Truly Scrumptious Early Years Nurseries

Animals In The Nursery policy

Animal Interaction Policy

Introduction

At Truly Scrumptious Nurseries, we recognise that the presence of animals provides a wealth of learning opportunities. Children develop an understanding of the natural world, including animals and other living creatures, as part of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Interacting with animals also helps children learn how to care for living things and understand what they need to survive and thrive.

Our Experience with Animals

In the past, our Romford setting was home to two beloved therapy rabbits, Leroy and Shteve, who are sadly no longer with us. Occasionally, Barney and Maggie—our Managing Director’s family boxer dogs—visit the nursery to engage with the children in a calm and supervised environment.

We also organise special animal experience days throughout the year. These include visits from farmyard animals and presentations from “Safari Pete,” who introduces children to a variety of species in a safe and educational setting.

Risk Assessment

All parents are informed about the presence of animals during their initial visit to the nursery.
Any confirmed allergies or medical concerns related to animals are carefully recorded and considered in all planning.
On days when children with known allergies are attending, animals are restricted from specific areas to ensure safety.
Risk assessments are conducted prior to every animal visit. These assessments ensure that all precautions are taken to prevent accidents, injuries, or the spread of infection.
Hand hygiene is a priority: children wash their hands with sterilising gel or antibacterial soap after handling animals.
A designated handwashing station is located just outside the Avery to support hygienic practices.

Health & Hygiene

Staff are fully trained in hygiene and safety procedures when animals are present.
Children are closely monitored during all interactions with animals.
Staff ensure that children do not place their hands near the animals’ faces or their own mouths.
After animal contact, children are encouraged and supported to wash their hands thoroughly before returning to their regular activities.
Animals are never left with children unsupervised.

EYFS Key Themes and Commitments

A Unique Child	Positive Relationships	Enabling Environments	Learning & Development
1.4 Health & Well-being	2.3 Supporting Learning	3.3 The Learning Environment	4.1 Play and Exploration
			4.4 Knowledge and Understanding of the World

EYFS Key Themes and Commitments

All animals interacting with children at Truly Scrumptious Nurseries are handled with care and respect. We ensure they are healthy, properly housed during visits, and never subjected to stressful or unsafe situations

Policy written by: Brittany V – Nursery Manager – 15/05/2025