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 that on August 12, 2025, at approximately 1:30 p.m., center staff failed to provide watchful oversight when a 3-year-old child was unaccounted for at the center, two staff members were supervising 14 three-year-old children in a classroom. A transporter entered the classroom and picked up their regularly assigned child. Staff member A asked if the transporter was also picking up the second child; the transporter confirmed after being told the parent had verbally authorized it. The transporter then left with both children. At approximately 2:45 p.m., the child’s relative arrived to pick up the child and learned the child had already left with the transporter. The parent called and was informed the child had been released to the transportation provider. Around 3 p.m., another relative contacted the transporter, who confirmed they had the child and requested a drop- off address. The relative instructed the transporter to return the child to the center, which occurred between 3:20 and 3:30 p.m. The parents stated they had previously inquired about transportation services but had not completed paperwork or authorized pickup. Management verified no changes were communicated by the parents.