Montessori Works

Index of Centre Policy Documents

Accident & Illness and Emergency Treatment Policy. 6

Procedure for Treating Children Who Become ill at the Centre.. 8

Procedure for Calling an Ambulance.. 10

If The Child Is Taken To a Doctor or Hospital (Centre Records) 12

Accident Prevention Policy. 13

Accreditation Policy. 16

Active Play Policy. 18

Administering Medications Policy. 20

Assessing Serious or Potential Infectious Diseases Policy. 25

Authorisation for Application of First Aid & Other Health Products. 28

Authority for Administration of Paracetamol in an Emergency. 30

Anti Bias Policy. 32

Anti Gender Bias Policy. 34

Allergies & Anaphylaxis -  Reducing The Risk. 36

Aim.. 36

Relevant Legislation. 36

Arrival and Departure Policy. 38

Asthma Policy. 42

Asthma Record.. 45

Bullying Policy. 47

Child and Staff Immunisation Policy. 49

Child Health Policy. 53

Child Hygiene Policy. 55

Child Health - Request for Medical Information. 57

Child Protection Policy. 60

Staff and Family Relationships. 74

Positive Guidance of Children’s Behaviour Policy. 76

Clothing Policy. 79

Confidentiality Policy. 81

Continuity of Care Policy. 85

Cook’s Job Description. 87

Cultural Relevance Policy. 89

Dangerous Chemicals and Substances Policy. 92

Death of a Child Policy. 96

Dental Care Policy. 97

Dental Accidents Policy. 99

Director – Job Description. 101

Equipment Policy. 105

Ethical Conduct Policy. 107

Excursion Policy. 110

 EXCURSION PERMISSION FORM    113

EXCURSION PERMISSION FORM... 114

Staff Member:_. 115

Family Law and Access Policy. 120

Fees Policy. 123

Food and Nutrition Policy. 125

Food Preparation Policy. 128

Food and Nutrition at Home.. 130

Food Safety & Hygiene Policy. 133

Food Storage Policy. 136

Hand Washing Policy. 138

Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection, AIDS Virus Policy. 140

Inclusion Policy. 142

Infectious Diseases Policy. 144

Indoor Safety Checklist 151

Interactions with Children Policy. 152

Kitchen Policy. 155

Lockdown Policy. 157

Safety Checks and Maintenance of Buildings and Equipment Policy. 159

Checklist – Indoor 162

Management Participation Policy. 165

Management to Staff Communication Policy. 167

Minimising the use of potentially dangerous substances Policy. 169

Multicultural Policy. 173

Notifiable Disease Policy. 175

Occupational Health & Safety Policy. 177

Open Doors Policy. 181

Outdoors Safety Checklist 182

Outside hours coordinator policy. 183

Parent Communication Policy. 185

Parents Grievance Policy. 187

Parental and Family Involvement Policy. 189

Parent Survey Template.. 191

Personal Hygiene Policy. 193

Pet Policy. 195

Poison Safety Checklist 197

Policy Review Policy. 198

Priority of Access Policy. 200

Privacy, Security and Confidentiality of Records Policy. 202

What information do we collect, why and how it is used?. 202

Professional Development and Training Policy. 204

Program, Education and Development Policy. 207

Protective Behaviours Policy. 210

Routine Policy. 212

Severe Allergy Policy. 214

Sleep/rest for Children Policy. 216

Safe Sleeping (under two year olds) 218

Staff & Parent Relationship Policy. 220

Staff Grievance Policy. 222

Staff Meeting Policy. 224

Staff Orientation Policy. 226

Staff returning after a period of extended leave Policy. 228

Staff to Staff Interaction Policy. 229

Sun Protection Policy. 232

Supervision of Children Policy. 236

Toileting & Nappy Change Policy. 238

Nappy Change Procedure.. 240

Toileting Procedure.. 241

Toy Cleaning Policy. 242

Transition Policy. 245

Treatment of Children with Special Needs Policy. 247

Catering For Special Needs. 249

TV & Video Policy. 251

Water Safety Policy. 253

 page 6.Accident & Illness and Emergency Treatment Policy

 Aim

The Centre and all staff members can effectively respond to and manage accidents, illness and emergencies

which occur at the Centre to ensure the safety and wellbeing of children, staff and visitors.

Legislative Requirements

The Centre and all staff members must ensure all operations are compliant to the following Acts/Regulations

as required by the State of New South Wales. Failure to meet the below requirements is a criminal offence

and may result in fines of up to $22,000.

Children’s Services Regulations 2004 www.community.nsw.gov.au

 Review

The policy will be reviewed annually.

The review will be conducted by:

·        Management

·        Employees

·        Families

·        Interested Parties

 Last reviewed: 7.01.2010                      Date for next review: AGM 2010

 The Centre and all staff members must ensure all operations are compliant to the following Acts/Regulations as required by the State of New South Wales.

Failure to meet the below requirements is a criminal offence and may result in fines of up to $22,000.

PROCEDURE

·         The Record of Illness form must be completed for any child who becomes ill during the day.  Illness may include fever, vomiting, diarrhoea etc.

·         The Department of Community Services (“DoCS”) requires the Authorised Supervisor to keep a record of any particulars of treatment

given to a child at the Centre and must be advised if a child is hospitalised.

·         Notifying accidents to DoCS – only notify accidents that require the child concerned to receive medical, dental or hospital treatment.

The following form must be completed and forwarded to DoCs: Notification of Serious Accident at Children’s Service - CSDF 12 (clause 80).

·         Assess the child’s state of health in consultation with a staff member holding a First Aid Certificate.

·         Inform the Centre Director/Co-ordinator.

·         Inform the parent as soon as practically possible and if necessary, confirm permission for Panadol.

·         Staff MUST attempt to contact the parent/emergency contact to inform them of the child’s illness/fever and

to discuss an appropriate course of action (eg. confirm permission for Panadol).

·         If the child has a fever and the parent cannot be contacted in reasonable time, staff must check the enrolment form for parental permission for Panadol.

·         Administer appropriate treatment.

·         Complete the Record of Illness form ensuring details for medication are completed.

·         Ensure the parent signs the Record of Illness form and is given a copy.

·         The Record of Illness form is to be retained until the child is 24 years of age.

Aim

The Centre will ensure immediate action and appropriate procedures are undertaken in a medical, dental emergency or accident when contacting an ambulance.

In a medical or dental emergency or an accident involving a Centre staff, child, other staff member, or visitor – the Centre staff or

the Centre manager has a duty of care to take immediate action and provide appropriate services or care to prevent further injury or death. 

 Prior authorisation must be obtained from a parent upon enrolment for a child to be provided with assistance, or call a doctor, dentist, ambulance,

 other person or service as is considered appropriate for the situation.

Relevant Legislation

Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 and Regulations 2001

Children’s Services Regulation 2004

Who is affected by this policy?

Child

Staff

Families

Management

Visitors

 Implementation

To ensure immediate action and appropriate procedures are undertaken in a medical, dental emergency or accident when contacting an ambulance, the Centre will:

Assess the injury or illness, the severity and degree of urgency; administer first aid or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) as appropriate, call for an ambulance dial 000.

Provide the following information:

·         Caller’s name, the name of the Centre, address and phone number.

