policy handbook july 2013 final

2 | P a g e

Contents Service Reference Numbers ................................................................................................................................... 4 Introduction ............................................................................................................................................................ 5 A Brief History ....................................................................................................................................................... 5 Children's Services Programs ................................................................................................................................. 6

Student and Voluntary Workers ......................................................................................................................... 8 Supervising Officer - Responsible Person .......................................................................................................... 9 Contact Staff Requirements ................................................................................................................................ 9

Our Vision, Mission and Values ........................................................................................................................... 10 Our Philosophy ................................................................................................................................................. 10

Day Care Policies ................................................................................................................................................. 12 Enrolments - Priority of access to vacant places............................................................................................... 12 Confidentiality/privacy policy statement .......................................................................................................... 13 Finances - Financial hardship .................................................................................................................... 15 Fee policy ......................................................................................................................................................... 16 Non-English speaking background policy ........................................................................................................ 18 Arrival and departure ........................................................................................................................................ 19 Collecting children from school ....................................................................................................................... 20 Transport procedures for child care children .................................................................................................... 21 Indisposed or absent staff ................................................................................................................................. 22 Attendance ........................................................................................................................................................ 23

Absenteeism.................................................................................................................................................. 23 Late collection .............................................................................................................................................. 23 Children who are not enrolled children ........................................................................................................ 23

Medical emergency ........................................................................................................................................... 24 Safety drills ....................................................................................................................................................... 25 Smoke detectors ................................................................................................................................................ 25 Emergency procedures...................................................................................................................................... 25 Supervision of children ..................................................................................................................................... 26 General Supervision ........................................................................................................................................ 26 Planning Supervision and Programming ....................................................................................................... 27 Guiding children’s behaviour ........................................................................................................................... 28 Behavioural intervention plan ........................................................................................................................... 29 Bullying in child care........................................................................................................................................ 29 Alcohol & drugs ............................................................................................................................................... 30 Abusive or violent behaviour towards staff and enrolled children ................................................................... 30 Health and safety .............................................................................................................................................. 31

Excursions .................................................................................................................................................... 31 Illness and infection ...................................................................................................................................... 32

3 | P a g e

Bathroom procedures .................................................................................................................................... 34 Hand washing policy .................................................................................................................................... 34 Medication .................................................................................................................................................... 35 Nutrition ....................................................................................................................................................... 36 Infant bottle feeds policy .............................................................................................................................. 38 Bottled breast milk policy ............................................................................................................................. 39 Celebrations policy ....................................................................................................................................... 39 Dental care policy ......................................................................................................................................... 40 Rest period .................................................................................................................................................... 41 Nursery furniture and equipment safety ....................................................................................................... 42 Sun protection/clothing ................................................................................................................................. 42 Children’s belonging’s policy ....................................................................................................................... 43 Occupational health and safety ..................................................................................................................... 43 Child protection ............................................................................................................................................ 44 Buildings equipment and environment, dangerous plants and animals ........................................................ 44 Dangerous products policy ........................................................................................................................... 45 Storage and use of dangerous chemicals, substances and equipment policy ............................................... 46 Minimising the use of potentially dangerous substances and objects without risking hygienic practices policy ............................................................................................................................................................ 48 Smoke free environment ............................................................................................................................... 49 Hygiene & food safety .................................................................................................................................. 50

License .............................................................................................................................................................. 53 Lost property..................................................................................................................................................... 53 Parents grievance procedure ............................................................................................................................. 54 Programs ........................................................................................................................................................... 55 Family communication policy .......................................................................................................................... 56 Interactions policy ............................................................................................................................................ 57 Electronic / media policy .................................................................................................................................. 58 Programs - Children with individual needs ...................................................................................................... 58 Programs – Anti bias/equity ............................................................................................................................. 59 Programs - Multicultural / religious beliefs policy ........................................................................................... 60 Environmental sustainability policy ................................................................................................................ 60 Parents participation / open door policy ........................................................................................................... 61 Records ............................................................................................................................................................. 61

Orientation Satisfaction Survey for New Parents ................................................................................................. 64 Special Diet Record .............................................................................................................................................. 66 Emergency Action Plan ........................................................................................................................................ 67

4 | P a g e

Service Reference Numbers Child Day Care Wembley Catherine McAuley Child Care 1-631-2900 Newman After School Care Program 1-631-5627 Child Day Care Heathridge James McAuley House 1-631-5666 Child Day Care Thornlie 1-BRG1J3 Child Day Care Seville Grove 1-BXS5ZZ Child Day Care Bedford 1-IQ1YOF

5 | P a g e

Introduction Welcome to Mercy Child Day Care Services.

We offer a range of services for children between the ages of 0 and 12 years.

This Handbook is intended to give families information about our Child Care Centres and Out of School Care Program and the policies regarding quality care for children of all ages.

We encourage families to participate in Centre activities in whichever way is most appropriate.

Feedback regarding services provided is highly valued and is welcomed at all times.

A Brief History In the early days of Western Australia, the Benedictine Monks were the first developers of the site on which the Centre now stands. As they planted their olive trees around Monger's Lake, they saw a resemblance to the Italian town of SUBIACO where St Benedict, centuries before, had built his hermitage. So they were the first to call this section of the "Swan River Colony" by the name of SUBIACO.

The first Sisters of Mercy who came to live and work on this site in 1876 were caring for orphan boys. From 1901 till the present day the Sisters of Mercy have been continuously engaged in the care of children and families on this campus. Though the names have changed from St Joseph's Orphanage, St Vincent's Foundling Home and St Gerard's Hospital for Unmarried Mothers, to the present title Catherine McAuley Family Centre, the thrust remains - to offer support and quality services to individuals and families in need. Over recent years other services for care of the elderly have been added.

Today the Centres are operated by a Lay Board of Governance, who account for the operation of all sections of the Centre to the Congregational Council.

In the spirit of Catherine McAuley, who founded the Sisters of Mercy, the Centre aims to respond to new and emerging needs that people experience in our society.

6 | P a g e

Children's Services Programs MercyCare offer a variety of services to children and their families.

CHILD DAY CARE – WEMBLEY - Full time or Part time care

The Centre provides programs for 138 children between the ages of 6 weeks and twelve years. State Government Licensing requirements regulate the numbers of children in each age group as follows:

0 months - 2 years 48 children

2 years - 3 years 50 children


Federal Government Funding guidelines give Priority of Access to:

1. Children at Risk

2. Working/Studying Parents

3. Any other child

Long Day Care operates from 7:30am to 5:30pm Monday to Friday, 51 weeks per year. Office hours are 7.30am - 5:30pm.

CHILD DAY CARE – HEATHRIDGE – Full time and Part time care.

The Centre provides programs for 38 children between the ages of 6 weeks and six years. State Government Licensing requirements regulate the numbers of children in each age group as follows:

0 months – 2 years 8 children

2 – 3 years 10 children

3 – 6 years 20 children

This program operates from 7.30am to 6.00pm Monday to Friday, 51 weeks per year.

7 | P a g e

CHILD DAY CARE - THORNLIE - Full time or part time care






CHILD DAY CARE - SEVILLE GROVE - Full time or part time care






CHILD DAY CARE—BEDFORD - Full time, part time and Before and After School care

The Centre provides programs for 120 children between the ages of 6 weeks and 12 years in Long Day Care. State Government Licensing requirements regulate the numbers of children in each age group as follows:





AFTER SCHOOL CARE (Newman College)

The program operates for 30 pre-primary and school age children 5 - 12 years of age on the Marian Campus. The Centre picks up the children from Lavalla Campus in their Centre owned buses. The children are offered a recreational program from "pick up" until 6.00pm every week day afternoon.

8 | P a g e

The After School Care program operates each day of school terms.

BEFORE SCHOOL CARE (Newman College)

Operates each school day for pre-school and school age children 5 - 8 years of age. Parents will bring their children between 7:30 - 8:15am to Catherine McAuley Child Care. The centre owned bus will deliver children to the Marian Campus.

Student and Voluntary Workers

Having students and voluntary workers within the Service helps to inform the community about our program and the value of the work we do. It also is a way of obtaining feedback and new ideas. Students and voluntary workers are welcomed to the Service however the children’s care and safety are our first priority.

No student or voluntary worker is to be left alone with a child (children) at any time.

Students or volunteers are not to be included in the ratios at any time so as to comply with Education and Care Services National Regulations 2012 requirements.

Students are not to share information about the child’s day with families, nor are they to take messages regarding the child from the parents, rather they need to refer the parent to a permanent staff member.

Students or voluntary workers are not responsible for the daily routine or taking children for group times. If a student or volunteer takes a group time they must be fully supervised by a primary contact staff member.

Students and volunteers are to sign-in and sign-out daily on the visitors book.

Primary contact staff will be responsible for supervising students and volunteers within their room, sharing their knowledge and guiding them to complete appropriate tasks.

Students and voluntary workers will have to complete a Working with Children’s Check.

Voluntary workers will not be permitted to change nappies or assist a child with clothing changes or toileting needs.

Reviewed: 14 / 05 / 2012

9 | P a g e

Supervising Officer - Responsible Person

The Centre will ensure that in the absence of the Responsible Person the Centre, parents will be aware of the approved nominated responsible person/certified supervisor for the day.

Contact Staff Requirements

The Centre will ensure that staff to child ratios reflect current Child Care Regulation requirements. The Centre will ensure that contact staff meets the Regulation Requirements for qualified staff and other contact staff to reflect enrolled children.

10 | P a g e

Our Vision, Mission and Values

Vision To achieve wellbeing, dignity and justice for all. Mission Our mission is to bring compassion and justice to life. Values

• Respect • Justice • Compassion • Integrity • Excellence

Our Philosophy

MercyCare’s Child Day Care Services provides a richly stimulating, innovative and caring environment which fosters a child's natural curiosity and thirst for knowledge. The environment and program draws from the very best early childhood teaching theories and practices from around the world with emphasis on the Early Years Learning Framework. It offers a purposeful experience that establishes in each child a love of learning and a strong sense of self. Reflective planning allows the opportunity for both intentional teaching and spontaneous play ensuring that children are successful, competent and capable learners who have a clear understanding and connection to their sense of self, the community and the world around them.

MercyCare’s Child Day Care provides learning opportunities that build upon each child's strengths while challenging them to explore their potential. Children are encouraged to ask questions as they build an understanding of the world, and their place in it, while learning to live and play happily and purposefully with others.

We act as an extension of home and provide an environment where children feel loved, accepted and secure, as well as being a place where children are encouraged to achieve their best socially, emotionally and academically. We have a moral and social obligation to the children, their families and the greater community to provide the children with a core foundation that will support them through life to become active members of the community. Mercy Child Day Care fosters strong home -childcare partnerships, creating a smooth and caring transition from home to childcare. Parent participation is encouraged and educators work in partnership with parents in optimising the learning of each child. We place great value on developing strong links between home and childcare. At all times we strive hard to develop partnerships based on mutual understandings, mutual respect and continual dialogue promoting shared learning and collaboration.

11 | P a g e

We view the child’s time spent at our childcare centre as an apprenticeship in humanity where differences are embraced and acceptance of others is always encouraged as the best choice. Offering support to challenge and succeed within our 5 developmental outcomes, critical reflection and careful planning will allow each child’s interests to be responded to and scaffolds their learning. We represent an educational vehicle, engrossing the children in projects and a learning system which allows them to question, examine and enjoy the challenge of the experiences before them.

It is our belief that when our children, educators and families of MercyCare’s Child Day Care Services intertwine, it creates the unmistakable essence that is uniquely recognised as that of MercyCare Child Day Care Services.

12 | P a g e

Day Care Policies Enrolments - Priority of access to vacant places

Purpose: To communicate clearly the criteria and conditions for admission into the Centre.

