COLORADO SPRINGS- When it comes to finding childcare, for some parents, it can become a daunting and at times challenging process to find affordable and safe places.
After Colorado Springs Police made 2 arrests on Friday at a day care ran by a woman giving out a fake name, it’s raising some questions and concerns for parents.
‘I’m sure they’re just thinking ‘what could’ve I done differently?’ that’s really hard,’ said Tia Smith, a parent in Colorado Springs.
In Colorado, the state Department of Human Services runs a website called ‘Colorado Shines’ which gives parents tools to find licensed childcare providers.
‘Then you’re able to really determine if they’re going to be a safe care provider for your child,’ said Krystal Grint with the El Paso County Dept. of Human Services (DHS).
If parents don’t go through a licensed provider, DHS doesn’t have jurisdiction to regulate the business.
Additionally, Grint suggests parents do their due diligence and do as much research as they can.
‘I think the most important thing is to go and meet with the daycare or the licensed facility that you’re having your child attend,’ said Grint.
DHS also recommends getting references from the provider, and if you can, see if you can get a background check done.
