Aussie Childcare Network Forum

you are employed as an educator in an early learning center. it is 5:15 pm Friday afternoon and the center closes at 6:00. there are 8 children 3-6 years remaining in care. the other educators tell you that she needs to go home at 5:30 as she has to be at an appointment at 6:00 pm. she asks you not tell anyone as she does not want to be in trouble.
how would you respond ethically to this situation?

- tell her she is breaking the law as she is not complying with staff- children ratios
- report it to the supervisor in charge
- document the conversation

is this correct?

thank you

I wouldn't think so as ratio allows 1-10 for that age group so she wouldn't be breaking the law. In my centre though for safety reasons there needs to be 2 educators on the open and closing shift at all times so it might come down to the policies and procedures of the centre. I would inform the other educator that i wasn't comfortable working on my own and that due to policies and procedures she will have to stay, but offer her a chance to make a phone call and try and change the appointment time. This shows you're understanding and helful. I'd only inform the supervisor if she didn't take what you've said on board and left anyway.

anyone?

Thanks!