For many migrant families, finding reliable child care is a top priority. However, concerns about immigration enforcement and school safety often create anxiety when seeking early childhood education. While schools and child care centers are intended to be safe spaces for all children, understanding your rights and available resources can help alleviate some of these fears.
This guide provides helpful insights and actionable steps for migrant families navigating child care while addressing concerns about immigration enforcement near schools.
Are Schools and Child Care Centers Safe for Migrant Families?
Under the “sensitive locations” policy established by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), certain locations are designated as places where enforcement actions should be avoided, including:
- Schools
- Child care centers
- Places of worship
- Hospitals
While this policy offers some reassurance, it is important to stay informed about the latest updates and understand how it applies to your situation.
Steps to Ensure Your Family’s Safety
- Understand Your Rights
- Every child in the U.S., regardless of immigration status, has the right to access public education under the Supreme Court ruling in Plyler v. Doe (1982).
- Child care and preschool programs often follow similar guidelines to ensure access for all families.
- Communicate With Your Child Care Provider
- Many child care centers, like La Maison du Soleil, are committed to creating inclusive and welcoming environments for all families.
- Share your concerns with the administration to understand their policies and commitment to protecting privacy and ensuring a safe environment.
- Ask About Confidentiality Policies
- Verify that the center keeps personal information confidential and does not share details about immigration status with external agencies.
- Stay Informed
- Follow trusted organizations like the American Immigration Council and Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC) to stay updated on policies affecting schools and child care centers.
Finding Child Care You Can Trust
If safety is a concern, consider these tips when selecting a child care provider:
- Choose a Family-Oriented Center
- Family-owned facilities, such as La Maison du Soleil, often offer a personal touch and prioritize creating a safe, welcoming space for all families.
- Seek Transparent Policies
- Look for providers with clear policies on confidentiality and parent communication.
- Ask if the facility offers live-stream monitoring to give you peace of mind throughout the day.
- Explore Subsidy Programs
- Many child care centers accept state or local subsidy programs, which can reduce costs for families. Programs like New Jersey’s subsidy program make quality care accessible to those in need.
- Look for Flexible Schedules
- Flexible hours can help migrant families balance work and family responsibilities without added stress.
Additional Resources for Migrant Families
- United We Dream: Provides resources and advocacy for immigrant families.
- National Immigration Law Center (NILC): Offers updates and guidance on immigration policies.
- Child Care Aware of America: Helps families find affordable and reliable child care.
How La Maison du Soleil Supports Migrant Families
At La Maison du Soleil Education Center, we recognize the unique challenges faced by migrant families. Our inclusive environment and commitment to privacy ensure every child receives the care and education they deserve. Here’s how we help:
- Confidential Enrollment: We prioritize your family’s privacy and protect personal information.
- Affordable Tuition: Our sliding-scale tuition and subsidy acceptance make child care accessible.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Our diverse and experienced team is trained to support families from all backgrounds.
A Safe Space for Every Child
Choosing child care is an important decision, and every family deserves a safe and nurturing environment. By staying informed and advocating for your family’s needs, you can find the right child care provider while feeling confident about your child’s well-being.
