What to Do If Your Infant Suffers a Catastrophic Injury at Daycare
When you drop your infant off at daycare, you trust that the staff will do everything in their power to keep your child safe. But what happens when that trust is broken? What happens when a daycare fails to protect your child, and your infant is seriously hurt as a result?
If your child has suffered a catastrophic injury at daycare, you may be overwhelmed, angry, and unsure of what to do next. At The Button Law Firm, we guide families through moments like this every day. Here’s what we recommend to do if your infant is injured due to daycare negligence.
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
This step is crucial. No matter what type of injury occurred—whether it’s a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord damage, broken bones, or internal injuries—get your child medical help right away. Infants and young children often can’t communicate what hurts or how badly they’re feeling, which makes it even more important to act quickly.
Even if the injury doesn’t seem severe initially, some of the most serious medical conditions aren’t visible immediately. Medical professionals can evaluate your child and begin the necessary treatment while documenting the injury—which may be important later.
2. Report the Incident to the State’s Childcare Licensing Division
Once your child is stable and has been treated, the next step is to report the incident to your state’s childcare licensing division. This is a vital step because the state will launch its own investigation into the daycare facility. They’ll determine whether the daycare violated any health and safety regulations or failed to meet the minimum standards required by law.
The state may impose corrective actions, fines, or even shut down the daycare if violations are found. Reporting the incident helps ensure accountability and protects other children from being harmed in the future.
We've made it easier if you’re unsure how to report the daycare or which agency to contact. Visit the link below this article for a state-by-state list of childcare reporting agencies and contact information.
3. Contact the Police if You Suspect Criminal Intent
If you believe there may have been any criminal wrongdoing—whether that’s abuse, neglect, or intentional harm—contact the police. A law enforcement investigation is separate from the state’s daycare licensing investigation and could result in criminal charges against the individuals responsible.
Both investigations are important and can work in tandem to reveal the full scope of what happened and why.
4. Speak with a Daycare Injury Attorney
Finally, reach out to our daycare injury team here at The Button Law Firm.
We focus on helping families like yours navigate the legal process after a serious daycare injury. Our team has the experience, resources, and commitment needed to hold negligent daycare facilities accountable. We’ve seen firsthand how overwhelming this process can be, and we’re here to shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on your child’s recovery.
As part of our commitment to education, we also provide a free 5-step guide for families dealing with daycare injuries. This guide walks you through what to do in the aftermath of an injury and helps answer some of the most common questions parents have in these difficult moments.
You’re Not Alone
We know this is a lot to take in. But please know—our team is here for you. If your infant has been catastrophically injured at daycare, you don’t have to navigate this on your own. We’re here to offer guidance, support, and answers as you begin to pick up the pieces. Your family’s safety and future matter; we’re ready to help you keep moving forward.
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