the environment is altered -Ensure that Health and Safety procedures are written to reflect individual centre environments - Report any unsafe work conditions or equipment to the owner, these can be identified on the static staff meeting agenda. - All practicable steps are taken to eliminate, isolate, or minimise hazards for the health and safety of both children and adults. Health and Safety Representative - The Health and Safety Representative provides the communication and support to centres on health and safety issues - The purpose of the Representative is to:

- Take a lead in promoting and encouraging staff to comply with health and safety

- Raise health and safety concerns affecting centres

- Discuss appropriate options available to the centre Manager for resolution of these concerns

- Present strategies to the owner of Li’l Champs

- Communicate back to centres the strategies to be adopted

- Assess accidents / incident reports and make recommendations as required

- Make recommendations to the management team on training requirements for health and safety

- Review health and safety policies, systems and procedures and make recommendations for change

Reference: Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 Early Childhood Regulations 2008 Supervised Early Childhood Facilities – Playground Equipment Surfacing handbook SNZ HB 5828.2:2006 Relevant Li’l Champs policies and procedures

Date reviewed: 15.10.2018

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NAPPY CHANGING POLICY

Rationale:

We believe that children’s health and wellbeing is of the utmost importance. The children

experience an environment where their health is promoted. A positive attitude towards

eating, sleeping and toileting is always portrayed.

Procedures:

• Nappies will be checked and changed every two hours.

• Toileting children will be reminded and encouraged to go to the toilet every two hours or

as necessary depending on the individual child, until they are confident and independent

to do this on their own.

• Nappies must be provided by the parents.

• The teacher will ask the child if they are ready for a nappy change and teachers will allow

time for the child to respond.

• All children are treated with dignity and respect throughout the process.

• If the child is not ready the teacher will give a time frame or say, “I’m just going to change

……… and then it will be your turn”.

• The teacher is ready and equipped with all requirements before the child is on the table.

• The teacher is always to remain with the child while on the changing table.

• The teacher will talk to the child throughout the interaction of changing letting them

know what is happening and what they are doing.

• Wet wipes will be used to clean the children.

• Nappy rash cream and any other special requirements must be provided by the family.

• Nappy changing mats will be sprayed with bleach solution and wiped after each change.

• Toilets will be disinfected and cleaned at regular intervals.

• Paper towels and tissues will be refilled at regular intervals.

• Toilet training children will need plenty of spare clothes provided from home.

• While a child is toilet training, we strongly suggest the use of underpants or pull ups.

• Gloves are to be worn when taking the nappy off and they are to go into the nappy bin

once the child is cleaned.

• The nappy bin will be emptied at least once a day.


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NAPPY CHANGING PROCEDURE

1. Please ensure that ALL steps of this procedure are followed in full.

2. Before beginning, explain to the child what is about to happen, in clear and simple terms.

3. If the child appears unwilling or uncomfortable with either you or the procedure, you must seek support from another staff member.

4. Put on disposable latex gloves.

5. For safety: You must always keep one hand on the child.

6. Remove child's clothing as needed.

7. Remove the soiled nappy and securely dispose of it in the nappy bin.

8. Wipe child thoroughly with wet wipes.

9. Remove gloves and securely dispose of them in the nappy bin.

10. If any powder or cream is required: Put on a fresh glove before applying, then remove glove and securely dispose of it in the nappy bin.

11. Put a fresh nappy on the child and replace child's clothing if necessary.

12. Assist the child to wash their hands.

13. Spray the nappy table with Bleach Solution and wipe down with Handy Towels.

14. Record all nappy changes immediately on the Nappy Changing Register.

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Nappy Chart Date:_____ Room: Babies and Toddlers

Name Time Code Staff Time Code Staff Time Code Staff

W=WET, S=SOILED, D= DRY, T=TOILET, CA=CREAM APPLIED, C = CHECKED

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NUTRITION POLICY

Rationale:

To promote children’s health, awareness and wellbeing.

Aim:

To encourage our children and their families to develop healthy eating habits.

To encourage parents about healthy lunchbox contents.

Procedures:

1. To have the menu displayed which is accessed by all 2. To have the nutrition information available for parents & whanau 3. Staff will always role model healthy eating and promote nutrition. 4. Staff will supervise children at every meal time to encourage healthy eating habits. 5. Staff will talk about food and what is good for them and what foods should be eaten

sometimes. 6. The centre will provide lunch boxes for those children that require it (oldest 10) and

when the child leaves for school they will be given in the starting school pack lunch box ideas for parents.

7. Incorporated into our programme the children will experience cooking sessions as when required.

8. Parents are made aware of policy surrounding celebration of birthdays through newsletters, being told and by having the policy folder available to them.

9. Ensure that the staff and children use good food hygiene practices such as hand washing before eating, preparing food and going to the toilet.


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PREVENTING INFECTIOUS ILLNESS POLICY

RATIONALE Preventing Infectious Illness There are many forms of illness, from mild to very serious, that may be found in an early childhood service. Some will be infectious – spread from person to person or from animal to person. (Also see Animal welfare and food safety procedures) Other forms of illness do not spread and will only affect the child or adult who has the illness. Spreading infectious illness Most infectious illnesses spread when people are in close contact, such as in an early childhood service. Children and staff spend several hours in close contact and children are only beginning to master the self-care practices that will help to protect them and others from infectious illness. The most common illnesses in young children are upper respiratory tract infections – the coughs, colds & runny noses all children suffer from each year. Your centre should have a clear policy and agreement with parents and caregivers as to whether children who have symptoms can attend. (see exclusion due to illness policy)

Four main ways people spread illness Four main ways people pick up illness

Air Coughing and sneezing sprays tiny drops of infected fluid from the nose and throat out into the air. The drops float around in the air or settle on an object or surface, eg, table, bench, toys.

Breathe it in Breathe in drops of infected fluid that float around in the air.

Body waste and fluids Bacteria, viruses and other organisms that cause illness can be found in: • faeces and urine • saliva from the mouth • mucus from the nose or throat • the fluid in sores and blisters caused by an illness.

Touch then eat Put hands, food and objects in the mouth after touching body waste of fluid from animals and infected people. Tiny amounts of waste and fluid are often left on: • toilet floors, seats and toilet flush buttons • taps and door handles • nappy changing areas • tissues and handkerchiefs. Hands may also touch drops of infected fluid that are coughed or sneezed onto objects, toys or surfaces such as benches and tables.

Skin Bacteria and viruses that cause some types of illness are found on the skin in sores and infected wounds, cuts or grazes. Parasites that

Touch or use Skin with small cuts or abrasions touches an infected sore or wound and the infection is spread.

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live on or in the body (e.g. scabies and lice) may be found on the skin or in the hair.

Head touches, or is close to, the head of a person with head lice. Clothes, bed linen, combs or other items used by a person who has scabies or head lice are shared with others, e.g. when dressing up.

Blood Mix blood Some viruses and bacteria that cause illness are found in blood.

Mix blood An open wound, cut or graze is splashed or touched by blood from an infected person. Pregnant women who suffer from certain viral or bacterial illnesses may pass the infection on to their unborn baby.

Procedures for early childhood services It is very difficult to completely remove the risk of infection and illness from the centre. However, you should provide a safe environment so all efforts must be made to reduce the risk of illness spreading. Although self-care practices such as hand washing are a part of the early childhood curriculum, these can only be achieved by older children who may not always be thorough and effective. This means the responsibility for reducing the spread of illness lies with staff, and parents. Early childhood educators can protect children’s health and prevent the spread of illness through policies, safe practices or routines, and by providing programmes that help children to develop the skills and understandings of self-care. Some of these strategies involve simple things that are easy to overlook. Others require careful thought and consultation to develop a policy that is successful and widely accepted. Strategies to prevent the spread of illness include: Exclusion: Ask children and staff who are ill to stay away from the service until there is no risk of them spreading an illness. In some cases, children and staff who are likely to develop the illness may also be asked to stay away, to protect them from the illness and prevent its spread. Immunisation: Ensure that children and staff have been offered the vaccines available to protect them from serious illness. Early childhood services are required to keep a record of the immunisations for each child born from 1 January 1995 and advised to keep a record of older children’s immunisations. Personal hygiene: Staff and children should use thorough hand washing [ideally 20 seconds hand washing and 20 seconds drying] and hygienic nappy changing practices (see nappy changing procedure). This prevents transmission of infection when children put hands or objects in their mouth. Cleaning: It is imperative to set up a thorough cleaning and disinfection programme for all surfaces, equipment, bedding, clothing and toys. Monitor the programme at regular intervals to make sure it is done properly. (see cleaning schedules) The following sections give information and advice to help you check existing policies and procedures and practices and to make improvements or develop new systems if they are necessary.

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Preventing illness: a quick check • When children or staff become ill, send them home as soon as possible. Recommend that they stay at home until well again. (exclusion due to illness policy) • If a child cannot go home immediately, keep them away from others, always stay with them and give them plenty of clear fluids. Keep them cool if there is a fever and warm if they are cold. (exclusion due to illness policy) • Assess the child’s illness. If a parent or caregiver is not available and the child seems to be becoming more ill, you may need to arrange for the child to be seen by a doctor. • If you know what is causing the illness, check the exclusion policy and make sure the child or staff member stays away for the recommended time. • Wash children and wipe noses with disposable wipes or cloths that are used only once. • Make sure that any sores and weeping cuts, and scratches are always covered in all environments and encourage children not to scratch or pick at them. If these wounds cannot be covered the child or staff member should stay at home until they have healed. • If other children develop the illness take a careful look at the hygiene and cleaning routines used at the centre:

- make sure everyone is washing their hands thoroughly before eating and after using the toilet

- check the nappy changing practice and make sure that all staff follow it carefully

- look at the cleaning programme, including the cleaning of toys, bedding and equipment, and improve the programme if necessary. Make sure that staff wear gloves and use diluted bleach to clean up spills or blood or other body fluids.

• Check that cups and eating utensils are washed thoroughly in hot water. – You may need to check the temperature of your dishwasher – is it being used on a full cycle - not economy. Are the dishes being dried with a tea towel? This is one of the quickest ways of spreading infections and should not be used. • Keep the immunisation register up to date. (see immunisation procedure Appendix C) • Contact your Public Health service for more information and advice. References: Early Childhood Regs 2008, 45, 46, 57, licensing criteria PF15, 16,

20, 21, PF27 HS26. Nga Kupu Oranga Healthy Messages Exclusion due to Illness Animal Welfare procedure Food Hygiene Cleaning schedules Immunisation procedure

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APPENDIX A: HYGIENE

Introduction

Good hygiene practices within the centre are vital to minimise the risk of illness being spread. Thorough hand washing and safe nappy changing procedures are two effective ways to reduce the risk of spreading illness It is important to ensure that: • Regular cleaning practices occur within the centre – see cleaning schedules • Contact the parent of a child as soon as possible, if the child is observed to be sick and ask them to collect their child. In the meantime, the child should be temporarily isolated and supervised. See: Exclusion due to illness procedure • Toilets and hand basins are checked on a regular basis throughout the day [minimum as per bathroom cleaning schedule but more frequently if you have an outbreak of an infectious illness] to ensure they are in a satisfactory condition and be sprayed with an appropriate cleaning [sanitizer cleaner] product. • It is recommended that play dough is made fresh each day to ensure that it is safe, and bacteria can’t grow on it - however during an outbreak of infectious disease then it must be changed daily. Hand washing The teachers need to be sure that all children and staff wash their hands thoroughly: [ideally 20 seconds washing and 20 seconds drying] Where possible teachers should supervise children washing their hands and utilise the opportunity to teach children how to wash and dry their hands. Water Temperature o The water temperature of any plumbing fitting to which children have access must be at a delivery temperature not greater that 40ᵒC o Water that is used in the kitchen for cleaning kitchen utensils should be delivered at not less than 55ᵒC o All hot water cylinders are set to not less than 60ᵒC to prevent the growth of Legionella Bacteria If children have access to the Art sink, then the water temperature must not be more than 40ᵒC Disinfecting There are a range of disinfectants about, many of which are not effective. Household bleach is one of the cheapest and most effective but can be sold in different strengths. Centres need to use a disinfectant with at least 2% hypochlorite. Different strengths of bleach are also needed in different situations, depending on the amount of risk. High-risk areas are where there has been a spill of blood, vomit or other bodily fluid e.g. toilets.

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Bleach Strengths: High risk areas

Strength of bleach Disinfectant recipe

% PPM Parts of bleach Parts of water

2 20,000 1 3

3 30,000 1 5

4 40,000 1 7

5 50,000 1 9

General areas

Strength of bleach Disinfectant recipe

% PPM Parts of bleach Parts of water

2 20,000 1 40

3 30,000 1 60

4 40,000 1 80

5 50,000 1 10

ppm = parts per million The strength of the bleach will be on the label. This is the undiluted strength before it is mixed with water. Dishwashers The dishwasher requirement in Health and safety guidelines for Early Childhood Education Centres 2009 are based on known pathogen kill-rates. However, given the expense of commercial dishwashers, domestic dishwashers can be used provided that: • Dishes are rinsed thoroughly before washing in the dishwasher • Dishes are washed in the dishwasher using the hottest and longest washing, rinsing and drying cycles – wash temperature should be minimum of 60ᵒC – rinse cycle that lasts at least 10sec or longer with a minimum of 77ᵒC • The maximum recommended dose of soap or detergent is used • Tea towels or cloths are not used to dry or polish the dishes.

If you have an outbreak of a virus in your centre, you can purchase viroclean from Hygiene House that is specially formulated to kill ongoing pathogen. This is not a product for everyday use [your current cleaners are adequate for this purpose] it is only to be used if you have an uncontrollable outbreak of a disease.

Ministry of health information sheet “Emerging Health and Safety Issues”

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PERSONAL CARETAKING TASKS PROCEDURE Staff undertaking personal caretaking tasks must ensure children’s wellbeing. Staff will be respectful and nurturing of the individual child’s physical and emotional wellbeing. o Only centre teaching staff will undertake personal caretaking tasks for children. Casual relievers not well known to children and students [unless with the express permission of the Centre Manager] are not permitted to undertake these tasks. o Staff will promptly attend to any child who’s clothing gets wet or soiled [i.e., mud or paint etc] while playing. This does not mean that a child playing with water on a warm day needs to be changed immediately when they get wet. Rather, staff should be aware of the child’s level of comfort and change them as required or when the child is no longer involved in the activity. o Staff will attend promptly to any child who vomits or has a toileting accident. Staff will be discrete and will protect the child’s dignity and privacy. Actions or comments that may embarrass or belittle the child are unacceptable. o When toileting or washing a child and or changing wet or soiled clothing, staff will take all due care to ensure the child is clean and comfortable. Children should be supported to toilet / wash and dress themselves as far as they are able. o Staff will wear gloves and a disposable apron when attending to a child soiled by faeces or vomit and will use the designated body wash when cleaning the child, ensuring that they follow the procedure for washing sick and soiled children. Staff will record times that children have been washed noting the time and reason using the personal caretaking record below. o Staff will take due care to protect themselves from allegations of inappropriate behaviour by ensuring that they tell another staff member they are washing or changing a child’s clothing and ensuring that they can be seen from another area of the centre. Under no circumstances are staff to undertake personal tasks in closed or remote areas of the centre [including the sleep room]. Also see Nappy Changing Procedure

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HYGIENE PRACTICES FOR WASHING SICK AND SOILED CHILDREN

1. Put on disposable gloves and a disposable apron

2. Ensure that you have all necessary cleaning (disposable cloth) and drying materials on hand.

3. Remove clothing (and nappy if applicable)

4. Place child in body wash facility and wash with soap and a disposable cloth – ensuring the child’s

right to dignity and privacy are respected (be mindful of how you undertake this procedure and

ensure that you use correct manual handling procedures when lifting the child if steps are not

available).

5. Be mindful of any water that may spill on the floor and take the necessary precautions to keep

yourself and the child safe.

6. Remove gloves and dispose.

7. Dry child and re-dress with clean clothes.

8. Put on new gloves prior to handling soiled clothing / nappy.

9. Rinse child’s clothes if needed to remove excess body waste and place in a plastic bag to be sent

home. Consider the best place to store this until collection.

10. Ensure that the body wash facility is sprayed down with Hypochlorite sanitizer that rinsed off to

remove all traces of infections from germs.

11. Ensure that all drying or other soiled lined in laundered separately in a hot wash to ensure that

any germs are killed.

12. Place gloves wash cloth/s and apron (an any other disposable materials used) in a plastic bag for

safe disposal.

13. If any body fluids / solids have spilt on the floor or furniture that ensure that you follow the ‘First

Aid Precautions for Body fluid / Hepatitis B / HIV to clean this up.

14. Record any instances of washing children on the personal caretaking record.

Review date – 5.06.2019

Please note that you may need to enact the ‘Exclusion Due to illness’ procedure depending on the

reason for washing the child.

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APPENDIX B: EXCLUSION DUE TO ILLNESS

Rational:

To ensure that any child who is infectious or becomes ill at the Centre is cared for appropriately

and the Health Regulations 1996, second schedule, which are grounds for exclusion are

implemented by the centre.

The Centre does not have the facilities or staff to accommodate, manage and care for children

who have infections.

Infectious diseases, particularly notifiable ones, are a threat to the health of the community, and

place children and adults in centre at risk. No person (child or adult) in the centre should be

placed at risk or contracting a notifiable or infectious disease.

Procedures:

1. Each centre will have available a copy of the Second Schedule to the Health Regulations

1996 (infectious and Notifiable Diseases). Staff will be familiar with this Schedule and keep it

readily available for reference.

2. All persons who are sick MUST stay away from the centre when they have:

2.1 A diagnosed notifiable infectious illness: (refer to Appendix 2 of Nga Kupu Oranga).

Children must be excluded as per medical advice or Public Health Service recommendations –

see the Ministry of Health Infectious Disease Chart for exclusion times.

2.2 Diarrhoea, vomiting, fever and/or undiagnosed skin rash: All people who are displaying

these symptoms should never remain at the childcare centre (except for the time it takes parents

to collect the child from the centre).

Please note that diarrhoea or loose stools present a particular risk, as even if the cause is not an

infectious disease, it makes it difficult to maintain normal hygiene. Even micro-organisms

(germs) normally present in the gut can cause health problems if consumed (e.g. passed into the

mouth by contaminated hands or objects).