·         Whether an ambulance, the police or fire brigade is required.

·         The name of the ill or injured person.

·         Whether they are an infant, child or an adult.

·         The name of the next of kin, parent or guardian.

·         The nature of the illness, injury or emergency.

·         An assessment of the severity of the illness or injury.

·         With the ambulance, state the urgency of the situation.

·         If the person is unconscious, whether they are breathing or have a pulse.

·         If the person is bleeding severely, or appears to have a major injury, or has a head injury, or is cyanosed (a ‘blue’ colour).

·         The first aid or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) action that is being taken.

·         A staff member will accompany the injured child in the ambulance to the hospital until the child’s family arrives. 

The Centre will be adequately staffed and have a plan in place in case a staff member is required to accompany the child to hospital.

·         Inform the child’s parent, guardian, emergency contact or the designated responsible person that you have called an ambulance,

the nature of the emergency, action taken or first aid provided, and the hospital the child was transferred to.

·         Follow up any required advice or action.

·         Fill in Accident/Injury/Acute Illness Report Form, provide copies of form and other documentation to the parent. 

If a death of a child occurs, inform the police, WorkCover NSW and the Director-General of Community Services.

Source

Putting Children First:  Quality Improvement & Accreditation System Source Book, NCAC, 2001;

Health & Safety in Children’s Centres; Model Policies and Practices 2003.

 Review

The policy will be reviewed annually.

The review will be conducted by:

·        Management

·        Employees

·        Families

·        Interested Parties

 Last reviewed: 7.01.2010                 Date for next review: AGM 2010

 Food intake at Centre: _____________________________________________________

Time: _________________________                        Amount: _________________________

Drink at the Centre: _______________________________________________________

Time: _________________________                        Amount: _________________________

Medication administered at the Centre: _______________________________________

Time: _________________________                        Amount: _________________________

 Licensing Contact   ph                               Date                              Time

Who contacted:

Further information regarding the outcome of child’s injury/treatment:

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

page13 Accident Prevention Policy

 Aim

Staff should be able to identify hazards in each developmental stage, and take all precautions necessary to avert such accidents.

It is the responsibility of all staff members to increase and encourage parent/guardian and family awareness of accident prevention,

and of their child’s ability to learn safety habits at an early age.

Who is affected by this policy?

Child

Staff

Families

Management

Visitors

Implementation

·        The following precautionary measures are to be implemented in the Centre:

·        All chemical, cleaning and other products and medications are to be kept in their original containers, and

stored in cupboards not accessible to children. I.e. out of reach or with childproof locks.

·        Proper medication procedures must be followed at all times.

·        Children are to be prohibited access from the kitchen area, with the exception of children three years and over who may be

involved in a planned cooking experience. Such instances should be closely supervised by staff members.

·        Children are never left alone and/or unsupervised on change tables, in baths, in high chairs, or eating alone.

·        The temperature of hot water systems should be consistently set between 40-43 degrees Celsius.

·        The drinking of any hot beverage is to be restricted to childfree areas such as staff rooms.

Staff should not enter child rooms with hot beverages.

·        The Centre has an approved earth leakage circuit breaker fitted to the main power box and tested by an approved professional 

 to ensure that they are working and in order. Such devices are not to be relied solely as electrocutions are reduced by the

use of circuit breakers, rather than being prevented entirely.

·        Power points must have protective shutters, or be fitted with protective plugs.

·        Electrical appliances must not be used in wet areas.

·        Children should be taught to respect all electrical appliances by positive staff role modelling.

·        Avoid water on floors. Any spillages should be mopped up immediately and without undue delay.

Particular and close attention needs to be given to the bathroom area and lunch area during use periods.

·        All children must remain seated whilst eating during meal times.

 Babies should be closely supervised by staff at all times when drinking from a bottle.

·        Plastic bags are to be kept out of the reach of children and/or in locked cupboards.

·        Safe toys are to be used considering the relevant age of the child. I.e. avoid small removable parts for infants, choose durable toys,

avoid movable parts which may pinch the child, etc. All toys should be checked on regular basis to ensure they are in proper working order,

and repair or discard any broken toys.

·        All water play areas must be supervised by staff members at all times. Staff members should never leave buckets of water unattended.

·        All playgroup equipment must be checked daily for:

o        Stability

o        Broken pieces

o        Insect, spider and / or snake infestation.

·        All playground equipment must be checked for the following:

o        Provision of safety rails on platforms and equipment over 1.5 metres high

o        It should not be possible to fall from any structure onto an object below

o        Provision of clear landing places at the base of slides, etc.

o        Timber top edges should be rounded, and logs checked for splinters

o        Ensure there are no projections on sliding surfaces

o        Bolts should be counter-sunk

o        Check all structures regularly for stability

o        Check equipment for wear.

·        Boards are to be cared for properly to avoid cracking, i.e. never leave boards out when not in use, and

 regularly oil boards with recommended products.

·        Shock-absorbing surfaces should be implemented under play equipment.

·        Provide stable and permanent barriers to prevent children running into the path of moving objects such as swings and/or other play equipment.

·        Children must be supervised closely by staff members when using climbing equipment.

·        Any vertical railing such as ‘monkey bars’ in the Centre is to be no more than eight centimetres apart.

·        All playground equipment must be used with consideration of the child’s age and ability; e.g. it may be necessary to restrict younger children

using certain climbing equipment.

·        Refer to recent safety standards when purchasing equipment, e.g. the Choice Guild to Baby Products, and

where Australian Safety Standards approved items are available, these must be purchased in preference to others.

·        Display Emergency Exit procedures and complete practice drills on a quarterly basis.

·        Ensure all Centre fire extinguishers are reviewed annually and instruct all staff members on their proper usage.

 Sources

Children’s Services Regulations 2004 www.community.nsw.gov.au

Managing a Child Care Service: A hands on guide for service providers

Health & Safety in Children’s Centres Model Policies & Practices

 Review

The policy will be reviewed annually.

The review will be conducted by:

·        Management

·        Employees

·        Families

·        Interested Parties

 Last reviewed: 7.01.2010                      Date for next review: AGM 2010

page 16 Accreditation Policy

Aim

Montessori Works actively participates in the Quality Improvement & Accreditation System (QIAS).

The Centre’s aim is to provide the highest quality childcare available across all areas.

Legislative Requirements

Children’s Services Regulation’s 2004

 National Childcare Accreditation Council Quality Practices Guide 1^st Edition 2005

 A New tax System (Family Assistance) Act 1999

National Childcare Accreditation Council

Who is affected by this policy?

Staff

Families

Child

Management

Visitors

 Implementation

Our Centre participates in and values the Quality Improvement & Accreditation System (QIAS) – an Australian Government initiative

 linked to the funding of Child Care Benefit. 

This is conducted through the National Childcare Accreditation Council through scheduled validation visits and as of October 2006, spontaneous visits.

The QIAS provides standards of quality practices for care provided in our Centre as well as guidance and support from the Centre’s self evaluation. 

The system also allows staff members to continually improve practices by identifying the quality aspects of care the Centre is already providing and

assisting the Centre in developing goals for further improvement through a “continuing improvement plan”.

The Centre is required to complete a comprehensive self study every two & a half years.

