Child Safeguarding Policy

Policy Statement

At Twinkling Stars Early Childhood Centre, the Safeguarding Policy outlines our commitment to promoting the well-being and safety of everyone associated with our Centre. Child protection is a part of safeguarding and promoting welfare. This policy sets out those actions Twinkling Stars Centre will ensure the safety and well-being of children under its care.

“Every child has the right to a secure life, permanent care and emotional and psychological stability. We will be uncompromising with whoever infringes upon the rights of children, for the protection of our children is a protection of our future.”

(HH Sheikh Muhammad)

Child Safeguarding Procedures

Maintaining Children’s Safety and Security on Premises

  • We ensure all employed staff has been checked for criminal records.
  • All children are supervised by adults.
  • Whenever children are on the premises at least two adults are present.
  • We carry out risk assessment to ensure children are not made vulnerable at any time.

Security Measures

  • The premise is monitored by CCTV at all times under the Center Manager’s supervision.
  • Systems are in place for the safe arrival and departure of children.
  • The times of the children’s arrivals and departures are recorded.
  • The arrival and departure times of adult staff, volunteers and visitors are recorded.
  • Our systems prevent children from leaving our premises unnoticed.

Child Going Missing on the Premises

  • The key person/staff promptly alerts the Centre’s Manager upon noticing a missing child.
  • The Centre’s Manager conducts a thorough search of the building.
  • Doors and gates are inspected for any security breaches.
  • If the child is not found, parents are contacted, and the missing child is reported to the Dubai Police Department.
  • The Centre’s Manager gathers information from staff about when and where the child was last seen.

Child Going Missing on the Field Trip

  • Staff on the field trip ensure children stand with their designated/key person and conduct a constant headcount.
  • A staff member searches the immediate area without going beyond.
  • The Centre’s Manager is immediately informed, and the incident is reported.
  • The Centre’s Manager contacts the Dubai Police, reports the missing child, and notifies the parent.
  • The remaining children are taken back to the Centre.

Investigation

Staff maintain calmness, ensuring other children are not anxious.

The Centre’s Manager, with the key person, speaks to the parent(s) and conducts a full investigation.

  • The key person/staff member writes an incident report detailing relevant information.
  • A conclusion is drawn about how the security breach occurred.
  • If a police investigation is necessary, staff cooperate fully, and KHDA may be involved in child protection cases.

Managing People

  • Distraught parents are dealt with by two staff members, the Centre’s Manager and the key person/Child Protection Officer.
  • Staff may require counselling and support depending on the outcome, and the manager decides on appropriate actions.
  • Staff must not discuss missing child incidents with the press without seeking advice.

Policy created by Twinkling Stars Center Manager:
Ms. Asma Azher