K2H26 How to supervise children safety

K2H26 – How to supervise children safety, modifying your approach according to age, needs and abilities.  The balances between safety and risk, and challenge and protection for children.

How do I supervise a child without overprotecting them?

Firstly, I would assess the risk and make a safety judgement in the activity they are performing according to their age.  I would ensure that the activity or equipment is appropriate for their age or set age related tasks.

I would ensure all equipment or games are age related and that all equipment has been regularly checked for any safety issues i.e. general wear and tear.

I would ensure that all children have a safe environment, which will at the same time encourage them to become more independent e.g. storing equipment pens, scissors etc in cupboards which are assessable to children.

I would plan ahead thinking of any obstacles which may cause harm ensuring that the children have appropriate supervision e.g. ensuring that area is clear of any obstruction.

I would ensure that the children also have a clear understanding of the school’s appropriate behaviour and boundaries and what effect these will have if they are not adhered to i.e. consequences of their own actions.  Also they must be encouraged to follow the daily routines of the setting.

I would ensure that all children are encouraged to problem solve on their own before intervening, letting them ask for help and coming down to their level.

I would make sure that there is correct adult to children supervision and that appropriate supervision is in place in case of any unseen circumstances.

I would ensure that all members of staff are located in appropriate areas within the setting and that they have a good visibility of all the children especially if they are working closely with an individual child or a small group.

This post is part of the 202 Keep Children Safe • NVQ Level 2 section, which forms the Childcare Learning And Development website.