The steps in the QIAS system are as follows:

STEP 1:            Registration

STEP 2:            Self Study & Continuing Improvement

STEP 3:            Validation

STEP 4:            Moderation

STEP 5:            Accreditation Decision

 The Centre will ensure that all staff members and management are informed about current practices and

requirements in the QIAS process by attending appropriate in-service/training, accessing any other publications and

information about the accreditation process that may be of benefit – including those published by the National Childcare Accreditation Council.

Staff members will involve parents, families and management in each stage to seek their input and views into practices and care in our Centre

– this includes having parent input into policy reviews, parent meetings and providing updates in newsletters about the Centre’s current stage in the process.

For more information about the Accreditation System, please see the QIAS Handbook (3^rd Ed, 2005) or visit NCAC’s website:  www.ncac.gov.au

 Sources

 Children’s Services Regulations 2004 www.community.nsw.gov.au

Quality Practices Guide 2005 1^st Edition www.ncac.gov.au

 Review

The policy will be reviewed annually.

T,, , , , he review will be conducted by:

·        Management

·        Employees

·        Families

  Interested Parties

 Reviewed: 7.01.2010                Date for next review: AGM 2010

 page 18 Active Play Policy

 In the past 10 years the prevalence of childhood obesity has increased considerably and there is growing recognition

of the need to establish positive attitudes to healthy lifestyle practices from an early age if this trend is to be reversed.

Childcare Centres provide ideal environments from which to develop these positive attitudes.

 Who is affected by this policy?

Child

Staff

Families

Management

 Implementation

 Children will be actively encouraged to accept and respect each other’s range of physical abilities.

Staff will create strategies to promote active play and its benefits to children.

Staff/carers consult with families and resource agencies on providing physical experiences that reflect diverse backgrounds and abilities.

Children will be dressed appropriately to support engagement in active play.

Staff will role model appropriate footwear.

The Centre will safe and adequate space in both indoor and outdoor play areas for physically active play.

Staff will engage children in physically active behaviours that are suitable for their developmental ability.

Staff will plan for opportunities for children to be more physically active by providing space and activities that vary on a daily basis in children’s play areas.

Staff will ensure a balance of active and sedentary activities throughout the child’s day, and minimize sedentary behaviours unless the child is tired or ill.

 Sources

 Children Service Regulation 2004

Physical activity guidelines for birth to five year olds (National Association for Sport and Physical Education, 2006)

 Review

 The policy will be reviewed annually.

The review will be conducted by:

Management

Employees

Families

Interested Parties

 Reviewed: 7.01.2010              Date for next review: AGM 2010

Aim

The Centre will facilitate effective care and health management of children who are taking medications

for health problems, prevention and management of acute episodes of illness or medical emergencies by

safely administering medication in compliance with the Regulation.

Legislative Requirements

The Centre and all staff members must ensure all operations are compliant to the following Acts/Regulations

as required by the State of New South Wales. Failure to meet the below requirements is a criminal offence and

may result in fines of up to $22,000.

 Who is affected by this policy?

Child

Staff

Families

Management

Visitors

Implementation

To facilitate effective care and health management of children who are taking medication for a health problem, prevention

and management of acute episodes of illness or medical emergencies requiring administration of medication, the Centre will:

 Ensure medication is administered to a child only from its original packaging. 

Prescribed medications must only be administered to the child for whom it has been prescribed, from a container bearing

 a pharmacy label showing the child’s name, and a current use by date, in accordance with any doctor’s instructions relating to the administration.

 Ensure families provide a summary of the child’s health, medications, allergies to medication or other substances,

the doctor’s name, address and phone number, and a First Aid Management Plan approved by their doctor if relevant, f

ollowing enrolment and prior to the child starting in the service.

Ensure medication is only administered to a child enrolled for the Centre with the written permission of the child’s parent or legal guardian.

This permission accompanied by parent/guardians signature.

If a staff member feels doubt about the safety of administering any medication or treatment, the children’s Centre staff should not administer

 the medication or treatment and refer the matter to the Director/Co-ordinator and seek advice from the parent, doctor, or the local Public Health Unit.

Before administering medication, check that the instructions on the Medication Authority Form are consistent with both the doctor’s instructions

and the name and instructions on the label. If there is any doubt or inconsistency, the children’s Centre staff or

Director should check with the doctor or pharmacist, and advise the parent if it is considered the medication should not be administered.

Ensure the children’s Centre staff member who is administering the medication has another staff member available to check the medication and dosage.

They must complete a Medication Authority Form and advise parents of any child to whom medication has been given the following:

·         name of the medication,

·         date, time, and dosage of administration,

·         name of the person who administered the medication,

·         name of the person who checked the medication

 Ensure a Medication Authority Form is completed and signed for every child and for each medication.

Keep the Medical Authority Form in a secure and confidential file, health records are required to be kept for a minimum of 6 years

or in the case of a child until the child turns 24 years old.

Ensure an individual medication history form is completed, filed and updated accordingly.

Advise parents and families that the administration of homeopathic, naturopathic, over-the-counter or non-prescribed medications

 (including cold preparations and paracetamol) also needs to meet minimum legislative requirements and these guidelines include

providing a Medication Authority Form, written instructions and dosage from a health professional prescribing or dispensing the medication.

 Do not give any unidentifiable medicine, or medicine that doesn’t meet the above guidelines.

Be aware that homeopathic, naturopathic, herbal and over-the-counter medications also have adverse effects and risks.

Be aware that antibiotic resistance is an emerging problem for children in child care, and staff administering antibiotics should ensure that

they are administered according to instructions and until the course is completed.

If any medical or first aid information, instructions or medication labels are written in a language other than English,

ask the family to obtain an English version from their doctor or pharmacist to provide to the children’s Centre.

In the case of medication being required in an emergency without prior consent, ensure every attempt is made to secure consent

from the child’s parent or legal guardian, or from a registered medical practitioner. In any emergency, if there is no immediate access to a parent,

 nominated responsible person, doctor, dentist or hospital call the ambulance service on 000.

Ensure families and carers understand and acknowledge each other’s responsibilities under the relevant legislation, the Centre policy and these guidelines.

Advise parents who leave medication to be administered without meeting the conditions of the relevant legislation and these guidelines

that the medications will not be administered, and medication prescribed for one child will not be administered to a sibling or another child.

Be informed of any child enrolled who has a chronic health problem such as asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, severe allergy, food allergy or anaphylaxis,

requires ongoing medication, or might require emergency medication, treatment or first aid.

Ensure medication is securely stored in a locked cupboard away from access by children. Medication that requires refrigeration

(e.g. eye drops, antibiotics, syrups) should be stored at the back of the top shelf, in a separate compartment, or in a childproof container

If any emergency arises where there is doubt or concerns about the child’s safety, the children’s Centre staff must act in the best interests

 of the child’s safety and health, by contacting the family, a doctor, the Director, or call 000 for an ambulance.

Ensure all medication, emergency treatment and medical management policies are consistent with what is required by the relevant legislation,

these guidelines and by the Centre’s public liability insurance policy.

Centre staff will at times out of necessity need to administer a child with medication. At such a time, the following will occur:

·         Centre staff will not administer medication to a child unless prescribed by a medical practitioner.

