Horrible daycare drama---- I can't believe this....

smiling76

I seriously am going to lose it soon---and not sure what to say to the director of the daycare so that it doesn't put my son in a compromising position there.  This is going to be long...beware----but man, I found out so much yesterday!!!!!!!  My gut is definitely right on this one.

Since day 1 I haven't liked his teacher (he has a 'main' teacher that is there all day and then teachers will pop in here and there and also relieve her at the end of the day since she leaves by 4:30).  My gut says something is not right with this lady. 

So I catch different things like he was soaking wet one day I picked him up--come to find out yesterday she leaves them in the high chairs for a LOOOONG time to the point they are sweating on the vinyl.  I find him in bouncers a lot as well--when he can sit totally fine and NEEDS HELP with his development (still not rolling, which I am starting to blame on her now since I know she's lazy with them)

I pick him up--see "poop stains" on his outfit--think he just pooped so bring him home to change his diaper and no poop---the last time he had pooped was in the AM and she never changed his outfit despite the many change of diapers---and it was VERY apparent--not just a spot.

She basically tries to tell ME how to do things--including how much I should feed him and when (even though I've told her many times I breastfeed).  The other day she calls me b/c DS had a reaction supposedly to the bananas I've sent and then threw up--come to find out I think she overfed him--giving him a bottle AND 4 oz of bananas at once--I'd throw up too!!! 

There's a number of other things--including not putting babies in the crib and having them just sleep in bouncers or swings.  Mixing up pacifiers.  Putting other kids clothes/bibs on, leaving milk out for waaaay too long, letting kids who stand up in their cribs walk around the crib with the SIDE DOWN!!!  Coming to work sick all the time and then getting the kids sick all the time.  I've seen her blow her nose and not even wash her hands!!

The lady seems like she doens't "love" the babies--like this is a job and that's it.  Come to find out her 5 yr old son who has behavioral issues from what I could see doesn't know his letters, name, colors, etc.  Has told me how she wouldn't want him in daycare. Nice.  Also told me she wants to start her own "in-home" daycare--I wish...then she'd leave.

THE KICKER:  This other teacher who I spoke to after daycare yesterday (who comes in and relieves DS's teacher at the end of the day and sees what is going on throughout the day)--and who confided all this other stuff to me yesterday, including that none of the other teachers in the school like this lady---said that two of the teachers from the other classes are pregnant and said they woudln't put their babies in that room.  UGH!!!!!! 

So yeah---basically this 'other' teacher who told me tons of other stuff about this teacher said other parents have had issues--not sure if they have complained to the director though.  This teacher HAS complained and was told to mind her own business and that the "kids aren't bleeding to death over there".....   so she's like telling me something will happen there and that she's trying to help these babies.  Nice director, huh??  OH yeah--and the director is like NEVER there.

I just am numb--I can't even think.  I want to discuss with the director and find out what they will do about it (basically if they don't fire her I am going elsewhere since I don't feel safe around this lady--she seriously seems like she will go nutso one day).  But the director is NEVER AROUND.  So I'd need to almost make an appt and I'm afraid it'll get back to the teacher then.

OMG----this freaking sucks so bad!!!!!!  So now I almost HAVE to look elsewhere and I'm not sure the other options (which there aren't many in my area)---are going to be much better.  I'm so sad and so depressed right now.

 

 

smiling76

Holy ***....that IS long....I'm sorry ----  I just needed to get this all out.  I am so stressed right now.

*blondiem*

Just find another place for him. I know that it's tough, but this is obviously not the right fit for you and for your DS.  Is this an in-home place or a center??

 

 

smiling76

*blondiem*:

Just find another place for him. I know that it's tough, but this is obviously not the right fit for you and for your DS.  Is this an in-home place or a center??

 

 

Heather R

Ugh! 

Well, if you do manage to get the director, you're not going to be able to cite the other teachers' information.  It would create internal problems-- for those teachers, as well.  You need to cite your information.  I suggest making a bulleted list using only neutral language and only recording observations, not hearsay, including any times you have asked about these issues. 

Other than that, you have to listen to your mother's instinct. 

smiling76

*blondiem*:

Just find another place for him. I know that it's tough, but this is obviously not the right fit for you and for your DS.  Is this an in-home place or a center??

 

 

we're in a rural area and there's  not many options at all--otherwise I probably would have gone elsewhere to begin with.  It's a center of sorts--through a church.

