The EYFS requires you to keep a written record of accidents, injuries and first aid, and to tell parents the same day or as soon as reasonably practicable. A simple form, filled in at the time, does both.
What to record
- The child's name.
- The date, time and place.
- What happened, in plain words.
- The injury, if any.
- The first aid given, and by whom.
- Any witnesses.
- When and how you told the parent, and their signature.
Fill it in as soon as you can, while you still remember the details. Write what you saw, not what you assume.
Incidents and existing injuries
Some childminders keep a second record for incidents that aren't accidents, such as a bite from another child, and for marks or injuries a child arrives with. Note what you see, ask the parent, and write down what they say. If anything worries you, your safeguarding policy applies.
Telling Ofsted
Serious accidents, injuries and deaths of a child in your care must be reported to Ofsted as soon as reasonably practicable, and within 14 days at the latest. Keep a copy of your notification with the record.
My accident policy guide covers the procedure that goes with this record.
Questions people ask
Do parents have to sign the accident record? It's good practice to ask them to sign, so you both have a record they were told.
How long should I keep accident records? At least as long as your other records about the child, and longer where the law requires.