While an ill child is waiting for parents to collect them from the centre, they will be made

comfortable and kept isolated from other children and staff, and a staff member will always

remain with them, monitoring the child’s condition and recording any changes. In general, if

children experience vomiting and/or Diarrhoea they should not attend the centre until 48 hours

after all symptoms have stopped.

3. In the case of a serious illness, the Centre Manager will, without delay, ensure that all

reasonable steps are taken to get medical aid and to notify the appropriate parent/Whanau,

guardian or care giver.

4. Children should stay away from the centre when:

4.1 The illness prevents the child from participating comfortably in

programme activities.

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4.2 The illness results in a greater care needed than the centre can

reasonably provide without compromising the health and safety of the

other children.

4.3 The child has any of the following conditions: fever, persistent crying,

difficulty breathing or other signs of possible severe illness, head lice

(until treated).

4.4 If the child has a rash with fever or behaviour change (until a doctor has

determined that the illness is not a communicable disease).

5. Staff need to ensure that:

5.1 There is an area available and facilities suitable for the temporary isolation

and care of at least one sick child.

5.2 Recurring health and welfare problems shall be recorded by the teachers

and drawn to the attention of parents/whanau/caregivers.

5.3 A copy of NGA KUPU ORANGA HEALTHY MESSAGES issued by The Ministry

of Health should be kept readily available to Staff / Parents / Whanau /

Caregivers in all centre. (this can be downloaded from the Ministry of

Health website www.moh.govt.nz)

5.4 If in doubt contact the Public Health Service at your District Health Board

for advice (Auckland 09 623 4600)

Please note:

Staff employed or engaged in the centre and other adults must stay away from the centre if their

physical or mental health is a risk or danger to children.

WHEN MUST THEY STAY AWAY?

In general children should stay away from an early childhood service when they are ill and causing

concern or

- have no interest in activities or play

- Have little energy, want or need to sleep or rest for long periods

- Cry easily, are irritable or in pain

- Constantly want to be held and comforted

- Have a fever

- Any child with diarrhoea or vomiting must stay away until 48 hours after symptoms cease and

they are well.

“Must” is used where regulations require you to exclude a child or staff member for the sated time.

“Advised” is used where medical experts recommend that you exclude a child or staff member for

the stated time. Illnesses which are required to be included on your immunisation register have

been marked with a (IR).

Illness Exclusion

*Campylobacteria Must until well and until 48 hours after last episode of diarrhoea or vomiting

Chickenpox Must until at least 7 days after the rash appears or until all spots have dried

http://www.moh.govt.nz/

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Conjunctivitis Must until symptom free

*Cryptosporidium / Giardia Must until well and until 48 hours after last episode of diarrhoea or vomiting

Cytomegalovirus No need for child to stay away. Pregnant adults are advised to see a doctor

Fifth disease (Slapped Cheek, Parvovirus B 19)

Exclude if unwell Pregnant women are advised to see a doctor

Gastroenteritis (Viral) Must until well and until 48 hrs after last episode of vomiting or diarrhoea

Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease Advised until blisters are dry and until child is well – Please not that it is very rare but children who contract HFMD can suffer from serious inflammation of the brain or heart

Head Lice Advised to stay away until treated. All live lice must be removed before returning

*Hepatitis A Must until 7 days after jaundice appears

*Hepatitis B Must until well or as advised by GP

Herpes Simplex Virus Advised to stay away while lesions are present

Haemophilis influenza type b Must stay away for 24 hours after starting antibiotic and until child is well

HIV / AIDS Parents / caregiver needs to be advised, if there is a risk of infectious illness from others

Impetigo Advised for 24 after treatment begins. Sores should be covered until healed

*Measles Exclude for at least 4 days from onset of rash. Also exclude unimmunised children on advice from medical officer of health

*Meningococcal disease Must exclude until at least 2 days of antibiotic treatment is completed

*Mumps Must exclude until 9 days after swelling develops or until child is well – whichever is sooner

*Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Exclude until 21 days from onset of coughing or after 5 days antibiotics

Potavirus Must until 48 hours after the last episode of diarrhoea / vomiting

Ringworm Restrict contact activities until lesions clear

*Rubella Must until 7 days after the rash has appeared

*Salmonella Must exclude until well with no further diarrhoea

Scabies Advised until treatment finished

*Shigellosis Must exclude until they have had 2 negative stool specimens taken 48 hours apart

Shingles Advised until 5 days after the rash appears

Streptococcal sore throat Must from first 24 hours of treatment

*tuberculosis – Active TB Public Health will advise on exclusion is advised

Note Conditions marked with an asterisk (*) are notifiable disease.

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Please note that some of these conditions can be serious and in very rare cases result in death.

Where possible ensure your parents have access to information from the local Public Health

Authority about the disease, treatments and any other risks or complications if you have an

outbreak at your centre.

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PERSONAL CARETAKING RECORD

Date Childs Name

Washed Time Reason Staff signature to confirm followed Hygiene practices procedure

Disposable apron worn Disposable gloves worn Sign:








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APPENDIX C: IMMUNISATION

Introduction

The recording of the immunisation status of children [also recommended for teaching staff] attending your centre is a Ministry of Health requirement. This procedure outlines the duties of the teaching team to keep immunisation records. (Please note that children and staff are not required to have their immunisation’s up to date, however in the event of an outbreak of a serious communicable illness these children may be excluded from the centre under the direction of the Medical Officer of Heath if they are not fully immunised – However, as staff are in regular contact with children who at times may have a communicable illness it is recommended that all teaching staff ensure that their vaccinations are up to date. PROCEDURE – IMMUNISATION CERTIFICATES

Teaching Team Responsibilities • To keep the prescribed Ministry of Health immunisation register • To inform each parent/caregiver that the teachers need to sight their child’s immunisation certificate when their child starts at the centre. If the child has not been immunised this must also be known and recorded • All information regarding immunisation is to be kept accurate and confidential It is not the responsibility of the Centre Manager to ‘chase’ the parent / caregiver for the immunisation certificate, where it has already been requested a reasonable number of times (a minimum of once).


Ask for the immunisation

certificate on admission

Parent/caregiver does not

have the immunisation

certificate

Parent / caregiver has

the immunisation

certificate

Record on the immunisation

register on info care that the

parent/caregiver did not have

the immunisation certificate

Record information from the

immunisation certificate onto

the immunisation register on

info care

Tell parent / caregiver that:

- An immunisation certificate is needed, whether or not the child is immunised.

- The family doctor or public health nurse can sign an immunisation certificate

- Change information on the info care register if/when the parent/caregiver

presents the immunisation certificate.

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SLEEPING POLICY

Rational

At Li’l champs we recognize that each child is unique and comes to us with their own sleeping

routine. Therefore, teachers will endeavour to follow individual children’s routine in a relaxed

and familiar environment.

Guidelines

• All children are provided with their own individual sleeping space and bed linen. Their

bed linen is washed weekly and stored in their own sleeping bag.

• Sleep spaces are positive and peaceful to ensure undisturbed rest.

• Sleeping mattresses need to be placed at least one adult spacing apart if possible.

• There is a teacher present in the sleep space whenever possible, however the use of a

baby monitor will be in use, so staff are able to continue with normal duties.

• Staff will do 10 minutes checks on all under 2’s sleeping and will be recorded on the

sleep chart.

• Staff will do 10 minutes checks on all over 2’s sleeping and will be recorded on the

sleep chart.

• Teachers are guided by the children’s routine up to 14 months of age in a relaxed and

unhurried manner.

• Parents are encouraged to bring a comforter or cuddies from home for sleep time.

• In accordance with the 2008 regulations, children will not be put to bed with a bottle

or food.

• For cultural sensitivity children are encouraged not to stand on pillows and children

sleeping near each other are positioned head to head rather than head to feet. They are also

not allowed to walk on others bed.

• If more than one child over time is to use the same furniture or items, then they must

be securely covered with or made of a non-porous material that:

- Protects them from becoming soiled

- Allows for easy cleaning (or disposable)

- Does not present a suffocation hazard to children

• All children’s sleeping and waking times are to be recorded.

• Children will not have access to food or liquid while in the sleep room.

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• It is recommended that the temperature is between 16°C and 20°C when heating the

room. Temperature times need to be recorded at the top of the sleep chart

Wrapping / Swaddling babies or the use of safety sleeps

Please note that at no time should it be common practice to wrap or swaddle babies while

they are sleeping, this could in some cases be constituted as restraining children, which is

prohibited by the ECE regulations. There may be times however when parents request that a

centre undertakes this practice or use a safety sleep for their baby while they are very young

and transitioning into the centre and it is a practice that the parents undertake at home. This

must only be undertaken with full consultation with the parents and written permission given.


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SMOKE FREE POLICY

All centres are always required to be smoke free both inside and outside [including centre car parks]. Smoking will not be permitted on the premises at any time, 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Smoking on centre excursions is not permitted at any time. Smoke free signs must be displayed in the centre and on the entrance gates. All work vehicles will always be smoke free. Failure to adhere to this policy will result in disciplinary action. Any person entering the premises smoking will be requested to extinguish the cigarette or be asked to leave. Please display a copy of this policy where visitors to the centre can read it. Reference: Smoke-free Environments Amendment Act 2003


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SPECIAL NEEDS POLICY

RATIONALE

All children at Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs, including those with special needs, are catered for in a caring, supportive, understanding environment. Families of such children are given all the support and help possible by the Centre staff.

TE WHĀRIKI

Well‐being – Goal 1. Children experience an environment where their health is promoted.

Belonging – Goal 3. Children and their families experience an environment where they feel comfortable with the routines, customs and regular events.

PROCEDURES

Provide for children with special needs in close consultation with parents/whānau. Make information relating to special needs available to parents when appropriate.

Ensure that children with special needs have opportunities to interact with and join in activities with other children.

always Maintain confidentiality about children with special needs.

Ensure that additional support resources, including agency funding, support persons, specialist teachers, advisory services, or modifications to the physical environment are sought for children with special needs, where applicable, and that as far as it is practicable these be made available.

Staff attend meetings with specialist services and parents/whānau to formulate an l.E.P. (Individual Educational Programme) and to monitor the child's progress.

Dated observations and examples of children's work will be collated and held on file. Professional reports and evaluations will also be kept in the child's records.

The final decision in all matters relating to special needs rests with the Centre Manager.

Factors for Enrolment

Adequate staff‐to‐child ratio for a need

Availability, if necessary, of specialists and specialist training for staff

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Support from parents/whānau

Support from teachers and management

A manageable ratio of children with special needs

Suitability of the programme to the needs of the child

Availability of care‐giver or assistant

Note: Please also see CENTRE DESCRIPTION: CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

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STAFF ILLNESS POLICY

Rationale:

Li’l Champs promotes health and hygiene in the centre to prevent the spread of infection and

illnesses. Communication of illnesses is paramount being that we are employed to work with

children and confidentiality is important. Management will support staff illnesses where

necessary if the illness is of danger to children and families in the centre.

Procedure:

At Management’s discretion, staff may be excluded from the centre if they have contracted a

dangerous and infectious illness.

Depending on the kind of illness Management reserves the right to request a doctor’s

clearance if a staff member would like to return to work or they have had more than two days

off.

If a staff member is sick and unable to work on a particular day, it is paramount that they

following procedure are adequate staffing within the centre.

1. All staff members will be given an updated phone list when employment commences

with relevant numbers.

2. It is each staff member’s responsibility to ensure that they put these numbers into

their mobile phone and to keep list in a safe place.

3. It is each staff member’s responsibility to ensure their contact numbers are up to date.

4. Staff need to notify Centre Manager at least 2 hours before shift, but if possible, the

night before.

5. The priority is to notify the Centre Manager and if you are unable to reach Centre

Manager then you must contact the owner.

6. Texting and emails are not acceptable for notifying of absence.

7. The Centre Manager will confirm that your shift is covered either by change of staff or

reliever.

Review date: 9th May 2019

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STERILIZING PROCEDURE

Rationale:

To ensure hygiene practices are always followed

Aim:

To promote the health, safety and well-being of the children at all times.

Procedures:

1. Rinse remaining milk from bottle 2. Clean bottle and lid, and teats using dishwashing liquid and bottle brush in the sink

3. Rinse bottles in warm water 4. Place water in the sterilizer according to instructions 5. Place all bottles face down into sterilizer, place lids and teats within the sterilizer

6. Put lid on sterilizer and place in microwave for 5 minutes – according to instructions

7. Once completed place all bottles with lids in to the fridge is a clean container. DO NOT leave them in the sterilizer or on the bench

8. We use this same process for children’s dummy’s as well and then place in their named container in the fridge.


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SUN SAFE POLICY

Rationale:

Children and adults at Li’l Champs need protection against the damaging effects of the sun. At Li’l Champs we are aware of the Cancer Society message - “slip, slop, slap and wrap”. Procedure:

• Parents are encouraged to bring named sun hats for their child. If they are unable Li’l Champs will provide one.

• Sun block is applied whenever children are exposed to the sun. Sun block will be provided by the centre or parents are welcome to bring in one for their child.

• During summer parents are encouraged to apply sun block their child before coming to the centre.

• Teacher’s role model the use of sun hats and sun block.

• Children are required to keep their t-shirts on and always wear a hat, even during water play.

• Fresh drinking water is always provided for the children.


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VERMIN AND PEST POLICY

Rational:

Li’l Champs recognises the importance of keeping a centre free of vermin and pests for the

health and safety of children, staff and families.

Li’l Champs staff and Management will have clear guidelines to follow to ensure the centre is

free from pests and vermin, and should such an infestation occur, clear guidelines to follow to

deal with the situation immediately to achieve an effective outcome for all involved.

Prevention:

• The premises will always be kept clear of rubbish

• Rubbish will be placed in the appropriate bins

• All food scraps will be disposed in the rubbish

• Waste care bins with lids will be provided for both recycling and general rubbish.

• Staff will ensure cleaning schedules are upheld and any sign of (pest droppings or

infestations) they will notify the centre manager.

Control:

• The manager will assess the extent of the pest or vermin problem.

• Lay trays or bait if possible, away from reach of children.

• If needed notify a specialist to assist with the problem.

• The problem will then be monitored and re assessed if necessary.

• The type of control carried out depends on the type of pest or vermin.


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ACTIVE MOVEMENT POLICY

Rationale:

To increase children’s control over their bodies and help them appreciate that exercise is an

important part of growth and development.

Aim:

To encourage active movement in the children and teachers, including both fine and gross

motor experiences.

Policy:

1. Staff will provide daily activities that offer varying degrees of physical challenges such as

balancing, hammering, challenge courses, construction activities, hopping, turning, pouring

etc.

2. Children’s range of physical skills is extended through access to such equipment as balls,

bats, balance boards and climbing equipment.

Books and stories about the body will be available for children to look at.

3. Group times will involve musical activities that encourage moving in space, moving to

rhythm and being near others.

4. Children will have the opportunity to visit and use the neighbouring park for physical

activities whenever possible.


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BOTTLE CHART

DATE:

Name Time Amount mls

Sterilised Sign

Time Amount mls

Sterilised sign

Time Amount mls

Sterilised Sign

Time Amount mls

Sterilised sign

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BREAST FEEDING POLICY

Rationale:

To promote children’s health and well being

Aim:

To encourage mothers of our children that breast feeding is preferred and that they can

continue this experience while their child is in our care.

Policy:

1. Upon enrolment mothers will be asked if their child is breast fed and if so if they would like to continue doing this.

2. The parent can express milk into a bottle, and it will be given to the child at the required time.

3. Or the parent may choose to come into the centre and breast feed their child. 4. A quite space will be given for the parent either in the sleep room or staff room to

engage in breast feeding.


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Date Child’s Full Name

Medication required

Amount Specific Time to be given

Parent’s signature

Medicine given by and time given

Staff signature

Staff verification signature

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MEDICATION POLICY

MEDICATION REQUEST FROM FOR CATEGORY (3)

CHRONIC MEDICATIONS ONLY

I request the staff of Li’l Champs to administer the following medication (s) to my

child …………………………………………………………………………………. (child’s full name)

Name of medicine ……………………………………………………………………………………………

To start from …………. /………. /20……. until ………. /…………/20…………….

Expiry date of medication …….../.……. /…………

Specify specific symptoms …………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

……………………

Directions for administering the medication ………………………………………………………..…

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

……………………

Medication will be stored …………………………………………………………………………………

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

I ……………………………………… authorise the permanent staff of this centre to administer

medication to …………………………………………. (child’s name) as directed above. I have

been made aware of where my child’s medication is being stored.

Signed: Parent/Guardian ……………………………………………………………………………...

(please note that the maximum time this agreement can be used is 3 months and

then a new form must be completed


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Date Time Record Medication

and Dosage Given

Signature of person

administering medication

Verification from

another staff

member

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IMMUNISATION POLICY

RATIONALE

It is a government regulation requirement that Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs holds accurate immunisation records of all children on our roll.

TE WHĀRIKI


PROCEDURES

The Ministry of Health requires all licensed early childhood Centres to sight and record every child’s immunisation history.

An immunisation register will be kept, so that in the case of an outbreak, any child who is not immunised must be removed from the Centre until the incubation period of the disease is passed and no further cases are reported.

The immunisation register will be updated on enrolment, at 15 months and between 4 and 5 years.

For your own child’s wellbeing, it is helpful to be informed after each immunisation has been given.

Immunisation records are confidential.

Children’s immunisation certificates are in the back of their Well Child Tamariki Ora Health Book. This certificate should be signed off by the child's health professional.

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ISOLATION PROCEDURE FOR SICK CHILDREN

RATIONALE

At times, children will fall suddenly ill when attending the Centre. If a child is suspected of illness, it becomes imperative to isolate the sick child as quickly as possible, in order to minimise the risk of exposure to the other children. At times like this, especially after a bout of diarrhoea or vomiting, hygiene and infection control are especially important.

Respectful interactions between teacher and child are also very important. The teachers at Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs will always consider the child’s need for privacy and the need to be gentle, nurturing and respectful with the child.

TE WHĀRIKI

Well‐being Goal 1. Children experience an environment where their health is promoted.

PROCEDURES

In all cases of suspected illness:

If the child has become soiled after diarrhoea or vomiting, take the child to the shower and follow the Wash Down Procedure for Sick or Soiled Children.

Isolate the child in the Office.

Using the mattress hanging inside the closet, have the child lie down and make him/her as comfortable as possible.

If the child is vomiting, use the bucket inside the closet.

Notify a parent (or emergency contact) to come and collect the child.

