Adverse Weather Policy

(EYFS Updated – September 2025)

Policy Statement: At Just Little Ones Childminding, the safety, health, and well-being of children in our care are paramount, especially during adverse weather conditions. This policy aligns with the revised Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS, September 2025), detailing our procedures to ensure children, staff, and visitors remain safe and secure during adverse weather.

Definition of Adverse Weather:

  • Adverse weather includes severe weather conditions that may risk the safety or health of children and staff, such as storms, snow, flooding, extreme heat, cold temperatures, and hazardous air quality.

Monitoring Weather Conditions:

  • Regular monitoring of reliable weather sources to anticipate and proactively respond to potential adverse conditions.
  • Staff are informed and trained to interpret weather warnings and forecasts to support timely decision-making.

Decision Making:

  • Decisions about operating the childminding setting during adverse weather will be taken by the childminder or designated responsible staff member.
  • Decisions prioritize children’s safety, emotional well-being, and health considerations, aligning with EYFS 2025 safeguarding requirements.

Closure of the Childminding Setting:

  • The setting will close if weather conditions pose significant safety or health risks to children and staff.
  • Immediate notification to parents/guardians through approved communication channels (phone calls, texts, emails, digital platforms).

Delayed Opening:

  • The setting may operate a delayed opening if weather conditions are anticipated to improve, ensuring safer travel and attendance for families and staff.
  • Clear, timely communication will be made to parents/guardians regarding delayed opening details.

Early Closure:

  • Early closure may be necessary if conditions deteriorate during operational hours to guarantee safe travel home for children and staff.
  • Parents/guardians will be promptly informed about early closures, expected collection times, and safety considerations.

Child Pickup and Transportation:

  • Parents/guardians are advised to assess travel safety conditions and use personal discretion for travel decisions during adverse weather.
  • If parents face challenges in picking up their child, the setting will ensure alternative safe arrangements are promptly put in place.

Safe Shelter and Essential Provisions:

  • In situations where children must remain onsite during adverse weather, adequate shelter, food, water, and necessary comfort items will be available.
  • EYFS 2025 guidelines for maintaining children’s health, comfort, and emotional security during prolonged stays will be strictly followed.

Communication:

  • Efficient, clear, and timely communication will be maintained throughout any adverse weather scenario, ensuring that emergency contact information is accurate and updated regularly.

Review and Monitoring:

  • Regular evaluation of this policy to incorporate legislative changes, updates to EYFS guidelines, or feedback from stakeholders.
  • Staff training and awareness regarding updated procedures, EYFS expectations, and best practices for adverse weather scenarios will be ongoing.

Alignment with EYFS 2025 Changes:

  • This policy reflects the EYFS September 2025 emphasis on robust safeguarding, health considerations, emotional security, and proactive risk management during adverse weather conditions.

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