Incident investigation·November 8, 2023

On November 8, 2023 at 10:20 a.m. Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Leilani Curtis conducted an unannounced inspection to follow up on a self-reported incident that occurred on 10/26/23, wherein a substitute staff member (S1) withheld food from a child (C1). Upon arrival LPA met with Director Leila Ebtekari and toured the facility. There were 11 children with 6 staff members present. Appropriate ratio/capacity was observed. Staff members have the required background clearances and are associated to the facility. LPA interviewed the director, staff #2 (S2) and staff #3 (S3). On 10/26/23 at approximately 11:00 a.m. during meal time, child #1 (C1) threw food on the floor. Staff #1 (S1) took C1’s food away and advised C1 that the food would be returned when C1 "was ready". Staff #2 (S2) intervened and assisted C1. S2 advised S1 that using negative and threatening language, and withholding food cannot be used to correct a child’s behavior. At the time of the incident there were 3 children present with S1 in classroom #2. Appropriate ratio and supervision was in place. The incident was reported to Community Care Licensing timely and the director states that the parent/guardian of C1 was notified of the incident the same day. The agency that employs S1 was notified of the incident and S1 will not return to the facility as a substitute staff member. The director also states that a staff meeting was held on 10/27/23 to discuss children’s personal rights and supervision. They also discussed the importance of ensuring that substitute staff understand how to protect the rights of children. See LIC809D for cited deficiency. An exit interview was conducted with Director Ebtekari and Appeal Rights (LIC 9058) were discussed. The director’s signature on this form acknowledges receipt of these rights. LIC 9213 NOTICE OF SITE VISIT FORM IS REQUIRED TO BE POSTED FOR 30 DAYS. LPA observed the director post notice of site visit.