Picking the right childcare option is one of the most important decisions parents make. Did you know the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) licenses childcare agencies across the state? This helps keep kids in safe, healthy, and educational spaces.
TDHS has worked hard to improve services for families. Now, parents can use TDHS Child Care Locator tool to search for licensed childcare agencies in their area. This tool gives important details like the agency’s history of following rules and regulations.
When choosing childcare, parents should look for a few key things. First, always make sure the childcare agency is licensed by TDHS and that the licensed is displayed. The environment should be clean, safe, and have proper safety measure in place. You could ask about their staff’s qualifications. Check for age-appropriate learning activities that help children grow and ask other parents or read reviews to see if other have had positive experiences.
It’s important to know that any child care provider caring for five or more unrelated children for more than three hours a day without a license is breaking the law. Running an illegal childcare program, can put children in danger, and it’s a serious offense.
Parents should always look for the license when choosing childcare. If you ever find a childcare provider that might be operating illegally, you can report it by calling the Childcare Hotline at 1-800-462-8261. You can even remain anonymous. By choosing licensed childcare, you are ensuring your child has a safe place to learn and grow. To learn more, visit the TDHS website and use the Child Care Locator tool today!