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Daycare Center and Family Home Forum>Illegal/Unlicensed Daycare on My Street
blandino 08:00 AM 09-23-2013
This morning on my way to get coffee we saw two moms talking in a driveway, one carrying in a big package of diapers.

The old owners have recently given this house to their children. So I am guessing that the daughter is running an unlicensed daycare. The kicker is, they know that we are only two houses down because they interviewed with us some years ago for their two boys. Honestly, one of our top 5 worst interviews - the boys were horribly behaved and mom had a "boys will be boys" attitude about it. And at the time, the boys were at an unlicensed daycare, and mom said it was fine because the DCP's husband was in law inforcement. Which made me furious, because it is illegal no matter what your husband's profession. Anyway, it makes sense that this lady is unlicensed if she didn't have a problem with unlicensed daycares knowing they are illegal.

I checked the DHS website and she isn't on there, plus their yard isn't fenced so they can't be licensed.

When we first moved in, someone called DHS to report an unlicensed daycare - we were licensed of course - so it didn't matter. But I am thinking it is only a matter of time before someone reports her. I won't because I don't like involving licensing in anything, even for someone else. But I just thought it was very ballsy of her to open an unlicensed daycare two houses down from a licensed daycare - of course we are going to notice !
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Play Care 08:13 AM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by blandino:
This morning on my way to get coffee we saw two moms talking in a driveway, one carrying in a big package of diapers.

The old owners have recently given this house to their children. So I am guessing that the daughter is running an unlicensed daycare. The kicker is, they know that we are only two houses down because they interviewed with us some years ago for their two boys. Honestly, one of our top 5 worst interviews - the boys were horribly behaved and mom had a "boys will be boys" attitude about it. And at the time, the boys were at an unlicensed daycare, and mom said it was fine because the DCP's husband was in law inforcement. Which made me furious, because it is illegal no matter what your husband's profession. Anyway, it makes sense that this lady is unlicensed if she didn't have a problem with unlicensed daycares knowing they are illegal.

I checked the DHS website and she isn't on there, plus their yard isn't fenced so they can't be licensed.

When we first moved in, someone called DHS to report an unlicensed daycare - we were licensed of course - so it didn't matter. But I am thinking it is only a matter of time before someone reports her. I won't because I don't like involving licensing in anything, even for someone else. But I just thought it was very ballsy of her to open an unlicensed daycare two houses down from a licensed daycare - of course we are going to notice !
Honestly I would need to see a lot more then that to think they were running an illegal day care
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Unregistered 08:56 AM 09-23-2013
Why be jealous that someone is watching children on your street. We have a lady in our neighborhood that watches kids. If we are filled up we tell our parents about her. Mostly she watches her grandkids.

For all you know she might be watching her relatives kids, could be anything but not something that sounds like you should concern yourself with.
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blandino 09:01 AM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Why be jealous that someone is watching children on your street. We have a lady in our neighborhood that watches kids. If we are filled up we tell our parents about her. Mostly she watches her grandkids.

For all you know she might be watching her relatives kids, could be anything but not something that sounds like you should concern yourself with.
I'm not jealous in the least ! Im not even going to report her, because honestly it isn't going to infringe on my business one bit. It is more of the fact that it's illegal that gets me. And it is just kind of right in our face being two houses down. It it just very bold.
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blandino 09:02 AM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by Play Care:
Honestly I would need to see a lot more then that to think they were running an illegal day care
Maybe you are right... But, I honestly think she is. Two moms bringing kids in and a package of diapers. It just seems to weird. But maybe it is something else ?!
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Play Care 09:06 AM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by blandino:
Maybe you are right... But, I honestly think she is. Two moms bringing kids in and a package of diapers. It just seems to weird. But maybe it is something else ?!
I'm not saying I wouldn't be watchful
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blandino 09:13 AM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by Play Care:
I'm not saying I wouldn't be watchful
Oh I will. And this neighborhood is mostly older people with very little to do....except watch. I think that is why we had someone innacurately report us when we first moved in. So I'm sure there will be lots of watchful eyes that might be the ONE time I would be freateful for busy-body neighbors. Haha
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Play Care 09:21 AM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by blandino:
Oh I will. And this neighborhood is mostly older people with very little to do....except watch. I think that is why we had someone innacurately report us when we first moved in. So I'm sure there will be lots of watchful eyes that might be the ONE time I would be freateful for busy-body neighbors. Haha
I wonder though - if the people who actually own the home (the woman's parents?) are longtime neighbors you may find your other neighbors willing to turn a blind eye *if* they like the owners.
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nanglgrl 09:39 AM 09-23-2013
If its illegal in your state I would report it. It's illegal and that's all there is to it. I know there are wonderful unlicensed providers as well as horrible licensed ones but I would still report an unlicensed daycare if it wasn't legal. I would more concerned that she's so close to you if an accident were to happen at her daycare. I know around here they give vague reports that aren't always 100% accurate when it has to do with problems at a daycare and people could easily get 2 daycare homes on the same street confused. Unlicensed when its illegal should always be reported, licensed doing something illegal should be reported.
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dingledine 09:43 AM 09-23-2013
I would report it. It sounds like bad news. Plus, if something happened, and it got in the news, so close to your daycare. it is all just potential bad news. Clearly, she IS running an unlicensed daycare, and the thought of you being jealous didn't even cross my mind, and still doesn't, even after the suggestion. I had someone report me as potentially an unlicensed daycare, shortly after I opened, but of course, I was.
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Unregistered 09:52 AM 09-23-2013
Or you could be a nice neighbor, go down there and introduce yourself!
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MamaBear 09:57 AM 09-23-2013
I had a neighbor 2 houses down in my old neighborhood that was an unlicensed daycare too. I tried to introduce myself to her and realized she didn't speak English. I knew she was unlicensed because my neighbor told me - they were friends. She had a loooot of kids in her care. I never reported her but then one of the daycare families I guess had a bad experience there (their child got injured) and reported her. About a month later, her and her family packed up there stuff in a day and took off back to Mexico. It was very interesting! We have a lot of unlicensed daycares around here and some are very ballsy about advertising on CL and sites like that. I wonder if Licensing ever checks those and catches them that way?
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Unregistered 10:10 AM 09-23-2013
I think your just being a busybody and it seems incredibly ridiculous you're thinking if reporting based on a pack of diapers. Maybe she's donating them, maybe they are having a playdate. You have no reason to report based on that...what a busybody you are! Geesh!
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blandino 10:14 AM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
I think your just being a busybody and it seems incredibly ridiculous you're thinking if reporting based on a pack of diapers. Maybe she's donating them, maybe they are having a playdate. You have no reason to report based on that...what a busybody you are! Geesh!
I think you have misread. I said I would NOT be reporting them. I said that we have busybody neighbors who first incorrectly reported us as an unlicensed daycare when we first moved in - so that if, in fact, they ARE running an illegal daycare. That I'm sure one of the neighbors will be reporting it.

