Independent Arrival / Departure & Travel Policy

(Updated EYFS September 2025)

Policy Statement: At [Insert your childminding business name], we prioritise the safety and security of all children in our care. This policy outlines our approach to managing independent arrivals, departures, and travel arrangements to and from the childminding setting.

Independent Arrival and Departure:

  • Parents or legal guardians must provide details of individuals authorised to drop off or collect their child from the setting.
  • Only authorised individuals listed on the child’s enrolment form will be permitted to pick up the child.

Authorized Individuals:

  • A list of authorized individuals, including their names, contact information, and relationship to the child, must be provided by parents or legal guardians.
  • Any updates or changes to the list of authorised individuals must be communicated in writing to the childminder.

Identification:

  • Authorized individuals must present valid photo identification (e.g., driver’s license or ID card) when picking up a child.
  • The childminder will verify the identity before releasing the child.

Safe Arrival and Departure Procedures:

  • Parents or legal guardians are required to sign their child in and out upon arrival and departure.
  • Accurate records of arrival and departure times will be maintained for each child.

Emergency Contact Information:

  • Up-to-date emergency contact details, including phone numbers and alternative contacts, must be provided by parents or legal guardians.
  • This information will be used in emergencies or delays.

Notification of Delays:

  • Parents or legal guardians must notify the childminder if they anticipate being delayed in collecting their child.
  • The childminder will wait a reasonable amount of time for the parent or authorised individual to arrive.

Travel Arrangements:

  • Written consent must be obtained from parents or legal guardians if the setting is responsible for transporting children to or from external activities.
  • Detailed travel arrangements, including destination and mode of transportation, will be communicated to parents in advance.

Car Seat Safety:

  • Appropriate car seats, based on the child’s age, weight, and height, will be used for all transportation.
  • All car seats will be securely installed and comply with safety standards.

Communication:

  • Parents or legal guardians will be promptly informed of any changes to arrival, departure, or travel arrangements.
  • Open communication with parents will be maintained to ensure the child’s safety and parents’ peace of mind.

Alignment with EYFS 2025 Changes:

  • This policy reflects EYFS 2025 standards, prioritising secure procedures, transparent communication, and the safeguarding of children during independent arrivals, departures, and travel arrangements.

Review and Monitoring:

  • This policy will be reviewed annually, or more frequently if required, to ensure effectiveness and compliance with changes in legislation or local guidelines.
  • Feedback from staff, parents, and external agencies will be encouraged to continuously improve this policy.

Signed: Jemma Ferriday
Date: Sept 26
Review Due: Sept 27