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Compliance Inspector (CI) Jessica Glover conducted an investigation regarding the allegation that toddler children were allowed to play with water beads in a sensory table. After conducting the investigation, CI Glover finds this allegation is substantiated. This conclusion is based on the following evidence of licensing rule violations which occurred at the facility:
5 CSR 25-500.182(2)(B) which states: "Daily activities for preschool and school-age children shall include: 1. Developmentally appropriate play experiences and activities planned to meet the interests, needs, and desires of the children;"
AND
5 CSR 25-500.092(2)(C)1. which states: "Infants and toddlers shall have safe toys which shall be washed when soiled. Toys, parts of toys or other materials shall not be small enough to be swallowed. Toys and materials shall include a minimum of one (1) approved item from each of the following categories for each infant and toddler in the licensed capacity of the facility:"
On February 1, 2023, CI Glover interviewed Director Misty Martinez who stated that the water beads were immediately removed from classroom and disposed of after she learned that they were being used in a sensory table for the toddler children. Assistant Director Kristy Ives stated that she approved the weekly lesson plans, but this particular activity was not listed, or else she would have communicated with the caregivers prior to the incident. Caregiver Quinlyn Nelson stated she was unaware of the activity being a choking hazard for the children but understood now and promised not to use them anymore. However, she stated that she was very careful to observe the children while they were playing with the beads at the sensory table, ensuring that none of them swallowed any of the beads. Ms. Martinez stated that she communicated with the staff about age-appropriate lesson plans and made plans to conduct more thorough observations when walking throughout the classrooms, asking teachers particular questions about activities on their lesson plans and ensuring that children's safety is the number one priority.
CI Glover conducted a walkthrough of the facility and observed the toddler classroom. CI Glover observed three sensory water bead bottles that were sealed and contained for the children's use. CI Glover did not observe any toys or items in the classroom that were not age-appropriate for that age group.
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