Also, not a busy body. I was leaving to get a coffee this morning, and saw two cars pull-up and two moms (who are not the residents of the house) get out with young kids and walk ten to the door. That was it. I don't have my binoculars out or anything. Haha.
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blandino 10:15 AM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Or you could be a nice neighbor, go down there and introduce yourself!
We have already met them a few years ago.
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countrymom 10:46 AM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
I think your just being a busybody and it seems incredibly ridiculous you're thinking if reporting based on a pack of diapers. Maybe she's donating them, maybe they are having a playdate. You have no reason to report based on that...what a busybody you are! Geesh!
your a coward for hiding behind "unregistered"
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blandino 10:56 AM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by countrymom:
your a coward for hiding behind "unregistered"
Thank you countrymom !
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Patches 10:57 AM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by countrymom:
your a coward for hiding behind "unregistered"

The unregistereds on this post are being very rude on this post
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Unregistered 11:02 AM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by countrymom:
your a coward for hiding behind "unregistered"
There are two unregistered posting on here, I didn't post that one. I don't have an account on here, still deciding if I want to register.

If you are calling people names, then you need to also apply that to yourself for making personal attacks when most are trying to have a friendly discussion.
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MamaBear 11:05 AM 09-23-2013
It really sucks when you come on here to vent or need support on something - which is what this is supposed to be for, right?? And then you get people responding so rude & unhelpful... especially the ones hiding behind "unregistered". Yes everyone has their own opinions... but it makes me not want to post on here anymore when you get just sarcastic rude responses when you are just looking for a little helpful advice or to vent. Oh well. To each their own I guess!
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EntropyControlSpecialist 11:05 AM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by blandino:
I think you have misread. I said I would NOT be reporting them. I said that we have busybody neighbors who first incorrectly reported us as an unlicensed daycare when we first moved in - so that if, in fact, they ARE running an illegal daycare. That I'm sure one of the neighbors will be reporting it.

Also, not a busy body. I was leaving to get a coffee this morning, and saw two cars pull-up and two moms (who are not the residents of the house) get out with young kids and walk ten to the door. That was it. I don't have my binoculars out or anything. Haha.
Well why not? Go find them dern binoculars young lady.

I kid. I would report an illegal daycare.
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Unregistered 11:10 AM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by MamaBear:
It really sucks when you come on here to vent or need support on something - which is what this is supposed to be for, right?? And then you get people responding so rude & unhelpful... especially the ones hiding behind "unregistered". Yes everyone has their own opinions... but it makes me not want to post on here anymore when you get just sarcastic rude responses when you are just looking for a little helpful advice or to vent. Oh well. To each their own I guess!
Here's the thing, you get that from registered and unregistered from what I have seen on here!
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MamaBear 11:13 AM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Here's the thing, you get that from registered and unregistered from what I have seen on here!
Very true!
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Shell 11:17 AM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by MamaBear:
It really sucks when you come on here to vent or need support on something - which is what this is supposed to be for, right?? And then you get people responding so rude & unhelpful... especially the ones hiding behind "unregistered". Yes everyone has their own opinions... but it makes me not want to post on here anymore when you get just sarcastic rude responses when you are just looking for a little helpful advice or to vent. Oh well. To each their own I guess!
Feel the same way. This is a tough profession, and it really helps to have people to lean on for support that understand what we go through daily. Sometimes it is helpful to hear constructive criticism, but the OP clearly stated she wasn't calling licensing- I don't see the big deal here.
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Unregistered 11:18 AM 09-23-2013
Different unregistered posting now:

What state are you from? Is it illegal to run a daycare if you aren't registered? I have heard of a few states that do this. 6 months ago a woman opened a daycare next door to me. I had to report her not because I was jealous but because she had 15 children playing in her backyard with 1 adult. Registered or unregistered it was illegal. I understand where you are coming from!
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MNMommy2 11:31 AM 09-23-2013
It would be really cool if "unregistered" were not allowed. All they do is either lie about who they are or come here to stir up trouble. Sad. I'm not licensed anymore but still have one family (legally) so I still like to peruse the site.

Anyway, I would definitely keep an eye on it, just to see if she really does seem to be running an unlicensed daycare. I don't think it is being a busybody, it is being a concerned neighbor as part of a community, not to mention an actual business owner who went through the right channels to get licensed! IF something were to happen under her care, who's to say people wouldn't assume it was you? KWIM? For example, "oh, did you hear about what happened at the daycare on Maple Street? Oh, yeah, isn't that 'Blandino's' daycare?" Even if you know it wasn't you, others may not, and I would have for people to associate my street with the bad daycare... Esp. if you are a GOOD, legally licensed one!

Ha--and I hope you don't live on Maple Street, I just pulled that out of the air.
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blandino 11:35 AM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Different unregistered posting now:

What state are you from? Is it illegal to run a daycare if you aren't registered? I have heard of a few states that do this. 6 months ago a woman opened a daycare next door to me. I had to report her not because I was jealous but because she had 15 children playing in her backyard with 1 adult. Registered or unregistered it was illegal. I understand where you are coming from!
Yes, it is illegal. Unless they are family members or in care less than 15 hours a week, even having 1 child is illegal.
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JoseyJo 11:45 AM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by countrymom:
your a coward for hiding behind "unregistered"
Yep! I was thinking the same thing
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SilverSabre25 12:10 PM 09-23-2013
hi! Moderator here. Keep it nice, folks. Unreg, I'm looking at you.
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spinnymarie 12:29 PM 09-23-2013
Hopefully a watchful neighbor will take care of it!
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Michelle 12:32 PM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Different unregistered posting now:

What state are you from? Is it illegal to run a daycare if you aren't registered? I have heard of a few states that do this. 6 months ago a woman opened a daycare next door to me. I had to report her not because I was jealous but because she had 15 children playing in her backyard with 1 adult. Registered or unregistered it was illegal. I understand where you are coming from!
I agree!
If something happened to those kids.. you would feel really bad
I would report too
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Play Care 12:39 PM 09-23-2013
I want to be clear that if I saw an unlicensed day care I would report it.

