Family Day Care
Part B
Children’s
Health & Safety
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Active Play Policy
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 19.
Evidence of link to:
NQS: 2.1.3, 2.2.2
Evidence of link to:
ECSNR: 74
Policy Statement
To ensure children are provided with the opportunity to participate in active play on a daily basis. To
encourage children by offering a variety of physical activities, with an emphasis on having fun and
playing together.
To provide information to families on the importance of active play for children through newsletters,
visual displays and discussion.
Rationale
Children should be encouraged to be physically active from a young age with supervised floor based
play being provided and encouraged.
For toddlers and preschool age children it is recommended that active play needs to be provided
every day for at least 3 hours, spread throughout the day. It is acknowledged that this time will be
shared between families and other care environments that the child attends. A walk to kinder or the
park is a part of being active and this will be evidenced in programming.
To offer age-appropriate physical activities for each child.
To ensure all activities are offered in a safe environment.
Definitions
Active Play - Physical activity with regular bursts of a moderate to vigorous pace, such as crawling,
jumping, or running. Active play should raise children’s heart rate and make them
‘huff and puff’.
Active play can occur;
 Indoors or outdoors
 Alone or with friends and family
 In structured settings, such as sport
 In unstructured settings, such as backyards or parks
Strategies and Practices
The following should be considered when planning for children’s individual needs:
 Role model desired active play behaviours and enthusiastically participate in the children’s games
and activities. Role model appropriate footwear and clothing for physical activity
 Listen to children’s suggestions on what physical activities they would like to participate in and
where appropriate incorporate them into the program
 Program plan for and provide adult guided and free active play opportunities on a daily basis as
recommended in the NQS, The EYLF, VEYLDF; this includes activities such as running, jumping,
balancing, climbing, dancing, group games, drama and moving to music.
 Plan and provide daily active play activities both inside and outside
 Organise play spaces to ensure safety and wellbeing of all individuals in the environment.
 Take into account children’s ages, stages and various abilities when planning active play
opportunities.
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Family Day Care
Strategies and Practices
The following should be considered when planning for children’s individual needs:
 Ensure all active play opportunities are inclusive and that all children can participate at their own
pace and level. Actively encourage children to accept and respect each others range of physical
abilities.
 Ensure all active play is closely supervised.
 Ensure a balance of active and sedentary activities throughout the child’s day and minimise
sedentary behaviour unless the child is tired or ill
 Screen time is not used, or is limited
 In adverse weather conditions, outdoor playing time is substituted with equivalent indoor
activities.
 Support children to undertake and participate in new or unfamiliar physical activity
 Consultation with families, local health professionals, services and other organisations on
providing physical experiences that reflect diverse backgrounds and abilities, promote active play
and physical activity initiatives.
Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and as required
Resources and Further Readings






National Healthy Eating and Physical Activity Guidelines for Early Childhood Settings
Education and Care Services National Regulations
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
The Victorian Prevention and Health Promotion Achievement Program – Active play/physical
benchmarks 2012
Vic Roads Starts Out Safely Program
Related FDC Documents
 FDCV Fact Sheet “Outdoor Play Environments”
 FDCV Fact Sheet “Indoor Play Environments
Related FDC Policies/Procedures
 Television Electronic media policy
Create date:
Reviewed:
Next Review date:
May 2010
April 2012, April 17 2013 TM, August 2014
April 2015
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Anaphylaxis Management Policy
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 20.
Evidence of link to:
NQS: 2.1, 2.2
Evidence of link to:
ECSNR: 90; 168 (2) (d)
Policy Statement
The City of Greater Geelong Family Day Care Service believes that the safety and wellbeing of
children who are at risk of anaphylaxis is a whole-of-community responsibility.
The service is committed to:
 Providing, as far as practicable, a safe and healthy environment in which children at risk of
anaphylaxis can participate equally in all aspects of the children’s program and experiences
 Raising awareness about allergies and anaphylaxis amongst the service community and children in
attendance
 Actively involving the parents/guardians of each child at risk of anaphylaxis in assessing risks,
developing risk minimisation strategies and management strategies for their child
 Ensuring each FDC Educator, FDC Support Officer and other relevant adults have adequate
knowledge of allergies, anaphylaxis and emergency procedures
 Facilitating communication to ensure the safety and wellbeing of children at risk of anaphylaxis
Rationale
The aim of this policy is to:
 Minimise the risk of an anaphylactic reaction occurring while the child is in care
 Ensure FDC Educators respond appropriately to an anaphylactic reaction by Developing a risk
minimisation plan with the child’s parent and following the individual child’s Action Management
Plan provided by the doctor/specialist initiating appropriate treatment, including competently
administering an adrenaline auto-injection device
 Raise the service community’s awareness of anaphylaxis and its management through education
and policy implementation
The policy applies to all children enrolled at the service, their parents/guardians, staff and
approved provider as well as to other relevant members of the service community, such as
volunteers and visiting specialists. The Education and Care Regulations 2011 include the
requirements for inclusion in the policy, practices and procedures related to anaphylaxis
management and staff training.
Background & Legislation
Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. Up to two per cent of the general
population and up to five per cent (0-5years) of children are at risk. The most common causes in
young children are eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, cow milk, sesame, bee or other insect stings and some
medications.
Young children may not be able to express the symptoms of anaphylaxis. A reaction can develop
within minutes of exposure to the allergen, but with planning and training, a severe reaction can be
treated effectively by using an adrenaline auto-injection device.
The approved provider recognises the importance of all FDC Educators /FDC Support Officers
responsible for the child/ren at risk of anaphylaxis undertaking training that includes preventative
measures to minimise the risk of an anaphylactic reaction, recognition of the signs and symptoms of
anaphylaxis and emergency treatment, including administration of an adrenaline auto-injection
device.
FDC Educators /FDC Support Officers and parents/guardians need to be made aware that it is not
possible to achieve a completely allergen-free environment in any service. FDC Educators /FDC
Support Officers should not have a false sense of security that an allergen has been eliminated from
the environment. Instead the approved provider recognises the need to adopt a range of
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
procedures and risk minimisation strategies to reduce the risk of a child having an anaphylactic
reaction, including strategies to minimise the presence of the allergen in the service.
Legislation
Duty of Care requirements; Equal Opportunity - Anti-discrimination; Privacy Act 1988; Children’s
Services National Law Act 2010 and Education and Care Regulations 2011;
Poisons Act 1964; Poisons Regulations 1965.
Strategies and Practices
The Proprietor shall:
1. In all educator’s homes :
 Ensure there is an anaphylaxis management policy in place containing the matters prescribed in
Division 3 of the Education and Care Regulations 2011 (r.90)
 Ensure that the policy is provided to a parent or guardian of each child diagnosed at risk of
anaphylaxis at the service
 Ensure that all FDC Educators and FDC Support Officers whether or not they have a child
diagnosed at risk of anaphylaxis undertake training in the administration of the adrenaline autoinjection device and cardio-pulmonary resuscitation every 12 months (for FDC services r.136
recording this in the educators/staff records). It is recommended that practise with the trainer
auto-injection device is undertaken on an annual basis.
2. In FDC Educator’s home where a child diagnosed at risk of anaphylaxis is enrolled the
proprietor shall also:
 Conduct an assessment of the potential for accidental exposure to allergens while child/ren at
risk of anaphylaxis are in the care and develop a risk minimisation plan in consultation with the
family of the child/ren
 Ensure that a notice is displayed prominently near the main entrance of the FDC Educator’s
home stating that a child diagnosed at risk of anaphylaxis is being cared for
 Ensure all FDC Educators whenever a child diagnosed at risk of anaphylaxis is being cared for or
educated have completed approved training in the administration of anaphylaxis management
and that practice of the adrenaline auto-injection device is undertaken on an annual basis.
Awareness of the symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction, of the child at risk of anaphylaxis, the
child’s allergies, the individual anaphylaxis medical management action plan and how to store
the auto-injection device kit.
 Ensure that all FDC Support Officers have completed approved training in the administration of
anaphylaxis management including the administration of an adrenaline auto-injection device.
 Ask all parents/guardians as part of the enrolment procedure, prior to their child starting care,
whether the child has allergies and document this information on the child’s enrolment record.
If the child has severe allergies, ask the parents/guardians to provide a medical management
action plan signed by a Registered Medical Practitioner
 Ensure that no child who has been prescribed an adrenaline auto-injection device is permitted
to attend the carer’s home without the device
 Implement the communication strategy and encourage ongoing communication between
parents/guardians and educators regarding the current status of the child’s allergies, this
policy and its implementation
 Display Emergency contact details by the telephone
 Ensure that a child’s individual anaphylaxis medical management action plan is signed by a
Registered Medical Practitioner and inserted into the enrolment record for each child. This will
outline the allergies and describe the prescribed medication for that child and the
circumstances in which the medication should be used.
 Ensure that all FDC Support Officers are aware of the location of the anaphylaxis medical
management plan and that a copy is kept with the auto-injection device Kit
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
 Ensure that when the FDC Educators take the children outside the service they carry the
anaphylaxis medication and a copy of the anaphylaxis medical management action plan with
the auto-injection device kit
FDC Educators responsible for the child at risk of anaphylaxis shall:
 Conduct an assessment of the potential for accidental exposure to allergens while child/ren at risk
of anaphylaxis are in care and complete the risk minimisation plan for the child in consultation
with the parent/guardian
 Ensure that a notice is displayed prominently near the main entrance of the FDC Educator’s home
and a letter is sent to all families stating that a child diagnosed at risk of anaphylaxis is being cared
for /ask parents for permission to identify the child
 Follow the child’s anaphylaxis medical management action plan in the event of an allergic
reaction, which may progress to anaphylaxis
 Practice the administration procedures of the adrenaline auto-injection device using an autoinjection device trainer and “anaphylaxis scenarios” on a regular basis.
 Ensure that an anaphylaxis medical management action plan signed by the child’s Registered
Medical Practitioner and a complete auto-injection device kit (which must contain a copy the
child’s anaphylaxis medical management action plan) is provided by the parent/guardian for the
child while in care
 Ensure that the auto-injection device kit is stored in a location that is easily accessible to the FDC
Educator, including the FDC Support Officers and other adults, if required (not locked away);
inaccessible to children; and away from direct sources of heat and sunlight
 Ensure that the auto-injection device kit containing a copy of the anaphylaxis medical
management action plan for each child at risk of anaphylaxis is carried by the FDC Educator
accompanying the child, when the child is removed from the service or the home e.g. on
excursions that this child attends
 Regularly check the adrenaline auto-injection device expiry date. (The manufacturer will only
guarantee the effectiveness of the adrenaline auto-injection device to the end of the nominated
expiry month) and check liquid is not cloudy or yellow in colour
In the situation where a child who has not been diagnosed as allergic,
but who appears to be having an anaphylactic reaction:




Call an ambulance immediately by dialling 000
Commence first aid
Contact parent/guardian or emergency contact if parent cannot be contacted
Contact the FDC office
Parents/guardians of children shall:
 Inform the FDC service and the FDC Educator, either on enrolment or on diagnosis, of their child’s
allergies
 Develop an anaphylaxis risk minimisation plan with FDC Educator
 Provide the FDC service with an anaphylaxis medical management action plan signed by the
Registered Medical Practitioner giving written consent to use the auto-injection device in line with
this action plan
 Annually update the medical action management plan and provide to the FDC service
 Provide the FDC Educators with a complete auto-injection device kit
 Regularly check the adrenaline auto-injection device expiry date
 Assist the FDC Educator by offering information and answering any questions regarding their
child’s allergies
 Notify the FDC Educator or the FDC Support Officer of any changes to their child’s allergy status
and provide a new anaphylaxis action plan in accordance with these changes
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
 Communicate all relevant information and concerns to the FDC Educator, for example, any matter
relating to the health of the child
 Comply with the service’s policy that no child who has been prescribed an adrenaline autoinjection device is permitted to attend the service or its programs without that device
Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and as required
References
 Education and care Services National Regulations 2011
 Education and care Services National Law Act 2010
 Department of Education and Early Childhood Development website at
www.education.vic.gov.au/anaphylaxis provides information related to anaphylaxis, including
frequently asked questions - August 2010
 Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) - www.allergy.org.au
Resources and Further Readings





Education and Care Services National Regulations
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
Childcare service Handbook 2011-2012 (DEEWR)
VEYLDF, EYLF, MTOP
Related FDC Documents
 FDC Educator Handbook
 Anaphylaxis Action Plan
 Medical Conditions risk minimisation plan (enrolment form)
Related FDC Policies/Procedures




