Purpose

To ensure the safe, compliant, and supervised transportation of children by the childcare program, protecting their health, safety, and well-being at all times.

Scope

This SOP applies to all transportation provided by the childcare program, including travel:

  • By foot

  • In vehicles owned, operated, or regularly used by the program

  • Through contracts or agreements with external transportation providers

Step 1: Department Approval

  1. Obtain written approval from the Department before offering transportation services.

  2. Maintain documentation showing compliance with all required regulatory sections.

  3. Do not transport children until approval is confirmed and on file.

Step 2: Vehicle Readiness and Compliance

  1. Ensure all vehicles used for transportation:

    • Meet state safety and inspection requirements

    • Are properly insured

    • Are clean, safe, and free of hazards

  2. Confirm each vehicle is equipped with aĀ child safety alarm systemĀ that:

    • Activates before the driver exits

    • Prompts inspection of the vehicle for children

Step 3: Driver Authorization

  1. Verify that only authorized staff members operate transportation vehicles.

  2. Confirm drivers:

    • Hold a valid driverā€™s license

    • Meet background screening requirements

    • Are trained in transportation safety procedures

  3. Maintain driver documentation in personnel files.

Step 4: Pre-Trip Preparation

  1. Complete a vehicle safety check prior to each trip, including:

    • Tires, lights, brakes, and mirrors

    • Doors and child safety locks

    • Emergency supplies and first aid kit

  2. Review the daily transportation roster and attendance log.

  3. Confirm emergency contact information for all children being transported.

Step 5: Child Loading Procedures

  1. Supervise children closely during loading.

  2. Conduct aĀ name-to-face headcountĀ as each child enters the vehicle.

  3. Ensure children are:

    • Seated appropriately

    • Secured with required restraints or seat belts

  4. Mark attendance once all children are safely loaded.

Step 6: Transportation

  1. Follow all traffic laws and safe driving practices.

  2. Maintain appropriate child-to-staff supervision at all times.

  3. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle for any reason.

Step 7: Unloading Procedures

  1. Park the vehicle in a safe, designated unloading area.

  2. Assist children during unloading.

  3. Conduct aĀ name-to-face headcountĀ as each child exits the vehicle.

  4. Escort children directly to the designated supervision area.

Step 8: Post-Trip Vehicle Inspection

  1. Respond to the child safety alarm system before exiting the vehicle.

  2. Walk through the entire vehicle, including:

    • All seats

    • Under seats

    • Rear rows and aisles

  3. Visually confirm thatĀ no children remain insideĀ the vehicle.

  4. Document completion of the inspection as required.

Step 9: Documentation

  1. Maintain transportation records, including:

    • Attendance and headcounts

    • Driver identification

    • Trip times and destinations

    • Vehicle inspection confirmations

  2. Store records according to regulatory retention requirements.

Step 10: Incident and Emergency Response

  1. In the event of an accident, breakdown, or emergency:

    • Ensure immediate child safety

    • Contact emergency services if needed

    • Notify program leadership and parents/guardians

  2. Complete all required incident reports promptly.

Compliance and Monitoring

  • Transportation procedures are subject to regular review.

  • Failure to follow this SOP may result in disciplinary action and regulatory consequences.