Toddle Towne Learning Center, located in East Alton, Illinois, recently addressed a serious safety incident involving a child who fell from a second-story window.
In response, the center has implemented enhanced safety measures and is actively reviewing its safety protocols to prevent future occurrences.
Incident Details
On March 14, a child fell from a second-story window at Toddle Towne Learning Center. The child survived the fall, but specific details regarding the child’s age and current condition have not been disclosed for privacy reasons.
Susan Berry, the center’s director, described the incident, stating that the child fell through a screened window when the screen detached, leading to the fall.
Immediate Safety Enhancements
Following the incident, Toddle Towne Learning Center took swift action to bolster safety:
- Installation of Safety Bars: Bars have been added to certain windows to prevent similar accidents.
- Modification of Fire Escape Windows: While some windows serve as fire escapes and cannot be blocked, the center has disabled them from the inside to enhance safety without compromising emergency egress routes.
Ongoing Safety Review
The center is proactively revisiting all policies and procedures to identify and mitigate potential hazards. This comprehensive review aims to ensure a safe environment for all children under their care.
Community and Parental Reactions
Local community members and parents have expressed concern over the incident:
- David Wallace, a former parent: While relieved it wasn’t his own children involved, Wallace emphasized the importance of supervision and encouraged parents to review the center’s inspection records.
- Parental Assurance: Berry reassured parents that no children have been withdrawn due to safety concerns. She remains open to discussing the center’s safety measures and inspection records with any interested parties.
About Toddle Towne Learning Center
Toddle Towne Learning Center has been serving the East Alton community for nearly 50 years, offering programs for children aged six weeks to 12 years.
Operating Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., the center emphasizes a play-based learning approach, encapsulated in their motto: “Where kids play while they learn and learn while they play.”
Safety Recommendations for Parents and Caregivers
To further enhance child safety, parents and caregivers are advised to:
- Educate Children: Teach children about the dangers of windows and the importance of staying away from them without adult supervision.
- Regular Safety Audits: Periodically assess your home and childcare environments for potential hazards, ensuring that safety measures are in place and functional.
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of any safety updates or changes in childcare centers attended by your children.
Toddle Towne Learning Center’s prompt response to the recent incident reflects a strong commitment to child safety.
By implementing immediate safety measures and engaging in a thorough review of their protocols, the center aims to provide a secure and nurturing environment for all children in their care.