Children could undoubtedly face illnesses in ECE environments, but there are some factors that all families must consider before placement: While the attached article does not directly address these factors, it is important that families know that children do not have to be prone to ear infections because of child care.
1. The younger the child, the lower the student/educator ratio (infants 3:1, toddlers 4:1)This number is different from the 'state approved' ratio. Ask each facility 'their average ratio' in those classrooms.
2. Watch the actions of the educators and the process used for wiping noses, changing diapers, and cleaning throughout the day. Ensure the educators use soap and water for both the child and the adult, for any type of contamination. Bleach water or other disinfectants approved should be used throughout the day when materials are soiled and/or used. Toys that children use for teething should be readily placed inside of a 'dirty' bucket, then washed in soapy water, soaked for at least two minutes inside of a sanitizer, and finally left to dry before being returned to the play area.
3. Infant classrooms: babies should be getting fed on laps, with an adult who is bonding with the child. Bottle propping can often force milk into the ear in a way that may cause ear infections. Infant rooms with high student/educator ratios will find it very difficult to manage without bottle propping.
These factors are simple, but missed by many ECE communities. When considering placement into a program, parents of infants need to consider each and be unwilling to bargain.
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/PL00021272
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