 

AngeNAndy4106

Sorry that you are having to deal with all this.  It's so hard to find bad things out and knowing that our children have been in an unhealthy situation.  I would say for sure you need to pull your son out of there until or unless they remove this teacher ASAP.  Is there a regional director or someone over the center director you can contact. Most big name daycare centers have something like this.  Maybe just go over the director's head and try to get some action.  Good luck and keep up posted!

punkfiction

yeah - go with your gut and find another place. when you are looking for other places, tell the new spot of your troubles before so they can help ease the transition

CHI-06

If you haven't liked the lady since day one and have previsouly noted these other things why have you not already talked to the director about it?  Call and leave a message for her to cal you back to talk.  Based on everything you wrote though I would pull my kid out of there in a heartbeat.

good luck

Temp700366562504480

I'm so sorry that you're dealing with all this...trusting and finding a good daycare can be tough.  You definitely need to talk with the director, but I would start hunting for a place immediately.  I don't think I would have waited this long to speak up though...there's so many issues.  Our director tells us to ask her/talk to her if we are concerned about anything.  Many times it can be something small and that she'll be able to explain or know why (for instance DS refused to nap for the first 8 weeks he was there (6-9 months old) and the only way he would sleep was in a bouncer...).  If someone else saw this they would probably question it.

 I did speak to our director because of one of DS's teachers acting like it was just a job...missing the warm and fuzzy interaction.  Things have turned around immensly and perhaps she just needed a reminder.  But--my son's basic needs were being met.  If his needs aren't being met, then you need to speak up sooner rather than later.

*blondiem*

smiling76:

*blondiem*:

Just find another place for him. I know that it's tough, but this is obviously not the right fit for you and for your DS.  Is this an in-home place or a center??

 

 

we're in a rural area and there's  not many options at all--otherwise I probably would have gone elsewhere to begin with.  It's a center of sorts--through a church.

 

I am so sorry ( Keep an eye out for something.  It seems there must be someone with an in-home center or somewhere else you could possible take him.  HUGS.

cbwm

Definitely pull your son out of there ASAFP. I'd be getting on other daycare options NOW.

Where do you live in Illinois? PM me. I have a resource that might help you.

Temp700366562504480

smiling76:

*blondiem*:

Just find another place for him. I know that it's tough, but this is obviously not the right fit for you and for your DS.  Is this an in-home place or a center??

we're in a rural area and there's  not many options at all--otherwise I probably would have gone elsewhere to begin with.  It's a center of sorts--through a church.

If you don't get anywhere with the director or have problems tracking him/her down...you may want to contact the church.  I'm sure that they don't want that perception of their church to be like that...especially if there are not a lot of options for you in your area.

wearewinelovers

At the end of the day your child's safety and development is priority #1 so I would find somewhere else.  Advise the Director as to why.  I'm sure your child isn't the only one if the other teachers know these things are going on.

go with your gut!!  get him out of there

smiling76

cbwm:

Definitely pull your son out of there ASAFP. I'd be getting on other daycare options NOW.

Where do you live in Illinois? PM me. I have a resource that might help you.

I have no idea how to PM.....I'm not that great with this site yet.  But I'm in the FAR south surburbs of Chicago.

 

Cytina

That sucks you don't have options b/c it sounds to me like you need a different DC!  The Director knows all this and has done nothing?  I doubt she will even when you say something...  Could you get with the other parents on this and really get in her face about it as a group?

cbwm

smiling76:

cbwm:

Definitely pull your son out of there ASAFP. I'd be getting on other daycare options NOW.

Where do you live in Illinois? PM me. I have a resource that might help you.

I have no idea how to PM.....I'm not that great with this site yet.  But I'm in the FAR south surburbs of Chicago.

 

See the "Contact+" blue link in my post in the bottom right hand corner? Click on that.

Mjmksb04

Follow your instincts and switch daycares. If you think something isn't right, something probably is not right.

melissab07

I know it is hard, but I would find somewhere else to take him.  I see you said there aren't a lot of options, but I would definitely even look for something that may take a little more time to get to?  I know that seems hard, but to me it sounds like it might be for the best.  We have to drive a little farther than I like in the morning to drop off DS, but it is worth it.  I do have problems with things my daycare does, but they are little issues.  I never have to worry that something could actually happen to DS, and I see the workers actually are very nice and loving with him, so I had to weigh the pros and cons! GL

wendyj

That is so horrible. I can understand why you'd be stressed out. If you can, try looking for other daycare possibilities. I would not feel safe having my child there if there is a director who would knowingly and willingly employ someone that does that to children. Do you know any of the other parents in your child's room? If you have enough information, you should report the director or teacher or both. Then get the heck out of there asap.

