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There will likely be times when you see unsafe situations in child development or school-age programs. It is important to think about how you will respond to these situations. As you watch the video, think about how you would guide the staff member toward a safe resolution of the situation.

1. What strengths does this teacher show in her interactions with the child? In what ways does she promote safety?
    

   The safe space is appropriate; it’s clear the teachers are offering children a space to have some privacy and get some time away from the group. Children can clearly choose to whether to go there and how long to stay. They have strategies posted on the wall for calming down. The teacher comforts the child and monitors his safety. She offers him strategies for returning to the flow of the day with her support.
2. What safety concerns do you have about what you saw in the video? Be specific and link your answers to the safety considerations described in this lesson.
    

   The location of the safe space may pose some safety risks. The stack of cots could be pushed over and injure the child in the clip or other children. There is also a variety of teacher materials sitting on top of the cots. These materials could fall on the child or others. The child also hits his head on the wall which increases his risk of injury.
3. What suggestions would you make to the staff member?
    

   Safety could be improved by moving the safe space to an area with ft, low, or transparent boundaries. Ensure adults can see in the area at all times and that the child can see the activities of the class. There should be no items near the safe space that children could pull down on themselves. It may also be important to provide padding or soft surfaces around the safe space.