Don’t be in the dark when it comes to child care

Debby Schamber
The Orange Leader

August 01, 2008 11:30 pm

— With the start of school right around the corner, officials with the Child Care Licensing division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services are urging parents to not be in the dark about child care.
Many parents are looking for new day options for their preschoolers and officials are asking them to do their homework before putting their children in someone else’s hands.
TDFPS officials unveiled a statewide public awareness campaign to educate parents on the dangers of illegal childcare. The “Don’t Be In the Dark About Child Care” campaign is designed to not only make parents aware, but to encourage unlicensed operators to step into the light and get licensed and regulated.
While in the care of an unlicensed day care provider 13 children died in 2007 and another 18 children died in 2006. The year 2006 proved to be a devastating years because of 18 children dying while in the custody of child care. While in 2005, 10 children died and there were eight who died in 2004.
“People research what car they are going to buy, but not the child care where they are going to put their children,” said Shari Pulliam of the TDFPS.
An example of the dangers of the underground operations came to light when Williamson County grand jury indicted a woman for injury and child endangerment. The charges stemmed from a TDFPS investigation. She had been operating an illegal day care operation and was showing the parents a fake day care license.
“Child care operations are going underground,” said Diana Spiser, DFPS Assistant Commissioner for Child Care Licensing. “Illegal operations may seem attractive. They may be smaller and less expensive.”
In Texas the regulation of child care begins with listing or registration for small operations located in homes. The degree of scrutiny increases with the size of the operation.
“Cheaper isn’t always best,” Pulliam said.
Information on registering a day care can be done at a TDFPS office. To get licensure an application must be filled out. A one day orientation class is required.
Applicants at the orientation learn about the minimum licensed standard rules and regulations. Some of these include : CPR and first aid, safety and sanitation, and the inspections of the health department, fire department and a plumber.
Listed homes must simply submit an application and pass background checks. They are not inspected unless a report is received alleging abuse or neglect.
Registered homes must meet training requirements and pass background checks. Registered homes are inspected every one to three years.
Requirements for larger facilities include orientation, regular training, adherence to published standards and inspections every five to 12 months.
Background checks for child care staff are required no matter what the size of the operation.
Parents or facility operators wishing more information on registered facilities or regulations can search the database at www.txchildsearch.org. or call 1-866-TX-CHILD.

Reach this reporter at 409-883-3571, Ext. 2613, or dschamber@orangeleader.com