Policy: The Centre's Enrolment Policy is determined by the requirements of the Commonwealth Government and by the Philosophy of Mercy as the owners of the Centre.

The Commonwealth gives priority in enrolment to children:

• A child at risk of serious abuse or neglect • A child of a single parent who satisfies, or parents who both satisfy, the

work/training/study test under section 14 or the Family Assistance Act. • Any other child. • Within each category the following children are to be given priority: • Children in Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander families • Children in families which include a disabled child • Children in families with a non-English speaking background • Children in socially isolated families • Children of single parents

These priorities are applied in filling vacancies which arise in Child Care from time to time.

Procedure:

• Vacancy arises • Registrations of Interest are scrutinised and prioritised. • Families are notified of vacancy • Enrolment and commencement times are negotiated.

13 | P a g e

Confidentiality/privacy policy statement

We respect your privacy.

In order to provide you with the highest standard of service our organisation is required to collect personal information from you about your children and parents/guardians before and during the course of a child’s enrolment in our service. We are committed to protecting your privacy and we abide by the National Privacy Principles contained within the Privacy Act.

Privacy of your personal information is important to us and we conduct our business with respect and integrity.

What information do we collect, why and how is it used?

Basic details are usually collected directly from parents such as your names, phone contacts but it is also necessary for staff to collect details regarding your child’s names, date of birth, medical details, health, routines, likes and dislikes which make up a personal profile.

In addition we are required to hold information regarding your child’s Child Care Benefit and Rebate entitlements and may share relevant information with Centrelink and DEEWR.

All this information is vital in assisting us to provide the best possible individual care for your child and for processing payments. Some of the information we collect is to satisfy the services legal obligations under the relevant childcare legislation.

Naturally much of this information is of a personal nature and some of it might be regarded as ‘sensitive’ and not the sort of information that you would wish to have unnecessarily disclosed to others.

We assure you that:

• This information will only be used by our child care professionals in order to deliver your child’s care to the highest standards.

• It will not be disclosed to those not associated with the care of your child without your express consent.

• You may ask to seek access to the information held about you and your child and we will provide access without undue delay.

• This access might be inspection of your child’s records or by providing copies of information.

• There will be no charge made for requesting this information but there may be a fee levied to cover the cost associated with the processing of this request.

• We will take reasonable steps to protect this information from misuse or loss and from unauthorised access or disclosure.

• Our staff are committed to respect these principles at all times. • If a student has a valid training requirement that involves the gathering of certain

information pertaining to your child or family, the student must have written consent from you and a Director of the Centre.

14 | P a g e

All privacy related comments, feedback or complaints should be directed to one of the Centre’s Directors. We will follow all comments; feedback or complaints within 14 days and resolve them to maintain our high standards of service provision. Sourced: Policies to go by, Children’s Services Support Unit 2005

15 | P a g e

Finances - Financial hardship

Purpose: To ensure that cost is not prohibitive to the provision of services and support

to families.

Policy: All families have the right to financial assistance when necessary.

Procedure:

• All correspondence regarding fees will contain information regarding financial assistance available.

• If a parent approaches the Manager regarding financial difficulty, an application can be made for Special Childcare Benefit, if the applicant fits the definition described in the current DEEWA Child Care Management System (CCMS) reference manual.

16 | P a g e

Fee policy

The Centre aims to provide a quality child care service to all families. Parents will be offered care according to the Priority of Access Guidelines.

Fees

• Fees will be charged for Public Holidays, holidays and sick absences. Fees will not be charged during the centre closure between Christmas Eve and New Year.

• Statements will be sent every fortnight by email or post. • All fees are required to be paid two weeks in advance. Families with fees

outstanding after a period of two weeks will receive a letter requesting full payment within seven (7) days. If there is no response a second letter will be sent. Please be aware the centre has the right to terminate your child’s care and place your unpaid account in the hands of a debt collector if payment is not received within seven (7) days.

Notice Period

The Centre requires two weeks notice period if you require to alter, or cancel care. If your child does not attend care during this notice period, fees will be charged at the full daily rate (if your child does not attend the centre you will not be eligible to receive CCB unless they have a medical certificate for those days).

Orientation Policy for Families

To enable children to settle in comfortably, feeling safe and secure and to set the foundations for a trusting partnership and open communication between Teachers and families we feel that it is necessary for the family to attend orientation visits. We recommend starting orientation two weeks prior to starting care for your child.

Orientation is available at any time throughout the year. The best time to visit is between 9am and 11.30am to experience exploration time, morning group and morning tea. We recommend that you bring your child in for at least 3 orientation visits prior to their first day.

• The parent must remain present to enable the Centre to stay within its licensed staff/child ratio.

• Families are welcome to stay with their child throughout the settling in process and we encourage families to use this time to communicate and share as much information with staff to help with programming and goal setting.

• The Centre is committed to adjust the orientation process to suit individual families and their needs.

• The Centre relies on information gathered from family surveys to review and assess our orientation experience for our new families.

• Educators will assist both adults and children with the daily routine so that the Child Care room is a familiar place by the time the child’s first day arrives.

• Children will have the opportunity to orientate when they move care groups.

17 | P a g e

• Parents are encouraged to ask any questions they may have. An orientation evaluation form will be provided to new parents to complete and return to the Centre. This will allow staff to reflect upon the orientation process and gain ideas to better provide for individuals and meet needs, interests and cultural beliefs/diversity.

Date that the policy was last updated or revised: 11/6/2012

Holding Fee

A start date will be discussed with each family, if care is not required at this time, a holding fee will be charged according to your child’s booking (ie: the full daily rate will be charged as a holding fee until the care is required).

CCB & CCR

• All families are required to be assessed for eligibility for Childcare Benefit to receive either the means tested Childcare Benefit, or the work, study, training tested Child Care Rebate.

• Please contact Centrelink or Human Services on 136150 or www.humanservices.gov.au

• You are required to advise the centre of Customer Reference Numbers for the account holder and child/ren before commencement of care or as soon as possible.

http://www.familyassist.gov.au/

18 | P a g e

Non-English speaking background policy

• If any parent/guardian of a child enrolled at the Centre is not fluent with the English

language, policies and other Centre information will be provided to that parent/guardian in a language that is readily understood by the parent/guardian.

• Alternatively, the information may be provided to that parent through an interpreter, or other person chosen by the parent/guardian who is capable of explaining the information in a language that is understood by the parent/guardian

• Support from interpreting services is available if communication is difficult between staff, children and families. Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) 131450 Website: www.immi.gov.au/

• General information, resources and support can be obtained from the Family Assistance, Centrelink and/or Community Services or www.mychild.gov.au

http://www.immi.gov.au/

http://www.mychild.gov.au/

19 | P a g e

Arrival and departure

Purpose: To ensure that children are accounted for on a daily basis.

Policy: All children attending Child Day Care Services must be handed over from parents or authorised person to caregivers on arrival and from caregiver to parents or authorised person on departure.

Procedure:

• Parents fill out sign in/out sheets on arrival and departure, with a signature on each entry. (This is a requirement of the Child Care Regulations).

• Caregivers greet children and parents on arrival and exchange necessary information. Parents may wish to leave this information written in a message book as well.

• Parents inform caregivers of the departure of their child and gain information of their child's day.

• The Centre would discourage the collection of children by a child or sibling. The child may be a high risk of injury/accident.

• The Centre cannot hand over a child to parent or authorised person who is affected by alcohol or drugs to such an extent that they may endanger the child.

• The names and contact numbers of all persons authorised to collect children from the Centre must be included on the enrolment form. Any changes to these authorities must be advised in writing to the centre by the custodial parent as soon as possible.

• If the custodial parent arranges for an unauthorised person to collect their child from the Centre, they must contact the Centre to advise of this arrangement and confirm who will collect the child.

• If the Centre has not been notified and someone other than the custodial parent arrives to collect the child the Co-ordinator or Senior Staff Member will contact the custodial parent to obtain their verbal authorisation which will confirmed in writing wherever possible.

• The child will not be released until the custodial parent’s authorisation has been obtained. If the authorised person is not known to the centre, the custodial parent will be asked to provide a description of the person concerned, who will also be required to provide proof of their identity.

• The Centre will not try to interpret or act on Court Orders in difficult situations as there may be conflicting orders in existence. The Centre will only act on those who are authorised on the enrolment form to collect the children.

• Children may leave the centre for excursions where a form has been signed by the parent, or in cases where the child requires medical aid or for other emergencies.

Reviewed: August 2012

20 | P a g e

Collecting children from school

Purpose: To provide a transport service to ensure the safe delivery of children to our after school care program.

Procedure:

• The Centre bus will arrive at the school to collect enrolled children and transport them to the After School Care Program.

• All children must be waiting at the pick up area at the arranged arrival time.

• Attempts will be made to locate children missing from the pick up point, with consideration given to children waiting on the bus.

• Parents are responsible to liaise with the After School Care Program to ensure their children know where the pick up point is and at what time they must be there.

• Parents are responsible to contact the After School Care Program if their child is absent from school, or not attending the After School Care Program.

• If a child is missing from the pick up point, every effort will be made to contact parents regarding the whereabouts of their child.

• If a child is left behind a staff member will be assigned to return to the school to collect this child.

• Staff discuss with children frequently about bus safety and have clear limits displayed.

• If the bus is in involved in a minor accident or breaks down, the Centre will be notified and alternative transport will be arranged.

• Children must be seated at all times when the bus is in motion. Arms and heads must remain inside the bus and seat belts in cars must be worn.

• Children cannot be transported in the back of a van, station wagon or a vehicle which does not have appropriate seating and restraints.

21 | P a g e

Transport procedures for child care children

To provide procedures to ensure safe transportation of a group of children.

• Prior to the transportation of a group of children the staff must prepare the children regarding the rules of behaviour whilst walking, travelling and embarking the bus.

• Each child will be assigned to a parent, volunteer or staff member and will walk to the bus and wait until it is safe, then enter the vehicle .

• The children must be seated at all times during the journey. • Children must only have the windows open a few centimetres to allow for fresh air. • Staff must ensure that children are seated at all times and arms or heads are not

protruding from windows. Seatbelts in cars must be worn. • Children cannot be transported in the back of a van, station wagon, or a vehicle

which does not have the appropriate seating restraints. • If the bus is involved in a minor accident or break down, the Centre will be notified

and alternative transport will be arranged for all or individual children.

22 | P a g e

Indisposed or absent staff

Purpose: To ensure that staffing levels are consistent with enrolled children. Procedure:

• If a staff member is ill or unable to come to work, they must contact the Centre prior to their normal start time.

• A list of relief staff will be available in case of emergencies. • The Centre will ensure a relief staff is made available to replace contact

staff. • If a contact staff member has to leave the program at any time during a

care session, the Centre will ensure that staff member is replaced. • To ensure continuity of care the Centre has employed a pool of staff to

replace absent carers. • If there are no relief staff available an agency will be contacted to provide

additional educators.

23 | P a g e

Attendance

Absenteeism Purpose: To ensure that children are accounted for on a daily basis. Policy: Parents are requested to inform the Centre if their child will not be attending

on their booked day. Procedure:

• Parents notify the Centre of the day of absenteeism. • The absence is recorded by the Centre.

Late collection Purpose: To ensure that children are not left at Centre after closing time. Policy: Children are required to be collected by the appropriate closing time of each

program. Procedure:

• When a child is not collected by closing time, the parent will be contacted and asked to come to the Centre.

• If the parent is not available, the emergency contact people listed on the enrolment form will be contacted and asked to make arrangements for the child.

• If no-one is available to collect the child within 30 minutes then a call will be made to D.C.D. or the local Police Station to discuss arrangements for the child's safe care until the parent can be contacted.