Fill in the Illness Register.

A laminated copy of this procedure should always be prominently displayed on a wall beside the Office.

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CELEBRATIONS POLICY

Rationale:

Children’s health and wellbeing (hauora) will be promoted by the centre during

celebrations. Safe food handling and supervision practices are always followed, and

parents / family / whanau members are encouraged to also promote healthy eating and to

notify staff of ingredients of food in the products they are bringing.

Aim:

To ensure safety and health and wellbeing (hauora) are always upheld and healthy eating

is promoted and encouraged

Procedures:

1. Ask parents what they plan to bring in, ahead of time (if anything) 2. Ask parents if they could find out the ingredients of what they are bringing in 3. Offer other healthier options 4. Remind parents of allergies and food preferences of other children. 5. We discourage giving out lollies to children, however they may get a lolly when they

go home, if that was giving out.


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Week beginning____/_____/_____

CENTRE LOCKUP PROCEDURE

Updated on 7th June 2019

Week beginning: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Physically check all room thoroughly

Turn off any lights, fans, heat pumps,

air conditioning units

Heat pumps timers have to be taken

off on Fridays only.

Close and lock all windows and doors

Close and lock all gates

Check that nappy bin/s have been

emptied

Check that all lockers are clean and

tidy ready for the next day

Ensure all power outlets not required

are covered and are turned off.

Check all sign in and out sheets of all

rooms, to make sure all children

have been collected and signed out.

Should a child not be signed out,

parents should be contacted to

ascertain pick up time. Staff then

initial that contact has been made

and put the time the child was

picked up.

Blinds are pulled down in the

preschool room (carpark)

Road sign and flag have been

brought in

Any maintenance needed

Signature of staff completing this on closing Name of closing staff

Opening staff member to sign the

following morning to confirm all

duties were performed.

Name of opening staff

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CHILD PROTECTION POLICY

Rationale:

Teachers at Li’l Champs early learning centre are made aware of this policy and the issues of

emotional, physical and sexual abuse at the time of their induction. Teachers operate within

the national code of ethics which sets a high standard for professionals in our field. Under

section 6 of the children, young persons and their families act (1998) “the interest safety and

well-being of children are paramount”. The whānau / families are involved in the process of

the review of this policy, so they are also aware of this policy, so that children at Li’l Champs

are protected and cared form.

1. Child abuse prevention:

1.1 Establish basic principles

- Recognise and respond appropriately

- Be familiar with and be able to implement this policy

- Be aware of the laws and regulations, rights and responsibilities of children, staff parents and 'agency' personnel, which relate to child abuse protection.

1.2 Staff training

All staff are required to read and understand this policy and accept the responsibility to

implement this policy. Li’l Champs has a commitment to the ongoing training of teachers in

the area of child protection so that they may best recognise, report and support those

involved in child protection issues. Li’l Champs is committed to maintaining and increasing

staff awareness of how to prevent, recognise and respond to child protection issues.

Provision for teachers to receive training in this area will be made available to staff in the

way of workshops, courses and literature on a bi-annual basis. The Centre Manager is always

available to guide and support teachers through the correct procedures when dealing with

cases of suspected child abuse. Teachers new to Li’l Champs will be made aware of the Child

Protection as part of their induction. Up-to-date literature will be kept in the centre for all

staff and other adults to read and familiarise themselves with child protection procedures.

1.3 Professional agencies

To maintain knowledge of, and trust in, the agencies which have the appropriate statutory

power and skills to respond effectively to child protection issues and procedures.

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1.4 Employment

All applicants for teaching positions must provide a comprehensive work history and should

include all professional training undertaken. At least two references must be provided from

past employers– though we acknowledge that it is sometimes not appropriate to contact the

present employer. Evidence of a clear police check is required before any appointment is

made. We are committed to employing teachers with necessary skills to contribute to

children’s safety including their physical, emotional, intellectual, social and cultural

development.

1.5 Supervision

Li’l is committed to keeping children and teachers in the centre safe. All centres have a

supervision policy that addresses the issue of staff being alone with children. It is the policy

of Li’l Champs that only those employed by us can be responsible for supervision of children

– this ensures that no other adult is left unsupervised with the children. There is a clear

open-door policy in centres, particularly in the children’s toilet area, to ensure that staff are

always visible to others. It is a requirement that teachers take all appropriate steps to keep

themselves and the children in their care safe by alerting another staff member/adult when

it is necessary for them to assist in toileting or other caretaker tasks. No centre teacher can

remain alone in the centre with a child/ren. Where practical, all parts of the outdoor area,

where children can go, shall be able to be readily observed by staff supervising. The staff-

supervising children shall, as far as practicable, be observable by one other staff member.

1.6 Professionalism

Li’l Champs demands a high standard of professional and ethical behaviour from the teachers

it employs. Teachers are encouraged to keep their private and professional lives separate.

Each team is encouraged to address the use of ethical behaviour. Monthly staff meetings

allow teachers to address professional issues on a regular basis. The Centre Manager is

responsible for ensuring that all adults present in the centre adhere to a high standard of

ethical behaviour in the centre. Clear guidelines need to be given to any voluntary help /

students etc.

Whilst it is appropriate to respond to a child who initiates physical contact in seeking

affection, or who needs reassurance or comfort it is not appropriate to force any form of

unwanted affection or touching on a child.

Touching should not be initiated to gratify adult needs. Physical contact of children during

changing or cleansing must be for the purpose of that task only and not be more than is

necessary for the job.

Any person who perpetrates or colludes with any sexual act on or with a child will be instantly

dismissed.

Inappropriate practice for adults working with children:

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• Any form of verbal, physical and/or emotional ill-treatment. Corporal punishment i.e.:

smacking

• Isolating children either physically or visually, including time out. This does not include

inclusive time out, cool down time and taking control as outlined in Providing Positive

Guidance policy.

• Immobilization (meaning restraint by means other than the child being held by the teacher

to ensure the well-being of the child and others)

• Deprivation of food, drink, warmth, shelter or protection

• Use of blame, harsh language, belittling or degrading responses

• Shaming or comparing children

Inappropriate practices by adults/staff will not be tolerated by Li’l Champs. It is the

responsibility of the staff to communicate unacceptable practice to the Centre Manager. Any

staff member observed or alleged to be using any of the above practices may be disciplined

as per the employment handbook and may be removed immediately from working with

children until a full investigation has been completed. Li’l Champs will exclude any person

employed or engaged in the service from coming into contact with children if they have

reasonable grounds to believe that the person; is in a state of physical or mental health that

presents any risk of danger to children; or has an infections or contagious disease or

condition.

2. Responding to information or a complaint

Where any person reports to any staff member any suspicions of child abuse at the centre, the staff member shall immediately notify the Centre Manager. Where appropriate the person making the allegation will be given a copy of this policy. When advised about an incident or allegation the Manager shall immediately investigate and shall fully, carefully and accurately record in writing both the allegation and a diary version of the process and results of the investigation. The Centre Manager shall where appropriate seek the assistance of Children Youth and Families (CYF) or other 'professional support agencies' in order to carry out a suitable and fair investigation. During the investigation priority must be given: • To protect the child and • To protect the rights of those involved 2.1 When to call in what agency? If it is clear from information or investigation that there is clear evidence or reasonable cause to believe of an instance of child abuse having taken place the Centre Manager shall notify an appropriate outside support agency i.e. CYFNZ Police or CYF on 0508 FAMILY (0508 326459) and discuss your concerns anonymously if you are unsure if your observations constitute abuse. 2.2 When a staff member is suspected Initial report of any incident must be written down in full as soon as possible. Where appropriate the Centre Manager will discuss the incident as soon as practical with the staff member and other possible witnesses. The staff member's version of the incident(s) will be

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investigated before any decision is made. Where the investigation takes more than one day, the staff member may be asked to carry out alternative duties or suspended until a full investigation can be completed. Appropriate support will be accessed for the staff member. Where there is some substantive evidence that an instance of child abuse may have taken place then CYF should be contacted by the Centre Manager. Where there are reasonable grounds to suspect that an instance of child abuse has taken place, that staff member shall be suspended whilst an investigation occurs. The Centre Manager will consider the advice of Child Youth and Family (CYF) and then refer to the NZ Police for investigation. The parent of the child (or children) affected will be advised as soon as possible. 2.3 Exclusion

The service provider will exclude any person employed or engaged in the service from meeting children if they have reasonable grounds to believe that the person has: a) physically ill-treated or abused a child or committed a crime against children; or b) in guiding or controlling a child has subjected the child to solitary confinement, immobilisation, or deprivation of food, drink, warmth, shelter, or protection c) is in a state of physical or mental health that presents any risk of danger to children; or has an infectious or contagious disease or condition If necessary, to ensure no child becomes ill, the service provider excludes that person from the service and ensures they do not enter or remain in the premises while the service is being provided.

2.3(a) Obligations to staff Whilst the protection of the child/ren shall be paramount and the next obligation of the Centre Manager shall be a full and fair investigation, it shall not be forgotten the impact to staff members this can have. Care will be taken to ensure that the presumption of innocence of those accused or implicated will be maintained until investigations are complete. Counselling time off will be offered to staff that have been accused wrongly. 2.4 What a parent should do if abuse in the Centre is suspected All suspicions or observed incidents or reports of incidents should be reported directly to the Centre Manager as soon as possible, who will immediately take steps to protect the child(ren), record the report and institute an investigation. The parent who has made the allegation or report must not discuss this with other staff, nor the person(s) or parents involved in the alleged abuse, nor other parents, or persons outside the centre, until after a full and fair investigation has taken place. This policy will be displayed in full on the notice board. The parent of the child (or children) affected will be advised as soon as possible after investigations are reasonably complete. The parent has the right to report allegations to CYF and / or NZ Police at any time. 2.5 When a parent/caregiver is suspected of abuse Where there are reasonable grounds to suspect that a child has been or is subject to abuse, (but not in immediate danger) the Centre Manager will be advised and will arrange for the child to be observed and a confidential record initiated. If it is clear from information or investigation that there is evidence or reasonable cause to believe of an instance of child abuse having taken place the Centre Manager shall notify an appropriate outside support

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agency (i.e. CYF). Where there is some doubt that an instance of child abuse has taken place the Centre Manager may determine that an independent 'mediator' should be called in to ensure that the policy has been followed and investigation is seen to have been done fairly and fully 2.6 When abuse outside the centre is suspected Consultation/Notification Where there are reasonable grounds to suspect that a child has been or is subject to abuse, (but not in immediate danger) the Centre Manager will be advised and will arrange for the child to be observed and a confidential record initiated. Where there are reasonable grounds to believe that a child is in immediate danger of abuse when they leave the centre or where an investigation or observations reveal evidence of abuse the Centre Manager shall notify the appropriate outside support agency or professional as soon as possible. Recording of information All observations, after an investigation has been notified, shall be kept in writing. These are to be kept confidential and stored in a secure place. – If staff are concerned enough to consider taking a photo of any markings evident on a child, then it should be deemed serious enough to make contact with CYF to seek advice on a formal notification – CYF will then advise you of the next appropriate steps in the recording of injuries. Advising and dealing with parent Decisions about when and who will inform the parent(s) and or caregiver will be determined by CYF and or NZ Police in consultation with the ECE service. (Note that all persons investigating, or reporting are protected from civil and legal action by parents or others provided they acted in good faith) 2.7 Parents advisory and training services Resources, books, posters, pamphlets are to be on display and/or readily available to both staff and parents and will, subject to demand, arrange evenings for parents and staff to hear visiting experts or view videos or participate in workshops of our child abuse protection policy: Parents are to be made aware of our child abuse protection policy by: • Full policy displayed on notice board • Summary in parent handbook given on enrolment • Advise as appropriate in Parent Newsletters A full copy of the policy shall be made available to parents on the parent notice board. 2.8 Review and evaluation This policy shall be reviewed in full by the Centre Manager at the time of preparing the Annual Management Plan and shall be discussed at next available centre staff meeting. After any incident or occasion in which significant elements of this policy have been implemented, this policy will be reviewed by the Centre Manager. .

Remember you are not experts in child abuse and as such when in doubt consult a supporting agency

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Contact Numbers:

• NZSTA = 0800 stahelp (0800 782 4435)

• Child, youth and family = 0508 326 459

• Local police = 261 1300

• MOE = 0800 848 326

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COMMUNICATION AND CONSULTATION

• We welcome each parent/ caregiver/ whanau into our centre openly and share information about their child’s learning when given the opportunity

• Communication and Events happening are displayed on the Notice Boards.

• Monthly newsletters are distributed to parents/ caregivers/ whanau with exciting updates on what the children have been experiencing during the month and what might be happening the following month.

• Portfolio’s / I.D. P’s are provided and updated on a regular basis with your child’s Strengths, interests and learning possibilities.

• Parent portal

• We have open days which occur termly, and these are advertised through centre newsletters, flyers, word of mouth and community events boards.

• We also hold parent evenings termly which gives us the opportunity to talk to parents about their child’s learning and to give the parents a chance to look at their child’s work and see what they are accomplishing and ask questions if needed.

• Policies and procedures are reviewed yearly, and parents are encouraged to view these

• Whanau hui will / can be held at the centre if parents request.

Reviewed: 30.09.2018

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COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE

Rationale:

In dealing with complaints Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs will be consistent in terms of fairness and

procedures. Li’l Champs believe parents and whanau should feel able to forward any concerns

ensuring their issues are acknowledged and dealt with.

Procedure:

• Issues should be taken directly to the teacher involved first. If there is no resolution at

this point, then the following procedures apply.

• Complaints will be received in writing only and should be directed to the centre Manger.

They will be acknowledged verbally on acceptance.

• Issues will be addressed as soon as possible, and the necessary actions will be taken if

valid.

• Total confidentiality will be managed through out by management and teaching team if

necessary.

• Anonymous complaints will not be actioned.

• If unresolved, contact Ministry of Education at

Level 3 Eden 5 Building

Cnr Edwin street and Mt Eden

Private Bag 92644

Auckland

Ph 09 6329400


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CONDUCT REQUIREMENT POLICY

Misconduct:

Misconduct is an action that breaches the rules on less serious types of behaviour. A breach

of the rules covering this type of action may result in a warning being issued to you. Repeated

breaches of the rules on misconduct (or persistent poor performance) will constitute grounds

for dismissal. Issues of misconduct which may justify dismissal with notice include but are not

limited to:

• Repeated absenteeism, lateness or poor timekeeping;

• Abuse of leave entitlements or unauthorised absence from work without good and

enough reason;

• Repeated failure to achieve acceptable standards of work performance in respect of

quality or timeliness;

• Sleeping on duty during working hours;

• Failure to provide the defined standards of care for children at your centre;

• Failure to complete stipulated hours of work or leaving an assigned place of work

without permission or valid reason;

• Reading non-work literature or indulging in unauthorised personal recreational

activities during working hours (including gambling on company premises for personal

gain, the playing of computer-based games, or accessing chat and internet sites,

sending and receiving text messages or making personal phone call;

• Failure to report unlawful activities (including dishonesty such as theft, embezzlement

or fraud) which affect or concern the company;

• Failure to observe safety rules/procedures or working or acting in a unsafe manner, or

failure to report an accident;

• Waste of time or material, lack of application to an assigned task, interfering with or

preventing another employee from carrying out his/her work functions;

• Allowing access to or use of company equipment to those not employed by the

company;

• Disorderly conduct, or boisterous behaviour, or practical joking that poses a danger to

others, adults and children or a danger or risk of damage to company property or

system;

• Smoking in prohibited areas;

• Failure to adhere to standards of dress and hygiene.

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Serious Misconduct:

Certain conduct is regarded by the company as so serious as to warrant summary dismissal.

Summary dismissal is dismissal without notice.

Conduct, which may justify summary dismissal below is not exhaustive but demonstrates the

degree of seriousness that could result in dismissal:

• Theft, unauthorised removal of property, being unlawfully in possession of company

property or other forms of dishonesty or criminal damage in connection with company

property, or the property of any other employee (whether such act results in criminal

prosecution);

• Fighting or physically assaulting another person on company premises or during

working hours;

• Verbal and physical abuse against any child under the protection of the company at

any of its centre;

• Verbal or physical abuse towards any parent/caregiver of a child who is attending a

company centre;

• Acts of negligence which may seriously affect the quality or safety of children and staff

at the centre;

• Acts of disobedience, negligence or incompetence that affect safety, quality, security,

company property or the good conduct of the business;

• Refusal to person normal duties or refusal to comply with a lawful and reasonable

instruction of a supervisor or manager;

• Using abusive or threatening language or behaviour towards any person on comply

premises or during working hours;

• Behaving in such a manner as to endanger the safety of other persons on company

premises;

• Loading or downloading or possession of pornography or related material from the

internet using any company equipment i.e. PC, fax, mobile telephone, photocopier,

etc.;

• Drunkenness or unauthorised consumption of liquor on company premises or whilst

conduction company business;

• Possession or use of illegal drugs or solvents on company premises or whilst on

company business;

• Misuse of medicines administrated to children or use of child’s medicine for own

personal use;

• Deliberate falsification of company records or time sheets (including employment

applications forms) or making false claims, declaration or reports;

• Misrepresenting the company for personal gain and/or unauthorised disclosure of

confidential company information;

• Sexual or racial harassment of fellow employee(s), children, customer(s) or supplier(s)

or unlawful discrimination against any of the above;

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• Breach of your confidentiality obligations or a serious breach of your obligations under

your contract.

The above is not intended as a complete list of all acts of serious misconduct which might

warrant summary dismissal, but an indication only. There may be other acts of misconduct,

which are so serious as to warrant summary dismissal.

You should be aware that the company reserves the right to notify the NZ Police where you

commit an act of dishonesty or are involved with illegal drugs. The company also has a duty

to notify the NZTC of any act of serious misconduct if it is committed by a qualified teacher.

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EMERGENCY PROCEDURES POLICY

RATIONALE

In the event of an emergency at Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs, teachers are aware that the safety and Well‐being of all children and staff are paramount. Teachers and staff will activate emergency response plans.

References – ECE Regulations 2008. Reg 46 HS7: PF28

TE WHĀRIKI

Well‐being – Goal 3. Children experience an environment where they are kept safe from harm.

PROCEDURES

At the beginning of each year, parents/whānau will be advised of the Centre's Emergency Safety Policies, through newsletters and Parent Meetings.

