to be concerned that reception children have to wear badges on string round their neck?

[skooltroublemaker]

That's it really. DD started reception class last week and all the children have made badges with their name and photo on. But rather than being stuck or pinned to the clothing, they are on long (60cm) strings to be worn round the neck. (These wouldn't give or snap if they were caught or twisted.)

AIBU to think this is dangerous with a group of 45 4 year olds and maybe 5 teachers/TAs? They are not allowed to wear them in the playground, but they are allowed into outside play areas and reception contains several rooms.

What is the point of them? I can't see a problem per se, but my DD is now 9.4 so well out of the danger zone (I hope).

Well, I wouldn't like it.

don't know what you can do though.

And 45 kids in a class seems an awful lot - is that just one class or two?

YANBU.

I can't understand why anybody, students or staff, in schools wears things around their neck- it's just an unnecessary risk, IMO.

Ask them if they've done a risk assessment. I promise you they will disappear overnight.

It's two classes but they are all mixed up most of the time.

And the point is (I presume) so the teachers can remeber everyone's name. (I would hope that they could learn everyone's name, but there you go...)

Thanks, tethersend - I like the words 'risk assessment' - they could come in very useful.

Ask to see a copy of the risk assessment.

That's the kind of thing I'm worried about, Euphemia.

I'll ask for a copy of the risk assessment tomorrow. (Although, I'm trying to not make myself too unpopular with the teachers early on.)

Euphemia - Reception children dont have their own desks, usually, so nameplates on desks won't work.

That's precisely my worry though - there are not enough staff to a) teach b) watch all the kids in all the different areas. DD has already had an accident that nobody saw (and her friends had to go to get help). I know I'm being a bit precious, but name badges would be a better plan (that's what the nursery used last year).

You are not being precious - I have a real thing about kids and things round their necks.
Mention it, please - you never know when a child might get the string caught round something like a door handle.
Something like a necklace etc. would break fairly easily but you say the string they are using wouldn't?

A parent has probably complained about badges though. You can imagine the thread "Aibu to be worried about reception children poorly supervised with sharp pins?"

Giddyup - You're probably right.

Actually, DD did get cut on her badge last year, but at least it wasn't lethal. It's a risk I'm prepared to take.

Far better are the security pass lanyards that many (rail) companies use nowadays. They're available from most stationers and have a breakaway clip at the back. Mention that and the words "risk assessment" and job done!

YANBU, you can pick up those lanyards that pull undone for pittance, even free some places.

Surely a nice big sticky label is the way forward; all grubby by the end of the day and covered fluff from new school jumpers?