But from the OP this could have been anything. She saw two women brining diapers to a house. Maybe it's because I live in a neighborhood with young families but that wouldn't raise any red flags for me.
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Unregistered 12:47 PM 09-23-2013
Why all the guesswork. She could go down there in a nice neighborly way, say something to the effect that she watches kids, and ask if she has a daycare to. Go from
there. Could have been a play date or who knows what.

I'd rather be on good terms with my neighbors, who knows you might need their help someday. A better approach than to be vindictive imo.
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blandino 01:20 PM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by Play Care:
I want to be clear that if I saw an unlicensed day care I would report it.

But from the OP this could have been anything. She saw two women brining diapers to a house. Maybe it's because I live in a neighborhood with young families but that wouldn't raise any red flags for me.
See, it's super unusual for my neighborhood. On my street not one person has kids younger than elementary school age. The person living in the house has kids in elementary school - but the rest are 50+ and mostly retired.
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blandino 01:22 PM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Why all the guesswork. She could go down there in a nice neighborly way, say something to the effect that she watches kids, and ask if she has a daycare to. Go from
there. Could have been a play date or who knows what.

I'd rather be on good terms with my neighbors, who knows you might need their help someday. A better approach than to be vindictive imo.
But I don't understand how anyone read vindictive from my posts ? I had no intention of reporting her or doing anything about/with her.

If she is running an illegal daycare, I don't think she is going to honest about it to someone who is running a legal daycare. She might, but I would doubt it.
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Unregistered 01:46 PM 09-23-2013
I mean't the other people who are jumping on the band wagon to report her. The poor girl already has a scarlet I for Illegal, lol.

I suggested getting to know her since you were wondering what was going on. Maybe she is planning on opening a daycare, or temporarily helping some friends or relatives out.
She may not be aware that you need to be licensed to watch a few children in that state.

Most people think it's ok to watch a few kids out of their home, not saying on this site, but maybe you can give her tips if she is a newbie. The lady on the other street I talk to about daycare because she watches her grand kids and one more I believe. She may happily tell you what is going on, my neighbors are certainly pretty chatty. Our area is also all families, so that wouldn't be out of the ordinary for us either.
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Hunni Bee 02:59 PM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
I mean't the other people who are jumping on the band wagon to report her. The poor girl already has a scarlet I for Illegal, lol.

I suggested getting to know her since you were wondering what was going on. Maybe she is planning on opening a daycare, or temporarily helping some friends or relatives out.
She may not be aware that you need to be licensed to watch a few children in that state.

Most people think it's ok to watch a few kids out of their home, not saying on this site, but maybe you can give her tips if she is a newbie. The lady on the other street I talk to about daycare because she watches her grand kids and one more I believe. She may happily tell you what is going on, my neighbors are certainly pretty chatty. Our area is also all families, so that wouldn't be out of the ordinary for us either.
When you are illegal, it comes with a "scarlet 'I'".

And it doesn't matter what the situation is. If its illegal to be unlicensed in the OP's state, then running an unlicensed daycare is illegal.

I don't know why people feel like that's debatable.

There was another thread a week or so ago where the OP got all hurt because people weren't agreeing that it was okay for her to operate illegally, because "she is good at what she does". She claimed even after she was ordered to shut down, the parents "refused" to stop bringing their kids to her, "forcing" her to continue to operate illegally.

If everyone else has to go through the proper procedure and shell out the cash to become licensed (if its necessary) then no one should get a free pass not to because they love kids or kids love them. And the people who report them are not evil or jealous.
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Hunni Bee 03:07 PM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by MNMommy2:
It would be really cool if "unregistered" were not allowed. All they do is either lie about who they are or come here to stir up trouble. Sad. I'm not licensed anymore but still have one family (legally) so I still like to peruse the site.

Anyway, I would definitely keep an eye on it, just to see if she really does seem to be running an unlicensed daycare. I don't think it is being a busybody, it is being a concerned neighbor as part of a community, not to mention an actual business owner who went through the right channels to get licensed! IF something were to happen under her care, who's to say people wouldn't assume it was you? KWIM? For example, "oh, did you hear about what happened at the daycare on Maple Street? Oh, yeah, isn't that 'Blandino's' daycare?" Even if you know it wasn't you, others may not, and I would have for people to associate my street with the bad daycare... Esp. if you are a GOOD, legally licensed one!

Ha--and I hope you don't live on Maple Street, I just pulled that out of the air.

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preschoolteacher 05:33 PM 09-23-2013
Here's a little spin-off of my own... OP, I sympathize with you.

I've been waiting going on 6 months now for my license. It's taking forever. I'm caring for my nieces a few days a week and a boy from an unrelated family on different days. Legally unlicensed.

I wrote on another post how I take whichever kids I have to the park at the same time most days. It happens to be when all the daycare providers in the neighborhood go to the park. There are three other women with groups of kids there... and all three of them are unlicensed. They just offered me that information with no hesitation! Each one had 4-6 kids from different families... it is plausible that one of them may have had family members and was legally unlicensed...but the other two were definitely doing it wrong.

They were aware of this. One of them told me she used to be licensed but she lost her license (because she had a baby napping in a Pack-N-Play wearing a snow suit!!) and now she is a "nanny"... working from her home... caring for three different families.

