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Child Release & Authorized Pickup

Purpose

To ensure the safety and supervision of all children by establishing clear procedures for releasing children only to authorized individuals as designated by the custodial parent or legal guardian.

Scope

This SOP applies to all staff members responsible for supervising, releasing, or transporting children enrolled in the program.

Policy Statement

The program is responsible for the supervision of each child at all times until the child is released to an authorized individual. A child shall not be released to any person other than those authorized in writing by the custodial parent or legal guardian.

Procedure

1. Authorized Pickup Documentation

  1. At enrollment, custodial parents or legal guardians must provide a written list of all individuals authorized to pick up their child.

  2. The authorization list must include:

    • Full legal name of each authorized individual

    • Relationship to the child

    • Contact information

  3. Any changes to authorized pickup individuals must be submitted in writing and approved by administration before release.

2. Verification of Identity

  1. Staff must verify the identity of every individual picking up a child.

  2. A government-issued photo ID is required (e.g., driver’s license, state ID, passport).

  3. Staff must confirm:

    • The name on the ID matches the authorized pickup list

    • The individual is approved for that child

  4. Children shall not be released if identification cannot be verified.

3. Release of the Child

  1. Once identity and authorization are verified, the child may be released to the authorized individual.

  2. Staff must ensure the child leaves the facility only under adult supervision.

  3. Release times must be recorded according to program attendance procedures.

4. Transportation & Designated Drop-Off (If Applicable)

  1. Any child transported by the program must be dropped off at the designated location agreed upon in writing by:

    • The provider

    • The custodial parent or legal guardian

  2. The child must be released only to an authorized individual at the designated location.

  3. Transportation release procedures follow the same verification and authorization requirements as on-site release.

5. Denial of Release

  1. A child shall not be released if:

    • The individual is not listed as authorized

    • Identification is not provided or cannot be verified

    • Staff have safety concerns

  2. Administration must be notified immediately if release is denied.

  3. The custodial parent or legal guardian must be contacted for further instruction.

Staff Responsibility

  • Maintain continuous supervision until release

  • Follow verification procedures without exception

  • Protect the child’s safety above convenience or familiarity

Compliance

Failure to follow this SOP may result in disciplinary action and may place the program out of compliance with childcare licensing regulations.