Dealing with Medical Conditions
Asthma Policy
Medication Policy
Dealing with Medical Condition Policy
Create date
Reviewed:
Next Review date
Sept 2010
May 2011, April 2012, July 2013, September 2014
July 2015
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Definitions
Allergen: A substance that can cause an allergic reaction.
Allergy: An immune system response to something that the body has identified as an allergen. People
genetically programmed to make an allergic response will make antibodies to particular allergens.
Allergic reaction: A reaction to an allergen. Common signs and symptoms include one or more of the
following: hives, tingling feeling around the mouth, abdominal pain, vomiting and/or diarrhoea, facial swelling,
cough or wheeze, difficulty swallowing or breathing, loss of consciousness or collapse
(child pale or floppy), or cessation of breathing.
Anaphylaxis: A severe, rapid and potentially fatal allergic reaction that involves the major body systems,
particularly breathing or circulation systems.
Anaphylaxis Medical Management Action Plan: a medical management plan prepared and signed by a
Registered Medical Practitioner providing the child’s name and allergies, a photograph of the child and clear
instructions on treating an anaphylactic episode. An example of this is the Australian Society of Clinical
Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) Action Plan.
Anaphylaxis Management Training: accredited anaphylaxis management training that has been recognised by
the Secretary of the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development and includes strategies for
anaphylaxis management, recognition of allergic reactions, risk minimisation strategies, emergency treatment
and practise using a trainer adrenaline auto-injection device.
Adrenaline Auto-injection device: A device containing a single dose of adrenaline, delivered via a springactivated needle, which is concealed until administered.
EpiPen®: This is one form of an auto-injection device containing a single dose of adrenaline, delivered via a
spring-activated needle, which is concealed until administered. Two strengths are available, an EpiPen ® and an
EpiPen Jr®, and are prescribed according to the child’s weight. The EpiPen Jr® is recommended for a child
weighing 10-20kg. An EpiPen® is recommended for use when a child is in excess of 20kg.
Anapen®. Is another adrenaline auto injection device containing a single dose of adrenaline, recently
introduced to the Australian market. The mechanism for delivery of the adrenaline in Anapen ® is different to
EpiPen®.
Adrenaline Aauto-injection device training: training in the administration of adrenaline via an auto-injection
device provided by allergy nurse educators or other qualified professionals such as doctors, first aid trainers,
through accredited training or through the use of the self paced trainer CD ROM and trainer auto-injection
device.
Children at risk of anaphylaxis: those children whose allergies have been medically diagnosed and who are at
risk of anaphylaxis.
Auto-injection device kit: An insulated container, for example an insulated lunch pack containing a current
adrenaline auto-injection device, a copy of the child’s anaphylaxis medical management action plan, and
telephone contact details for the child’s parents/guardians, the doctor/medical service and the person to be
notified in the event of a reaction if the parent/guardian cannot be contacted. If prescribed an antihistamine
may be included in the kit. Auto-injection devices are stored away from direct heat.
Intolerance: Often confused with allergy, intolerance is a reproducible reaction to a substance that is not due
to the immune system.
No food sharing: The practice where the child at risk of anaphylaxis eats only that food that is supplied or
permitted by the parent/guardian, and does not share food with, or accept other food from any other person.
Communication plan: A plan that forms part of the policy outlining how the service will communicate with
parents and staff in relation to the policy and how parents and staff will be informed about risk minimisation
plans and emergency procedures when a child diagnosed at risk of anaphylaxis is enrolled in the service.
Risk Minimisation: The implementation of a range of strategies to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction
including removing, as far as is practicable, the major sources of the allergen from the service, educating
parents and children about food allergies and washing hands after meals.
Risk Minimisation plan: A plan specific to the service that specifies each child’s allergies, the ways that each
child at risk of anaphylaxis could be accidentally exposed to the allergen while in the care of the service,
practical strategies to minimise those risks, and who is responsible for implementing the strategies. The risk
minimisation plan should be developed by families of children at risk of anaphylaxis and staff at the service and
should be reviewed at least annually, but always upon the enrolment or diagnosis of each child who is at risk of
anaphylaxis.
Treat box: A container provided by the parent/guardian that contains treats, for example, foods which are safe
for the child at risk of anaphylaxis and used at parties when other children are having their treats. Non-food
rewards, for example stickers, stamps and so on are to be encouraged for all children as one strategy to help
reduce the risk of an allergic reaction.
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Asthma Policy
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 21.
Evidence of link to:
NQS: 2.1, 2.2 7.3
Evidence of link to:
ECSNR: 90; 168 (2) (d)
The City of Greater Geelong Family Day Care Service is an accredited Asthma Friendly Children’s
Service.
Policy Statement
This policy should be read in conjunction with the Medication Policy.
The City of Greater Geelong Family Day Care Scheme is committed to
 Providing the necessary procedures to ensure the health and safety of all persons with Asthma
involved within the scheme
 Providing an environment in which children, Educators and staff diagnosed with Asthma can
participate in all activities to their full potential
 Providing a clear set of guidelines and expectations to be followed with regard to the
management of Asthma
Rationale
The aim of this policy is to document strategies for implementation of best practice Asthma
management within Family Day Care so that:
 All enrolled children, Educators and staff who have Asthma can receive appropriate attention as
required
 The scheme can respond to the needs of children who have not been diagnosed with Asthma and
who have an Asthma attack or difficulty breathing while in care
Strategies and Practices
Families will:
 Inform Educators and staff, either upon enrolment or on initial diagnosis, that their child has
Asthma.
 Provide all relevant information regarding the child’s Asthma via the Asthma Medical
Management Plan and Asthma Risk Minimisation Plan. Both the Asthma Action Plans and Asthma
Risk Minimisation Plans should be updated annually.
 Notify the scheme, in writing, of any changes to the Asthma action plan, if this occurs, during the
year and also a Doctor’s letter if an Asthma Plan is no longer required.
 Provide an adequate supply of appropriate medication (reliever) and spacer device (and mask if
needed) clearly labelled with the child’s name including expiry dates.
 Supply the Educator with a replacement spacer immediately if the Educator has to use the spacer
from their First Aid Kit for their child.
 Consult with the staff, in relation to the health and safety of their child and the supervised
management of the child’s Asthma.
 Communicate all relevant information and concerns with staff as the need arises e.g. if Asthma
symptoms were present during the night.
 Provide a colour photo of their child for the Asthma Action Plan
Educators will:
 Ensure that they maintain current Asthma Management training.
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
 Identifying children with Asthma during the enrolment process and document this information
appropriately.
 Promptly communicate any concerns to parents if they are concerned about the child’s Asthma
limiting his/her ability to participate fully in all activities.
 Display current Asthma action plans with a coloured photo of the child
 Keep emergency Asthma management procedures on display in a prominent place at all times, or
easily accessible eg kept in the First Aid Kit.
 Be aware of the need to recognise and treat symptoms early. Regardless of whether these are
mild, moderate or severe, treatment must be commenced immediately as delay may increase risk
to child’s health and safety.
 Encourage children of appropriate age and ability to self manage their Asthma, including using
their reliever medication as soon as symptoms develop.
 Regularly maintaining all Asthma components of the First Aid Kit to ensure medication is current
and the spacer device and mask are ready to use. Provide a mobile Asthma Emergency Kit for use
during activities outside the home.
If the spacer is in the First Aid Kit is used, Educators are to either give the spacer to the person
who used it, as a personal spacer, or dispose of it. When disposing of a spacer, check the
manufacturers’ instructions to determine whether it should be placed in the recycling or garbage.
A spacer should always be available for First Aid use and must be replaced immediately once it
has been used.
 Ensure that all regularly prescribed Asthma medication is administered in accordance with the
child’s Asthma action plan.
 In the absence of a child’s management plan, follow the 4 step emergency Asthma management
procedures. Contact parents/ emergency contact person.
 Identify, and where possible, minimise Asthma triggers as defined in children’s Asthma action plans
and Risk Minimisation Plans.
 In the event that an ambulance has been called, FDC Educators should continue to administer blue
reliever medication and contact the parent or emergency contact person. The child should be
handed over to the ambulance officers for treatment and the FDC Educator should remain with the
other children in care.
 When administering Asthma first aid, FDC Educators should continue to provide adequate
supervision of other children in care at all times.
 A record of any Asthma attack should be recorded on the FDC notice of illness report. A record of
any medication administered should be placed on the parent authorisation to administer
medication form
 Educators to manage their own Asthma effectively
The Coordination Unit will:
 Ensure that Educators and Support Officers maintain current Asthma Management training.
 Ensure Educators and staff manage their own Asthma effectively
 Identify children with Asthma during the enrolment process and document this information
appropriately.
 Compile a list of children with Asthma and place it in a secure but readily accessible location,
which is known to all staff.
 Promptly communicate to Educators if there are any concerns about any children in their care
with Asthma, limiting his/her ability to participate fully in all activities.
 Consult with the parents/carers of children with Asthma, in relation to the health and safety of
their child and the supervised management of the child’s Asthma.
 Ensure that parents/carers of a child with Asthma have been provided with a copy of this policy.
 Providing families with the contact details of the Asthma Foundation if further Asthma advice is
needed.
 Ensure Asthma action plans are updated annually
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Family Day Care
First know as Asthma Attack
If a child suddenly develops or complains of difficulty in breathing and/or has an incessant cough or
wheeze, appropriate care must be given immediately whether of not the child is known to have
Asthma.
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

Call an ambulance immediately (dial 000) and state that the child is having breathing difficulty.
Administer 4 separate puffs of a blue reliever puffer via a spacer. Use one puff at a time and ask
the child to take 4 breaths from the spacer after each puff.
Keep giving 4 separate puffs of a blue reliever puffer via a spacer every 4 minutes until the
ambulance arrives.
In an emergency
The blue reliever puffer can be accessed from the Educator’s First Aid Kit.
This treatment could be life saving for a child whose Asthma has not been previously recognised and
it will not be harmful if the collapse or breathing difficulty was not due to Asthma. Reliever puffers
are extremely safe, even if the child does not have Asthma.
A record of any Asthma attack should be recorded on the FDC notice of illness report. A record of
any medication administered should be placed on the parent authorisation to administer medication
form.
Cleaning of Asthma Spacer and Puffer
Best practice for infection control is that all spacers are to be used by one person only, and are not
to be reused by another person, even if it has been washed.
Devices (for example puffers, spacers and face masks) must be thoroughly cleaned after each use.
Devices can be easily cleaned by following these steps:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Ensure the canister is removed from the puffer container (the canister must not be submerged)
and the spacer is separated and dismantled.
Wash devices thoroughly in hot water and kitchen detergent.
Do not rinse.
Allow devices to ‘air dry’. Do not rub dry.
When dry, wipe the mouthpiece thoroughly with a 70% alcohol swab (e.g. Medi-Swab™)
available from pharmacies).
When completely dry, ensure the canister is replaced into the puffer container and check the device
is working correctly by firing a ‘puff’ into the air. A mist should be visible upon firing.
If any device is contaminated by blood, throw it away and replace the device.
Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and as required
References
 Asthma Foundation of Victoria - www.Asthma.org.au.
 Education and care Services National Regulations
 Education and care Services National Law Act 2010
Resources and Further Readings





Education and Care Services National Regulations
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
Childcare service Handbook 2011-2012 (DEEWR)
VEYLDF, EYLF, MTOP
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
 Asthma Foundation of Victoria -(03) 9326 7088 or 1800 645 130
Related FDC Documents




Asthma first aid plan
Asthma action plan
Parent Authorisation to administer medication
Notice of illness report
Related FDC Policies/Procedures






Dealing with Medical Conditions
Anaphylaxis Policy
Medication Policy
Adequate Supervision Policy
Dealing with Medical Conditions Policy
First Aid Policy
Create date :
Reviewed:
Next Review date:
2003
2005, Application for re-accreditation 2006& 2008 Feb 2007, 2009, 2011, April 2012, Nov 2013,
Nov 14
November 2015,
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Bathing & Hot Water Policy
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 22.
Evidence of link to:
NQS: 2.1.3, 2.3.2, 7.3.5,
Policy Statement
To ensure the safety of children by protecting them from the possibility of drowning and being
scalded by hot water.
Rationale
The City of Greater Geelong Family Day Care aims to provide a safe environment for children.
Strategies and Practices
Drowning
Drowning is the number one cause of death of children under five years of age in Australia.
Statistics indicate that bathrooms area high area of risk for children
The most common scenarios leading to bath drowning includes children left unattended in the bath
or left in the care of an older child.
Burns and Scalds
Burns and scalds pose a significant risk to Australian children each year. The majority of burns and
scalds to children aged 0-4 years occur in the home environment.
It takes less than a second for a child to be severely scalded with hot water at 65°C – this is the hotwater temperature in most Australian homes. The maximum safe temperature for a hot-water
system is 50°C. At this temperature, it takes five minutes to severely scald a child.
To prevent drowning and burns and scalds Educators will:
 Ensure their home has bathing facilities that are safe and appropriate to the ages of the children
at the service and must have products and equipment for cleaning the facilities whenever
necessary stored safely and plugs made inaccessible to children
 Ensure bathing amenities used by the Family Day Care children are maintained in a clean, hygienic
and safe condition at all times
 Consult with individual families on children’s bathing requirements
 Ensure children are always supervised closely when in the bath. Never leave young children in the
bath in the care of an older child or anyone else other than the Educator. Frequently check on a
school age child bathing by talking to them etc
 Take the child with you if you have to leave the bathroom, for example, to answer the door or the
telephone
 The bathroom should be accessible and maintained as per the Home Safety Check
 Respect the dignity and need for privacy of each child during bathing
 Legislation requires that all new hot water systems deliver hot water to a bathroom at no more
than 50°C. Older hot water systems must have bathroom hot tap water controlled to a maximum
of 50°C.or child resistant taps/tap covers.
 Always test the water’s temperature before bathing a child.
 The maximum recommended temperature for bathing a baby is 380C.
 Child resistant taps/tap covers can help, but will not stop a child falling into a bath that is already
run.
 Always run the cold water first (and turn it off last) and mix for an even temperature.
 Not put the child in the bath while the water is running.
 Follow manual handling guidelines (back care) when bathing children
 Conduct bath/shower time outside of busy times, where possible
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
To prevent drowning and burns and scalds Educators will: (cont)
 Seek immediate medical attention for any burn bigger than a 20-cent piece. Call an ambulance for
any burns to the face, airway, hands, neck or genital area, or burns that are larger than a child’s
hand. Follow First Aid Procedures. This is a serious incident and must be reported as such.
 Turn taps off tightly, use child resistant tap covers and keep the bathroom doors closed/snibbed
when not in use. Refer to home safety checklist for other preventative measures.
 Not use baby bath seats as they are not a safety device and are not to be used for FDC children.
 Keep hot drinks out of reach of children
 Avoid nursing children when having a hot drink
Families will:
 Work in partnership with Educators and the Coordination Unit staff to ensure the bathing needs
of their child are addressed with consistent, safe and respectful practices
To reduce the incidents of falls use the above measures and;
 Mop up spills as they occur
 When renovating, consider non-slip tiles, bath and shower bases
Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and as required
References







