National Minimum Standards for Regulated Childcare for children up to the age of 12 years: statutory guidance - Audience and overview
Standard of care child minding and day care providers must meet to look after children under 12.
In this page
Standard 2: The Contract
Child’s voice
Everyone agrees on how I’ll be cared for including me.
Well-being outcome
Children’s needs are met through clear, reliable care arrangements that enable stable routines and trusting relationships.
The registered person is responsible for ensuring that:
2.1 A written contract is agreed with parents, setting out the expectations of both parties about the care of the child, activities provided and business arrangements.
2.2 The written contract must include the terms and conditions, including information about:
- arrival and collection
- sickness
- administration of medication
- holidays
- dietary needs
- emergency procedures
- policy on behaviour management and sanctions
- financial matters and fees (if any)
- equal opportunities policy
- complaints
To assist providers
The principal regulatory requirements underpinning this standard are outlined below, followed by relevant guidance. Providers should note that neither list is exhaustive, and that providers must have regard to all standards relevant to their service and the circumstances concerned.
Related regulations
- Regulation 9: Registered person (general requirements).
- Regulation 20: Safeguarding and promotion of welfare.
- Regulation 21: Food provided for children.
- Regulation 22: Arrangements for the protection of children.
- Regulation 23: Behaviour management, discipline and restraint.
- Regulation 24: Health needs of children.
- Regulation 26: Use and storage of medicines.
- Regulation 27: Staffing.
- Regulation 30: Keeping of records:
- Regulation 31: Provision of information:
- Regulation 32: Complaints.
Further guidance and support
CWLWM is a consortium of five childcare and playwork partners. It offers bilingual templates, information and downloadable resources to help with operating early years childcare or playwork settings.