Once a term, fire, earthquake and evacuation drills are undertaken and documented by all teachers and auxiliary staff.

A full portable civil defence kit is stored in the Office. This will include food and water supply for everyone at the Centre for at least three days, a current phone list of staff and families, pain relief medication, tissues, plastic bags and hand washing equipment.

The Centre checks, updates paperwork and replenishes stock every six months.

Children will be collected by an authorized adult only. Children who are not collected by a parent, caregiver or other authorized adult are to be supervised at the Centre (if it is safe to remain) for up to three days. After three days, the emergency response unit will assume responsibility.

A record will be kept of any and all adults picking up children.

Fire protection procedures and equipment will be reviewed annually.

A plan for the safe evacuation of children and adults from the building is prominently displayed on the Notice Board.

Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs reserves the right to close the Centre in the event of a flu

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pandemic or other public health emergency.

If it is safe to remain at Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs and there is no immediate danger, teachers, staff and children will remain on site. We will provide the Civil Defence Centre with a completed Emergency Information Response Form which will include the following information:

1. Usual Location 2. Current Location 3. Total Numbers of adults at current location 4. Total number of children at current location 5. Number of people trapped 6. Number of people injured

In case of evacuation, Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs will re‐locate all staff and children to the Car park or the shelter outside the building towards Great South Road. This will be done by staff on foot. If possible, any change in location will be communicated via changing the phone message at the Centre and a written message at the entrance.

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CIVIL DEFENCE EMERGENCY PROCEDURE

IN THE EVENT OF A CIVIL DEFENCE EMERGENCY

If an emergency occurs:

Expect a flood of telephone calls (if the phone system is working)

Expect a major traffic jam on Great South Road (if the roads are open)

Expect people (neighbours/friends) volunteering to take children home. Do NOT release children to the custody of anyone not listed on the Pick‐Up List. Please refer to the Release of Children Policy.

In major emergencies, local emergency personnel will be severely overtaxed. It is YOUR responsibility to ensure the care and safety of the children.

Listen to the radio for instructions:

National Radio FM 101.4 or AM 756

Newstalk ZB FM 89.4

Classic Hits FM 97.4

More FM FM 91.8

Radio Live FM 100.6 or AM 702

It is important to listen to the radio and/or tv for information on what to do during an emergency. If you are advised to evacuate either via radio, or the emergency services, information on your nearest welfare facility will be made available at that time.

EARTHQUAKE PROCEDURE

At the onset of an earthquake, staff will:

1. Gather children and move to a safe area.

2. Everyone should Drop, Cover and Hold:

a) Drop to the ground

b) Cover your head or body with hands or sturdy piece of furniture

c) Hold onto the furniture

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3. A safe place could be under a sturdy piece of furniture or next to an internal wall, away from windows and bookcases.

4. Children and adults outside should follow the same practice: Drop, Cover and Hold.

5. When the earthquake has finished, gather children to the designated assembly point in the front playground grassy area.

6. Staff are to collect the attendance register, a mobile and landline phone, and the first aid kit. A staff member will call the roll to ensure all onsite people are accounted for;

7. Teachers with first aid certificates, where able, will check for injuries and administer treatment.

8. If able, Staff will turn off water and electricity at the mains.

9. If safe, return to the building, keeping alert as aftershocks may happen.

10. If property is damaged, take photographs for evidence.

11. Turn on the radio and listen for advice and information.

EARTHQUAKE DRILLS

The safest response for staff and children in an earthquake situation is likely to be the use of the ‘turtle’ position. A person in this position has their body tucked up with their knees and forehead on the floor, and their hands covering the back of their neck. This position provides maximum protection for the face, internal organs, and the most important area of the spinal column.

In serious earthquake situations the movement may be too great to allow a child to get under a table or move to a safer location. Tables will themselves move and be too hard for children to hold. The noise in an earthquake may induce panic, meaning that children will try to get to a teacher rather than anywhere else. The ‘turtle’ is easy for a child to do and does not involve complex instructions. By practising the ‘turtle’ often, children can be taught to adopt this position any time someone calls out “Turtle!”, so they are more likely to do it in the real event.

FIRE PROCEDURE

If a fire is discovered, a staff member will sound the alarm immediately.

The Centre Manager will call the fire service (111) 10 minutes prior to the practice of the Fire drill.

The Floor Warden will put on an armband for identification.

Teachers will ensure that all adults and children leave the building immediately through the fire exits.

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Staff will scan their area of responsibility to ensure children are moving into the designated place of safety.

The Head teacher will collect a mobile phone, the landline phone, and the sign‐in and visitor register and take to the assembly point.

Children, staff and visitors will assemble on the front playground (grassy area) at the front of Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs.

A teacher will check the sign‐in register and visitor register to ensure all children and adults are accounted for.

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VOLCANIC ERUPTION PROCEDURE

In case of a volcanic eruption and ash fall out:

Be prepared to respond rapidly!

↓

Keep the doors and windows closed.

↓

Centre Manager will call roll to ensure that everyone is accounted for.

↓

Reassure children and staff and keep them calm.

↓

Stay indoors as much as possible.

↓

If somebody is required to go outside:

Ensure they wear a mask and goggles from the Civil Defence kit.

↓

Listen for Civil Defence warnings on the radio.

↓

Decide whether to evacuate the children.

↓

Continue to reassure the children.

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EXCURSION POLICY

Rationale:

To ensure all children are always kept safe and for staff, parents and helps to ensure they are

fully aware of their roles and potential risks.

Applies to: Management, staff, parents/whanau, children and excursion helpers. Policy : (A) Provide guidelines for staff to ensure the safety of the children. (B) Provide opportunities to promote children’s awareness of the community and wider world (C) Provide children with a positive learning outcome Definitions: There are three kinds of excursion covered by this policy. * Distant / Special centre excursion - An excursion which normally includes use of vehicles including vans, cars or buses which is more than 1 hour in duration * Short walk or local excursion - An excursion where a small group of children are taken for a local walk within proximity to the centre * Regular Outings as part of the ongoing programme – definition of ‘regular’ outings and excursions are included in the interpretations section of the Licensing Criteria. A “Person Responsible” is defined as: A person holding a minimum of a Diploma of Teaching ECE and a current first aid certificate. Procedures for a “distant or special excursion” Before the Excursion: A notice outlining the details of the intended excursion will be made available to all parents prior to the intended date. This will be accompanied by a Parental Consent Form and will include requests for signed parent verification of: [ see Appendix 2 for a sample form] Date and Times of the Excursion Destination Parents availability to assist Approval of adult: child ratios Approval of mode of transport – public transport is the preferred mode The “Person Responsible” will assess the risks using the Risk Management Form, (Appendix 1) and consideration will be given to the age of the children, the skills of the adults involved, the nature of the children and the nature of the visit, e.g. water.

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An Excursion Register will be completed detailing the following information: [see Appendix 3] Date of Excursion Person Responsible Location of Excursion, address and phone numbers Purpose Departure Time Expected Return Time Full names of all staff and their qualification Full names of all children Signature by person responsible with actual return time Adult: child ratios Evaluate excursion once completed On the Excursion: The following PROCEDURES endorse the care and protection of children: 1. The Person Responsible is required to ensure that all adult interactions with the children are safe and that teachers and adult helpers are aware of their responsibilities on the excursion. 2. The Person Responsible will ensure that children are not exposed to risk that will put them in physical, emotional or psychological danger. 3. Ratios will not exceed 1:2 near water, (although it is preferable to have a 1:1 ratio on or near water), 1:3 for 0-2-year olds, 1:4 for 2,3 & 4-year olds. The Person Responsible will ensure these ratios are met. If the ratios cannot be met the excursion will be cancelled. Children or toddlers not on the roll accompany a parent helper are included in the child ratio and should be recorded in the register and on the roll. 4. The Person Responsible is required to ensure that excursions keep within the times planned as closely as possible 5. If a parent does not want their child to attend a whole centre excursion, adequate staff will remain behind at the centre to ensure their care. At least two teachers (or more dependent on the required ratio of adult to children necessary as per the Early Childhood Regulations 2008 will be available for children not attending a group excursion. At least one of the two staff members who will be left at the centre with children will be a “Person Responsible” under the definition of the Early Childhood Regulations 2008. 6. A list of all children attending the excursion must be accessible to teachers on the excursion and the roll will be called prior to leaving the centre and before returning to the centre. 7. Communication systems while on the excursion must be considered. Adults should have access to a phone in case of an emergency and a notice must be left on the door of the centre informing visitors of the whereabouts of the centre teachers and children and their expected time of return, contact number of emergency phone taken on the trip. 8. A first aid kit, drinking water and if applicable, sunhats and medication must be available on the excursion. 9. Swimming is not permitted at any time on a centre excursion. 10. The Person Responsible must ensure that the signed ratio is always maintained during the excursion (i.e. all supervising parent helpers must leave from and return to the centre and stay with the children for the duration of the excursion) 11. Smoking will not be permitted on excursions at any time.

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12. A Person Responsible must be a qualified staff member with a current first aid certificate as detailed in the definition above. 13. Public transport will be used as a preferred mode of transport. However, if cars or vans are being used all children will be restrained in safety approved over the shoulder child restraints as required by clause 7.6 of the land transport (Road User) rule 2004. There must be at least 2 adults in any motor vehicle carrying 3 or more children. All cars will meet the requirements under the Land Transport Act including warrant of fitness, registration and fully licensed drivers. Children are not permitted to travel in the front seat if the car is fitted with an airbag – unless they are over 148cm tall. Children must always remain seated while the vehicle is moving. 14. Should a planned excursion need to be cancelled all parents will be notified as soon as possible. Procedures for a “short walk or Local Excursion” Before the Excursion: Local walks/excursions may occur without prior notice to parents with only those children whose parents have signed the enrolment form agreeing to this. Such excursions might include local walks within proximity to the centre. The Person Responsible will check that written permission on the enrolment form for impromptu walks in the immediate environment has been gained. The “Person Responsible” will assess the risks and complete a risk assessment form. Consideration will be given to the age of the children, the skills of the adults involved, the nature of the children and the nature of the visit, e.g. water. An Excursion Register – Appendix 4 will be completed detailing the following information: Date of Walk/Excursion Person Responsible Adult: Child ratio Location of Walk/Excursion, address and phone numbers Purpose Departure Time Expected Return Time Full names of all staff and their qualification Full names of all children A simple map identifying the route of the walk Signature by person responsible with actual return time Evaluate excursion once completed On the Walk/Excursion: The following PROCEDURES endorse the care and protection of children: 1. No excursions or impromptu walks will take place with less than two adults, one of these being a “Person Responsible”. 2. The Person Responsible is required to ensure that all adult interactions with the children are safe and that teachers and adult helpers are aware of their responsibilities on the walk/excursion. Spontaneous outings (that do not meet Person Responsible requirements) are specifically approved by the Person Responsible [ Licensing Criteria HS17] for centres licensed under 2008 regs only

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3. The Person Responsible will ensure that children are not exposed to risk that will put them in physical, emotional or psychological danger – [a Risk Management Form must be completed prior to excursion – Appendix 1.] 4. Ratios will not exceed 1:2 near water, (although it is preferable to have a 1:1 ratio on or near water, 1:3 for 0-2-year olds, 1:4 for 2,3 & 4 year olds. The Person Responsible will ensure these ratios are met. If the ratios cannot be met the walk/excursion will be cancelled. Children or toddlers not on the roll accompany a parent helper are included in the child ratio and should be recorded in the register and on the roll. 5. The Person Responsible is required to ensure that walks keep within the times planned as closely as possible – an Excursion Register for local or short walks – Appendix 4 - must be completed prior to excursion taking place 6. A list of all children attending the walk must be accessible to teachers on the walk and the roll will be called prior to leaving the centre and before returning to the centre. 7. Information about the trip will be completed on arrival back at the Centre and placed where parents can read it. E.g. in the diary, whiteboard or day sheet. 8. Communication systems while on the walk must be considered. Adults must ensure they have access to a phone in case of an emergency. 9. A first aid kit, drinking water, appropriate clothing and any required medication must be available on the walk. 10. Swimming is not permitted at any time on a centre excursion. 11. The Person Responsible must ensure that the signed ratio is always maintained during the walk (i.e. all supervising parent helpers must leave from and return to the centre and stay with the children for the duration of the walk) 12. Smoking will not be permitted on walks/excursions at any time. 13. A Person Responsible must be a qualified staff member with a current first aid certificate as detailed in the definition above. Procedure for regular outings as part of the ongoing programme A single written Risk Management form for regular ongoing excursions will be agreed with parents at the time of enrolment – e.g. a weekly trip to the local library. [All ‘special’ excursions must have a separate risk management form and excursion permission form signed prior to each excursion- see above] Risk Management Form: Appendix 1 Date of excursion: ___/___/____ *Or this is a regular excursion undertaken as part of our programme and is undertaken on a ___________basis Venue name: __________________________________ Location _______________________________ Number of children _______ Age of children _______ Adult: child ratio ____: ____ Distance from centre _____________ Mode of Transport ____________________ Activities that will be undertaken at venue: _________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ Have you physically visited the venue? Yes / No

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Is the venue appropriate for the activities planned? Yes / No Is their suitable vehicle access for emergencies? Yes / No Is there a supply of fresh water on site? Yes / No Is there communication available in case of emergencies? Yes / No First Aid requirements will be met Yes / No Are there hazards that require specific management plans? Yes / No If so: Identified Hazard Potential Risk to children ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Strategies needed to manage hazard ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Is there anything else you need to consider to ensure that this excursion is safe for your children? __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ Signed: Centre Manager / Persons Responsible_____________________________ Date _________________

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Permission Form for Excursion: Appendix 2 I ____________________ [parent name] give permission for__________________ [child’s name] to go on an excursion to ____________________________________ Date of excursion _____________________________ Address of excursion___________________________________________________________ Departure time __________________________ Return time _______________________ Our mode of transport will be _____________________________________ Adult: Child ratio for this excursion will be _________________ [please note that the maximum Adult: Child ratio will be 1:3 for children under 2’s and 1:4 for children over 2’s] The purpose of this excursion is __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ The person responsible on this excursion will be _____________________________ I _________________________________ [parent /guardian name] • Am available to help on this excursion Yes /No • Have sighted the Risk Management Form Yes /No • Agree with the above Adult: Child Ratio Yes / No • Agree with the mode of transport. Yes / No Signed_____________________________________ Date _______________ Excursion Register for Special or ‘Distance’ Excursions: Appendix 3 Date of excursion: ________________ Person Responsible: __________________ Location of Excursion: _______________________________________________ Purpose of Excursion: _________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Departure time __________________ Expected Return time__________________ Adult: child ratios will be: __________ Full name of staff and their qualifications: ________________ _______________ _______________ _______________ ________________ _______________ _______________ _______________ ________________ _______________ _______________ _______________ ________________ _______________ _______________ _______________

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Names of Parent helpers: _______________ ________________ _______________ _______________ _______________ ________________ _______________ _______________ _______________ ________________ _______________ _______________ _______________ ________________ _______________ ________________ Names of children [Or attach separate list] We are taking the first aid kit and an updated phone list YES /NO ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Evaluation of excursion: Actual return time: __________ Person responsible recording this______________ What worked well? _________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ What could have been done better? _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ Anything else that needs to be taken into consideration for the next excursion?_________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ Signed by person responsible: ______________________Date________________ Excursion Register for Local or Short Walk Excursions Appendix 4 Teacher organising excursion ___________________ Date ___________________ Contact phone during excursion _________________ Full name of staff and their qualifications [and another adult]: _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ Children on Excursion: Or copy of day sheet with highlighted names of those attended YES/ NO Departure time __________________ Expected Return time ________________ Where are you going? [Please be very clear. Name route you will be taking and any stops – draw a map if it is local- use separate sheet if you need more space and attach to this form] We are taking the first aid kit and an updated phone list YES /NO Person Responsible authorising this Excursion _________________Date _________ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Evaluation of excursion:

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Actual return time: __________ Person responsible recording this_____________ What worked well? _________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ What could have been done better? _________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Anything else that needs to be taken into consideration for the next excursion? _________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Signed ___________________________ Date__________________________

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Appendix 5 Excursion Checklist Administration:

Risk assessment and notice to parents completed Contingency plan developed Venue and date confirmed Transport confirmed Written notice given to parents Signed permission forms back from parents [to be filed with a copy of the notice to

parents and this checklist] Roll and emergency contact phone numbers for participating children Excursion register and evaluation form completed

Children: Name Tags Sunhats Drink bottles Any medication + medication form [to be held by a teacher] Other ________________________________________

Teachers on the trip: ECE Qualified / Registered [at least 1 teacher] First aid certificate [at least 1 teacher] Cell phone First aid kit Register of children attending and emergency contact details

Ratios maintained as per risk analysis form Teachers remaining at the centre:

ECE qualified and registered [at least one teacher First aid certificate [at least one teacher] Ratios maintained as per MOE / KC requirements

Where private vehicles are used: Current [Full] Driver Licence Current warrant of Fitness Current vehicle registration Appropriate and legal restraints for children Ratios: 2 adults per 3 or more children travelling in a vehicle

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Excursion form for Transitioning children: Appendix 5

As part of our programme to ensure that we meet the individual needs of all children and to ensure a happy, safe and appropriate transition of children to the next centre we will be taking your child on regular visits to their new room / centre. In order for this to occur we require you to complete the details below. I _______________________________ [parent /guardian] give permission for my child _______________________________________ [ full name] to go on regular transition visits to _________________________ [centre / room]. • I have sighted the risk analysis form for this excursion YES / NO • I am aware of the adult child ratio which will be to a maximum of ___:___ YES / NO Signed ____________________________Parent / Guardian Date _____________ ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Date of visit Time of visit Ratio on visit Staff member Comments

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PARENT FEES POLICY

RATIONALE

Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs is committed to making our parent's fees structure clear and easy to understand. We are committed at ensuring accountability in the expenditure of income received from parent fees and government funding.

PROCEDURES

Our Fee Structure is as follows:

Hours Under 3 (per week)

Over 3 (per week with

20 hrs. ECE)

Over 3 (per week without

20 hrs. ECE)

Upto 20 hours Sessions (8-12 or 1-5)

$30.00 (per session)

FREE $30 (per session)

30 hrs per week (up to 6 hours a day)

$175 $80 $200

Full day rate $55 $35 $55

7.30 – 6.00pm (weekly)

$240 $150 $240

Parents and whānau are required to reserve a minimum of 12 hours per week for the attendance of their child, for a minimum of 2 days.

