As parents, nothing is more important than the safety and well-being of our children. But for parents of children with disabilities or medical needs, the decision to entrust their care to others can feel overwhelming—especially when statistics show that children with disabilities are at least three times more likely to be abused or neglected than their peers without disabilities.
This stark reality calls for more proactive measures when selecting and partnering with daycare providers. To help ease your mind and make this process smoother, here are four actionable ways to work together with your child’s daycare and ensure your little one is in good hands.
1. Communicate Your Child’s Needs Clearly
When your child has specific medical needs, allergies, or uses special equipment, it’s essential that the daycare staff is fully informed and prepared. For example, if your child needs an EpiPen for severe allergies, make sure the daycare knows how and when to administer it. Provide detailed instructions on medications, the use of feeding tubes, mobility aids, or any other unique accommodations your child may need. Ensure staff are trained and confident in handling these responsibilities. If your child has sensory sensitivities, let the staff know which situations might trigger stress and how best to soothe your child. For example, you could create a laminated card with essential information such as medication schedules, emergency contacts, and any "calming techniques" that work for your child. Keep this card in your child's backpack or provide it to staff at the daycare.
2. Tour the Facility More Than Once
Before enrolling your child in daycare or preschool, schedule visits at different times of the day. Observing how the staff interacts with all children, including those with special needs, can give you insight into the daily routine and level of care provided. For children with disabilities or medical needs, it's crucial to verify that the facility is physically accessible and safe. Ask specific questions: Do the caregivers know how to handle medical devices, like insulin pumps or hearing aids? Do they have experience working with children who may have limited verbal communication skills? Are there accessible bathrooms or quiet areas for children who need a sensory break?
3. Establish a Communication Routine
Staying informed about your child’s experience at daycare is key to ensuring they are happy and safe. Create a communication routine that fits your schedule, whether that’s a daily check-in via text or a written log of your child’s day. Some daycares provide apps or digital platforms where parents can receive real-time updates about their child's meals, naps, and activities. For children with medical needs, this is an ideal way to stay updated on their care without waiting until pickup time. Inquire if your daycare offers this service, or establish an agreed-upon method with the staff. In the past we’ve seen parents of children with Type 1 diabetes work with daycare staff to receive hourly text updates on her child’s blood sugar levels, ensuring that she could address any concerns in real time.
4. Develop an Emergency Plan
Emergencies can happen at any time, whether it’s a medical crisis or an unexpected natural disaster. Developing a solid emergency plan with the daycare is crucial. Work with the daycare to create a comprehensive plan that covers what to do if your child has a medical emergency, such as an asthma attack or allergic reaction. Make sure the staff is trained to respond appropriately, including knowing where your child's medication is stored and how to use it. The emergency plan should also include evacuation procedures, particularly if your child has mobility issues. Ask how the daycare would ensure your child is safely evacuated, and what accommodations are made for children with different needs during these situations.
By taking these steps, you can feel more confident that your child is in a safe, nurturing environment where their needs are fully understood and supported. Being proactive, open, and consistent with the daycare staff helps ensure that they are equipped to provide the best possible care for your child. We are here for you - you know where to find us.
Here's to a safe, responsive and supportive school year!
-Paige
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