WHAT IS A KEYPERSON?

Definition
A keyperson has special responsibility for a group of between 3 to 8 children depending on age & stage of development. Parents and children know the name of their keyperson from the beginning of their involvement with the setting.

Aim
A keyperson will ensure that the needs of each child are recognised within the setting so that, within the overall framework of the group, an individual curriculum or play plan is devised to meet these needs.

Main Duties
To assist the child to settle into the setting by:

• Welcoming the child and parents to the team and environment.
• Talking with the manager, so she can provide feedback to parents at the end of each session.
• Keeping a special watchful eye on the child, particularly in the first few sessions.
• Assisting the child to integrate into the setting as necessary, observe and assess in order to meet their individual needs.
• To provide for the emotional needs of the child, e.g. to comfort and reassure the child at any time of distress and speak to them about any new ideas or concerns they may have.

To routinely care for the child, i.e. collecting from school, helping to settle them on arrival, assist with hygiene, toileting, hanging up coats and book bags, checking for homework, offering fruit & water etc.

To encourage the child to participate in an activity of their choice and to contribute ideas so they feel they have some ownership of the club.
 
To supervise during mealtimes with the children in the keyperson’s group.

To contribute information about individual children’s needs to the planning of their care, learning & development and the clubs activities, whilst respecting confidentiality, as necessary.