Tips on how to choose quality, safe day care
As Bend police continue their investigation into the case of alleged child abuse case at a Bend day care facility, concerned parents want to make sure their children are safe.
“In the past, unfortunately, a few of these incidents have come up, very rare,” said Bend police Lt. Nick Parker said Tuesday. “And that’s what we’ve done is to conduct a full investigation.”
Although the child care operator, Nicole Johansen, has not been convicted of a crime and awaiting further court proceedings, parents in Central Oregon are understandably concerned.
One parent who asked to stay anonymous e-mailed us: “It has hit me very hard. Since then, I have had many feelings of guilt, regret, and remorse for sending my child to her.”
“Parents are really concerned right now, as far as where they can find quality and safe day care,” said Debi Smith, owner at the Cobblestone Children’s Center in Bend.
Experts say there are many ways to make sure you choose a good day care.
“The first thing is to start early,” said Karen Prow, program manager at NeighborImpact Child Care Resources. “Give yourself plenty of time to meet people and ask questions and do an on-site visit.”
NeighborImpact Child Care Resources helps parents make an informed decision. One important resource is the state child care Website, where you can check for prior complaints. In the case of Johansen, there had already been two complaints listed on the Website.
“I just feel it’s some really great protection for parents,” Smith said.
Day care operators like Smith feel that incidents like these shine a bad light on all providers. Cobblestone Children’s Center has many safety checks in place.
“It’s a big great process actually. They check all safety — sanitation comes in, fire marshal comes in,” Smith said.
Oregon’s Quality Rating and Improvement System is another way for parents to check on day care quality.
“As this program rolls out, I think the quality care that we already have is only getting better and better,” Prow said.
