In your own words, and where necessary using additional research, or your own experiences or scenarios, write for each task. The word count is there as a guide and you will not be penalised if you do not meet or go over that count. References and bibliography should be provided at the end of the assignment.
Explain the following:
The key components of a healthy and safe home-based environment.
[200 words]
A healthy and safe home based environment. It is my responsibility as a professional childminder to do everything possible to keep all children safe at all times and prevent accidents.
-Ensure home safety:
Kitchen: No access for children when cooking, baby gates in place, but will have systems in place in case kitchen access is required, such as cupboard locks, electrical wires at back of sides, all equipment doors closed, kitchen bin out of the way of children’s hands.
Dining/sitting Room: Fire place guard/gate if needed, all electrical cords out of reach, secure table cloths, Clear floor space to prevent tripping, (few toys out at a time) child friendly table and chairs. Radiator guards,
Stairs: Safety gates in the correct places to prevent falls down stairs.
Bathroom: Cleaning products out of reach, spills and accidents to be cleaned, non-slip mats, always run cold water first.
Hygiene and waste disposal: high standard of hygiene is essential, Led by example, washing hands/good personal hygiene. Clean and disinfect floors, equipment and toys regularly. Use disposable gloves when dealing with faeces, urine or blood. Clean kitchen and bathrooms regularly to keep germ levels down. Anti-bacterial sprays are a must.
Have a good recycling system in place, all food waste in a separate bin, also a good idea to have a separate bin for nappies and bodily waste etc.
To ensure a healthy environment, I need to store food correctly in fridge or cupboards, wash hands etc when dealing or handling food, be aware of cross contamination.