Loss & Damage to Personal Property Policy

(Updated EYFS September 2025)

Policy Statement: At Just Little Ones Childminding, we are committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for all children in our care. This Loss & Damage to Personal Property Policy outlines our approach to managing situations involving loss or damage to personal property brought by children or staff members to the childminding setting, as well as instances where children cause damage to the childminder’s property.

Personal Property Responsibility:

  • Children and staff members may bring personal items to the childminding setting, such as toys, clothing, and electronic devices.
  • While we strive to create a secure environment, the childminding setting cannot take responsibility for loss, damage, or theft of personal property.

Personal Property Guidelines:

  • Parents or legal guardians will be informed that personal items brought to the childminding setting should be clearly labelled with the child’s name.
  • Items that are potentially valuable, fragile, or irreplaceable should be considered carefully before being brought to the setting.

Childminding Setting’s Responsibility:

  • Childminders and staff members will encourage children to keep their personal items in designated areas.
  • Staff members will promote responsible behaviour and respectful treatment of personal property among children.

Communication with Parents:

  • Parents or legal guardians will be informed about the childminding setting’s policy regarding personal property in advance.
  • Parents will be encouraged to communicate directly with their child about the importance of taking care of their belongings.

Reporting Loss or Damage:

  • If loss or damage to personal property occurs within the childminding setting, parents or legal guardians will be notified promptly.
  • Childminders will document the incident, including the circumstances and any actions taken.

Damage to Childminder’s Property:

  • In cases where a child causes damage to the childminder’s property (e.g., breaking a TV), parents or legal guardians will be notified immediately.
  • The childminding setting reserves the right to request reimbursement for repair or replacement costs incurred due to the damage caused by the child.

Replacement Responsibility:

  • The childminding setting will not be liable for replacing lost, damaged, or stolen personal items.
  • Parents or legal guardians will be responsible for replacing or repairing any lost or damaged personal property.

Education and Prevention:

  • Children will be educated about the importance of keeping personal items safe and looking after their belongings.
  • Staff members will encourage children to place personal items in secure areas during activities.

Conflict Resolution:

  • In case of disputes or disagreements related to loss or damage to personal property, including damage to the childminder’s property, the childminder will work collaboratively with parents or legal guardians to find a resolution.

Alignment with EYFS 2025 Changes:

  • This policy has been reviewed and updated to align with EYFS 2025 changes, ensuring practices that support the holistic well-being and development of children, promoting responsibility, respect, and clear communication.

Review and Monitoring:

  • This policy will be reviewed annually or more frequently if required to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with any changes in legislation or local guidelines.
  • Feedback from parents, children, and staff will be welcomed to continuously improve our loss and damage policy.

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