complaint·March 3, 2026

Nelmes stated that she has never observed any staff member handle a child in a rough manner or lift a child by the back of their shirt. She reported that staff are trained to use appropriate redirection techniques when interacting with children and to maintain a respectful and supportive approach at all times. According to Nelmes, teachers may place a hand on a child\342\200\231s shoulder, back, or hand to guide them; however, staff are instructed not to lift children to move them unless necessary for safety reasons. Nelmes further stated that the facility emphasizes positive guidance strategies and appropriate classroom management techniques. She indicated that she routinely monitors classrooms and has not observed any conduct that would be considered inappropriate handling or a violation of children\342\200\231s personal rights. Nelmes stated that several staff members naturally have loud, enthusiastic speaking voices. She explained that this is part of their teaching style and engagement with children, particularly during group activities and play. Nelmes reported that she has never observed any staff member yelling at children, speaking in a threatening manner, or using inappropriate language. Nelmes further clarified that while staff do not yell at children, they may occasionally raise their voices to gain a child\342\200\231s attention or to address the group, especially during active play or transitional periods. She explained that the noise level inside the facility can increase significantly when children are engaged in indoor play, making it difficult for teachers to be heard when using their regular tone or volume. According to Nelmes, any increase in volume is intended solely to maintain supervision, ensure safety, and effectively communicate with the children, not to intimidate or discipline them. During the investigation, the LPA conducted unannounced site visits on 12/11/25 and 12/18/25 to observe classroom activities and interview staff members S1 through S8. The staff interviewed did not provide information that corroborated the allegations. Additionally, S2 and S3 both denied the allegations in its entirety and provided additional information consistent with the director's statements. However, one staff member interviewed reported observing staff member S3 grab a child (identity not provided) by the shirt but did not observe the child being lifted by the shirt. Additionally, childcare clients and children were interviewed as part of the investigation and did not provide any information supporting the allegations. During the site visits, the LPA did not observe any personal rights violations or any instances of staff yelling at children. Based on available information and interviews conducted, although the allegations may have happened or are valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violations did or did not occur. Therefore, the allegations are determined to be unsubstantiated at this time. There were no Title 22 deficiencies cited. This report was reviewed and discussed with the licensee, Leanne Nelmes. Appeal rights were provided. Notice of Site Visit shall be posted for 30 days from today's visit.