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Protect children from inappropriate material
You must protect children from exposure to inappropriate material, such as material with an explicitly sexual or violent nature. This includes supervising children’s use of technology including the internet.
Read the requirements and how to meet them for your service type:
- HS32 for centre-based services
- HS29 for home-based services
- HS14 for hospital-based services
- HS32 for kōhanga reo
- HS10 for playgroups.
Protect children from adults who are unwell
If you suspect someone is physically or mentally unwell in a way that could pose a risk to children, you must prevent them from coming into contact with children at your service.
Physical or mental unwellness includes:
- any physical or mental condition that could be dangerous (for example, strange or disturbing behaviour, or aggression)
- any infectious or contagious disease or condition.
An unwell adult may need to be excluded from your premises. This is permitted by Regulation 57 of the Education (Early Childhood Services) Regulations 2008.
Regulation 57 – New Zealand Legislation
If someone is under the influence of alcohol or drugs
You must make sure no adults at your service are under the influence of alcohol or any other substance. This includes during drop-offs and pick-ups of children.
This applies to adults living in a home where home-based education and care takes place.
Read the requirements and how to meet them for your service type:
- HS33 for centre-based services
- HS30 for home-based services (coordinators and educators)
- HS31 for home-based services (other people in the home)
- HS16 for hospital-based services
- HS33 for kōhanga reo
- HS9 for playgroups.
Child car restraint
Under New Zealand law, children under 7 years old must use an approved child restraint suitable for their age and size. If a child is 7 years old, they must be secured in a restraint if available in the vehicle.
The driver must ensure that any child in their vehicle is safely secured in the right car seat.
New Zealand Transport Agency | Waka Kotahi NZ has car restraint guidance you can share with whānau | families at your early learning service.
Child restraints – NZ Transport Agency | Waka Kotahi
If this approach doesn't ensure the child restraints are used correctly, contact the Police.
Contact us – New Zealand Police
If you have concerns about a child’s safety it may be appropriate to also contact Oranga Tamariki.
