Key staff from over 500 child care centers were interviewed regarding risk assessment and reduction. Responses revealed three risk categories: (1) high frequency, low impact (playground injuries); (2) low frequency, low impact (burglary, vandalism, staff theft); and (3) low frequency, high impact (child abuse by staff, intruder crimes,…

Answers questions pertaining to child care center liability, including the following: (1) What are the most common claims?; (2) In what areas are centers most vulnerable?; (3) Under what circumstances are individual staff held responsible for claims?; (4) Is there any point in getting accident insurance if parents already have health insurance?;…

Discusses the unique vulnerabilities of the child care industry related to liability insurance. Presents questions for beginning liability- and coverage-related dialogue between the caregiver or center director and the attorney and insurance agent. (KB)

Provides insights from insurers who service early childhood programs. Addresses issues related to: (1) common mistakes centers make when determining insurance needs; (2) recommended lines of coverage; (3) determining levels of coverage; (4) timelines for policy reviews; (5) cost-effective strategies; (6) keeping insurance agents updated on new…

Examines questions related to child safety raised by early childhood practitioners in a Reggio Emilia program. Discusses the importance of organizing both materials and time to use the materials in such a way as to promote respect for them. Asserts that children need time to feel involved from the beginning in a project and to develop an attitude…

Provides advice on insurance coverage for child care centers. Suggests that before purchasing insurance you inquire about the agent's qualifications, company's financial stability, and corporate ratings; and obtain written answers to questions about specific coverage issues such as volunteers, legal defense costs, special events, and…

Offers guidance to childcare directors on handling public and parent relations during crisis situations (e.g., an outbreak of chicken pox, a child's death, or teacher's dismissal for reasons that cannot be disclosed). Recommends keen observation, risk management, and good planning. Offers suggestions for handling the situation before, during, and…

Identifies specific steps that child care centers can take to reduce the chances of burglary and vandalism. Differentiates loss prevention, loss control, and risk financing. Includes discussion of layering defenses, perimeter protection, security lighting, building surface security, locks, and alarm systems. Discusses the importance of reducing…

Discusses ideas and strategies to ensure risk management in early childhood settings. Suggests that current trends in early childhood education lead to the reevaluation of risk factors. Notes that risk management today includes not only inspecting playgrounds and classrooms and implementing the latest public health guidelines but also staying…