www.kidsafevic.com.au/images/stories/pdfs/burns_scalds.pdf
Kidsafe Victoria Water Safety Fact Sheet 2012
RCH Safety Centre Water Safety Fact Sheet 2008
Kidsafe Burns and Scalds Fact Sheet 2009
Raising Children Network
Royal Lifesaving Society of Australia – www.keepwatch.com.au
ACCC – Keeping Baby safe – a guide to nursery products
Resources and Further Readings





Education and Care Services National Regulations 2011
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
Childcare service Handbook 2011-2012 (DEPEARTMENT OF EDUCATION)
VEYLDF, EYLF, MTOP
Related FDC Documents
 Home Safety Checklist
 Incident Report
Related FDC Policies/Procedures





Adequate Supervision Policy
Water safety Policy
Child Protection Policy
FDC Educator – Parent Agreement
First Aid Policy
Create date:
Reviewed:
Next Review date:
June 2005
June 2006, Jan 2008, June 2010, June 2012 Oct 2014
October2015
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Dealing with Medical Conditions Policy
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 23.
Evidence of link to:
NQS: 2.1.1, 2.2.1, 2.3.2, 7.3.5.
Evidence of link to:
ECSNR: 168(2) (d), 90, 91.
Policy Statement
Family Day Care recognises the need to ensure that children with specific diagnosed medical
conditions have their medical requirements met whist in childcare. This is an important part of
childcare delivery to ensure the whole needs of the child are catered for
Every child enrolled at the Education and Care service with a medical condition is provided with the
best possible care to ensure their health and well being.
Rationale
To ensure educators facilitate the safe, effective care and health management of children who have a
medical condition.
These conditions Include (but not limited to)





Asthma
Diabetes
Anaphylaxis
Epilepsy
Allergies
Strategies and Practices
Medical Management Plans: for the above medical conditions are to be completed by the
parent/guardian and the child’s medical practitioner and will include the authority to administer
specific medication and medication procedure. Medical management plans are to be followed in the
event of an incident relating to the child's specific health care need, allergy or relevant medical
condition.
Risk Minimisation Plans for the above medical conditions are to be developed in consultation with
the parent/guardian of the child (Service template is included in child enrolment pack)
Risk minimisation plans are developed to identify and minimise the risks related to the child’s specific
health care needs, allergy or relevant medical condition.
Communication Plan outlines how the service will communicate with parents, educators,
coordination staff and volunteers the specific healthcare needs of children attending the service. The
communication plan outlines how parents can communicate any changes to the medical
management plan and risk minimisation plan for every child.
 Information about children’s medical condition is obtained at the initial parent’s enquiry and
parents are informed of the enrolment process and the additional information required for
children with specific healthcare needs.
 At enrolment, medical management plan is obtained and risk minimisation plan is completed with
the parents.
 The Service and individual FDC Educators keep recent copies of each child's medical management
plan and risk minimisation plan with children’s enrolment records.
 Any visitors to the educator’s homes including educator’s family members are made aware of the
children, with specific medical conditions, verbally and by medical management plans and risk
minimisation plans clearly displayed near the phone along with emergency plans in a plastic
pocket that is clearly labelled “MEDICAL MANAGEMENT PLANS & RISK MINIMISATION PLANS”
suffice.
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Communication Plan (cont)
 The location of children’s personal medication (including Epipen or Anapen etc.) and medical
management plan is to be easily recognisable and accessible to adults.
 Family Day Care Coordinators visiting the educator’s homes carry “Support visits” folder
containing specific information regarding individual children’s medical conditions.
 All visiting FDC Coordinators and other adults, are able to identify all children diagnosed with
specific medical conditions and are aware of the location of their medication and
Management/Minimisation Plans.
 Parents are required to inform the educators of any changes to their child’s medical needs and
educators verbally discuss with parents any changes in children’s medical conditions and if
required updated plans are obtained.
 Medical management plans and Risk minimisation plans are reviewed as required or annually
with parents
Medical management plans and risk minimisation plans are to be reviewed annually in accordance
with the Medication Policy.
Children’s Personal medication and Medical management plans must be with the child whenever
they are taken out of the FDC Educator’s home, or on an excursion.
Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and as required.
References






Advice re administration of emergency injection devices
Anaphylaxis Australia. Schools and childcare. Accessed from www.allergyfacts.org.au/
http://www.Asthmafoundation.org.au
DEECD Anaphylaxis Resource Kit – Epipen & Anapen
Education and care Services National Regulations 2011
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
 Resources and Further Readings





Education and Care Services National Regulations
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
Childcare service Handbook 2011-2012 (DEEWR)
VEYLDF, EYLF, MTOP
Related FDC Documents
 Illness Exclusion Table (Department of health)
Related FDC Policies/Procedures




Infectious Disease policy
Anaphylaxis Policy
Asthma Policy
Medication Policy
Create date:
Reviewed:
Next Review date:
April 2012
July 2013 & 9 October 2013 (TG), November 2014,
January 2015
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
First Aid Policy
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 24.
Evidence of link to:
QS: 2.1.3, 2.2.1, 2.3 4.1.1, 7.3.5
Evidence of link to:
ECSNR: 89, 136, 168(2) (a)
Policy Statement
Family Day Care has a duty of care to provide all persons with a safe and healthy environment.
Family Day Care defines ‘First Aid’ as ‘the essential skills and knowledge required to manage life
threatening emergencies until professional medical help arrives. This includes OH&S, resuscitation,
managing shock, bleeding, burns, fractures, soft tissue injuries, environmental exposure, cardiac
emergencies, respiratory emergencies, diabetes, allergies, epilepsy and poisoning. It is understood
that there is a shared legal responsibility and accountability between, and a commitment by, all
persons to implement the service’s First Aid Policy, procedures and practices.
Rationale
To ensure all staff and Educators know their responsibilities and follow correct procedures in the
administration of first aid in an emergency. Please refer to: Education and Care Services National
Regulations 2011. R.136 (3) ‘All Educators engaged in the service to have First Aid, Anaphylaxis and
emergency Asthma training.’
First Aid qualifications
 It is the responsibility of Educators and FDC staff to ensure all First Aid, Anaphylaxis, Emergency
Asthma management, CPR training is completed before due date.
 At all times, the supervising educator will have current level 2 first aid, anaphylaxis and
emergency Asthma qualifications.
 First aid qualifications are acquired through an accredited training provider and regularly updated
(as determined by the authority).
 Educator training is updated on Harmony when certificates are supplied to the unit.
 A copy of training certificates are kept on Dataworks
 Copies of first aid qualifications are stored on staff profiles.
 Family Day Care informs families that educators caring for their children hold accredited first aid
at all times.
Emergency Procedure Policy
 For the First Aid procedure, refer to the First Aid Administration Policy
Poisons Information Centre
The Poisons Information Centre Telephone number 131126 is displayed on the FDC emergency
contact list which must be displayed near the telephone in an Educators home or in-venue premises
Protective behaviours and practices
Educators, Support Officers and students act as role models
 Children learn through example and modelling is an important way to teach children about safe
behaviours and practices.
 Educators, Support Officers and students must comply with the First Aid Policy.
Educators & Support Officers professional development opportunities
 FDC Educators are required to pay for their own training to maintain first aid, Asthma, CPR and
anaphylaxis training.
 CoGG provides Support Officers with paid training to maintain first aid, Asthma, CPR and
anaphylaxis training.
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
First Aid Kits
 FDC Educators are required to keep and maintain a readily accessible First Aid Kit stocked with
items specified in the Home Safety Checklist. The First Aid Kit is to be clearly marked “Family Day
Care First Aid Kit”.
 Support Officers will check First Aid Kits annually when completing Educator home safety checks.
It is the Educators responsibility to ensure the First Aid Kit is maintained at all times.
 A portable First Aid Kit is to be taken on all outings away from the home. Items to be included in a
kit for the purposes of excursions are marked with an asterisk (*) in the home safety check first
aid list.
 For no additional expense, items marked as * can be placed in a bag within the indoor First Aid Kit
to enable the bag to be simply removed from the kit for excursions. Alternatively FDC Educators
may choose to make up a separate excursion kit.
 The First Aid Kit must be easily recognisable and accessible.
 Council provides First Aid Kits in Council vehicles. First Aid Kits are checked and restocked when
vehicles are serviced.
 First Aid Kits are available on the ground and first floors levels at Ariston House and in the training
room. The First Aid Kits are checked and restocked on quarterly Ariston House safety audits.
 Ariston House First Aiders listed on the emergency evacuation procedure.
Communication with:
Children: Educators hold a discussion with children after a first aid event occurs.
Families: Information regarding any first aid response is communicated to families confidentially and
with sensitivity.
Educators: A debriefing session is available to educators after any first aid response. Support Officers
monitor compliance of first aid requirements of all educators.
Management: The co-ordination unit is made aware of all first aid responses and act accordingly to
Departmental requirements.
Other
Offering posters, pamphlets and information via newsletters, fact sheets etc.
Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and as required.
References
 Poisons Information Centre Listing. (n.d.). Retrieved June 28, 2007, from
http://ausdi.hcn.net.au/poisons.html
 Tansey, S. (2006). Quality Improvement and Accreditation System
Factsheet #2: Safety in children’s services. NSW: National Childcare Accreditation Council Inc.
 McLeod, P. (2005). Health and safety information on the internet. Putting Children First, 15, 12-13.
 Education and care Services National Regulations 2011
 COGG Workplace First Aid Management Procedure
 Worksafe Compliance Code: First Aid in the workplace
 COGG vehicle policy
 Ariston House emergency evacuation procedure
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Resources and Further Readings





Education and Care Services National Regulations
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
Childcare service Handbook 2011-2012 (DEEWR)
VEYLDF, EYLF, MTOP
Related FDC Documents




First Aid Kit - Manual
Home Safety Checklist
Playgroup Safety Audit
Ariston House safety audit
Related FDC Policies/Procedures
 Dealing with medical conditions
 Emergency and evacuation
 Incident, injury, Trauma and Illness
Create date:
April 2012
Reviewed:
December 2014
Next Review date: December 2015
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Food Safety Policy
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 25.
Evidence of link to:
NQS: 2.1.3, 2.1.4, 2.2.1, 2.3, 3.1.1, 3.2.2, 7.3.5.
Evidence of link to:
ECSNR: 77, 78, 79, 80, 90.
Policy Statement
To ensure all children who attend the City of Greater Geelong Family Day Care are offered nutritious
and appropriate meals that has been stored and prepared in a safe and hygienic manner.
Rationale
Bacteria as well as some viruses and parasites, can all cause food poisoning.
To prevent food poisoning Educators need to:
 Handle food safely
 Store food safely
 Maintain good personal hygiene
 Maintain good cleaning practices
Strategies and Practices
It is important that children in Family Day Care are offered foods and drinks that are safe and
hygienic.
To ensure this occurs, the following practices are recommended:
 Supervise children who are eating at all times.
 Gloves are recommended, but ensure good hand washing procedures by the Educator and the
children before handling and preparing food.
 Storage of food at a safe temperature. Food should be refrigerated at a temperature of less than
5 degrees.
 Do not store perishable foods at room temperature. When on an excursion with the children
perishable foods need to be transported safely eg cooler bag, esky or a car fridge.
 Use separate wash cloths for floors, dishes, benches, play areas etc
 Keep all kitchen surfaces and utensils clean and ensure regular cleaning routines for all food
preparations.
 Ensure children are eating food that is age appropriate (risk of choking)
 Encourage children to remain calm and seated whilst eating and drinking.
 To provide parents with appropriate information on the safe transportation of food provided to
the Family Day Care home.
 To ensure food arriving in the FDC Educators home is stored appropriately.
 To ensure that food purchased is stored appropriately as soon as is practicable following
purchase.
 To ensure FDC Educators maintain adequate hygiene practices at all times.
 To ensure FDC Educators have knowledge of appropriate and safe food handling practices.
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and as required
References
 Code of Conduct for Food Safety for Children. Food Safety Victoria 1999 Revised 2010
 Food Standards Australia, for information on food safety and food handling,
www.foodstandards.gov.au.
Resources and Further Readings





