Incident investigation·May 18, 2026

On 05/18/2026, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Shane Loftus conducted an unannounced Case Management inspection at the above-mentioned Child Care Center (CCC) to address an Unusual Incident Report (UIR) received by the Department on 04/20/2026. The incident involved a child in care (C1) sustaining an injury to their upper, front right tooth. LPA met with Lisa Van Der Merwe, the Director of the CCC, and explained the purpose of the inspection. LPA, in the company of Director, toured the interior and exterior of the CCC. LPA observed forty (40) children in care along with five (5) staff members at the time of the inspection. Director showed LPA the location where the incident occurred. Director told LPA the incident took place in the outdoor play area where C1 was riding a tricycle. The tricycle’s back left wheel hit a cleat of a play stop sign, causing C1 to fall on to the concrete bike path, resulting in C1’s upper front tooth to be pushed up into the gums. Director explained that the play stop sign was not on the bike path. S1 and S2 were present on the play yard with nine students (including C1). S1 immediately applied basic first aid to C1’s injury while S2 supervised the remaining eight children. C1 was then taken to the CCC’s office where the Director provided additional first aid. The Director then called A1, who arrived at the CCC within approximately twenty minutes. C1 was then taken to their dentist. Director informed LPA that C1 returned to the CCC after five days per dentist’s recommendation. LPA was informed that C1 is still attending the CCC and has shown no ill effects from the incident. Continued on 809-C Based on LPA's observations, interviews, and record reviews, it is determined that the actions of CCC staff did not contribute to the incident or C1's injury. Further, CCC staff acted in accordance with Title 22 regulations. LPA can best describe the incident as an unfortunate accident. No deficiencies were cited during today’s inspection. A notice of site visit was given and must remain posted for 30 days.