Why Language Matters in Early Years - Addressing the ‘Baby Blind Spot’ in Safeguarding

In July, The NSPCC highlighted the risk of overlooking babies (under 2s) in safeguarding policy and practice due to common language that refers only to “children and young people.” This can lead to a “baby blind spot,” where the unique needs and vulnerabilities of babies are ignored.

Key Points:

• Babies are a distinct group: Early years are uniquely vulnerable due to total dependence on caregivers and limited ability to communicate. Safeguarding them requires specialist observation and interpretation of non-verbal cues.

• Language matters: Using “babies, children and young people” in policy, guidance, and practice helps keep babies’ needs visible and emphasises their specific risks.

• Current impact: Many safeguarding frameworks and services still overlook babies, prioritising older children whose issues are more visible or better understood. This can lead to under-resourced services for infants and missed signs of abuse or neglect.

• Change needed: Professionals and services must not only update language but also ensure practice and provision are equipped to recognise and meet babies’ needs—especially for those at risk.

The full blog can be found here.

Safeguarding Network have Early Years specialism with bespoke packages of training available - enquire here.