Inspector’s narrative
What the inspector wrote
On 3/11/26, at 9:30 AM, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Matthew Sapien conducted an unannounced annual random inspection of the abovementioned Family Child Care Home (FCCH). LPA met with Katie Eckman, Licensee of the FCCH, and explained the nature and purpose of the inspection. The LPA, in the company of Licensee, toured the FCCH in its entirety (inside and outside). The home is a 3 bedroom and 1 bathroom single story home. The FCCH utilizes the living room, bathroom, and front yard. The remainder of the home is excluded from childcare services. Excluded areas are made inaccessible by child safety gates and locks. At the time of the inspection, LPA observed 2 children present, none of whom were infants. Besides the Licensee, no other adults were observed in the home at the time of the inspection.
LPA observed the FCCH to be clean and orderly. The bathroom, utilized for childcare, is clean and free of toxins. LPA observed sharps in an elevated cabinet in the kitchen. Personal medications and cleaning supplies are stored in a locked cabinet in one of the bedrooms. No children currently require medication. LPA also observed a First Aid Kit in the residence with appropriate supplies.
LPA observed age-appropriate toys, furnishings, and equipment throughout the living room of the residence. LPA observed no fireplaces in the household. LPA observed a few pets on site, all of whom are vaccinated. While there are two dogs, small birds, chickens, goats, only a cat has interactions with children in care. LPA observed relevant licensing forms and documents posted prominently to a wall at the entry way of the home. LPA observed a separate carbon monoxide and smoke detector in hallway of the home. Each detector was tested at 10:16 AM and were found to be operational.
LPA observed a regulation fire extinguisher in the FCCH which was last serviced on 9/2/25. LPA reminded the Licensee to either service or purchase a regulation fire extinguisher annually. LPA reviewed the FCCH's (CONT. 809-C, Page 2)
fire/disaster drill log. The most recent disaster drill occurred on 10/16/25. Licensee informed LPA that drills are conducted six months.
As aforementioned, the front yard is accessible to children in care. The FCCH's outdoor area is enclosed by secure chain linked and wooden fencing throughout. As is the case with the interior of the FCCH, the outdoor area has age-appropriate play structures, toys, and other equipment throughout the area that can afford for robust childcare services. Licensee was reminded to replace toys and play equipment which start to degrade or are not in good repair. The footing of the exterior is made up of natural grass, dirt, and concrete pavement. LPA observed a few umbrellas that can afford shade for children in care. Licensee also attested to LPA that during the warm months of the season, children are taken outside in the morning or stay inside all day to avoid the heat. LPA observed no bodies of water present and this was confirmed with the Licensee. The Licensee attested to LPA that children are always supervised when engaged in outside activity. LPA advised the Licensee to inspect the outdoor area prior to letting children outside to ensure safety of children in care.
LPA reviewed children's records. The records are current, complete, and possessed emergency contact information and immunization records, among other relevant licensing documents and forms. The Licensee's records were also reviewed. Licensee completed their CPR/First Aid Training (EMSA approved) on 3/13/25 and their Mandated Reporter Training on 3/2/26. Licensee was reminded to renew certifications and training prior to expirations. The Licensee informed LPA that there are no firearms or ammunition that are stored on site.
The Licensee does not currently provide Incidental Medical Services (IMS) or administer medication to children in care. For IMS information see PIN 22-02CCP. When any IMS is provided, a Plan for Providing IMS must be submitted to the Department. The following information regarding ADA was provided: US Department of Justice (USDOJ) toll-free ADA Information Line at (800) 514-0301 (voice) or (800) 514-0383 (TTY) and link to publication: Commonly Asked Questions about Family Child Care Homes and the ADA, available at:
http://www.ada.gov/childqanda.htm
.
LPA discussed the safe sleep regulations with Licensee and discussed the Child Care Licensing Safe Sleep webpage at
https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/child-care-licensing/public-information-and-resources/safe-sleep
as an additional resource. The Licensee does not currently care for infants 24 months and under. LPA also informed Licensee of the importance of checking for recalled infant devices on the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website at
https://www.cpsc.gov/
and recommended they register all infant (CONT. 809-C, Page 3)
devices with the CPSC to be notified of any recalls on their purchased equipment.
Licensee was reminded that all adults 18 and over living in the home, persons who provide care and supervision to children, and staff who have contact with children, 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 licensed Family Child Care Home. 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.
During today's inspection, no citations were issued.
During the exit interview, the Licensee confirmed that there are no Registered Sex Offenders living in the facility when the LPA completed an RSO profile in FAS on 3/11/26.
A notice of site visit was given and must remain posted for 30 days. Appeal rights were also given and signature on this form acknowledges receipt of these rights. Exit interview was conducted and report was reviewed with the Licensee, Katie Eckman.