So so frustrated that I'm trying to do this the legal way, it's taking forever, and I'm losing clients and not making any money. It feels like--what's the point??? Ugh!
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dingledine 09:30 PM 09-23-2013
I would just ignore the troll (s), and not let them (it) get to you.
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BABYLUVER 09:36 PM 09-23-2013
Originally Posted by MamaBear:
It really sucks when you come on here to vent or need support on something - which is what this is supposed to be for, right?? And then you get people responding so rude & unhelpful... especially the ones hiding behind "unregistered". Yes everyone has their own opinions... but it makes me not want to post on here anymore when you get just sarcastic rude responses when you are just looking for a little helpful advice or to vent. Oh well. To each their own I guess!
Then you miss valuable advice. Doesn't matter WHERE you go, especially in a forum with mostly women. Drama to always follow somehow. lol
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MyAngels 05:44 AM 09-24-2013
Originally Posted by BABYLUVER:
Then you miss valuable advice. Doesn't matter WHERE you go, especially in a forum with mostly women. Drama to always follow somehow. lol
My hubby belongs to a couple of forums that are all men and he says they are way worse than women when it comes to drama . I think it's just the nature of forums in general that attracts drama at times .
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Blackcat31 07:08 AM 09-24-2013
Originally Posted by MyAngels:
My hubby belongs to a couple of forums that are all men and he says they are way worse than women when it comes to drama . I think it's just the nature of forums in general that attracts drama at times .
I agree! My DH also belongs to several woodworking forums and the drama on those boards is just as bad if not worse than some of the things I've read on here.

I think that drama has more to do with diversity and differing perspectives rather than the sex of the poster.
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Play Care 08:11 AM 09-24-2013
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
I agree! My DH also belongs to several woodworking forums and the drama on those boards is just as bad if not worse than some of the things I've read on here.

I think that drama has more to do with diversity and differing perspectives rather than the sex of the poster.
Totally anecdotal, but the only difference I notice between men and women with regard to drama is that the men seem to get over it more quickly
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caregiver 08:19 AM 09-24-2013
I always hate getting into the conversations about unlicensed and illegal daycare because there is so much controversy, but I think that if your really concerned about it, go talk to her,find out exactly how many kids she does have before you do the guessing game. It always pays to have your facts straight before you get concerned about things. I know you said your not going to report her, but for your own self it probably would be good to know just what she is doing. Go talk to her and introduce yourself to her if she is new in your neighborhood,tell her you do daycare and see what she says about what she is doing.
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KidGrind 09:19 AM 09-24-2013
Off topic:

As prior military in a field made up of 3% females, men are incredibly more drama driven than females in my life experience.

The only comment that made me lower my eyebrow was the "back to Mexico".
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My3cents 09:41 AM 09-24-2013
Originally Posted by Hunni Bee:
When you are illegal, it comes with a "scarlet 'I'".

And it doesn't matter what the situation is. If its illegal to be unlicensed in the OP's state, then running an unlicensed daycare is illegal.

I don't know why people feel like that's debatable.

There was another thread a week or so ago where the OP got all hurt because people weren't agreeing that it was okay for her to operate illegally, because "she is good at what she does". She claimed even after she was ordered to shut down, the parents "refused" to stop bringing their kids to her, "forcing" her to continue to operate illegally.

If everyone else has to go through the proper procedure and shell out the cash to become licensed (if its necessary) then no one should get a free pass not to because they love kids or kids love them. And the people who report them are not evil or jealous.

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My3cents 09:48 AM 09-24-2013
Originally Posted by preschoolteacher:
Here's a little spin-off of my own... OP, I sympathize with you.

I've been waiting going on 6 months now for my license. It's taking forever. I'm caring for my nieces a few days a week and a boy from an unrelated family on different days. Legally unlicensed.

I wrote on another post how I take whichever kids I have to the park at the same time most days. It happens to be when all the daycare providers in the neighborhood go to the park. There are three other women with groups of kids there... and all three of them are unlicensed. They just offered me that information with no hesitation! Each one had 4-6 kids from different families... it is plausible that one of them may have had family members and was legally unlicensed...but the other two were definitely doing it wrong.

They were aware of this. One of them told me she used to be licensed but she lost her license (because she had a baby napping in a Pack-N-Play wearing a snow suit!!) and now she is a "nanny"... working from her home... caring for three different families.

So so frustrated that I'm trying to do this the legal way, it's taking forever, and I'm losing clients and not making any money. It feels like--what's the point??? Ugh!


the point is that you are trying to do it the right way! Get on the phone and find out what is holding up the process of you getting your license. Just because someone decides to jump off the bridge doesn't mean that you have to do it too. Have a good feeling that you are doing things the right way and see what comes of that- Sorry I don't like the mentality of what's the point. Since when has doing things the right way become such a choice and an inner battle.

Don't get me wrong I do understand what your saying and how you feel- but life is not fair, but that doesn't mean we have to stop trying and stop doing right, just because it doesn't seem fair. I am far from perfect but for whatever reason your comment got to me, even if I understand how you feel and have been there.
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My3cents 09:50 AM 09-24-2013
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
I agree! My DH also belongs to several woodworking forums and the drama on those boards is just as bad if not worse than some of the things I've read on here.

I think that drama has more to do with diversity and differing perspectives rather than the sex of the poster.
I am guessing that men don't hold back either. They say it how it is. I know in real life they do most of the time.
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daycarediva 09:56 AM 09-24-2013
Originally Posted by Hunni Bee:
When you are illegal, it comes with a "scarlet 'I'".

And it doesn't matter what the situation is. If its illegal to be unlicensed in the OP's state, then running an unlicensed daycare is illegal.

I don't know why people feel like that's debatable.

There was another thread a week or so ago where the OP got all hurt because people weren't agreeing that it was okay for her to operate illegally, because "she is good at what she does". She claimed even after she was ordered to shut down, the parents "refused" to stop bringing their kids to her, "forcing" her to continue to operate illegally.

If everyone else has to go through the proper procedure and shell out the cash to become licensed (if its necessary) then no one should get a free pass not to because they love kids or kids love them. And the people who report them are not evil or jealous.



My state is ASKING providers to turn in those operating illegally-licensed or not- to crack down on it. Illegal is illegal, just because you don't like or agree with the law, doesn't give people a right to disregard it.