Education and Care Services National Regulations
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
Childcare service Handbook 2011-2012 (DEEWR)
VEYLDF, EYLF, MTOP
Related FDC Documents
 FDC Educator Handbook

Related FDC Policies/Procedures
 Preparation, storage and heating of infant formula and breast milk procedure
 Nutrition Policy
 Hand washing
Create date:
Reviewed:
Next Review date:
April 2000
Dec 2004, June 2006, Dec 2007, May 2010, April 2012, July 2013
July 2015
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Hand Washing Procedure
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 26.
Evidence of link to:
NQS: 2.1.3, 2.1.4, 3.1.1, 4.2, 4.3.
Evidence of link to:
ECSNR: 77, 109.
Policy Statement
Good hygiene in Family Day Care is essential for reducing the risk of cross infection between children
and adults. Regular hand washing by FDC Educators and children significantly reduces the risk of
transmission of infectious diseases
Rationale
To effectively use hand washing to prevent cross contamination and reduce the spread of illness and
disease
Strategies and Practices
When to wash your hands:














Before children arrive
Before eating or handling food, including a baby’s bottle
Before preparing or cooking food
After changing a nappy
After cleaning a nappy change area
After removing gloves
After going to the toilet or assisting a child to go to the toilet
After handling rubbish
After cleaning up or contact with blood, urine, faeces, vomit, or other body fluids
After wiping nose either a child’s or your own or touching nose secretions
Before and after giving medication
After playing outdoors or in a sandpit or wading pool
Before and after administering first aid
After handling pets
When to wash Children’s Hands:
 On arrival, to reduce the introduction of germs
 Before and after eating and handling food
 After having their nappy changed. Children’s hands become contaminated while they are on
the change mat
 After going to the toilet
 After coming in from playing outdoors
 After touching nose secretions
 After coming contact with blood, faeces or vomit
 Before going home
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
How to wash hands:
Use the following method to make sure your hands and the children’s hands are as germ free as
possible. The process of thoroughly washing and rinsing hands should take 10-15 seconds. This can
be achieved by slowly counting to 10 when washing hands and then slowly counting to 10 when
rinsing. Liquid soap dispensers and disposable towels are the preferred option for hand washing. Use
liquid soap and running water, preferably warm.

Wet hands with running water


Use liquid soap and spread over hands
Wash hands all over, including the backs of hands, palms, wrists, between the fingers, under
the fingernails and underneath rings.

Rinse hands thoroughly to remove all suds and germs. This also helps to prevent dermatitis

Turn off tap with a paper towel

Pat hands dry with new paper towel Kitchen sinks are not to be used for washing after
toileting or nappy changing.
It is recommended that cloth towels not be used in Family Day Care as they allow re-contamination
of the hands.
If cloth towels are used, each person or child must have their own individual towel that is laundered
daily.
Liquid soap is advocated rather than solid bar soap because it is less likely to become contaminated.
and more likely to be used. If reusable containers are used for liquid soap, they must be cleaned and
dried before refilling with fresh soap.
Antibacterial hand washes should not be used routinely in Family Day Care as they are unnecessary
and may encourage the development of resistant bacteria.
Educators are encouraged to explain to children why hand washing is important and how it keeps
them safe and healthy. Use a variety of resources such as books, and posters about hand washing
which can strengthen the hand washing message.
In situations where running water is not available
Taps should always be close by in the Family Day Care environment. When taps and sinks for hand
washing are not available (e.g on excursions) use alcohol based wipes to wipe the children’s and your
own hands if they become contaminated. However this temporary clean must be followed by a
proper hand wash as soon as possible. Ensure children do not mouth or inhale fumes from wipes.
Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and as required
References
 Staying Healthy in Child Care – Preventing infectious diseases in child care - 4th edition 2005
 Victorian Government Better Health Channel – hand washing
Resources and Further Readings
 Education and Care Services National Regulations
 Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
 ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
Related Documents
 FDC Resource Manual
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Related FDC Policies/Procedures





Toileting procedure
Nappy Change procedure
Food handling Policy
Excursion Policy
Excursion risk assessment
Create date:
Reviewed:
Next Review date:
June 2006
Jan 2008, April 2012
Mar 2015
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Headlice Policy
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 27.
Evidence of link to:
NQS: 2.1.3, 2.1.4, 7.3.5.
Evidence of link to:
ECSNR: 77.
Policy Statement
Outbreaks of Head Lice continues (Pediculosis capitis) to cause concern and frustration for some
parents, Educators and children. This policy is intended to outline roles, responsibilities and
expectations of the Family Day Care community to assist with treating and controlling head lice in a
consistent and coordinated manner.
Whilst parents have the primary responsibility for the detection and treatment of head lice,
Educators and the Coordination Unit will work in a cooperative and collaborative manner to assist all
families to manage head lice effectively.
Rationale
To create and maintain well informed families, Educators, staff confident in their ability to manage
head lice.
Strategies and Practices
Family roles and responsibilities:
 Ensure that their child does not attend Family Day Care with untreated head lice. Regularly
(preferably once a week) inspect their child’s hair to look for lice or lice eggs. Using conditioner
and a head lice comb is the easiest and most effective way to do this.
 Regularly inspect all household members and then treat them if necessary
 Notify their FDC Educator if their child is found to have live lice and advise when appropriate
treatment was commenced (in accordance with Public Health and Wellbeing Regulations 2009.)
 Encourage children with long hair to tie it back when in care when there is an outbreak of head
lice.
 Use only safe treatment practices which do not place their child’s health at risk. Unsafe practices
include treating hair with product that contains an insecticide more than once a week or using it
as a preventative measure; using flea or tick treatments, fly spray or insecticidal surface sprays
and dangerous products such as kerosene
 Notify the parents/guardians of their child’s friends so they have an early opportunity to detect
and treat their children if necessary
 If ongoing problem the FDC Service may request clearance letter from Doctor
The Coordination Unit will:
Distribute up to date and accurate information on the detection, treatment and control of head lice
to parents and FDC Educators;
Keep informed of current research and practice and Include information and updates in newsletters;
Provide practical advice and maintain a sympathetic attitude and avoid stigmatising/blaming families
who are experiencing difficulty with control measures;
Access community educational resources and support, community health centres and local
government;
Abide by the recommendations of the School and Children’s Service Centre Exclusion Policy of the
Public Health and Wellbeing Regulations 2009 in that the responsibility to exclude a child from the
childcare rests with the FDC Educator and Co-ordination Unit, and
Only exclude children from FDC who have live insects;
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
The Coordination Unit will:
 Accept the advice of parents that appropriate treatment has commenced;
 Encourage children to learn about head lice so as to help remove any stigma or ‘bullying’
associated with the issue;
 Be aware of real difficulties some parents may encounter and seek extra support if required;
 Review the head lice policy annually and seek endorsement from the Childcare
Council/Community;
 Act responsibly and respectfully when dealing with parents/guardians, FDC Educators and broader
community especially around issues of Head Lice;
 Continue to seek opportunities to increase our collective understanding of and response to
managing head lice.
The Educators will:
Abide by the recommendations of the School and Children’s Service Centre Exclusion Policy of the
Public Health and Wellbeing Regulation 2009 in that the responsibility to exclude a child from FDC
rests with the FDC Educator and Co-ordination Unit, and
 Only exclude children from FDC who have live insects;
 Accept the advice of parents that appropriate treatment has commenced;
 Encourage children to learn about head lice so as to help remove any stigma or ‘bullying’
associated with the issue;
 Be aware of real difficulties some parents may encounter and seek extra support if required;
 Act responsibly and respectfully when dealing with parents/guardians, FDC Educators and broader
community especially around issues of Head Lice;
 Continue to seek opportunities to increase our collective understanding of and response to
managing head lice.
 Maintain a sympathetic attitude and avoid stigmatising or blaming families who are finding it hard
to control issues of head lice
Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and as required
References
 Staying Healthy in Child Care 5th Edition 2005
 Department of Health: Head lice management guidelines June 2012
 Department of Health: Treating and controlling head lice June 2012
www.health.vic.gov.au/headlice/
Resources and Further Readings
 Education and Care Services National Regulations
 Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
 ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
Related FDC Documents
 DHS exclusion table
Related FDC Policies/Procedures
N/A
Create date
Reviewed:
Next Review date
Oct 2008
May 2010, April 2012, Aug 2013
Aug 2015
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Immunisation and Infectious Disease Policy
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 28.
Evidence of link to:
NQS:2.1, 2.1.3, 2.1.4.
Evidence of link to:
ECSNR: 88, 162 (f), 168 (2) (c)
Policy Statement
Children are often infectious before symptoms appear. Therefore, it is important for Educators to
operate their business ensuring good hygiene practices at all times.
It is also important that educators and staff act appropriately and with sensitivity when dealing with
an infectious child and their family. Educators, Co-ordination unit staff and families need to be
informed about infectious diseases that are common in early childhood settings.
Rationale
To ensure all stakeholders are familiar with the procedures to reduce the spread of infectious
diseases in Family Day Care.
Definitions
Exclusion:
Illness:
Infectious disease:
Immunisation status:
Unable to attend or participate in a program.
Any sickness and/or associated symptoms that affect a child’s normal
participation in a program.
A communicable disease that could be spread from person to person by
air, water, interpersonal contact by any direct or indirect means (see
Department of Health Exclusion Table – The Public health and Wellbeing
Regulations 2009)).
The record of a child’s immunisation compared to the recommended
immunisation schedule. (see National Immunisation Program Schedule)
Strategies and Practices
Infectious Diseases
The Department of Health Exclusion Table - is to be available at the educator’s homes.
Parents/guardians are required to notify the educator if their child has an infectious disease. During
the exclusion period for an infected person or contacts with that person, that child or adult must
comply with the exclusion period and not attend the service.
Responsibilities:
The Co-ordination unit will:
 Gather immunisation status of each child, which is recorded on the enrolment form.
Immunisation status is sighted on enrolment. Add non immunised children to online register.
 Provide information and resources to educators on how to prevent the transmission of infectious
diseases.
 Model safe hygienic practices to educators and children where possible e.g. hand washing.
 Contact the Department of health Communicable Diseases section on 1300 651 160 to notify:
When a child is suffering from a vaccine preventable disease (VPD)
(Refer National Immunisation Program Schedule)
 If a child is diagnosed with a communicable disease refer to the Department of Health
Communicable Diseased Exclusion Table
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Educators will:
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Provide a safe and healthy environment for children
Be aware of a child’s immunisation status on their enrolment form.
Notify the FDC Coordination unit of any outbreak of an infectious disease.
When necessary, exclude a child or other person with an infectious disease in line with the
recommended exclusion period (see Department of Health Communicable Diseases Exclusion
Table in FDC Handbook).
Notify all parents/guardians of any outbreak of an infectious disease. Information is to be
displayed in a prominent position. This should be done in a manner that ensures confidentiality
for any child, family, Educator and their family and Support Staff.
Advise parents/guardians on enrolment that the Department of Health Communicable Diseases
Exclusion Table will be applied to any infectious disease event.
Minimise the risk of infection to others by following strict personal and environmental
hygiene practices.
Respond to the needs of children if a child becomes ill while in care.
Provide up-to-date information for families and Educators on immunisation and the protection of
all children from infectious diseases.
Parents/Guardians will:
 Notify the FDC Service and Educator of their child’s immunisation status. This will include if they
choose not to immunise their child (conscientious objector)
 Notify the FDC service if their child has an infectious disease.
 Keep infectious or sick children away from the care environment.
 Promptly pick up a sick or infectious child that becomes ill whilst in care.
 Provide accurate and current information regarding the immunisation status of their
Child/children when they enrol and any subsequent changes to this whilst they are attending the
FDC Service.
 Comply with the DHCD exclusion table
 Communicate with the educator about the child’s health and wellbeing.
 Notify the Educator if the child is being tested for an infectious disease.
Immunisation for Children
When a child is enrolled at the Early Childhood Service parents are required to indicate if their child
has been immunised on the enrolment form. A staff member will site the Immunisation record of the
child on enrolment. It is a requirement of the Commonwealth Government that children’s
immunisation records are kept up to date. Notices and relevant information regarding immunisation
is provided to educators and parents.
Staff immunisation
Educators who are required to undertake tasks which have been identified as having a risk of
exposure to blood borne and other diseases are encouraged to have vaccinations for Hepatitis A,
Hepatitis B, Tetanus, Whooping Cough and Influenza as required.
Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and as required
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
References





