Follow-up on corrections·November 20, 2025

An unannounced case management visit was made to the facility by Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Y. Yang to address observations made during a previous, unrelated visit on 11/14/25. During today’s visit, the LPA met with the center director, Nicole Del Calvo. During the LPA’s visit to the facility on 11/14/25, the LPA conducted a tour of the indoor and outdoor areas with Director Del Calvo. While inspecting the main play yard, the LPA and Director observed that the facility’s Little Tikes plastic play structure was not in safe operating condition. Upon closer inspection, the LPA noted that a metal cylindrical pin, approximately four feet in length, which is intended to secure a section of the play structure’s interlocking plastic panels to the frame, had become loose. The pin was protruding several inches above its proper, flush position and was located in an area accessible to children. The LPA was able to lift and remove the pin using only three fingers, indicating that the component was not securely attached and posed a safety hazard. The metal pins are designed to hold walls, platforms, or slides securely to the frame. These pins typically slide down through aligned holes in multiple components and should sit flush when fully inserted. When properly installed, these pins prevent pieces from separating or shifting. The condition of the current play structure is not in compliance with California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Section 101239(o), which requires that: “Playground equipment shall be securely anchored to the ground unless it is portable by design. (1) Equipment shall be maintained in a safe condition, free of sharp, loose, or pointed parts.” Additionally, the LPA observed that the plastic pyramid-shaped roof component of the play structure was no longer securely attached to the metal frame. The roof component is designed to be secured to the frame by two tamper-proof bolts; however, the LPA noted that one of the bolts was no longer fastened to the frame. As a result, the roof component was unstable and the LPA was able to lift the roof using one hand, demonstrating that it was not properly secured. The roof is positioned approximately eight feet above the ground, and the Director expressed concern that, due to its looseness, the roof could become detached or blown off during strong wind gusts, posing a safety hazard to children and staff. (Continued on LIC809-C) Loose pins or bolts on a play structure pose an immediate health and safety risk because they compromise the structural stability of the equipment. When components such as walls, platforms, or roofs are not securely fastened, they can shift, detach, or collapse during use. This creates the potential for children to be struck by falling parts, pinched between shifting components, or fall from elevated surfaces if the structure becomes unstable. In addition, unsecured parts, particularly metal pins or elevated roof components, can become projectile hazards if dislodged by force or wind. Because children routinely climb, pull, and place weight on these structures, any loose or missing fastener presents an immediate hazard requiring prompt correction. Although no children were present on the playground at the time of the inspection, the Director stated that the play structure was being used daily by children ages two to five. This age range is consistent with the manufacturer’s recommended age range. During the inspection, the LPA was unable to locate a manufacturer’s label, serial number, or model number on the play structure. Photographs were taken for documentation purposes. The Director acknowledged the LPA’s safety concerns and agreed that the issues must be addressed immediately. As an interim safety measure, the Director restricted access to the play structure by using tape to block off the play structure and the climbing areas/stairs and notifying staff not to use that area. Additionally, while inspecting the main play yard, the LPA observed an area of lawn immediately next to the concrete play area/tricycle track that is uneven and sunken compared to the surrounding ground. In some spots, the dirt has sunk approximately eight inches, creating a tripping hazard for children and staff. The Director stated that this area has gradually deepened over time and is now considered a safety concern. California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 22, CCR 101238.2(d)(1-2) states “(d) The surface of the outdoor activity space shall be maintained: (1)In a safe condition for the activities planned. (2) Free of hazards including, but not limited to, holes, broken glass and other debris, and dry grasses that pose a fire hazard.” The Director reported that multiple work orders were submitted to the KinderCare facility manager in 2023 and 2025 to address the outdoor play areas, including the removal and replacement of the existing play structure, which staff have considered outdated and unsafe for use. According to the Director, little action has been taken by KinderCare in response to these requests, despite repeated follow-ups from the center. The Director stated that she will be consulting with her District Manager immediately to develop a plan to correct the identified deficiencies. California Code of Regulations, Title 22, is being cited on the attached LIC 809-D. An exit interview was conducted, and this report was read and discussed with the center director, Nicole Del Calvo. A notice of site visit was given and must remain posted for 30 days. Appeal rights provided. Reports citing Type A violations are to be provided to parents/guardians of children currently enrolled by the next business day or the next day the children are in care, and to parents/guardians of children newly enrolled at the facility for the next 12 months from the date of this report. Parents/guardians must sign form LIC 9224 to be kept in each child's file.