I would report it. If it is an illegal daycare, they SHOULD be shut down and/or forced to become licensed.
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Leanna 10:07 AM 09-24-2013
Daycarediva, you are in NY too right? Where did you see/hear that?
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rhondawarren 10:11 AM 09-24-2013
Originally Posted by blandino:
This morning on my way to get coffee we saw two moms talking in a driveway, one carrying in a big package of diapers.

The old owners have recently given this house to their children. So I am guessing that the daughter is running an unlicensed daycare. The kicker is, they know that we are only two houses down because they interviewed with us some years ago for their two boys. Honestly, one of our top 5 worst interviews - the boys were horribly behaved and mom had a "boys will be boys" attitude about it. And at the time, the boys were at an unlicensed daycare, and mom said it was fine because the DCP's husband was in law inforcement. Which made me furious, because it is illegal no matter what your husband's profession. Anyway, it makes sense that this lady is unlicensed if she didn't have a problem with unlicensed daycares knowing they are illegal.

I checked the DHS website and she isn't on there, plus their yard isn't fenced so they can't be licensed.

When we first moved in, someone called DHS to report an unlicensed daycare - we were licensed of course - so it didn't matter. But I am thinking it is only a matter of time before someone reports her. I won't because I don't like involving licensing in anything, even for someone else. But I just thought it was very ballsy of her to open an unlicensed daycare two houses down from a licensed daycare - of course we are going to notice !

Unlicensed Day Cares are not illegal as long as they are following the guidelines for an unlicensed Day Care. What exactly made you think that she was providing illegal care? Some people choose not to get licensed because they have no intentions of keeping more children than the guidelines for an unlicensed Day Care. An unlicensed provider does not mean that they are illegal nor does it mean that the quality of care that they provide is any less than that of a licensed provider. In fact ... in some cases I have seen people that have chosen not to get licensed but are very professional and treat it as much like a business as a licensed provider.
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craftymissbeth 10:13 AM 09-24-2013
Originally Posted by rhondawarren:
Unlicensed Day Cares are not illegal as long as they are following the guidelines for an unlicensed Day Care. What exactly made you think that she was providing illegal care? Some people choose not to get licensed because they have no intentions of keeping more children than the guidelines for an unlicensed Day Care. An unlicensed provider does not mean that they are illegal nor does it mean that the quality of care that they provide is any less than that of a licensed provider. In fact ... in some cases I have seen people that have chosen not to get licensed but are very professional and treat it as much like a business as a licensed provider.
You and blandino don't look like you're in the same state. Every state has different regulations and laws. In my state (Kansas), for example, there are very few ways to be legally unlicensed.
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melilley 10:25 AM 09-24-2013
Originally Posted by rhondawarren:
Unlicensed Day Cares are not illegal as long as they are following the guidelines for an unlicensed Day Care. What exactly made you think that she was providing illegal care? Some people choose not to get licensed because they have no intentions of keeping more children than the guidelines for an unlicensed Day Care. An unlicensed provider does not mean that they are illegal nor does it mean that the quality of care that they provide is any less than that of a licensed provider. In fact ... in some cases I have seen people that have chosen not to get licensed but are very professional and treat it as much like a business as a licensed provider.
Unlicensed daycare's are illegal here in MI. You can't even take care of one unrelated child in your own home without a license. Family members are the only people who can take care of children in their homes without a license. I do agree that unlicensed providers can take just care of children just as well as a licensed provider, but I also think that you should follow the law and if your state requires you to be licensed, then you need to do so.
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melilley 10:26 AM 09-24-2013
Originally Posted by daycarediva:



My state is ASKING providers to turn in those operating illegally-licensed or not- to crack down on it. Illegal is illegal, just because you don't like or agree with the law, doesn't give people a right to disregard it.

I would report it. If it is an illegal daycare, they SHOULD be shut down and/or forced to become licensed.
Ugh, I wish they would do that here!
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Patches 10:27 AM 09-24-2013
Originally Posted by rhondawarren:
Unlicensed Day Cares are not illegal as long as they are following the guidelines for an unlicensed Day Care. What exactly made you think that she was providing illegal care? Some people choose not to get licensed because they have no intentions of keeping more children than the guidelines for an unlicensed Day Care. An unlicensed provider does not mean that they are illegal nor does it mean that the quality of care that they provide is any less than that of a licensed provider. In fact ... in some cases I have seen people that have chosen not to get licensed but are very professional and treat it as much like a business as a licensed provider.
In OPs state there is really no such thing as legally unlicensed. Pretty much, you're either licensed or illegal. If you ONLY care for family or you watch children less than 15 hours a week then you don't need to get licensed
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Rockgirl 10:28 AM 09-24-2013
Originally Posted by craftymissbeth:
You and blandino don't look like you're in the same state. Every state has different regulations and laws. In my state (Kansas), for example, there are very few ways to be legally unlicensed.
That's also the case in Texas. Even to care for one unrelated child, a person has to at least be listed.
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MsLaura529 10:34 AM 09-24-2013
In MI, there is only one way to be unlicensed, and that is if you are watching blood-related children.
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melilley 10:44 AM 09-24-2013
Originally Posted by MsLaura529:
In MI, there is only one way to be unlicensed, and that is if you are watching blood-related children.
Yep. But you can watch kids for up to 4 weeks a year and not be licensed....weird!
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blandino 10:59 AM 09-24-2013
Originally Posted by Patches:
Unlicensed Day Cares are not illegal as long as they are following the guidelines for an unlicensed Day Care. What exactly made you think that she was providing illegal care? Some people choose not to get licensed because they have no intentions of keeping more children than the guidelines for an unlicensed Day Care. An unlicensed provider does not mean that they are illegal nor does it mean that the quality of care that they provide is any less than that of a licensed provider. In fact ... in some cases I have seen people that have chosen not to get licensed but are very professional and treat it as much like a business as a licensed provider.
In OPs state there is really no such thing as legally unlicensed. Pretty much, you're either licensed or illegal. If you ONLY care for family or you watch children less than 15 hours a week then you don't need to get licensed[/quote]

Yes, in our state there is no legally unlicensed option. You either care for blood relatives or offer care less than 15 hours/week. Otherwise you have to be licensed, even if its only one child.
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TwinKristi 02:23 PM 09-24-2013
Sorry if I missed this but how do you know they're there more than 15hrs a week and/or not related? Because they brought packs of diapers?

