LETTER: UNM Childcare worth the wait, mother says

Editor,

After reading the Sept. 18 letter to the editor regarding UNM daycare leaving a child hungry, I have to respond.

I personally don't feel UNM Childcare would allow a child to go hungry. I speak from experience as my daughter is also at UNM daycare and I feel very lucky to have her there. After two daycares and more than a year on the waiting list to get into UNM, I am elated to have her at such a fine facility.

I welcome anyone to log onto the UNM Childcare Web site and see the variety of healthy foods they offer the children every day. They offer breakfast, lunch and a snack to every child each day. They also have a vegetarian plan for parents who choose that option for their child. I really, truly find it hard to believe your child couldn't possibly find one thing to his liking on the menu. If graham crackers and pretzels are the only thing he liked, it's not UNM's fault but the parent for allowing a child to be so picky with his food. Maybe you will feel better at another facility that allows you to feed him what he wants.

It is a shame you don't find UNM to your standards as it is one of the top daycares in the state. In reference to your comment about the dignity of other children - my daughter walks out of UNM Childcare every day with her dignity intact, thank you very much.

The two spaces you vacated allows for two other lucky children who have been waiting to have the chance to attend UNM daycare the opportunity to do so.

Karen McElveny

UNM Staff