St Albans North Preschool

Staff have been observed leaving children crying and screaming in distress during drop-off while engaging in conversations with each other, rather than responding to the children’s emotional needs. This raises concerns about the centre’s approach to duty of care, responsive caregiving and children’s emotional wellbeing.<br><br>Basic childcare practices require educators to respond promptly and appropriately when children show signs of distress, providing comfort, reassurance and emotional support to help them feel safe and secure. During drop-off, educators should acknowledge children’s feelings, offer comfort and reassurance, and support them through the transition from their parents to the care environment.<br><br>Leaving distressed children without appropriate support, particularly when staff are available but occupied in conversations, raises concerns about whether the children’s emotional needs are being adequately prioritised and whether the centre is consistently implementing appropriate early childhood education and care practices.