Complaint·May 27, 2026

Director Del Calvo acknowledged, however, that the caution tape was no longer present on the play structure at the time of the LPA’s visit. She stated that she did not know which staff member or staff members had removed the tape and clarified that the removal was not authorized or directed by her. During the investigation, the LPA conducted unannounced visits to the facility on March 6 and April 14, 2026, to conduct staff interviews and make observations related to the allegation. Interviews with Staff S1 through S5 corroborated the allegation. Several staff members reported observing children in care using the play structure that had been designated as off-limits due to safety concerns. Several staff members also stated that they were unaware the play structure was prohibited for use by children in care and believed the structure had been cleared for use after they observed that the caution tape was removed. During the LPA’s initial complaint investigation visit on March 6, 2026, the LPA observed that the play structure had not been made inaccessible to children. Evidence indicating that the structure had previously been restricted was observed, including remnants of masking tape and caution tape attached to the equipment. Additionally, during a case management visit conducted on February 12, 2026, regarding concerns related to the play structure, the LPA observed that the structure was not taped off or otherwise made inaccessible. At that time, the LPA reminded the Director to ensure that the play structure remained off-limits and inaccessible and to notify all staff regarding the closure and restriction of the equipment. During the LPA’s visits to the facility, no children were observed using the play structure. However, during the February 12, 2026 visit, the LPA observed children playing in close proximity to the restricted play structure. During the follow-up visit conducted on April 14, 2026, the LPA observed that the facility had properly restricted access to the play structure by securing it with yellow caution tape and posting a sign instructing staff not to allow children to use the equipment. Additionally, Director Del Calvo reported that the play yard where the play structure is located is no longer being used by children in care until the issue has been resolved. This facility was cited on November 20, 2025, due to the LPA’s observation that the facility’s Little Tikes plastic play structure was not in safe operating condition. 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. (Continued on LIC9099-C) 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. As part of the plan of correction for the deficiency cited on November 20, 2025, Director Del Calvo stated that, as an interim safety measure, the center would restrict access to the play structure by taping off the climbing areas and stairs and notifying staff that the area was not to be used by children in care. Additionally, Director Del Calvo stated that she would work with the facility’s District Manager to replace the play structure. Director Del Calvo further explained that, due to supply chain delays, the replacement play structure had been ordered, but delivery and installation would be delayed for several months. During that time, the Director provided the LPA with periodic updates regarding the status of the replacement project. On May 12, 2026, Director Del Calvo notified LPA Yang in writing that the new play structure had been assembled and installed in the primary play yard and requested an inspection and approval prior to allowing children to use the equipment. On May 13, 2026, the LPA conducted a site visit to inspect the newly installed play structure. During the inspection, the LPA observed that the play structure was missing the manufacturer’s identification sticker, which typically includes key information such as the manufacturer’s name, model number, and the approved age range for use. Based on current safety standards, playground equipment must be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and specifications. The Director stated that no additional documentation related to the play structure was available on site at the time of the visit and indicated that she would contact the center's facilities department to obtain the missing information. The LPA informed the Director that a follow-up visit would be conducted to verify compliance once the required documentation and manufacturer information are obtained. Based on information obtained from interviews and the LPA’s observations during the investigation, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met; therefore, the above allegation is found to be substantiated. California Code of Regulations, Title 22 is being cited on the attached LIC 9099-D. An exit interview was conducted, and this report was read and discussed with the facility’s director, Nicole Del Calvo. Appeal rights were provided. The Notice of Site Visit shall be posted for 30 days.