Tension at Crèche des Fées

For several months, the atmosphere has become tense around the Crèche des Fées in Puteaux, a daycare center for young children. Parents have expressed growing concerns about the safety and quality of care provided to their children.

Parents' concerns

Bastien, whose son attends the facility, told Le Parisien that he no longer feels "completely at ease." Last spring, parents had already learned of an infant who may have been left alone in a dormitory on a Friday evening, raising initial concerns about the daycare's practices.

Alleged unsafe sleeping conditions

Another situation reignited their concerns. On June 22, during a period of high temperatures, several children aged 14 to 16 months would have been placed on the floor during nap time. The union claims to have evidence of this.

Union's findings

The National Union of Professionals in Early Childhood (SNPPE) states it can document this incident. "Several were lying side by side on mats or mattresses," the union told Le Parisien. It added that "at least one of them was directly placed on the floor."

Inspection and safety concerns

During a visit on September 14, a union representative reportedly observed the presence of beds and mattresses stored in an overcrowded basement as well as an exposed electrical cable. Two days later, the SNPPE reported the matter to the Maternal and Infant Protection (PMI), leading to an inspection.

City's response

The city of Puteaux assures it conducts checks on the daycare. Although the crèche belongs to the municipality, its operation has been entrusted to the private sector since 2013. This arrangement has led the SNPPE to question the follow-up of this public service delegation.

City's inspection practices

Contacted by Le Parisien, the city of Puteaux stated it has "nothing to hide" and explained it carries out about four unannounced inspections per year. The municipality says it has observed a staffing ratio higher than the regulatory requirements.

Penalties and employee turnover

It admits, however, that it has already applied "some penalties" to the service provider, notably due to maintenance issues or failure to carry out certain planned activities. The city also notes a significant turnover within the teams, a phenomenon that parents also regret.

Employee dismissals

According to Le Parisien's information, at least three employees have recently been fired. The management accuses them of repeated delays or of eating ice cream in the living areas during the heatwave. The crèche manager did not respond to the newspaper's requests.

Dispute over employee actions

However, the SNPPE disputes any connection between these procedures and the sleeping conditions of the children on June 22. "None of the grievances attributed to these employees relate to the sleeping conditions of June 22," said Cyrille Godfroy.

Awaiting inspection results

Families now await the outcome of the PMI inspection. A meeting between the management and a delegation of parents is also planned, which may provide further clarity on the issues raised.