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.
On September 11, 2025, a 2-year-old child wandered from the playground, exited the building, and was found near the main road by passersby. There were two staff members supervising 11 children between the ages of 1-year-old and 6-years-old on the playground. one staff member took three children inside for the restroom. Video footage shows the playground gate and center door were left open. At 4:03 p.m., the child walked through the open gate, down the passageway, and exited the front door at 4:05 p.m. The child then walked toward the main road. Two passersby intervened and returned the child to the center at 4:07 p.m. Staff were unaware the child had left until then. The child was unsupervised for approximately 4 minutes, unharmed, and required no medical attention. The parent was informed upon arrival at 4:15 p.m. The staff failed to provide adequate supervision and watchful oversight of the children while on the playground.