• A notice to this effect will be posted on the Centre’s entrance with the relevant telephone contact numbers.

• A financial penalty may be incurred for recurrent late pickup.

Children who are not enrolled children A licensee must ensure that a child who is not an enrolled child for a care session is not present at the place during the care session, or present on an excursion with enrolled children during the care session, unless the child:

• Is present on a temporary basis; and • Is adequately supervised by a person other than a contact staff member.

24 | P a g e

Medical emergency

Purpose: To provide clear instructions to caregivers in the event of illness or injury. Policy: In the event of a medical emergency the following procedures should be

followed. Procedures for Caregivers:

Injury/Illness Visible – ie Cuts, bruises, simple fractures.

• Remain calm. • Delegate staff member to notify emergency service or ring 000 direct. • If injury permits, move person to place of safety, providing you can do so

without endangering your own safety or health. • If qualified to do so, render first aid. If not trained, keep person calm,

warm and reassured. • Do not give anything to eat or drink. • Do not move any limb suspected of being broken. • Contact parent if child has had an accident while attending the Centre. • Make every effort to comfort child while waiting for parent or emergency

service to arrive. • When qualified first aid arrives, prepare to give assistance. • Incidents and accidents will be reported to ACECQA via Department for

Communities, Education and Care Regulatory Unit.

Injury/Illness Not Visible – ie. Heart Attack, Stroke, Fits, Electric Shock or possible Internal Injury.

• Notify Administration Centre who will call emergency service. • At least one staff member on duty at the Centre will have a current First

Aid Qualification which includes Cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, expired air resuscitation and management of emergency situations.

• A fully equipped and properly maintained First Aid Kit will be kept at the Centre.

• Staff member will complete an Incident, Injury and illness record within 24 hours.


25 | P a g e

Safety drills

• Safety drills involving staff and children will be practised at least once every term in After School Care and four per year in Childcare

• (See separate file for fire drills and evaluation.) • Emergency evacuation procedures are displayed in rooms.

Reviewed: August 2012 Smoke detectors

• The Centre will ensure that smoke detectors are installed in appropriate areas. • Testing and replacement of batteries will be when required of annually.

Emergency procedures

Purpose: To provide clear instructions for care givers in the event of fire and other emergencies.

Policy: In the event of an emergency, the safety of all children and staff is absolute

priority. Evacuation of buildings should be swift and as calm as possible. Procedure for Caregivers:

• Remain calm. • Collect all children in your direct care. • Walk carry or push your group of children to the nearest emergency exit

and take them to the designated grassed areas outside. • Heathridge, Bedford, Thornlie and Seville Grove will have a staff member

contact emergency services. • Wembley Child Care - Dial 81 Centre Administration or 3410 Child Care

Office and inform of emergency. Central Administration will contact Emergency Services.

Notes:

a. All caregivers will be responsible for their own group of children. b. During lunch hour periods, staff who are on site will return to their rooms and assist with the evacuation. c. All trained staff members are responsible for ensuring that the Child register and Parent contact

numbers are taken with the group during evacuation. d. Attention must be given to children who may be asleep at the time of the emergency. e. The Centre will ensure that any ill or injured child will be cared for by nominated staff member during the

evacuation process. f. Caregivers will ensure children are moved to a safe area on the site. g. The Centre must ensure that rehearsal of the evacuation and emergency procedures are conducted

every three months that the service is operating. The centre must retain copies of rehearsal for a period of 3 years.


26 | P a g e

Supervision of children

The Centre will ensure that children are actively supervised according to children’s age and stage of development. Our environments will be designed and arranged in a way that is conducive to being easily supervised, whilst respecting the increasing independence and abilities of older children. Staff will involve children where appropriate with setting limits. It is the responsibility of the Director to ensure:

General Supervision

• children are supervised at all times by staff members • all children are within sight and/or hearing of staff at all times • babies are not left unattended at any time. • When babies are sleeping they are closely monitored. • staff effectively supervise all areas accessible to children • children are closely attended at all times on the change table and in any other place

that presents a risk • close supervision is particularly given at mealtime, during bathing or nappy

changing. • babies and toddlers are supervised while sleeping. • children are always attended when they are eating or drinking • students are never left with the sole supervision of children, indoors or outdoors. • relief staff are not left with sole responsibility for the supervision of children and that

permanent staff are available at all times in the centre based services. • individuals or groups of children are not withdrawn into areas where they are not

visible by other staff members, or taken into rooms that can be locked in the centre based services.

• staff in centre based services are aware that they must at all times remain readily accessible the staff/children ratio is increased in centre based services by re-direction of staff as required when cooking, woodwork, waterplay and complex climbing activities, which require greater levels of supervision, are undertaken.

• the ratio for outdoor and indoor supervision in centre based services is maintained at one staff member for every 10 children in the playground for children aged 3-5 years and increasing to one staff member for every five children aged two years, and one staff member for every four children for children under two years.

• staffing arrangements are to be flexible enough to allow supervision of individuals or small groups of children

• staff ensure that the health and safety are not compromised by the age ranges in groups

• staff communicate effectively about supervision of children • volunteers and students are at all times within the visibility of other staff while with

the children. • staff members are not engaged in other activities in centre based services such as

cleaning, preparation, administration, etc, while supervising children to ensure an interactive process of supervision.

27 | P a g e

Planning Supervision and Programming

• Staff will arrange equipment, furniture and activities appropriately to ensure effective supervision

• Staff will plan programs to allow children to access private and quite spaces while being appropriately supervised

• Planning for supervision of indoor and outdoor areas will be shared with regular and relief staff

Special Events or Physical Changes to Environment Supervision Staff consider implications for supervision during any changes to the physical environment of the centre where the design of buildings and grounds make effective supervision difficult, there is a plan (covering both the short and long term) for improving facilities to correct problems

Procedures for Supervision

• The centre has developed written information and procedures in relation to supervision which are accessible to regular and relief staff. This information will be on display throughout the centre

• Staff follow the centre’s procedures for releasing children and ensure they are released only to authorised people

Reviewed: 20/8/2012

28 | P a g e

Guiding children’s behaviour

Purpose: To ensure that the guidance of children's behaviour reflects the philosophy of the

Centre. Policy: The Centre will provide a secure, caring and stimulating environment which

encourages children to cooperate, enhances their self esteem and encourages their ability to interact with others. Where acceptable behaviour is promoted and any recriminations are kept to a minimum. The staff will endeavour to build relationships with children based on mutual respect and trust. Where a child continues to behave in an unacceptable manner, Parents/Guardians will be consulted and asked to work with staff to ensure discipline techniques are consistent and clear. The Centre will ensure that no child will be subject to any form of corporal punishment.

Caregivers should:

• Develop appropriate limits in terms a child will understand • Provide a program guaranteed of success (expectations of a child's

behaviour is appropriate to his/her development) • Substitute positive reinforcement to encourage the desired behaviour.

Procedure:

• Ignore the behaviour where practical (if the child is not hurting another person or damaging any equipment, the behaviour may be ignored).

• Intervene when necessary. • Redirect play as first action. • If negative behaviour persists, give a reminder of consequence • No additional punishment should be given and the child should be

reminded of the expected behaviour in positive terms.

29 | P a g e

Behavioural intervention plan

If a child consistently displays unacceptable behaviour the senior staff member in the child’s room will complete a Behaviour Intervention Plan to ensure:

• The expectations of the child’s behaviour are realistic and appropriate to their development level.

• The child understands the limits. • There is no conflict between Centre and home expectations. • The child’s needs are being met. • The child has no impediments which may cause the unacceptable behaviour. • The child is not copying observed behaviour. • Events at the Centre have not encouraged the behaviour. • Strategies are consistently followed.

If the unacceptable behaviour persists the Manager will jointly with the parents seek advice from an appropriate agency or professional.

• Appropriate strategies will be developed to manage the unacceptable behaviour. • A reasonable time is provided for the child to respond positively to the strategies and

the parent will be supported as far as possible. • If the methods fail to result in an improvement in behaviour, the Manager will discuss

alternative care arrangements with the parent/guardian in consideration of the health and safety of the other children in care.

Sourced: March 2010 - NCAC Policy Development Guide, Child Australia Fact Sheets Reviewed: August 2012 Bullying in child care

If a child is found to be showing inappropriate behavior (bullying), the Centre will follow the same procedure for Behavior Management (see above)

30 | P a g e

Alcohol & drugs

If an enrolled child appears to be adversely affected by alcohol, drugs or any other potentially deleterious substance, a contact staff member must call a parent of the child to collect the child from the centre as soon as practicable. A contact staff member must not permit any other person who is on the premises during a care session to:

• Smoke a cigarette, cigar or pipe • Consume alcohol • Take drugs unlawfully or be in unlawful possession of drugs • Take or be in possession of any other potentially deleterious substance.

No person who has a criminal conviction or who is displaying violent or abusive behaviour towards care staff or children is to be on the premises. Care staff will report to the Child Care Administration or the local Police Station any person who is displaying violent or abusive behaviour towards staff or children.

Abusive or violent behaviour towards staff and enrolled children

• If an individual is displaying violent or abusive behaviour the staff member will ask the offender to please leave the premises.

• Staff will not become involved in arguing or struggling with individual. • If the individual refuses to leave the premises, staff member will ring the

administration immediately if applicable. • Staff members will then remove all children to a safe lock down area of the Centre

where they will remain until it is safe. • If the individual refuses to leave the premises then the Police will be informed of the

emergency.

31 | P a g e

Health and safety

Excursions Purpose: To ensure that issues which relate to the proper conduct of excursions are

considered. Policy: Excursions, developmentally appropriate for the children participating, are

provided from time to time as part of the program. Parents will be encouraged to participate in excursions from the Centre.

Procedure:

All parents will be informed of planned excursions ahead of time and will be provided with the following details: • Date • Departure time • Return time • Destination description and proposed activities • Mode of transport • Alternative arrangements for children not participating in outings • A return slip that requires the parent’s name and signature and child’s

name. • When outings are organised, careful attention is given to the following: • Adult/child ratio & Volunteers • Destination where there is water/potential hazards • A risk assessment will be carried out to ensure the safety of each

excursion • Meals and drink for the children • First aid kit • Access to toilets and taps • Mobile telephone • Parental permission & Emergency contact • Transport • Cost to Centre/Parents • Sun protection eg. hats, sunscreen

There may be follow up activities on the child's return to the Centre and consideration given to extension of the excursion time in future planning. Staff will evaluate supervisory practices after excursions. Reviewed: June 2013

32 | P a g e

Illness and infection Purpose: To define correct procedures for protecting children from infection and illness. Policy: If a child develops a contagious illness or infection parents should make

alternative care arrangements for the child until such time as the illness/infection is no longer contagious. The Centre follows the guidelines within the "Staying Healthy in Child Care (Preventing infectious diseases in child care)" - published by the National Health and Medical Research Council. Copies of exclusion guidelines will be displayed in all rooms.

Procedure:

• If children become sick while attending the Centre every effort will be made to ensure their comfort and minimise the spread of infection while their parents or emergency contact are asked to come and pick them up.

• A doctor's certificate may be requested for the child's return to the program.

• An incident, injury, illness report will be completed by educator to be signed by parent.

• Notices will be displayed in childcare rooms to inform parents of cases of contagious illness.

• In cases of allergic reactions or asthma, appropriate medication will be given.

Role of Public Health Workers The Health Department in each state or territory has public health staff . These people are available to advise and assist individuals and institutions in the community about infectious diseases, infection control practices and other public health matters. Each state and territory has laws stating that doctors must notify certain infectious diseases. Child care centres should inform the local public health unit of the following conditions:

• Diarrhoea (if several children in one group are ill); • Haemophilus influenza type B (Hib); • Hepatitis A; • Hepatitis B (recent illness only); • Measles • Meningococcol infection; • Parvovirus B19 (if 2 or more cases); • Pertussis; • Roseola (if two or more children in one group are ill); • Scarlet Fever; and • TB.

