Infection Control & Hygiene Policy

(Updated EYFS September 2025)

Policy Statement: At Just Little Ones Childminding we are committed to providing a safe, healthy, and hygienic environment, aligning fully with the EYFS 2025 standards. This policy outlines our approach to preventing infection spread and maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.

Hand Hygiene:

  • Staff, children, and visitors will practice regular and effective hand hygiene.
  • Handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is mandatory:
    • Before and after handling food
    • After using the toilet or changing nappies
    • After coughing, sneezing, or blowing the nose
    • After touching potentially contaminated surfaces

Respiratory Hygiene:

  • Children and staff will be educated about respiratory hygiene, emphasizing covering the mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing.
  • Tissues and no-touch bins will be available throughout the setting.

Cleaning and Sanitisation:

  • Regular cleaning and sanitisation will occur using approved disinfectants.
  • High-touch surfaces, toys, and equipment will be sanitized multiple times daily.

Illness Management:

  • Children exhibiting symptoms of illness will be temporarily excluded from the setting.
  • Local health authority guidelines on illness management will be strictly followed.

Isolation Area:

  • A dedicated isolation area will be provided for sick children awaiting collection by parents or authorised contacts.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

  • Staff will use appropriate PPE such as disposable gloves, aprons, and face masks when required.
  • PPE will be mandatory during activities involving potential contact with bodily fluids or contaminated materials.

Food Hygiene:

  • Strict food preparation and handling protocols will be adhered to, preventing contamination.
  • Staff will practice rigorous hand hygiene before and after food handling.
  • Food storage and cooking will maintain safe temperature standards.

Communication with Parents:

  • Parents or legal guardians will be promptly informed of illness outbreaks or contagious conditions in the setting.
  • Parents must notify the childminder if their child becomes ill and adhere to the return criteria following illness.

Health Records:

  • Up-to-date health records, including vaccination documentation, will be maintained confidentially and securely.

Alignment with EYFS 2025 Changes:

  • This policy reflects the EYFS 2025 emphasis on robust infection prevention measures and enhanced hygiene practices.
  • Regular staff training will ensure alignment with new EYFS 2025 health and safety standards.

Review and Monitoring:

  • This policy will be reviewed annually, or more frequently as required, to ensure ongoing effectiveness and compliance.
  • Feedback from staff, parents, and external agencies will be actively encouraged for continuous improvement.

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