Parents consider several criteria when exploring options for daycare in Chicago, and with good reason. Finding a daycare facility that provides peace of mind can help parents focus on having a successful and positive day at work or running errands.
When paired with a high-quality curriculum, the safety and security measures form an ideal foundation for a child’s education and growth. Read on to learn more about the security measures you should look for when seeking the right daycare for your little one.
Physical and access security
Secured entrances and controlled access
A secure facility starts with secure entrances. The daycare should have entrances featuring several layers of access control, including keyless entry via keypads, to ensure doors remain locked to unauthorized visitors. That controlled access should extend to different parts of the daycare facility, including the playground and supply closets.
The best security measures include biometric layers that keep exterior doors locked until the program confirms through unique identifiers that the individual at the door is authorized to enter. When paired with the KISI app, parents can drop their young ones off and trust that they will be safe and sound until the designated pick-up time arrives.
Perimeter security
A secure perimeter is another layer of security that a daycare should have to protect its students and staff. Additions that daycare facilities can use include enhanced lighting, fencing around the facility and playground, and burglar alarms that are triggered when unauthorized visitors attempt to enter the facility’s grounds.
Security can be further enhanced by investing in CCTV cameras. Those cameras should have restricted access to the footage and provide 24-hour surveillance of hallways, classrooms, common areas, playgrounds, and entrances.
Staff and visitor protocols
Vetting and visitor management
It is much easier for parents to have peace of mind when the staff has been thoroughly vetted. The best daycares in 60618 go the extra mile through police background checks for all vendors, drivers, and staff members. The background checks ensure that parents feel at peace when dropping their little ones off for the day.
Parents should also look for daycares that have visitor management protocols in place. These digital systems require signing in or out and require photo identification to do so. Badges with photo IDs for staff members and educators are also a sign that a daycare is committed to a secure facility.
Staff training
Trained and experienced staff is vital to ensure your child is safe during the hours spent at the daycare center. Staff members should have CPR and emergency response training to ensure they are prepared for anything that could happen during the day. The staff should also have training on security protocols and the facility’s emergency exit plans.
Interior and emergency preparedness
Childproofing
A childproof daycare can lower the risk of accidents and injuries to students. When touring a daycare facility, note covered electrical outlets, the elimination of sharp edges, and furniture secured to walls. Another sign of a quality daycare is a designated space for locking away hazardous materials.
Emergency plans
Daycares in Chicago should have fire safety equipment that is easily visible and accessible, including fire alarms and extinguishers. It’s also vital to ask about the documented emergency exit plans and protocols when learning more about the facility. A quality daycare will have a plan and practice for fire drills and other emergencies.
Supervision
Daycares should provide open sightlines to ensure a high level of supervision in classrooms and common areas. Supervision is also enhanced by a high teacher-to-student ratio, which limits the risk of accidents.
Policies and communication
Clear safety policies
The daycare facility can stand out for its security by providing clear, consistent written safety policies to parents. These documents can help parents know what to expect regarding their child’s well-being during time spent at the daycare facility.
Daycare centers should also maintain open lines of communication with parents. Administrators and educators should use these lines of communication to answer questions, communicate security updates, and notify parents of incidents.
Digital tools
Digital tools are a differentiator in security, allowing parents to receive live updates on their child’s attendance, participation, and the times they were checked in and out. Parents can also receive updates on any repairs or facility updates, with staff ensuring the space is safe for students to resume using. It’s an increased level of oversight that provides comfort and security.