🚨 A Georgia Daycare Has Lost Its License—Here’s Why
A Georgia child care facility has officially lost its license after a shocking incident involving toddlers and Benadryl.
The Caring for Kids daycare, operated by Forsyth Methodist Church, was shut down after a staff member gave the over-the-counter drug to children as young as two—without telling their parents.
Yes, you read that right.
The Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) launched an investigation and pulled the plug on the daycare’s license as of Monday, April 7.
🗣️ What DECAL Is Saying
Reg Griffin, DECAL’s chief communications officer, confirmed the license revocation, explaining that the daycare—located at 68 West Johnston Street in Forsyth—now has 10 days to appeal.
“The Center may not reopen until the appeal process is completed due to the previously issued Order of Emergency Closure,” he said.
😳 The Backstory: Benadryl At Naptime?
It all started on March 5, when a co-teacher reported seeing another staffer, Kendasja Mequia Hughley, give Benadryl to toddlers during nap time—to make them fall asleep faster.
Investigators say at least three children were given doses of the medication on two separate occasions and it was all caught on security cameras.
Hughley was arrested on March 10.
But, hold on there’s more…
👩🏽🏫 Arrests and Charges
The daycare’s director, Cathy Stevick, and another teacher, Shelby Webb, were arrested too.
- Stevick is facing three counts of failure to report child abuse, after allegedly waiting up to six days to report what happened.
- Webb is facing charges of simple battery and cruelty to children.
Let’s be real—six days is six days too long when we’re talking about the safety of babies.
⚠️ Why This Is So Dangerous
Benadryl isn’t safe for kids under six unless prescribed by a doctor and definitely not in a daycare setting.
It can cause drowsiness, slowed breathing, and other dangerous side effects.
Parents told investigators their kids seemed sluggish and “just not themselves” when they picked them up.
Now we know why.
🧭 What Georgia Parents Can Do Next
With Caring for Kids officially closed, DECAL is helping parents find safe, reliable options for Georgia child care:
- Visit qualityrated.org to search for licensed child care programs in your area.
- Call 1-877-ALL GA KIDS for free assistance in finding approved care.
- Head to decal.ga.gov for more info on Georgia’s Pre-K, CAPS, nutrition programs, and licensing updates.
💬 Let’s Talk About It
Stories like this only cause more anxiety for parents who are already leery about leaving their precious children in the hands of child care providers.
Drop your thoughts in the comments.
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