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It goes without saying that when looking for the best daycare, the safety aspect of it is one of the major concerns. However, beyond academics and fun activities, a daycare must strive to always ensure the child’s safety and protection. In this regard, parents ask the right questions relative to whether the daycare upholds the safety of the children as a priority.
Below are five important safety questions every parent should ask to be sure the child is safe and protected.
1. What Are Your Staff Qualifications and Training?
One of the important factors that can greatly affect safety as well as the experience for your child is daycare personnel’ quality. Qualified caregivers not only provide careful supervision but are also able to offer assistance during emergencies.
Why It Matters:
As mentioned in the publication by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) – through proper staffing, the safety of a location increases while at the same time, encouraging provision of quality care. Proper training means caregivers can recognize hazard, perform first aid, and establish regulated safe environments for children in a daycare.
What to Look For:
Case Study:
In California, daycare staff performed regular surveillance of children, and during snack time, one of the children choked. Because of a staff member’s response, the child was able to survive. One of the reasons why such saving acts take place is because all staff of such facilities complete CPR classes as part of their training (Source: American Red Cross).
2. What Is Your Child-to-Staff Ratio?
The ratio of children to caregivers has a direct bearing on the supervision of the child. The lower the number of children to staff the less possible for something to go wrong and more problems or accidents will be attended to.
Industry Standards:
As per WAC guidlines:
Questions to Ask:
Real Example:
In a study conducted in Illinois, it was reported that daycares observing the recommended ratios as indicated the AAP had 30% less cases of parents being informed of incidents that needed their attention as compared to childcare centers that did not observe this ratio (Source: Early Childhood Research Quarterly).
3. Can You Describe Your Emergency Preparedness Plan?
Since daycare is responsible for providing safety to its children, emergencies can never be avoided, making it extremely important to customize emergency preparedness at every level. Parents should always inquire concerning steps taken whenever fire alarms are activated, natural tragedies, and medical emergencies.
Key Elements of a Good Plan:
Example from Starlight Academy:
At Starlight Academy, children participate in regular practice drills of evacuation procedures which are planned at least once a month like fire drills. Also each classroom has an emergency supply kit, inclusive of water, snacks, flashlights and basic medical supplies.
Why It Matters:
According to Federal Emergency Management Agency, FEMA, practice drills along with emergency plans that are specific reduce anxiety and helps increase the chances of survival in critical situations.
4. How Do You Handle Health and Hygiene Practices?
Keeping good hygiene is very important to stop sickness from spreading, especially in places like daycare centers where kids often share toys, snacks, and play areas.
Hygiene Protocols to Inquire About:
Case Study:
A daycare in Seattle saw a 40% drop in flu cases after they started making kids wash their hands more often and cleaned the most used areas every day(Source: CDC).
Starlight Academy’s Approach:
Starlight Academy makes sure all toys are cleaned every day, and kids learn how to wash their hands the right way as part of their daily routine. During flu season, they clean more often and give parents tips on how to keep everyone healthy.
5. What Security Measures Are in Place to Control Access to the Facility?
A daycare’s ability to control who comes in is very important for keeping kids safe. Parents should feel sure that their child is safe from people who shouldn’t be there.
Key Security Features to Check:
Real-Life Example:
A daycare in Florida stopped a possible problem by checking IDs carefully for everyone who visits. The staff’s hard work made sure only allowed people could go inside (Source: National Child Care Association).
Starlight Academy’s Safety Protocols:
At Starlight Academy, a secure entry system makes sure only parents and approved people can get in. Visitors are always with a staff member, and cameras watch common areas for extra safety.
Bonus Question: How Do You Involve Parents in Safety Practices?
Although it might not be a typical question, it’s important to know how the daycare includes parents in keeping kids safe. Good communication goes both ways, and parents who are well-informed can help keep their children safe better.
Examples of Parent Involvement:
Conclusion: Finding the Best Daycare in Burien WA
Finding the best daycare for your child isn’t just about finding a nice place—it’s about making sure your child is safe, cared for, and supported to grow. By asking these five important safety questions, parents can make smart choices and feel good about their daycare decision.
At Starlight Academy, we’re proud to be the best childcare in Burien WA, giving parents peace of mind with strong safety measures and clear communication.
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