Enrolment of child spaces is subject to regular weekly booking.

Casual child spaces are to be arranged with management.

Parents and whānau are not able to swap hours or sessions.

WINZ – If, for any reason, a WINZ subsidy is cancelled or suspended, it is the responsibility of the parents/ whānau to maintain fees in full until WINZ subsidy is granted again.

Fees are to be paid via direct debit/ EFTPOS/ Cash.

Fees will be charged for any sessions that are not attended, for any reason.

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Fees will be charged for public holidays.

Fees will be charged at a holiday rate only when two weeks written notice has been given. The holiday rate is based at 50%.

Families may claim the holiday rate for a maximum period of 3 weeks per year. For example, an enrolment of 4 days per week is eligible for 12 days at the holiday rate (4 days per week x 3 weeks).

Parents and whānau will be required to give two weeks written notice of intention to cancel or change their allocated child space.

Fees will be required to be paid in full when enrolment of the child space ceases.

Sibling discount: A 10% sibling discount will be applied to the fees of the older child(ren) with the same legal guardian.

Any charges incurred by Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs to retrieve unpaid accounts will be met by the parents/whānau.

Enrolment may be cancelled at Management's discretion in the event of continuing fees arrears.

In the event of a parent continuing to be late in collecting their child outside of their enrolment hours, a late fee will be charged at a rate of $10 for every 10 minutes.

Three‐week absence rule: According to the Ministry of Education, if the child is absent for 3 consecutive weeks without a valid reason, the childcare providers will be unable to claim the funding. If the parent/guardian fails to reconfirm the child’s enrolment agreement, he/she will be unenrolled from the centre.

Frequent absence rule: If frequent absence pattern continues across 3 months consecutively, funding cannot be claimed in the fourth month and your child’s enrolment will be cancelled.

Emergency closures: As per other childcare facilities, a full fee applies for an emergency

closure. Emergency closure can be due to extreme weather conditions, interruptions to

essential services, non-controllable health and safety issues and civil defence emergencies.

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PERSONNEL POLICY

RATIONALE

At Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs, we value our teachers and choose to employ only the best. They are the most valuable resource the children in our Centres have. Our teachers need to be nurtured and rewarded for them to teach to their full potential.

TE WHĀRIKI

Belonging – Goal 2. Teachers experience an environment where they know that they have a place.

PROCEDURES

All teachers employed by Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs are over 17 years of age.

In accordance with government regulations, Police vets are performed on all prospective, non‐registered employees.

Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs ensures adequate resource and work spaces are available to all teachers.

Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs is committed to maintaining its low teacher turnover by being good and fair employers.

All teachers at Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs are working under individual employment agreements.

Management respects the right of all employees to membership of an employee’s organisation and choice of representation in negotiating for an employment contract.

Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs has an Operations Manual. At least one copy is always kept in the Office, and each teacher is given their own copy at the time of their induction. This manual covers professional conduct, induction, philosophy, staff disciplinary code and Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs policies.

Any personal grievance should be in writing addressed to the Centre Manager. If the grievance remains unresolved, outside mediation will be sought.

All personnel files are confidential and are kept under lock and key.

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FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT POLICY

Rationale:

Good financial management practice ensures the long-term viability of any service.

Procedures:

• All incomes and expenditure are handled by the centre manager and the owners.

• Monthly budgets are completed by the centre manager and checked by the owners.

• Parent’s fees and the government funding are paid to Lil Champs accounts via

automatic payment authority.

• The centre’s financial year ends on the 31st March and audited.

• Cash payments for late fees or trips are banked weekly.

• Receipts are provided for parents at the end of the financial year or by request.


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FIRST AID POLICY

Rationale:

To ensure that the centre provides a well-equipped first aid kit that all adults have access

to. Also, to ensure that all qualified staff have a current first aid certificate.

Aim:

To maintain high safety standards and ensure the centre complies with Ministry Standards.

First Aid Kit:

1. The location of the first aid kit is pointed out upon induction with new staff to the centre.

2. All adults will have access to the first aid kit. 3. The first aid kits will be serviced monthly by the centre manager see appendix 1 4. A travel first aid kit is also available in the preschool room for such things as excursions.

First Aid Certificate:

1. All staff expiry dates are recorded 2. The centre manager will ensure to book staff on an approved first aid course before

there due expiry date. 3. The centre manager will have a copy of each staff members first aid certificate on their

personal file.


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FUNDRAISING POLICY

Rationale:

To provide another means for funds for the centre.

Aim:

To encourage fundraising events that involve the whole centre and to record all fund

raising in an appropriate way that is informative and collective and to ensure that there

is an agreed common goal for which funds are spent.

Procedures:

1. At a staff meeting ideas and thoughts are documented and recorded

2. Parents are informed through newsletters

3. The Centre Manager will ensure correct procedure to adhere to for the

documentation and fundraising events.

4. The centre has a fundraising account which is opened under Li’l Champs Fundraising

and it requires two signatures to withdraw money.

5. Bank statements are kept in the correspondence folder.

6. All deposits are recorded in the deposit book with amount and where it came from.

7. Ways of fundraising at this centre may include photos, calendars, raffles, hampers,

foundation skills book.

8. Funds are spent on anything that will benefit the centre and children.

9. Before any fundraising may take place, the Centre Manager must be informed, and

all staff must agree to what they are fundraising for and how they are going to do it.

Date review: 02.12.2018

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LI’L CHAMPS – HAZARD LIST DATE UPDATED:

Type

Hazard

Potential Harm

Significant

Hazard

Yes/No

Action Proposed

E/I/M

Frequency

of

monitoring

Completed

by

* E = Eliminate, I = Isolate, M = Minimise

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MEDIA POLICY

Policy and Objectives

Li’l Champs recognises that the media can play a vital role in presenting the organisation and its centres in the best light to the public. All communications with the media must be strategic and consistent. There are only people able to speak on behalf of Li’l Champs or its centres are the owners. There may be occasions when they delegate this responsibility to others. For example, a centre opening may have quotes from a transitional manager however this process will be managed by the owners. No one else can speak directly to any media source. If someone from the media calls you for a comment you are to refer them to one of the owners. This ensures that what is reported about Li’l Champs or its centres is accurate and consistent with the image we are working to project. Community Notices Placement of community notices and advertisements by Centres requires the written approval of the owners. Teaching Teams are recognised by the industry as an important part of the public face of our organisation. Local media provides an excellent opportunity for frequent exposure in our local community. Therefore, teaching teams are encouraged to use these opportunities as often as possible to promote their centre activities and achievements. If in doubt, always contact the owners before any interaction with the media to ensure that the above policies are being adhered to.

Reviewed date: 03.11.2018

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MEDICATION POLICY

Rational:

The giving of medicine to a child while at the centre is sometimes essential for the health and

wellbeing of the child and must be done in a safe manner. This policy is designed to ensure

that all medication is administered correctly.

Objective:

• To ensure that all medication is stored safely.

• To ensure that all medication is administered with signed parental authorisation to the

correct child, at the correct time, in the correct way, in the correct dosage.

• To ensure staff sign that they have done so at the time of administering the

medication.

Management Plan:

There are now 3 categories of medicine and staff need to ensure that they are familiar with

which category.

Category (1) – definition – a non-prescriptive preparation such as Arnica cream, antiseptic

liquid, insect bite treatment etc

- Used for the first aid treatment of minor injuries

- It is not ingested

- Provided by the service and kept in the first aid cabinet

Authority required: written authority from a parent given at enrolment to the use of specific

preparations for the period the child is enrolled. The centre must provide specific information

to the parent which category (1) preparations that will be used.

Category (2) – definition – a prescription such as antibiotics, eye / ear drops or non-

prescriptive such as paracetamol liquid, cough syrup e.t.c – medicine this is:

- Used for a specific period to treat a specific condition or symptom

- Provided by a parent for the use of that child only.

Authority required: a written authority from a parent given at the beginning of each day the

medicine is administered, detailing the name of the medicine, method and dosage and time

and specific symptoms / circumstances medicine it to be given – especially for Paracetamol

and Ibuprofen type medication. Writing if or when needed is not acceptable.

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Category (3) – definition – a prescription such as asthma inhalers, epilepsy medication etc. or

non-prescriptive such as antihistamine syrup, lanolin cream etc – medicine that is

- Used for the ongoing treatment of a pre-diagnosed condition such as asthma, epilepsy,

allergic reaction, diabetes, eczema etc.

- Provided by a parent for the use of that child only.

Authority required: a written authority from a parent given at enrolment as part of an

individual health plan or whenever there is a change detailing name of the medicine, method

and dosage and time or specific symptoms / circumstances medicine it to be given. Use

Appendix 1 for this authority while also ensuring that parents complete the appropriate

additional needs information or asthma details actions plan form attached to the enrolment

agreement. Any allergies / reactions that the parent knows about must be noted on the

enrolment form and then added to the appropriate allergy list.

Medication records must be kept for 7 years

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NON-CONTACT POLICY

Rationale:

Li’l Champs is committed to ensuring that staff can plan, implement and evaluate a curriculum

that is designed to enhance children’s learning experiences and respond to children’s

strengths and interests. It is important however that this allocation of time does not interfere

with meeting the budgeted funding bands. Non-contact time refers to time off the floor, not

working with children. This could be for programme planning and assessment purposes,

attending meetings, portfolio preparation or professional development opportunities. Li’l

Champs has allocated 2 hours per week non-contact time.

Purpose:

• To ensure that staff have an opportunity to document children’s learning and to respond

accordingly;

• To ensure that rostering of non-contact time is in line with the funding band objectives set

down in the centre budget; and

• That any planned meetings or professional development opportunities do not impact on

funding band objectives.

Guidelines:

It is important that centres balance the objective of providing non-contact time against

ensuring the centre meets the optimum funding band. Overall consideration of time off the

floor for non-contact and other types of “off the floor activities” can be pre-planned in a

funding period. For staff to plan and implement the curriculum, non-contact time should

ideally be available.

Date Reviewed: 17.15.2018

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PETS POLICY

Rationale:

At Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs we consider animals to be an important part of the daily

experiences we provide for our children. Children can develop respect and a sense of

responsibility in caring for the animals. The well-being of any animal in the care of Indigo

Educare/Li’l Champs is of paramount importance to their inclusion in our programme.

Procedures:

• Food and water supply for all animals is checked daily. Children are encouraged to take

part in this caring routine.

• Teacher’s role model responsibility and care of the pets. This helps children to learn the

skills of caring for the animals themselves and others.

• A roster for the cleaning of the animal environment is maintained to ensure each teacher

has a turn and the animals are kept clean and healthy.

• Children experience hands on care and touch as the animals are brought into the

classroom environment regularly.


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PHYSICAL ACTIVITY POLICY

RATIONALE

At Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs, we promote all aspects of individual children’s health and well‐being. Physical activity is vital for children's optimum growth and health.

TE WHĀRIKI


PROCEDURES

Parents are requested to provide appropriate clothing for their children that will enable their child’s full participation in physical activity in all weathers. “There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.”

Teachers provide children with opportunities both morning and afternoon for climbing, balancing, kicking, throwing, jumping, running and other locomotor movements.

Teachers and parents are encouraged to be good role models by promoting and participating in physical activity.

The environment will allow space and equipment which follows children’s interests and promotes free and challenging physical experiences both indoors and out.

Children are encouraged to move freely on their own as their capabilities and development allows.

Natural motor development will be supported.

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Policy and Procedure review

Name of Policy or procedure:

Date of review:

Why are you reviewing: Annual review / Incident review

Who is involved in the review:

How is the review taken place?

What are the key concepts in this policy or procedure?

Is there anything that needs changing in the policy or procedure?

Why do they need changing?

How has the changes been communicated to staff and parents?

Has the policy been updated and in the policy folder?

Yes / No

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Policy Consultation

Dear Parents and teachers,

It is important that everyone has sign this form to say that they have either read the policy

attached or have been provided with the opportunity to read it.

NAME OF POLICY REVIEWED: _____________________________________

Consultation Date How consultation took place

Name of person consulted and

signature

Agree/disagree

Comments

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POSITIVE GUIDANCE POLICY

Rationale:

At Li’l Champs teachers are always required/expected to model pro-social skills. respect,

affection, acceptance and inculcate self-confidence in children. We always encourage children

to feel socially empowered and feel valued and respected. Our philosophy is that each child

has unique individual potential which requires nurturing through effective and gentle

guidance.

Procedures:

• Re-direction of behaviour, guide child towards more appropriate activity.

• Teachers will always role model appropriate behaviour and encourage children to do this to

each other.

• Teachers will use lots of praise, encouragement and positive affirmations statements to

empower children. Such statements can include “I really like what you have done ….”, “well

done- I like the way you helped ……”, “You are a star, you followed instructions…”.

• Promotion of peaceful problem-solving strategies which empower children.

• Always offer the child an explanation of why certain behaviours is unacceptable and inform

the child of the desired behaviour.

• Allowing the child time to correct his or her behaviour, i.e., by approaching the situation and

asking, “what’s happening here?” then offering choices to the child on how to try things

differently.

• Removing the toy, activity or object that is central to the inappropriate behaviour after a

warning has been given.

• Extremely inappropriate behaviour may result in a child being removed to a quiet, safe place

to cool off. A teacher will always remain with the child and keep themselves calm and

supportive at all times..

• Teachers will work with the parents to individual behaviour guidance plan where appropriate.

• Li’l champs is a “no hitting, no shouting”, “no snatching” zone.

• A calm and peaceful manner will be used by the teachers as much as possible to ensure

children’s dignity is upheld and respected.


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Positive Guidance Procedure Step 1: Verbal request

(I don’t like it, you need to stop)

Step 2: Set consequence (If you’re going to do that, I will have to have it for a while, you will need to move)

Step 3: Follow up on consequence

(O.K. I’ve asked you to stop, I need to have it for a while or ……)

Step 4: Redirect (I don’t like your behaviour at the moment, so you need to go find something else to do

away from here)

Step 5: Ask another staff member for help (This is when you’ve followed the steps and are getting frustrated)

Positive Guidance Procedure for Challenging Behaviour

Step 1: Get the team together, identify and describe the challenging behaviour or issue.

Step 2: Document, observe and identify what events, people, activities are associated with the behaviour or issue

Step 3: Develop a plan and implement

Step 4: Gather the team and evaluate where to next.

Step 5: Discuss with parent/s

Step 6: Repeat step 3 or possibly make a referral


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Date Child’s Full Name

Symptoms Temperature Time temperature was taken

Action taken Staff signature

Parent signature

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PRIVACY POLICY

Rational:

We recognise and respect families and teachers’ individual rights in protecting their privacy.

Purpose: The Privacy Act 1993 was introduced to promote and protect individual’s privacy. The Act gives individuals some measure of control over personal information about themselves. The provisions of the Act apply to all persons and organisations within New Zealand in respect of personal information held by them other than for the purpose of their personal, family or household affairs. The main objective of the Act is to promote and protect personal information. The privacy principles are the core of the Privacy Act. It is to these principles that one must turn when dealing with the following:

- the collection of personal information

- the storage of personal information

- the use of personal information This means, in practice, that when requests for personal information are received from an individual or agency, these must be considered in terms of the Information Privacy Principles to see whether the information should be disclosed. All such requests require judgment on a case-by-case basis, with some being more difficult than others. Procedures:

- Staff must observe the intent of the legislation by keeping secure all records and personal information relating to individuals.

- Secure Storage of all such personal information is required: locking cupboards, filing cabinets and drawers need to be fully functional.

- No staff member shall disclose any personal information whatsoever to another party without the express, written consent of that individual.

- All such personal information, records, written material will always be securely stored and out of sight of the general public.

- Any requests from other services or parties for personal information will be referred to the Privacy Officer who will advise on the correct procedures.


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PROGRAMME ASSESSMENT AND EVALUATION POLICY

RATIONALE

As teachers, it is vital that we regularly assess and evaluate to celebrate and support each child’s learning and development. Our programmes reflect the principles, strands, goals and learning outcomes from Te Whāriki. This celebrates the uniqueness of each child and the group.

TE WHĀRIKI

Communication – Goal 4. Children experience an environment where they discover and develop different ways to be creative and expressive.

PROCEDURES

Programming is implemented co‐operatively by the teachers involved with each developmental age group.

Planning for toddlers is primarily based on age‐appropriate activities to support their developmental needs. Older groups of children will be planned for individually, as well as in a group.

Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs planning ensures children’s strengths and interests are being supported individually as well as within a group. Each child has a portfolio which is constantly revisited to document learning and development. Parents are encouraged to contribute to these through discussion and/or completing a ‘All About Me’ page.

Programming is based on observations of what children can do, their interest and their development. Teachers aim to support and challenge each child’s learning by providing a rich array of learning experiences, which reflect the child's development and interest in the world around them.

Planning has no time limit, reflects children’s development and can be as short or if needed.

Appropriate links will be made to Te Whāriki and other relevant development and learning theories.

Teachers plan experiences that support the learning and discoveries which have been identified through observations shared from home and at the Centre.

Each group has their own programming folder to record the programme, evaluate as a group, and then individually reflect on their own teaching skills.

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The current interests are displayed prominently for parents and whānau to view.

Teachers are responsible for supporting and documenting the learning and development for a group of children. They are responsible for collating and presenting developmental updates, anecdotal stories, artworks and photos within their portfolio folders. These folders are available to parents, whānau and caregivers to show the journey of their child’s learning and development at Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs.

Children are encouraged to revisit their own learning through having access to portfolios, curriculum folders and through displays at their level.

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RELIEVERS POLICY

RATIONALE

Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs aims to provide a consistent environment for children and teachers. We also appreciate the need for our permanent teachers to complete professional development, take annual leave, and special leave. To ensure an appropriate ratio always we are required to utilise relieving teachers at these times. These teachers require some guidelines to ensure they are acting in accordance with Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs policies and procedures.

TE WHĀRIKI

Belonging – Goal 3. Relievers experience an environment where they feel comfortable with the routines, customs and regular events.

PROCEDURES

Managers will ensure that relievers are given a brief induction before commencing work with the children.

A folder will be made available to new relieving teachers so that they may become familiar with significant policies and practices. This folder will also contain relevant contract, tax and police vet paperwork to be completed prior to starting work.

If a relieving teacher is present in the environment this information will be communicated to parents via the whiteboard.

