Know Your Rights

Attention Child Care Providers:

Below is a PDF guide titled “Know Your Rights as a Child Care Business.” It helps California providers understand their legal rights and protections, including how to control access, respond to harassment or unwanted recording, and protect children, staff, and families.

The guide explains:

• Who can legally enter your facility

• Who needs permission to enter

• What to do if someone refuses to leave

• Your rights on photography and recording

• How to document, record, and report incidents

• Legal remedies: trespass, invasion of privacy, civil harassment restraining orders

• Protections against online harm: doxing, defamation, libel, slander

• Remedies for emotional or economic harm

• How to interact with ICE and understand warrants

• Recommended policies for access, visitors, and recording

• Sample signage for your facility

• Additional resources and legal assistance

Child care facilities are private property. Providers control access to protect children, families, and staff. Use clear policies, post signage, train staff, and document incidents to enforce your rights. Review, download, and share the guide with staff and other child care professionals.

For legal assistance, contact Public Counsel’s Early Care & Education Law Unit at 213-385-2977, ext. 300 or visit: https://publiccounsel.org/about-us/contact-us/