By Melanie Rubin
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-896049.mp3
Dallas, TX –
The state agency that oversees child care standards in Texas will review those standards in meetings next week. Melanie Rubin of the non-profit Texas Association for Infant Mental Health believes changes are in order.
Just two steps into the Little Darlings Day Care Center, my senses are flooded. I'm treated to the high pitched giggling of two toddlers, the touch of a small hand pulling me with all its might, and the smell of chocolate chip cookies baking.
But as I walk further into the center, it's no longer a treat. Ten babies ages 0-11 months are scattered all over the first classroom. Ashley, with her big beautiful brown eyes and very effective lungs is strapped into a swing clearly not wanting to be there. Three other babies cry inconsolably as their mothers slump out of the room. Two infants happily coo on a blanket as Jake and Katie scoot around seeking any and every little object they can uncover. Melissa, one of two caregivers changes Sophie's diaper and Jordan, the other caregiver gets Roxy's bottle.
This chaos is the reality for many of our youngest children. Licensing standards in Texas allow ten babies to be in a classroom all day long with just two caregivers. Worse, caregivers can start caring for the children after only eight hours of training. A hair dresser needs 1,500 hours.
Further, there are no minimum requirements for trainers.
So, caregivers frequently receive instruction from trainers with no early childhood education or experience. Even trainers whose licenses have been revoked are still allowed to provide training.
Despite the fact that many of our youngest Texans spend the vast majority of their awake hours in child care; current standards do not safeguard our children physically, emotionally or developmentally. The National Fire Protection Association for example, requires that caregivers serve no more than two clients incapable of self-preservation. How are Melissa and Jordan going to get their ten babies out in an emergency?
Since 1921, The State of Texas has had the responsibility to review and recommend minimum child care licensing standards every six years. The stated purpose of the standards is to "protect the health, safety, and well-being of the children of the state." Recent scientific advances and findings about both early development and the significance of these early experiences have deepened our knowledge about what it takes to do this.
Children need regular, positive interactions with nurturing adults to develop the complex networks of brain connections they will need to form healthy relationships. Simply stated, optimal development occurs through a child feeling important to a caregiver. There are programs that exceed standards and do a wonderful job with young children.
But all too often this is not the case. Caregivers need to be mandated to have fewer children and small enough groups to be able to meet each child's needs. They also need adequate training to understand development and the importance of continuity of care.
Cost is the true barrier of good child care. But that is not a reason to cheat our most vulnerable citizens.
We don't refuse to subsidize vaccinations or public schools because families cannot afford the cost. The State has to be creative and committed to allocating the dollars to allow providers to move in the right direction.
Once again, the purpose of child care minimum standards is to "protect the health, safety, and well-being of the children of the state." It is imperative that ratios, training, group size, and education on continuity of care be improved in this revision. We know too much now not to.
Melanie Rubin is with the non-profit Texas Association for Infant Mental Health.
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