A Safe Child Care Program

A safe child care program is one organized with the child’s care in mind. This can range from child-proofing electrical outlets, to putting a gate across stairways. A safe child care environment also has clear spaces where children can move and play away from potentially dangerous appliances or poisonous substances.

Keeping children safe from harm is an important job. Children must be kept safe from burns, objects falling on them, poisons, drowning, electrical shock, choking, entrapment, falls, weapons, loud noises, tripping, pinches, punctures, crushing injuries, and cuts. A safe child care environment is one that is organized with the children’s care and development in mind. It has clear spaces where children can move and play away from potentially dangerous appliances, equipment, materials, falling hazards or hazardous substances. The more carefully you plan the environment, the fewer times adults have to interfere with the children’s self-initiated activity.

Planning includes:
• Arranging furniture so children are not likely to trip over or run into it.
• Storing toys and books within children’s easy reach to eliminate climbing to reach them.
• Having child-sized tables and chairs so the children can use them safely.
• Securing all computers, hanging planters, storage units and heavy items on open shelving.
• Keeping storage, furniture, and shelving from exit pathways to keep exits free.
• Keeping storage items less than 18 inches from the ceiling.
• Removing broken equipment and keeping all equipment in good repair

Related Training:
Safe and Healthy Environment
Designing an Environment to Support Positive Early Learning - 4 hours
A Basic Approach to a Clean and Healthy Environment - 2 hours
Planning Activities Based on Children’s Needs  - 2 hours