At Hartley Community Daycare Center we are licensed and regulated by the State of Iowa. To maintain the highest standards of care staying in compliance is our top priority. We strictly follow all state and Department of Human Services (DHS) regulations to ensure a safe and high-quality environment for every child.

Key Areas of Compliance

  1. Health & Safety:
    • Maintaining clean and sanitary environments.
    • Conducting regular safety inspections and emergency preparedness drills.
    • Ensuring that all individuals have access to appropriate health screenings and services.
  2. Staff Qualifications & Training:
    • Requiring all team members to undergo comprehensive background checks.
    • Providing ongoing training in areas such as first aid, CPR, and crisis intervention.
    • Ensuring staff-to-client ratios are maintained as mandated by state and DHS standards.

Current ratios are:

      • Two weeks to two years: One to every 4 children
      • Two years: One to every 7 children
      • Three years: One to every 10 children
      • Four years: One to every 12 children
      • Five years to ten years: One to every 15 children
      • Ten years and over One to every 20 children

Ratios may be adjusted the first two hours and last two hours of the operating day and during rest time to accommodate staff breaks.

  1. Record-Keeping & Reporting:
    • Maintaining up-to-date records on health, attendance, and incidents.
    • Reporting any concerns, incidents, or policy changes to the appropriate state and DHS authorities promptly.

Ongoing Compliance Efforts

  • Regular Inspections & Licensing:
    We welcome routine inspections by state and DHS representatives to ensure our operations consistently meet or exceed the established guidelines and have one scheduled licensing visit every year.
  • Continuous Improvement:
    Our administrative team reviews regulatory updates regularly and audits all files annually in August/September. We adjust our policies, training, and procedures to remain current with the latest standards.

Resources & References

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • How often are inspections conducted?
    Inspections typically occur on an annual basis. Licenses are good for two years but an inspection will still happen on a non-licensing year. Any compliant to the state is immediately investigated and followed up by an unannounced visit to the center.
  • What happens if a violation is found?
    We take all findings seriously. In the event of a violation, we promptly address the issue, implement corrective measures, and document all changes. We must complete a corrective action plan and submit it to the state and licensing agent for approval. Depending on the complaint or violation unannounced visits may happen randomly and more frequently. Our goal is to prevent future occurrences and maintain full compliance.
  • How do I verify your current license status?
    You can verify our licensure and compliance history by clicking here to see the most recent compliance reports and licensing visits.
  • Do you take Child Care Assistance?
    Yes! We do! Childcare assistance can be applied through your local office or through the online portal here.

Last Updated: [12-12-2024]