Education and Care Services National Regulations 2011
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
Health Records Act 2001; Health (Infectious Diseases) Regulations 2001 (amended March 2008)
Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004
Staying Healthy in Child Care, 5th edition, available at
www.nhmrc.gov.au/publications or email nhmrc.publications@nhmrc.gov.au or
 http://www.health.vic.gov.au/immunisation/resources/deecd_immunisation.htm
Resources and Further Readings






Education and Care Services National Regulations
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
Childcare service Handbook 2011-2012 (DEEWR)
VEYLDF, EYLF, MTOP
www.health.vic.gov.au/immunisation
Related FDC Documents




Illness Form
Department of Health Exclusion Table
National Immunisation Program schedule
Immunisation for people who work with children
Related FDC Policies/Procedures
 Illness Policy
Create date:
Reviewed:
Next Review date
2008
April 2012, Aug 2013
September 2015
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Incident, Injury, Trauma and Illness Policy
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 29.
Evidence of link to:
NQS: 2.1.1, 2.1.4, 2.3.3, 2.3.4, 7.3.1
Evidence of link to:
ECSNR: 85, 86, 87, 168 (2) (b), 177
Policy Statement
To safeguard the health and wellbeing of children by managing further risks and seeking appropriate
medical treatment in the event of an illness, accident or emergency.
Rationale
In the event of an accident or an emergency situation the Educator has a duty of care to take
immediate action and provide appropriate services or care to those involved.
In the case of serious injury or illness, the Educator is not required to diagnose or treat the condition
apart from carrying out the appropriate first aid procedures. Diagnosis and treatment are the
responsibility of the ambulance officer or medical practitioner in attendance.
Strategies and Practices
The Coordination Unit will:
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Support Educators with relevant forms for collecting authority and information
Be familiar with regulatory requirements in relation to dealing with emergency situations with
children
On enrolment of a child, ensure the family has given written authorisation for any Educators or
staff member of the service, to seek and/or carry out emergency ambulance, medical, hospital or
dental advice or treatment if required
Notify the families or emergency contacts under these circumstances as soon as it is possible to
do so
Have current First Aid, Asthma and Anaphylaxis qualifications
Upon receiving notification of a serious incident involving a child attending Family Day Care
where the incident results in the child receiving medical, dental or hospital treatment
immediately notify the family, COGG Family Services Manager and DEECD (within 24 hours).
Upon receiving notice of a death of a child while being provided with care, the nominated
supervisor will immediately notify the child’s family, a police officer, COGG Family Services
Manager and DEECD (within 24 hours)
Educators will call an ambulance then inform families in the case of an emergency or lifethreatening situation, (Ambulance coverage is beneficial to avoid full charge liability)
Keep accurate incident, injury, trauma and illness records and store confidentially until the child
is 25 years old.
Provide debriefing sessions and support to Educators who have supported a child through a
trauma
The Educators Will:
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Take all precautions to reduce the incidence of accidents and injuries that can occur which need
to be responded to effectively e.g burns, convulsions, fractures, cuts
Regularly practice emergency procedures
Display contact numbers of emergency services, FDC Coordination Unit and families near a
telephone
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
The Educators Will:
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Have current First Aid, Asthma and Anaphylaxis qualifications
In the event of an accident, injury, trauma or illness, inform the family or emergency contact as
soon as possible so that they can take over the responsibility of their child and decide on further
action if necessary
Inform Parents/guardians of any medical attention given, medication administered to the child
and any other matter concerning the child's health that comes to the notice of the Educator.
Complete a notice of incident, injury and trauma report immediately, obtain parent signatures
and forward to the Coordination Unit as soon as possible
Inform the Coordination Unit of any injury to a child that requires First Aid or medical treatment.
Inform the Coordination Unit of any serious incident. In the event of such an emergency
occurring outside office hours, the Educator must contact the FDC Team Leader on 0419 891
841 and inform FDC Co-ordination Unit staff of the incident.
Notify their insurance company of any injury to a child that requires medical treatment
In the event of the death of a child while being provided with care, the Educator will immediately
call an ambulance, the child’s family and the Coordination Unit
If any child requires medical attention for an incident, injury, trauma or illness, DEECD is required to
be notified by the FDC Co-ordination unit within 24 hrs of the incident, injury, trauma or illness
occurring. (see ‘How to report a serious incident’ procedure)
Families will:
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Provide up to date medical and contact information in case of an emergency
Provide up to date medical action plans if applicable to their child’s health
Review and update medical action plans annually
Take over the responsibility of their child as a matter of urgency if contacted by their child’s
Educator to do so.
Be responsible for ambulance cover.
Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and, as required.
References

DEECD Children’s Services Guide, Staying Healthy in Child Care NHMRC, Kidsafe
Resources and Further Readings





Education and Care Services National Regulations
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
Childcare service Handbook 2011-2012 (DEEWR)
VEYLDF, EYLF, MTOP
Related FDC Documents




FDC Notice of Incident, injury Trauma Report
FDC Lines Register Form
FDC Notice of illness Report
FDC Enrolment Form
Related FDC Policies/Procedures
 First Aid Policy
Create date:
Reviewed
Next Review date:
April 2012
June 2013 CH
June 2015
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Medication Policy
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 30.
Evidence of link to:
NQS: 2.1.1
Evidence of link to:
ECSNR: 92-96, 178, 181-184
It is preferred that medication be administered by parents/guardians, however in the event that this
is not possible the following policy is to be observed.
Cough and cold medication is not to be administered to children under the age of 6 years of age.
Cough and cold medication should only be provided to children from the ages of 6-11yrs of age, on
the advice of a doctor, pharmacist or nurse practitioner. (Cough and Cold medicine alert for parents
- August 2012)
Policy Statement
Family Day Care acknowledges that administering medication should be considered a high risk
practice. Permission must be obtained from a parent/guardian or authorised person listed on the
child’s enrolment form before Educators administer any medication (prescribed or non-prescribed
needs to be labelled). Families place a high level of trust and responsibility on Educators when they
are administering medication to children.
Rationale
To ensure all medications are administered in a safe and accountable manner according to the
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010 and Regulations.
Strategies and Practices
Co-ordination Unit staff will:
 Provide all families with relevant information about health management policies and practices on
enrolment and regularly after that through newsletters
 Provide resources and current information to Educators and families on health matters when
required
 Provide forms for Educators to record relevant health and medication details
 Support families and Educators when dealing with health management matters
 Confidentially store health and medical details on children until they reach the age of 24 years
 Keep up to date on current health management practices
 Request families to update their child enrolment forms annually to ensure current medical
authorisations and conditions are updated.
Educators will:
In relation to administering medications, Educators must ensure:
 They comply with all relevant children’s legislation, regulations, policies and guidelines,
 Prior written parental consent is obtained.
 They act in the best interests of the safety and health of the child.
 Not administer the first dose of a newly prescribed medicine. The parent(s) or medical/nursing
professionals should administer it.
 Ensure all medication administered is in the original packaging, bearing the original label. All
medication must be labelled with the child’s name and must state on the label the medication
name and strength, the date of prescription, dosage and times to be administered, as well as the
expiry date of the preparation. Educators are not to give unidentified medication or medication to
a child if the instructions are not clear to the Educator e.g in an unfamiliar language to the
Educator
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Educators will:
 Ensure that prescribed medication is only used on the basis that the child has seen a doctor and
the doctor has directed, by script or in writing, that such medication is appropriate. A doctor’s
written instructions or pharmacist’s label will normally be sufficient.
 Store medication appropriately and in a safe and secure place. (refer to all instructions on product
label). All medication must be kept in a cupboard, fridge compartment or secure container in the
refrigerator, cupboard and out of direct sunlight and separated from other items. Medication
must not be left in the child’s bag. It must be out of reach of children at all times.
 Ensure Parent/guardian completes a parent authorisation to administer medication form for all
medication that has to be administered. This shall include the time and dose and a summary of
the doses of medication administered by the parent at home in the previous 24-hour period.
 Educators will ensure that written instructions of the family are consistent with the instruction on
the labelled medication or as prescribed by a doctor.
 Administer medication to children promptly and strictly in accordance with the instructions and
the permission form. The record of the dose being given must be completed. Any medication that
is spilled or spoiled should also be recorded on the medication form.
 Ensure all long-term medication is accompanied by written permission from the doctor, outlining
the likely length of time that the child is to be treated with this medication. The doctor should
also outline a review plan, indicating a time for reassessing treatment.
 Ensure ongoing medication taken on an irregular basis (eg creams, when required for skin allergy)
has written permission and specific instructions to indicate when administration is appropriate.
The doctor should also outline a review plan, indicating a time for reassessing treatment.
 Document time and dose following administering of all medication, on an official medication book
or form. Parents should be notified of all medication that has been administered
 Return “Request to administer medication” forms to the Co-ordination Unit at the end of each
calendar year /or when a child has ceased care. These forms must be kept until the child is 24
years old for liability/insurance purposes. After reaching maturity at age 18, a child could still have
3 (or less likely 6) years in which to sue for negligent use of medication. This is only in the very
unlikely instance that the parent of the child had not sued before then.
 Consult with the Coordination Unit If they have a concern about a request to administer any
medication. If this concern is raised out of service operation hours, the FDC Educator must consult
with the child’s doctor or the Drug Information Service at the Royal Children’s Hospital pharmacy
on 9345 5208. On weekends or after hours, the Poisons Information Centre on 131 126.
 Comply to the management plans of children with chronic health problems, such as Asthma,
epilepsy. Diabetes, severe allergy and anaphylaxis.
 Medication can be administered to a child without an authorisation in the case of an anaphylaxis
(child’s own Epipen/Anipen) or Asthma emergency, in accordance with their own medical
management plan. In this case the Educators will ensure the parent of the child and/or
emergency services and the Coordination Unit are notified as soon as practicable
 In the case of FDC, a second person is not required to check the dosage and witness the
administration of medication
Medication must not be administered by FDC Educators/Co-ordination unit staff if:
 It is complex and requires skill to use and the FDC Educator has not received suitable training
 It is out of date
 The medication packaging does not have the child’s name recorded or supporting documentation
from a doctor.
 The container has no label
 The FDC Educator does not have an appropriate measuring glass or spoon
 It is in any way outside the guidelines set in this policy, or the rules of this policy have not been
followed
 Immediately after administration of a dose, the medication must be returned to the appropriate
storage area. Medications must not be left within reach of children, or unattended at any time.
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Practices for self administration of medication eg, cough drops, nasal spray, creams, ventolin
If a child self administers medication ensure the correct procedure is followed.
A child over preschool age may self administer medication under the following circumstances:
 Written authorisation is provided by the person with the authority to consent to the
administration of medication on the child enrolment form.
 Medication is to be provided to the educator for safe storage, and they will provide to the child
when required.
 Self Administration of medication for children over preschool age will be fully supervised by the
educator.
Families will:
 Provide a summary of their child’s health, medications, allergies, doctors name, address and
phone number, and a health management plan approved by a doctor to the Coordination unit
staff and Educator prior to starting care and ongoing as required
 Keep the Educator up to date with any changes to a child’s medical condition or health
management plan
 Provide medication in it’s original package
 Complete the parent authorisation to administer medication form to their child, on a daily basis
or as required, and sign on pick up.
 Request the Educator to administer only the recommended dosage on the original medications
package.
Medical Action plans
 Asthma, anaphylaxis, diabetes & allergy plans must be reviewed annually and monitored by a
Doctor.
 This section is to be read in conjunction with the Asthma and Anaphylaxis Policy.
Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and as required
References
 Staying Healthy in Child Care – preventing infectious diseases in chid care 5th edition – 2011
 Family Day Care Victoria Medication Policy in consultation with Royal Children’s Hospital
 Cough and Cold medicine alert for parents – August 2012.
http://www.health.gov.au/internet/ministers/publishing.nsf/Content/mr-yr12-ck-ck041.htm
Resources and Further Readings





Education and Care Services National Regulations
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
Childcare service Handbook 2011-2012 (DEEWR)
VEYLDF, EYLF, MTOP
Related FDC Documents









