Home > Childcare Operations > Standard Operating Procedure (SOP): Labeling of Bottles and Sippy Cups

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP): Labeling of Bottles and Sippy Cups

1. Purpose

To ensure child safety, prevent cross-contamination, and eliminate mix-ups by requiring clear and consistent labeling of all bottles, sippy cups, and personal feeding items brought from home.

2. Scope

This SOP applies to all staff members responsible for receiving, handling, preparing, and supervising childrenā€™s feeding items, including teachers, assistants, floaters, and substitutes.

3. Policy Statement

All bottles, sippy cups, and personal feeding items brought from homeĀ must be clearly labeled with the childā€™s full name. Unlabeled or improperly labeled items may not be used.

4. Procedure

4.1 Parent Responsibility

  • Parents/guardians must label all bottles, sippy cups, lids, and personal feeding items with the childā€™sĀ full first and last nameĀ before bringing them to the school.

  • Labels must be legible, durable, and resistant to water and washing.

4.2 Staff Verification

  • Staff mustĀ check all bottles and sippy cups dailyĀ upon arrival to confirm proper labeling.

  • Verification should occur during morning drop-off or classroom setup.

4.3 Handling Unlabeled Items

  • If an item is not labeled or the label is illegible:

    • The item mustĀ not be used.

    • Staff must notify the Director or Assistant Director immediately.

    • Parents must be contacted to provide proper labeling before the item can be used.

4.4 Ongoing Monitoring

  • Staff must remain vigilant throughout the day to ensure items are not exchanged between children.

  • Any suspected mix-up must be reported to the Director immediately and documented according to incident reporting procedures.

5. Sanitation and Safety Compliance

  • Proper labeling supports sanitation practices and helps prevent the spread of illness.

  • All labeled items must still be handled, stored, and cleaned according to the schoolā€™s sanitation and food safety protocols.

6. Accountability

  • Failure by staff to follow this SOP may result in corrective action.

  • Repeated failure by parents to comply may result in further communication or action as determined by administration.

7. Review and Updates

This SOP will be reviewed annually or as required by licensing regulations or health guidelines.