The Centre Manager will make the decision of when to allow a new relieving teacher to take on roles of responsibility, such as group time and intimate care routines. Children’s comfort levels will be considered about this also.

Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs is committed to accessing the best relievers possible.

Whenever possible, Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs will employ a regular qualified reliever.

Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs compiles a list of preferred regular relievers.

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PROVISIONS FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Rationale:

To ensure that all staff have access to and the opportunity to attend professional

development as part of their on-going learning and development.

Identify areas for development through:

• One to one conversation

• Self-review

• Appraisal goals

• Areas of interest

• Areas that need developing

Support:

• Verbal communication with peers

• Centre Manager

• Internet

• Teachers council

• Ministry of education

• Training providers

• Workshops / conferences

Applications for approvals:

• All applications are to be processed by the centre manager and these will be

approved according to centre budgets and priority.

• Any professional development over $150.00 needs to be approved by the senior

management.

All professional development opportunities available will be displayed for staff in the staff

room and also discussed at monthly staff meetings.

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Regulations for child-teacher ratios for funding, as shown in APT staff rostering

Mixed Age group

1-3 children 1 teacher

4+ Separate into Under 2 and Over 2 age groups and refer below

Under 2


6-10 children 2 teachers




Over 2






Note this does not take account of health and safety practices, nor is it relevant to the % of

registered teachers for compliance purposes.

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SAND AREA POLICY

Rational

To ensure that the sand pit and surrounding area is kept clean and hygienic.

Procedure

• The sand pit will be raked each night after being used by the children and before covering.

• First thing the next morning the sand pit will be checked, and any foreign objects will be

removed and disposed of appropriately.

• The person responsible for opening the sand area in the morning, also needs to put 2 cups

in babies sand pit and 3 cups in preschool sand pit. And then rake through.

• The person responsible for checking the sandpit first thing in the morning will sign the daily

OSH check sheet. It is important to note any foreign objects that have been found. This will

allow staff to see any patterns forming and then developing an appropriate action plan to

eliminate them.

• The sand will be turned over weekly and any foreign objects removed.


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SELF REVIEW

Rationale:

To ensure that a review and evaluation process is embedded within the program of the

centre. Li’l Champs seeks to improve curriculum, practices, policies, procedures on a regular

basis as it is our goal to provide the best possible learning and development for children in

our care.

Key considerations:

• Reviews will be embedded within the annual plan

• Reviews will be reviewed monthly during staff meetings

• Each room will engage in at least 1 short review a month.

• The whole centre will engage in a long review.

• All staff, children and parents are to have an active role in the process

• Documentation is to be gathered of all stages of the process.

• Parents are given every opportunity to participate and give feedback.

• Allocation of time needs to be considered

• Allocation of roles and what is required needs to be considered

• Their needs to be consultation process that involves all relevant parties

• Templates are only a guide to keep you on track

• Think outside the square

• Open mind is required

• Reframe from having pre-conceived ideas about the outcome

What could be reviewed:

• Curriculum areas of play

• Practice

• Engagement

• Communication

• Policies and procedures

• Philosophy

• Environment

• Operation

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Forms of documentation:

• Templates

• Reflections

• Photo’s

• Wall Displays

• Self-review folder

• Surveys

• Questionnaires

• Emails

• General feedback

• Child’s portfolio

Process:

1. Identify a need or area to review.

2. Identify what is currently happening in the centre

3. Take photo’s

4. Identify what you would like to see in the centre

5. Research

6. Send out or talk to children, staff, and parents about what they think.

7. In consultation with relevant parties decide on an action plan.

8. Allocate roles and responsibilities to relevant parties

9. Decide on time frames

10. Use templates to guide your review

11. Documentation is the key to looking back and moving forward, so ensure that this is

completed regularly and during each stage of your review.

12. Do your action plan, give it a go, make the necessary changes.

13. Get feedback on the changes

14. Decide if it is working or needs to be adjusted

15. Evaluate

16. Revisit

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SPONTANEOUS Self-Review – Li’l Champs Papatoetoe

Date:

Topic:

⃝ Learning and Teaching Practice -Matauranga/Tikanga Whakaako

⃝ Collaborative Practice –Pou Arahi

⃝Governance and Management Practice-Pou Whakahaere

A) What prompted this review, what did we see? (the trigger)

B) What is happening here? (emerging trends and patterns in practice)

C) How can we improve our practice? (what is the “intended” outcome of change)

D) Evaluation Date:

E) Links to Registered Teacher Criteria:

Links to Te Whãriki:

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Li’l Champs Papatoetoe

LONG TERM INTERNAL EVALUATION PLAN

NAME:

DATE:

PREPARE

• What is being reviewed?

• Why are we reviewing this?

• What do we want to find out/ change?

What is our review focus? (A question or a statement that specifies what practice we want to improve) Learning & Teaching Practice Matauranga/Tikanga Whakaako Collaborative Practice Pou Arahi Governance and Management Practice Pau Whakahaere

Links to Registered Teacher Criteria

Links to strategic Plan

Links to Te Whariki

What kind of future do we want to create in relation to this area of our practice? Our vision

What indicators will guide us in realising our vision? (What would this aspect of practice look like if it were effective?)

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Remember: Use ECE resources to help you develop these as a team.

GATHER

• Who was involved?

• How were they involved?

• What were the main issues/ questions addressed?

What tools will we use to gather evidence about the current reality of our practice in relation to the review topic? Remember: Make sure there is a mix of qualitative & quantitative tools.

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MAKE SENSE

• What were the key points to come out?

• What did we learn/find out?

• What does all of this mean?

As we analyse the data, what trends, patterns and areas for improvement are emerging? Remember: “Let the date speak”.

DECIDE What did we decide to do/ Change?

What changes do we need to make to our practice? (How uncomfortable are we prepared to become? Remember: List key ideas then document changes to practice on the separate Action Plan for change.

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EVALUATE AND MONITOR

How will these changes benefit children and their learning? Remember: After you have implemented your Action Plan you need to evaluate the effectiveness of the changes to practice and monitor how well these changes are sustained.

How will we monitor the impact and sustainability of these changes?

Other Comments:

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Policy and Procedure review

Name of Policy or procedure:

Date of review:

Why are you reviewing: Annual review / Incident review

Who is involved in the review:

How is the review taken place?

What are the key concepts in this policy or procedure?

Is there anything that needs changing in the policy or procedure?

Why do they need changing?

How has the changes been communicated to staff and parents?

Has the policy been updated and in the policy folder?

Yes / No

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Policy Consultation

Dear Parents and teachers,

It is really important that everyone has sign this form to say that they have either read the

policy attached or have been provided with the opportunity to read it.

NAME OF POLICY REVIEWED: _____________________________________

Consultation Date How consultation took place

Name of person consulted and

signature

Agree/disagree

Comments

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SETTLING IN

Rationale:

Each child should feel comfortable, safe and secure in the Centre environment in the absence

of the parent or caregiver. This initial goal is vial and is the foundation upon which the child will

feel comfortable about extending interests and involvement in the centre programme.

Procedures:

1. Each parent is encouraged to visit the centre before their child’s first day these are known as pre visits.

2. During the pre-visit the parent must remain at the centre the whole time. At no point will the parent leave the centre.

3. We encourage the initial visits to be short and to be a reasonable quiet time and allow the child to bring their own familiar toy to assist with this transition if necessary.

4. During these times we spend time building a relationship and encourage them to participate and become involved in play and centre activities, especially with other children.

5. If appropriate we will contact the parent by phone during the first few weeks after the child has started at the centre to re-assure the parent that their child is doing well. If the child becomes distressed, we will also contact the parent and discuss the matter.

6. All children settle eventually, some children take longer than others. Parents are always welcome to call the centre any time to enquire how their child is doing.

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7. It is very important that during the first few weeks of joining the centre you bring your child regularly. The more they are here, the faster they will settle and build relationships.


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Daily Sleep Chart: Date ________________ Temperature: 9.30am_______ 11.30am______1:30______3.30_______

Child's Name

Time in

bed

Time

asleep

Time

awake

Staff

sign

Times checked:

Please ensure that you record the actual time you physically checked the

children Time

Time

Time

Time

Time

Time

Time

Time

Time

Time

Comments;

Sanitisation of beds completed by

____________________________________

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STAFF RATIO POLICY

Rationale:

This policy is to be read in conjunction with the Non-Contact Time Policy. Li’l Champs is

committed to ensuring that staff have the opportunity to plan, implement and evaluate

a curriculum that is designed to enhance children’s learning experiences, and respond

to children’s strengths and interests, it is however important that this allocation of time

does not interfere with meeting the budgeted funding bands.

Non-contact time refers to time off the floor not working with children. This could be for

programme planning and assessment purposes, attending meetings, or professional

development opportunities or portfolio preparation. To ensure centres are staffed so

that teachers have an opportunity to undertake non-contact time, Li’l Champs allows

staffing levels in excess of those provided for in the regulations.

Purpose:

• To ensure that centres continue to meet regulatory staffing ratios whilst still enabling

teachers to engage in non-contact time where appropriate.

• Enables better staffing levels, when non-contact time is not being undertaken.

Guidelines:

It is important that centres balance the objective of providing non-contact time against

ensuring the centre meets the optimum funding band and avoiding times that centres

are overstaffed.

Staffing ratios will at all times meet the Ministry of Education ratios, being 1:5 for

children under 2 year and 1:10 for children over 2 year.

In order for staff to plan and implement the curriculum, non-contact time should

ideally be available whilst not breaching staffing ratios.

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Things to consider are:

• What funding band has been set for your centre to achieve?

• What annual leave is likely to impact that objective?

• What planned meetings, professional development, other centre visits, and non-

contact is likely to impact that objective?

• Should the above planned activities disrupt your ability to meet your funding

band, what can you rearrange or cancel in order to ensure you meet the funding

band? Could you offer paid planning and assessment time outside of ‘normal’

working hours? [please note this should only be offered if a funding band will be

protected by using this option]

Registered Teacher Rostering

The funding bands are reached by the rostered staff hour count of registered

teachers. In order to reach your targeted funding band, you will need to ensure

that:

• You are working on funding right from the start of a funding cycle;

• You are using qualified relievers when you can; and

If the centre is unable to comply with this policy they are to apply for an

exemption to staffing ratio’s providing an explanation for any non-compliance,

proposal for achieving compliance and an alternative staffing ratio.

Schedule A:

If your service was licensed under the 1998 regulations, the current adult: child

ratios are set out in

Ages of children

attending

Number of

children

attending

Minimum

staffing pre

regulations

ALL UNDER 2 1-4 1

5 1

6-8 2

8-10 2

11-12 3

13-15 3

16-20 4

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21-25 5

ALL OVER 2 1-6 1

7-16 2

17-20 2

21-24 3

25-30 3

31-32 4

33-40 4

41-50 5

MIXED 1-3 1

* It is not expected centres will increase staffing numbers where occupancy is

only marginally above occupancy noted. Staffing at regulated levels is

appropriate in such situations.


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STATEMENTS / EXPLAINATIONS

The allocation of resources / funds will be in line with the following

1. Could be a part of or in line with individual appraisal goals

2. Could be an area of interest

3. Could be a need of the centre

4. Spends are within monthly allocated budget

5. If spends are outside of monthly allocate budget the centre manager will apply to

the owners for extra funding

6. Recognised through a self-review

Our parents are involved in the review of all policies. Staff will have the opportunity to

review policy for 2 weeks. These are available at reception and we are also able to give

photocopies upon parent request. Any changes will be communicated through the

monthly newsletter or via email.

Dated: 27.05.2018

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SUPERVISION OF CHILDREN

Rationale: To ensure that staff supervise children at all times while attending the centre. To promote the health, safety and well-being of the children at all times. To ensure staff/child ratios are met and maintained and that staff know their roles for supervision and implement them. 1. Staff/child ratios will be met and maintained according to the license and Early Childhood Regulations 2008 schedule 3. At all times while children are attending, they will be supervised by a person responsible and there will be a person’s responsible for every 50 children or part thereof. 2. Children will be in the sight of an adult at all times. Staff will be rostered to ensure the main playroom, outdoor playground and toileting areas have staff rostered to adequately supervise children in these areas as required, to meet the needs of the children and promote their well-being, health and safety. 3. Children must be supervised at all times while eating. 4. At any time in the centre programme while children have free access and movement between indoor/outdoor areas, a minimum of one staff member will be on duty in each area as children access these. 5. Any equipment used for balancing; climbing, jumping that is over 600mm high will be set up on a suitable safety surface. [with a fall zone not less than 1.5m] see playground fall zone information in the compliance section. 6. Children should be supervised at all times while they are going to sleep. 7. Children will not have access to food or liquid while they are resting. [refer sleeping children policy] 7. A child who becomes unwell during the day will be isolated in the area provided for this purpose and will always be supervised until the child’s parents arrive. 8. Breaks for educators will be scheduled to enable proper supervision of children and to ensure that ratios are always maintained. When staff are on a break they are not to be counted in ratio. 9 During an incident, accident or First Aid treatment, staff will always maintain supervision of all children in the centre and will direct or re-direct centre activities as necessary. 10 Educators involved in supervision must not leave their children unsupervised under any circumstances unless relieved by another educator. 11 Ideally relieving staff should not be left to supervise an area alone, especially the outside area.

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12 At no time will children be released from the centre unless the person collecting the child is noted on the enrolment form, there is a letter signed by the parent or person who has day to day care for the child authorising this or it has been authorised on the daily sign in sheet by the person who has day to day care for that child and the person is 14 years or older. 13 In the event of a child not being picked up by the end of licensing hours. Staff need to remain with that child at the centre and endeavour to contact the alternative emergency persons. If no one is available staff need to contact the Centre Manager. The Centre manager will need to decide at what stage the policy will be called, considering any known emergencies that may be occurring within the region or any personal circumstances of the family. The police are obligated to collect the child however they may defer this action for some hours to give the parents / whanau time to arrive. For staff safety, there should be 2 staff members present. References: ECE regs 2008 [44, 58(1)B ] Sleeping children policy Supervised Early childhood playground and equipment standards SNZ HB.2.2006


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TEETHING POLICY

RATIONALE

Teething can be a large part of development and life for infants and toddlers. This can have a significant impact on our programme and the children and teachers in the environment. A supportive partnership between parents and teachers is important to minimise any negative experiences for children.

TE WHĀRIKI


Reference – ECE Regulations 2008. Reg 46 HS26, HS28

PROCEDURES

Teachers will administer pain relief for children in accordance with our Medicines Policy. However, paracetamol, pamol/paracare will only be administered for a 24‐hour period before clearance from a doctor is requested to rule out the possibility that such pain relief could be masking the symptoms of something more severe.

Teachers require open communication with parents to ensure information regarding what pain relief has been administered to children prior to their attendance each day.

In cases where the pain from teething is so intense it impacts on the child’s ability to fully participate in the programme, the Centre Manager reserves the right to request a parent keep their child at home until they are well.

Note: Also, please see our Medicines Policy

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TOILETING POLICY

RATIONALE

At Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs we recognise that toilet learning is an important part of a child’s development. In order to support the natural development of toileting we prefer to give children time to lead their own toilet learning and do not place pressure on children to be using the toilet.

We are not in a rush for any child to learn how to toilet themselves. A child’s ability to toilet themselves does not affect how they are viewed by teacher or how the child participates in the programme.

TE WHĀRIKI

Well‐being – Goal 1. Children experience and environment where their health is promoted.

PROCEDURES

Children need to not only know when they have wet or soiled themselves, are wetting or soiling themselves, but also what it feels like before they need to go to the toilet.

We recognise that the child’s home and Centre are different environments, a child’s interest in toileting at home may be recognised before the child is interested in toileting at the Centre. Teachers will respect the difference between environments and support how the child would like to toilet at the Centre.

Teachers will follow the child’s interest and give opportunity for children to use the toilet.

Teachers will communicate with parents if their child has been interested in the toilet, or what has happened regarding toileting throughout the day.

Teacher will communicate with parents about how toileting is going at home and give guidance to parents regarding how toileting is going in the Centre and if the child still requires nappies to be available just in case.

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TRANSITION POLICY

Rationale:

To ensure happy, safe and appropriate transitions which will meet the individual needs of

all children, their parents and whanau.

Procedure:

Transition from home to Centre

Staff will liaise with parents on the amount of pre-start visits that are required, (ideally,

these being a minimum of three). During this time staff will undertake room inductions,

discuss routines, procedures and enrolment conditions of the centre.

A full Family/Whanau induction will take place where the Child’s routines will be discussed;

and parents understanding of their responsibility of enrolment will be ascertained at this

time. All visits will need a significant family member to stay with the child during the visits.

Transition between rooms

There should be shared understandings of the procedure for akonga and their whanau

transitioning between rooms. These procedures should be

flexible enough to meet the individual needs of akonga and their whanau.

• Whanau consultation will occur before transitions begin.

• The staff in the current child’s room with consult with the teachers in the new room,

discussing the child’s strengths, interests and learning styles and any developmental or

behavioural concerns that have been identified and the strategies in place to support the

child and whanau.

• New teachers being informed of any allergies, dietary requirements and medications that

the child has.

• New teachers being informed of settling routines (e.g. on arrival, sleep comforters, etc).

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Children do not have to move rooms when they turn 2 years old or 3 years old, it can be a

longer process depending on the child and numbers in the other room.

Transition of children to school

The Centre can facilitate the transition of children to Primary School through implementing

a holistic approach and follow the stepping stones to school program guidelines.

Stepping Stone to School

Teachers/educators build relationships across and between members of the learning

community (akonga, parents, family/ whanau, ECE teachers/educators, school teachers,

local community):

o Parent/whanau transition information events occur regularly. Teachers from prospective

local schools collaboratively contribute to these evenings.

o Teachers/educators have established and maintain regular constructive ongoing liaison

with Principals and year one teachers from local schools.

o Reciprocal, regular school/centre visits are scheduled between centres and year 0

classrooms.

o Teachers/educators have developed information to assist parents/whanau in selecting a

school for their child. Teachers/educators should have knowledge of the schools and the

unique features they provide.

Teachers/educators demonstrate effective management of the learning setting:

o Teachers/educators implement strategies that foster collaborative approaches to

learning.

o Akonga are encouraged to dialogue, critique, compare, negotiate, hypothesise and

problem solve through small group work.

o Teachers/educators facilitate in-depth investigations where akonga are supported to

make decisions about the direction of investigations.

o Teachers/educators provide the resources they require to participate in the learning

environment.

o Outcomes of the investigation are informed by an evaluative process involving the

learning community and this utilised for continuous improvement.