By informing the public health unit, the centre benefits because public health staff may be able to help:

• Identify the cause of the illness.

33 | P a g e

• Explain the consequences to children and staff of an infection. • Trace the source of the infection (for example, contaminated food). • Advise on appropriate control measures (for example, vaccines,

antibiotics, exclusion, education, infection control practices. • Public health staff can provide valuable advice and support and have

access to resources that may be necessary to manage outbreaks. Immunisation:

• We do not discriminate against children who have not been immunised. If, however, a particular disease is present or suspected at the Centre, exclusion from the Centre is recommended during the period for which a child would be susceptible.

• The Centre provides information for parents about immunisation for children and this is updated annually.

• All families will need to bring a current copy of their child’s immunisation every six months.

• The organisation will offer staff an opportunity to update their own immunisation at no cost. Annual Flu vaccinations are offered to staff. If there is an outbreak of an immunisable disease at the Centre, the organisation will supply and encourage all staff to upgrade their immunisation.

Immunisation Information - sourced from “Staying Healthy in Child Care” 4th Edition—April 2009 Reviewed: November 2009 Head Lice Children who have been identified with head lice will need to be excluded from the Centre until all lice and visible eggs have been removed. Follow up treatment every 7 to 10 days is recommended to ensure re-contamination does not occur. Health Department Fact Sheets are available from the office. Reviewed: August 2012

34 | P a g e

Bathroom procedures

• Staff supervise children when going to the toilet at all times. • Group toileting will happen at set times during the day and individual toileting as

required. • Staff will accompany child or children to bathroom. • Staff will assist child with clothing when toileting if assistance is requested. • After toileting the child will be encouraged to flush toilet. • Each child will be encouraged to use correct handwashing method using liquid soap

from dispenser and counting slowly to ten. Explain to the child that washing their hands and drying them properly will stop germs that might make them sick.

• Dry hands with paper towel from dispenser provided. • Used paper towel to be discarded into the bin provided. • Staff to wash their own hands after assisting each child.

The After School Care Program will ensure that children attending the service have appropriate toilet and bathroom facilities for school aged children and bathrooms are designed to protect children’s privacy whilst using the bathrooms. The Centre will ensure that a staff member is available to supervise if children are using the bathroom. If there is no staff member available a buddy system will be implemented. Reviewed: June 2013

Hand washing policy Aim: The Centre aims to promote a healthy environment in which children will grow

and learn about the world around them. The application of preventative measures such as hand washing will be an effective way of preventing the spread of infection.

Implementation:

• The centre will ensure safe, well maintained, age appropriate hand washing facilities and toilets are easily accessible to each child.

• Staff will talk to children about health and hygiene practices. • When necessary, staff will demonstrate for children specific hygiene

procedures and explain the reasons for them. • The centre will provide. • Children are encouraged to self-regulate their personal hygiene and

dental care practices. • Liquid soap and paper towels for drying hands will be provided by the

centre for children, visitors and staff. Hand washing is considered to be the most effective way of controlling infection in the centre. Caregivers and children should wash their hands:

• On arrival (this reduces new germs being introduced to the centre)

35 | P a g e

• Before handling food, including a baby’s bottle • Before eating • Before and after changing a nappy • Before and after removing gloves • After going to the toilet • After cleaning up blood, faeces or vomit • After wiping a nose • Before giving medication • After handling garbage • After playing outside • Before going home (this prevents taking germs home) • Before and after applying sunscreen

All children, staff and visitors to the centre will wash their hands as follows:

• Use liquid soap and running water • Wash your hands thoroughly while counting slowly from 1 to 10 (15

seconds) • Rinse your hands while slowly counting from 1 to 10 • Turn off the tap with paper towel • Dry hands well with new paper towel

Sourced: April 2013 Staying Healthy in Child Care Preventing infectious diseases in child care Fifth Edition Health & Safety in Children’s Services: Model Policies & Practices Reveiwed : June 2013

Medication Purpose: To outline a process for the careful administration of medication. Policy: Prescribed medication will be given to children within the Day Care setting

provided written authority is given by a parent or guardian. Procedure:

• Parents are required to complete a medication authority form on arrival. All medications should be handed directly to a staff member; under no circumstances is medication of any form to be left in a child’s bag.

• Only medications prescribed by a medical practitioner or accompanied by the practitioner’s written authorisation will be given. Authorisation needs to include the child’s name, the name of the medication, the dosage required and the length of time the medication is to be administered, this authorisation must be signed and dated by the medical practitioner.

• All medications must be in their original container which is clearly labelled with the child’s name, required dosage, instructions for administration and expiry.

• In the case of an emergency the centre will administer medication or seek medical attention. If a parent cannot be reasonably contacted a registered medical practitioner or emergency service may be contacted for

36 | P a g e

authorisation. • In cases of Asthma or Anaphylaxis, medication will be administered

without authorisation and parent of the child and emergency services will be advised of medication administered as soon as practicable.

• Self administration of medication by school age children is only permitted under strict supervision of staff and with written authorisation from the parent/guardian.

Administration of Medication:

• Unless in the case of an emergency only a qualified staff member is to administer medication.

• Administering staff must ensure the medication authority has been completed correctly by the parent, signed and dated.

• Staff must check that the medication matches that which has been authorised. The child’s name, dosage, dosage instructions and expiry should all be checked by both the administering staff and a witness. Medications must be stored as per medication instructions. All medication must be out of reach of children at all times.

• Staff must follow the medication instructions at all times. If the instructions vary from those given by the parent e.g. dosage amount then the medication instructions given by the medical practitioner will be followed.

• Once administered staff must complete the administration section of the Medical authority form.

Sourced: June 2011: Child Care Services (ChildCare) Regulations 2006 Reveiwed : August 2012

Nutrition

Purpose: The service will provide a well balanced, nutritious and varied menu for all children in care. All food that is offered to children will be appropriate to their developmental needs.

Procedure:

• The Centre provides 50% of the children’s daily nutritional needs on a daily basis.

• A four week cyclic menu has been prepared and will be followed by the cooks employed by the Centre.

• Menus will offer morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and a late snack where required.

• After School Care will offer afternoon tea and a late snack where required.

• Consideration is given to special dietary requirements cultural differences of individual children as necessary.

• Menus will be displayed on the noticeboard in all rooms of the Centre. • Parents are encouraged to bring a plain, home baked birthday cake for

their child on their special day, so that a party can be shared by all. • Drinking water is readily available to the children throughout the day.

37 | P a g e

• To ensure safe food handling , all childcare staff have received Food Safe Training.

• A detailed Nutritional Policy addressing menu development, menu content, developmentally appropriate foods, inappropriate foods, children with allergies, environment and special occasions is displayed beside the menu in each child’s group.

Sourced—September 2009: Dietary Guidelines for Children and Adolescents in Australia 2003 Menu Development

• Staff and Parents will be encouraged to contribute to the menu

development. • Menu will be reviewed seasonally or as required. • All recipes for foods served at the centre will be available for Parents to

take home. • Consultation with nutrition and health experts will be sought on a regular

basis. • The Centre to comply with National Quality Standards for nutrition. • All relevant food handlers will complete the Food Safe Training.

Menu Content:

During a two-week period the menu will provide 50% of the children’s daily nutritional needs. The food groups will include:

• 4 serves of red meat per fortnight • 3 serves of white meat per fortnight • 2 vegetarian meals per fortnight • 3 serves of dairy per day • 1 serve of vegetables per day • 2 serves of bread or cereal per day • Only poly-unsaturated oil/margarine • Only nutritious snacks and drinks • Water will be available at all times.

Menus for Children 0 – 2 years

The staff will ensure that breast milk or formula provided by parents is kept at appropriate temperature, warmed by water bath method, with only the amount for one meal warmed at one time. Other fluids such as boiled water to be offered on demand.

After consultation with parents, different textures of food may be introduced.

0 – 4 months Pureed or sieved 5 – 9 months Minced mashed or grated 9 months – 2 years Meat is minced, other foods chopped or mashed and

finger food.

Children over 2 years of age will be offered meals that are developmentally appropriate.

38 | P a g e

The Centre will not offer children inappropriate food that could cause choking.

• All children are seated and supervised while eating. • Foods such as carrots, celery, apple may be grated, cooked or mashed

for children under 2 years. • Sausages and other meats to be pureed for children under 1 year, cut

into small pieces for older children. • Popcorn, nuts, hard lollies, corn chips or other similar foods will not be

given to young children. • Children will never be forced to eat. • Children will be encouraged to sit quietly whilst eating to avoid choking

incidents.

Children with Food Allergy/Sensitivity If a parent suspects that their child has a food allergy, they should consult with a Doctor or Specialist. If necessary the child may then be referred to a dietician who will be responsible for developing a diet for that child’s individual needs. Parents will need to consult with the carers on a regular basis regarding special dietary needs for their child. Dietary restrictions for children with extreme food allergies will need to be discussed regularly. Allergic foods ingested by a highly sensitive child, could result in a life-threatening situation. Peanut and peanut products have been identified as high allergic foods so the centre will not use these products in food preparation. More information can be obtained from Princess Margaret Hospital, local Child Health Nurses, local Doctors or Dieticians regarding food sensitivity. The Environment The Centre will provide a safe and friendly eating environment to assist in the transmission of nutritional, family and multicultural values. In order for children to form good eating habits, the Centre will ensure:

• There is a selection of healthy food choices • That food is prepared in a variety of ways • Staff members are encouraged to sit and share meals with children • Healthy snacks are available to children

Sourced from: “Start Right Eat Right” Health Department of Western Australia 2009 Date that the policy was last updated or revised: 12/6/2012

Infant bottle feeds policy

• All food and bottles will be kept totally separate from the nappy change and toileting areas.

• All bottles of milk or formula are to be stored in the refrigerator on the top shelf as per our Nutritional and Food Safety Policy.

• Breast milk is to be stored on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. • Before preparing or handling expressed milk, formula or food wash hands.

39 | P a g e

• All families are required to provide the correct measurement of formula. Staff members will prepare formula and strictly according to the instructions on the formula container.

• The microwave will not be used to heat expressed breast milk, formula milk, bottled milk or any fluid.

• Bottles can be warmed using the Bottle Warmer. • Infant milk bottles are only to be warmed once • The temperature of the milk will always be tested before giving it to the infant by

using your wrist. • Any left-over milk will be discarded 20 minutes after each feed. • After the use of the bottle, rinse the teat and bottle in water, wash with hot soapy

water and rinse and returned to parent for sterilising.

Date that the policy was last updated or revised: 9 /08 / 2012

Bottled breast milk policy

• Ensure bottled breast milk is always labelled with the child’s name, mother’s name and the date it was expressed

• Breast milk can be stored in a refrigerator for 48 hours and in a deep freezer for 3 months. After this time lapses the milk is to be discarded

• Frozen breast milk can be thawed by placing it in either cool or warm water. Boiling water is not to be used as the milk will curdle

• The process of thawing is for the bottle to be placed in a container of lukewarm water • Any left-over breast milk will be discarded after 20 minutes • Under no circumstances is the left over breast milk to be refrigerated or refrozen • After the use of the bottle, rinse the teat and bottle in water, wash with hot soapy

water and rinse and returned to parent for sterilising. Date that the policy was last updated or revised: 5/7/2013

Celebrations policy Religious celebrations such as Christmas and Easter will be recognised within the Centre and reflected in our programs. At these times we encourage other cultural celebrations that are significant to our families. We aim to embrace any cultural differences so that all children and families may experience and enjoy these special times. We believe that it is important for children to experience the fantasy that such celebrations create. Other special days such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Australia Day will also be recognised. We realise that not all families celebrate the above mentioned and respect this ensuring that we cater for this choice.

