Activity 3.3 | Writing Policies and Procedures

Now, you are asked to create a plan for developing, updating, or evaluating a childcare centre's vision, philosophy, and policy/procedure documents. Recognize that each context is unique, and different processes may apply depending on the specific needs and circumstances.

Practice Writing or Revising a Policy

Before you try to write or revise policy/procedures in your context make sure you practice! Try out drafting a new policy and procedure or select an existing one to rewrite with a more inclusive and relevant approach. Draw on the information and steps outlined in this course. When you have completed it reflect on how this process felt and what challenges you encountered. Share your revised policy with a colleague and gather feedback.

Go through the following questions in sequence: 

• What are the steps you need to take to create or revise the documents?
• What is your timeline for completing this process?
• Are there specific policies in place for how policies and procedures are updated or changed?
• Who needs to approve the final documents?

• What is missing from the existing policies?
• What areas should be reevaluated to ensure alignment with current practices?
• Do these policies serve all members of the centre's community equally, or might they unintentionally disadvantage families or staff?
• Who are the staff, families, and even community members that should be consulted throughout the process?
• What are some ways you will gather their input and ensure it is reflected in the policy changes?
• Which legislation, regulations, and licensing requirements must be considered during the review and update process? Write a list of the relevant regulations. 
• How will you create space for open discussions about the current policies?
• What is missing from this policy/procedure? 
• Are there any parts that make you curious? Or that you had not considered before? 
• How might these be different in a centre that provides all the food?