At an illegal crèche in France, twelve children were found in a sweltering car parked inside a garage. French police arrested two caregivers following the discovery. This was reported by the Algemeen Dagblad and the Telegraaf based on local sources.
Unlicensed care without permits
The children were found in a vehicle packed together inside a storage garage. The exact location and circumstances surrounding the discovery have not been fully disclosed, but heat inside a closed vehicle poses a serious risk to children within minutes when temperatures exceed 20 degrees Celsius. At outside temperatures of 25 degrees, the temperature inside a car can rise to more than 50 degrees.
The crèche was found not to hold the required permits for childcare. In France, as in the Netherlands, strict rules apply to childcare facilities, including maximum capacities, safety requirements, and staff qualifications. Illegal care operates outside all oversight and offers no guarantee whatsoever for children's safety and development.
Further consequences of investigation
The two arrested caregivers face criminal prosecution. In France, operating an unregistered childcare facility can lead to prison sentences and heavy fines. Additionally, child protective services will be involved in handling the case.
What does this mean for parents?
This incident underscores the importance of careful selection when choosing childcare, also for Dutch parents: Always check the registration: In the Netherlands, all childcare organizations are required to be registered with the Landelijke Registratie Kinderopvang (LRK — National Childcare Register). Only locations with official registration are listed on Kiddie.