Preventing a child becoming lost or unaccounted for
Little Leaps is committed to the safety and security of all children in its care. Children are supervised at all times, both indoors and outdoors, and regular headcounts are carried out so children remain accounted for.
Parents or guardians must sign children in on arrival and sign them out at departure using the attendance register. Any change to the person collecting a child must be communicated clearly in advance.
Outdoor activities are carefully planned and closely supervised, with clear boundaries and regular visual checks. During outings and group activities, a buddy system may be encouraged, with older children paired with younger children where appropriate to support safety and supervision.
Identification badges or wristbands may be used during outings where appropriate, displaying the child's name and Little Leaps contact information.
Immediate response if a child is suspected lost
If a child is suspected to be lost, an immediate search of the premises begins. The setting coordinates the search, communicates with the team throughout and follows the lost-child procedure.
Parents or legal guardians are informed immediately if the child cannot be located within a reasonable timeframe. Clear details are shared about the situation and the actions being taken.
If the child remains unaccounted for, the local authorities are informed promptly.
Staff training, review and monitoring
All staff receive regular training on the Lost Child Policy procedures and responses. Staff are kept informed about the setting layout, emergency contacts and safety procedures so they know how to respond if a child is suspected to be lost.
After any incident, Little Leaps carries out a thorough review to identify areas for improvement. Policies and procedures are updated based on what is learned.
The policy is reviewed annually, or more frequently if required, to ensure it remains effective and compliant with EYFS 2026 requirements and local guidance. Feedback from staff, parents and children is welcomed to support continuous improvement.