| Conclusion Summary |
|
Compliance Inspector (CI) Jessica Ibbotson conducted an investigation regarding the allegation that Child A was being physically restrained by staff in the Copper Room during the summer of 2023. After conducting the investigation, CI Ibbotson 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(1)(C)3. which states: "Only constructive, age-appropriate methods of discipline shall be used to help children develop self-control and assume responsibility for their own actions."
On September 21, 2023, CI Ibbotson interviewed Director Lehman who stated that Child A would be restrained by staff when he was hitting others. She stated that Child A would be physically removed from the area and be placed in the "safe spot" of the classroom while staff would hold his arms down by wrapping themselves around his torso area, limiting his movements until he was calm. She stated that the same incident was already investigated by the Office of Childhood (OOC) in the summer of 2023 and she was instructed that staff could no longer restrain children. She stated that staff were no longer using physical restraints on any of the children.
On September 26, 2023, CI Ibbotson interviewed Caregiver Mattingly, Caregiver Frizzel and Parent A. Parent A stated that Child A reported to her that staff were restraining him at the facility by holding his hands and feet down. She also stated that Child A reported to her that Child B was often times restrained as well. Caregiver Mattingly stated that she had restrained Child A once because he was running around the classroom, attempting to hit other children and staff. She stated that she placed Child A in her lap while sitting on the floor, crossing her legs over his and wrapping her arms around his, limiting his movement. Caregiver Frizzel stated that she observed Caregiver Mattingly restrain Child A and Child B at different times. Caregiver Mattingly and Caregiver Frizzel both stated that physical restraints were no longer allowed.
|