FDC Educator Handbook
Parent authorisation to administer medication
Enrolment form
Asthma action plan
Diabetes management plan
Epilepsy management plan
Anaphylaxis action plan
Allergic reaction management plan
Eczema management plan
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Related FDC Policies/Procedures
 Anaphylaxis policy
 Asthma policy
 Medical conditions policy
Create date:;
Dec 2004
Reviewed:
June 2006, Feb 2007, May 2010, June 2012, September 2014
Next Review date: September 2015
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Nappy Changing Procedure
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 31.
Evidence of link to:
NQS: 2.1.2, 2.1.3, 3.1.1
Evidence of link to:
ECSNR: 112
Procedure Statement
Many diseases are spread by faeces, urine or other bodily fluids. Efficient changing and disposal of
soiled nappies, significantly reduces the risk and the spread of diseases transmitted by faeces and
bodily fluids.
Rationale
Educators will minimise the spread and risk of infectious diseases between children and educators by
ensuring nappy changing is conducted with safe hygiene practices.
Strategies and Practices
To prevent risks and the spread of infectious diseases that are transferred by faeces and other bodily
fluids through changing nappies with infants and non-toilet trained children:
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Have a separate area specifically for nappy changing with hand washing facilities in the
immediate vicinity
Encourage a walking child to walk to the change area
Children are to be supervised at all times when on nappy change table, ensure children are
secured with a safety harness on raised nappy changing tables, or surfaces
Ensure that everything required for nappy changing is ready before the procedure is
commenced.
Dispose of all contaminated material in a closed bin lined with a plastic bag.
If in an outdoor bin, nappy to be wrapped and placed in a closed bin.
Keep all nappy change solutions, wipes, all soiled nappies and clothes inaccessible to children.
Ensure other children in care are adequately supervised when changing nappies
When changing nappies:
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Talk with families about routines at home and child’s preferred schedule to ensure consistency.
Change nappies frequently to ensure health, hygiene, privacy and comfort are maintained.
Ensure nappy change areas are safe, comfortable and hygienic a way from food preparation and
consumption areas.
Explain to the child why a change of nappy or clothing is needed.
Interact with children in a positive way about nappy changing.
Use nappy changing as an opportunity to engage in one to one interaction.
Wash your hands
Wear disposable gloves for all nappy changes
Remove the child’s nappy and soiled clothes
Place soiled disposable nappy in a plastic bag.
Place soiled cloth nappies or clothes in a sealed plastic bag and send home with family at the end
of the day
Clean the child’s bottom, wiping from front to back with a moist disposable towelette and
dispose into a plastic bag.
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
When changing nappies:
Remove gloves before you touch the child’s clean clothes, by peeling them back from your wrists, do
not let your skin touch the contaminated surface of the gloves, dispose of gloves in a plastic bag to
minimise cross infection
 Put on a clean nappy and dress child
 Wash child’s hands, take child away from change table or area, and clean the change mat or
surface after each nappy change.
 Wash your hands using the hand washing guidelines
After each nappy change:
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Wash the change mat or surface with detergent and warm water, use a paper towel to wipe and
dry the surface, put the paper in the bin.
If surface is contaminated with body fluid (eg faeces or urine) clean with detergent and water,
then wipe with bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) leave to dry.
Disinfect the surface at the end of the day by washing with warm water and detergent, then
wiping with bleach solution and leave to dry.
Ensure bleach solution is kept out of the reach of children.
Wash your hands after cleaning the mat
Dispose of and replace any change mats that have exposed foam or that are unable to be fully
disinfected after each use.
Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and as required
References
 www.nhmrc.gov.au
 Staying Healthy in Child Care – Preventing infectious diseases in child care – 4th
edition 2005
Resources and Further Readings
 Education and Care Services National Regulations
 Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
 ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
Related FDC Documents
Related FDC Policies/Procedures


Toileting procedure
Hand washing Policy
Create date:
Reviewed:
Next Review date:
June 2006
Dec 2007, June 2010, April 2012, Feb 2013, January 2015
Feb 2016
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Nutrition Policy
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 32.
Evidence of link to:
NQS: 2.1.4, 2.2, 2.2.1, 7.3.5,
Evidence of link to:
ECSNR: 168(2)(a), 80 (3)(a &b)
Policy Statement
The City of Greater Geelong Family Day Care scheme recognises that the early years of a child’s life
is a critical period for their healthy development and growth. During this time, both physical and
intellectual development is largely dependent upon adequate nutritional intake. Good nutrition is
essential to healthy living and enables children to be active participants in play and leisure.
Rationale
To ensure all children in Family Day Care are offered varied, safe and nutritious meals, that are
culturally appropriate and sufficient enough to meet the needs of each child. Whether supplied by
the Educator or Parent food should be stored in a safe, hygienic manner. Educators, staff and
families should recognise that they are role models and are encouraged to provide food and drinks
that are in line with the nutrition and oral health policies.
Strategies and Practices
The Coordination Unit will
 Provide parents with a copy of the FDC Nutrition Policy and discuss at the initial enrolment
interview
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Ascertain on initial enquiry whether children have any food induced allergies and ensure the
relevant documentation (Anaphylaxis Management Plan, Allergy Action Plan and Risk
minimisation plan) are completed in consultation with parent/guardian and the child’s medical
practitioner.
Collect and record relevant information about individual special dietary requirements of children
(i.e allergies, cultural etc) if required
Encourage families to provide adequate and nutritious meals for their child while in care
Encourage and support all Educators and staff to attend professional development relating to
nutrition, food safety and oral hygiene
Include nutrition, food safety and oral hygiene information into new Educator orientation
Provide nutrition, food safety and oral hygiene professional development on regular basis
Provide up to date information and resources to Educators and families on nutrition, food
preparation and storage and oral hygiene.
Encourage and support breastfeeding
Work in partnership with the Healthy Together Geelong Project to deliver and promote healthy
eating and oral initiatives
Educators Will:

At the initial meeting with parents, discuss and document on the FDC Educator Parent agreement
form the following

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How the Nutrition policy will be implemented in their service
The child’s routine and food requirements, including culturally appropriate food
Whether there are any food induced allergies
Foods deemed unsuitable (as per the policy) will not be given to children and will be given back to
parents at the end of the day. FDC Educators need to consider a strategy on replacement meals
should this occur.
Have water available at all times for children. Personal water bottles clearly labelled with
the child’s name may assist in encouraging children to drink water

Educators Will:
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
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Not provide sweet drinks, including fruit juice, cordial, flavoured milk, sports drinks
Provide meals and snacks to children on a regular but flexible basis taking into consideration the
child’s nutritional requirements.
Continue to offer foods even if children reject them at first – They need to see and taste new
foods several times before they become familiar and are accepted.
Encourage children to taste a wide variety of foods with a range of flavours, colours, textures and
aromas through menus and food
Will involve children in healthy food experiences through growing, food preparation and cooking.
Encourage to become independent with pouring drinks, self feeding, serving, accessing snack
boxes (with FDC Educator guidance), using utensils, setting tables and clearing up and involve in
easy food preparation/cooking activities
Allow sufficient time for the child to eat without hurrying.
Encourage children to eat healthy food without being required to eat food they don’t like or to eat
more than they want. Allow simple decision making regarding choice
Will provide a supportive, respectful and encouraging environment for bottle / breast feeding.
Will discuss the value of ‘everyday’ food and ‘sometimes’ foods as well as healthy living.
Encourage children to be seated whilst eating (with the FDC Educator when possible) for safety
reasons, to aid digestion, and to encourage social interaction.
Provide a positive eating environment with relaxed, social and enjoyable experiences that
promote healthy lifestyles, good nutrition and oral health by role modelling at mealtimes and
throughout the day.
Will not use food or drink as an incentive, bribe or reward at any time
Provide food that is healthy and includes fruit and vegetables every day and limits foods that are
high in fat, salt and sugar.
Encourage parents providing meals / snacks to provide nutritious food including fruit and
vegetables daily. Pre packaged snacks such as chips, chocolates, lollies and muesli and fruit bars
are discouraged. Refer to tip sheets / information attached.
Regularly update food safety and nutrition training and oral health.
Boil all water for infants that is to be fed to infants under than 6 months
Not provide alcohol to infants, children or adolescents.
If providing meals Educators will:

Will promote the consumption of fruit and vegetables and healthy food options in line with
Australia Dietary Guidelines

Will submit a 2 week menu cycle, along with any recipes to be assessed by the Victorian Healthy
Eating Advisory Service to ensure it meets with Australian dietary guidelines. An assessment
report will be provided with feedback.

Will display a weekly menu at the service ECSNR 80 (3) (a&b)
Families will;
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Provide food that is pre-prepared so that it can be either eaten cold or reheated only to ensure
that the FDC Educator is not spending significant time away from children when cooking or
putting meals together.
Not provide juices, soft drink, flavoured milk or sports drinks.
Provide nutritious meals/snacks, including fruit and vegetables daily. Avoid Pre packaged high
sugar or salty snacks like chocolate bars, noodle snacks, fruit straps/rolls and check the
nutritional information on so called “healthy” snacks (like muesli bars or biscuits). Treats or
“sometimes” food should be saved for special occasions and should not be taken to Family Day
Care. These include: cakes, donuts, chips, lollies.
Communicate current dietary requirements of their children and notify their Educator
immediately of any changes
Notify the Educator if any special dietary requirements are required and provide a written
management plan to the Educator for any allergies. E.g (Diabetic, anaphylaxis etc)
Keep lunchboxes and drink bottles clean and hygienic and follow food safety guidelines when
transporting food.
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Introduction of Solids

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
Introduce solids at around six months of age
Start with low-allergy risk foods such as iron fortified baby cereals; follow this with fruit and
vegetables, and then meats
Add only one food at a time and wait a few days before introducing a new food
Pasteurised full fat cows milk may be introduced to a child’s diet in foods such as breakfast
cereal, yoghurts, custards, cheese, once meats are being eaten. However cow’s milk is not
recommended, as a drink, until after 12 months.
Milk and Dairy Foods
0 - 2 years:
Reduced fat milk and skim milk should not be given to children
under 2 years
2 - 5 years:
Reduced fat milk and dairy products can be offered to children
over 2 years of age.
Skim milk is not suitable for children under 5, however can be used in family
meals e.g. custard.
Over 5 years:
Skim and reduced fat milks and dairy products are appropriate to
use for children over 5years.
Care should be taken to:

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
Limit saturated fat and moderate total fat intake. Low-fat diets are not suitable for infants.
Choose foods low in salt.
Consume only moderate amounts of sugars and foods containing added sugars.
Food Safety


Care for children’s food – prepare and store it safely.
Follow food safety guidelines.
Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and as required
References




The Healthy eating and physical activity guidelines for early childhood (Get up and Grow
resources 2009)
Child nutrition website: www.health.vic.gov.au/nutrition/chld_nutritiion/index
www.healh.vic.gov.au
Australian Dietary Guidelines
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Resources and Further Readings


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
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





Education and Care Services National Regulations 2011
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
VEYLDF, EYLF, MTOP
Good Food in Family Day Care (National Family Day Care Council of Australia)
Department of Nutrition and Food Services Royal Children’s Hospital
Dental Health Services Victoria
Kids – ‘Go for your life ‘
Victorian Healthy eating Advisory Service
Healthy Together Geelong – Advice for parents and guardians Tip sheet
Raising Children Network Parent fact sheets – Children’s teeth and how to brush them, looking
after teeth and gums, healthy food for healthy teeth
Related FDC Policies/Procedures

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



FDC Preparation, Storage and heating of infant formula and breast milk
FDC Active Play Policy
FDC Anaphylaxis Management Policy
Tobacco, smoke, drug and alcohol free environment policy
FDC Food Safety Policy
Anaphylaxis Management Plan
Allergy Action Plan
Oral Hygiene Policy
Create date:
Reviewed:
Next Review date:
May 2005
June 2006, Dec 2007, May 2010, April 2012, July 2013,
May 2015
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Preparing, Heating & Storage of
Infant Formula & Breast Milk Procedure
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 33.
Evidence of link to:
NQS: 2.2.1
Evidence of link to:
ECSNR: 77, 78, 79
Strategies and Practices
The 4-Hour /2-Hour Rule
The 4-hour/2-hour rule provides guidelines regarding the safety of food when it has not been stored
under 5°C or over 60°C. Ready to eat food that has been at temperatures between 5°C and 60°C:
 For a total of less than 2 hours, must be refrigerated or used immediately (do not reheat
milk/formula)
• For a total of longer than 2 hours but less than 4 hours, must be used immediately
• For a total of 4 hours or longer, must be thrown out.
Infant Formula
Before you use any infant formula, always check the date on the bottom of the tin to ensure it has
not passed its expiry date.
Issues considered when preparing formula:
 Use the infant formula powder within one month of opening the tin.
 Always wash your hands thoroughly before preparing infant formula and ensure your
preparation area is clean.
 Use cooled boiled water only. Very hot water will destroy many of the nutrients in the infant
formula.
 Follow the manufacturer’s instructions strictly when making up infant formula; accuracy is
important to make sure the child receives the correct nutrition.
Storing prepared infant formula

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You can make up several bottles at a time.
Once made, infant formula must be kept refrigerated (at the back of fridge is best option).
Throw away any leftover prepared formula after 24 hours.
Discard any formula left in the bottle after a feed.
Do not use leftovers
Discard any leftover infant formula following the feed. Never offer the child leftover infant formula
at the next feed. It can grow bacteria (germs) that may make babies unwell.
Remember



Always follow the instructions on the can of infant formula.
Always use the scoop provided in the can of infant formula.
Always keep hot liquids & appliances away from the reach of children
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Breast Milk
Mothers of Breast fed babies should be encouraged to provide expressed breast milk or to visit the
educators home to feed their babies.
\
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Breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator for 48 hours or in a deep freezer for
6 - 12
months, depending upon the deep freeze.
Frozen breast milk should be thawed quickly—it should not be put it in boiling water or it will
curdle.
Place the container under cold running water. Gradually allow the water to get warmer until the
milk becomes liquid.
It is not recommended to use a microwave to thaw or warm expressed breast milk.
Do not shake the thawed breast milk – roll gently to mix.
Ensure the temperature is not excessive and there is no danger that the baby could be scalded.
Ensure breast milk is clearly labelled with the child’s name and the time and date the milk was
expressed.
Throw away any milk that is left over.
Do not re-freeze or re-heat left-over milk.
Ask mothers to supply breast milk in multiple small quantities to prevent wastage.
Bottle & Breast Milk Warming – No Use of Microwaves
After taking into account the service’s individual circumstances and environments the following
procedure is to be followed to ensure children’s bottles are warmed in a safe manner without the
use of microwave ovens.



