Melatonin Use in Daycares
The growing use of melatonin in some daycare centers has sparked concern among parents, pediatricians, and child advocates, prompting calls for stricter regulation and transparency. Parents across the country are speaking out after discovering their children were given the sleep aid without their knowledge or consent during scheduled nap times.
Melatonin, a hormone naturally produced by the body to regulate sleep, is available over the counter in the United States and is commonly used as a supplement to treat sleep disorders or jet lag. While often marketed as a safe and natural remedy, experts warn that it is not without risks—especially when used in young children.
“I was shocked,” said Jessica Ramirez, a mother in Chicago who learned from another parent that her 3-year-old son had been given melatonin at a local daycare. “No one told me. There was no permission slip, no discussion. I had no idea they were using anything to help the kids sleep.”
Ramirez is not alone. In recent months, several parents in different states have come forward with similar experiences. Some said they only learned about the supplement’s use after their children mentioned “gummy vitamins” at nap time, prompting further investigation.
Medical professionals stress that while melatonin may be generally safe in short-term, age-appropriate doses, it should never be given to children without parental consent and proper medical guidance.
“Melatonin is a hormone, not a vitamin. It’s not something to be used casually, especially in developing children,” said Dr. Karen Lowe, a pediatric sleep specialist. “The fact that some caregivers are giving it without any medical oversight or parental approval is deeply troubling.”
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not currently regulate melatonin as a medication—it is sold as a dietary supplement, which means manufacturers are not required to prove its safety or efficacy before marketing. This regulatory gap is now coming under renewed scrutiny as daycare cases come to light.
Many parents are calling for urgent policy changes.
“There needs to be clear legislation that prohibits daycares from administering any kind of supplement without explicit parental permission,” said Mark Thomas, a father in Denver. “This is about trust. We’re leaving our children in someone else’s care, and we expect transparency and accountability.”
Some states have begun reviewing their daycare licensing standards in response to the public outcry. However, as of now, there is no nationwide policy specifically addressing melatonin use in childcare settings.
In the meantime, advocates are urging parents to ask direct questions when choosing a daycare and to read all policies carefully.
“Parents should ask if any sleep aids are used—natural or otherwise,” said child safety advocate Dana Brooks. “And providers need to be held to a higher standard when it comes to children’s health.”
As the debate continues, families are left with lingering questions—and a sense of betrayal from institutions they thought they could trust.
