591-1-1-.32(7) · Rule 591-1-1-.32(7) requires that children shall be supervised at all times appropriate to the individual age, needs and capabilities of each child. Such supervision must include, but not be limited to, indoor and outdoor activities, mealtimes, naptime, transportation, field trips, and transitions between activities. “Supervision” means that the appropriate number of Staff members are physically present in the area where children are being cared for and are providing watchful oversight to the children, volunteers and Students-in-Training. The persons supervising in the child care area must be alert, positioned to maximize their ability to hear and see the children at all times, and able to respond promptly to the needs and actions of the children being supervised, as well as the actions of the volunteers and Students-in-Training, and provide timely attention to the children’s actions and needs. Staff shall be attentive and participating with all children during mealtimes and shall be seated within an arm’s length away from children thirty-six (36) months of age and younger.

During an investigation, it was determined that on August 25, 2025, a 1-year-old child's left thumb was closed in a door by center staff. There was one staff member present in the classroom with one 1-year-old child and seven 2-year-old children. The class was in the process of transitioning for outdoor play and the staff member pushed an exterior door open that led to the playground to check the weather conditions. Children were positioned behind the staff member when the exterior door opened, and it was reported that the staff member used their body to block the door, preventing the children from walking out the door. However, information obtained during the investigation revealed that as the staff member pulled the door closed, unknowingly the 1-year-old child’s thumb was caught in the door frame and the 1-year-old child began to cry. The child walked behind the staff member when the staff member went to the exterior door to check the weather. The 1-year-old child's left thumb was injured due to the incident. The staff member then notified administrative staff, and the child was examined, and given an ice pack and anti-bacterial ointment was applied to the child's injury. Center staff contacted the child’s parent at approximately 10:00 a.m. Staff did not ensure the doorway was clear prior to closing the door. Professional medical attention was obtained.