3.2. Explain how the control measure supports the safety of: • the child/children • the babysitter

This guide will help you answer 3.2. Explain how the control measure supports the safety of: • the child/children • the babysitter.

Control measures are the steps taken to reduce or remove risks that could cause harm. In childcare and babysitting, they protect both the child and the babysitter. A control measure can be a physical action, a rule, or something in the environment that limits danger. They help manage hazards so that everyone stays safe.

Some examples of control measures include:

• Checking that toys are age appropriate
• Locking away cleaning products and medicines
• Using a safe baby sleeping position
• Agreeing on emergency contact information before the babysitting starts
• Following fire safety procedures

When used properly, each control measure gives clear benefits to safety for both the child and the babysitter.

Supporting the Safety of the Child

Children depend on adults to keep them safe. A babysitter must create an environment where risks and hazards are controlled. The following explains how control measures directly help protect a child.

Preventing accidents in the home

If furniture edges are sharp, corner protectors can be fitted. This control measure reduces the risk of cuts or bruising when a child bumps into them. By removing or blocking potential hazards in the home, the child is less likely to be injured during play or movement.

Safe storage of harmful substances

Cleaning materials, medicines, or alcohol should be kept in locked cupboards or out of reach. This prevents the child from accidentally swallowing or touching dangerous substances. Poisoning and chemical burns are avoided through simple, consistent storage habits.

Supervision levels

Supervision means keeping watch over the child, especially during risky activities. For example, when a child plays in the garden, the babysitter stays nearby to stop unsafe actions, like climbing too high. This control measure allows quick intervention before harm occurs.

Age appropriate toys

Toys should match the child’s age and stage of development. Young children should not have toys with small parts that could be swallowed. By controlling access to toys, choking hazards are prevented and play remains safe.

Fire safety planning

Knowing exactly how to exit the building if there is a fire is a control measure. For children, this keeps them calm in emergencies as the babysitter can lead them to safety without delay. Smoke alarms and clear escape routes help to protect them from smoke inhalation and burns.

Safe sleep routines

For babies, placing them on their back in a cot without pillows or loose blankets can help prevent sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). This control measure protects breathing and reduces entanglement risks.

Hygiene and illness prevention

Washing hands before feeding or after changing nappies is a control measure that prevents the spread of germs. Children have developing immune systems and this step reduces illness.

Keeping doors secured

Locking front and back doors during babysitting prevents strangers walking in and keeps children from wandering outside unsupervised. This control measure tackles the risk of abduction and accidents outdoors.

Supporting the Safety of the Babysitter

Babysitters also need to be kept safe while working. Control measures offer physical and emotional protection. They make sure that the babysitter can carry out their responsibilities without unnecessary danger.

Reducing physical strain

Using correct lifting techniques when picking up a child is a control measure. It prevents injury to the babysitter’s back, shoulders, and joints. This means they can continue working without pain.

Emergency procedures

Having clear emergency contact numbers and medical information at hand protects the babysitter during stressful situations. For example, in the event of sudden illness, the babysitter can act quickly without guessing what to do. This reduces panic and confusion.

Clear boundaries

Control measures include discussing expectations before babysitting starts. The babysitter knows exactly what is allowed and what is not. This stops misunderstandings and protects them from unfair blame or awkward situations.

PPE use where relevant

Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves when changing nappies, protects the babysitter from exposure to bodily fluids. This control measure reduces risk of infection from viruses or bacteria.

Managing behaviour safely

If a child has challenging behaviour, agreed strategies act as control measures. These could include talking calmly or using distraction. This limits risk of physical harm to the babysitter and prevents damage to property.

Safe working environment

Removing trip hazards like loose rugs or cables means the babysitter is less likely to fall. Injuries are prevented and the babysitter can focus on the child.

Preventing emotional stress

Control measures can support the babysitter’s wellbeing too. Knowing the routines, likes, and dislikes of the child reduces stress and helps build a positive relationship.

Avoiding unsafe situations with visitors

A control measure such as agreeing that no one else should visit during babysitting protects the babysitter from unwanted contact or confrontation. This keeps the environment predictable and safe.

How Control Measures Support Both Child and Babysitter

Some control measures protect both parties at the same time. This increases safety for everyone involved.

• First aid training allows the babysitter to respond well to injuries, keeping the child safe and giving confidence to the babysitter.
• Clear communication before babysitting means both know what is expected and can manage risks better.
• Fire safety checks with working smoke alarms protect all people in the home.
• Using secure locks protects the child from leaving unnoticed and keeps the babysitter safe from unwanted intruders.

Examples in Real Situations

Scenario 1: Safe meal preparation

If a child has an allergy, a control measure is to only give approved food. This protects the child from an allergic reaction and stops the babysitter from facing a medical emergency.

Scenario 2: Bathtime safety

Using shallow water and constant supervision is a control measure. It prevents drowning risk for the child and removes the babysitter’s risk of being accused of neglect.

Scenario 3: Playing outside

Checking outdoor areas for sharp objects or unsafe structures is a control measure. Children avoid injury from hazards and babysitters feel secure that the play space is safe.

Training and Awareness

For control measures to work, babysitters need training and awareness on safety practices. This includes first aid, safe food handling, and child development knowledge.

Awareness helps babysitters recognise hazards early and apply the right control measures. This constant attention means children are supervised well and babysitters feel capable in managing risks.

Reviewing and Updating Measures

Control measures should not stay the same without checking. The babysitter or parent should review them to make sure they still work. For example, a toddler who grows taller may reach new hazards, so cupboards may need new locks.

Updating control measures keeps risks managed for both child and babysitter as circumstances change.

Working with Parents

The babysitter should talk with parents before care starts. This includes discussing medical needs, bedtime routines, and house rules. Parents can share information about hazards in the home. This collaboration builds strong control measures that protect everyone.

Communication During Babysitting

Clear communication while working is itself a control measure. If the babysitter needs guidance, contacting the parents prevents wrong decisions. This protects the child and reassures the babysitter.

Building Confidence Through Control Measures

Control measures help the babysitter feel confident about their ability to keep children safe. For children, this confidence is calming. They feel secure when the babysitter appears organised and ready to handle risks.

Children learn about safety through daily experience. When control measures are part of their routine, they understand safe boundaries.

Emotional Support and Safety

Safety includes emotional wellbeing. Control measures like maintaining a calm environment protect the child from distress and support the babysitter’s mood.

Avoiding harsh tones, offering reassurance, and managing routines calmly are all steps that benefit both sides emotionally.

Final Thoughts

Control measures are practical steps that limit danger. They are not complicated but must be applied with care every time the babysitter works. Each measure helps create a safe space, whether it is securing harmful substances, managing behaviour, or keeping escape routes clear.

When both the child and babysitter feel safe, care becomes more relaxed and positive. A good babysitter understands how these measures work, applies them consistently, and reviews them when needed. Safety is built step by step through clear actions rather than chance, and that steady attention benefits everyone involved.