Physical Contact Policy

(Updated for EYFS 2025)

Policy Statement: At Just Little Ones Childminding, we recognise the importance of positive and appropriate physical contact in nurturing children’s emotional well-being and supporting secure attachments. Physical contact can provide comfort, reassurance, and encouragement when used in a respectful and supportive manner. This policy outlines our approach to ensuring all physical interactions are appropriate, child-led, and aligned with EYFS 2025 guidance.

Purpose of Physical Contact:

  • Physical contact is used to offer comfort, reassurance, and security to children in our care.
  • It aims to foster emotional connections, self-confidence, and trust while respecting individual boundaries.
  • We promote a safe and supportive environment where children feel valued and respected.

Types of Physical Contact:

  • Appropriate and positive physical contact includes: 
    • Hugs (when initiated or welcomed by the child)
    • Hand-holding (for reassurance or safety reasons)
    • High-fives, pats on the back, or encouraging gestures
    • Cuddles or lap sitting (only if initiated by the child and deemed appropriate)
  • Physical contact is always child-led, ensuring that children feel safe and in control of their personal space.

Consent and Comfort Level:

  • Children’s preferences regarding physical contact will be respected at all times.
  • Children have the right to decline any form of physical contact without judgment or pressure.
  • Childminders will recognise and respect verbal and non-verbal cues indicating a child’s comfort level.

Cultural Sensitivity:

  • Childminders will be culturally aware and sensitive to variations in physical contact practices across different families, communities, and religious backgrounds.
  • We will discuss cultural expectations with parents to ensure alignment with family values.

Personal Boundaries and Safeguarding:

  • Children will be taught about personal boundaries and respecting others’ personal space.
  • Childminders will model respectful behaviour by seeking consent before initiating physical contact.
  • Any inappropriate physical contact will be addressed, recorded, and reported to the appropriate safeguarding authority.

Staff Training and Awareness:

  • Childminders and staff will receive training on appropriate physical contact and recognising signs of discomfort in children.
  • Training will include: 
    • Appropriate and inappropriate touch
    • Recognising and responding to children’s boundaries
    • Dealing with disclosures or concerns sensitively

Gentle Discipline Approach:

  • Physical contact must never be used as a form of punishment, restraint, or control.
  • We use positive behaviour management strategies that encourage self-regulation and respect.

Communication with Parents:

  • Parents will be informed about our approach to physical contact and given opportunities to share their preferences or concerns.
  • We will document any specific preferences, restrictions, or cultural considerations expressed by parents.

Reporting and Documentation:

  • Any concerns, disclosures, or uncomfortable physical interactions will be recorded and reported to parents or safeguarding officers where necessary.
  • Childminders will document any instances where physical contact is refused or appears to cause distress, ensuring we adapt our approach accordingly.

Alignment with EYFS 2025 Changes:

  • The EYFS 2025 framework emphasises the importance of secure attachments and emotional well-being, particularly in building confidence and resilience.
  • This policy aligns with EYFS 2025 by: 
    • Prioritising child-led interactions, ensuring physical contact is respectful, supportive, and appropriate.
    • Encouraging emotional security and self-regulation, in line with the Personal, Social, and Emotional Development (PSED) framework.
    • Teaching children about boundaries and consent, reinforcing the principles of respect and autonomy.
  • The updated EYFS guidance highlights the importance of positive relationships between caregivers and children, supporting secure emotional development through appropriate contact.

Review and Monitoring:

  • This policy will be reviewed annually or more frequently if required, ensuring it remains compliant with EYFS 2025 and other safeguarding regulations.
  • Feedback from parents, staff, and external agencies will be welcomed to continuously improve our physical contact policy.

Signed: Jemma & Dale Ferriday
Date: August 2025 
Review Date: April 2027