Burlington Child Care Center Permanently Closed Amid Abuse Probe

Vermont officials shut down Frog and Toad Child Care and Learning Center following allegations of physical abuse by a staff member.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:01pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a small child's toy, such as a stuffed animal or building block, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The harsh flash photography highlights the innocence and vulnerability of children, contrasting with the serious allegations of abuse at this shuttered child care facility.Burlington Today

A Burlington, Vermont child care center has been permanently closed following an investigation into allegations that a staff member physically abused children at the facility. Vermont's Department for Children and Families determined they would have revoked the center's license had it not already expired during the probe, which is still ongoing by the Chittenden Unit for Special Investigations.

Why it matters

The closure of the Frog and Toad Child Care and Learning Center has left dozens of families in the Burlington area scrambling to find alternative child care options, underscoring the critical need for safe and reliable child care services in the community.

The details

A former employee of the Frog and Toad Child Care and Learning Center reported witnessing a staff member hitting a child, throwing a child into a snowbank, and withholding food from children. Vermont officials temporarily shut down the center, but have now determined the closure will be permanent as their investigation continues.

  • The allegations of abuse were reported in April 2026.
  • The center was temporarily shut down last month.
  • Vermont's Department for Children and Families announced the permanent closure on April 13, 2026.

The players

Frog and Toad Child Care and Learning Center

A child care center in Burlington, Vermont that has been permanently closed amid an investigation into allegations of physical abuse by a staff member.

Vermont Department for Children and Families

The state agency that determined the Frog and Toad Child Care and Learning Center's license would have been revoked, leading to the permanent closure of the facility.

Chittenden Unit for Special Investigations

The law enforcement unit conducting an ongoing investigation into the alleged abuse at the Frog and Toad Child Care and Learning Center.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Chittenden Unit for Special Investigations said its investigation is still ongoing, so it remains to be seen whether any criminal charges will be filed in relation to the alleged abuse at the Frog and Toad Child Care and Learning Center.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical importance of thorough oversight and strict accountability measures in the child care industry to protect vulnerable young children from harm. The closure of this facility has left families in the Burlington area scrambling, underscoring the need for more investment in accessible and high-quality child care options.