• You are welcome to bring in a birthday cake for your child so that they will be able to share with their friends. We encourage cakes to be homemade with a list of the ingredients used provided. Cup Cakes are recommended. Please ensure that you advise us if your child has any allergies or you would prefer they do not eat the cake. If this is the case we may ask you to bring in something special for your child so that they feel part of the celebration.

• If you would prefer that your child NOT participate in such celebrations please let us

40 | P a g e

know so that we can make alternate arrangements. If this is the case we will respect the rights and feelings of this child and will find something else for them to do so that they do not feel that they are being left out.

• The use of candles will be carried out with the children’s safety in mind and fully supervised by an adult.

• The cake (if a full cake rather than cupcakes) will be covered in glad wrap before the blowing out of the candles takes place.

Families are encouraged to share with the Centre their own beliefs, values and special celebrations so that we are able to educate children on cultural diversity. Date that the policy was last updated or revised: 11 / 06/ 2012

Dental care policy The Centre aims to establish and reinforce good dental health practices for each child. The centre will provide a learning environment that raises dental health awareness and supports the development of valuable life skills and habits for children and families. Implementation

• Every effort is made for dental health professionals to visit the centre to talk with staff, children & families about dental health.

• The centre will encourage healthy eating habits, and drinking water to quench thirst.

• Children will be encouraged to rinse their mouths with water to remove food debris after every meal or snack.

• Staff role model good dental health practices. • The centre will provide information to families on dental health. • The centre will report to families any signs of accident, injury, infection, or

tooth caries, discomfort or pain a child may have with chewing, eating or swallowing.

• Children are encouraged to self-regulate their personal hygiene and dental care practices.

• The centre will be aware of dental first aid. Sourced: “Oral Health Promotion: A Practical Guide for Childrens Services” Published by the Aged, Community and Mental Health Division Victorian Government Department of Human Services Reveiwed : 5/7/2013

41 | P a g e

Rest period Aim: The centre believes sleep and rest time play an important part in a child’s

growth and development, so we encourage all children to have at least a short period of rest. The centre makes provision so that each child may do so. The routine provides for time during the day for rest/sleep or quiet activity. However we also accommodate individual needs for rest outside this time.

Implementation

• We acknowledge the individual needs of families and their children in regards to rest and sleep. We seek to work together to effectively cater for your child’s needs.

• Parents are to advise staff at enrolment of any special patterns or cultural practices that your child has which will enable us to maintain consistency and continuity with practices at home. It is also important to update this information throughout your child’s time in care or as special circumstances arise – e.g. your child had a bad night and may need to go to sleep earlier; your child slept in and may not need a sleep…. You can do this verbally or in the communication book.

• Staff endeavour to ensure sleep and rest routines are positive experiences. This is achieved by encouraging children to bring a favourite toy or other comforters, or familiar sleeping bags as well as the use of soft music. Staff interactions also facilitate a positive atmosphere. Staff will also provide feedback about your child’s sleep patterns via the communication book/board and verbally as required.

• Staff will not force a child to sleep nor will they deprive a child from sleeping.

• Current information on sleep equipment and safe sleeping practices from recognized authorities is available to staff and families.

• Provision is made for children who do not sleep to engage in quiet activities such as looking at books, quiet table activities.

Staff will at all times meet the Education and Care Services National Law (WA) Act 2012

• To ensure that bedding is arranged to prevent cross infection • Allow easy access and exit of children • The sleep/rest area is adequately ventilated and has natural light. • No children over the age of seven sleep in the same room with any child

of the opposite sex. • No child sleeps in the same room that an adult sleeps in. • All beds and mattresses will be appropriately cleaned and maintained.

The Centre follows SIDS & Kids safe sleeping:

• Put baby on their back to sleep from birth. • Sleep baby with face uncovered. • Put baby’s feet at bottom of cot • Cot must be Australian Standard, no quilts, doonas, duvets, pillows or cot

bumpers. • Use a firm clean mattress. • Baby must sleep in a smoke free zone.

42 | P a g e

Sourced: Education and Care Services National Law (WA) Act 2012 National Child Care Accreditation Council: Quality Practices Guide 1st edition 2005 Sids and Kids National Network for Child Care Reviewed: August 2012

Nursery furniture and equipment safety

• All Furniture in the Nursery will be of the Australian Standard and free of rough surfaces, sharp edges or points.

• The Nursery will be free from small objects or items that can break and become a potential hazard.

• To reduce the risk of harm, collapsible furniture and furniture that presents possible entrapment hazards will not be used in the Nursery.

• All furniture and equipment will be age appropriate. • All under bench cupboards will have safety lock devices. • All furniture, safety devices and equipment is stable and wear and tear free. • Non-toxic, easy to clean surfaces will be sourced for all equipment. • Infants will be supervised at all times and Educators will be made aware that most

injuries related to nursery furniture are due to falls from equipment. • Infants will never be left unattended at any time. All infants are to be safely secured

in their highchair when eating. • All equipment and furniture will be kept in a clean and hygienic state. • All equipment needs to apply with the most current safety advice from recognised

authorities. Date that the policy was last updated or revised: 15 / 05 / 2012

Sun protection/clothing Purpose: To ensure all children, staff and visitors at the centre are protected from the

sun. Policy: We at Mercy Child Care Services believe it is of extreme importance to

protect children and employees from the harmful damage that ultra violet rays cause.

Procedure:

• SPF 30+ broad spectrum sun screen will be provided for children and staff. Staff will apply sun screen to children at least 20 minutes before going outside. Sun screen will be reapplied every two hours when outdoors for extended periods. Sunscreen will be stored in a cool dry place and expiry monitored.

• The centre will promote the use of legionnaire, bucket or broad brimmed

43 | P a g e

hats. Children who do not bring a hat will be asked to play in a shaded area.

• Staff are to check the UV index which is available from the Bureau of Meteorology website www.arpansa.gov.au/uvindex/realtime/per rt.htm. Before outdoor play. If the UV index is below 3 unrestricted play (no sun protection required) is permitted. If the UV index is 3 or above appropriate sun protection measures are to be taken and if the UV index is 8 or above children will not play outdoors.

• The centre will ensure there are adequate shaded areas provided in accordance with Child Care Services regulations. All planned outdoor activities and play equipment will be set up in shaded areas wherever possible.

• Staff and children will be encouraged to wear clothing that protects as much skin as possible while outdoors, darker colours are recommended to reduce UV reflection onto the skin.

• Babies who are immobile will remain in full shade when outside, they will be dressed in sunsafe hats and clothing. A child SPF 30+ sunscreen will be applied to exposed skin.

• Staff will include activities that promote sun protection within the program. • Current information will be provided for parents through newsletter and

pamphlets.

Sourced: Cancer Council of WA. (March 2011) Education and Care Services National Law (WA) Act 2012

Children’s belonging’s policy

• It can be devastating for children to lose their favourite toy and toys from home can cause conflict between children. This policy has been introduced to avoid this occurring.

• Please leave toys at home. The Centre has many new and exciting toys for all children to play with and are in numerous quantities to avoid sharing conflicts. Only sleep toys are encouraged at the centre.

• News time will provide an opportunity for children to bring in something special on their allocated day to share with their friends; however we do ask that this is not always a toy. Perhaps it could be something they have made at home, a postcard from a friend on holidays, a photo, etc.

• Please label everything that comes into the Centre. Many items end up in lost property and are never claimed. There is a lost property basket in each room and it is the parent’s responsibility to check these baskets for missing items.

• Educators will do all they can to ensure that your child’s items are not lost but this becomes very difficult if they are not labelled.


Occupational health and safety

44 | P a g e

• The organisation has written policies on Occupational Health & Safety that are based on current legislation and advice from recognised authorities. Copies are available from the Child Care Office.

Child protection The Centre is committed to Child Protection and a safe environment for all children who attend this service. Please refer to Child Protection Policy on current legislation. Procedure:

• Undergo a “Working with Children Check” and employment will be subject to a National Police Clearance. This is applicable for all paid staff, management, students and volunteers.

• The Centre will ensure that the Policy reflects the Philosophy of the Service which includes values, ethics, or code of conduct for Management, staff, children, families, students and volunteers.

• The Centre will establish the procedures for Child Protection matters including identifying, documenting, reporting and managing concerns and incidents.

• Ensure natural justice and fairness concepts in all circumstances are considered.

• Abide by Federal or State Legislation. • Identify and detail the procedures when an adult harms a child, a child

hurts another child, or an adult hurts another adult. • The Centre will ensure that all staff have opportunities for ongoing

Professional Development. • The Centre will provide counselling where appropriate.

Sourced: Mandatory Reporting of Child Sexual Abuse in WA Government of WA Department of Child Protection 2009. Reviewed: August 2009 Reviewed: August 2012

Buildings equipment and environment, dangerous plants and animals Purpose: The Centre aims to provide a safe environment in which children may play in

and explore free from harm. Procedure:

• The centre will ensure that required safety checks are carried out. • The Centre will ensure procedures are in place for identifying and

undertaking maintenance of buildings and equipment. • All toys and equipment are well maintained. • Climbing equipment, swings and other larger pieces of equipment are

located with soft fall surfaces underneath and securely anchored.

45 | P a g e

• Toys and other play materials for young children are appropriate to minimise the risk of choking.

• All power points which are accessible to children have secure protective caps.

• All electrical cords are out of reach of children or are secured. • Double adaptors and power boards are not accessible to children. • The Centre will ensure that there are no potentially dangerous plants

accessible to the children. • All chemicals will be clearly labelled and locked away at all times. • The Centre will be cleaned on a daily basis. • The Centre will ensure that we minimise the use of toxic products when

cleaning. • The Centre will ensure that all pet animals will be caged appropriately

and visiting animals to be adequately restrained. Reviewed: August 2012

Dangerous products policy The Child Care Service has a duty of care to provide all persons with a safe and healthy environment. The Service categorises dangerous products into the following sub-groups:

• Hazardous Chemicals and Substances • Dangerous Goods • Poisons • Drugs (including medication) • Miscellaneous dangerous products • Dangerous products are inaccessible to children or kept in locked

cupboards. • The Service ensures that there are Emergency Procedures and Practices

for accidental spills, contamination and corresponding First Aid plans for all dangerous goods handled and stored in the Service.

• The Service also complies with OHS National Standards Codes and practises Australian Standards and best practices recommendations from recognised authorities.

• Information on safe storage of potentially dangerous products at home is available from the office.

Resourced from: - Australian National Transport Commission. - National Occupational Health & Safety Commission Sourced: September 2009

46 | P a g e

Storage and use of dangerous chemicals, substances and equipment policy Policy: The centre will protect child centre staff, children, families and visitors from

the risks associated with chemical products, medicines, other dangerous substances and dangerous equipment used in the centre and environment.

Background: Accidental poisoning is the second most common hospital admission for child

injuries in Australia, and 75% of accidental poisonings are attributed to medications. The most common accidental poisonings involve respiratory and cough medications, antihistamines, paracetamol, iron tablets, benzodiazepines, and eucalyptus and other vaporiser oils. Other main agents of poisoning in children are household chemicals, especially pesticides including snail bait and mothballs, bleach and other cleaners, detergents, solvents, petroleum and kerosene and cosmetics. Many of these chemical products are routinely used in children’s centres and are potentially hazardous, either by ingestion, inhalation or skin contact. Pesticides and volatile chemicals such as solvents are easily inhaled. Information on chemical products can be obtained from manufacturers on Material Safety Data Sheets that provide information on chemical toxicity, health effects, safe handling and storage, and first aid instructions.

