What must a child care facility do in the case of a missing child?

The appropriate course of action for a child care facility in the case of a missing child is to immediately initiate their emergency plan and notify authorities. This response is critical because time is of the essence when a child is unaccounted for, and quick action can significantly increase the chances of locating the child safely and swiftly.

In such situations, following established emergency protocols ensures that the situation is handled efficiently, allowing trained personnel to coordinate with law enforcement and other related agencies promptly. This response not only ensures the safety of the child but also adheres to legal requirements and best practices in child care management.

Considering other options, contacting the parents first, closing the facility, or waiting for a specified time before taking action could delay the process of finding the child and potentially put the child at greater risk, highlighting why immediate action is the best practice in these circumstances.