complaint·August 27, 2025

During Staff #1 and Staff #2 interviews it was disclosed that Child #1 has previous incidents of the same nature and had mentioned to administration that Child #1 required more engaging activities where a classroom change would be better suited. In addition, staff tried to ensure a teacher was always positioned near the child to prevent the biting incidents from occurring. However, it was stated that on this occasion the teacher moved away, leaving the child unsupervised for short period of time, which resulted in Child #1 was able to bite Child #2. Staff was not able to observe the child biting only once they head Child #2 react. Per Director’s interview, it was stated that the facility does not have a current written biting plan in place for Child #1 and it was only after the incident that Child #1 was moved to another classroom. During parent interviews, it was disclosed that several parents reported their children had been bitten while enrolled in both the InfantB classroom and Toddlers classroom in which Child #1 has been placed. Due to confidentiality, parents interviewed were not able to identify child that was biting; however, the feedback indicates that biting has been a recurring concern in multiple classrooms where Child #1 has been enrolled. Based on LPA’s observation, interviews and reviewing documentation, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegation is found to be substantiated. California Code of Regulations, (Title 22, Division 12, Chapter 1 101229 Responsibility for Providing Care and Supervision) are being cited on the attached LIC 9099-D. LPA’s informed Director Melissa Garcia that this report dated 8/27/25 documents 1 Type B citation, which shall be posted for 30 consecutive days as there is a potential risk to the health, safety, or personal rights of children in care. During Staff #1 and Staff #2 interviews it was disclosed that Child #1 has previous incidents of the same nature and staff tried to ensure a teacher was always positioned near the child to prevent the biting incidents from occurring. Staff stated that they provide Child #1 with teething toys when appropriate and necessary to redirect the behavior. Although staff reported that during the incident in question, the supervising teacher had moved away briefly, they immediately returned to intervene. Per Director’s interview, it was disclosed that additional teething toys have been purchased for the child and LPA observed these during the investigation. Child #1’s parent has also been provided with resources regarding biting behaviors. The director also stated that they have spoken with the parent directly to collaborate on strategies to support Child #1. During parent interviews, some reported that their child has been bitten in either the InfantB classroom or Toddler Classroom and some parents stated that staff was monitoring certain children’s behavior. However, parents also expressed that overall, they remain satisfied with the care and services their children receive at the facility due to the great communication regarding incidents from the staff. The Reporting Party (RP) stated that the injury Child #2 received was not as described by the staff. RP stated she had to go in and talk to the administration about the incident and since the incident occurred, Child #1 was transferred to another classroom. RP stated she is very happy with the facility and RP just wants to ensure the facility follows all appropriate protocols. Based on LPA’s observation, interviews and reviewing documentation, although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violations did or did not occur, therefore at this time the above allegation is unsubstantiated. Staff have demonstrated awareness of the behavior and have taken preventative measures, including providing teething toys and developed a supervision plan to mitigate Child #1’s biting. Exit interview was conducted with Director Melissa Garcia. Appeal rights were provided and discussed. Notice of site visit was provided.