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Akonga/parents/whanau and teachers/educators are viewed as collaborators in the

process of learning:

o Teachers/educators have knowledge of the NZ School Curriculum. Alignment between

learning dispositions and key competencies shapes planning, assessment and evaluation

of the programme.

o Teachers/educators highlight the alignment between learning dispositions and key

competencies occurring in the programme to the learning community, especially to

akonga.

Teachers/educators teach through a socio-cultural framework embedding literacy and

mathematical learning and knowledge in a meaningful and authentic way:

o Learning literacy and numeracy is evident in the centre philosophy and

teachers/educators practice.

o Teachers/educators plan learning environments that facilitate, encourage and provide

opportunities for akonga to incorporate literacy and numeracy into their everyday lives.

o Teachers/educators implement intentional teaching strategies and techniques to

support literacy and numeracy outcomes for akonga (oral, visual and written).

o Teachers/educators plan pathways to develop akonga literacy knowledge and skills.

Evaluations of literacy and numeracy learning outcomes are visible in assessment

documentation.

o The teachers/educators inform the learning community of the literacy and numeracy

occurring in the centre curriculum. They are confident to articulate to the learning the

teaching strategies and environments.

Teachers/caregivers providing akonga with opportunities to promote connectedness

between centre and school learning environments:

o Transition to school displays are presented at akonga level. Teachers/educators utilise

these displays as a visual learning prompt to facilitate discussion, association,

familiarisation about expectations of school life.

Graduation

• Whanau will be invited to attend a graduation ceremony on the child’s 5th birthday or before leaving for school.

• The child will dress in the graduation gown

• The child will be given the following graduation pack i. Certificate

ii. Report Card

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iii. Portfolio

iv. Art work

v. Name tags and labels

vi. A farewell card and or birthday card

Reviewed Date: 08.10.2018

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TRANSPORTING CHILDREN POLICY

Rationale: To ensure the safety of children and the driver while children are being collected or dropped off by Li’l Champs involvement program. Procedure:

- At no time will staff transport children for whom they have not received written parental

- consent for unless in a medical or civil defence emergency.

- Children are not permitted to travel in the front seat if the car is fitted with an airbag – unless they are over 148cm tall. Children must remain seated at all times while the vehicle is

- moving.

- All children will be restrained in safety approved over the shoulder child restraints as required by clause 7.6 of the land transport (Road User) rule 2004.

- Only drivers holding a full driver’s licence will be permitted to drive the participation vehicle

- All vehicles must carry a standard first aid kit

- The driver must have a cell phone and contact details and emergency contacts for each child being transported.

- At no time will children be left alone in the vehicle – the parent / guardian must bring the child to the car and be responsible for strapping the children into the child restraint – at this stage the van driver must check that the child is strapped in correctly and sign the in / out sheet as confirmation of this check. The parent / guardian must collect the child from the car at the end of the session.

- Parent / guardian / must sign the child into the care of the driver at the beginning of the session and then out of the care of the driver at the end of the session – this form will then be attached to the centre sign in/out sheet at the end of the day and kept for auditing purposes.

- The child’s enrolment form must have the names of the staff who are authorised by the parent / guardian to collect or drop off children – this can be entered on a separate sheet and attached to the enrolment form so long as the parent / guardian has signed this form. Only those staff who have parent authority are able to collect and drop off the children in the vehicle – see Appendix 1

- The staff member/ driver of the vehicle will sign the children onto the centre sign in sheet upon arrival back at the centre and sign them out at the end of the session. A log of who the driver was for each journey must be kept.

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- If upon dropping the child back to their residence there is no authorised adult present to collect them, then an attempt is to be made to locate the parent / caregiver or an emergency contact person by phone. If no one is available, then the child needs to be returned to the centre and further contact needs to be made from there. Staff may wish to enact the late fee rule as per the fee schedule.

- If at any time, there are concerns for child safety in the home environment the driver needs to write up an incident report in conjunction with the Centre Manager - if necessary refer to the Child Protection policy. Remember safety for your children in the vehicle is a priority

- All vehicles are to be regularly serviced and maintained by the centre manager. Any maintenance over $500.00 will need to be approved by the centre owner before any work goes ahead.

- All drivers transporting children will need to have completed a driver’s agreement – see Appendix 4. A copy of their current New Zealand Drivers Licence and all signed agreements are to be kept on file at the centre.

- All required documentation is to be completed at the appropriate time.

- Ratios for the van are 1:6 as the van is not being used as an excursion, but for the purposes of collecting and dropping off children.

Documentation to be completed

- Daily sign in and out sheets to be completed by the parent at pick up and drop off times.

- Daily check sheet completed prior collection or drop off of children, to ensure that the vehicle is safe to transport children – see Appendix 2 or 2a [2a is all the checks for the week on one page]

- Monthly report – see Appendix 3 If the vehicle is involved in an accident/incident:

- Ensure that the children are safe and unhurt. Take the necessary action to ensure their safety wellbeing at all times. Seek medical advice if required.

- Once children are safe then collect the following information from the other party

- Name and permanent address of driver

- Name and permanent address of owner

- Vehicle type

- Vehicle registration number

- Their insurance company or broker

- Their precise words of ‘admission of guilt’ if they do this

- Name and permanent address of any witnesses

- Report the circumstances to the owners of the centre to arrange a claim form. DO NOT ADMIT LIABILITY as this is the insures prerogative acting on your behalf.

- All accidents/incidents must be recorded and sent to the owner within 2 days of the accident/incident happening.

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Appendix 1 As part of the Li’l Champs vision to ensure that all children have access to quality education and care this centre ________________________________ [centre name] is able to provide your child with a pick up and drop off service to and from the above centre. In order for your child to be able participate in this programme you are required to complete the following details that will form part of the enrolment agreement. I _____________________________________ [parent / guardian name] give permission for my child __________________________________ [child’s name] to be collected from and returned to _______________________________________________________________ [address] on the days that they are enrolled to attend the above named centre. These days and times are: Pick up time Drop off time Monday _________ _________ Tuesday _________ _________ Wednesday _________ _________ Thursday _________ _________ Friday _________ _________ For my child to participate in this programme I acknowledge that I:

- Will have my child ready for pick up by the times stated above and that I will bring my child out to the vehicle [the driver is not permitted to leave the vehicle unattended at any time]

- Will be responsible for ensuring that my child is buckled safely into the car seat

- Will be at home to receive my child after the session finishes at the times stated above and that I will collect my child from the vehicle

- Will sign my child in and out each day on the form provided by the driver

- Authorise the following staff to transport my child in the participation vehicle – [please note that all these drivers have a full driver’s licence] and to sign them in and out of the centre.

___________________________________ ________________________________ ___________________________________ ________________________________ ___________________________________ ________________________________

- Agree to pay the late penalty fee as stated on the fee schedule if I am not available to receive my child at the end of the session

- I agree to contact the centre on 2772556 or 0226487301 or 0212630412 if my child is sick or unavailable to be collected

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Signed parent / Guardian ______________________________ Date__________________ Signed Centre Manager _______________________________ Date __________________ Appendix 2 Daily Van Check List – Please Tick You are an Authorised Driver and have a current New Zealand Driver’s License _ Check car seats are attached/bolted into the seat

Check petrol Check indicators and brake lights are working Check tires have enough air Check that parents have buckled their children into the car seats correctly after each pick up Please ensure that this is recorded on the sign in and out sheet Check and make sure you have your daily log book, first aid kit and AA car/information stored in the van Check you have a current WOF and Registration Check to see if your folder has the following documentation Copy of cell phones numbers and centre numbers of the centre manager and all the people responsible for the van run Copy of emergency contacts for children Copy of the transporting children policy is signed by parents and the centre

manager Copy of van route you will take when collecting children and the map directions for this route Daily Van sign in and out sheets for parents to sign Up to date emergency contact list

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Van drivers Name: ____________________ Signed:_____________________ Date:_______________ Any actions required: _________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Appendix 2a Week beginning ___________________

Daily Checks Monday Tuesday Wednesday

Thursday Friday

You are an Authorised Driver and have a current New Zealand Driver’s License

Check car seats are attached/bolted into the seat

Check Petrol

Check indicators and brake lights are working

Check tires have enough air

Check and make sure you have your daily log book, first aid kit and AA car/information stored in the van

Check you have a current WOF and registration

Check to see if your folder has the following documentation

- Copy of cell phones number and centre number of the centre manager and all the people responsible for the van run

- Copy of emergency contacts for children

- Copy of the transporting children in vehicle policy signed by parents and the centre manager.

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- Copy of van route you will take when collecting children and the map direction for this route

- Daily van sign in and out sheets for parents to sign

Any corrective actions needed

Van Driver signature

Appendix 3 Monthly Report

Completed by: Month

Number of children on van

Mon AM

Mon PM

Tues AM

Tues PM

Wed AM

Wed PM

Thurs AM

Thurs PM

Fri AM

Fri PM

Total number of children accessing the van

Vehicle

New Enrolments for the van this month: __________________

Occupancy last month Occupancy this month

Community groups involved Total number of children from this service

Any Incident Reports Any Accidents

Yes / No How many? Yes / No How many

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Comments: (Record here any issues around drop off and pick up times, servicing required and any other issues). ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Appendix 4

COMPANY MOTOR VEHICLE DRIVERS AGREEMENT INCLUDING LIMITED PERSONAL USE

The Driver Agrees to:

• Provide the Company with a photocopy of his/her driver’s license prior to being authorised

to operate a vehicle and advise the Company immediately their license is suspended or

forfeited for any reason.

• Drive the Company motor vehicle with due regard for traffic regulations, safety of

pedestrians, other road users and Company property.

• To ensure that the vehicle is only driven by him/herself, another fully licensed Employee.

Drivers must hold a current New Zealand Driver’s License or a License that permits driving

of a motor vehicle in New Zealand.

• Not use handheld mobile phones whist driving.

• Not drive a Company motor vehicle whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Not carry illegal drugs or substances in the Company car.

• No smoking in a company motor vehicle

• Ensure that the vehicle always has a current registration and warrant of fitness and is

serviced in accordance with manufacturers specifications and recommendations.

• Maintain the vehicle in a clean, neat condition and garage where possible, or in a location

where the vehicle is unlikely to be damaged.

• Repair at own cost damage arising from reckless or deliberate misuse of a company motor

vehicle.

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• Pay parking infringement notices and traffic violation fines associated with the use of the

vehicle.

• Not use the Company motor vehicle for private hire or reward.

• Use the Company provided fuel card only for the purpose that it is intended.

• Report any accident or theft from or of a vehicle immediately to the manager and in writing

within 24 hours.

• I understand that this vehicle is only for business purposes and may not be used for personal

use at any time.

• I understand that if I do not adhere to this agreement, the Company may at its discretion,

remove the personal use privileges.

I _________________________________ understand the above Drivers Agreement and I

have read, understood and agree to the conditions contained in both the Drivers Agreement

and the full motor vehicle policy.

Name: ___________________________________

Signature: ________________________________

Date: ____________________________________

Driver’s License No: _________________________

Expiry Date: ______________________________

Photo copy attached: Yes / No

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Treaty of Waitangi

Rationale:

Li’l Champs acknowledges the unique place of Maori as Tangata Whenua and that every

child in New Zealand has the right to a rich bi-cultural experiences that reflect the heritages

of both parties (Maori and Pakeha) to the Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi).

Aim:

We as early childhood education providers have a part to play in protecting and supporting

Te Reo and Tikanga Maori . We will support the development of individuals, management,

and teacher’s knowledge, which will assist us to provide a bi-cultural curriculum for

children attending our centre. We will work at protecting and supporting the revitalisation

of the Maori language - Te Reo and culture -Tikanga.

Teaching teams responsibility:

All teachers will provide a bi-cultural programme in their centres.

This involves reflecting on and discussing what bi-culturalism means in their centre, and how

in practise they work as a team to achieve this.

Teaching teams will access opportunities for knowledge advancement to further increase

current understanding of the intent of The Treaty of Waitangi, its implications for teaching

practice and the centre curriculum. Individual development goals will be identified and

addressed through the

appraisal system. Families within the centre will be encouraged to increase their

understanding and share their knowledge of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi),

Tikanga Maori (Maori protocol and customs), and Te Reo Maori (Maori language).

Practical tips for maintain a bi-cultural practice:

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By making a commitment to bi-culturalism, we acknowledge Te Tiriti o Waitangi (The Treaty

of Waitangi) as the founding document of Aotearoa/New Zealand, and we are working

towards providing an environment which reflects the dual heritage (Maori and Pakeha) of

Aotearoa/New Zealand for our children.

In practical terms we aim to provide an environment which respects and promotes Maori

culture, thereby making our centre a welcoming early childhood facility for Maori whãnau

and, at the same time imparting knowledge of the culture to non- Maori families. Therefore,

Te Reo Maori (Maori language) Tikanga Maori (protocol and customs) and Taha Maori

(Maori side or way of doing things) will be promoted.

- most parts of the body should not meet things used for food.

- Tea towels are not to be hung over shoulders; clothes should not be placed on tables or benches where food is prepared or eaten. In the same way it is not appropriate to sit on any table or bench.

- Kitchen and bedding laundry should not be washed in the same wash

- Food stuff of any kind is not to be used for play (although play dough and corn flour are considered an exception).

- Separate cloths or mops are used for: cleaning food surfaces, cleaning toilets, cleaning basins, and cleaning floors.

- The head is considered sacred or tapu to Maori, so it is important to avoid touching the head of another person. Pillows are for laying the head on only, while cushions are for sitting on.

- Children should not be placed head to foot of each other for sleeping purposes

- Do not step over other people as this is considered offensive

- Combs, flannels and other items used for the body are washed in an appropriate sink or basin. Particularly, they are not washed in the sink used for food.

- Te Reo Maori and waiata will be heard and made visible throughout the Environment

- If centres give thanks for food this could be in both Te Reo Maori as well as English

- The use of natural resources e.g. shells, flax (harakeke), leaves in play areas is encouraged and respect for the natural environment fostered.

- Teaching resources will reflect a bi-cultural environment.

Date review: 04.05.2015

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UNIFORM POLICY

1. Policy Principles The Company clothing policy has been set up to establish appropriate dress standards throughout centres for all staff. The uniform standard has been designed for the easy identification of staff members for children and parents and the promotion of a professional and consistent image.

The appearance and colour of items worn on the lower half of the body as trousers, skirts, belts, socks and shoes, whilst not provided by the Company, is also governed under this policy to ensure the considerable investment in providing a professional standard of dress is maintained. 2. Issue & Allocation of Uniform All staff will be issued with Li’l champs clothing and must wear it during their centre’s opening hours. Exceptions may be made for staff who are unable to wear their normal uniform due to pregnancy, however complimentary clothes to the normal uniform are expected to be worn.

For details of the types and quantities of uniform items allocated upon first issue and then the annual replacement quantities, see:

Appendix A – Allocation Guidelines Appendix B – Uniform Apparel Items Replacement items are on an ‘as needs’ basis, up to the quantities shown.

It is our intention to ensure that all staff are presented appropriately and represent the organisation professionally. So in the case where a staff member has uniform items that do not meet the expected condition expectations and has already used their replacement allocation for that year, the Company may direct them to purchase replacement items in order to meet appearance expectation

3. Logo’s

Each top is to be embroidered with the Centre’s specific logo.

4. Care of Company Issued Uniform

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All staff are responsible for the washing and care of all uniform items. Employees are expected to wash uniform items as required in order to present themselves at work each day in a professional and appropriate manner. 5. Bottoms Items of clothing provided by Li’l Champs are tops and jacket only. Centre employees are responsible for the purchase and care of ‘bottoms.

Bottoms may be trousers, skirts or shorts. All are to be black and in good condition; without patches, tears or frayed edges. Jeans are acceptable so long as they meet the colour and condition expectations.

Skirt length must be of enough length to remain professional when crouching and bending while working with children. Mini-skirts are not acceptable. 6. Hats In accordance with our Sun Protection Policy, brimmed hats are included in the Uniform supplied by the Company. These are to be worn outside as per the Sun Protection Policy.

Hats (excluding headwear worn for cultural reasons or items being worn for a centre specific event), are not to be worn inside. 7. Thermal Tops Thermal tops worn under the Company provided items in cooler months are permitted but at the employees own cost.

If worn, these are to be in theme with the top’s colour or black to match the bottoms being worn. These are to be maintained in good condition, without holes, runs or frayed edges showing. 8. Shoes / Footwear All footwear must be black or dark in colour and professional in appearance. Footwear should be comfortable and practical, have minimal heel size and be secured on the foot. High-heels, Jandals, flip-flops etc are not acceptable; these types are not considered professional nor are they safe for use when working with children.

9. Company Property

All Company issued clothing will remain the property of Li’l Champs and if an employee leaves, all uniform items issued within the last 6-months, must be returned to the centre. 10. Other Items Affecting Professional Appearance Accessories: Belts, socks etc should be complimentary to the main clothing items, normally being black or dark in colour. Sun-glasses: Are not to be worn inside

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Jewellery: Jewellery that may pose a hazard in the instance that it is grabbed by a child and could cause injury to the wearer (e.g. hanging ear-rings, facial studs) are not permitted. Other hanging jewellery (e.g. some necklaces) are not recommended and are worn at the employee’s own risk should a child grab and break it. Body Art: Tattoos may cause offense to others and depending on the design and size, is expected to be covered appropriately while at work in centres. 10. Ordering Ordering procedures are to be advised separately. 11. Relievers Due to the nature of employees in a Reliever position, the company will supply a centre uniform shirt to wear for the day. This must be placed in the wash after each shift.


