During the inspection, several key facility items were observed and updated where necessary. These included the facility's license, the Emergency Disaster Plan (LIC610) and Earthquake Preparedness Checklist (LIC9148), the Parent’s Rights Poster (PUB393), Personal Rights (LIC613A), the Child Car Seat Law notice, and the menu. The facility was found to be operating within the limits stated on its license, and staff-to-child ratios were observed to be maintained at less than 1:12. Classrooms were adequately equipped with age- and size-appropriate furniture and materials, ensuring a safe and hazard-free environment. The facility representative confirmed that no weapons were present on the premises.

There were no accessible bodies of water on-site. The director is aware that any wading pools or similar products must be emptied immediately after use and stored in an upright position. Drinking water was available both indoors and outdoors. Children were observed to utilize individual refillable water bottles or disposable cups. LPA verified that lead testing was completed on 2/25/23, and the next testing is due within five years from the initial test date.

Medications, disinfectants, cleaning solutions, and other hazardous materials were stored in locations inaccessible to children, while poisons and toxins were securely locked away. The facility’s floors were observed to be safe and clean, and bathroom facilities were sanitary and in proper working condition. The playgrounds were enclosed by a secure, six-foot wrought iron fence surrounding the perimeter of the center. Outdoor activity areas contained age- and size-appropriate equipment in good condition.

• Type A deficiencies are violations of licensing requirements that, if not corrected, have a direct and immediate risk to the health, safety, or personal rights of persons in care.

• Type B deficiencies are violations of licensing requirements that, without correction, could become a risk to the health, safety, or personal rights of persons in care, a recordkeeping violation that could impact the care of said persons and/or protection of their resources, or a violation that could impact those services required to meet the needs of persons in care.

A review of staff and children’s records was conducted as part of this evaluation. Children's records were complete, and staff records confirmed that all present staff met the minimum qualifications for their respective positions. Two of five staff files audited on-site held current Pediatric CPR/First Aid certifications, with expiration dates recorded. Both the opening and closing staff members also had valid CPR/First Aid certifications. The Director had completed Health and Safety Training. Additionally, a review of staff records confirmed that all facility staff and other individuals requiring caregiver background checks had received criminal record and child abuse index clearances or exemptions.

The Director was reminded that all adults over the age of 18, including employees and volunteers (except as specified in Health and Safety Code section 1596.871), must obtain a criminal record clearance or exemption before their initial presence in the Child Care Center. A civil penalty of $100 per day for up to five days, or up to 30 days for repeat violations, may be assessed for noncompliance.

This facility provides IMS. LPA reviewed the storage of medications and equipment/supplies, as well as children's, personnel, and administrative records. Additional IMS information is available in PIN 22-02-CCP. The Director was also provided with information regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), including the U.S. Department of Justice (USDOJ) toll-free ADA Information Line at (800) 514-0301 (voice) or (800) 514-0383 (TTY). Additional information is available at Commonly Asked Questions about Child Care Centers and the ADA.

The Director was informed about MyChildCarePlan.org, a consumer education website that connects families with child care providers and Resource & Referral Agencies (R&Rs) throughout California. Licensing forms and regulations for Child Care Centers are available on the Department’s website at www.ccld.ca.gov. Providers can also subscribe to receive updates by entering their email under "Receive Important Updates" on the website.

To improve the quality and value of the inspection process, a survey may be sent to the provided email. The Director is encouraged to complete the survey and provide feedback on the inspection experience. Any questions regarding the inspection process or CARE tools may be directed to inspectionprocess@dss.ca.gov. Additional details about the inspection process can be found at www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/community-care-licensing/inspection-process.

The Director was asked to update and submit the following documents to licensing within 30 days, if applicable:

· LIC 500 Personnel Report

· LIC 610 Emergency & Disaster Plan

· Parent Handbook, Program Curriculum, Admission Policies & Procedures, and Fee Schedule (if changed or more than two years old)

· LIC 309 Administrative Organization (if changed or more than two years old)

· LIC 308 Designation of Administrative Responsibility (if changed or outdated)

At this time, no deficiencies were cited. A Notice of Site Visit was provided and must remain posted for 30 days.

An exit interview was conducted, and this report was reviewed with Candice Lawrence. Appeal rights were discussed and provided during the exit interview.