Safer Eating

Safe Eating

Keeping children safe while they eat is an important part of our care and safeguarding arrangements.

Children are actively supervised at all meal and snack times, with adults positioned so that they can see, hear and respond quickly if a child needs help. Wherever possible, adults will face children while they are eating so that they can notice signs of choking, an unexpected allergic reaction or children attempting to share food.

We make sure that staff are aware of any allergies, intolerances, dietary requirements or individual health needs and that this information is kept up to date. At every meal or snack time, staff are clear about who is responsible for checking that the food and drink provided is suitable for each child.

Food is prepared and served appropriately, taking account of children’s age and individual developmental needs, to help reduce the risk of choking. Younger children are seated safely and unnecessary distractions are kept to a minimum while they are eating.

A member of staff with a current Paediatric First Aid qualification is present while our youngest children are eating. If a choking incident requires staff intervention, this will be recorded and parents or carers will be informed.

Our simple approach is:

See them. Hear them. Face them. Know their needs.