Relevant Legislation: Australian Standards for storage and handling of hazardous chemicals and materials. Procedures: When using or storing any chemical or dangerous substances or dangerous

equipment, centres should:

• Choose the least hazardous chemical, product or equipment for the job. • Choose chemicals or medicines with child resistant lids or caps. • Ensure that all dangerous cleaning materials (including detergents),

poisons and other dangerous substances and medications are stored in their original labelled container and not transferred to any other container. Do not reuse containers once they are empty.

• Ensure that if the original container for hazardous substances does not have a child resistant lid, the container is kept in a locked place, which is secure and inaccessible to children.

• Have storage facilities that are secure and inaccessible to children for the following types of items:

o All cleaning materials, including detergents o poisonous and other dangerous substances o dangerous tools and equipment o toiletries o medications o first aid equipment o emergency medical equipment and drugs o jagged or sharp objects that pose a hazard to children.

• Do not store pesticides, herbicides, solvents, petroleum or kerosene on the premises unless contained in a separate secure outdoor shed with a bonded floor, separate from the children’s play areas and environment. They should not be stored at ground level and not stored with organic materials, fertilisers or swimming pool chemicals.

47 | P a g e

• Ensure storage containers used for chemicals are not reused and are properly discarded when empty.

• Have storage facilities that are secure and inaccessible to children for any tool or equipment that is operated by an engine or any tool or equipment that poses a possible hazard to children or staff.

• Ensure that if any of the above substances need to be refrigerated, they are stored in a labelled child resistant container, preferably in a separate compartment or in a part of the refrigerator inaccessible to children.

• If bulk chemicals or non-domestic products and quantities are used or stored, have a Hazardous Substances Register and Risk Assessment in accordance with the OHS Act and Regulation. This should record product name, application, whether the product is labelled, whether a MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) is available, what class risk the chemical is, the controls for prevention of exposure that are required and what first aid, medical or safety action should be taken if a person is exposed.

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use, storage and first aid instructions and where possible, obtain a MSDS to keep with the substance or where staff can have immediate access to the information in an emergency, and ensure all staff are aware of the safety and first aid information in the MSDS.

• If only normal domestic or commercial products and quantities are used or stored, it is good risk management to keep a checklist or register of what hazardous chemicals or substances you have. Record where they are stored, how they might be a hazardous, if there are any first aid instructions available in relation to exposure and what action should be taken if a person is exposed

• When disposing of unwanted hazardous chemicals, substances or equipment, do so safely or in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, OHS Regulation, local council regulation or Department of Health advice as relevant. Do not flush chemicals or medications down the drain, sink, toilet, sewer or gutter.

• Wear appropriate personal protective clothing (e.g. gloves, aprons, mask, goggles) in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions when using or disposing of hazardous chemicals or substances.

• Seek medical advice immediately if poisoning or potentially hazardous ingestion, inhaled, skin or eye exposure has occurred, or call the Poisons Information Line on 131126, or call an ambulance, dial 000.

• In the case of any child or staff member injured by a chemical, substance or equipment, institute your emergency, medical and first aid procedures,

• In any major emergency involving a hazardous chemical or equipment, a hazardous gas or a fire or explosion hazard, call the emergency services, dial 000

Sourced: The Toxic Playground, Immig, J, 2000; Managing the Risks in Children’s Services, Caton, S. Roche D., 1999; Handling Pesticide Wastes - EPA: www.epa.nsw.gov.au ; Managing OHS in Children’s Services, Tarrant. S., 2002. Staying Healthy in Child Care Preventing infectious diseases in child care 4th edition - Endorsed December 2005 Planet Ark FACT SHEET ON CLEANING PRODUCTS & METHODS The health & environmental hazards of synthetic cleaning products Retrieved June 21, 2007, from http://www.planetark.com.au Reviewed : December 2009

http://www.planetark.com.au/

48 | P a g e

Minimising the use of potentially dangerous substances and objects without risking hygienic practices policy Policy Statement For Minimising the Use of Dangerous Chemicals The Centre will minimise the use of potentially dangerous substances it uses in keeping the centre whilst maintaining a clean state and without compromising hygiene practices. Procedure Washing germs down the drain is better than trying to kill germs with disinfectant. Ordinary detergents help to loosen the germs so that they can be washed away. Use colour-coded sponges in each area (for example blue n the bathroom, yellow in the kitchen) and keep them separate to protect your hands, wear general purpose rubber gloves when cleaning and hang them outside to dry when finished. Wash and dry your hands after removing the gloves. Disinfectants Disinfectants are usually unnecessary. Most germs do not survive for long on clean surfaces when exposed to air and light. Even in hospitals, the emphasis’s on the use of detergent and effective cleaning and drying procedures rather than disinfectants. in an outbreak situation, public health units may specify the use of a particular disinfectant. In this situation, for the disinfectant to work effectively, there still needs to be thorough cleaning with a detergent beforehand. There is no ideal disinfectant. Disinfectants cannot kill germs if the surface is not clean. It is more important to make sure that all surfaces have been cleaned with detergent and warm water than to use a disinfectant. To kill germs, any disinfectant needs:

• a clean surface to be able to get to the germ. • to be able to act against those particular germs. • to be of the right concentrate • on enough time to kill the germs, this is at least 10 minutes.

Even when all of these conditions are met a disinfectant will not kill all the germs present. For example in one teaspoon of faeces there may be 1,000,000,000,000 particles of a virus. after 10 minutes a disinfectant may kill 99.99% of them. This sounds like many of them were killed, but because there were so many present, the disinfectant may have left around 100,000,000 still alive. Less than 100 of these virus particles can be enough to make another child sick. Detergents Effective cleaning with detergent and warm water, followed by rinsing and drying removes the bulk of germs from surfaces. Germs are unable to multiply on clean, dry surfaces. Ensure that cleaning equipment is cleaned and stored so it can dry between uses. It should be well maintained, and designed to reduce dust during use. Appropriate equipment includes mops with detachable heads (to allow for laundering in washing machine using hot water) or cloths that are disposable or can be laundered.

49 | P a g e

Special areas for Cleaning - nappy change area Clean the nappy change area (table or mat) thoroughly after each nappy change with detergent and warm water. If faecal matter spills onto the change table or mat, clean with detergent and warm water, and leave to dry. At the end of the morning and at the end of the day, remove the mat; wash with warm water and detergent and leave to dry, preferably in the sun. Reviewed: December 2009 Resources: Staying Healthy in Child Care Preventing infectious diseases in child care 4th edition - Endorsed December 2005 Planet Ark FACT SHEET ON CLEANING PRODUCTS & METHODS The health & environmental hazards of synthetic cleaning products Retrieved June 21, 2007, from http://www.planetark.com.au

Smoke free environment Purpose: The Centre will ensure promotion of a smoke free environment under legal

duty of care requirements and Occupational Health & Safety Act 2000. Procedure:

• The Centre will ensure no smoking will be permitted in any enclosed areas of the service.

• The Centre will ensure staff are asked to leave the grounds if they wish to smoke.

• Parents, family members or relatives of children enrolled at the Service will not be permitted to smoke while on the premises.

Sourced: Centre of Community Health (2006) National Occupational Health & Safety Commission (2003) The Cancer Council Aust. (2004)

50 | P a g e

Hygiene & food safety Philosophy: Children to develop to their full potential in a safe, caring environment. Legislation: Health Act 1991 (WA) and its regulations; Occupational Safety and Health

Act 1984 (WA), Health (Food Hygiene) Regulations 1993 (WA). Community Services (Outside School Hours Care) Regulations 2002 (WA); OSHC QA

Child’s needs:

Protection from infection, clean hygienic environment, instruction about personal hygiene, appropriate clothing, developmental opportunities.

Parents needs:

To feel confident that their child’s health and well being & development is assured.

Staff needs: Protection from infection, clean hygienic environment, appropriate equipment

to ensure high level of hygiene, clear guidelines in relation to their duty of care, provision of necessary personal protective equipment.

Management:

Staff to maintain appropriate levels of hygiene and needs cleanliness to meet required standards; parents to co-operate in keeping sick and infectious children away from the centre.

Nappy Change Routine—Changing a nappy without spreading germs

• Wash your hands. • Place paper on the change table. • Always wear gloves when changing a nappy. • Remove the child’s nappy and put it in a ‘hands-free’ lidded bin. • Remove any clothes with urine or faeces on them and place in plastic

bag. • Clean the child’s bottom. • Remove the paper and put it in a ‘hands-free’ lidded bin. • Remove your gloves. • Put the gloves in the bin. • Place a clean nappy on the child. • Dress the child. • Take the child away from the change table. • Wash and dry your hands and the child’s hands • Clean the change table with detergent and warm water. • Wash your hands.

Nappy Change – Toilet Training Policy Health and hygiene will be of utmost importance for children and adults when changing nappies and/or assisting children with toileting. Children’s self-esteem and confidence will be considered in assisting them with toilet training.

• Toilet training will be in conjunction with the child’s parents/guardians

51 | P a g e

beliefs and practices within the home • Children will be encouraged positively and praise will be given freely for

children who are toilet training • Accidents are to be expected when children are toilet training. Children

will not be made to feel poorly if they have a toilet training accident • Accidents will be cleaned with a designated mop and bucket with

disinfectant made to correct mix ratios • Parents are to provide a spare change of clothes each day in the child’s

bag • Soiled or wet clothing will be put into a plastic bag for parents to collect

for laundering. • If a child is wet or soiled and no spare clothes are supplied from home,

staff will provide children with spare clothes where available. These clothes will need to be laundered by the family and returned to the Centre as soon as possible

• Children will be encouraged to wash their hands after going to the toilet. Staff will also wash their hands after assisting children on the toilet.

• Children will be instructed of the importance of hand washing after going to the toilet

• Disposable nappies are preferred by the Centre for health and safety reasons.

• We are aware that not all families are happy using disposable nappies, therefore, if families would prefer to use cloth nappies they are to provide a stock of cloth nappies, along with pins or fasteners stored in a container and plastic protective pants for covering the nappy which will be stored in the child’s bag.

• Soiled cloth nappies will be rinsed in the toilet and stored in a double plastic bag for families to collect at the end of the day. If there are not enough nappies supplied and the child needs to be changed, a disposable nappy will be used.

• Help child to use toilet. Use toilet rather than potty chair. If potty chair must be used, empty contents and wash chair with detergent and warm water. Do not wash potty in sink used for hand washing.

• Children, especially girls, should be encouraged to wipe front to back.

Date that the policy was last updated or revised: 5/7/2013 Sourced: Staying Healthy – Preventing infectious diseases in Early Childhood Education and Care Services. Fifth Edition Policy Statement: The centre aims to provide a healthy environment in which children will grow and learn about the world around them. The application of preventative measures through an infection control process aims to prevent the spread of infections and will be followed by all people in the outside school hours centre at all times. How Policy will be Implemented (Specific Policies & Procedures): Hygiene

52 | P a g e

Hand washing is considered to be the most effective way of controlling infection in the centre. Staff and children should wash their hands:

• Before all clean tasks eg handling and preparing food and eating after all dirty tasks eg toileting, cleaning up faeces, vomit or blood, wiping a nose, playing outside, and handling animals.

• The proper technique for washing hands is to: o Use liquid soap and running water o Wash your hands thoroughly while counting slowly from 1 to

10(15 seconds) o Rinse your hands while slowly counting from 1 to 10 o Turn off the tap with paper towel o Dry hands well with new paper towel

Notices which clearly explain effective hand washing procedures will be displayed next to hand washing basins.

