EYP 4: Safeguarding, protection and welfare of babies and young children in Early Years Settings
The “Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner” is a qualification that equips individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to work with young children. One important unit within this diploma is “EYP 4: Safeguarding, protection and welfare of babies and young children in Early Years Settings.” This unit focuses on the critical responsibilities of professionals in early years settings to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the children under their care.
Safeguarding and protection are fundamental in early years settings because young children are particularly vulnerable and depend entirely on adults to keep them safe. This unit teaches practitioners how to identify signs of abuse, neglect, and other forms of harm. It also covers procedures for reporting concerns, as well as ways to create a safe and nurturing environment. Knowledge in these areas is crucial for preventing harm and responding effectively if issues arise.
The welfare of babies and young children extends beyond physical safety to include emotional and psychological wellbeing. The principles taught in this unit ensure that children are not only protected from harm but also supported in a way that promotes their overall development. Practitioners learn to build positive relationships, understand children’s needs, and create inclusive environments. This unit is vital as it lays the foundation for a practitioner’s ability to provide high-quality care, ensuring that children can thrive both now and in the future.
Answers and Guides
1. Understand legislation and guidelines for the safeguarding, protection and welfare of babies and young children
- 1.1 Outline the legal requirements and guidance on safeguarding, security, confidentiality of information sharing and promoting the welfare of babies and young children
- 1.2 Identify policies and procedures relating to safeguarding, child protection and online safety
- 1.3 Explain the roles and responsibilities of the Early Years Practitioner in relation to the following procedures: reporting/dealing with disclosure, child protection and promoting the welfare of babies and young children, safeguarding and security, confidentiality, information sharing, use of technology
2. Understand whistleblowing
- 2.1 Explain what is meant by the term ‘whistleblowing’
- 2.2 Explain the responsibility of the Early Years Practitioner in relation to whistleblowing
3. Understand how to respond to evidence or concerns that a baby or child has been or is at risk of serious harm or abuse
- 3.1 Identify factors that may indicate that a baby or child is in danger or at risk of serious harm or abuse
- 3.2 Explain the procedures to be followed to protect babies and young children, including: • domestic abuse • physical abuse • emotional abuse • sexual abuse • neglect
- 3.3 Explain the benefits of working with others in the context of safeguarding, protection and welfare of children
- 3.4 Explain support and advice available to the: child, parents/carers, Early Years Practitioner
- 3.5 Explain why child safeguarding practice reviews are required
4. Be able to locate policies and procedures for safeguarding babies and young children
