Working with families

Parents need to be confident that you know how to keep their child safe and if you haven’t done this, it is a good idea to share some of your policies and procedures with them. Parents should know what to expect from your service before they sign a contract.

For example:

• Child protection – families need to know that you have a duty of care and will seek professional help and advice if you have any concerns.

• Emergency procedures – parents should know what will happen if there is an emergency and what will happen to their child, for example if you have to take a family member to hospital. Many childminders have a childminder buddy who knows the children and who will be able to look after them in an emergency.