Linds&Chris777

I know what a pain it can be to find childcare, but based on all that I wouldn't let my kid stay there another day.  It also sounds like something really really bad could happen any day now, and when it does happen you will be kicking yourself even harder for not doing something about it sooner.

smiling76

The thing is is that the school is great---the other teachers are so nice and so so GREAT with him--it's her though that I just do not like.  As for the other parents---one was there picking up his son and basically just smirked and goes "having problems??"  but like in a way like "yeah...join the club"--so I need to hook up with him.  The other parents I never see.  

 

inbetweendreams

That sucks, and I can't imagine how you feel knowing all that information.

I would be looking for a new daycare. Even if that teacher gets fired, I would not feel comfortable having my DC at a center where the director didn't seem to care what the teachers were doing.

chrisnj0614

i would start looking ASAP.  Your childs welfare is number 1 and if she is the main teacher, I would not be happy.

Do you work with anyone with kids?  Maybe they can tell you who they use?  Maybe you can find a nanny agency? 

leighbird4

My first thought after 'oh my, I feel so bad for those kids...and the parents' is write an anonymous letter.  That way they don't track it but you do report the teacher and her actions.  The poop thing would send me off the deep end.  I would be livid.  The comments about the crib incidents are terrible too, along with all the others.  I'm sorry you're having such a hard time.  So, I say write the note, don't sign your name but do address the director.  I would make it a point to make sure you aren't being too specific when you make your points or she might know which child's parent sent it (even though you sort of want her to know that you'd like to sit down with her).  Is there anyone else you can confide in who would be able to talk to her for you? Best of luck...      

Rubygirl

Clearly you  need to find a different day care.  Give your notice once you do and talk to the Director on the last day if you're concerned about your child's welfare.  Or get an in-home sitter at your house.  I have issues with my day care but not nearly anything as bad as this. 

~somdgirl~

*blondiem*:

Just find another place for him. I know that it's tough, but this is obviously not the right fit for you and for your DS.  Is this an in-home place or a center??

 

 

I agree. You have to feel 100& confident in who is taking care of your child.

C.squared

Definitely find a new place!  I have actually been in a similar situation and am giving my notice tomorrow and starting at a new place.  Nothing they have done has put my DD in any danger, but they can't seem to follow directions well and that is extremely frustrating.  Trust your instincts.  Ask neighbors for recommendations, randomly stop in on other centers to check them out.  You'll find a place that you feel more comfortable with.  After looking for new centers, I instantly connected with the director at the new place and that is something that is lacking at the current center.  Honestly, I would find a new place, give your notice, and then discuss it with the director on your way out.  Good luck - it's tough! 

MrsGeek

I would report them to CPS.

Temp174496125006552

I'd get him out of there, like yesterday.  That teacher sounds horrific. 

Since you said daycare is an issue because of your location, could you maybe find a SAHM that might be interested in watching him...or in-home daycare? 

Good luck!

femmeftle9

Yeah it sounds like your child is in a bad situation. Have you looked at in-home daycares? DD is in an in-home licensed daycare & I LOVE her DCP & her assistant like they are part of my own family. I think DD benefits from the more intimate atmosphere and from being around the other children. She's constantly coming home saying and doing new things that I KNOW she hasn't picked up from me (like clucking her tongue, lol). Some days, DD wants to stay at DCP's house rather than go home with me because she is having so much fun! DCP also feeds DD very well... most nights we don't even have to feed her dinner because the DCP has already fed her and she's not hungry (we'll usually give her a snack & sippy).

Yeah DCP gets the clothes mixed up on occasion (though sometimes I forget to put a spare outfit in the bag), but that doesn't bother me at all.

Pacheco825

Is there another class he can be put in? I would def talk to the director and threten to file a complaint with the state or something. Ovbiously they are neglecting kids and providing a unsafe enviorment.

Pacheco825

Is there another class he can be put in? I would def talk to the director and threten to file a complaint with the state or something. Obviously they are neglecting kids and providing a unsafe enviorment.

junebugrbig

Not only would I take my kid out of there, I would report that facility.  That is unacceptable.

fIowerchild

I would think that you would want to look elsewhere, given everything what you wrote about the teacher and the director who is never there.  Seriously, get your kid outta there right away.

Is this basically the level of care that is offered around you or do you think you can find something better? This daycare seems WAY below the quality of care that I would expect.