Daycare Worker Allegedly Puts 4-Year-Old in Trash Can for Refusing Nap Time

The disturbing incident at a Homewood, Illinois daycare, The Learning Lab, has sparked outrage and concern among parents and the community. Surveillance footage captured a daycare employee placing a 4-year-old boy in a trash can because he refused to take a nap. The incident, which allegedly occurred on January 13th, has left the child’s parents, Monica Forte and Justin Barnes, shocked and seeking justice.

Shocking Surveillance Footage Reveals Disturbing Act

The surveillance video, obtained and shared by ABC 7 Chicago, clearly shows an employee dragging 4-year-old Grayson towards a trash can and placing him inside. Other children present at the daycare witnessed the incident, raising concerns about the potential psychological impact on all the children involved. Forte, upon viewing the footage, described her reaction as speechless and immediately reported the incident to the police.

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A stock image depicting a preschool classroom. Getty Images.

Police Investigation and Daycare Response

Despite the disturbing footage, the Homewood Police Department informed the parents that no legal action could be taken due to the lack of physical injuries sustained by Grayson. The Learning Lab reportedly fired the employee involved and another who failed to intervene. However, the parents remain deeply concerned as multiple staff members allegedly witnessed the incident without taking action or reporting it. The daycare’s response, according to a statement released to ABC 7, indicates cooperation with licensing agencies and law enforcement, along with further investigation into the matter. They also stated they attempted to work with the family openly and honestly.

Parents Seek Justice and a New Daycare

Forte and Barnes expressed gratitude to Grayson for informing them about the incident, emphasizing that the daycare should have been the first to report it. They are currently pursuing a civil lawsuit against The Learning Lab and are actively searching for a new daycare for their two sons. Beyond the legal action, the parents are worried about the lasting emotional impact on Grayson, particularly the humiliation he experienced in front of his peers. Barnes expressed concern for his son’s well-being, stating, “I’m worried about what he feels.”

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Another stock image of a preschool classroom environment. Getty Images.

The Importance of Proper Childcare Training and Protocol

This incident highlights the crucial need for comprehensive training and established protocols within daycare facilities to address challenging behaviors in children. Experts emphasize the importance of de-escalation techniques and positive reinforcement strategies to manage situations where children might resist nap time or other routines. The alleged actions of the daycare employee demonstrate a lack of appropriate training and a failure to prioritize the emotional well-being of the children under her care. Forte questioned the employee’s qualifications, stating, “If you work with kids… they should know how to deescalate these certain situations.” The employee’s alleged claim that the incident was a joke only further underscores the need for professional development and accountability in childcare settings.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Incident

Q: What happened at The Learning Lab daycare?

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A: A daycare employee allegedly placed a 4-year-old boy in a trash can for refusing to take a nap.

Q: What actions have the parents taken?

A: The parents reported the incident to the police and are considering a civil lawsuit against the daycare. They are also seeking a new daycare for their children.

Q: How did the daycare respond?

A: The daycare terminated the employment of the individuals involved and is cooperating with investigations by licensing agencies and law enforcement. They claim to have attempted to be transparent with the family.

Q: What are the long-term concerns for the child?

A: The parents are concerned about the potential long-term psychological effects of the incident on their son, particularly the humiliation he experienced. They want to ensure he understands that he did nothing wrong.

Q: What can be done to prevent similar incidents?

A: Improved training for daycare staff on de-escalation techniques, positive reinforcement strategies, and mandatory reporting protocols are essential to prevent similar incidents in the future. Increased oversight and accountability within daycare facilities are also necessary.