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Creating Safety as a Foundation for Trust in Childcare – A Conversation with Rob Marcus
Rob Marcus, Founder of Arte Viva, Child Safety Ambassador, and Expert
Children need spaces where they can play, explore, and grow freely — without constant worry about injuries. Rob Marcus, child safety ambassador and founder of Arte Viva, talks in this interview about why child safety is not only about protection but also about freedom, and how early childhood centers can strengthen the trust of families with simple, thoughtful measures.
Mr. Marcus, you often emphasize a holistic approach to child safety. What do you mean by that?
Safety is not just a construction detail, it’s a mindset. Thoughtfully designed spaces not only protect children, they also create freedom for movement, play, and social interaction. Children who feel safe explore more confidently. Educators, in turn, can focus more on their relationships with children when they trust in the protective design of their environment. And organizations that invest in structural safety also strengthen the trust of families.
What does that look like in everyday childcare settings?
Often, small measures make a big difference. Finger guards, corner protectors, or padded pillars not only reduce the risk of injuries, they also make supervision easier. For me, they are more than just construction elements; they are a reflection of an attitude: We take children and their safety seriously.
Are there examples that show how effective such measures can be?
Yes, one striking example comes from the Netherlands. For many years, finger injuries were among the five most common causes of children being admitted to hospitals. After finger protection systems became mandatory, these accidents dropped by over 40%. It’s a clear demonstration of the power of preventive action.
Are there regulations or standards that guide child safety in buildings?
Yes, within the European Union there are safety standards and guidelines designed to reduce risks in childcare environments, for example, around door safety, sharp edges, and emergency exits. However, specific requirements can vary from country to country. That’s why it’s important for every institution to check their local regulations and ensure compliance with national building and safety standards. The goal everywhere is the same: to eliminate unpredictable risks that children cannot assess on their own and to create environments that are both safe and supportive for their development.
Which safety factors do you see as particularly important in early education environments?
First and foremost, finger guards on doors, because crushing injuries are both common and painful. Corner and edge protectors on furniture come next, along with well-designed outdoor areas that protect children from hazards while encouraging movement and exploration. Of course, fire safety measures and unobstructed escape routes are also part of every safe facility.
What motivates you personally to dedicate so many years to this topic?
As a father, I know how vulnerable children are and how important it is to protect them, without limiting their freedom. Through my work with educators and childcare providers around the world, I’ve seen that the challenges may differ, but the goal is always the same: creating environments that combine safety and freedom. If our products and concepts can contribute to that, that’s the greatest success for me.
Let’s create a safer world for children
For over 25 years, Arte Viva has been developing safety solutions for childcare centers, schools, and kindergartens. Our products help reduce common accident risks — from trapped fingers to collisions with edges and pillars — making everyday life safer for both children and educators. Today, Arte Viva solutions are used in more than 65 countries worldwide.
Our key safety solutions for childcare facilities:
- Finger Guards: Prevent crushing injuries on doors.
- Corner and Edge Protectors: Shield children from bumps against furniture and walls.
- Pillar and Wall Protection: Soften impacts against columns and corners.
- Radiator Covers: Prevent burns and ensure hygienic surfaces.
- Acoustic Solutions: Reduce noise and create calmer learning environments.
- Child-Safe Mirrors: Shatterproof, educationally valuable alternatives to glass.
Learn more about Arte Viva’s safety solutions for childcare environments at www.arteviva.com