Record of Observation - Child Abuse

Forum for students doing their Diploma in Childcare.
Forum rules
IMPORTANT: Student's support in our forum will now be a part of our Premium Subscription service. This means students who have purchased a Premium Subscription will now be offered complimentary support in our Student Forums by us. This will only be available to students who have purchased a Premium Subscription. Click here to subscribe.
Post Reply
jacquiestrange
Newbie
Posts: 1
Joined: Tue Jan 31, 2017 2:49 pm

Record of Observation - Child Abuse

Post by jacquiestrange » Tue Jan 31, 2017 3:44 pm

Where can I find this information for this question? TIA

List five (5) pieces of important information you should include on a record of observation?


Miss Sam
Newbie
Posts: 10
Joined: Tue Feb 23, 2016 6:09 pm

Re: Record of Observation - Child Abuse

Post by Miss Sam » Sat Feb 25, 2017 11:36 am

Hi Jacquie
Keeping children safe from harm has it's own section in the regulations.

Also consider that a record of observation will be admissible in a court of law, so you need to be sure that you have all the details correct.
Consider dates, times, witnesses names, evidence (like photos), who was told, conversation or comments made by child (if old enough to speak), who you spoke to when you reported this (it is compulsory to report any cases of suspected child abuse)- name- time- date- what was said etc. Think of it as an observation- running record- that explains everything.
You can not make assumptions or ask children leading questions; You must report your concerns immediately to the centres manager and the relevant authority.

I have also (in the past) contacted the guardian (parent/grandparent etc) and told them that we have noticed (mark, bruising etc) and asked them if they know where it may have come from. Always look your children (in your care) over from head to foot at drop off time. While the parent is there, point out or ask about noticeable scratches, bruises, mosquito bites, rashes, etc
You would be surprised how many parents don't notice some things in their rush in the mornings and often they will ask you what happened through the day, even though the children already had these 'marks' before their day in your childcare setting.

Hope this helps.
Cheers

Post Reply