Incident investigation·April 14, 2022

On 4/14/2022 @ 9:40 a.m., Licensing Program Analyst (LPA), Joelle Redding, made an unannounced visit to follow up on a self-reported incident that occurred on 4/5/22 wherein a 5 year old child (Child #1) jumped off a play structure, landing and sustaining a hairline fracture to the wrist. LPA spoke with Child #1 and examined the play structure and area where the child fell. It is age appropriate for 5 and up and the rubber chip cushioning beneath is sufficient and in good repair. Child #1 had been moving along the monkey bars and had been successful a couple times already. However, the next time around Child #1 lost grip and fell to the rubber chips underneath. The monkey bars are approximately 6-7 feet high and the child is approximately 4 feet tall. Child #1 stated that hands were out to brace the fall upon landing. Child #1 said that the teacher was standing by the swings and didn't see the fall. Child #1 walked to the teacher to tell her and she got an ice pack to apply. Child #1 did not say that it was a jump but Assistant Director Faedene Barnes stated that Child #1 described it to her, it was described as "letting go" or "jumping" off. LPA noted that the swings are approximately 20 ft from the play structure. Child #1 confirmed that there were no other children who bumped, pushed or were in the way, causing the slip. There were 10 children on the playground at the time of the incident with one teacher (Staff #1). Staff #1 was not present today, however, a written statement had been received prior, detailing the incident. Supervision, while not direct to the play structure, was in place and the ratios were met. Although this appears to be accidental as described by Child #1, additional supervision near play structures is recommended. Director stated that there are two groups with two teachers, however at that time the other teacher had taken a child to the restroom. No deficiencies are cited at this time.