Daycare should be a safe place where children can learn, play, and grow while parents are at work. But accidents do happen — and when a child is injured in a daycare setting, the worry and stress for parents can be overwhelming. This is especially true for very young children who may not yet have the words to explain what happened or how they are feeling.

In this article, we’ll look at common daycare injuries, why younger children are more vulnerable, and what steps San Diego parents can take if their child is injured while in daycare.

Why Daycare Injuries Happen

Daycare centers are busy environments. Children may fall while playing, get hurt during group activities, or be exposed to hazards if proper supervision isn’t in place. Some of the most common causes of daycare injuries include:

• Falls from playground equipment, chairs, or stairs

• Choking hazards from small toys or unsafe snacks

• Negligence such as lack of supervision or improper staff-to-child ratios

• Unsafe facilities — broken equipment, slippery floors, or hazardous materials

For children who are old enough to talk, they might tell you “my arm hurts” or “someone pushed me.” But for toddlers and infants, they can only cry or act differently — leaving parents to pick up on more subtle signs.

Special Concerns for Children Too Young to Speak

Children who are not yet verbal can’t describe pain or explain how they got hurt. Parents must rely on careful observation. Warning signs may include:

• Unexplained crying or irritability

• Changes in eating or sleeping habits

• Bruises, bumps, or scratches with no clear explanation

• Reluctance to move a part of the body (such as an arm or leg)

• Sudden fear of returning to daycare

If your child comes home with unexplained injuries or behaviors, trust your instincts. Keep track of what you notice and don’t hesitate to ask questions.

Steps to Take If Your Child is Injured at Daycare

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
   Even if the injury looks minor, have a doctor examine your child. Medical records provide documentation that may be important later.

2. Ask the Daycare for an Incident Report
   Licensed daycare centers are required to document injuries. Get a copy in writing.

3. Document Everything Yourself
   Take photos of injuries, write down dates and times, and keep records of conversations with staff.

4. Report Concerns
   In California, you can report serious safety concerns to the California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division.

5. Consider Speaking with a Personal Injury Attorney
   When negligence is involved, families may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, or other damages.

Daycare Injury Claims in San Diego

Personal injury claims involving daycare centers are not the same as simple accidents on the playground. If the daycare failed to provide proper supervision, ignored safety regulations, or failed to maintain a safe environment, they may be held legally responsible.

An experienced San Diego personal injury attorney can help investigate what happened, gather evidence, and protect your child’s rights.

Call to Action

If your child has been injured at a daycare in San Diego — especially if they are too young to explain what happened — you don’t have to navigate this alone. Our legal team at Nahama Law is here to listen, answer your questions, and help you take the next steps to protect your child’s well-being.

Contact us today for a free consultation.