Over-the-counter drugs will be not given to a child unless accompanied by a medical certificate stating the child’s name,

 the required dosage and the length of time the dose is required for.

·         No medication will be given to a child unless in the original container.

·         Two staff members at all times will check the medication and dosage before it is given to a child and sign the Medical Authority Form.

Short Term Medications.

This term applies to medication that is only given for a short period of time, for example anti-biotics.

Family members are to complete a Medication Authority Form upon requestion the medication be given. This form should include:

·         The child’s name.

·         Identification of medication.

·         Purpose of Medication.

·         Required dosage of medication.

This needs to be completed everyday that a child needs to receive this medication.

Long Term Medications

This term applied when medications need to be administered to children over a long period of time e.g. asthma medication.

A child’s parent/caregiver are required to complete a Long Term Medication Authority Form when first requesting the medication

to be given to the child.

This form must be accompanied by a form from a Medical Practitioner which outlines:

·         The condition being treated.

·         The purpose of the medication.

·         Instructions on its administration.

·         Side effects to look out for.

·         An outline of the emergency care plan if needed.

This form must be renewed every 6 months.
Any Medication Authority form will be kept in a secure and confidential file until the child turns 24 years of age.

All medication kept at the Centre will be securely stored in a locked cupboard on high shelving.

Should the medication required refrigeration it will be placed on the highest shelf in the fridge in a childproof container.

If there is a disagreement within the family about a child taking a certain medication, including between custodial and

non-custodial relatives DoCS will be contacted for advice. No medication will be given up DoCS reaches a decision. 

No medication will be given out if these guidelines are not followed.

Source

Children Services Regulations 2004

Health and Safety in Children’s Centres Model Policies and Practices 2^nd edition 2003;

Staying Healthy in Child Care 4^th Edition,

 NHMRC, 2001: http://www.health.gov.au/nhmrc/

Review

The policy will be reviewed annually.

The review will be conducted by:

·        Management

·        Employees

·        Families

·        Interested Parties

 Last reviewed: 7.01.2010                 Date for next review: AGM 2010

page 25 Assessing Serious or Potential Infectious Diseases Policy

 Aim

The Centre will minimise the spread of potential infectious diseases between children, other children and children’s Centre staff,

by excluding children who may have an infectious disease or are too ill to attend care, and facilitating the prevention and effective management of acute illness in children.

Children might be brought to care with symptoms or signs of illness or while in care suddenly develop an illness that has not been diagnosed by a doctor,

and that might be potentially infectious or potentially life-threatening for the child. Symptoms may not clearly fit those listed in exclusion diseases

 making it difficult for the children’s Centre staff and Centre manager to decide whether to accept or exclude the child from care.

Many illnesses while not fitting exclusion criteria can transmit disease to other children in care, and many non-exclusion diseases

can make a child too ill to participate in normal care activities.

 Legislative Requirements

The Centre and all staff members must ensure all operations are compliant to the following Acts/Regulations as required by the State of New South Wales.

Failure to meet the below requirements is a criminal offence and may result in fines of up to $22,000.

 Who is affected by this policy?

Child

Staff

Families

Management

Visitors

 Implementation

 To minimise the spread of potential infectious disease between children, other healthy children and children’s Centre staff

and to minimise the detrimental impact on a sick child and the ability of the children’s Centre staff to safely supervise other children, Centres should:

 Advise families to always inform you when their child has been sick at home prior to bringing their child to care

so you can assess whether or not they are well enough to attend. Use this guide to assess whether the child is too ill to attend or needs to see a doctor,

inform the family that the child cannot attend until they have recovered or have a certificate from their doctor.

If you are having difficulty assessing whether a child is ill or not fit enough to attend care, discuss with the family and contact the child’s doctor if they consent.

If you are unable to contact the child’s doctor, contact:

·         another local doctor,

·         the local hospital or emergency department,

·         the local Public Health Unit.

Refer difficult or unresolved situations in relation to infectious diseases to the local Public Health Unit or Children’s Services Advisor.

Advise families to take a child with any of the illnesses or symptoms listed below or a child you believe to be acutely ill or infectious to their doctor.

Write a report and include any actions and decisions taken regarding excluding a child from care or advising families to take their child to a doctor.

Exclude a child and advise the family to take the child to a doctor if you consider:

·         the child has fever which has not yet been assessed by a doctor, or

·         the child has fever accompanied by abnormal behaviour or symptoms or signs that indicate a possible severe illness

 (such as lethargy, drowsiness, severe or prolonged coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, unusual irritability or crying), or

·         the child will be unable to participate in normal activities without possible detriment to their care and safety, or

·         the child will require extra supervision which may compromise the adequate supervision, care and safety of other children, or

·         the child needs to see a doctor for any reason.

Source

 Children’s Services Regulation 2004

Staying Healthy in Child Care, 4^th Edition, NHMRC, 2005.

Review

The policy will be reviewed annually.

The review will be conducted by:

·        Management

·        Employees

·        Families

·        Interested Parties

 Last reviewed: 7.01.2010                 Date for next review: AGM 2010

 Child’s Name:                                                           DOB:                                       Date:

The following first aid products are contained in the Centre’s first aid kit

and in other areas of the Centre. 

Please cross out and initial any product/s that you will not allow

to be applied to your child by Centre staff.

I agree that the above products, other than those crossed out,

may be applied to my child as basic first aid treatment.

page 30 Authority for Administration of Paracetamol in an Emergency

I __________________ (Parent/Guardian) authorise __________________ (Centre Manager) to administer

 one dose of paracetamol to my child ___________ (Child).

 I understand that this authority is a guideline for administration of a specific dose. 

 I understand that I will be contacted for my permission for each specific emergency. 

In the event of an emergency, I agree to collect my child as soon as possible.

I understand the potential risks and side effects of this medication for my child.

CHILD’S NAME:   _______________________________

Name, form (infant drops, elixir, suspension, tablet or suppository), and strength of the paracetamol:

Trade name:  _____________ Form and strength:  __________________________

Dosage to be administered (one only): __________________________

Condition or circumstance under which to be administered:____________________

Fever or temperature over:  _____________________

DOCTOR’S DETAILS:

Name:            ________________________________________________       

Address:         ________________________________________________

Telephone Number:            ________________________________________________

EMERGENCY CONTACT NAMES AND NUMBERS FOR CHILD:

Name:  ________________________  Telephone Number:  __________________

Name:  ________________________  Telephone Number:  ____________________

 page 32 Anti Bias Policy

Indicator 1.5.1 to be read with Anti Bias Policy

Aim

Pursuant of the Centre’s beliefs and aims, the Centre endeavours to respect and demonstrate awareness of and appreciation for

each individual’s uniqueness of background. Such factors include, but are not limited to, age, culture, ethnicity, traditions,

practices, beliefs, values, religion, gender, sexuality, special needs and/or socio-economic status.

Legislative Requirements

Children’s Services Regulations 2004

Anti Discrimination Act 1977 NSW

Equal Opportunity Act 1995

Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Act 1986

Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Regulations 1989

National Childcare Accreditation Council

Who is affected by this policy?

Child

Staff

Families

Management

 Implementation

In order to achieve this, staff members will:

Aim to develop each child’s capacity to recognise and avoid bias. Each child, with the guidance and mentoring of staff members, will develop

confident strategies to challenge or address bias towards themselves and/or others including children, staff members, visitors, families etc. 

