Tagging systems similar in design to the anti-theft tags used in clothes shops have been installed in at least 40 nurseries and creches in the UK. Defendants of tagging argue that it provides peace of mind for parents. But Judith Gillespie, policy development manager with the Scottish Parent Teacher Council, has attacked the idea.
'I do not like children being treated like clothes in a shop. I find that offensive,' she said. 'It is also not necessary, because security in nurseries is totally adequate. I think these systems are building on parental paranoia and exploiting it.'
Megan Bruns, projects co-ordinator at child safety charity Kidscape, described the idea as a 'gimmick'. She said, 'We should not be treating children like endangered animals on a nature reserve. If a nursery takes proper safety precautions it is not necessary to tag them. It gives a false sense of security.'
But Inez Murray, owner of Four Seasons Nursery in Glasgow, defended the use of tags in her setting. She said, 'The children's safety is of paramount importance and our own parents are very supportive. The tags are small and unobtrusive and allow the children to move freely throughout their rooms.'
Belhaven Nursery in Glasgow introduced the 90 per month Little Cherub tagging system last year. Nursery teacher Brooks Harvey said, 'We are not using this system to replace vigilance or instead of professionalism and care.
'The technology was cheap and available and the parents and children are happy with it. There is a busy road outside and this gives everyone extra peace of mind.'