Avalon Childcare Closed After Abuse Allegations

Avalon Childcare, located on the corner of 5th Avenue and 15th Street, found itself under fire Thursday, after the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene shuttered the longtime South Slope business due to allegations of child abuse.

Video, submitted anonymously to News 12 Brooklyn purportedly shows Avalon employees “grabbing and pulling a student either by the hair or ear,” while another “depicts a teacher allegedly pushing a student to the ground.”

In a statement to NBC 4, the health department said, “It is our priority to ensure the safety of every child in our City’s daycare system. This center’s permit was suspended immediately after a Health Department investigation, and we are currently working to help families find alternative, high-quality daycare options for their children.”

A spokesperson for Avalon informed us that the employees in question have been fired, but declined to comment further.

The childcare center also made headlines in 2011, after the tragic death of a 3-month-old little boy. No foul play was suspected, and after a routine investigation, Avalon was cleared of any wrongdoing.

As a preschool parent, abuse at the hands of a trusted caregiver definitely ranks as one of my biggest fears. What are your thoughts on the allegations? If your child attends, or has attended Avalon, how would you describe your experience?