This will also be supported by the development of positive attitudes (appreciation) and respect for each child and others regardless

of perceived similarities and/or differences.

All staff members and the Centre will encourage active appreciation of differences by using resource services,

materials, books, posters in the environment to help children explore, encourage education and understanding of such differences and similarities. 

This will include planned and spontaneous activities experiences.

All staff members and the Centre will access and make available resources and information to support the delivery of anti bias concepts

in the program, as well as attend regular training as required. Such resources should be integrated into the daily

program and made publicly available to families.

The Centre and staff members will regularly review and reflect on the implemented practices and staff member attitudes

to ensure they match the Centre’s philosophy, goals and aims.

All staff members and the Centre will regularly work with families to help educate and encourage positive attitudes and values

and seek their contribution in relation to policies and practices in the Centre.

That at all times staff members & Management will ensure that all casual staff are aware of such practices and reflect these values.

That such policy directives are applied to all persons, including staff, children, visitors and families.

NB:       Please see specific policies for gender, inclusion, additional needs and multicultural.

Sources

Children Services Regulations 2004

Handle with Care: A Guide to Early Childhood Administration

Equal Opportunity Act 1995

Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Act 1986

Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Regulations 1989

Racial and Religious Tolerance Act 2001

 Review

 The policy will be reviewed annually.

The review will be conducted by:

·        Management

·        Employees

·        Families

·        Interested Parties

 Reviewed: 7.01.2010                Date for next review: AGM 2010

page 34 Anti Gender Bias Policy

Indicator 1.5.1 to be read with Anti-Gender Bias Policy

Aim

Pursuant of the Centre’s aims, our Centre endeavours to respect the, and demonstrate awareness of

each person regardless of their gender.

 Legislative Requirements

Children’s Services Regulations 2004

Anti Discrimination Act 1977

Equal Opportunity Act 1995

Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Act 1999

Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Act 1986

Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Regulations 1989

National Childcare Accreditation Council

Who is affected by this policy?

Child

Staff

Families

Management

Implementation

In order to achieve this, staff members will:

The Centre and staff members will respect, and encourage respect of, all individuals and provide

equal opportunities for each child to develop their full potential, regardless of gender.

Staff members and the Centre will show respect for children who engage in practices which occur in other societies and cultures.

Staff members will work with families to engage in communication in relation to such practices and discuss the

 value of different experiences and values with parents/guardians.

The Centre and all staff members will access information, resources, support and ideas from outside agencies

to enhance the program and environment and help implement, demonstrate and encourage anti biases to gender.

Staff members will implement such resources to develop the capacity for each child to recognise and challenge bias.

Staff members will provide equal opportunities for all children to participate in all areas of the program, and demonstrate

anti biases towards gender through their interactions.

Staff members will regularly reflect on their own attitudes and practices as well as undertake regular training

as required to support such anti bias policies.

 Sources   

Children Services Regulations 2004

Equal Opportunity Act 1995

Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Act 1999

Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Act 1986

Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Regulations 1989

 Review

The policy will be reviewed annually.

The review will be conducted by:

·        Management

·        Employees

·        Families

·        Interested Parties

 Reviewed: 7.01.2010    Date for next review: AGM 2010

page 36 Allergies & Anaphylaxis -  Reducing The Risk

 Aim

The Centre will minimise the risk of exposure of children to foods and other substances, which might trigger severe

allergy or anaphylaxis in susceptible children.

 Food allergies in children are common and are usually due to peanuts,

other tree nuts (brazil, cashew, hazelnuts, almonds), fish, shellfish, eggs,

wheat, milk, milk products, soy, seed and some fruits.

Food allergies are more common in children under 2 years of age.

Peanut allergy is the most likely allergy to need availability of adrenaline.

Other substances to which children can have a severe allergic reaction are drugs

(especially antibiotics and vaccines), bees, other insect stings, and some plants.

The most severe form of allergic reaction to any substance is anaphylaxis and

effective immediate management requires adrenaline.

 Relevant Legislation

Children  Services Regulation 2004

Occupational Health and Safety Act, 2000 and Regulations 2001 (NSW).

 Who is affected by this policy?

Child

Staff

Families

Management

Visitors

 Implementation

 To minimise the risk of exposure of children to foods that might trigger severe allergy or anaphylaxis in susceptible children,

the Centre will Ensure children do not trade or share food, food utensils and food containers.

Be aware that allergy in children can be triggered in the following ways – contact through ingestion, inhalation of a

dust or vapour, skin contact, or a bite or sting.

Be aware that allergies are very specific to the individual and it is possible to have an allergy to any foreign substance.

Where possible, ensure all children with food allergies only eat food and snacks that have been prepared for them at home.

Ensure food preparation, food serving, and relief staff are informed of children and staff who have food allergies,

 the type of allergies they have, and the Centre’s procedures for dealing with emergencies involving allergies and anaphylaxis.

Restrict the use of foods likely to cause allergy in craft and cooking play.

In preparing food, prevent cross-contamination between foods, food surfaces and utensils, particularly when preparing

foods containing the most likely allergens such nuts, milk and milk products, eggs and egg products, and soy.

Where a child is known to have a susceptibility to severe allergy or anaphylaxis to a particular food, have a “food free policy”

for that particular food, e.g. a “Nut Free Policy”, which would exclude children or other people visiting the Centre from bringing

any foods containing nuts or nut products such as :

·         peanuts, brazil nuts, cashew nuts, hazelnuts, almonds, pecan nuts

·         any other type of tree or ground nuts, peanut oil or other nut based oil or cooking product, peanut or any nut sauce,

peanut butter, hazelnut spread, marzipan

·         any other food which contains nuts such as chocolates, sweets, lollies, nougat, ice creams, cakes, biscuits, bread,

drinks, satays, pre-prepared Asian or vegetarian foods

·         foods with spices and seeds such as mustard, poppy, wheat and sesame seeds

·         nut and peanut material is also often in cosmetics, massage oils, body lotions, shampoos and creams such as Arachnis oil.

 Be aware that a child may have a number of food allergies or there may be a number of children with different

food allergies, and it may not be possible to have an allergy free policy for all those foods involved.

Nut allergy is the most likely to cause severe reaction and should take precedence.

If displaying personal information about children’s or staff member’s allergies in food preparation or serving areas,

do so in accordance with privacy guidelines, such as displaying in an area accessible to staff and not accessible to visitors or other families.

Explain to families the need to do so for purpose of safety of the child and  obtain parental consent (see Section 8.4 Confidentiality).

Ensure children identified as allergic to specific triggers and substances do not have access to or contact with those substances.

 (See Sections 11.3 Contact between Children, Pets and Animals; 12.3 Precautions against Snakes, Spiders, Insects; 12.6 Hazardous Plants).

Ensure body lotions, shampoos and creams used on allergic children have been approved by their parent.

Other common groups of substances which can trigger allergic reaction or anaphylaxis in susceptible children include:

·         all types of animals, insects, spiders and reptiles

·         all drugs and medications, especially antibiotics and vaccines

·         many homeopathic, naturopathic and vitamin preparations

·         many species of plants, especially those with thorns and stings

·         latex and rubber products

·         Band-Aids, Elastoplast and products containing rubber based adhesives.

