12. Appendices

12.14. Appendix N: FRC Safety & Security Checklist for Children

This checklist ensures that all areas where children may be present are operated with both physical and emotional safety in mind.

Section 1: Community Education Partners
☐ Single controlled point of entry and exit, monitored by FRC staff or security
☐ Clearly designated zones for different age groups:
  • Infants
  • Pre-K/Kindergarten
  • Elementary School
  • Middle School
☐ Separate quiet area for nap time or sensory regulation (e.g., mats, low lighting)
☐ Sufficient space for supervised play, minimizing risk of injury from running or overcrowding
☐ Age-appropriate toys free of choking hazards and regularly sanitized
☐ Covered electrical outlets and secured cords
☐ Furniture free of sharp corners; corners padded where needed
☐ Hot water temperature regulated to prevent scalding
☐ Running hot and cold water available
☐ Diaper-changing area with privacy and sanitation supplies
☐ Clean, accessible bathrooms suitable for various age groups
☐ Trash storage with child-safe, lidded receptacles
☐ Overflow space identified and ready for surge operations
Section 2: Intake and Registration Area
☐ Controlled entry with security or greeter presence
☐ Age-appropriate seating and distractions available (e.g., books, toys)
☐ Visual privacy and quiet space for children with sensory needs
☐ Child-friendly signage and visual aids for non-verbal or developmentally delayed children
☐ Language access and interpreter services available
☐ Wristbands or ID tags linked to intake documentation
☐ Protocols in place to identify unaccompanied minors and trigger safeguarding process
Section 3: Waiting Areas (General or Family)
☐ Supervision zones clearly defined and monitored
☐ Soft seating or floor space for children to rest or play
☐ Safe distance from exits or hazardous areas (e.g., kitchens, storage)
☐ Behavioral health staff or child life specialists accessible for children in distress
☐ Access to basic supplies (blankets, snacks, water, comfort items)
Section 4: Pediatric Medical & Isolation Zones
☐ Child-sized equipment and seating
☐ Privacy screens and visual barriers where appropriate
☐ Appropriately trained pediatric staff and volunteers
☐ Basic pediatric first aid kit and PPE available
☐ Clean surfaces and protocols for toy/equipment disinfection
☐ Protocols for managing infectious symptoms while minimizing trauma
Section 5: Behavioral Health and Psychosocial Support Area
☐ Quiet, calm space away from high-traffic areas
☐ Staff trained in trauma-informed approaches with children
☐ Visual aids, fidget items, and calming activities available
☐ Privacy for one-on-one support or group coping sessions
☐ Clear, developmentally appropriate communication tools for children in crisis
Section 6: Feeding/Nutrition Area
☐ Designated spaces for feeding children of all ages.
☐ Access to refrigeration and handwashing stations that are child appropriate.
☐ Safe storage for all food including formula, baby food, and allergen-free options
☐ Seating appropriate for children and caregivers
☐ Adult supervision during all meal and snack times
Section 7: Restrooms and Hygiene Stations
☐ Located near areas with children and have visible signage
☐ Accessible to children of all ages, with child-sized features when possible
☐ Changing tables with sanitizing supplies and waste disposal
☐ PPE and hand hygiene stations adjacent to restroom entry/exit
Section 8: Transition and Release
☐ Secured child release area with custody verification protocols
☐ Visual and verbal ID matching between child and caregiver
☐ Trained staff or caseworkers to support reunification discussions
☐ Privacy and emotional support available for high-stress releases
☐ Documentation maintained for all child releases or transitions

A downloadable version of this appendix is available here.