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Concerns

Warning Signs of Poor Care

If you have a problem or concern with your child care, make time to speak with the director or provider as soon as possible. If you have serious concerns about your child’s health or well-being in the program, take immediate steps to protect your child. Most programs will have an “open-door” policy, where parents can visit the program at any time. As a parent, you should have access to your child at any time of the day.

Any patterns of disturbing events or reports from your child should never be ignored. If you still have concerns after speaking with your provider, you may choose to remove your child from your child care arrangement, and look for another program or provider.

If you suspect any type of emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, remove your child from care until the situation is investigated or resolved to your complete satisfaction. Remember to trust your instincts, and ask a lot of questions if you have strong concerns.

Here are some of the warning signs of poor care:

	Children left unattended
	Staff or providers are angry, rough, or moody with children or parents
	Too many children crowded into a small space
	Too few staff for the number for children present
	Infants restricted to cribs, playpens, walkers, or high chairs
	Noticeably dirty environment or children
	Poor sanitation practices, especially related to diapering and feeding
	Medications, poisons, or cleaning supplies stored improperly
	Broken toys or unsafe equipment
	High staff turnover
	Your child cries repeatedly and resists staying at child care after adjustment period is over
	Your child shows signs of emotional or physical stress
	Your child talks about anger, violence, fears, or secrets that are not age-appropriate
	Your child appears to be unusually afraid of one teacher or provider
	Your child shows a sudden intense preoccupation with sexual matters, and may “act out” with dolls or other children
	Your child appears to be very hungry or thirsty without cause

How to Register Complaints

Find out about the program’s procedures for handling parent complaints. There should be a clear set of guidelines that explain complaint procedures and advise parents that unresolved complaints be sent to the appropriate child care licensing agency.

If you have concerns about abuse or neglect, call 1-866-820-5437. They will listen to your concerns and investigate the situation. To report licensing concerns in this area, call DPHHS Quality Assurance Division Child Care Licensor at 262-9790.

For more Local, State, and National information, please visit our Related Links page.

This page last updated on Monday, November 13, 2006
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