Queensland

Dear Sherryl

I work as a teacher at a kindergarten. As part of our daily routine at the kindergarten, the children have a 30 minute rest period. As the children are asleep during this time, is it acceptable if I leave my assistant to supervise them while I catch up on some paperwork in my office?

Helena

Dear Helena

It is a requirement under the national law for children in the care of an approved service to be adequately supervised at all times. While part of this requirement entails the maintenance of appropriate the educator to child ratios, other factors also play a part. These include the ages and abilities of the children, the positioning of educators, the activities being undertaken, and the visibility and accessibility of the area(s) where children are located.

Adequate supervision of young children generally means that educators remain in close proximity to the children, and that they are actively involved and able to respond immediately to any situations involving them. During a rest period, it may be appropriate for one educator to remain with the children and for the other to be in an adjoining room, provided that the teacher is able to see and hear the children, and remains responsive to their needs.

Sherryl