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Parents Taylor Hicks and Jamal Bryant are speaking out following the tragic death of their 16-month-old son, Jamal Allen Bryant Jr., who choked on a piece of watermelon at a Georgia childcare facility. The couple has been grappling with intense grief since receiving the devastating news on Tuesday.
“Sometimes I don’t feel anything, and then the next minute, I’m breaking down again,” Hicks shared, reflecting on the emotional turmoil they have been experiencing. The couple described their son as a loving child who adored his family enjoyed dancing, and frequently cried. “He loved his family. His mom, dad, grandma. He cried a lot, loved to dance,” Hicks added.
The tragedy unfolded when Hicks and Bryant received an urgent call from the Kids Nest Learning Center in Brunswick, instructing them to rush to the hospital. Their young son had choked on a watermelon while eating at the facility. According to police reports, staff at the center attempted to assist the child before he was transported to the hospital.
The family is now questioning the facility’s readiness and responsiveness in emergencies. Inspection reports from the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning reveal that the center had previously failed to meet first aid and CPR requirements. An explanation from the state agency noted, “First aid and CPR was deferred because, during the follow-up visits, we do not evaluate all rules. It would be evaluated at the next unannounced regulatory visit.”
Since the incident, Hicks and Bryant have not received any communication from the facility’s owners. “That’s what we want going forward, like, just make sure this doesn’t happen to another child again,” Jamal Bryant said. He expressed his disappointment and urged other parents to thoroughly research childcare facilities before enrolling their children.
The Georgia Division of Family & Children Services advises parents to verify that childcare facilities are licensed, ensure that teachers are up-to-date with training requirements, and confirm that staff-to-child ratios are met. “Don’t take life for granted,” Jamal Bryant urged, emphasizing the importance of vigilance. “And hug your babies every day,” Hicks added a poignant reminder to cherish every moment with loved ones.
The heartache and quest for justice from Hicks and Bryant highlight the crucial need for accountability and adherence to safety standards in childcare environments.
