Complaint·November 3, 2023

On 7/26/23, a child sustained first degree and second degree burns on the bottoms of the feet while in care. Facility staff admitted to not noticing that Child #1 (C1) took off their shoes and socks and continued to play while barefoot on the artificial turf grass during playtime in almost 90-degree weather. Staff interviewed admitted they were aware that the toddler children often take their shoes and socks off while in care. Staff #3 (S3) stated, “It is non-stop that they take off their shoes the entire day”. Staff #4 (S4) stated, the children take off their shoes “every day”. Staff stated that they are required to check weather conditions however, they failed to check the current temperature before going outside to play. Staff reported the toddlers were outside on the toddler yard from approximately 10:30 am – 11:30 am on 7/26/23. Staff stated at the time of the incident, there were 3 staff on the toddler yard supervising approximately 14-15 toddlers. Staff admitted to being neglectful and recognized that the injuries of C1 could have been prevented if they had properly supervised the children. During interviews, Staff #2 admitted that they usually walk around the play yard, but due to hot temperatures they were “hanging” around the side gate entrance where there was shade. The toddler yard is rectangular shaped with multiple plastic play structures along the length of the yard. According to interviews the staff were stationed on one end of the toddler yard, where there was shade. Staff #4 stated "We were sitting down in the shade". Staff #4 also stated “Where we were sitting, we couldn’t see all the kids. Probably we weren’t supervising that well. When one of the teacher’s said lunch was ready, we lined them up and (Staff #2) was left with (Child #1) and they were picking up all the shoes and putting them in the basket. I was already inside but I heard (Child #1) crying outside. When I saw (Child #1) they were jumping up and down (alternating their feet) on the fake grass, and crying. I told (Staff #2), “Child #1 is burning their feet” and I picked (Child #1) up". Staff stated Child #1 was not wearing any shoes or socks at that time. Based on Investigator and LPA observations, interviews which were conducted, and record review, 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, are being cited on the attached LIC 9099D Page 2 of 3 LPA Lilli Babcock informed facility representative Maribeth Peralta that this report dated 11/3/23 documents 1 Type A citation which shall be posted for 30 consecutive days as there is immediate risk to the health, safety, or personal rights of children in care. Also, LPA Lilli Babcock informed the facility representative to provide a copy of this licensing report dated 11/3/23 that documents any Type A citation to parents/guardians of all children currently enrolled by the next business day or the next day the children are in care, and to any newly enrolled parents/guardians for 12 months from the date of this report. A signed Acknowledgement of Receipt of Licensing Report (LIC 9224), or other written statement, must be placed in the child's file for verification. A notice of site visit was given and must remain posted for 30 days. Failure to comply with posting requirements shall result in an immediate civil penalty of $100. Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with Director, Maribeth Peralta. Page 3 of 3