And why complain and stew about it and not turn her in? Illegal/unlicensed providers should be turned in, why get licensed if you're never going to need to? Maybe she's been applying for a license and operating for now (still illegal) ya know? If you saw someone breaking into a car would you call? If you saw someone stealing from a store would you tell someone? And as long as you're doing what you're supposed to be, who cares if licensing stops by while they're in the neighborhood? At least you're prepared!
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blandino 03:04 PM 09-24-2013
Originally Posted by TwinKristi:
Sorry if I missed this but how do you know they're there more than 15hrs a week and/or not related? Because they brought packs of diapers?

And why complain and stew about it and not turn her in? Illegal/unlicensed providers should be turned in, why get licensed if you're never going to need to? Maybe she's been applying for a license and operating for now (still illegal) ya know? If you saw someone breaking into a car would you call? If you saw someone stealing from a store would you tell someone? And as long as you're doing what you're supposed to be, who cares if licensing stops by while they're in the neighborhood? At least you're prepared!
I don't know that - that's why I didn't & won't report until I know more.

I have no worries about licensing stopping by at all. If she were permitted or licensed, it would be posted online and it isn't. Also, they can't be licensed because their back yard isn't fenced, that's how I came to that conclusion.

And totally not stewing, I just thought it was very bold to do something like that. I am not upset in the least .
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daycarediva 03:30 AM 09-25-2013
Originally Posted by Leanna:
Daycarediva, you are in NY too right? Where did you see/hear that?
Right out of my registrars mouth. They are responding to CL ads posing as women seeking child care, sitting outside of houses at drop off-pick up times to count heads, that sort of thing. My registrar (who I LOVE) just was moved FT to the position of tracking them down. It is SOOO BAD in my area because daycare is on the high end. They just closed a woman down who had 6 INFANTS in care.
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preschoolteacher 06:56 AM 09-25-2013
Originally Posted by My3cents:
[/color][/b]

the point is that you are trying to do it the right way! Get on the phone and find out what is holding up the process of you getting your license. Just because someone decides to jump off the bridge doesn't mean that you have to do it too. Have a good feeling that you are doing things the right way and see what comes of that- Sorry I don't like the mentality of what's the point. Since when has doing things the right way become such a choice and an inner battle.

Don't get me wrong I do understand what your saying and how you feel- but life is not fair, but that doesn't mean we have to stop trying and stop doing right, just because it doesn't seem fair. I am far from perfect but for whatever reason your comment got to me, even if I understand how you feel and have been there.
Oh, don't worry... there is no way I'm going to quit waiting and cave in. I want to do things right. I've been on the phone A TON... they aren't even returning my calls now. Just venting, not saying I'm going to start running illegally too. I think I met someone at a class yesterday who has some connections and can possibly figure out what's going on... fingers crossed!
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harperluu 10:37 AM 09-25-2013
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
I think your just being a busybody and it seems incredibly ridiculous you're thinking if reporting based on a pack of diapers. Maybe she's donating them, maybe they are having a playdate. You have no reason to report based on that...what a busybody you are! Geesh!
Running an unlicensed daycare is a big deal. Around here, if you're caught running an unlicensed daycare you don't get to just get a license, you are shut down. There are licensing guidelines for a reason. The OP didn't go hunting around trying to find dirt on her neighbors, she reported her observation and came here to make an educated decision.

I find your name calling a little silly. And also oddly enough, anonymous.
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Leanna 10:38 AM 09-25-2013
Originally Posted by daycarediva:
Right out of my registrars mouth. They are responding to CL ads posing as women seeking child care, sitting outside of houses at drop off-pick up times to count heads, that sort of thing. My registrar (who I LOVE) just was moved FT to the position of tracking them down. It is SOOO BAD in my area because daycare is on the high end. They just closed a woman down who had 6 INFANTS in care.

I cannot imagine trying to care for 6 infants simultaneously! Wow.

Four years ago I had a mom enroll her 14 mo. old with me after pulling her from a home daycare where the "provider" had eleven children aged four and under! The mom was a first time mom and didn't know that home day cares had to be licensed.
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Unregistered 11:17 AM 09-25-2013
Originally Posted by MNMommy2:
It would be really cool if "unregistered" were not allowed. All they do is either lie about who they are or come here to stir up trouble. Sad. I'm not licensed anymore but still have one family (legally) so I still like to peruse the site.

Anyway, I would definitely keep an eye on it, just to see if she really does seem to be running an unlicensed daycare. I don't think it is being a busybody, it is being a concerned neighbor as part of a community, not to mention an actual business owner who went through the right channels to get licensed! IF something were to happen under her care, who's to say people wouldn't assume it was you? KWIM? For example, "oh, did you hear about what happened at the daycare on Maple Street? Oh, yeah, isn't that 'Blandino's' daycare?" Even if you know it wasn't you, others may not, and I would have for people to associate my street with the bad daycare... Esp. if you are a GOOD, legally licensed one!

Ha--and I hope you don't live on Maple Street, I just pulled that out of the air.

I agree with you, and thankfully the registered users don't do any of that!!!

Hopefully the OP will keep us updated if there are cars there every morning, or if this was a one day thing.
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melilley 11:29 AM 09-25-2013
Originally Posted by daycarediva:
Right out of my registrars mouth. They are responding to CL ads posing as women seeking child care, sitting outside of houses at drop off-pick up times to count heads, that sort of thing. My registrar (who I LOVE) just was moved FT to the position of tracking them down. It is SOOO BAD in my area because daycare is on the high end. They just closed a woman down who had 6 INFANTS in care.
Awesome! Awesome that they are tracking people down! 6 infants, I could not imagine-I love babies...but
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Starburst 02:05 PM 09-25-2013
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Or you could be a nice neighbor, go down there and introduce yourself!
Um, I'm pretty sure she said that she already knows who lives there.
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Starburst 02:16 PM 09-25-2013
Originally Posted by MNMommy2:
It would be really cool if "unregistered" were not allowed. All they do is either lie about who they are or come here to stir up trouble. Sad. I'm not licensed anymore but still have one family (legally) so I still like to peruse the site.


