Every child deserves a safe environment to grow and learn, and it is the parent’s responsibility to find such an environment. At a minimum, a safe environment includes childcare workers who are background checked, competent, and caring, and each classroom should be clean and child-proofed.
How do you know whether your childcare facility is safe for your child? The best way is to ensure the facility is licensed.
What Is a Childcare License?
The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services will license a childcare facility when it meets the basic requirements for:
- Staff accreditation
- Safety
- Sanitization
- Nutrition
A daycare or childcare facility must renew its license every year. Operating a daycare without certification or a lapsed license is illegal and the director is subject to penalties.
The Importance of Licensure
Each of these regulations is vital for your child to be safe and thrive in a childcare facility.
For instance:
- Staff Accreditation: All staff needs regular training on childcare and safety regulations. Well-intentioned but ignorant workers should not be responsible children.
- Safety: The building needs to pass a safety inspection and needs to have appropriate medical and safety devices available. Additionally, shelves must be anchored to the wall, toys must not be a choking hazard, and first aid equipment must be readily available.
- Sanitation: The facility must be cleaned throughout the day, workers must wash their hands after changing a diaper, and there should be regular inspections for mold or termites.
- Nutrition: If your child receives breakfast, lunch, and snacks at the facility, it’s crucial that the daycare offer optimal foods for growing children so your child doesn’t miss out on vital nutrients.
Bright Start Louisville Goes the Extra Mile for Safety
At Bright Start, you don’t have to wonder if your child is in a safe environment. Not only does Bright Start have a Kentucky state license, but we go above and beyond state requirements to ensure your child’s safety.
We carefully monitor visitors to ensure no one unauthorized enters the building. Our small class sizes help cut down the spread of illnesses and allow children to receive quality care and attention from teachers. Finally, we pride ourselves on our nutritious menu that meets health standards and tastes good, too!
Bright Start Louisville offers exceptional childcare to children six weeks to 12 years old. We’re proud to offer a fun and educational preschool program that prepares your child for kindergarten per state educational standards.
If you’re looking for excellent childcare that gives your child a head start in life, contact Bright Start Louisville today!