Report a Concern
Right to Report a Concern
If something concerns you regarding your provider you have a right to report your concern with Social Services. Crow Wing County looks at reports from both the parent's point of view and the provider's. Before doing so you need to be able to recognize the difference between a serious concern and a personal concern. Serious concerns are violations of rules and regulations and personal concerns are differences in beliefs, styles of communication, and business related problems.
Communication
Your child care provider plays a valuable role in your child's life. It is very important for parents to have good, open communication with their child care provider. Talk to your provider about your child rearing beliefs on a regular basis. It is important to:
- Check any posted information your provider may put up
- Make a point to see how your child's day has gone
- Read the information your provider shares with you and respond to it
Any personal concerns should be addressed with the provider directly. Examples of personal concerns are parents being charged a late fee they feel is not accurate, being called to pick up their sick child, and the provider charging for vacation or sick days.
Personal Concern Discussions
When discussing the personal concerns, ask the provider if you can talk to them at a time when they are not busy with the children. Once you are able to talk, inform your provider of your concern and have and offer an alternative solution. Listen to your provider. See whether they would be able to make the change that you want to take place. Remember that a provider may not be able to make the change one parent wants as they have to think of all the children in their care. The provider may also have definite policies that they feel they need to adhere to for their own reasons.
Alternative Solutions
If the provider can not make the change you have proposed, see if they have another alternative that will work for you both. Most concerns can be handled through these negotiations. Remember to address all issues as they arise so no built-up feelings of frustration and anger are there. If adjustments cannot be made, you will need to decide whether you can live with the situation or if you need to look for alternate care. If you are going to look elsewhere, be upfront with your provider. Let them know that you feel strongly about this situation. Let them know that you will be giving them the agreed upon notice. A smooth transition for you and your child, along with the provider is important.
Child abuse/neglect reports:
Child abuse/neglect reports can be made Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. by calling Crow Wing County Social Services at 218-824-1140 and asking for Child Protection Intake. After hours reports can be made by calling the Crow Wing County Sheriff's Department at 218-829-4749 or 911.
Family Licensed Child Care concerns/complaints:
Contact the County Licensor at 218-895-4120.
Child Care Center concerns/complaints:
Contact the Child Care Center Licensor on call at 651-431-6500. A licensor on call answers phones Monday-Friday (excluding holidays) from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.