At Boogie Beat, keeping children safe sits at the very heart of everything we do.
While families often see us as the fun, musical, storytelling session that sparks imagination and joy, behind the songs, props, and movement is a team of trained professionals who take their safeguarding responsibilities incredibly seriously.
One of the ways we support nursery safeguarding practice is by working in alignment with the SIMOA policy — often introduced to children through SIMOA the purple elephant — a gentle, child-friendly way to talk about keeping safe.
What Does SIMOA Stand For?
S – Safety
Ensuring children feel physically and emotionally safe in their environment.
I – Inspect
Being aware of children’s presentation, wellbeing, and any visible changes.
M – Monitor
Keeping a watchful eye on patterns, behaviours, or emerging concerns over time.
O – Observe
Noticing the small but important details — body language, mood, interaction.
A – Act
Taking appropriate action and communicating concerns through the correct safeguarding channels.
SIMOA reminds us that safeguarding isn’t a one-person job.
It’s a shared responsibility.
Our Role as Visiting Practitioners
As Boogie Beat leaders, we are often only in a nursery for a short window of time — sometimes just 30 minutes.
But that fresh pair of eyes can be incredibly valuable.
Because we move between rooms, settings, and groups of children, we may notice small things that busy staff — understandably — haven’t yet seen during the morning rush.
For example:
- A child repeatedly pulling at their ear, possibly indicating discomfort or an earache
- A child who seems unusually withdrawn compared to previous weeks
- Changes in energy levels or engagement
- A bump, mark, or visible change that staff may wish to log or monitor
These observations do not automatically indicate a safeguarding concern.
But SIMOA reminds us that good practice is about sharing information — even small things — so that nursery teams have the fullest picture of a child’s wellbeing.
Communication Is Key
At Boogie Beat, we pride ourselves on strong partnership working with nursery teams.
If we notice anything unusual — no matter how minor — we always:
- Feed back to room staff
- Share observations professionally and discreetly
- Follow the nursery’s safeguarding and reporting procedures
- Respect confidentiality at all times
This collaborative approach ensures that children remain at the centre of everything we do.
Because safeguarding works best when everyone communicates openly and respectfully.
Creating Safe, Trusted Spaces for Children
Our sessions are built on connection, trust, and emotional safety.
Through music and storytelling, children learn to:
- Express feelings
- Build confidence
- Develop communication skills
- Feel seen and heard
This emotional safety is just as important as physical safety — and it aligns closely with the ethos behind SIMOA.
When children feel secure, they are more likely to engage, communicate needs, and build trusting relationships with the adults around them.
Safeguarding Is Everyone’s Responsibility
SIMOA is a powerful reminder that keeping children safe is not limited to safeguarding leads or management teams.
It belongs to all of us:
- Nursery practitioners
- Visiting specialists
- Activity providers
- Volunteers
- And wider professionals working with children
At Boogie Beat, we take that responsibility incredibly seriously.
We ensure our team are safeguarding-aware, vigilant, and confident in communicating with settings whenever needed.
Because even in a short session, we have a role to play.
Working Together to Keep Children Safe
We are proud to work in partnership with nurseries who place safeguarding at the forefront of their practice.
By aligning with policies like SIMOA, we strengthen that shared commitment — ensuring that every child we meet is not only engaged and inspired…
…but safe, supported, and cared for.
Written by Mairi Curle owner franchisee of Boogie Beat Edinburgh, Mid and East Lothian
