By Scott Soutullo, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network
Working parents in Alabama and Other States need child day care centers to watch and supervise their children in a safe, healthy living environment. Raising young children and holding down a job can be very stressful for parents especially when the supervision of their children is out of their control for the better part of the work day. The State of Alabama – Department of Human Resources recognized the special needs of infants and toddlers in day care centers. As such, the Department of Human Resources set forth specific Minimum Standards for Child Day Care Centers for the care and supervision of Infants and Toddlers. These regulations and procedures include the following:
*Infants / toddlers shall be encouraged and supervised with the playing with a variety of toys;
*Infants / toddlers shall be given time outdoors (weather permitting) as part of the daily program at the child day care center;
*Infants / toddlers shall be given time for freedom of movement (outside of their cribs) in an open, safe and uncluttered space in the child day care center;
*Infants / toddlers shall be handled “gently”. Rough or harsh handling is prohibited the Department of Human Resources Regulations and Procedures. Staff are also prohibited from shaking, lifting, or jerking either arm. Staff shall not lift, force, or move a child by grasping or grabbing clothing.