• The centre will ensure that toilets and hand washing facilities are easily

accessible to children. Children will be encouraged to flush toilets and was hands after use.

• Staff will use separate cloths or tissues for wiping different children’s faces and noses. Tissues will be disposed of immediately after wiping a child’s nose.

• Toys, equipment and dress-up clothes will be washed regularly in hot soapy water and one criteria for selecting new toys will be their ease to clean.

• Surfaces will be cleaned with detergent after each activity and all surfaces cleaned thoroughly daily. Areas contaminated with body fluids will be disinfected with 1:20 bleach solution after washing.

• Each child will be provided with their own drinking and eating utensils at each mealtime. These utensils will be washed after each use. Staff will encourage children not to use drinking or eating utensils which have been used by another child or dropped on the floor.

• Staff will ensure that children do not eat food that has been handled by another child (except where a child has washed their hands and is helping to prepare food), or that has been dropped on the floor.

• Food will be prepared; kept and served hygienically. (Health (Food Hygiene) Regulations 1993 (WA).)

Preparing Food If you are involved in handling, preparing or serving food:

• Wash & dry hands. • Cover wounds • Prevent cross contamination between raw and cooked foods • The legal requirement for reheating food is 60º but recommended it is

heated to 70˚ for two minutes. • Ensure the food is allowed to cool before it is given to the child to eat. • Check fridge temperature is 5˚ or less.

53 | P a g e

• Throw out left-overs. • Heat food only once. • Heat milk for bottles once only.

Serving Food

• Before meals, clean tables that are to be used for the meals. • Wash and dry your hands before preparing or serving food. • Check the children’s hands are washed before they eat or drink. • Teach children to turn away from food when they cough or sneeze, then

wash and dry their hands. • When serving themselves children must be supervised. • Use a separate spoon for each child.

Sourced May 2009—”Staying Healthy in Childcare” 4th Edition

• The principles of hygiene will be included in the child’s program and staff will initiate discussion about these subjects with groups and individual children at appropriate times.

• Information on hygiene principles and practices will be displayed in the reception area and drawn to the attention of all parents on a regular basis.

License

Purpose: To abide by the Education and Care Services National Law (WA) Act 2012 Policy: The Centre will ensure that all practices within its operation are according to

the criteria set down by the department of Community Services Licensing Board Officers.

Parents may contact the Licensing Board at any time should they have any queries regarding the Regulations and Licensing of any Child Care Service.

Department for Communities Education and Care Regulatory Unit 111 Wellington Street East Perth WA6004 Phone (08) 6210 3333, 1800 199 383 (toll free), Fax (08) 6210 3300 Lost property

Purpose: To dispose of Lost Property in the most appropriate manner. Policy:

• All parents are requested to mark all children’s possessions clearly with their name.

• It items are not labelled, they will become Lost Property and displayed in a prominent place for claiming.

54 | P a g e

• Although caregivers will take utmost care with children’s personal belongings, no responsibility will be accepted by the Centre for items which may be lost.

• If items are not claimed, they become the property of the Centre to be used as desired.

Parents grievance procedure

Purpose: To provide parents with appropriate mechanisms for raising their concerns

and having them addressed. Policy: We aim to provide a Children’s Service that is satisfactory to all of our

families. If at any time parents have concerns about any aspects of their child’s care, then the following procedure will take place.

Procedure:

• When parents have a concern they are requested to bring the matter, in

the first instance, to the primary caregiver relating to their child. • If parents are not satisfied, having completed the above, or if they decide

the matter would be more appropriately addressed by the Manager, then they approach the Manager for an appointment.

• If the concern is still with the parents, then the next appropriate step is to approach the Executive Director of the total Catherine McAuley Family Centre.

• Every effort will be made at each level within the Centre to hear and resolve genuine concerns of parents. Grievances and complaints made by families will be investigated, addressed and documented in a timely manner. Management will track the progress of each complaint or grievance as it proceeds from acknowledgement to investigation to resolution. However, we reserve the right to maintain our standards and to conduct the Centre according to our stated philosophy.

• Management will advise the outcome of investigations. • An external review is available if necessary. • Patterns of complaints are analysed and tracked. • Grievances and complaints are reviewed and evaluated as necessary.

Reviewed: August 2012 MercyCare supports the Equal Opportunities Commission and its objectives. If any parent of a child who is considered at risk or a single parent feels that they are being discriminated against then they can contact the Equal Opportunities Commission on Ph: 9216 3900 or attend Level 2, 141 St Georges Terrace Perth.

55 | P a g e

Programs

• A variety of activities will be provided that give children the opportunity to practice skills in all developmental areas, while also catering for interests, needs and providing enjoyment for all children

• Activities are to be provided in both structured and unstructured learning times, that cater for children’s individual needs and interests and are age appropriate

• Information will be gathered from families upon enrolment regarding the child’s needs, interest and family backgrounds. This information is treated confidentially and allows Educators to provide experiences that interest and extends children’s current development. We feel that it is important to develop a partnership between parents and Educators to ensure that consistency between home and the Service occurs and that the best possible care is provided

• The program reflects a Reggio Emilia philosophy with the foundation of the Early Years Learning Framework

• Children, parents and educators will be encouraged to work together in the development of the program being offered within the Service

• A conscience balance between indoor and outdoor experiences will be planned for

• A program that supports the development of each child’s social, physical, emotional, cognitive, language and creative potential will be adopted in the Service

• The program will be guided by observations on children that have been reflected on and then followed up as per our programming procedure.

• Observations and / or jottings will be carried out by the group Educators on the children, documenting their skills and interests. This information will be used to program suitable activities, which reflect the children’s interests in the style of the Emergent Curriculum. The programs will be displayed within the Service for parents and visitors to view. Completed observations are kept in a confidential file

• Educators from each group work together to produce an interest based, child Serviced program. This program will be evaluated and extended upon daily, then weekly.

• Through interacting with children during unstructured learning times Educators are able to discover the child’s interests and extend upon these in a relaxed, spontaneous atmosphere. Educators will interact with children in a way that encourages and challenges them to extend their thinking & interests

• The rooms are set up with designated areas, which remain the same for consistency, only changing to support children’s interests or safety. The children are provided with a large range of choices of activities and are responsible for packing away these activities when they are finished with a particular project. We wish to instil in children care and respect for their equipment.

• The environment and program will be engaging and supportive of each child’s interests and needs.

• The environment and program will encourage free choice in selection of activities. • Portfolios will be given to families at the end of the year to review and discuss. It

is hoped that the portfolios provide an accurate and precise record of each child’s development and time spent at Preschool.

56 | P a g e

• Transition from one room to another within the Service will be done with consultation with the family of the child, the current Educator and the new Educator. While the transition will be more than likely instigated because of age, a child will not be forced to progress or held back in a particular room because of their age. Developmental maturity including emotional maturity will be a contributing factor if agreed by all parties.

• Transition will be introduced over a period of three weeks to allow the child to feel comfortable and settled in the new environment.

Date that the policy was last updated or revised: 20 / 8/ 20 12

Family communication policy

The Service appreciates and respects the convenience of each family and their preference in communication.

• The Service will offer mediums of communication such as email, verbal, communal signage in the service, newsletters, communication book, sign-in sheets, Notice Board and notes sent home.

• The Service will value the input and feedback from families and endeavour to implement as much family involvement and ideas as possible.

• Families will always have the Policy Manual available for their perusal and reviewal. Any comments will be noted and discussed.

• Each child’s developmental records will be made available to their family and the opportunity for a confidential consultation with the child’s Educator will be made available at the family’s convenience.

• Families of the Nursery will have an individual communication book made for their child to strengthen the line of communication between the Service and the family.

• All information shared is treated as strictly confidential. • Families who require interpretive services will be supported by the Service in

making Polices and other information available in their preferred language. • A plan will be developed and supported by the Service to support children who

are using specialised professionals to create continuity between all involved. • Families will be asked to update their personal information throughout the year to

ensure that the Service has the most recent information available Date that the policy was last updated or revised: 21 / 05 / 2012

57 | P a g e

Interactions policy

• Children will be encouraged to display socially acceptable behaviour and language when dealing with their peers.

• Appropriate language and behaviour will be role modelled by Educators. • Educators will help children to be aware of the feelings of others. • Children are encouraged to treat all children as their friend. • Positive communication and mutual respect that is role modelled by staff will

benefit children in their development of similar skills along with increasing their self-esteem and self confidence

• Children will be spoken to in a positive manner at all times. • Primary contact Educators will interact with children in a way that ensures that

children are guided towards positive responsible behaviour. • Educators will listen to children and take them seriously; they will support and

encourage children to use appropriate language in their interactions with adults and peers. Educators will extend upon children’s interests through questions and discussions.

• Communication with children will be down on the child’s level as this shows respect to the child, allows for eye contact to occur and therefore promotes effective communication

• Educators will encourage and be involved in spontaneous interaction • Educators will always use appropriate language keeping in mind that they are

powerful influences in children’s lives and are very active role models • Educators will ensure that the dignity and rights of each child are respected at all

times • Educators will show empathy to children • Educators will ensure that the values, beliefs and cultural practices of the child

and family are respected and considered • Educators will ensure that children are not forced to eat or sleep against their

wishes or needs • No child is ever isolated for any reason other than illness, accident or pre-

arranged appointment with parental consent. During this time they will be under adult supervision

• Encouragement and praise is given freely regardless of success • Professional communication is very important to make a happy work environment

and to build a positive relationship with families. Communication amongst colleagues creates a positive atmosphere and a professional service for families. Communication between staff and families ensures that important information is being passed on and that consistency occurs.

• Educators are to show respect for one another • All duties within the room are to be shared and Educators are responsible for

ensuring this occurs through the use of a roster where necessary • Educators are to listen to each other’s point of view and ideas • Communication is required to ensure that the teamwork occurs • In-service training on communication will be encouraged to update and refresh

knowledge • Educators will acknowledge parents as a valuable source of information on their

child • Educators are to greet parents as well as children upon arrival

58 | P a g e

• Educators are to encourage two way communication through leading by example and asking questions

• Educators are to use easy to understand terms when talking to parents regarding their child’s development

• Educators are never to discuss another child with a parent or visitor • Educators are to be sensitive to cultural differences amongst families and are to

encourage families to share cultural aspects with the children and Educators at the Centre

• Educators will always endeavour and seek the advice and opinion from experts to help with regard to a child with additional needs or support a family through resources available from such support agencies as KU Inclusion Support Agency, Area Health or the private sector.

• Staff will endeavour to recognise and implement a number of different ways to communicate with families in their preferred chosen way.

• Verbal communication will always be open, respectful and honest. • Centre information, updates and notices will be made available via the

Newsletter, communal signs, emails and sign-in sheets. Date that the policy was last updated or revised: 21 / 05 / 2012

Electronic / media policy

Electronic / Media items will only be used as an extension to the daily program assisting in development of social, physical, emotional, cognitive, language and creative potential of each child Electronic / Media items will be used as an additional resource, not a substitute. Guidelines for use would be:

• To assist in expanding the content of the daily program and current affairs • Be suitable to the needs and development levels of each child watching • Chosen programs should hold the interests of the children • Programs must be carefully selected with suitable content • Programs depicting violence e.g. graphic news reports should not be shown • Children are to view “G” rated programs only

Reviewed: August 2012 Programs - Children with individual needs

Policy: Educators will ensure that all children are treated equally and fairly and that each child will have the opportunity to grow and develop to their potential.

