Why do you have to have parents permission to carry out observations on babies and children under 3 years?

Question

question is from nyq level 2 children's care learning and development. opton section 208.

Answer 1

well it depends on the placement at the nursery i work in we get students to write a letter for the parent asking for permission, then they carry out the observation if it is a genral observation which is not focused on 1 child more of a group then we allow them but the key worker reads over it then signs it.

Answer 2

Its almost a matter of courtesy...its makes sure they are know what is going on. Also it's their child and they may find that observing and writing about them without parent knowing is invasive and may knock their trust and confidence in you.

It's also to do with confidentuality and data protection...parents have the right to access info about their child. (except safe guarding issues)

Answer 3

Your in luck - I'm a CCLD NVQ assessor :)

You actually need permission on all ages but that age group is specific to 208 as you've chosen the optional baby unit.

The parent is the main care giver and has overall responsibility of the child/baby. The parent needs to give you permission for various reasons, these could include

* so they can be part of the assessment process

* working in partnership if there is any need for referral to specialists

* if the observational notes are viewed by any students etc

* in some settings they use photogrpahs to illustrate development and these may be used in displays from time to time

* confidentiality

Hope these help

Answer 4

I think Heathers answer was rather harsh how is anyone supposed to learn if they cannot ask questions would you not rather they asked and found out the answer than go along in life not knowing?

I own a pre-school and have had a recent OFSTED inspection where the outcome was Good.  We do not ask for parents permission to carry out observations on their children unless it is for part of a course ( our children are from 2 til school age).  When parents start their children in our pre-school I give them an induction into our policies of the pre-school and they are made aware during this time how we will assess the children and what we will do to carry out these assessements.  So I don't ask for parents permission to carry out the observations I inform them that this is what will happen as part of their child being a member of our group.

As I said we have recently had an OFSTED inspection and this was not brought to our attention during that so we run on the basis that parents are made aware of our policies  and so sending their child to us is them agreeing to it.

You could word your assignment  "it is essential that parents are kept informed and updated regarding their children progression.  Observations allow you to provide them with that information, therefore informing parents about your policies and procedures in the group on induction is consent that you can carry out observations on the children in your care"

Answer 5

Isn't this a bit obvious?  A child that age can't speak up for themselve or re-count events at a later date if any accusations of abuse crop up.  

I worry about all the simple questions in the N/SVQ courses that people seek help on, I mean really, what kind of IDIOTS are going to be looking after children in nurseries?

WORKING PARENTS TAKE NOTE - PEOPLE THIS INEPT WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR CHILDRENS LIFE AND EDUCATIONS, DO THE DECENT THING AND STAY AT HOME!!

Answer 6

You have to honor privacy, some of us simply don't want people noticing our kids (no more reason than that is needed).

Answer 7

i think heather is a bit harsh at least your trying to find the answer, take no notice of her answer. back to answering your question the reason for it is that babies and children are young and vunrable atsuch a young age that concent is needed also in this day in age people are quick to sue each other so permission is needed in all we do with children