Source

Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology And Allergy,

http://www.allergy.org.au. ; Australian First Aid, St. John Ambulance Australia, www.stjohn.org.au;

Dealing with Food Allergy, Soutter, V, Swain, A, Loblay, R., RPA Hospital,

Review

The policy will be reviewed annually.

The review will be conducted by:

·        Management

·        Employees

·        Families

·        Interested Parties

Last reviewed: 7.01.2010     Date for next review: AGM 2010

 Aim

To ensure and encourage the safety of children, families, visitors and staff members during arrival and departure

experiences at the Centre and to educate such persons of appropriate procedures.

Legislative Requirements

The Centre and all staff members must ensure all operations are compliant to the following Acts/Regulations as required

 by the State of New South Wales. Failure to meet the below requirements is a criminal offence and may result in fines of up to $22,000.

 Who is affected by this policy?

Child

Families

Staff

Implementation

The following guidelines must be adhered to at all times to ensure the safety of the children

Arrival:

·        All children must be signed IN by their parent or responsible adult in order for parents to be eligible for Childcare Benefit.

This also assists staff in the event of evacuation of the Centre. This is the parent/caregivers responsibility.

·        To ensure each child is cared for at all times, a staff member will greet and receive the child at all times.

·        A locker should be made available to children and their families. A sign is posted above the lockers nominating a symbol for each child.

 Departure:

·        Authorised Supervisors are to ensure that the authorised pick-up list for each child is kept up to date.

·        No child will be released into the care of any persons not known to staff. If staff do not know the person by appearance,

the person must be able to produce some form of photo identification to prove that they are a person authorised to collect the child on the child’s enrolment form.

·        Parents must give prior notice where the person collecting the child is someone other than those mentioned on the enrolment form, e.g. in an emergency situation.

The person nominated by the parent must be able to produce some form of identification.

·        Children are not to be released into the care of persons not authorised to collect the child, e.g. court orders concerning custody and access.

·        Parents must give prior notice of any variation in the persons picking up the child. If notice is not given, and staff cannot contact the parent,

the child must not be released into the care of that person.

·        If the person collecting the child appears to be intoxicated, or under the influence of drugs, and staff feel that the person is unfit to take responsibility

 for the child, the staff members are to bring the matter to the person’s attention before releasing the child into their care.

Wherever possible, such discussion is to take place without the child being present. Staff are to suggest that they contact the other parent or

emergency numbers from the enrolment form, inform them of the situation and request they collect the child as soon as possible.

 If the person refuses to allow the child to be collected by another authorised person, staff members are to inform the police of the circumstances,

 the person’s name and vehicle registration number. Staff cannot prevent a parent from collecting a child, but do have a moral obligation to persuade

a parent to seek alternative arrangements if they feel the parent is in an unfit state to accept responsibility for the child.

·        All children must be signed OUT by a parent or responsible adult in order for parents to be eligible for Childcare Benefit.

This also assists staff in knowing who has left the Centre

·        At the end of each day 2 staff members check all beds and the premises including outdoors and indoors to ensure that

no child remains on the premises after the Centre closes.

 Sources

Children services Regulations 2004

Review

The policy will be reviewed annually.

The review will be conducted by:

·        Management

·        Employees

·        Families

·        Interested Parties

 Reviewed: 7.01.2010                Date for next review: AGM 2010

 Aim

The Centre aims to provide appropriate attention and care to children with asthma and ensure that such children are integrated into all activities.

We encourage play and exercise for children with asthma. All staff members will uphold and implement positive beliefs and values

 in relation to children with asthma to develop a sense of security and confidence. Staff members will assist children with asthma, other children,

visitors and families to understand asthma and medication in a positive manner.

Legislative Requirements

Children’s Services Regulations 2004

Occupational Health & Safety Act 2000 and Regulations 2001 (NSW)

National Childcare Accreditation Council

Who is affected by this policy?

Child

Families

Staff

Management

 Implementation

Management will:

• Identify children with asthma during the enrolment process
• Provide all affected families with a copy of the Asthma policy upon enrolment
• Provide staff members with a copy of the Asthma policy
• Opportunities for staff members to attend regular asthma training should be encouraged and made available by the Centre
• Provide an Asthma Record to all families of children with asthma on enrolment.
• Ensure all staff are informed of the children with Asthma in their care
• Ensure that an Asthma First Aid poster is displayed in a key location.
• Encourage open communication between families & staff
• Identify and where possible, minimise asthma triggers using appropriate techniques, policies and procedures.

 Staff will:

• Ensure that they maintain current Asthma First Aid Training

• Ensure that they are familiar with each child with asthma in the care
• In regular consultation families, optimise the health and safety of each child through supervised management of the child’s asthma
• Only administer prescribed and approved medication.
• No medication prescribed for anyone other than a particular child will be given
• All medication must be clearly marked with the child’s name and be stored appropriately.
• Ensure that all regular prescribed asthma medication is administered in accordance with the information on Child’s Asthma Record.
• Medication is to be administered (on a non-emergency basis) and is to be recorded accurately by the parent/guardian,
•  in relation to time and dosage, and will be signed by a staff member on its administration.
• Communicate without undue delay to management and families, if they are concerned about a child’s asthma limiting his/her ability to participate fully in all activities.
• Provides families with details of Asthma Foundation NSW
  • www.asthmansw.org.au
  • 1800 645 130

 Families will:

• Formally inform staff members and the Centre, either upon enrolment of their child with Asthma or on initial diagnosis
• (without undue delay), that their child has a history of asthma.
• Provide all relevant information regarding the child’s asthma via the Asthma Record as provided by the child’s doctor.
• Notify the Centre staff members, in writing, of any alterations to the Asthma Record.
• Ensure that their child maintains adequate supply of appropriate medication (reliever) and spacer device clearly labelled with the child’s name including expiry dates.
• Communicate all relevant information and concerns to staff as the need arises.
• Parent/guardian must give written authority for medication to be dispensed by filling in a Medication Form. If the medication Form is not filled in,
• except in the case of an emergency, medication will not be administered on that day.
• Do not leave medications in your child’s bag or locker. Give it directly to a staff member upon arrival.

 In the event of a child having an asthma attack whilst at the Centre:

1.                   The child will be positively reassured, calmed and removed to a quiet area under the direct supervision of a

suitably experienced and trained staff member.

2.                   Asthma medication will be administered as outlined in the child’s Asthma Record Form.

3.                   The parent/guardian will be contacted by phone immediately if staff members become concerned about the child’s condition.

4.                   In the event of a severe attack, the Ambulance service will be contacted on 000 immediately and the 4 Step Asthma First Aid Plan

will be implemented until Ambulance officers arrive.

Sources

 Asthma Foundation NSW www.asthmansw.org.au

 Review

The policy will be reviewed annually.

The review will be conducted by:

·        Management

·        Employees

·        Families

·        Interested Parties

 Reviewed: 7.01.2010    Date for next review: AGM 2010

  page 45 Asthma Record

 Asthma Friendly TM

Children’s Services

This form is to be completed by parents/carers AND the child’s doctor (general practitioner or specialist).

