When it comes to finding a safe daycare, transparency should be at the top of your checklist. One of the biggest indicators of a quality childcare facility is how they approach parental access, and that’s exactly what we’re covering in Tip #6 of our 10 Tips for Finding a Safe Daycare guide.
What Is Parental Access?
Parental access means you’re welcome to visit the daycare at any time, without needing to call ahead or schedule an appointment. The safest daycares we’ve seen not only allow this, they encourage it.
Some even go above and beyond by offering observation spaces where you can watch your child’s classroom without disrupting their routine. This lets you check in on your child in real time and feel confident about their care.
What Should Parental Access Look Like?
Besides allowing unscheduled visits, a daycare should have solid communication systems. Ask these questions when evaluating a daycare:
- Do they use an app to send updates, pictures, or videos?
- Do you get a daily activity sheet summarizing meals, naps, and playtime?
- Are you informed in advance if there’s a substitute caregiver or any major change?
These details show that a daycare is committed to keeping you in the loop, which is crucial for your peace of mind.
What About Access to Records?
Another key part of transparency is access to your child’s records. This can include:
- Diaper change logs
- Feeding schedules
- Notes on behavior or milestones
If a daycare refuses to provide this information or claims the records were discarded, that’s a serious red flag. Poor record-keeping often signals poor management. And when your child’s care is at stake, that’s not something you can afford to overlook.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
If a daycare doesn’t allow drop-in visits, communicates inconsistently, or can’t provide care records, those are all red flags. These signs may indicate a lack of organization or transparency, two essential things in your child’s care.
Other red flags to look out for include:
- Staff who seem dismissive when you ask questions
- Missing or incomplete daily updates
- Changes in your child’s behavior that aren’t explained
If something feels off or you’re not getting clear answers, it might be time to consider other options.
Trust Your Gut—And Ask the Tough Questions
As a parent, your instincts are powerful. If something doesn’t sit right with you during a daycare visit or after speaking with staff, don’t ignore it. Trusting your gut is just as important as asking the right questions.
Make sure you’re asking:
- Can I drop in at any time?
- How will I receive updates about my child?
- Do I have access to records about my child’s care?
If the answers aren’t clear or the staff seems hesitant to respond, that daycare may not be the best fit for your family.
Contact The Button Law Firm
If you have concerns about a daycare’s lack of transparency or if your child was hurt while in someone else’s care, we’re here to help. Our team at The Button Law Firm has experience helping families hold daycares accountable when safety standards are not followed. With lawyers in Dallas, Houston, and Midland, we are ready to listen, fight for your family, and help your family move forward. Call us at 214-699-4409, email us at [email protected], or fill out a contact form for a free case evaluation.
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