Risk Assessments – carrying out and reviewing risk assessments for all of the activities we do and places we visit ensures that thought and concern is given to how we do things every day, this way I ensure risks concerning equipment, venues and activities are minimised and therefore reducing the risk of injury or harm to the children and myself. Recognising potential hazards and eliminating them, this could include infectious diseases too.
Policies and Procedures – having clear rules and boundaries ensures that both adults and children (who are able to understand) know how to conduct themselves within the setting, by this I mean not behaving in ways that could cause distress or harm to others within the setting.
Conforming to Legislation – by adhering to laws such as health and safety and safeguarding, I am working within the law which is there to protect children and those who work with children.
Understanding signs of neglect/abuse – as a child care professional, I have a duty of care to all children that should I notice any signs/indicators of abuse or neglect that I report it the relevant third parties to protect the child. It is important that I understand and that I am able to recognise these signs/indicators.
Making observations and assessing children – by doing this I am able to check to see if individual children are progressing and developing at suitable rates, if not so then I would need to take relevant action in partnership with the parents and /or other agencies and professionals. Therefore a good understanding of a child’s development stages is essential
Training and development – ensuring that my qualifications and training with regards to first aid and safeguarding procedures are up to date and regularly retested or reviewed to ensure that I am refreshed and up to date with current procedures.
Teaching children to be aware and self aware – promotion of good self awareness, road safety, dangers, risks and hazards in general everyday life, is my responsibility whilst in my care and contributes greatly to how the children are safeguarded overall inside and outside of my care.