Parents/carers should inform the service immediately if there are any changes to the child’s asthma management.

A new Asthma Record should be provided at the beginning of each year.

Please tick the appropriate box, and print your answers clearly in the blank spaces where indicated.

Personal Details

Child’s name: _____________________________________________________________ Gender: M / F

(First name) (Family name)

Date of Birth: _ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _ Name of Children’s Service: __________________________________

Emergency Contact 1 Name: __________________________ Relationship: _______________________

(E.g. parent / carer)

Telephone (home): ______________________ Telephone (work): _______________________

Emergency Contact 2 Name: _________________________ Relationship: _______________________

Telephone (home): ______________________ Telephone (work): _______________________

Doctor’s name: _________________________________ Doctor’s telephone: _______________________

Asthma Management Plan

Does the child tell the carer when he / she needs medication? □ Yes □ No

Child’s symptoms (e.g. wheezing): ______________________________________________________________

Triggers: ______________________________________________________________________________

Medication requirements (Parents need to supply asthma medication e.g. puffer and spacer)

Name of medication Method of delivery (e.g. puffer and spacer) When and how much?

Child Asthma Record

In an EMERGENCY, follow the Plan below that has been ticked

□ Standard Asthma First Aid Plan

Step 1: Sit the child upright and remain calm and provide reassurance. Do not leave the child alone.

Step 2: Give 4 puffs of a blue reliever (Airomir, Asmol, Epaq or Ventolin), one puff at a time, through a

spacer device*. Ask the child to take 4 breaths from the spacer after each puff.

Step 3: Wait 4 minutes.

Step 4: If there is little or no improvement, repeat steps 2 and 3. If there is still little or no improvement, call an

Ambulance immediately (Dial 000). Continue to repeat steps 2 and 3 while waiting for the ambulance.

*Use a blue reliever puffer (Airomir, Asmol, Epaq or Ventolin) on its own if no spacer is available

OR

□ My Child’s Asthma First Aid Plan as written in consultation with my child’s doctor

(Full details must be attached or staff will use the above Standard Asthma First Aid Plan)

Additional Comments: ____________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 I authorise the staff at the service to follow the preferred Asthma First Aid Plan and assist my child with taking

asthma medication should he/she require help. I will notify you in writing if there are any changes to these instructions.

Please contact me if my child requires emergency treatment or if my child regularly has asthma symptoms whilst attending the service.

Signature of Parent/Carer: _________________________________________________

Date: _________________

Signature of Child’s Doctor: ________________________________________________

Date: _________________

page 47  Bullying Policy

Aim

Bullying can occur in numerous and various forms such as physical, verbal, gesture, extortion, exclusion and digital.

It is important that staff respond to bullying in a swift and effective manner to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all children at the Centre.

 It is important not to label a child who bullies as a “Bully”.

 Legislative Requirements

Occupational Health & Safety Act 2000 & Regulations 2001 NSW

Who is affected by this policy?

Child

Staff

Families

Management

Visitors

 Implementation

Characteristics of Children Who Bully

·         Children of all backgrounds can bully

·         Preconceived notions of children who bully should be avoided

·         The child who bullies may also be the victim of bullying

·         The child who bullies will often think that they are innocent, and that the child being bullied is somehow deserving of this negative experience.

·         Recent research demonstrates that aggressive and bullying inclinations begin in some children as early as two years old,

which highlights the importance of children’s services staff in effectively responding to children who bully.

 Characteristics of Victims of Bullying

·         Children of all backgrounds can fall victim to bullying

·         Preconceived notions of children who fall victim to bullying should be avoided

·         Boys are victims of bullying more than girls.

·         Victims may have low self-esteem, confidence, lack social skills or viewed as unpopular.

·         It is important to remember that victims are often sensitive and easily hurt, and feel incapable of preventing or stop such negative experiences.

 Strategies to Overcome Bullying

·         Practice all-encompassing and socially inclusive care. Daily programs should recognise value and reflect the social and cultural diversity of our community.

·         Role model and actively encourage appropriate behaviours

·         Form a close relationship with family members in order to work cooperatively to overcome instances of bullying.

·         Empower children by giving them responsibilities as they will feel valued.

·         Help children deal with their anger. This includes offering alternative dispute resolution techniques that are socially acceptable

·         Seeking the support of children’s services professionals may be necessary

 Sources

Children’s Services Regulations 2004

Managing a Child Care Service: A hands on guide for service providers

Slee, J. (2003). Managing difficult behaviour in young children. NSW: ECA.

WorkCover NSW

 Review

The policy will be reviewed annually.

The review will be conducted by:

·        Management

·        Employees

·        Families

·        Interested Parties

 Last reviewed: 7.01,2010                      Date for next review: AGM 2010

Indicator 6.6.1

Aim

To encourage all children, their families and staff members to maintain up to date immunisation and provide such records

in accordance with the Australian Standard Vaccination Schedule and to ensure such records are maintained in an orderly and up to date manner at all times.

Legislative Requirements

Children’s services Regulations 2004,

Public Health Act (Amendment) 1992,

Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 and regulations 2001(NSW)

National Childcare Accreditation Council

 Who is affected by this policy?

Child

Staff

Families

Management

Visitors

 Implementation

 To minimise risks, complications and the spread of vaccine preventable diseases, The centre will:

·        The Public Health (Amendment) Act 1992 requires parents/guardians of all children enrolling in child care facilities

and pre-schools to provide written/documented evidence of the child’s immunisation status and records. Immunisations received

should be appropriate to the child’s age. Immunisation is not compulsory; however, in the event of an outbreak of a vaccine-preventable

disease at the Centre, unimmunised children will be required to remain at home throughout the duration of the outbreak.

Documentation accepted is

o       A letter from the doctor, baby health clinic or nurse, local council or hospital or

o       The Personal Health Record (“Blue Book”) or

o       The Australian Childhood immunization Register History Statement

·        It is the families’ responsibility to ensure that their child’s immunisation is up to date.

·        An up to date and orderly immunisation register will be kept with a separate record for each child and staff member at the Centre.

o       Parent will be provided regularly with reminders to update their immunization register

o       Parents must provide updates to the child’s immunisation record. Failure to comply with this directive will mean the child

will be regarded as being unimmunised.

o       Staff will advise management with updates to immunisation.

·        The Centre will provide information on and encourage all children and staff to have up to date/age appropriate immunisation in accordance

with the current Australian Standard Vaccination Schedule.

·        When required, inform families that homeopathic immunisation has not been proven to give protection against infectious diseases.

Children who have only received homeopathic immunisation are considered not to be protected against vaccine preventable diseases

and they are not considered immunised for the purposes of the Public Health Act (1991).

·        Aboriginal and Torres Islander children have a different immunisation schedule which is available on request/or if needed.

·        The Public Health Unit is to be advised as soon as the Centre is aware that a child has contracted a vaccine-preventable disease.

The Medical Officer of Health may direct that unimmunised contacts be excluded from the Centre for the duration of the outbreak.

Any such directive must be complied with by all staff members, children, families and visitors.

·        If required by the Public Health unit, all families, staff members and persons normally working in and/or visiting the premises will be notified

in writing that an outbreak of a particular infectious disease has occurred

·        On instruction from the Public Health Unit, the child/staff that is to be excluded will be notified in writing and the Centre

must ensure that the child/staff is excluded for the specified period.

