Mobile Phone and Camera Policy

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is the statutory framework in England. The EYFS states: There is a requirement to have a policy relating to mobile phone and camera use in the setting. The requirement also covers ‘other electronic devices with imaging and sharing capabilities’.

Personal mobile phones and recording devices (tablets, cameras, laptops, smart watches etc) might used in the setting to record children’s learning and to share information about children with parents by, for example, sending photos of children playing through email or WhatsApp. Parent details are stored on mobile phones which are taken on outings. Little Explorers aim to protect information about children and their families which is kept on mobile phones and use appropriate online security. Other devices with imaging and sharing capabilities such as smart watches are used to monitor emails, phone calls etc during working hours.

Visitors are asked to switch off or securely store mobile phones and not use smart watches while in the setting. Visitors are not left unsupervised and do not use mobile phones or cameras when near the children. Family members are asked not to use mobile phones, cameras or smart watches when they are in childminding spaces – for example, in rooms in the house or garden where childminding is taking place.

Older childminded children must keep personal mobile phones in their bags which are out of sight and reach of the little ones and they will be taught about how to keep themselves and children safe – for example, being asked not to take photos or videos of childminded children. We discuss online safety with older children and ensure they know they can come to us if they are concerned.

To comply with our registration with the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) Little Explorers:

• Obtain parents’ consent for photographs to be shared.
• Ensure children are appropriately dressed and only use the child’s first name with a photograph.
• Ensure ‘acceptable use’ guidance from the Information Commissioners Office is embedded in practice.
• Ensure the use of cameras including any electronic devices that might be used for imaging and sharing are closely monitored and open to scrutiny.

If you have any questions about this policy or would like to make any comments, please ask.