Helping Latinos with child care laws
As Charlotte continues to grow rapidly, one
organization is reaching out to the increasing Latino community to help
them understand the child care laws in America.
While caring for more than three children is a common practice
in some Latino households, it is illegal to give care to more than
three children unrelated to the caregiver in America without a license.
Rules like that can be very confusing for new residents.
“Culturally, that’s what we do,” said Gexenia Pardilla, a
Latino outreach specialist for Child Care Resources Inc. in Charlotte.
“Grandma takes care of the children, my neighbor takes care of the
kids, that’s usually what ends up happening in the Hispanic community.”
Child care laws differ by country. Pardilla is making it her
mission to spread the word to the Latino community about the importance
of obtaining a license for such situations. Child Care Resources Inc.
offers two-day workshops so people can get the proper permit.
According to state law, those found operating without a
license are asked to cease operations immediately, and then are
investigated by the N.C. Division of Child Development. Depending on
the findings, a person can face up to a $1,000 fine or a felony charge.
Full text available at News14.com