Food During Classroom Shifts

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish clear guidelines for handling specific safety issues within our childcare program. Our goal is to maintain a safe and nurturing environment for all children under our care.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff members, including teachers and support staff, within our childcare program.

3. Safety Issues Requiring Director Intervention

The following incidents are identified as critical safety issues that require immediate attention and require a call to the administration:

• Unauthorized Exit from Classroom: Any instance of a child leaving the classroom by going through a closed door without a teacher's supervision.
• Leaving the Facility: Any instance of a child leaving the childcare facility premises without a teacher's supervision.
• Elopement Risk: A child running away from a teacher outside the facility, posing a security risk on the sidewalk or surrounding area.
• Attempted Playground Exit: Any attempt made to unlatch the gate by a child or to leave the playground through the gate or over the fence without a teacher's permission.
• Physical Aggression: A child attacking another student, resulting in scratches, red marks, or injuries caused by closed-fist punches, particularly if the injury requires medical attention.
• Misuse of Objects as Weapons: The use of toys, shoes, or other objects as weapons in a non-playful manner, specifically intended to cause harm.
• Intentional Destruction of Property: Any student who is intentionally destroying property, emptying entire centers, attempting to tip furniture, or unauthorized removal of things from the wall.
• Climbing on shelves or other unsafe movement of a child: Any student who actively is climbing shelves, furniture, or actively hiding under tables while also ignoring redirection.

4. Procedure for Handling Safety Incidents

Upon the occurrence of any of the above-listed safety incidents, the involved staff member must:

1. Ensure Immediate Safety: Take immediate action to ensure the safety of all children and staff involved in the incident.
2. Notify the Director: Promptly contact the childcare program director or designated administrator to report the incident verbally. This should be done by calling 888.
3. Documentation: Make a staff only note in Brightwheel, providing a detailed account of the event, actions taken, and any observed consequences.

5. Director’s Responsibilities

Upon being notified of a safety incident, the director or designated administrator will:

1. Assess the Situation: Review the incident report and any additional information provided by staff or witnesses.
2. Determine Further Action: Decide on the appropriate course of action, which may include parent/guardian notification, a meeting with the child, a temporary removal of the classroom, a temporary send-home, or suspension.
3. Follow-Up: Ensure that all necessary follow-up actions are taken to address the incident and prevent future occurrences.

6. Communication

All communications regarding safety incidents must be handled sensitively and confidentially, respecting the privacy and dignity of all individuals involved.