Parents want the best care for their children during their daycare hours. A key part of quality care is how staff watch and interact with children. Asking the right questions about supervision can help you pick the safest daycare for your child.
What is daycare supervision?
Daycare supervision means having trained staff who actively watch and respond to children’s needs. In Florida, the law requires specific staff-to-child ratios based on age groups. For example, daycares must have one staff member for every four infants. Good supervision also includes clear rules for watching kids during activities, playtime and rest periods.
Key questions to ask about supervision
Before you pick a daycare, ask these critical questions about their staff and safety rules:
- What are your staff-to-child ratios for each age group?
- How do you track children as they move between rooms?
- What are your rules for playground safety?
- How do you watch children during nap time?
- Who supervises bathroom breaks?
- What happens when a staff member calls in sick?
- How do you handle busy drop-off and pick-up times?
- What kind of safety training do staff members get?
A good daycare will give precise answers about their safety plans. They should also show you how they implement these plans each day.
Finding help with daycare safety
The answers to these questions can tell you a lot about a daycare’s commitment to child safety. Look for direct, detailed responses and written policies you can review. Consider this a warning sign if a daycare gives vague answers or won’t share its safety rules.
Your child’s safety at daycare is too important to leave to chance. If you believe that your child or someone you know is experiencing sexual abuse at the daycare, act fast. Speak with a lawyer who specializes in such cases. They can help you understand your rights and ensure your child gets the protection they deserve.