Routine inspection·April 8, 2025

On 4/08/25, at 1:24 PM, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Joaquin Mendez conducted an unannounced Annual Random inspection and capacity increase visit of the abovementioned Family Childcare Home (FCCH). LPA met with Miriam Alvarado, Licensee and Evelia Castillo, Assistant (S1) of the FCCH, and explained the nature and purpose of the inspection. The Licensee is requesting a capacity increase from 8 children (small license) to 14 children (large license). LPA observed appropriate licensing forms and documents posted prominently to a bulletin board at the entry of the FCCH. At the time of inspection there were the licensee, S1, and six (6) children in care. LPA notes two (2) of the children in care are infants. LPA notes the licensee was not home at start of inspection due to picking up a child from school. The licensee arrived at 2:40 PM. LPA reminded the licensee that 20% of operating hours may be used to run errands and the licensee must be present the following 80% percent of the operating hours. If the licensee leaves the FCCH; they must be left with a qualified adult in care. The LPA, in the company of Licensee, toured the interior and exterior of the FCCH. The FCCH consist of three bedrooms, a living room (converted into playroom), dining room, kitchen, two (2) bathrooms, and garage. The living room (converted play area), bathroom in the hallway, and the homes backyard are utilized for childcare services, while the remainder is excluded (three bedrooms, second bathroom, and garage). LPA observed a gate at the entrance of the kitchen preventing access; additionally, the bedrooms have safety doorknob covers, further preventing access. LPA observed the FCCH to be orderly and clean. \302\267 The bathroom, utilized for childcare services, was observed to have shampoos and soaps accessible to Continue on LIC809C pg2 children in care. (See LIC809D) \302\267 Cleaning compounds were observed in various areas of the home: under the sink in the kitchen, on an elevated shelf in the playroom, inaccessible to children in care. \302\267 Medication is in the elevated locked cabinet in the hall and inaccessible. \302\267 LPA observed toys, books, furnishings, and other age-appropriate equipment throughout the interior (living room area/ playroom) of the FCCH. \302\267 LPA observed and tested the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors within the living room of the FCCH. The smoke and carbon monoxide detectors were tested at 1:53 PM and found to be operational. \302\267 LPA also observed a regulation fire extinguisher in the FCCH, which was purchased on 8/14/24. LPA reminded the Licensee to service or purchase a regulation fire extinguisher yearly. \302\267 When reviewing records LPA notes the most recent fire and earthquake drill occurred on 2/11/25. LPA reminded the licensee that the disaster drills must be conducted every 6 months per regulation. LPA observed the backyard area to be fully fenced by wood. The playground is made up of varying surfaces (concrete pavement and grass for cushioning). Licensee informed LPA that children are always supervised when engaged in outdoor activities. \302\267 LPA observed a gated area in the backyard inaccessible. Inside the inaccessible area is a BBQ and yard tools. \302\267 Like the interior of the FCCH, the backyard has age-appropriate equipment and play structures throughout the area that can appropriately afford for childcare services. \302\267 LPA also observed and confirmed that there are no bodies of water on site. 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 viewed. Continue on LIC809C pg3 \302\267 The Licensee\342\200\231s Pediatric CPR and First Aid certifications (EMSA approved) expiring on 4/27/26. \302\267 Mandated Reporter Training, expiring on 7/19/25, is current and complete as are other relevant licensing forms and documents. Licensee was reminded to renew certifications and training prior to expirations. \302\267 The Licensee verbally stated that there are no firearms or ammunition stored on site. Because the licensee Mariam Alvarado rents the home, proof of landlord notification is required. The LPA observed the Property Owner/Landlord Notification form (LIC9151) that the applicant confirms was provided to the property owner/landlord. The applicant obtained a signed Property Owner/Landlord Consent form (LIC 9149). The licensee does not currently provide medication or Incidental Medical Services (IMS) to current children in care. IMS policy was discussed. 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 Child Care Centers 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. No prohibited equipment will be allowed or used in the home. No baby bouncers, No infant walkers, No Johnny jumpers, No saucer chairs, No trampolines and any other item that falls into that category are not permitted in the facility. 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 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 Continue on LIC809C pg4 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 the exit interview, the Licensee confirmed that there are no Registered Sex Offenders living in the facility when the LPA completed a RSO profile in FAS on 4/08/25. On 3/05/2025, the Licensee submitted documentation for a FCCH change of capacity. The Licensee is seeking to change the FCCH\342\200\231s capacity from 8 (Small FCCH) to 14 (Large FCCH). The Santa Maria Fire Department granted a fire clearance following an inspection completed at FCCH on 3/19/2025. Today, A type B deficiency was cited under Title 22 Division 12 Appeal rights given. An LIC809D was issued for soap and shampoos in the children\342\200\231s bathroom. LPA reminded the licensee the importance of maintaining a safe and secure area for children in care. A Plan of Correction (POC) will be sent by the licensee to LPA Mendez to email provided ( Joaquin.Mendez@dss.ca.gov ) by the end of business day 4/18/2025. The home meets Title 22 of CCR provisional requirements for a Large Family Childcare license effective today. Effective date of license is today 4/08/2025. A notice of site visit was given to applicant and must remain posted on, or immediately adjacent to, the interior side of the main door for 30 days. Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with the licensee, Mariam Alvarado.