Incident investigation·September 8, 2023

On 9/7/2023, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Ocegueda conducted an unannounced case management inspection for the purpose of addressing an Unusual Incident that was reported to the Department on 8/25/2023. LPA met with Site Supervisor Arlene Villalobos, toured the facility and took a census. On 8/25/2023 at approximately 10:10 AM, it was reported that child #1 was avoiding wanting to wash his/her hands at the sink when he/she suddenly darted off to the front door pushing it open. LPA confirmed through record review that there were 16 children present along with Site Supervisor and three fully qualified teachers during the morning session. Staff #1 who reportedly had a clear line of vision of child #1, chased after him/her as soon as child#1 ran towards the front door. Staff #1 caught him approximately 4 ft away from the front door. It was reported that child #1 did not go into the parking lot and instead began to run against the outer wall of the facility, near the window. Child #1 was brought back inside the facility immediately. Site Supervisor stated that at pick up, she met with parent privately and parent was notified of this incident. LPA recommended that written documentation also be provided to parent and kept in child’s file. Today, the incident was discussed with Site Supervisor Arlene Villalobos. Site Supervisor reported that since the incident occurred, the staff is working with child on this behavior by providing reminders about safety and managing feelings as child tends to have some difficulty around separating from his/her parent upon drop off, causing him/her to want to chase after parent. A portable table is being used as a barrier on each of the two exits (the front exit leading to the parking lot and the back exit that leads to the enclosed play yard). The doors each have a loud chime that sounds off when each of the doors open. Child #1 is receiving close monitoring and staff stay near by him/her throughout the day. Report continued to 809-C LPA suggested that the facility representative consult with their local Fire Inspection Authority to consult on whether a baby gate at the front exit would be allowable in accordance with fire safety requirements. After reviewing all information and discussing the incident with Site Supervisor, it was determined that this was an isolated incident and not a result of lack of care and supervision. LPA conducted an exit interview with Site Supervisor Villalobos. Per California Code or Regulations (CCR), Title 22, Division 12, Chapter 1, no deficiencies are cited today. LIC 9213 was provided and must be posted for 30 days.