Animal, Pet and Wildlife Policy and Procedure

At Seven Steps Childcare, the inclusion of animals and wildlife is a central theme. We believe that contact with nature fosters empathy and respect for living things while providing rich observational learning opportunities for children.

Ethos and Learning

We utilise our garden, local river, and beach environments to observe birds and animals in their natural habitats. Children are taught to remain still and quiet during these sessions to observe natural behaviours without causing distress to the wildlife.

Safety and Hygiene Procedures

Keeping hands clean, particularly after contact with any animal, is a key priority. Our safety protocols include:

• Safety Around Dogs: When walking in the community, children are taught to remain vigilant. If an unfamiliar dog approaches, children are instructed to use the "statue" position—stopping, remaining still, and crossing their arms over their chest with hands clenched as fists to prevent sudden movements.
• Vigilance for Fouling: We remain vigilant in checking all walking paths, trails, and play areas for dog mess to ensure children avoid contaminated areas.
• Handwashing: Children must wash their hands after any contact with animals or their food, and after playing in outdoor areas where animals may have been.
• Supervision: Children are never left unsupervised with any animal, including our family cats.
• Risk Management: We teach children to always check with an adult before approaching an unfamiliar animal and how to identify typical behaviours to prevent alarm.

Our Pet Cats

We have three pet cats who have access to our home via a cat flap. To manage the environment effectively:

• Space Management: During childminding hours, cats are directed to sleep in designated upstairs areas to ensure the main childcare spaces remain dedicated to the children. We can also lock the cat flaps to contain or exclude the cats at any time if necessary.
• Health and Maintenance: To maintain high hygiene standards, litter trays are kept in locked cupboards, and food bowls are washed and stored on countertops promptly after use.
• Garden Safety: The garden is checked daily for fouling before children arrive and is monitored throughout the day.
• Consent: Specific written consent is required from parents before any child is permitted to stroke or help feed the cats.

Garden Birds and Wildlife

We encourage children to help feed and observe garden birds to foster a love of nature.

• Interactive Bird Study: We provide resources like tally charts and identification guides to help children count and name local birds. This develops early mathematical skills and allows children to notice seasonal patterns.
• Refilling Feeders: Children are encouraged to help maintain our bird table by refilling seed and water feeders. This is always a carefully planned and risk-assessed activity, and children must always wash their hands thoroughly afterward.
• Observation Points: We use the front room and kitchen windows as observation points to promote quiet and respectful study of nature.