Use of Serrated Plastic Knife Set (Children Aged 2-11)

Bumbles Day Care > Team Zone > Records > Risk Benefit Assessments > Use of Serrated Plastic Knife Set (Children Aged 2-11)
Setting Group / Location Created by Date created
Seanna Strawberry
30/09/2024

Serrated plastic knives are often used in early childhood settings to allow children to participate in age-appropriate, supervised activities such as food preparation, craft, and sensory play. While these knives are designed to be child-friendly, they still pose certain risks. This assessment will focus on identifying and mitigating these risks to ensure children can safely engage in activities that promote fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and confidence in handling kitchen tools. The use of these knives should be closely supervised to prevent injury.

  • Cuts and abrasions: Even though serrated plastic knives are designed for child use, they can still cause minor cuts if not used properly, especially by younger children.
  • Choking hazard: Broken pieces of the knife or small objects used in conjunction with the knives (e.g., food or craft materials) could pose a choking risk for children, particularly those under the age of 5.
  • Improper handling: Children may misuse the knives, either by attempting to use them in an unsafe manner (e.g., pointing, hitting, or throwing) or by using them for unintended purposes, increasing the risk of injury to themselves or others.
  • Cross-contamination: If the knives are used in food preparation activities without proper cleaning between uses, there is a potential for cross-contamination, which could lead to foodborne illnesses.
  • Allergic reactions: If children are cutting allergenic foods, there is a risk of triggering allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
  • Supervision: Close adult supervision is required at all times when children are using serrated plastic knives. Adults should model safe usage and monitor children for proper handling.
  • Appropriate Age Group: Ensure that only children who are developmentally ready (typically 2 and older) are given access to the knives. Younger children should use them under more intense supervision.
  • Child-friendly Design: Only child-friendly, serrated plastic knives specifically designed for young children should be used to minimise the risk of cuts or injury.
  • Training: Children should be taught how to safely handle knives, including how to hold them correctly and how to cut away from their bodies.
  • Use of Soft Materials: Limit cutting activities to softer foods initially; like bananas, cucumbers, or bread to reduce the likelihood of injury.
  • Cleaning and Hygiene: Ensure knives are cleaned between uses, particularly in food-related activities, to prevent cross-contamination and allergic reactions.
  • Emergency Procedures: First aid should be available on-site, and staff should be trained to handle minor injuries such as cuts or abrasions.
  • Development of Fine Motor Skills: The use of plastic knives encourages the development of hand strength, dexterity, and hand-eye coordination, important milestones in child development.
  • Building Independence and Confidence: Engaging in activities such as cutting fruit or vegetables with a plastic knife allows children to gain a sense of independence and build self-confidence in their abilities.
  • Introduction to Food Safety and Hygiene: Teaching children about the proper handling of utensils and the importance of hygiene when preparing food promotes early awareness of food safety practices.
  • Enhancing Social and Communication Skills: Group activities involving the use of plastic knives foster social interaction, cooperation, and communication among children as they work together or take turns.
  • Educational Engagement: Activities involving the use of plastic knives provide practical, hands-on learning experiences. They can be incorporated into learning about nutrition, food science, or even cultural exploration.