VALDOSTA, Ga. (WALB) – Hidden in neighborhoods across Georgia, unlicensed daycares are caring for children without state oversight raising safety concerns for families.

According to the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL), the state has roughly 3,200 licensed centers, 1,100 family child care homes and 5,300 exempt programs, but some remain unaccounted for — operating with no inspections, training or safety standards.

Licensed childcare provider Laukik Patel, CEO of Angel Learning Center, says stronger oversight is needed to prevent tragedies in unregulated home settings.

“There’s a large optic of unlicensed childcare happening in homes,” Patel said. “Our position is we should have a stronger way to combat this industry of unlicensed in-home care because of issues we’ve recently seen that are happening in our community.”

Patel adds that many families turn to home-based care for cost or convenience, but Georgia law requires a license for anyone watching more than two children for pay.

“Our objective is not to close down in-home unlicensed care,” Patel said. “Our objective is to find a path for them to be licensed eventually. The bedrock of Georgia has always been in-home child care centers — it’s not going away.”

April Rogers, DECAL’s Child Care Services Director, says the biggest concern is the lack of accountability.

“Number one, there is no oversight,” Rogers said. “It’s the responsibility of the parent, family member or grandparent dropping them off to an unlicensed provider to provide that oversight. There are no background checks, no unannounced inspections — nothing to ensure safety.”

Patel warns that social media ads offering childcare with limited details could be a red flag. When operators continue to run after being warned, DECAL steps in.

“If an individual refuses to comply after multiple cease-and-desist orders, the case is referred to the Georgia Attorney General’s Office,” Rogers explained. “They can obtain an inspection warrant or work with local authorities to shut down the operation — which may result in criminal charges.”

DECAL enforces the principle “If you see something, say something.” Officials say this may be the only way they learn about unlicensed care in communities.

Parents are urged to verify a daycare’s license before enrolling their children by visiting QualityRated.org, calling the Quality Rated Family Support Call Center at 877-ALL-GA-KIDS or contacting DECAL at 404-656-5957.

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