CHARLOTTE -- As Charlotte continues to grow rapidly, one organization is reaching out to the increasing Latino community to help them understand the child care laws in America.

While caring for more than three children is a common practice in some Latino households, it is illegal to give care to more than three children unrelated to the caregiver in America without a license. Rules like that can be very confusing for new residents.

“Culturally, that’s what we do,” said Gexenia Pardilla, a Latino outreach specialist for Child Care Resources Inc. in Charlotte. “Grandma takes care of the children, my neighbor takes care of the kids, that’s usually what ends up happening in the Hispanic community.”

Pardilla is making it her mission to spread the word to the Latino community about the importance of obtaining a license for such situations. Child Care Resources Inc. offers two-day workshops so people can get the proper permit.

According to state law, those found operating without a license are asked to cease operations immediately, and then are investigated by the N.C. Division of Child Development. Depending on the findings, a person can face up to a $1,000 fine or a felony charge.

For more information about child care licenses or resources available for Latinos, call Child Care Resources Inc. at 704-376-6697 or click Child Care.