complaint·January 7, 2025

Parent interviews revealed that most parents are satisfied with the level of care their infants/toddlers receive at the center. One parent stated they observed an incident where a staff member wrapped their hands around child #3 (C#3) in order to separate C#3 from the toys they were using. The parent could not identify the staff member involved in the incident. Through staff interviews, the LPA discovered an alleged incident where staff#4 (S#4) observed another staff (S#1) during an incident when S#1 was sweeping in the play yard. According to S#4, a child kept walking in front of S#1, and S#1 pushed the child out of the way, causing the child to fall forward. LPA interviewed a total of five staff members, but was unable to corroborate whether this incident actually occurred. LPA reviewed the staff handbook, which outlines a respectful workplace policy. It reads as follows: "KCE (Kidercare) does not tolerate disrespectful behavior by, or directed at anyone in any of our locations, including employees, families, and anyone we do business with"(see LIC812). During LPA's file review of unusual incident reports, only two unusual incidents were self-reported to our department in the last twelve months(see LIC812). Neither of the aforementioned tow incidents pertained to violations of the personal rights of infants/toddlers. LPA also requested and reviewed HR documents and write-ups pertaining to staff misconduct. The review of these documents and write-ups did not reveal any recent incidents where staff members pushed children in a rough manner. Additionally, three unannounced visits and LPA’s observations during those visits were included in the investigation. During those visits, LPA did not observe any staff members violating the personal rights of infants/toddlers. Although the above allegation may have occurred or may be valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove that the alleged violations did or did not occur. Therefore, the allegation is Unsubstantiated . Exit Interview conducted and report was reviewed with Director. .Notice of Site Visit was provided. Parent interviews revealed that most parents are satisfied with the level of care their infants/toddlers receive at the center. One parent stated they observed an incident where a staff member wrapped their hands around child #3 (C#3) in order to separate C#3 from the toys they were using. The parent could not identify the staff member involved in the incident. No other incident was discovered by LPA during parent interviews. Through staff interviews, the LPA discovered an alleged incident where staff member #4 (S#4) observed another staff member (S#1) during an incident when S#1 was sweeping in the play yard. According to S#4, a child kept walking in front of S#1, and S#1 pushed the child out of the way, causing the child to fall forward. LPA interviewed a total of five staff members, but was unable to corroborate whether this incident actually occurred. LPA reviewed the staff handbook, which outlines a respectful workplace policy. It reads as follows: "KCE (Kidercare) does not tolerate disrespectful behavior by, or directed at anyone in any of our locations, including employees, families, and anyone we do business with"(see LIC812). During LPA's file review of unusual incident reports, only two unusual incidents were self reported to our department in the last twelve months(see LIC812). Neither of these incidents pertained to violations of the personal rights of infants/toddlers. LPA also requested and reviewed HR documents and write-ups pertaining to staff misconduct. The review of these documents and write-ups did not reveal any recent incidents where staff members pushed children in a rough manner. However LPA discovered a incident on 10/09/2024, Where four staff were written up due to staff arguing and yelling at one another in the centers play yard, while infant/toddlers were present. Director stated to LPA all four staff have been giving "coaching"(write ups) and if any other write up occurs with the four staff , the centers management will terminate employment. Additionally, three unannounced visits and the LPA’s observations during those visits were included in the investigation. During those visits, LPA did not observe any staff members violating the personal rights of infants/toddlers. Based on LPA interviews, documents collected during investigation, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegation is found to be SUBSTANTIATED. California Code of Regulations, (Title 22, Division 12 & Chapter 1), are being cited on the attached LIC 9099D.” Exit Interview conducted and report was reviewed with Director. Appeal rights were given to director . Notice of Site Visit was issued.