Wearable Technology Policy (Aligned with EYFS September 2025 Reforms)
Policy Statement:
At Just Little Ones childminding, the safety, privacy, and safeguarding of the children in our care is our highest priority. This Wearable Technology Policy outlines our procedures for managing and restricting the use of wearable technology that may record or transmit audio, video, or location data within the setting.
Purpose:
This policy aims to ensure that wearable technology does not compromise children’s privacy, breach data protection laws, or interfere with safeguarding responsibilities.
Definition of Wearable Technology:
Wearable technology includes, but is not limited to:
• Smart watches with cameras, microphones, or messaging capabilities
• Smart glasses with recording or live streaming functionality
• Fitness bands that can transmit data
• Any body-worn device capable of capturing images, video, sound, or GPS location
General Rules:
• Children are not permitted to wear or bring wearable technology into the childminding setting unless explicitly agreed in advance for medical or SEND purposes.
• Staff and visitors must not wear or use wearable technology capable of recording or transmitting data while on the premises unless it is essential and authorised (e.g., for medical alerts).
• Any exceptions must be risk assessed and documented.
Staff Responsibilities:
• Staff must not use wearable technology during working hours unless it is part of an agreed reasonable adjustment or essential for health reasons (e.g., diabetes monitors).
• Any smart devices must be disabled from recording or connecting to the internet while on the premises.
• Staff are expected to store personal smartwatches or wearable devices with similar functions in secure staff-only areas if they cannot be used in compliance with this policy.
Parental and Visitor Guidance:
• Parents and visitors will be asked to remove or disable wearable technology that has recording capabilities when entering the childminding setting.
• Signs may be displayed to remind visitors of the setting’s stance on wearable technology and privacy protection.
SEND and Medical Considerations:
• In cases where a child or adult needs to wear a specific device for medical or additional support needs (e.g., glucose monitors, communication aids), this must be discussed, risk assessed, and documented with parental/carer input.
• Data from such devices will be handled securely and sensitively, following GDPR guidelines.
Data Protection and Safeguarding:
• No data (images, videos, audio, or personal information) should be collected or transmitted via wearable devices within the childminding setting without explicit written parental consent and appropriate security controls.
• Any breach of this policy may result in disciplinary action and will be treated as a safeguarding matter if children’s safety or privacy is compromised.
Monitoring and Enforcement:
• Staff are responsible for self-monitoring their compliance and supporting others in adhering to this policy.
• Any unauthorised use of wearable technology must be reported to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) immediately.
Alignment with EYFS 2025 Changes:
This policy supports the safeguarding emphasis of the updated EYFS 2025 by prioritising children’s privacy, safety, and dignity in line with broader data protection and safeguarding practices. It aligns with the framework’s ongoing commitment to prevent unsafe practices and enhance child protection measures within early years settings.
Review and Monitoring:
• This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislative guidance, technology use, or safeguarding standards change.
• Feedback from staff, parents, and external safeguarding bodies is welcomed to continually improve our technology and privacy protocols.
Signed: Jemma Ferriday
Date: September 2027
Update Due: Sept 2027