Procedure: • Educators will treat all children equally and fairly regardless of perceived

differences • Educators will act as advocates for children’s rights

59 | P a g e

• Educators will program activities to suit individual needs, strengths and interests

• All children will have the opportunity to explore differences within their play in a non-threatening way in order for them to become more comfortable with, and aware of, diversity

• Children are encouraged to treat all peers equally and fairly • Educators will act as role models by displaying appropriate behaviour and

language • Children and Educators will discuss feelings of others and how we can

make people feel happy and appreciated rather than sad, etc. • No information regarding a child will be given out to a person who is not

that child’s parent or guardian, without the parent/guardians permission • Educators will liaise with parents regarding their child’s strengths and

needs and will work with the parent to ensure the best care possible for the child

• Educators will work with other professionals who play a role in supporting the child’s development

• Educators will not judge or compare a child’s development with another • All children will be treated as individuals • Staff will seek specific professional intervention and training to support a

child in our care. Date that the policy was last updated or revised: 16 / 03 / 2012

Programs – Anti bias/equity

It is important for all children to be part of a non-biased environment, incorporating a range of experiences and practising attitudes which will allow equal opportunities and promote anti-biased behaviours. This can be done by ensuring the Centre program will:

• Give all children the right to develop to their full potential regardless of gender.

• Allow all children equal opportunity to participate in all aspects of the program.

• Equally encourage all children to develop their skills and potential. • Ensure every individual child is valued regardless of their gender, ability

or socio economic situation. All staff will ensure to:

• Be aware of personal beliefs and ensure that they are not transferred to the children through verbal or non verbal language.

• Be aware of the way staff express themselves, using positive generic terms ie Police Officer not Policeman/woman.

• Respect and treat all children equally regardless of gender. • Actively and consistently encourage as well as assist children to

participate in activities and experiences, especially if they have been traditionally dominated by one sex.

• Ensure that children with additional needs are not segregated of nominated for special activities because of those needs.

60 | P a g e

• Ensure that they use specialist agencies such as The Autistic Association or RUCSN to learn how to effectively integrate children with additional needs.

Reviewed: August 2012 Programs - Multicultural / religious beliefs policy

We strive to appreciate and acknowledge a wide variety of culture, ensuring that children learn about diversity and that all children feel that their own cultures are important and valued

• All children and families will be treated equally and fairly and with respect • Background information on families will be asked for on the child’s

enrolment form to allow us to have an insight into the child and family’s beliefs and values and to therefore meet a variety of needs more effectively

• All Parents will be asked to volunteer their time and resources to extend multicultural learning of children and staff

• Educators will advocate and support the maintenance of the family’s home language in conjunction with their wishes

• Staff are sensitive to specific cultural behaviour, which may be different to their own beliefs

• Various religious beliefs are respected and the family consulted to enable Educators to meet their needs within the program and daily routine

• Staff will plan and provide children with experiences that include multicultural awareness as a regular part of the curriculum

• All information regarding the Service can be made available in another language other than English on request. Translation assistance can be offered to families which do not use English as their first language.

Date that the policy was last updated or revised: 14/ 05/ 2012 Environmental sustainability policy

As a community, we can create, encourage and increase awareness of environmental responsibility and guide Centre practices. These practices need to be eco-friendly and involve staff, children and families to be successful. We will do this by ensuring that:

• The Service will ensure the Centre is safe, clean and maintained. • The Mercy Child Care will promote children’s awareness of the

environment through daily practices within the routine and program, resources and interactions.

• The Mercy Child Care encourages sustainable practices within the Service and encourages staff, children and families to become advocates for a “green” environment.

Focus and attention will be on:

• Recycling

61 | P a g e

• Gardening • Energy conservation • Water conservation • Sustainable equipment purchases

Date that the policy was last updated or revised: 9 / 08 / 2012

Parents participation / open door policy

Purpose: To give direction regarding parental participation in the Centre. Policy: Participation in the Centre is the right of parents. Procedure:

• Parental involvement in the program is encouraged and welcomed. Non-involvement is never regarded as disinterest.

• Parents have a vital contribution to make and have skills and experience which will enhance the life of the Centre. The caregivers, for their part, look forward to parental involvement and support.

• There is little doubt that this involvement has the potential to equalise the relationship between caregivers and parents. It enables parents to become more aware of the problems caregivers experience, whilst at the same time developing an awareness of what is involved in the daily program.

• We recognise that some parents of children attending the Centre often will not have time to participate actively. This does not mean they are not interested in , nor abdicate their rights to have a voice in the decision making process.

• Parents are given the opportunity to be involved in the Centre in the way which suits them best, whether it be attending a parent groups in the daily program, fundraising efforts or attending social functions.

• The Centre will ensure that a parent of an enrolled child is able to visit the Centre at any reasonable time.

Reviewed: August 2012 Records

Purpose: To ensure that records of children attending child care are kept for the

appropriate time as stated in Education and Care Services National Law (WA) Act 2012.

Policy: Administration staff will ensure records of children attending care are retained

and stored in an appropriate secure location.

62 | P a g e

Procedure:

• Enrolment, medication and accident forms of children attending care will be retained for 24 years.

• Records of a death of a child during a care session must be retained for 6 years.

• Attendance records of children’s care to be retained for 3 years. • Excursion records to be retained for 3 months. • Records of emergency rehearsal procedures are to be retained for 3

years. • Staff records including Attendance, Courses Attended, First Aid,

Resuscitation, Swimming and Water Rescue to be retained for 3 years. • Program of children’s activities to be retained for 3 months. • Authorisation for a child to move up to an age range that is up to 6

months higher than child’s actual age. Records to be retained for a period of 3 years.

• The centre will ensure they comply with staffing supervision as specified in Education and Care Services National (WA) Act 2012.

INSURANCE The Centre holds a current policy of insurance against public liability.

63 | P a g e

The Policies and Procedures contained in this book have been taken from the following resource agencies and have been on display for parents to comment on. All Policies have been passed by staff and are current . All the following Policies were reviewed and changed in 2005 in consultation with staff and parents. The Policies are reviewed on an annual basis. After Hours Policy & Procedure: Taken from recommendations by DCD and the Childcare Licensing Board on how to care for children left after hours. Nappy Changing Routine: Our nappy changing routine is made up from the latest information from Staying Healthy in Childcare. (Displayed in rooms.) Infection Control, Sickness, Hand Washing Policies & Procedures: All taken from the latest information from Staying Healthy in Childcare. Cleaning Policy & Procedures: Taken from the latest information from Staying Healthy in Childcare. (Displayed in rooms.) Suncare Policy and Weather Policy & Procedure: Taken from latest information from Cancer Council of Australia 2011. Nutrition, Snack, Meal time and Cooking Practices & Procedures: Taken from latest information from Start Right Eat Right Award. Dietary Guidelines for Children and Adolescents in Australia 2003—Sourced—September 2009: Bullying Policy: Taken from the latest information from CSSU regarding school policies on bullying and recommended procedures to deal with it. Suspected Child Abuse and Child Protection Policy: Taken from Managing Critical Incidents and preventative strategies from Family & Children’s Services. (Copies in office.) Dental Care Policy & Procedure: Taken from Information from Policies to go By from CSSU and from Start Right Eat Right Information. Also taken from pamphlets from Dental Professionals CSSU Policies to Go By … for Child Care Centres: Edition 2001 National Childcare Accreditation Council: Quality Practises Guide Dietary Guidelines for Children and Adolescents in Australia 2003 Sids & Kids Safe Sleeping literature—2009 Australian National Transport Commission. National Occupational Health & Safety Commission ”Staying Healthy in Childcare” 4th Edition Occupational Health & Safety Act 2000. Sun Protection in the Workplace The Cancer Council Aust. April 2009 Mandatory Reporting of Child Sexual Abuse in WA. Government of WA Department of Child Protection 2009. April 2009

64 | P a g e

Orientation Satisfaction Survey for New Parents At Mercy Child Day Care we are committed to improving the service that we are offering. One of the most important procedures that we undertake is the initial connection we make with families. We ask that families complete the following survey and the information will be used to critique the Service’s orientation process.

• Please rate the following with a rating of 1 meaning needs improvement and a rating of 5 meaning outstanding;

Content of information provided in the orientation package: 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5. Content of information provided verbally: 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5. Friendliness of staff: 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5. Thoroughness of orientation: 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5. Punctuality of staff: 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5.

• Please answer Yes or No to the following:

Were you shown thoroughly through your child's room? YES or NO Did staff support you when leaving your child? YES or NO Were you given adequate suggestions on settling your child? YES or NO Were you provided with sufficient information prior to orientation? YES or NO Was the centre welcoming? YES or NO Was the time nominated suitable for you? YES or NO Were you introduced to your child's care educators? YES or NO Were you introduced to all staff members? YES or NO Were you shown the signing in and out requirements? YES or NO Were you given a tour of the centre? YES or NO Were you given an opportunity to ask questions? YES or NO Were your questions adequately answered? YES or NO Were you provided with an Information Booklet? YES or NO Did you find the information in the booklet useful? YES or NO

• Please identify 3 areas that could be improved:

• Please identify 3 areas that met your needs:

65 | P a g e

Thank you for your assistance. Template EXCURSION PLAN: (Group Leader to complete prior to excursion) Date of Excursion: Nature of Excursion: Location: Time of Excursion: Departure: Return: Allergies/Fears: Program of Activities to be undertaken: Cost: Supervision - Carers Attending: Volunteers/Parents Attending: Transport: Food & Drink: Toilet facilities: Potential Hazards of Excursion (if any): Contingency plan for inclement weather: Emergency plan: Safety measures: Mobile Phones: List of Children and Parent Contact Numbers: First Aid Kit: Parent Permission Slips:

66 | P a g e

Special Diet Record Child’s Name: _______________________ Date of Birth: _____________________ Parent/Guardian Names: ________________________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________________________ Phone (H): ________________ (W): ______________ (M): ____________________ 1. Reason for special diet: Religious _ Health/Medical _ Other _ Please Specify____________

2. What are the foods and substances that your child must avoid? ________________ 3. What are the alternative foods that your child can consume? (eg. Eggs, dairy, nuts, tofu, beans instead of meat for vegetarian diets 4. How long will your child be on this special diet? ___________________________ 5. Who will provide the following foods for your child while in care? Snacks: ______________________________ Parent _ Centre _ Lunch: _______________________________ Parent _ Centre _ Drinks: ______________________________ Parent _ Centre _ In cases of very restrictive diets it is recommended that you provide most, or all of the food. 6. Do you want to discuss with staff the programs involving food (eg parties, menu plans, food experience activities)? Yes _ No _ To enable the centre to continue to provide your child with adequate nutrition, this record will be reviewed every 6 months or whenever there is more up to date information available. Parent/Guardian Signature __________________ Date: __________________

67 | P a g e

Emergency Action Plan Insert recent Photo of child Child’s Name: _______________________ Date of Birth: ________ Parent/Guardian Names: ___________________________________ Ambulance: 000 - Give centre address, closest cross street, phone number, name and age of child and explain child’s symptoms. Medic Alert Number (if relevant): ____________ Action Plan Review Date _______ CHILDS MEDICAL CONDITION & TRIGGERS SYMPTOMS Mild: ACTION TO BE TAKEN BY STAFF Severe: AUTHORISATION AND RELEASE Medical Practitioner………………………………. Professional Role………………. Address………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………. Signature…………………………………. Date……………………………………… I have read, understood and agree to the actions to be taken by Centre staff detailed in this plan. I approve the release of this information to child care staff and emergency personnel and give my consent for this form (and my child’s photograph) to be displayed at the Centre in view of staff who are caring for my child. Parent/Guardian ……………….. Signature……………………… Date……………… The Centre accepts no liability for any actions taken in line with this plan which have been authorised by the parent/guardian in signing this form.

policy handbook july 2013 final

Documents

fee policy

child care children

absent staff

day care policies

contact staff requirements

transport procedures

enrolments priority

vacant places