Child Care Giant Let Some Staff Work Without Full Vetting, Records Show

NYT Homepage

by Ed Shanahan

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Child Care Giant Let Some Staff Work Without Full Vetting, Records Show Bright Horizons, a leading child care provider, has come under scrutiny after inspectors discovered instances where staff members were working in classrooms without completing all required background checks. This revelation raises concerns about the safety and security of children in their care. While the company maintains that such cases are rare and often involve temporary staff or incomplete processes, critics argue that this oversight could pose significant risks to vulnerable children. The issue appears to stem from internal policies that may have been circumvented or overlooked during periods of high staffing demand, particularly amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Inspectors identified several cases where employees were allowed to begin working before all necessary background checks, including criminal history and reference verifications, were fully completed. Bright Horizons has since acknowledged the findings and is reviewing its hiring protocols to prevent future occurrences. This matter highlights the critical importance of thorough vetting in child care facilities, as any lapse can have serious consequences for children’s well-being. Parents and guardians rely on such institutions to maintain high standards of safety and accountability. The case underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and robust oversight mechanisms to ensure that all staff members meet established background check requirements before interacting with children. For readers interested in news and child welfare, this story emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in industries responsible for the care of minors. While Bright Horizons has taken steps to address the issue, the incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with inadequate vetting processes and the need for continuous improvement in safeguarding practices.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/26/2026