Should I allow filming at my Nativity Play?

As a nursery, it's important to establish clear policies and boundaries when it comes to filming and taking photos of the children in your care. This not only helps to protect the privacy and safety of the children, but also ensures that parents and guardians are aware of your expectations and can make informed decisions about their own behaviour.

Section 3.4 of the "Statutory framework for the early years foundation stage", ( "The safeguarding and welfare requirements" > "Child Protection" ) states that you should have a Child Protection Policy which covers the use of mobile phones and cameras in your setting.

One way to approach this issue is to allow individual photos of children, but to discourage or prohibit group photos or the sharing of images on social media. This can help to avoid any potential safeguarding issues that may arise from group photos, such as the identification of a child who is a victim of domestic violence or abuse.

When creating your Child Protection Policy, it's important to consider the following:

1. The rights and wishes of the children and their parents or guardians.
   The children in your care should always come first, and their safety and well-being should be the top priority. It's important to respect the wishes of the parents or guardians when it comes to filming and sharing photos of their children.
2. The potential risks and consequences of sharing images on social media.
   While social media can be a great way to share memories and connect with others, it can also pose risks to the privacy and safety of the children in your care. By limiting or prohibiting the sharing of images on social media, you can help to protect the children from potential harm.
3. The potential benefits of allowing individual photos.
   While group photos and the sharing of images on social media can pose risks, individual photos can be a great way for parents and guardians to capture special moments and memories with their children. By allowing individual photos, you can provide parents with the opportunity to take photos while still addressing any potential safeguarding concerns.

Ultimately, the best approach to addressing filming policies in your nursery will depend on the specific needs and circumstances of your organization and the children in your care. By considering the rights and wishes of the children and their parents, the potential risks and consequences of sharing images on social media, and the potential benefits of allowing individual photos, you can create a policy that balances the needs of all parties and helps to ensure the safety and well-being of the children in your care.