Web site lets parents check out day care centers

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services is opening its files so parents can find a safe place to leave their children.

This week the department’s child care licensing division launched its annual “Don’t Be in the Dark About Child Care” campaign that educates parents about the dangers of illegal child care and encourages centers and homes that aren't operating legally to obtain a permit.

As part of the campaign, the department is encouraging parents to visit its Web site to locate a child care center or home-run operation and read history reports on their inspections. The site also includes addresses and telephone numbers of the facilities, as well as information including what services they provide.

“It’s almost like our files are open,” said John Lennan, a spokesman for the family and protective services department. “We want our parent consumers to make an informed decision.”

If a center is not listed, it most likely is illegal, Lennan said.

Last year, 11 children in Texas died while in the care of an illegal operation, according to the department. And 13 out of 77 investigations into allegations of abuse and/or neglect at child care operations within the department’s Region 11, which includes the Rio Grande Valley and 15 other counties in south Texas, were validated, according to the department.

Parents are also encouraged to visit child care facilities to see if they feel it is an appropriate place for their children, Lennan said.

To search child care operations, visit www.txchildcaresearch.org. Those without Internet access can call (886) TX-CHILD for assistance. More information is available at www.dontbeinthedark.org. Child care providers can also use this Web site to find out how to get licensed, according to the department.

Jennifer L. Berghom covers education and general assignments for The Monitor. She can be reached at (956) 683-4462.