Safe and Appropriate Use of ICT in Little Wonderland Nursery Policy

  1. Policy Statement

Little Wonderland Nursery is committed to ensuring that information and communication technology (ICT) is used safely, appropriately, and effectively to support children’s learning, development, and wellbeing. ICT will be used in ways that are age-appropriate, inclusive, and aligned with early childhood best practice, while safeguarding children from potential risks.

  1. Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All children enrolled at Little Wonderland Nursery
  • Educators, staff, students, and volunteers
  • Families and visitors when engaging with ICT within the service
  1. Definition of ICT

ICT includes, but is not limited to:

  • Computers, tablets, and interactive whiteboards
  • Digital cameras and audio-visual recording devices
  • Educational software and applications
  • Internet-enabled devices
  • Communication platforms used by the service (e.g. email, parent communication apps)
  1. Guiding Principles

The use of ICT in the early years will:

  • Support play-based learning and positive learning outcomes
  • Be developmentally appropriate and purposeful
  • Promote creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving
  • Respect children’s rights, privacy, and dignity
  • Be balanced with hands-on, active, and social learning experiences
  1. Appropriate Use of ICT With Children

Educators will:

  • Use ICT intentionally to enhance learning experiences rather than replace traditional play
  • Ensure screen time is limited, purposeful, and suitable for children’s age and developmental stage
  • Supervise children at all times when ICT is in use
  • Select high-quality, educational, and culturally inclusive digital content
  • Encourage children to use ICT respectfully and safely
  • Use ICT as a shared experience, promoting interaction and discussion

Children will be supported to:

  • Use devices gently and responsibly
  • Follow simple, age-appropriate rules when using ICT
  • Develop early digital literacy skills through guided experiences
  1. Online Safety and Risk Management

To ensure online safety, the ELC will:

  • Use secure networks, filters, and passwords where internet access is available
  • Restrict access to inappropriate or unsafe content
  • Ensure children do not independently access the internet
  • Regularly review and update software and security settings
  • Respond promptly to any breaches of online safety
  1. Use of Images, Video, and Digital Records
  • Written parent/guardian consent will be obtained before taking or using images or videos of children
  • Images will be used respectfully and only for approved purposes
  • Children’s images and personal information will not be shared on public platforms without explicit consent
  • All digital records will be stored securely and accessed only by authorised staff
  1. Educator Responsibilities

Educators and staff must:

  • Model safe, ethical, and responsible ICT use
  • Follow all service policies related to ICT, privacy, and child protection
  • Maintain confidentiality when using digital communication and record-keeping systems
  • Participate in ongoing professional learning related to ICT and online safety
  1. Family and Community Engagement

The ELC will:

  • Inform families about how ICT is used within the service
  • Encourage families to support safe and balanced ICT use at home
  • Provide guidance and information about online safety in the early years when appropriate
  1. Breaches of the Policy
  • Any inappropriate use of ICT will be addressed promptly
  • Incidents will be documented and managed in line with service procedures
  • Serious breaches may result in further action in accordance with employment or enrolment agreements
  1. Policy Review

This policy will be:

  • Reviewed regularly to ensure compliance with current legislation, regulations, and best practice
  • Updated in consultation with educators, management, and families as required
  1. Related Policies and Documents
  • Child Protection Policy
  • Confidentiality Policy
  • Code of Conduct

Approved by: Stacey Sneddon____________________________
Date: 18/12/2025____________________________