Psychologist Devi Yanti, in her remarks to Antara News Agency, stressed that parents should pay special attention when selecting childcare facilities. She emphasized the necessity of ensuring that the chosen place is registered and has the required licenses from the relevant authorities.
Yanti explained that transparency in providing childcare services is one of the fundamental factors parents should consider. The facility should be open to surprise visits from parents, and it is preferable to have surveillance cameras that parents can access.
Details of the Recommendations
Yanti urged parents to consult with other parents who have previous experiences with childcare centers and to look for reviews of these places online, such as Google Maps reviews and social media feedback. She pointed out the importance of knowing the ratio of caregivers to children, recommending one caregiver for every three to four children to ensure quality care.
She also advised visiting the facility in person to check the quality of the amenities, cleanliness, proper ventilation, and room sizes. These steps help parents make an informed decision about where to leave their children.
Background & Context
These recommendations come amid growing concerns about children's safety in childcare centers, especially following the unfortunate incident in Yogyakarta in April 2026, where it was discovered that children in one of the centers were subjected to abuse. This incident sparked widespread debate about the need to improve the licensing and monitoring system for these institutions.
Historically, many countries have faced similar issues related to childcare, prompting governments to take stricter measures to ensure children's safety. In Indonesia, this topic is of significant concern, as the government seeks to enhance safety standards in childcare facilities.
Impact & Consequences
Yanti asserts that unfortunate incidents like the Yogyakarta case represent a significant betrayal of parental trust and highlight the system's failure to protect children. Therefore, it is crucial for authorities to take urgent steps to improve monitoring and inspection mechanisms for childcare centers.
Such incidents also impact the psychological well-being of children and their families, potentially leaving negative effects on children's social and emotional development. Hence, there must be a swift response from the relevant authorities to ensure that such incidents do not recur.
Regional Significance
Childcare issues are sensitive topics worldwide, including in Arab countries. Parents face similar challenges in finding safe places for their children. Therefore, sharing experiences and advice between countries can contribute to improving the level of care provided to children.
In conclusion, parents must be cautious and conduct thorough research before deciding on childcare facilities to ensure their children's safety and provide them with a healthy and secure environment.