·        The Immunisation Register must be made available for inspection by the Medical Officer of Health of the local Public Health Unit.

·        Parents will be informed on enrolment that all unimmunised children will be excluded if a there is an outbreak of a vaccine

 preventable disease, if advised by the Public Health Unit.

·        Parents are responsible for payment of fees while their child is excluded under all circumstances.

 Birth

 Sources

Australian Standard Vaccination Schedule: www.health.gov/pubhlth/immunise/schedule_n2.htm

Children’s Services Regulations 2004

Staying Healthy in Childcare 4^th Edition

 Review

The policy will be reviewed annually.

The review will be conducted by:

·        Management

·        Employees

·        Families

·        Interested Parties

 Reviewed: 7.01.2010                Date for next review: AGM 2010

 Aim

The Centre aims to provide, promote and encourage the maintenance of a safe and healthy environment

to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all children. The policy must be upheld by all staff, children, families,

visitors or other persons attending the child care Centre at any time.

 Legislative Requirements

The Centre and all staff members must ensure all operations are compliant to the following Acts/Regulations as required

by the State of New South Wales. Failure to meet the below requirements is a criminal offence and may result in fines of up to $22,000.

Occupational Health & Safety Act 2000 and Regulations 2001

National Childcare Accreditation Council

Who is affected by this policy?

Child

Staff

Families

Management

Visitors

 Implementation

Our Centre is a Smoke, Alcohol and Illegal Substances Free Centre.

 In order to keep children and staff free from the dangers of tobacco smoke and other smoke. Including illegal substances, the following rules apply.

Smoking and the consumption of alcohol is prohibited in all areas of the Centre including:

·         Inside

·         Outside in the playground.

·         Outside in the car-park.

Smoking and the consumption of alcohol is also prohibited:

·         On excursions.

·         While travelling with a child.

·         At staff meetings.

·         At parent meetings.

·         At any social activity, whether in work hours or not, where the children and staff are involved.

The Centre will have No Smoking signs displayed.

 Sources

 Occupational Health & Safety Act 2000 & Regulations 2001

Children’s Services Regulations 2004

 Review

The policy will be reviewed annually.

Review will be conducted by:

·       Management

·       Employees

·       Families

·       Interested Parties

 Reviewed: 7.01.2010                Date for next review: AGM 2010

Aim

The Centre aims to provide, promote and encourage the maintenance of a safe and healthy environment

 to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all children. The policy must be upheld by all staff, children, families,

visitors or other persons attending the child care Centre at any time.

Implementation

Hygiene

Hand washing is considered to be the most effective way of controlling infection in the Centre.

Caregivers and children should wash their hands:

-          When arriving at the Centre to reduce the introduction of germs.

-          Before all clean tasks e.g. handling and preparing food and eating.

-          After all dirty tasks e.g. nappy changing, toileting, cleaning up faeces, vomit or blood, wiping a nose,

 playing outside, handling animals.

-          After removing gloves

-          Before and after giving a child medication

-          After giving first aid

-          Before going home to prevent taking germs home.

 Nappy Changing

·         Nappy changing will be done only in the nappy change area which will be properly stocked with paper towels,

 towelettes, plastic bags, fresh nappies, clean clothes, rubbish bin with sealed lid lined with plastic.

After each nappy change the child’s and caregivers hands will be washed and the change table cleaned. 

At the end of each day the nappy change area will be disinfected.

The procedure for nappy changing will be displayed in the nappy change area.

·         The Centre uses disposable nappies.

·         The laundering of soiled cloths, linen and nappies is laundered away from the premises;

soiled laundry is hygienically stored in a sealed container, until such a time as it is removed from the premises.

 Items returned to a child’s home for laundering will have soiling removed and will be stored securely

and not placed in the child’s bag in contact with personal items.

 ·         The Centre will ensure that toilets and hand washing facilities are easily accessible to children. 

Children will be encouraged to flush toilets and wash hands after use.

·         Staff will use separate cloths or tissues to wipe different children's faces and noses. 

Tissues will be disposed of immediately after wiping a child's nose.

·         Each child will have their own bedding which will be supplied by the family.

·         The Centre will wash mouthed toys daily using warms water and soap, and dry in the sun,

rotate toys to allow for washing and use individual toy bags for babies, clean books by wiping with moist cloth and drying,

 clean storage areas weekly.

·         Surfaces will be cleaned with detergent after each activity and all surfaces cleaned thoroughly daily. 

Floor in the babies and toddlers rooms will be washed each day.  Areas contaminated with body fluids will be disinfected 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 or that has been dropped on the floor.

·         Food will be prepared; kept and served hygienically.

·         Food preparation facilities will be maintained according to Children’s Services Regulation 2004 requirements.

·         The Centre will ensure it meets all requirements for food handling premises in accordance with the FSANZ Food Safety Code.

·         The rules of hygiene and dental care 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 and dental care principles and practices will be displayed in the reception area

 and drawn to the attention of all parents on a regular basis.

·         No alcohol or unlawful substances will be consumed on the premises of the Centre at any time when

 the service is being provided to the children

·         No smoking of any substance will be smoked on any part of the premises of the Centre at any time.  

Sources

Children’s Services Regulations 2004

Staying Healthy in Childcare 4^th Edition

 Review

The policy will be reviewed annually.

The review will be conducted by:

·        Management

·        Employees

·        Families

·        Interested Parties

 Reviewed: 7.01.2010    Date for next review: AGM 2010

 PARENT/GUARDIAN PERMISSION

To be completed by Parent/Guardian

In order for the staff at the Centre to assess the Centre’s ability to meet the medical needs of my child:

______________________________________________________________________
Child’s full Name

the Director/Co-ordinator seeks information about my child’s medical condition and medication or treatment.

My child’s proposed/confirmed attendance pattern at the Centre is:

Hours per day: ______________

I hereby request that you provide all information that is relevant to the proper treatment of my child to the Director/Co-ordinator of the Centre.

I understand that the information so disclosed may be discussed by the Director/Co-ordinator of the Centre and the

Centre Consultant with the other members of the Centre staff in order to assess the ability of the Centre to meet my child’s medical requirements.

MEDICAL INFORMATION TO BE COMPLETED BY MEDICAL PRACTITIONER/SPECIALIST

State the child’s medical condition(s) requiring regular treatment:

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

State the child’s medical condition(s) requiring intermittent or emergency treatment:

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

Detail the medication to be administered during the child’s attendance hours at the Centre.

Detail the medical procedure to be administered to the child:

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Indicate which, if any, of the medications can be self-administered by the child under supervision:

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

List any dietary restrictions or other medications which need to be restricted whilst the child is taking any of the above medications:

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If the child requires intermittent or emergency treatment, what signs or symptoms indicate that treatment is required and

which medication should then be given?

Intermittent _______________________________________________________

Emergency _______________________________________________________

Are there any activities or experiences that the child should not participate in whilst at the Centre?:

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Any other comments regarding the management of this child’s medical condition:

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Are you available to meet with the staff to provide instructions on the application of the above medication and procedures?

If yes, when is the best time to contact you to arrange a meeting with staff?

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 page 60Child Protection Policy