4 important Daycare Safety Issues

Having been a parent I very well understand that most conscientious parents would like to care for their kids 24/7, but there are circumstances when they have to leave them in someone else ‘s care like a nanny, babysitter or a daycare center. We as parents would surely like to be proactive and question the provider’s safety procedures. Some experts share their thoughts about the safety issues that day care providers and parents should be on the lookout for.

4 safety issues pertaining to daycare centers:

1) The daycare center should have adequate supervision:

This is very important in young children; it is necessary that they are in sight and supervised always.

Parents should ask and find out the center group size and the caregiver-to-child ratio. They should also find out how the teachers transition kids from one area to another and how they do name and face checks to make sure everyone is accounted for. Parents should also drop in or volunteer from time to time to make sure things are managed properly.

The providers should keep a low child-adult ratio with the most   ideal being 1:3 for infants and young toddlers, 1:6 for older toddlers and 1:9 for preschoolers.

2) It is very essential that the staff is well trained:

This is one of the best ways to improve safety, prevent injury and have sound health and safety policies.

The parents should talk to the Center Manager about the training policy and also ask to see the copies of the staff’s CPR and first aid cards. It is also necessary to ensure that the staff is following rules for health and safety.

Providers should make sure that there is a regular training plan for the staff and they are also trained in pediatric CPR and first-aid. At least one staff with CPR and first aid certification should always be on duty.

3) Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS): 

Experts are of the opinion that though the rate of SIDS has decreased at home it is increasing in daycare.

So it is necessary for parents to ask the daycare if they follow safe sleep practices and policies.

It is necessary for providers to make sure that the babies are put to sleep on their backs. It is also advised that they do not place bumper pads, fluffy blankets or toys in cribs and they avoid soft bedding.

4) Poisons and toxic substances should not be accessible in daycares:

Experts like Child Care Aware are of the opinion that accidental poisoning is a leading cause of injury and death among young children.

So it is best for parents to ask where the medicines and cleaning products are kept and whether they are under lock and key.

It is also essential that providers store labeled medicines, household cleaning products and all hazardous substances in locked, childproof cabinets. They should avoid storing food and cleaning supplies together.

While it's important to investigate the above problem areas, always do a gut check; keep looking for another daycare if things don’t seem right even if a facility is licensed, accredited or recommended.

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