complaint·October 6, 2021

***page 2*** All staff interviewed reported that all staff are required to wear mask indoors regardless of vaccination status and wear them outdoors when they come in close contact with children. Staff also reported that children are required to enter the class with a mask, extra mask are available when needed, and children are encouraged to wear the mask throughout the day. Staff reports that positive reinforcement, modeling desired behaviors, and incorporation of mask and healthy habits are a part of the child\342\200\231s daily routine. Staff reported that children are not required to wear mask during times when they are outdoors, napping, and eating. Staff reported that mask wearing guidelines were reviewed during back to school night where parents were in attendance. It was explained to parents that mask wearing would be encouraged daily, however the children would not be physically forced which would violate their personal rights. Staff added that most parents comply with the mask wearing without any challenges, other parents communicated to staff that their children just refuse to wear the mask, however, the parents will still provide a clean mask daily. Staff reported that extra efforts such as individual meetings have been conducted with parents to ensure understanding of the face mask guidelines. Parents interviewed reported COVID guidelines were explained during back to school night and it was communicated to parents that children are required to wear mask daily and staff will be encouraging them throughout the day. One parent interviewed believes that the school does not make mask wearing a priority for the children and they need better routines regarding face mask starting with the drop off routine. Other parents reported that they are satisfied with the care and supervision their children receive and added that the facility is very proactive with safety protocols and follows public health protocols for classroom closures when directed. Children interviewed reported that inside the classroom they wear a mask, their teacher wear a mask, and most of their friends wear a mask. Children added that they wear a mask inside of the classroom to keep the germs away and so they don\342\200\231t get sick. Children reported that their teacher reminds the children if they forget to put on mask. ***continued on page 3*** ***page 3*** During observations while conducting facility inspections on 8/23/21,9/8/21, and 10/6/21, LPA observed extra mask at the entrance of each classroom, majority of the children inside all classrooms were wearing a mask or had a mask on a lanyard near there face. LPA also observed all staff supervising children indoors wearing mask. The Guidance for Childcare Industry Covid-19 update guidance: Childcare Programs and providers July 17, 2020 stated: children ages 2 years and older should wear face coverings, especially when indoors or when 6-foot physical distance from others cannot be maintained. New Guidance for the use of face coverings took effect on June 15, 2021 and superseded all prior face covering guidance. It stated: The following individuals are exempt from wearing masks at all times: persons younger than 2 years old, persons with medical conditions. The Department has investigated the complaint alleging day care children are not wearing mask due to guidelines not being enforced by staff. Based on conflicting statements received during the investigation, we have found that the complaint was unsubstantiated. While the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation did or did not occur. Exit interview was conducted with director Anna Caamano. The Notice of Site Visit was posted. Facility representative was informed that the Notice of Site Visit must be posted for 30 consecutive days. Failure to post will result in civil penalties of $100. Appeal Rights explained. A copy of their appeal rights (LIC 9058) was given and signatures on this form acknowledges receipt of these rights. All appeals must be in writing and received by the licensing office within 15 business days. The first level appeal is to regional manager; address is above on the report.