A daycare at Forsyth Methodist Church in Georgia has been shut down after staff allegedly gave Benadryl to toddlers without parental consent to make them drowsy at nap time. Three individuals, including the daycare’s director and two teachers, were arrested in connection with the incident.

The Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) issued an emergency closure order, citing violations that placed children in “imminent danger.” Authorities said teacher Kendasja Hughley gave Children’s Benadryl to three 2-year-olds on March 2 and March 5. A staff member reported it to management, but the daycare failed to inform parents or take disciplinary action. Instead, they instructed Hughley to document the medication use without obtaining required parental signatures.

On Monday, officials ordered an emergency closure for the Forsyth Methodist Church childcare center.

 

Georgia Daycare Shut Down After Staff Gave Toddlers Benadryl Without Consent

Hughley was arrested on charges of reckless conduct, cruelty to children, and simple battery. The daycare’s director, Cathy Stevick, was charged with failing to report child abuse, while teacher Shelby Webb was charged with simple battery and cruelty to children. Authorities said Stevick only reported the incident to DECAL after Facebook posts about it surfaced.

Parents noticed their children appeared sluggish and not acting normally. Investigators also found that staff routinely yelled at children and engaged in rough physical behavior, such as picking them up and throwing them onto their mats. Hughley has a history of disciplinary issues related to inappropriate discipline.

DECAL’s closure order will remain in effect for 21 days unless the daycare appeals.