That's what I was thinking was happening. I thought Michael posted something about that a while ago that only registered members would be allowed to post, but I guess he decided not to. Some people on here have even admitted that they log out and post as unregistered to stir up drama (like that whole "sister wives" thread that they had to close in less than an hour from the original posting).

Plus, I think one of the unregistered posters wasn't really reading OPs post, just skimming through and then making an opinion based on the little bit they did read. Or that they just found this site in a Google search and don't work with kids or know anything about daycare/laws and just want to cause drama.
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Blackcat31 02:37 PM 09-25-2013
Originally Posted by Starburst:


That's what I was thinking was happening. I thought Michael posted something about that a while ago that only registered members would be allowed to post, but I guess he decided not to. Some people on here have even admitted that they log out and post as unregistered to stir up drama (like that whole "sister wives" thread that they had to close in less than an hour from the original posting).

Plus, I think one of the unregistered posters wasn't really reading OPs post, just skimming through and then making an opinion based on the little bit they did read. Or that they just found this site in a Google search and don't work with kids or know anything about daycare/laws and just want to cause drama.
Michael created a section where ONLY members can post. It is the off-topic section. Posters will need to be registered in order to post in that section.

The regular board will NEVER be off limits to unregistered posters as they too seek advice, support and opinions.

NOT all unregistered posters are rude or unhelpful. A majority have valuable content to add and are welcome to post.
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Unregistered 10:53 PM 10-22-2013
I did a search on turning in illegal daycares and this thread came up.Here is my situation.I know someone who is running an illegal daycare,if she was licensed she would be over capacity by 2 kids.All of that doesn't bother me too much, to each their own.I worked hard for my license but I also charge twice what she does in return.Heres what really bothers me-she has a criminal background for violence.I wouldn't leave my kids with her and I worry about the kids she watches.She also isn't even CPR or First Aid certified.I would never want her to know I turned her in.She said that one of the moms that had taken her child to her before threatened to turn her in so i don't think I would ever be suspected but is it anonymous?From a business standpoint if something isn't hurting anyone I could care less what anyone does but something about her doing this keeps me up at night.I don't want any of her kids, by the way.I am full so before you jump on me, realize I don't want her business.Im just concerned. What do you guys think?
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Familycare71 04:47 AM 10-23-2013
Originally Posted by daycarediva:
Right out of my registrars mouth. They are responding to CL ads posing as women seeking child care, sitting outside of houses at drop off-pick up times to count heads, that sort of thing. My registrar (who I LOVE) just was moved FT to the position of tracking them down. It is SOOO BAD in my area because daycare is on the high end. They just closed a woman down who had 6 INFANTS in care.

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Patches 05:19 AM 10-23-2013
Originally Posted by Unregistered:401893:
I did a search on turning in illegal daycares and this thread came up.Here is my situation.I know someone who is running an illegal daycare,if she was licensed she would be over capacity by 2 kids.All of that doesn't bother me too much, to each their own.I worked hard for my license but I also charge twice what she does in return.Heres what really bothers me-she has a criminal background for violence.I wouldn't leave my kids with her and I worry about the kids she watches.She also isn't even CPR or First Aid certified.I would never want her to know I turned her in.She said that one of the moms that had taken her child to her before threatened to turn her in so i don't think I would ever be suspected but is it anonymous?From a business standpoint if something isn't hurting anyone I could care less what anyone does but something about her doing this keeps me up at night.I don't want any of her kids, by the way.I am full so before you jump on me, realize I don't want her business.Im just concerned. What do you guys think?
Call licensing and turn her in
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MyAngels 05:23 AM 10-23-2013
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
I did a search on turning in illegal daycares and this thread came up.Here is my situation.I know someone who is running an illegal daycare,if she was licensed she would be over capacity by 2 kids.All of that doesn't bother me too much, to each their own.I worked hard for my license but I also charge twice what she does in return.Heres what really bothers me-she has a criminal background for violence.I wouldn't leave my kids with her and I worry about the kids she watches.She also isn't even CPR or First Aid certified.I would never want her to know I turned her in.She said that one of the moms that had taken her child to her before threatened to turn her in so i don't think I would ever be suspected but is it anonymous?From a business standpoint if something isn't hurting anyone I could care less what anyone does but something about her doing this keeps me up at night.I don't want any of her kids, by the way.I am full so before you jump on me, realize I don't want her business.Im just concerned. What do you guys think?
Sounds like a disaster just waiting to happen. I'd turn her in and I wouldn't care whether she knew it was me or not.
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delferka 10:22 AM 10-23-2013
Can't someone just take care of a couple of kids these days. Everything is helicoptered these days. Most states allow you a couple of kids without a license
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sharlan 10:33 AM 10-23-2013
Each state has different regulations.

In CA, we can only watch family members without a license. Or we can watch 1 family without a license. As soon as you mix two families you have to be licensed.
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DebraHeschl 10:34 AM 10-23-2013
Here in PA..You can care up to 3 unrelated children in your home & still do as a business. If she has more than 3 than she is doing it illegally. I would just have a friendly chat with her & maybe you both can bounce off each other for support. It could totally be innocent.
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Unregistered 11:03 AM 10-23-2013
Originally Posted by delferka:
Can't someone just take care of a couple of kids these days. Everything is helicoptered these days. Most states allow you a couple of kids without a license
If she was licensed she would be over capacity! It's not just a couple of kids!I know she has had 8 kids at a time, some of which are infants. By herself. That is not a couple of kids!
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Playtime Shelly 11:09 AM 10-23-2013
Originally Posted by blandino:
Yes, it is illegal. Unless they are family members or in care less than 15 hours a week, even having 1 child is illegal.
Be careful telling people what is or isnt legal as you don't know where they are, each state is different.

I live in CO and I am not licensed, I am currently watching one child and will be taking on another next week. The state says that I can watch 1 non related child or 2 if they are siblings. I find that to be ridiculous and am willing to take a stand with the state should someone choose to report me. The thing is that many people simply can't afford licensed daycare.

