Incident investigation·May 22, 2025

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Jeanette Estrada conducted an unannounced case management inspection for the purpose of following up on an Unusual Incident Report (UIR) submitted to the Department. LPA met with Early Learning Center Manager Veronica Mejorado and explained the reason for the visit. There were 14 napping children present during the inspection. Early Learning Center Manager Keokuk Legarde joined at a later time. The Department received a UIR on 5/16/25 regarding an incident that occurred on 5/15/25. The incident involved Child 1 and Child 2 who were reported to be struggling over a toy. Child 1 was struck by Child 2 on the head with the toy. Child 1 was taken to the doctor by their parent and received staples on the wound. Per interviews conducted today, Staff 1 witnessed the incident and stated that they were standing at the block area next to where Child 1 and Child 2 were playing. Staff 1 heard Child 2 scream prompting them to turn and as they turned, saw that the children were in a tug -o-war position with the item and Child 2 struck Child 1 with the item within seconds. Per Staff 1, they were walking over to the two children to assist them as they witnessed the incident. Per Staff 2, they were assisting with the restrooms and witnessed Staff 1 actively supervising the area. Per Staff interviews, Child 1 was immediately provided first aid and parent was called right away. Parent picked up child within approximately 30 minutes and was provided with a written report. Facility was later informed that Child 1 received staples on the wound. Child returned on 5/19/25 with a doctor's note and no restrictions. Per Staff, they removed the item used during the incident, they review safety procedures with children and they will be attending a training on active supervision on 5/22/25. Based on interviews no deficiencies are cited today. A notice of site visit was provided and must be posted for 30 days. Exit interview conducted with Facility Representatives-Veronica Mejorado and Keokuk Lagarde. A copy of this report was provided.