How to File a Complaint Against a Daycare Center in Georgia

File an immediate complaint for concerns involving abuse or safety issues at childcare centers.

In Georgia, daycare centers are regulated by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning Bright from the Start agency. Through this program, daycare inspectors make unannounced visits to daycare centers at least every 2 years, and they also investigate complaints. The agency places top priority on complaints involving safety issues. Other frequent complaints include nutrition and meals, discipline and guidance and inadequate supervision. Through the online website, parents can check the complaint record of a particular school.

Instructions

1. Talk with your child's teacher or the school director if you have a minor concern, such as nutrition or curriculum. You can often resolve these concerns through good communication.

2. Contact the Bright from the Start office at 404-657-5562 to file a complaint, if the director is unresponsive or if the issue is one that may cause immediate emotional or physical harm to children.

3. Visit the website at decal.ga.gov. to determine if the complaint was investigated and learn the outcome. Inspectors may take several weeks to investigate a complaint, depending on their current workload and the severity of the complaint.

Tips & Warnings

• When choosing a daycare facility for your child, check references, spend time in the classroom observing the teacher and trust your intuition. Spending the time to find a high-quality daycare center is the best insurance that your child will be safe and happy.

• Work to establish good communication with your daycare provider to avoid misunderstandings. If a concern arises, finding a resolution is more likely if you already have a good relationship.

• Do not remove your child from an otherwise positive daycare situation over minor issues. Your child has bonded with the teacher and will likely suffer from an unnecessary transition. However, act quickly if you suspect abuse, neglect or inadequate supervision.

References

• Bright Start: Frequently Asked Questions
• Macon.com: Here's How to File a Day Care Complaint; S. Heather Duncan; 2010

Resources

• National Association of Childcare Resource Agencies: Parental Access