In the Denver area the least expensive brick and mortar daycare I found was $290 a week. As for in home licensed daycare they are getting a MINIMUM of $50/day/child and most of them have no openings for children under 2 because the state makes it very difficult to get licensed for 2 under 2. There are "Nanny shares", I love this one, that are getting $60+/day/child and aren't subject to licensing because they are "nannies". I charge $40/day/child, I have a contract that is flexible for my parents and I claim my income so that my parents can get the tax deduction.

I think the OP needs to just keep an eye on what is happening a few doors down. Like she said the neighbor will probably report her anyway but I care for up to 3 children 8 mos and younger and there is no issue here. Everyone is fed, cleaned and safe. Any more than 3 though and it would be too much to handle so if the neighbor is watching 2 kids no big deal, if you see 15 like the other poster then its in the kids best interest to report them.
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Blackcat31 12:13 PM 10-23-2013
Originally Posted by Playtime Shelly:
Be careful telling people what is or isnt legal as you don't know where they are, each state is different.
.
The person you are quoting KNOWS it is illegal because she is in the same state as the person she is posting about so I am pretty sure she knows the laws/regulations for her state.

She wasn't telling anyone from other states what was and wasn't legal.

You are right about each state being different though.
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Unregistered 06:50 PM 09-22-2014
Not sure I want report this; however, my ex-girlfriend runs an illegal daycare in Hennepin County, MN. I worry because our daughter lives there and I fear for her well-being. Furthermore, this woman has alienated My daughter from me (that's for another forum) claims disability and has people working for her!? A real piece of work. So, how would one go about reporting this conduct? Any input would be appreciated. Thank you.
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tntsmom 08:32 PM 09-22-2014
We providers work far to long and hard and take our job seriously, I do not hesitate, I turn them in! I see people all the time posting on craigslist "need a babysitter, stay at home mom looking to watch a few kids" I flag them! We are way way more than "babysitters"
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Cat Herder 04:05 AM 09-23-2014
Originally Posted by My3cents:
I am guessing that men don't hold back either. They say it how it is. I know in real life they do most of the time.
Yet, they are respected for it. Women who do that are called ____. Luckily ____'s don't care much about that.

I report illegal daycares. Licensing is NOT the SWAT team.

The visit will be a well dressed person, with a rolling bag, filled with resources and an offer of help to become legal.

Nothing scary about that.

I don't know it Blandinos neighbor is running an illegal daycare, but the first time I ran across the ad or yard sign, I'd call in a heartbeat. We are SUPPOSED to. It is about child safety, not hurt fee-fee's.


2013 Ugh, I should know better than to post without checking a date... Oh, well... Blandino, how did this turn out??
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LysesKids 04:57 AM 09-23-2014
I didn't look at date either lol
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Blackcat31 06:20 AM 09-23-2014
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Not sure I want report this; however, my ex-girlfriend runs an illegal daycare in Hennepin County, MN. I worry because our daughter lives there and I fear for her well-being. Furthermore, this woman has alienated My daughter from me (that's for another forum) claims disability and has people working for her!? A real piece of work. So, how would one go about reporting this conduct? Any input would be appreciated. Thank you.
I am in MN. Here is the contact info for your area.

To file a complaint or check on complaint records call
•Hennepin County: 612-348-3883.
•Statewide: 651-296-3971.

Other important numbers
•Child protection concern: call 612-348-3552
•Emergencies: call 911
•Unlicensed provider operating illegally: call 612-348-3883

Complaints are confidential

Hennepin County is required to investigate possible violations of child care licensing rules. This is usually done face-to-face with the provider.

Once the investigation is complete, one of these findings is made:
•Occurred: Facts in the complaint were found to be true. This could result in a correction order, negative action, or some other form of correction as deemed appropriate by the licensor, the county attorney, and the program supervisor.

A negative action would only be taken in the most serious cases.
•Did not occur: Complaint found to be false. Usually no further action is taken.
•Unable to determine: County unable to determine whether the facts alleged were true. Licensing staff might offer suggestions or corrections if warranted.

After the complaint is filed, all complaints are retained in the licensing file

The Minnesota Data Privacy Act prevents the county from releasing certain information about the complaint, such as any identifying information about who made the complaint. The nature of the complaints considered public information once the investigation is complete. State law requires the county to release the basic complaint information, the results of the investigation, and whether or not any corrective action was taken as a result. Parents can contact the provider if they want more information.

Providers have the right to give input into the process

The provider has the right to appeal a correction or negative action if they believe it is incorrect. Under the licensing rule, the licensor has the right to enter your home at any time the child care program is in operation. The provider may opt not to talk with the licensor, although this may result in a substantiated finding, since most often the provider is the primary source of information.

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Dilley Beans 11:48 AM 09-23-2014
Just don't go out of your way to piss off your neighbors. You never know when you'll need them. That said, are children in danger? If you think that child safety is lacking, you may have reason to call your local certification office.
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toriskids 12:31 PM 09-23-2014
Some child care in Oregon does not require a license from the Office of Child Care
Child care is exempt from regulation if:
*The provider cares for three or fewer children in addition to the provider’s own children
*The provider cares for any number of children from the same family
*The care is provided in the home of the child
*The care is provided by the child’s parent or guardian or a relative
*The care is provided on an occasional basis by someone who does not usually provide child care
*The facility provides a preschool program that operates for less than four hours per day and provides education to children from age 3 through school age
*The facility provides training on a specific subject such as dancing, drama, music etc.
*The facility is an organized club or hobby group providing short athletic or social activities, such as soccer, scouts etc.
*The facility is operated by a governmental agency
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Unregistered 07:16 AM 09-24-2014
I had an illegal DC two doors down also. She could legally take 6 and not be licensed, and I'd count 13 coming in the morning!

One of my moms was a social worker. She would talk to me about the place, # of kids, they never came outside, etc. she eventually called it in. I wasn't comfortable doing it, but I didn't ask her to.

That woman still gives me the evil eye 18 yrs later! It didn't help our neighborly relationship that people would wait till I had an opening and then enroll with me. That didn't bother me a bit. If she was doing a decent job clients wouldn't have left!

Good luck.
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