Routine inspection·March 11, 2025

On 3/11/25, at 11:55 AM, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Matthew Sapien conducted an unannounced Random Inspection of the abovementioned Child Care Center (CCC). LPA met with Maggie Bereda, Director and Owner of the CCC, and explained the nature and purpose of the inspection. The LPA, in the company of the Director, toured the interior and exterior of the CCC. The CCC utilizes three classrooms (Science Room, Dramatic Play Room, and Great Room), one restroom, and backyard play area. The remainder of the building (staff bathroom and kitchen) are excluded from childcare services. The CCC's hours of operation are 7:30 AM until 5:30 PM Monday through Friday. During the inspection, LPA observed a total of 19 children in care along with 2 additional staff members who are cleared and associated. The three classrooms that the CCC utilize are clean and orderly. Each classroom has age-appropriate books, equipment, and other furnishings for children in care. The classrooms contain a number of closets, cabinets, and other storage containers for childcare equipment and other related items. The Science Room possesses a fish tank, a cage for a tortoise, and an additional container for a guinea pig. The CCC's bathroom, which possesses 3 sinks and 3 toilets, was clean, orderly, and rid of any hazardous items for children in care. Bathroom cabinets contain common bathroom items that aren't toxic to children. As mentioned prior, the CCC houses a staff only bathroom and kitchen. The kitchen contains an operational refrigerator which contains some food items for staff. Again, this area is an area that is off limits for children, however, children pass through this area when accessing the backyard area. Director informed LPA that children bring snacks and lunches from home. There is available drinking water for children at the CCC via a 5-gallon water dispenser. Children also bring water bottles to the CCC from home to drink with. The CCC also supplies paper cups for children. CCCs constructed before 1/1/20, are supposed to test their water (used for drinking and food preparation) for lead contamination before 1/1/23, and then every 5-years except after the date of the first test. For child (CONT. LIC 809-C, Page 2). care center licenses issued after 7/1/22, the licensee shall test their water for lead within 180 days of licensure pursuant to Written Directives section 101700 (PIN 21-21.1-CCP). LPA verified that the lead testing was completed in accordance to the Written Directives outlined in PIN 21-21.1-CCP. LPA observed daily routine calendars, required notices, and other relevant licensing documents posted prominently near the kitchen of the CCC. Director informed LPA that children's sign in and sign out forms are completed through the Bright Wheel application. LPA observed a carbon monoxide detector in the Great Classroom. The detector was tested at 12:08 PM and was found to be operational. Cleaning compounds and sharps are stored in elevated kitchen cabinets. No children at the CCC currently require medication. LPA also observed a number of First Aid kits within the CCC that contains gloves, band aids, and other appropriate supplies. The outdoor playground area is enclosed by secure wooden and metal fencing throughout. A wooden gate is also present within the outdoor area. The fence’s entry and exit gates are secure and furnishings in the area are age appropriate. The play structures in the outdoor play area have adequate cushioning material (sand) to absorb falls. The footing of the exterior is varied (concrete pavement, black top, natural grass, and sand). Shade is provided by structure overhangs and trees throughout. LPA observed two wooden outbuildings in the backyard. Each of these outbuildings are made inaccessible via locks. LPA observed a number of animals within the CCC. The CCC possesses 3 cats, a guinea pig, tortoise, and fish. Director informed LPA that animals are up to date on their vaccinations. Director also attested that children are always supervised while outside and that the outdoor area is inspected prior to letting children outside. A sampling of staff and children's records were reviewed. The children’s records were complete and were found to contain emergency contact information as well admission agreements, among other relevant licensing documents and forms. Staff records were reviewed and contained current pediatric CPR and First Aid certifications (EMSA approved). Facility records show the last fire drill on site occurred on 12/6/24. LPA reminded Director that disaster drills are required every six months by the Department. LPA confirmed that there are no bodies of water, firearms, or ammunition that are stored on site. This facility does not currently provide Incidental Medical Services – IMS or administer medication to children in care. For IMS information see PIN 22-02-CCP. The following information regarding ADA was provided: US (CONT. 809-C, Page 3) Department of Justice (USDOJ) toll-free ADA Information Line at (800) 514-0301 (voice) or (800) 514-0383 and link to publication Commonly Asked Questions about Child Care Centers and the ADA are available at: https://www.ada.gov/resources/child-care-centers/ . Facility representative was reminded that all adults 18 and over, including employees and volunteers, as specified in HSC 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. Facility representative 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 (R&Rs) throughout California. To improve the quality and value of the new inspection process, a survey may be sent to the email address provided. Please complete the survey and share your inspection experience. If you have any questions regarding the process or CARE tools, please send email inquiries to inspectionprocess@dss.ca.gov. For additional information regarding the inspection and its tools and methods, please visit the Program website at www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/community-care-licensing/inspection-process . During today's visit, no deficiencies were issued. Director was provided a copy of their appeal rights (LIC 9058) and their signature on this form acknowledges receipt of these rights. A notice of site visit was given and must remain posted for 30 days. Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with the Facility representative, Maggie Bereda.