For the safest and most practical warming of bottles, use a bottle warmer for warming children’s
bottles, including cow’s milk, formula or breast milk.
Heating bottles in a jug with warmed water is also another suitable option.
Each educator will take into account, with assistance from families, the time each bottle needs to
be warmed for, according to each child’s individual needs.
Issues considered when deciding on the bottle warming method were:
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The number of bottles to be warmed at a time.
Access to power sources for bottle warmers.
Inaccessibility of hot water and power sources to children.
How hot water will be handled to minimise occupational health and safety risks.
Educator to maintain adequate supervision of children at all times.
Bottle warming procedure:

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

Add water to the bottle warmer or jug (out of reach of children).
Switch bottle warmer on or place jug out of reach.
Place milk bottle into the warmer or jug and leave to heat for the required time.
Always test heat of milk before feeding to a child.
Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and as required
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
References






Better Health Channel
DEECD, MCH, Child Health Record
The Children’s Hospital at Westmead.
Staying Healthy in Childcare – Fourth Edition
Putting Children First – Magazine of the NCAC
National Health & Medical Research Council
Resources and Further Readings




Education and Care Services National Regulations
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
VEYLDF, EYLF, MTOP
Related Documents
N/A
Related FDC Policies/Procedures


Nutrition Policy
Food Safety policy
Policy created date: April 2012
Policy Reviewed:
Review date:
June 2015
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Sunsmart Policy
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 34.
Evidence of link to:
NQS: 2.3, 2.3.2, 7.3.5,
Evidence of link to:
ECSNR: 168 (2) (ii),
The City of Greater Geelong Family Day Care service is an accredited SunSmart service with the
Cancer Council Victoria’s SunSmart Early Childhood Program.
Policy Statement
The City of Greater Geelong Family Day Care SunSmart policy has been developed to ensure that all
children and staff maintain a healthy balance between too little and too much ultraviolet (UV)
radiation from the sun.
Rationale
A healthy balance between too much and too little ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is
important for health. Too much UV from the sun can cause sunburn, skin damage, eye damage and
skin cancer. Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Two in three
Australians will develop some form of skin cancer before they reach the age of 70. Overexposure to
UV during childhood and adolescence is known to be a major cause of skin cancer.
Too little UV from the sun can lead to vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D regulates calcium levels in the
blood. It is also necessary for the development and maintenance of healthy bones, muscles and
teeth.
To ensure a healthy balance between too much and too little UV is maintained, sun protection is
used from the 1st of September until the 30th of April and whenever the UV Index level reaches 3 and
above. From May until August, sun protection is not used unless the UV Index level reaches 3 and
above.
Strategies and Practices
 All children, FDC Educators and staff use a combination of sun protection measures whenever UV
Index levels reach 3 and above. Particular care is taken between 10 am and 2pm (11 am and 3 pm
daylight saving time) when UV Index levels reach their peak during the day.
 Sun protection measures are not used from May until August unless the UV Index level reaches 3
and above. (www.sunsmart.com.au Today’s UV levels.)
 The scheme’s SunSmart practises consider the special needs of infants. Babies under 12 months
are kept out of direct sun.
Managing the physical environment shade
 The availability of shade is considered when planning excursions and outdoor activities.
 Children are encouraged to use available areas of shade when outside.
 Prams or strollers should have a hood that can be adjusted to block out the direct sun.
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Protective behaviours and practices
Clothing
 When outside, children, FDC Educators and staff are required to wear loose fitting clothing that
covers as much skin as possible. (Please note: singlet tops do not offer enough protection and are
therefore not appropriate).
Hats
 All children, FDC Educators and staff are required to wear hats that protect their face, back of the
neck, eyes and ears, i.e. legionnaire, broad-brimmed or bucket hats. (Please note: baseball caps
do not offer enough protection and are therefore not recommended.)
 The policy of “No hats/appropriate clothing, no outdoor play” will be enforced by FDC Educators
and Family Day Care staff.
Sunglasses (suggested)
 Children and FDC Educators are encouraged to wear close fitting, wrap around sunglasses that
meet the Australian Standard 1067:2003 (Sunglasses: Category 2, 3 or 4) and cover as much of the
eye area as possible. Toy and fashion-labelled glasses do not meet the Australian standard.
Sunscreen
 SPF 30+, broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen is available for FDC Educators and children's
use.
 FDC Educators will observe strict health and hygiene practices when applying sunscreen to
minimise risks to themselves and children.
 Sunscreen is applied at least 20 minutes before going outdoors and reapplied every two hours
when outdoors.
 For children with naturally very dark skin, please discuss with your educator about the
requirement of sunscreen being applied to your child.
Role modelling
FDC Educators and staff will act as role models by:
 Wearing sun protective hats / clothing, and sunglasses when outside
 Applying SPF 30+ broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen
 Seeking shade whenever possible
Sharing information about sun protection
 The children learn about skin and ways to protect their skin from the sun.
 FDC Educators and families are provided with information on sun protection
 When enrolling their child, families are:
 Informed of the scheme’s sun protection policy.
 Asked to provide a suitable hat for their child.
 Asked to provide their child with suitable outdoor clothing that is cool and covers as much skin as
possible.
 Asked to provide SPF30+, broad spectrum sunscreen for their child
 Required to give permission for staff to apply sunscreen to their child.
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Review
 Management and FDC Educators monitor and review the effectiveness of the SunSmart policy
every two years and revise the policy when required.
Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and as required
References
 The Cancer Council Victoria website www.sunsmart.com.au
 www.cancer.org.au/sunsmart
 COGG Heat and UV Procedure
Resources and Further Readings

www.bom.gov.au/products/UV/Geelong_VIC.shtml (for UV rating)


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
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
ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
Education and Care Services National Regulations
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
Childcare service Handbook 2011-2012 (DEEWR)
VEYLDF, EYLF, MTOP
Australian Standards for sun protection clothing, sun glasses and shade cloth
The Victorian Prevention and Health Promotion Achievement Program – Sun protection
benchmarks 2012

For further information:
The Cancer Council Victoria
Address:
Email:
Telephone:
Fax:
Hotline:
1 Rathdowne Street, Carlton , Vic 3053
sunsmart@cancervic.org.au
963 5148
9635 5260
131 120
Related FDC Documents

Excursion risk assessment
Related FDC Policies/Procedures

Excursion Policy
Create date
Feb 2003
Reviewed:
Feb 2007, Sept 2009, Feb 2011, April 2012
Next Review date: March 2015
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Tobacco, Smoke, Drug and Alcohol Free Environment Policy
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 35.
Evidence of link to:
NQS: 2.3.2
Evidence of link to:
ECSNR: 82, 83
Policy Statement
The City of Greater Geelong FDC acknowledges the importance of ensuring all children are cared for
in an environment free from tobacco, drugs and alcohol.
Rationale
To ensure that all children placed in FDC are provided with a smoke/alcohol/drug free environment
at all times whilst in care. This is in accordance with the Common Law Duty of Care owed by a FDC
Educator to children within their care, and scientific evidence proving that passive smoking is harmful
for children to be exposed to residual tobacco smoke that clings to clothing and soft furnishings.
This includes the primary FDC Educator, family members, other residents and visitors on the
property, either indoors or outdoors, at any time during Family Day Care hours, including in vehicles,
or on any outing. FDC Educators must ensure that other household members and visitors understand
and comply with requirements for maintaining a smoke free environment during FDC hours.
Strategies and Practices
Family Day Care shall be undertaken in a tobacco smoke, alcohol and drug free environment.

Educators and staff must not consume alcohol or be affected by alcohol or drugs (including
prescription medications) that may impair their capacity to provide education and care to
children in the service

The registered FDC home is to be tobacco smoke/alcohol/drug free when a child/children,
registered with the service, are in attendance at any hour of the day or night. Where tobacco is
smoked in the Family Day Care home when children are not in care, FDC Educators need to
consider issues such as hygiene, ventilation and safe storage of smoking paraphernalia, such as
ash trays, cigarettes, lighters and matches
FDC Educators must as soon as possible, remove or endeavour to remove registered FDC children
from any vicinity where smoking/alcohol/drug consumption is occurring. This includes any
environment which is not under the direct control of FDC
Minimise the risk of children observing people smoking, including images that maybe accessed
by children through photographs, magazines, television, videos, computer games or the internet.
All authorised FDC vehicles and vehicles, private or sponsored, used in transporting FDC children
will be tobacco smoke/alcohol/drug free.
All business, activities and functions undertaken and/or held in the name of FDC must be in
tobacco smoke/alcohol/drug free environments.
The FDC Co-ordination Unit office will be a smoke/alcohol/drug free environment during hours of
operation.
Educators and staff are encouraged to work with local health professionals, services and
organisations to increase their capacity to deliver and promote tobacco, drug, alcohol education
and prevention initiatives.
Educators and staff who smoke will be supported to quit and/or manage their smoking.

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Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and as required
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
References


Family Day Care Victoria inc Resource Unit policy (reviewed April 2005)
Quit Victoria www.quit.org.au
Resources and Further Readings





FDCQA – Factsheet # 15 Smoke Free Environments 2007
Education and Care Services National Regulations
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
The Victorian Prevention and Health Promotion Achievement Program – Tobacco control
benchmarks 2012
Related Documents



COGG Smoking, Alcohol & Drugs Procedure
Victorian Occupational Health & Safety Act 2004
45 S Television and Electronic Media Policy
Related FDC Policies/Procedures


Home Safety Checklist
Family member/Resident roles and responsibilities form
Create date:
Reviewed:
Next Review date:
April 2005
June 2006, Jan 2008, May 2010, April 2012
May 2015
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Toileting Procedure
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 36.
Evidence of link to:
NQS: 2.1.3, 3.1.1, 3.1.3
Evidence of link to:
ECSNR: 109
Rationale
To prevent the risks and spread of diseases that is transmitted by faeces and other bodily fluids
through toileting or toilet training of children. All toileting procedures must be positive experiences
for children at all times.
Strategies and Practices

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Appropriate facilities must be available to support children’s access to toilet and hand washing
facilities e.g stable steps
Consideration must be given to provision of suitable facilities for children with additional needs
Facilities should be able to be conveniently accessed by children from both indoor/outdoor
spaces
Adequate supervision must be maintained while children access toileting with a level of
independence that is appropriate for their stage of development
Separate individual cloth towels or paper towels must be available for hand washing after
toileting
Kitchen sinks are not to be used for hand washing after toileting
Educators must assist/supervise children to wash hands after toileting until they develop
appropriate skills. Use the hand washing guidelines techniques (see Infection Control Policy)
Encourage children to flush the toilet after each use.
Use a toilet in preference to a potty chair. Using a potty chair increases the risk of the spread of
diseases.
Taps should always be close by in the FDC environment. When taps are not available for hand
washing use alcohol based wipes to wipe children’s hands. Always follow up with proper hand
washing as soon as practicable.
After each use of a potty chair:

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Wear disposable gloves
Empty potty into toilet
Wash potty and surrounds with warm soapy water using a cloth or brush that is only used
specifically for this purpose
Do not rinse or wash potty in a sink used for hand-washing
Assist children to wash their hands, wash your own hands, after any contact with faeces, urine,
vomit or any other body fluids
For children not fully toilet trained or who have diarrhoea or have urinary or faecal incontinence,
ask parents to supply a clean change of clothing
Use the following guide for toilet training:

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
Approach toileting in a relaxed way
Remind and assist children to use the toilet as needed.
Consult families on any toileting issues relating to their child.
Ask families to supply a few clean changes of clothing
Place any soiled clothes in a sealed bag for families to take home, and keep inaccessible to
children.
Assist the child to use the toilet and positively support their efforts.
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Use the following guide for toilet training (cont)

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
Respond calmly to toileting ‘accidents”
Assist the child to wash their hands and wash your own hands.
Disposal of paper towel.
References






Staying Healthy in Child Care – Preventing infectious diseases in child care – 4th edition 2005
Education and Care Services National Regulations
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
Childcare service Handbook 2011-2012 (DEEWR)
VEYLDF, EYLF, MTOP
Resources and Further Readings



Education and Care Services National Regulations
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
Related FDC Documents
N/A
Related FDC Policies/Procedures





