Prioritising Childcare Safety: Our Trusted Approach at Poplars Early Learning
When you’re choosing childcare, nothing matters more than knowing your child is safe. At Poplars Early Learning, our childcare safety measures go beyond compliance; they’re part of who we are.
From secure entry points and supervised play spaces to educators trained in child protection, first aid, and CPR, we take every step to create an environment where children feel safe, supported, and free to grow. As a family-owned service, safety isn’t just a checklist, it’s a promise to every parent who entrusts us with their child.
With our Holt centre now open and Jerrabomberra opening soon, here’s how we put childcare safety measures into practice every single day.
Why Safety Comes First
Every parent asks the same question: “Will my child be safe here?”
At Poplars, every detail of our centres is designed with safety in mind. Children are naturally curious, and we want them to explore, play, and learn with confidence. That’s why our safety practices extend far beyond locked doors and policies:
Zero tolerance for any form of abuse or neglect.
Thorough staff screening, including Working With Children Checks and reference checks, is conducted before educators join our team.
Buddy system during probation, ensuring new educators are never left alone with children until their competence and relationships are established.
Ongoing training in child protection, first aid, and the Circle of Security program, so educators are equipped to support children’s emotional and physical well-being.
When families know their child is safe, everyone can focus on what really matters: watching them laugh, learn, and thrive.
Childcare Safety Measures That Matter
Secure and Welcoming Spaces
Your child’s safety begins the moment you arrive. Our centres use secure front-door entry, ensuring only authorised adults can access the premises. CCTV is in place surrounding outdoor areas.
Inside, every room is tailored for children’s needs, with furniture at child-friendly heights, age-appropriate play equipment, and outdoor areas divided for toddlers, preschoolers, and older children. Daily checks ensure toys, furniture, and equipment are safe, while soft outdoor surfaces and clear sightlines help minimise accidents.
Health and Hygiene Every Day
Clean, healthy environments keep children safe and happy. At Poplars:
Rooms are cleaned daily, with extra care given to high-touch areas.
Handwashing is built into the routine, before meals and after play.
Educators lead by example, showing children that hygiene is part of everyday life.
All meals and snacks are prepared in line with the national childcare health and safety guidelines, with allergy management and cultural inclusivity built in.
Skilled and Prepared Educators
Safe childcare depends on the people caring for your child each day. That’s why we hold our team to the highest standards. At Poplars, every educator:
Holds a valid Working With Children Check (WWCC).
Is trained as a mandatory reporter, able to recognise and act on any concerns for a child’s wellbeing.
Completes regular child protection training, refreshed to meet current standards.
Maintains current first aid and CPR qualifications.
Beyond meeting requirements, we invest in our educators so they can provide the safest and most supportive environments. New team members are paired with a buddy during probation, ensuring they are never left alone until they’re fully confident and connected with families. Ongoing mentorship and Circle of Security training give our educators the tools to build secure relationships, so children feel safe, seen, and supported.
Emergency Readiness
Even in the safest childcare setting, unexpected events can happen. Preparation makes all the difference.
At Poplars, fire and evacuation drills are practised regularly. This builds calm routines so children and educators know exactly what to do if a real emergency occurs. Our centres are fitted with smoke detectors, marked exits, and well-stocked emergency kits.
If a medical issue arises, staff follow clear procedures: families are contacted straight away, and medical support is sought without delay. These steps ensure children are cared for promptly and parents are kept fully informed.
Partnering With Families
Childcare safety works best when families and educators work together. That’s why communication at Poplars is always open and transparent.
Updates when it matters: Parents are informed of any incidents, no matter how small.
Stronger connections: We encourage families to build relationships with their child’s educators and centre manager. Our doors are always open for questions or concerns.
Support at home: We share practical guidance with parents, from talking about consent to encouraging children to speak up, so families can continue important conversations beyond the centre.
When families feel connected and involved, children feel secure.
Helping Children Build Confidence and Safety Skills
Keeping children safe isn’t only about policies and procedures; it’s also about giving them the tools to protect themselves.
At Poplars, children learn about safety in ways that are age-appropriate and empowering:
Consent and protective behaviours: Through stories, songs, and conversations, children learn their body belongs to them and it’s okay to say “no.”
Clear language: Educators use correct anatomical terms, helping children express themselves clearly if something makes them uncomfortable.
Encouragement to speak up: We teach children that they can always talk to a trusted adult. Brave conversations are celebrated, not silenced.
These skills give children the confidence to explore their world while knowing their voice matters.
A Parent’s Quick Checklist
When you visit a childcare centre, trust your instincts, but also take note of a few key details.
Look Around
Is the entrance secure and supervised?
Do play spaces look clean, safe, and inviting?
Is the equipment suitable for your child’s age group?
Are educators actively involved and present with the children?
Listen In
Do educators speak warmly and respectfully to children?
Can you hear laughter, conversations, and happy play?
Does the centre feel calm but energetic?
Notice the Details
Are educators trained in first aid and CPR?
Are safety and emergency procedures explained clearly?
Are new staff supported with a buddy system?
Feel the Connection
Do you feel welcomed when you arrive?
Are staff open and transparent when you ask questions?
Does your child feel comfortable and engaged?
If you feel confident as you answer these questions, you may have found the right safe childcare option for your family.
Our Promise to Families
At Poplars, childcare safety measures are more than rules; they’re woven into everything we do. From secure environments and professional training to open partnerships with families, our goal is always the same: to keep your child safe while they learn, grow, and thrive.
With Holt already welcoming families and Jerrabomberra opening soon, we’re proud to provide safe and supportive spaces where children can feel confident every day.