Appendix A – Clothing Allocation Guidelines Working ≥ 4 days/week

Working ≤ 3 days/week

Centre Staff First Issue Replacement First Issue Replacement

Polo Shirt 3 x 3 x annually 2 x 2 x annually

Polar Fleece Jacket 1 x 1 x 2-yearly 1 x 1 x 2-yearly

Brimmed Hat 1x 1 yearly 1x 2 yearly

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VISITORS POLICY

Rationale:

When centre staff are approached to allow visitors into a centre, the overall impact must be considered. The visit should enhance the programme and in no way detract from the children’s learning. The term ‘Visitors’ applies to people from outside the usual lines of contact and does not apply to regular providers of centre services e.g. support agencies. Guidelines: Each request will be judged on its merits and any decision will be made in consultation with the centre staff concerned. The Centre Manager has the right to refuse entry to visitors. This will be the basis upon which any further action is taken. • All visitors to the centre must immediately identify themselves to the Centre Manager or senior staff member • All visitors must sign the visitor’s book and be made aware of any identified hazards of the centre. Visitors must also note time in and out, company affiliation, and reason for visit. • It must be ensured that the visits cause as little disruption to the centre as possible. During child contact times teachers are involved in teaching duties. Visitors are asked to be mindful of this and arrange a suitable time with staff to engage in discussion and ask any questions they have of the centre. • The taking of photographs of children and use of video equipment is forbidden unless permission has been granted by individual parents and the Centre Manager. Any such material must not be used for commercial publicity or advertising. • At no stage will a visitor be left alone with the children. Student Teachers: From time to time there may be student teachers in your centre. All students are police checked on admission to their Education Training Facility – however to ensure their safety and that of the children's – at no time will the student be: • Left alone in charge of children • Allowed to change nappies. • Be counted in ratio • Permitted to administer medication to children Please ensure that you inform your families if you have students or known visitors in your centre. Review date: 22.06.2018

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BABY-SITTING POLICY

RATIONALE

Our Centres provide children and their families with qualified, dedicated and committed people who are deserving of their profession as teachers. Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs acknowledges that some families do not have relatives or friends living close by to help them with the care of their children outside of Centre opening times. It is not our wish to prohibit our teachers from earning extra cash, however we do see baby‐sitting as a side‐step in our quest for professional status. The following procedures are intended to help ensure that there is no confusion regarding the separate roles of teacher and baby‐sitter.

TE WHĀRIKI

Belonging – Goal 4. Parents and Teachers experience an environment where they know the limits and boundaries of acceptable behaviour.

PROCEDURES

Parents of attending children wishing to ask for a teacher's employment outside of working hours must read and understand this policy before arrangements are made.

Arrangements are to be made outside Centre opening hours.

Parents are not to discuss any Centre issues or concerns with the teacher while baby‐sitting. (See our Complaints Procedure if necessary)

Under no circumstances will unprofessional or inappropriate information sharing be tolerated. Confidentiality is paramount.

Teachers who do choose to work outside of Centre hours must not allow this to affect their primary job. The Centre Manager will be called on to decide if this is the case.

Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs will not be held accountable for any issues that may arise from work (including baby‐sitting) outside of Centre.

Signed permission is to be obtained if teachers are required to take a child out of the Centre. This permission must state where and when the child is to be taken, by whom, and that Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs accepts no responsibility for this arrangement.

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BEHAVIOUR GUIDANCE POLICY

RATIONALE

At Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs, teachers are always required to model pro‐social skills. Respect, affection, acceptance and self‐confidence are our daily goals for empowering each child. Our philosophy is that each child has unique individual potential which requires nurturing through effective and gentle guidance.

Reference – ECE Regulations 2008. Reg 43. C10

TE WHĀRIKI

Belonging – Goal 4. Children experience an environment where they know the limits and boundaries of acceptable behaviour.

PROCEDURES

Strategies for guiding behaviour:

Re‐direction of behaviour, i.e., guide child towards more appropriate experience or play.

Promotion of peaceful problem‐solving strategies which empower children.

Always offer the child an explanation of why certain behaviour is unacceptable and inform the child of the desired behaviour.

Allowing the child time to correct his or her behaviour, i.e., by approaching the situation and asking; “what’s happening here?” Then offering choices to the child on how to try things differently.

Extremely inappropriate behaviour may result in ‘inclusionary time‐out’, i.e., if behaviour is distracting or upsetting other children, a teacher will go with the child and together they will have some time away from the other children.

Teachers will always talk calmly in terms of behaviour, describing the desired behaviour in simple terms. The child is given specific steps to transform the unacceptable behaviour. In this way, the behaviour, and not the child, will be rejected.

Teachers will work together with parents to individualise behaviour guidance plans where appropriate.

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Parents and teachers are encouraged to avoid unnecessary and baseless rules or limits, which may cause friction in adult‐child partnerships.

Parents are always notified of the occurrence of any extremely inappropriate behaviour and the methods used to modify it.

Teachers recognise the need for consistency in dealing with all inappropriate behaviour.

Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs is a “no hitting and no shouting” zone. This applies to children, teachers, parents, and visitors to the Centre.

A calm and peaceful manner will be used by the teachers as much as possible to ensure children’s dignity is upheld and respected.

Developmental understandings and expectations will be taken into consideration when dealing with behaviour guidance issues.

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BITING POLICY

RATIONALE

At Indigo Educare/Li’l Champs, the well‐being of all children enrolled is paramount. We also recognise that biting is a normal part of young children’s development. Consistency in behaviour guidance is essential for reducing the instances of this behaviour.


TE WHĀRIKI

Well‐being – Goal 3. Children experience an environment where they are kept safe from harm.

Communication – Goal 2. Children experience an environment where they develop verbal communication skills for a range of purposes.

PROCEDURES

Parents will always be informed if their child has bitten or was bitten.

Teachers will NOT give out the name of any other child involved. (See Privacy Policy)

When a child bites, our Behaviour Guidance Policy is followed. Teacher attention is mainly focused on the child who is the victim, in caring for them and ensuring they feel better.

Teachers will help children who have been bitten to increase their skills of assertiveness.

An explanation is given to the child who has bitten that such behaviour is not acceptable. They are encouraged to use words to communicate their feelings.

When a child is constantly biting a specific behaviour guidance strategy will be written by the teachers and discussed in consultation with specialists on board with the child’s parents. Teachers will try to recognise and prevent occurrences of biting, to reduce harm to others and help children learn more positive strategies for social engagement.

All teachers both permanent and casual will be made aware of behaviour guidance procedures for biting.

Much has been written about biting in pre‐school aged children, and all written information will be made available to parents who are concerned.

Parents will be reassured that biting is a normal behaviour in young children and everything is being done to reduce the instances of biting within the Centre. Teachers will give informal feedback to any concerned parent regarding the progress of specific behaviour guidance strategies in place. Specific time should be made for parents wishing to discuss

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with teachers in more depth.

If the specific behaviour guidance programme written by our teachers fails to reduce the instances of biting, we will seek outside help from specialist education services/in house Registered Psychologist who is our Managing Director.

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CARING FOR THE ENVIRONMENT POLICY

RATIONALE

At li’l Champs, we recognise the importance of caring for the environment. If children are immersed and involved from a very young age, they will develop a respectful disposition towards the world, helping to make it a better place to live.


TE WHĀRIKI

Exploration – Goal 4. Children experience an environment where they develop working theories for making sense of the natural, social, physical and material worlds.

PROCEDURES

Children will be involved as much as possible in our procedures and practices of caring for the environment.

We will ensure our outdoor environment includes the ‘wonder’ that nature has to offer. For example, we cultivate different varieties of flowers, vegetable, and native flora and fauna.

There will be dedicated recycling bins located around the Centre to ensure teachers and children can recycle where appropriate.

We will support any parent who wishes to use cloth nappies at the Centre.

To reduce power usage, we will employ strategies such as turning off lights when not in use, installing eco light bulbs and turning off computers at night. Also, keeping doors and windows closed if heating/ac is on.

To reduce paper waste, we employ strategies such as reusing non‐confidential office paper for art purposes, shredding paper for pets, and we will accept kind donations of paper/cardboard to re‐use.

If required, our Centre will employ landscaping contractors to help keep our gardens and outdoor environment looking beautiful.

Information about our environmental practices will be shared with parents and family via our website, noticeboards, emails, and newsletters, as well as through our daily conversations.

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HEALTH EXCLUSION POLICY

RATIONALE

Exclusion of children or adults with infectious diseases from Early Childhood Centres is sometimes necessary where there is potential for further spread of infection. Li’l Champs wishes to make its children and adults safe from infection by spelling out clearly under what circumstances a person should be excluded from the premises. Exclusion is at the Centre Manager’s discretion.

TE WHĀRIKI

Well‐being Goal 1. Children experience an environment where their health is promoted.

PROCEDURES

An adult exhibiting any of the following symptoms will be excluded from the Centre. A child suffering from any of the following symptoms will be isolated from the other children and required to leave the Centre AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. If a parent is unavailable or unable to remove their child soon enough, the emergency contact person listed on the child’s enrolment form may be contacted.

Parents are responsible for maintaining their correct contact details.

A child prescribed antibiotic for any illness should not return until at least 24 hours after treatment has started.

Any child requiring pain relief (including paracetamol and ibuprofen) should not attend the Centre. Exceptions will be made with regards to teething. See our Teething Policy.

A child will be sent home if the illness results in a greater care needed than Li’l Champs can reasonably provide without compromising the health and safety of the other children and teachers – for example, if the child has any of the following conditions: fever, persistent crying, difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, or other signs of possible severe illness.

No child with diarrhoea or vomiting will be allowed to attend Li’l Champs. Children must be symptom‐free for 48 hours and, in the case of diarrhoea, have had at least one normal bowel motion before returning to the Centre.

Rash with fever or behaviour change – until a doctor has determined that the illness is not a communicable disease.

Conjunctivitis – until the child has been treated and there is no discharge coming from the eyes.

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Tuberculosis – until the child’s physician or the Public Health Service advises that the child is non‐infectious.

Impetigo (School Sores) – until 24 hours after treatment has started. On return to the Centre, all lesions are to be covered.

Strep throat – until 24 hours after treatment has started, and until 24 hours after fever stops.

Head lice and/or nits (eggs) – until treatment has commenced and hair has been thoroughly combed. Public health recommends daily combing conditioner through hair for three weeks to ensure hair is free of nits/lice.

Thread worm – until treatment is completed.

Scabies – until treatment has been completed.

Chickenpox – until at least six days after onset of rash or earlier, and if all the lesions have dried and crusted.

Whooping cough – until five days of appropriate antibiotic therapy (the total course of the usual treatment is 14 days)

Mumps – until nine days after glands started swelling.

For some vaccine preventable diseases, there is a requirement to exclude unimmunised children who have had contact with a case of the disease. This applies to Measles, Diphtheria and Whooping cough, and would be arranged on the advice of the Medical Officer of Health.

Public Health Service exclusion guidelines will be followed for any conditions not listed above.

Individual health plans will be written in consultation with parents for children who suffer from Asthma, Epilepsy or specific allergies, or other medical conditions.

Li’l Champs reserves the right to request a medical certificate from a doctor before allowing a child to return from illness.

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HEALTH EXCLUSION INFECTIOUS DISEASES LIST

Disease Time between exposure and illness

How disease is spread Early Signs Infectious Period Action to be Taken

Chicken Pox

13‐17 days Coughing and sneezing Direct contact w/blisters

Fever and spots with a blister on the top of each spot

From up to 5 days before appearance of rash until lesions have crusted (5 days)

Exclude from service for one week from date of appearance of rash

Hepatitis A (notifiable)

15‐50 days 28‐30 days average

Food & water contaminated with faeces from an infected person, or direct spread

Nausea, stomach pains, general illness. Jaundice a few days later

From about 2 weeks before signs appear until about 1 week after jaundice starts

Exclude from service for 7 days from onset of jaundice

Hepatitis B (notifiable)

6 weeks‐6 months avg 2‐3 months

Close physical contact with blood or body fluids of infected person

Similar to hepatitis A Maybe for several weeks before signs appear, until weeks, months or years later

Exclude from service until well or as advised by GP

Measles (notifiable) (immunisation available)

Usually 10 days to onset 14 days to rash

Coughing and sneezing. Direct contact with nose/throat secretions of infected person

Running nose and eyes, cough fever and rash

From the first day of illness until 4 days after the rash begins

Exclude from service for at least 4 days from onset of rash

Meningitis (Meningococcal) (notifiable)

2‐10 days usually 3‐4 days

Close physical contact such as sharing food & drink, kissing, sleeping in same room

Generally unwell, fever, headache, vomiting, rash. Urgent treatment needed!

Until 24 hours after starting treatment with antibiotics

Exclude from service until well enough to return

Mumps (notifiable) (immunisation available)

Usually 16‐18 days Contact with infected saliva. Coughing, sneezing, kissing, sharing food & drink

Pain in jaw, then swelling in front of ear, fever

For one week before swelling appears until 9 days after

Exclude from service until 9 days after swelling develops, or until well, whichever is sooner

Ringworm

10‐14 days Contact with infected person's skin, clothes, or personal items. Also, via contaminated floors & shower stalls.

Flat spreading ring‐shaped lesions While lesions are present and while fungus persists on contaminated material

Restrict contact activities (e.g. gym, swimming) until lesions clear

Salmonella (notifiable)

6‐72 hours usually 12‐36 hrs

Undercooked food like meat & eggs; food or water contaminated with faeces from infected person or animal; direct spread from infected person or animal

Stomach pain, fever, diarrhoea Until well, possibly weeks or months after

Exclude form service until well with no further diarrhoea

Streptococcal sore throat

1‐5 days Usually contact with secretions of a strep sore throat

Headache, vomiting, sore throat For 24‐48 hrs after treatment with antibiotics started

Exclude from service until 24 hours after antibiotics started

Whooping cough (notifiable) (immunisation available)

4‐10 days Coughing. Adults and older children may pass on the infection to babies.

Running nose, persistent cough followed by “whoop”, vomiting, or breathlessness

If on antibiotics, until 5 days of treatment. If no antibiotics, for 3 weeks from the first signs

Exclude from service until 3 weeks from onset of coughing, or after 5 days of antibiotics

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Wash Down Procedure (for sick or soiled children)

First gather all required supplies:

pair of disposable latex gloves and a disposable wash cloth

clean towel for drying

change of clothes and two plastic bags with ties or seals

The Child Protection Policy must be observed: Have another adult in sight. (unless the child is your own).

Put on the latex gloves, and a face mask if illness is suspected.

Reassure the child if needed, explain clearly what is about to happen, and guide the child into the shower.

Remove child's soiled clothing and place inside the plastic bag.

Clean the child with warm water, using the shower hose and disposable wash cloth.

Remove gloves and leave inside the shower, along with the wash cloth.

Dry the child with a clean towel, and dress with fresh clothing.

Wash down the shower area and spray thoroughly with Germex solution to disinfect.

Dispose of the gloves and wash cloth securely into the Nappy Bin, place wet towels in the Laundry Bin.

WASH YOUR HANDS

Take the sealed plastic bag into the Office, for the parent to collect for laundering.

If the child is ill, isolate the child in the Office and make him/her as comfortable as possible. Notify a parent (or authorised contact) to come and collect the child, then fill in the Illness Register.

This procedure should always be prominently displayed on a wall beside the shower.

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Are you a Visitor?

Welcome to Our Centre

Please introduce yourself to one of the Teachers and let them know your reason for

visiting.

Please sign the Visitors Book make your-self Familiar with the Hazard list that is relevant to the

centre.

Please ensure you are not alone with a child at any time.

You are expected to behave in a responsible and professional manner while in the centre.


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LOCKDOWN POLICY

At Indigo Educare/ Lil Champs, we believe that the safety of children and staff in our school is paramount and takes every precaution to ensure the safety of all. We believe that the centre needs to be secured in an appropriate manner when dealing with a perceived or actual threat to the centre.

Rationale

Indigo Educare/ Lil Champs is committed to providing a safe and caring environment for children and staff. Therefore, the school has developed this procedure to respond to a perceived or actual threat to their centre community.

Introduction

A lockdown of the centre will be implemented any time children need to be contained and protected inside school buildings, for example;

• A chemical spill which could put students and staff at risk of toxic inhalation if allowed outside.

• A person on the school site who could pose the risk of a hostage situation.

• An armed or unarmed intruder inside the building.

In all these cases the Police or person in charge would request a lock‐down of the school to prevent putting children and staff in danger, separating them from the risk. The lock‐down may also help to prevent confusion, and to make it easier for staff to account for all children.

When the lock‐down signal is given, staff will go to their classroom doors, listening, and then looking for a sign of imminent danger. If it’s safe to do so, they will take in any children not already in a classroom, then close and lock the door and turn off the lights.

General Emergency Lock-Down Procedures

Communications 1. In the event of a critical incident requiring lock‐down, the person witnessing the incident must try to notify the school office so that the alarm can be raised. The office staff member receiving the incident call will notify the centre manager or centre owner (anyone who is onsite) . 2. The person in charge at the time of the incident will determine the need for a lock‐down and sound the appropriate signal of saying “LOCKDOWN” three times. 3. The emergency lock‐down will be announced by phone or email. The announcement will state the following;

“This is a LOCK‐DOWN” “This is not a fire drill” “Everyone is to stay in the room, remain seated and to keep calm and quiet”

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Procedure for Lock down

1 If the lock‐down is heard during morning tea or lunch time, children are to move directly to their classrooms as long as it is safe to do so.

o Teaching staff are to stay in or move to their classrooms immediately if it is safe to do so. o Support staff are to move promptly to the playground areas and direct children to their classrooms, if it is safe to do so. o The centre manager or centre owner is to lock all perimeter gates, if it is safe to do so. o The person in charge should stay in or move to the office area to facilitate the communication process.

2. If outside, children should proceed to the nearest classroom.

3. Staff need to be mindful that children from other classrooms may seek sanctuary in their classroom.

4. As soon as possible, lock the classroom and other doors.

5. Close and lock windows.

6. Close curtains.

7. Turn lights off and computer monitors.

8. Staff and children should stay away from windows and doors and remain low to the ground.

9. Everyone is to remain quiet.

10. Staff should not allow children to use the classroom phone if there is one available. It must be kept free for communications with the office.

11. Staff with mobile phones should ensure they are turned on, and should check them frequently for messages.

12. No one is to answer the door under any circumstances.

13. Staff should take a head count and obtain the name of every individual in the room.

14. Should the fire alarm sound, do not evacuate the building unless; o You have first‐hand knowledge that there is a fire in the building, or You have been advised by Police or the person in charge to evacuate the building.

15. Students and staff should stay where they are until official notification is provided by the person in charge or an identified Police Officer, that the lock‐down is over.

16. Where the lock‐down lasts an extended period of time or extend beyond normal centre hours, the person in charge or designated serious incident co‐ordinator should notify parents via local media and with the assistance of local Police.

17. In conjunction with local police, the person in charge or designated serious incident co‐ordinator should arrange for parents to pick children up from centre at a designated safe area.

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policies and procedures handbook - lilchamps

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