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.
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Standard 9: Behaviour
Child’s voice: I am treated with respect by people who care for me, and I learn how to do the same for others.
Well-being outcome: Children develop emotional regulation, empathy and positive social interactions through supportive, rights-based guidance.
The registered person is responsible for ensuring that:
9.1 Adults caring for children in the provision are appropriately trained and able to manage a wide range of children’s behaviour in a way that promotes the children’s welfare and development and respects their rights under the UNCRC (for example, Article 19) and recognises that the reasons for ‘bad’ behaviour may be complex.
9.2 A written behaviour management policy is drawn up and implemented which complies with the Regulations and states the methods used to manage children’s behaviour. This is discussed with parents and fully understood and followed by staff. The policy is kept under active review and CIW is notified of any revision within 28 days of it being made.
9.3 It is clear who within the setting has responsibility for behaviour management issues. That person has the skills to support any other staff and is able to access expert advice if usual methods are not effective with a particular child.
9.4 Management of behaviour is consistent and developmentally appropriate, respecting individual children’s level of understanding and maturity.
9.5 A positive approach to managing behaviour is used, with adults modelling positive behaviour, providing praise and encouragement, and fostering good relationships between adults and children. Inappropriate behaviour, including bullying, is managed, addressed and discouraged.
9.6 Adults providing care or play opportunities are alert to instances of bullying and encourage children to report any concerns.
9.7 Physical punishments, such as shaking or smacking a child or the threat of them, are never used.
9.8 Adults do not use any form of physical intervention, e.g., holding or restraint, unless it is necessary to prevent personal injury to the child, other children or an adult, or serious damage to property. Any incident is recorded, and the parent informed of the incident on the day. See Reducing restrictive practices framework.
9.9 Children are never humiliated, shouted at, intimidated, or shamed.
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 standards relevant to their service and the circumstances concerned.