How to Handle Problems with a Child Care Provider

When leaving children in daycare, parents are entrusting the provider with their care and safety and as a result there must be a certain level of trust. Regardless of how safe the parents believe their children are while under the providers care, it is still crucial to pay close attention to any potential signs of trouble and to understand how to best handle any problems when or if they should arise. 

• Don't avoid or ignore the problem. If as a parent you feel uncomfortable with a situation, action or even tone of voice, you should not second guess your feelings of concern or trivialize it as being a one-time occurrence. Ignoring a potential problem to avoid confrontation or because of discomfort may result in it becoming worse or potentially harming your child.


• Talk with your child if they are old enough to communicate fears or problems they might be having while with the daycare provider. If your child is not old enough to express himself, pay close attention for unusual behavior when dropping him off or picking him up.  


• Make an appointment and talk to the provider about your concerns. If you only suspect a non-physical problem or if you have questions about a certain type of behavior tell the provider about it and give them an opportunity to explain. Do not yell or accuse the provider of anything so that you have a better chance of mutually solving the problem.


• If the provider is a part of a childcare center, talk with the supervisor or the head of the center. This is important if you have already talked with the person who is in direct contact with your child and the issues are not being resolved. Discuss your concerns clearly and let her know that you talked with the daycare provider directly prior to your meeting. 


• If you feel that your child is unsafe in the presence of the childcare provider remove them immediately. Contact the state licensing agency in charge of day care providers and, if warranted, the local authorities.