Protecting children and supporting staff: Why reporting comments matters

In early childhood education and care (ECEC) settings, how educators respond when children make comments particularly those that are inappropriate, concerning, or directed at educators or other employees is critical to maintaining safety, transparency and trust.

When a child makes a comment about an educator, whether it seems minor, playful, innocent, or more serious, it must always be treated seriously, as even small or unintended remarks can put a staff member at risk. Services need to be confident that staff know exactly what to do: document the comment and report it promptly to the centre manager or approved provider. Families should also be notified in a timely and appropriate way. This ensures a clear and transparent record, appropriate oversight, open communication with families, and the ability to identify any emerging patterns early.

If a child makes an inappropriate or concerning comment about an educator, the situation must be handled professionally, calmly, and in line with service policy. Importantly, educators should:

1. Listen without reacting – avoid showing shock, denial or defensiveness. The goal is to make the child feel heard, not judged.
2. Do not investigate – never ask leading questions or try to resolve the matter yourself.
3. Document exactly what was said – record the child’s words as closely as possible, noting the time, date, setting and any context.
4. Report immediately – escalate the concern to the nominated supervisor, centre manager or approved provider without delay.
5. Maintain confidentiality – do not discuss the matter with colleagues, families or others unless directed to by leadership.

These steps protect both the child and the educator. They ensure that the matter is dealt with appropriately, transparently, and at the right decision-making level.

Why escalation matters

By escalating immediately, services can ensure:

• Concerns are managed in line with child safety and regulatory obligations
• Families are informed appropriately by leadership, rather than through informal or inconsistent communication
• A clear record is kept of the child’s comment and the service’s response
• Staff involved are supported, and the service can determine next steps in line with policy and the Child Safe Standards

This approach also protects educators. When matters are reported promptly, managers and approved providers can step in, ensuring processes are followed and reducing the risk of allegations being mishandled or ignored.

Partnering with families

Families have a right to be informed when concerns are raised, especially if a child has made a comment about their care. When services handle disclosures promptly and professionally, it helps build trust and demonstrates a commitment to transparency.

Whether the concern proves to be a misunderstanding, or something more serious, early communication ensures that families can provide input, seek clarification and work with the service on appropriate support.

Under the Education and Care Services National Law and Regulations, all incidents, injuries and disclosures must be recorded and responded to. The Child Safe Standards further require that children’s voices are heard and acted upon in a way that prioritises their safety and wellbeing.

But beyond compliance, the sector must consider: Are we equipping educators to respond appropriately when a child makes a comment about them or another staff member?

Clear policies, regular training and a culture of openness are essential. Educators need to know that if a child says something concerning, the correct response is not to defend themselves, dismiss the child, or stay silent, it is to document, report and escalate.

At the heart of every ECEC service is a commitment to children’s safety, dignity and voice. Equally, services have a responsibility to ensure educators are protected by clear processes. Acting early, documenting accurately and escalating concerns ensures both children and educators are supported, and that trust with families is maintained.