Routine inspection·May 18, 2026

On May 18, 2026, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Van met with Director Chantal Maher for an unannounced annual inspection. The purpose of the inspection was explained, and access to the center was granted. This is a parent cooperative program. Upon entering the facility, it was observed that the children were having outdoor activities. The director and three teachers were supervising 16 children, and the facility was in compliance with staff ‑ to ‑ child ratios. All staff present had verified criminal record clearances through the CDSS Guardian Background Check system. The facility operates Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with some children staying until 4:00 p.m. for extended care. LPA began the walkthrough by reviewing the manual sign ‑ in and sign ‑ out system. All parents signed in using complete signatures, and the number of signatures matched the number of children present. The facility was well-maintained with proper heating, lighting, and ventilation. Inside the classrooms, LPA observed appropriate toys and educational materials. Toys, floors, and tables were clean, safe, non ‑ toxic, and in good condition. The facility had a combination carbon monoxide and smoke detector, fully charged fire extinguishers, and operational telephones. Hazardous substances, including cleaning agents and poisons, were stored out of children’s reach. Each child had an individual cubby, and all emergency equipment was secure and locked. According to the director, there are currently no children who require medication. However, if children require medication, it is stored in the backpack or refrigerator, out of children's reach. Continued on page 2. page 2. LPA observed a large fish tank located in the corner of the classroom. Inside the tank, LPA observed a ball python. The enclosure was noted to have a secure, fitted lid that was fully closed at the time of the inspection. The tank was positioned so that children could not access, open, reach, or come into contact with the animal. LPA discussed with the director the importance of keeping the enclosure secured at all times to ensure continued safety. All children’s toilets and handwashing sinks were in good working condition and properly sanitized. A separate bathroom was available for staff use. No bodies of water were observed on the premises. Drinking water was available to children both indoors and outdoors. Food preparation areas were clean. The center provides morning snacks, and full‑day children bring lunches from home. Food was appropriately stored and refrigerated as needed, and no contaminated food was observed. The outdoor playground was safe and free from hazards. Equipment and surfaces were well maintained, and wood chip cushioning was present beneath climbing structures and play equipment to soften falls and provide additional protection. LPA observed all required postings, including the facility license, Notification of Parent Rights, Personal Rights, Car Seat Law, Emergency Disaster Plan, waiver, and daily activity schedule. A review of children’s and staff records was conducted. Children’s files contained immunizations, admission agreements, emergency contact information, and personal rights forms. All co-op parents had TB clearance on file. Staff records showed clearances or exemptions for criminal records and the child abuse index. At least one staff member has valid CPR certification. All staff members have the required ECE units and valid mandated reporter training certificates. During the inspection, LPA reminded the director that the center’s annual fee is due in June 2026. LPA also provided the director with the online PIN needed to submit the payment electronically. The director stated that the center conducts fire and earthquake drills at least once every six months; the most recent drills were conducted on May 1, 2026. Continued on page 3. page 3. The Director was reminded that all adults 18 and over, including employees and volunteers, except as specified in Health and Safety Code section 1596.871, must obtain a criminal record clearance or exemption, or transfer their existing clearance or exemption, prior to initial presence in a Child Care Center. A civil penalty of $100.00 minimum/day for a maximum of 5 days or, if the penalty is for a repeat violation, for a maximum of 30 days per person will be assessed if this regulation is violated. Assembly Bill (AB) 2370, Chapter 676, Statutes of 2018, requires all licensed Child Care Centers (CCCs) constructed before January 1, 2010, to test their water (used for drinking and food preparation) for lead contamination before January 1, 2023, and then every 5 years after the date of the first test. LPA verified that the lead testing was completed in accordance with the Written Directives outlined in PIN 21-21.1-CCP. Incidental Medical Services (IMS) policy was discussed. For IMS information see PIN 22-02-CCP. When any IMS is provided, an updated Plan of Operation that includes IMS must be submitted to the Department. ADA information was provided, including the USDOJ toll-free ADA Information Line and the link to “Commonly Asked Questions about Child Care Centers and the ADA.” The Director was informed of the MyChildCarePlan.org website, a consumer education website that helps families obtain child care by connecting them to child care providers and Resource and Referral Agencies throughout California. LPA discussed Child Abuse Mandated Reporter Training AB1207 with the Director. As of January 1, 2018, all staff must complete Mandated Reporter Training every two years. The training can be obtained online at www.mandatedreporterca.com . Pesticide regulations were discussed with the Site Director. In accordance with the Healthy Schools Act, California law requires that anyone using any pesticide must be trained every year in integrated pest management and the safe use of pesticides around children. A free one-hour online course is available on the Department of Pesticide Regulation's website. To improve the quality and value of the new inspection process, a survey may be sent to the email address provided. If you have any questions regarding the process or CARE tools, email inquiries may be sent to inspectionprocess@dss.ca.gov. Additional information is available on the Program website. A notice of site visit was given and must remain posted for 30 days. Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with the Director, Chantal Maher.