Got Kids in Daycare? Nick Shirley wants to see them

Here’s a sample Daycare Security Policy to pass along:

Purpose: To ensure the health, safety, and protection of every child, staff member, and visitor at [Daycare Name].

1. Visitor Entry & Access

• All exterior doors shall remain locked during hours of operation.

• Visitors must ring the doorbell or use the intercom to request entry.

• Staff shall respond from inside and verify identity before entry.

• Only authorized persons may enter (authorized = parent/guardian listed on the child’s enrollment forms or previously approved service providers).

2. Identification Verification

• All visitors must show valid photo ID at the door or check-in station.

• Staff will confirm that the visitor is authorized to see/transport the child.

• If the visitor is unknown or not on the child’s authorized list, entry is denied.

3. Unauthorized or Unwanted Visitors

• No one without children enrolled is permitted access beyond the secure entry point.

• Staff should maintain a sign-in/sign-out log that includes time, name, and purpose of visit.

4. Emergency Protocol

If an unauthorized person:

• Demands access

• Becomes agitated

• Refuses to leave

➡️ Staff must follow the “Unauthorized Visitor Response Procedure” below.

5. Communication

• Directors notify parents and guardians after any security incident.

• Incidents must be documented and reported to licensing authorities and law enforcement when appropriate.

6. Training

• All staff must receive annual training on:

  • Visitor screening and verification

  • Use of security devices (locks, intercoms)

  • Responding to security threats

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Unauthorized Visitor Response Procedure

1. Stay Calm & Professional

2. Maintain a Physical Barrier

   • Do not open the door.

   • Speak through a locked door or intercom.

3. Ask for Identification

   • “May I see your photo ID and who you are here to pick up?”

4. If They Cannot Provide Authorization

   • “I’m sorry, but we cannot allow access. For children’s safety, only authorized caregivers may enter.”

5. If They Persist or Become Agitated

   • Dial 911 immediately and inform them of the situation.

   • Alert onsite supervisor/lead.

6. Document

   • Time, description, demeanor, what was said, actions taken.

7. Notify Parents / Guardians

   • Share factual information—no speculation.

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Staff Response Script (Everyday Version)

Visitor: “I want to see the children.”

Staff:

“Good morning/afternoon. For the safety of all children, we can only allow authorized parents or guardians to enter. Who are you here to see?”

Visitor: “I just want to look around.”

Staff:

“Thank you for your interest, but we do not permit unscheduled tours or access without prior approval from management and permission from the parents of the children here. You may leave your contact info and we can follow up if appropriate.”

If the visitor persists:

“I’m going to have to refuse entry. If you don’t leave, I will call the police given our safety policies.”

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California State Licensing Rules (Key Points)

1. Licensing Authority & Purpose
In California, licensed child care centers are regulated by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) to protect the health and safety of children in care.

2. Visitor / Safety Standards
While California’s Title 22 licensing regulations set mandatory health/safety and staffing requirements, they do not prescribe a specific visitor-screening script or exact type of lock system. The regulations require a safe facility and a written plan of operation, which should include policies for admission, supervision, and emergency procedures.

What this means in practice:

• You must have a written plan of operation that covers safety practices, including who is authorized to access the center.

• The facility must be kept in a safe condition for children (no hazards accessible) and supervised at all times by cleared personnel.

• Adults in contact with children who are visiting have undergone required background checks or are supervised appropriately per licensing rules.

3. Criminal Clearances & Supervision
Staff, volunteers, and others who regularly interact with children must have the appropriate criminal record clearances or approved exemptions; unauthorized visitors without clearance should not be in contact with children.

4. Emergency Drills & Safety Planning
Centers must maintain a written disaster and emergency plan and conduct regular drills (e.g., fire and earthquake). While these drills don’t replace security protocols, they emphasize preparedness.

5. Reporting Requirements
Serious incidents or threats may need to be reported to licensing and law enforcement. If licensing finds safety violations or incomplete policies, it can result in corrective actions or complaints.