What is a key worker in an early years setting?

When visiting one of our settings, you may hear the term 'the key worker' or 'the key person' a lot. But what does that mean? We have done a small FAQ about key persons and their role.

What is a key person?

A key person is someone that takes on the role of the main carer of a small group of children at the setting. They provide a secure base for the child by being a kind, responsible, and trustworthy figure in the life of that child. A key person is a named member of staff with responsibilities for a small group of children who helps those children in the group feel safe and cared for.

What if my child's key worker is off on holiday or sick?

At Hopscotch, we embed this approach into our day-to-day practice. We also implement a 'Co-Key person' so that if your child's key person is off, there is an additional person who knows your child and their needs just as well.

Is it only the key person that will interact and play with my child?

No, all staff will engage, play and care for your child. The key person is a person your child shows a particularly strong bond with. This person will do most of their observations and their assessments. Where possible, they will be doing most of your child's care such as nappies or toileting, but other staff may do this from time to time also.

Why does the key person matter?

Children thrive from a base of loving and secure relationships. Attachments are the emotional bonds that young children develop with parents and other carers such as their key person. Children with strong early attachments cry less when separated. They engage in more pretend play and sustain attention for longer. Being emotionally attached to such an adult helps the child feel secure that the person they depend on is there for them. When children feel safe they are more inclined to try things out and be more independent. They are confident to express their ideas and feelings and feel good about themselves. Attachment influences a child’s immediate all-round development and future relationships.
Our mission is to ensure that every Hopscotch child thrives in their early years journey with us. Many of our children start with us in the baby room and progress through to waddlers, toddlers and then preschool. At each stage of your child's development, they will be provided with the very best care from our team. 
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​We hope you've found this FAQ useful. If you have any additional questions, please don't hesitate to speak to a member of our team.