(901)-244-5003 
When parents drop their children off at daycare, they are placing a great deal of trust in the caregivers and the facility. Unfortunately, not all daycares uphold the standards necessary to protect the children in their care. In Tennessee, daycare centers are required by law to follow strict licensing guidelines. When these standards are ignored or violated—and a child is injured as a result—parents may have legal grounds to file a personal injury claim based on negligence.
At The Gold Law Firm, our Memphis personal injury lawyers represent families whose lives have been disrupted by preventable harm in daycare settings. Understanding how licensing and negligence intersect can help you protect your child and hold the right parties accountable.
Tennessee Licensing Requirements for Daycare Centers
In Tennessee, most childcare centers are required to be licensed through the Department of Human Services (DHS). Licensing requirements exist to ensure that daycares meet minimum health, safety, and staffing standards.
These include:
- Background checks and training for all staff members.
- Safe sleep practices for infants.
- Child-to-staff ratios and group size limits.
- Proper supervision at all times.
- Clean and hazard-free environments.
- Emergency preparedness plans.
If a facility operates without a license or violates these standards, it may face administrative penalties and potential civil liability if a child is harmed.
Common Forms of Negligence in Daycares
Even licensed daycares can be negligent. Negligence occurs when the facility or staff fail to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm to a child.
Examples of daycare negligence in Memphis include:
- Inadequate supervision leading to falls, choking, or injuries from other children.
- Unsafe or unsanitary play areas and restrooms.
- Staff failing to follow medical or dietary instructions.
- Delayed responses to emergencies or medical issues.
- Abuse or mistreatment by unqualified or improperly supervised staff.
In some cases, injuries may stem from a pattern of overlooked violations or a failure to report previous incidents. When these conditions exist, daycare centers can—and should—be held liable for the injuries sustained.
What to Do If Your Child Is Hurt at Daycare
If your child is injured at a daycare facility, you may be overwhelmed with worry and unsure of what to do next.
Here are the key steps to take:
- Seek immediate medical attention and keep detailed records of all care.
- Document the injury with photos and a written account of what happened.
- Request an incident report from the daycare and verify if DHS has been notified.
- Do not sign any waivers or releases without speaking to an attorney.
- Report the incident to the Tennessee Department of Human Services.
Most importantly, speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer to understand your rights. At The Gold Law Firm, we can determine whether licensing violations or negligence played a role in your child’s injury and help you pursue justice.
We Help Families Hold Negligent Daycares Accountable
When daycare facilities in Memphis fail to meet their legal and ethical responsibilities, children suffer, and parents are left searching for answers. We’re here to help you find them.
Contact our Shelby County personal injury attorneys today by calling or texting (901) 244-5003 or contact us online for a free consultation. We’ll listen, investigate, and fight for the compensation and accountability your family deserves.
