Although the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic is over, its effects are still reverberating across the world. The U.S. childcare system is just one example. The number of childcare providers in America was already declining before 2020. Over the last three years, over 8,800 childcare centers closed and nearly 7,000 licensed family childcare programs.
Thanks to staffing shortages and lack of regulation or oversight, parents often pay more than 20 percent of their household income on potentially unsafe childcare. Today, it’s tough—sometimes even impossible—for parents to find affordable, safe daycare programs.
How to tell whether childcare is safe
Even if your childcare options are limited, you can research the facility and keep a close eye on the program. Try to begin your search as early as possible to ensure you have enough time to make an informed choice.
When researching a facility, investigate state licensing requirements. Consider contacting a referral agency and ask about whether there have been any complaints or violations.
Next, visit each potential facility, observe classes and talk to the care providers. What is the adult-to-child ratio? What kind of qualifications do the providers offer? Is the facility accredited? What is the turnover rate?
Ideally, a childcare provider or facility should have:
- License and registration with local government agencies
- Early childhood education and training
- CPR certification
- Strong transportation safety policies (car/booster seats and seatbelts required)
- Strong food and food allergy policies
- Medication administration policies
- Medical emergency protocol
- A secured facility, including safe outdoor areas
- Caregiver continuing education requirements
If your child has special needs, be sure to inquire as to whether the program has experience dealing with those needs and policies to address them.
What to do if your child is injured at daycare
Once your child starts attending daycare, the best way to keep them safe is to take an active role in their care. Meet all of the providers, especially when someone new joins the caregiver team, and ask questions to stay updated on the latest news, policies and procedures.
If your child is injured at daycare, seek medical attention immediately and document the injuries with photos, video and written descriptions. Daycares in Ohio are required to fill out and provide an incident/injury report after serious events: save that report and any other documentation you receive. Once your child’s condition is stable, call the Law Offices of Tim Misny to find out if you have a claim. You may be entitled to compensation for your child’s injuries and associated expenses.
Talk to an Ohio personal injury attorney today
The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you with your childcare injury claim. If you or a loved one were injured due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (800) 556-4769 so that I can evaluate your case right away.
