complaint·August 28, 2023

On 08/28/23 at 9:15 AM, Licensing Program Analysts (LPA) K. Lynch and N. Wheeler visited the center for the purpose of a closing complaint investigation visit. It was alleged staff inappropriately restrained daycare children while in care. The center self-reported the incident from 06/01/23 as both an unusual incident and as a complaint to Licensing. The Center Director was interviewed and stated staff had reported the incident to her, and she then contacted Licensing and the campus public officer. During the investigation, staff witnesses disclosed a staff had used an inappropriate method of restraint, specifically a staff member used their leg wrapped over a child keeping them on their mat during naptime. Three staff witnesses (S1-S3) gave written disclosures, and/or were interviewed, and stated they witnessed the staff with their leg over the child at naptime. Three staff gave written disclosures on 06/06/23 after the incident and two were also interviewed on 08/28/23. Five children (C1-C5) were interviewed on 06/20/23 and four parents/guardians (P1-P4) on 08/23/23 and there were no disclosures. Based on the evidence obtained, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegation is found to be substantiated. California Code of Regulations, Title 22 is cited on the attached LIC 9099D. Exit interview was conducted, notice of site visit posted, and appeal rights were provided.