Tragedy has stunned a Chicagoland community after a two-year-old girl at a home-based day care drowned when she managed to gain access to a swimming pool at the home.  The child was one of 10 children (7 children from outside the home and 3 of her own) the caregiver was looking after at her home in Aurora, IL.

Just months ago, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) conducted an allegation of neglect at the same operation, and while the neglect allegation was not substantiated--- the owner of the facility was cited for for operating an unlicensed day care facility.

DCFS officials have confirmed that the owner of the day care did apply for a license in June, but the application had not been reviewed and no license was granted at the time of this incident.

Licensing of Day Care Facilities

Most states have licensing regulations for all types of day care facilities.  In Illinois, home day care operators that care for four our more children must be licensed by the state in order to assure that there is sufficient staffing levels in place to properly look after the children.

Would more staffing have prevented this day care tragedy?  The reality is that this tragedy could have occurred under a variety of circumstances-- with any number of caregivers.  However, as a parent I know how demanding looking after two small children can be.  Ten-- I can't even imagine!  No doubt an extra set of eyes couldn't hurt!

While the investigation into this matter continues, I suggest that the state take a much harder line when it comes to the regulation of day care facilities to ensure the safety of all children.  Further regulation of all day care facilities would provide an added level of safety for children and piece of mind for parents. 

Related:

Aurora Day Care Where Toddler Died Had No License, CBSChciago.com

Preventing Institutional Child Abuse By Carefully Selecting A Facility

Understanding The Regulations Pertaining To Day Care Facilities Is Crucial To Protecting Your Child