As parents, entrusting our children to a daycare facility and making sure all daycare safety elements are ticked is one of the most significant decisions we make. In Georgia, where over 450,000 children attend daycare centers annually, the importance of choosing a safe, compliant facility cannot be overstated. While most childcare centers maintain high standards of care, daycare statistics show that approximately one out of every 10 children under the age of six had an emergency room visit or hospital stay (ER/HD) related to a daycare injury.
The consequences of choosing an unsafe or non-compliant daycare can be devastating. From inadequate supervision to unsafe environments, the risks range from minor incidents to severe injuries that can impact a child’s well-being for years to come. This is why performing thorough due diligence before selecting a daycare facility isn’t just recommended—it’s essential.
Many parents don’t realize that they have access to valuable resources and tools that can help them verify a daycare’s safety compliance. Understanding how to access and utilize these resources effectively can make the difference between choosing a facility that prioritizes children’s safety and one that cuts dangerous corners.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the crucial steps of verifying a daycare’s safety compliance, empowering you to make an informed decision about your child’s care and well-being.
Steps of verifying a daycare’s safety compliance
Start With State Licensing Verification
Before considering any daycare facility, parents should verify its licensing status through Georgia’s Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL). A valid license indicates that the facility meets basic state requirements for child safety and care. Visit DECAL’s website or call their hotline to check if the facility has any current violations or a history of safety concerns.
Research Online Resources and Reviews
Beyond basic licensing, dig deeper into the facility’s history:
- Check DECAL’s Quality Rated system to see if the daycare participates in this voluntary quality assessment program
- Review inspection reports from the past 2-3 years
- Look for patterns in parent reviews and feedback
- Research any news coverage about the facility
- Verify their Better Business Bureau and Google rating and complaint history
Schedule an In-Person Visit
Nothing replaces a thorough in-person inspection. During your visit:
- Observe the staff-to-child ratios in different age groups
- Check security measures, including entry systems and pickup procedures
- Look for posted emergency evacuation plans and first aid certifications
- Inspect playground equipment and safety surfaces
- Notice cleanliness standards, especially in food preparation areas
- Watch how staff interact with children and manage behavioral issues
Ask About Staff Qualifications and Training
A daycare is only as good as its staff. Request information about:
- Background check procedures and frequency
- Staff education requirements
- Ongoing training programs
- CPR and first aid certifications
- Teacher turnover rates
- Substitute teacher policies
Review Safety Protocols
Request copies of the facility’s safety procedures, including:
- Emergency response plans
- Illness and injury protocols
- Medication administration policies
- Discipline guidelines
- Food safety procedures
- Nap time monitoring practices
Red Flags Parents Should Watch For
During your research and visits, stay alert for these warning signs that might indicate safety compliance issues:
Supervision Concerns
- Staff members distracted by phones or personal conversations
- Children left unattended, even briefly
- Overcrowded rooms or playgrounds
- Staff seeming overwhelmed or stressed
- Chaotic transitions between activities
- Inconsistent headcounts during activities
Facility Issues
- Broken or damaged equipment
- Unsecured cleaning supplies or medications
- Blocked emergency exits
- Dirty or unsanitary conditions
- Unlocked external doors
- Missing safety gates or barriers
- Expired fire extinguishers or first aid supplies
Administrative Red Flags
- Reluctance to share documentation
- High staff turnover
- Expired licenses or certifications
- Inconsistent communication
- Resistance to unannounced parent visits
- Vague answers about safety protocols
Steps to Take If You Discover Safety Violations
Document Everything
- Take dated photographs if possible
- Write detailed notes about what you observed
- Save copies of any relevant communication
- Keep records of when and to whom you reported concerns
Report Violations
- File a complaint with DECAL immediately
- Report serious safety violations to local authorities
- Contact the Georgia Department of Public Health if there are sanitation concerns
- Consider reaching out to your local consumer protection office
- Take Immediate Action
If you witness immediate dangers, report them to facility management
Remove your child from the facility if you believe they’re at risk
Contact other parents if there are systemic safety issues
Seek medical attention if your child has been injured
Consult with a daycare negligence attorney to understand your legal rights
Follow Up
- Monitor the facility’s response to reported violations
- Keep track of any corrective actions taken
- Stay in contact with regulatory authorities
- Document any retaliation or dismissive responses
Remember, being vigilant about daycare safety isn’t being overprotective—it’s being a responsible parent. Your child’s safety and well-being depend on your careful attention to these details.
Taking Action: Your Child’s Safety Comes First
Choosing and monitoring a daycare facility can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. By following the verification steps outlined in this guide, you’re taking crucial steps to protect your child’s safety and well-being. Remember that being thorough in your research isn’t being difficult—it’s being diligent.
Key Takeaways for Parents:
- Start your search early to avoid rushing into decisions
- Trust your instincts if something doesn’t feel right
- Keep detailed records of any concerns or incidents
- Stay involved with your child’s daycare experience through regular communication
- Don’t hesitate to speak up about safety concerns
- Know that you have the right to remove your child from an unsafe situation
Resources at Your Disposal:
If you discover safety violations or your child has been harmed due to daycare negligence, remember that Georgia law protects your rights as a parent. Our experienced Atlanta daycare negligence attorney Don Singleton is here to help you understand your legal options and fight for your child’s safety and well-being.
Contact our office today for a free consultation if you have concerns about daycare safety violations or negligence. Your child’s safety is our top priority, and we’re here to help you ensure they receive the care and protection they deserve.
