Incident investigation·February 12, 2026

On 02/12/2026, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Shane Loftus conducted an unannounced Case Management inspection of the above-mentioned Child Care Center (CCC) to follow up on an Unusual Incident Report (UIR) received by the Department on 02/06/2026. Specifically, a child in care (C1) sustained a broken tooth. The incident occurred when C1 and C2 ran into each other while in the play yard. LPA met with CCC Director Lisa van der Merwe and explained the nature of the inspection. LPA notes (57) children are on site along with nine (9) staff providing care and supervision. Director, S1, and LPA viewed the area where C1 sustained the injury. LPA notes the area is within the CCC's outdoor playground and the incident occurred on a cushioned level surface. S1 informed LPA that the incident occurred when C1 and C2 were sitting across from each other, got up simultaneously, and ran towards each other. This resulted in C2’s forehead contacting C1’s right front tooth. S1 immediately responded to C1’s injuries and informed the Director of the incident. After basic first aid was provided, C1’s parents were immediately notified. LPA concluded that C1 and C2 were engaging in normal activities and there was no inherent hazard. LPA confirms the Director’s and S1’s account of the incident corroborates the UIR submitted to Community Care Licensing (CCLD). To date, C1 is currently attending the CCC and has no prolonged issues related to the injury. Based on observations and interviews with the Director and S1, it is determined neither the equipment at the CCC nor the actions of the CCC's staff contributed to C1's incident. LPA best categorized the incident as an unfortunate accident. No deficiencies were cited during today’s inspection. Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with the facility representative, Lisa van der Merwe.