Hygiene Policy
Infection Control Policy
Supervision Policy
Nappy change procedure
Hand washing Policy
Create date:
Reviewed:
Next Review date:
June 2006
Dec 2007, May 2010, April 2012, April 2013,
July 2015
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Toy Safety Policy
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 37.
Evidence of link to:
NQS: 2.1.3, 2.3.2, 3.1.1, 3.1.2
Evidence of link to:
ECSNR: 103, 105
Policy Statement
Toys are an important part of childhood, helping children learn and develop, as well as entertaining
them. Unfortunately, some toys can be dangerous. Poorly constructed toys or toys that are
inappropriate for a child’s age and level of development can lead to tragic results.
Rationale
Family Day Care Educators have a responsibility to provide safe, age appropriate toys that assist in
minimising accidents and supports children’s learning, growing independence, confidence, selfesteem, creativity and imagination.
Strategies and Practices
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Read labelling on new toys. ‘Not suitable for children under three’ means that there are small
parts which could be swallowed; it is not an indication of skill level or intelligence.
Follow the instructions for proper assembly, use and supervision
Check toys regularly for loose parts, which may cause choking dangers. Anything small enough to
fit into a 35mm film canister can choke a child under three years of age.
Check that paints and lacquers are non-toxic. Look for a label on painted toys specifying that the
paints are non-toxic
Check for sharp edges, rough surfaces or brittle plastics as they can cause cuts and splinters.
Check that there are no gaps or holes, which could trap a child’s fingers.
Check for ventilation before buying masks, helmets and tents.
Pull strings on toys must be no longer than 22cm. Strings longer than this can tangle and form a
loop or noose, and can be a strangulation hazard
Ensure that ride-on toys are appropriate to the age of the child and are stable.
Toy bikes should have effective brakes that can be applied by the rider and must be regularly
checked and maintained.
Children must wear helmets and pads when riding 2 wheeler bikes, skateboards, scooters, roller
skates/blades. (see bicycles and wheeled toys section of Resource Manual Chapter 4, OH&S)
Projectile toys can be very dangerous, also be wary of toys that make loud noises, as they can be
harmful to hearing.
Be aware that it is safer to use toy crates without lids or with lightweight removable lids rather
than toy boxes, only use toy boxes that are designed not to close on top of children and ensure
there are ventilation holes in case a child crawls inside and the lid closes. Make sure the toy box
lid has rubber stoppers so that small fingers can not be crushed, and to help provide ventilation.
Ensure toy cleanliness, schedule toy washing, toy rotation to allow for washing.
Dispose of plastic bags and film used in packaging carefully to prevent children putting them into
their mouth or over their head or face
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Strategies and Practices
 Encourage children to pack away their toys after use. Children and adults can fall over toys left
lying around the house
 Never give un-inflated balloons to small children and remove burst balloons from their play area
as they can cause choking
 Rocking toys must be isolated from infants who are crawling to protect children from crushing
hazards.
Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and as required
References




ACCC – Safe Toys for kids www.accc.gov.au (click on publications)
RCH Safety Centre – Toy Safety for Pre-School children check dates
Consumer Affairs Victoria – Toy Safety Checklist check dates
EYLF
Resources and Further Readings





Education and Care Services National Regulations
Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010
ACECQA National; Quality Framework Resource Kit www.acecqa.gov.au
Childcare service Handbook 2011-2012 (DEEWR)
VEYLDF, EYLF, MTOP
Related Documents
 Bicycle and Wheeled Toys guidelines (Polices & Procedures Manual)
Related FDC Policies/Procedures
 Home Safety Checklist
 Home Visit Record
Create date:
Reviewed:
Next Review date:
2010
April 2012, Jan 2015
Jan 2016
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Oral Hygiene Policy
Policy/Procedure Number:
B 38.
Evidence of link to:
NQS: 2.1,2.1.1,2.1.3, 2.2.1
Policy Statement
Oral health is essential for the overall health and wellbeing of children. Oral diseases can negatively
affect individuals through pain, discomfort, and impacts on general health and quality of life. The
main oral health condition experienced by children is tooth decay. Tooth decay is Australia’s most
prevalent health problem despite being almost entirely preventable.
Rationale
To promote good dental health behaviour, to help reduce the prevalence of dental caries (tooth
decay) in children and to facilitate the prevention and management of dental trauma (accidents) for
all children in Family Day Care.
Staff & Educators understand the importance of oral health and hygiene being incorporated into the
program and act as role models in supporting children and families.
FDC works in partnership with local health professionals and other organisations to support oral
health promotion.
Strategies and Practices
The Coordination Unit will

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Promote healthy eating and oral health to parents, children, staff and Educators through
learning, policies, creating a safe and healthy physical and social environment and developing
community links and partnerships
Actively seek, maintain and provide parents, staff and Educators with current oral hygiene
resources, through the enrolment process, handouts, promotions, social and electronic
media and newsletters, including translated materials if required
Support Educators and staff to access resources, tools and professional learning to enhance
their knowledge and capacity to promote healthy eating and oral health
Involve educators, families, children and staff as key partners in guiding the development,
implementation and review of this policy
Provide healthy food options at FDC service meetings, professional learning sessions and
events
Endorse the Victorian Prevention and Health Promotion Achievement Program
The Educators will
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Encourage children to make healthy food and drink choices. Offer only water as the
preferred drink option and ensure safe drinking water is available at all times. Encourage
children who are old enough to rinse their mouth out with water after each meal or to brush
their teeth
Support and supervise children when brushing their teeth
Not put Infants and young children to bed with a bottle of milk, juice or any sweet liquid
Encourage parents to provide healthy food options such as vegetables, whole fruits, cheese
and yoghurts etc in line with Nutrition Policy.
Report to families any signs they notice of tooth cavities or visible decay, gum swelling,
mouth infection or pain or discomfort experienced by children when eating or chewing
Report any incident, injury or accident pertaining to a child’s gums or teeth
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
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Discuss good dental hygiene/practices with children as part of their daily program
Model healthy eating habits when eating with the children during meal and snack times.
Provide children with adequate time to eat their food in suitable and inviting eating spaces,
which encourage social interaction
Respect the cultural diversity of families through recognising and valuing cultural and
traditional beliefs about food and oral health
Not put any substance on to a child’s dummy
Complete a parent authorization to administer medication for dental gels. Embed healthy
eating and oral health into their curriculum as recommended in the NQS, The EYLF , VEYLF
and Australian Government Guidelines
Ensure that children have the opportunity to engage in regular food related activities, such as
growing, cooking and eating foods which are culturally appropriate and varied
Families Will:
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Provide healthy food choices for their children in care
Promote good dental hygiene practices with their children
Dental Injury Action Plan
Toothache / Gum Bleeding
Families will be encouraged to seek dental assistance as soon as possible
Any injury, please refer to policy 39 First Aid Administration
Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and as required
Related FDC Documents
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National Children’s Services Regulations 2011 77-80, 168
ACECQA National Quality Standard 2: Children’s Health and Safety 2.1,2.2
COGG Karreenga Aboriginal Action Plan 2014-2017
COGG Municipal early Years Plan 2013-2017
COGG Public Health & Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017
Related FDC Policies/Procedures
First Aid Policy
Incident, Injury, Trauma and Illness Policy
Nutrition Policy
Blood Spills Procedure
Relevant Documents:
Dept of health
Get up & Grow
Create date:
July 2013
Reviewed:
Jan 2015
Next Review date: July 2015
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
First Aid Administration Policy
Policy/Procedure Number:
B39.
Evidence of link to:
NQS: 169
Evidence of link to:
ECSNR: 87, 89, 136, 137(1)(e), 168(2)(a), 245
Policy Statement
The City of Greater Geelong Family Day Care is committed to providing a safe and healthy
environment for all children, educators and staff using the service
Rationale
To ensure all Educators and Coordination Unit staff know their responsibilities and follow correct
procedures to administer first aid in an emergency
Strategies and Practices
Coordination Unit will:
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Monitor the implementation, compliance, complaints and incidents in relation to this policy
Ensure that all Educator approved first aid qualifications, anaphylaxis management training
and emergency Asthma management training are current, recorded on Harmony and
scanned to Dataworks
Ensure staff maintain current approved first aid qualifications, anaphylaxis management
training and emergency Asthma management training. Copies of certificates are to be stored
on staff files
Monitor the contents of all first aid kits at Educator annual home safety check
Ensure that an up to date first aid kit is taken on all Family Day Care planned events and
excursions
Keep up to date with any changes in the procedures for the administration of first aid
Ensure a risk assessment is conducted prior to an excursion to identify risks to health, safety
or wellbeing and specify how these risks will be managed and minimised
Ensure there is an induction process for all new staff that includes providing information on
Ariston House First Aiders, the location of first aid kits and specific first aid requirements at
Ariston
Ensure all staff are aware of their responsibilities in the event of an emergency
Adhere to the Incident, Injury, Trauma and Illness Policy in all accident situations
If required ensure a FDC Coordination Unit staff member goes to support Educator at scene
of accident
If necessary organise alternate care or collection by parents at the Educator’s service
Report accident/incidents to appropriate authorities as soon as possible, where medical or
emergency attention was sought or should have been sought for a child
Assess submitted Notice of Incident, Injury and Trauma Report of Children in Care.
Investigate the incident if necessary, note corrective action taken, sign & date and
provide a copy to the Educator
If any child requires medical attention for an incident, injury, trauma or illness, DEECD is
required to be notified by the FDC Co-ordination unit within 24 hrs of the incident, injury,
trauma or illness occurring. (see ‘How to report a serious incident’ procedure)
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Educators will:
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Adhere to the Incident, Injury, Trauma and Illness Policy in all accident situations
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Notify serious incidents on the same business day of the incident and submit the
completed written report to the Coordination Unit within 24 hours of the incident
occurring
Complete a Notice of Incident, Injury and Trauma Report of Children in Care for all
incidents
Ensure a fully stocked, in date and labelled first aid kit is easily recognisable and
accessible both at the service and on outings
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In the case of a minor accident the Educator will:
 Assess the injury
 Attend to the injured person and apply first aid as required
 Ensure that disposable gloves are worn when dealing with blood or bodily fluids and
follow the FDC management of exposure to blood and bodily fluids protocol for
cleaning up and disposal
 Verbally report any accident to the Coordination Unit and parent / guardian or other
responsible person as soon as practicable
 Record the incident and treatment given on the FDC Notice of Incident, Injury and
Trauma Report of Children in Care. Ensure parents complete and sign the parent /
guardian response section and forward to the Coordination Unit within 24 hours of
the incident occurring
In the case of a major accident the Educator will;
 Assess the injury and decide whether the child needs to be attended to by a doctor
or whether an ambulance should be called.
 If the child’s injury is serious the first priority is to get immediate medical attention.
Contact parents immediately, if not possible, there should be no delay in organising
medical attention. Keep trying to contact parents or emergency contact
 Contact the Coordination unit to advise of accident as soon as possible and request
assistance if required.
 Attend to the injured person and apply first aid as required
 Ensure that disposable gloves are worn when dealing with blood or bodily fluids and
follow the FDC management of exposure to blood and bodily fluids protocol for
cleaning up and disposal
 Stay with the child until suitable help arrives, or further treatment taken
 Try to make the child comfortable and reassure them
 If an ambulance is called and the child is taken to hospital a staff member/educators
will accompany the child if possible
 Record the incident and treatment given on the FDC Notice of Incident, Injury and
Trauma Report of Children in Care. Ensure parents complete and sign the parent /
guardian response section and forward to the Coordination Unit within 24 hours of
the incident occurring
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015
Family Day Care
Families Will:
 Provide written consent (via the enrolment form) for the Educator to administer aid and call
an ambulance, if required
 Provide the contact details of their preferred Medical Practitioner, Medicare number and
expiry date and if applicable their Ambulance subscription number
 Be contactable, either directly or through emergency contacts listed on the child’s enrolment
record, in the event of an incident requiring the administration of first aid.
 Complete and sign the parent / guardian response section of the Notice of Incident, Injury
and Trauma report in the event of an accident / incident
Day-to-Day Service Management of Health and Safety Policies
Reviewed at monthly team meetings and as required
References
COGG Workplace Fist Aid management Procedure
Worksafe Compliance Code: first Aid in the Workplace
Department of Education and Early Childhood Development - First Aid, Anaphylaxis and Asthma
Management http://www.education.vic.gov.au/childhood/providers/health/pages/anaphylaxis.aspx
Resources and Further Readings
Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA)
Education and Care Services National Regulations 2011: 87, 89, 136, 137, 245
Education and Care Services National Law 2010: Section 169
Related FDC Documents
Protocol for management of exposure to blood and bodily fluids
Notice of Incident, Injury and Trauma Report of Children in Care
Education and Care Enrolment Form
Regular and Non-Regular Excursion Forms
Home Safety Checklist
Related FDC Policies/Procedures
First Aid Policy
Incident, Injury, Trauma and Illness Policy
Dealing with Medical Conditions Policy
Medication Policy
Asthma Policy
Anaphylaxis Policy
Excursion Policy
Dealing with Medical Conditions
Create date
Reviewed:
Next Review date
Dec 2013
January 2015
January 2016
Policies & Procedures Manual - January 2015