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Department of
SOCIAL SERVICES

Community Care Licensing


COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT

Facility Number: 304371515
Report Date: 10/13/2023
Date Signed: 10/13/2023 03:01:34 PM

Substantiated


STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
ORANGE CO CHILD CARE, 750 THE CITY DRIVE, SUITE 250
ORANGE, CA 92868
This is an official report of an unannounced visit/investigation of a complaint received in our office on
08/29/2023 and conducted by Evaluator Giselle Lucero
PUBLIC
COMPLAINT CONTROL NUMBER: 06-CC-20230829164148
FACILITY NAME:LITTLE SUNSHINE HOUSEFACILITY NUMBER:
304371515
ADMINISTRATOR:BETONTE, NINAFACILITY TYPE:
830
ADDRESS:4111 KATELLA AVENUETELEPHONE:
(562) 513-3313
CITY:LOS ALAMITOSSTATE: CAZIP CODE:
90720
CAPACITY:31CENSUS: 7DATE:
10/13/2023
UNANNOUNCEDTIME BEGAN:
01:50 PM
MET WITH:Director Nina BetonteTIME COMPLETED:
03:15 PM
ALLEGATION(S):
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Staff did not keep facility free of mice.
Facility window is in disrepair.
INVESTIGATION FINDINGS:
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Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Giselle Lucero conducted an unannounced complaint inspection to deliver the findings for the above allegations. This is a continuation of the investigation initiated on 09/05/2023. Upon arrival LPA met with Director, Nina Betonte. Director guided LPA on a tour of the facility. At 1:50 PM LPA observed a total of 7 infants with 4 staff.

A review of staff records on this date indicated that all facility staff or other individuals who required caregiver background checks have received criminal record and child abuse index clearances or exemptions.

The department received a complaint on 08/29/23 alleging (1) staff did not keep facility free of mice and (2) Facility window is in disrepair. Reporting Party (RP) stated for about a week the RP has been hearing staff saying that the facility has mice.

(continue to page 2)
Substantiated
Estimated Days of Completion:
SUPERVISORS NAME: Judy Hanson
LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Giselle Lucero
LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE:

DATE: 10/13/2023
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 10/13/2023
This report must be available at Child Care and Group Home facilities for public review for 3 years.
LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 1 of 6
Control Number 06-CC-20230829164148
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
ORANGE CO CHILD CARE, 750 THE CITY DRIVE, SUITE 250
ORANGE, CA 92868
FACILITY NAME: LITTLE SUNSHINE HOUSE
FACILITY NUMBER: 304371515
VISIT DATE: 10/13/2023
NARRATIVE
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(page 2)
RP also reported the screen inside of the infant classroom is ripped and that there is an infant climbing structure near the window, and that day-care children can put their arms through the screen, and that it's possible that mice can enter through the screen as well.

During the investigation LPA Lucero interviewed 6 staff members, 5 parents, conducted a facility inspection, took pictures, and reviewed the children’s roster.

During the investigation, Staff #1 (S1) was interviewed on 09/05/23. S1 stated Staff #2 (S2) informed S1 of mouse sighting on 08/29/2023. S2 informed S1 seeing a mouse in a hole in the wall located at the top corner of the infant classroom. S1 stated she went into the classroom to inspect hole and called a pest control specialist to do a rodent inspection. S1 provided LPA Lucero with rodent inspection invoice. Rodent inspection occurred on 08/29/2023 at 7:34 PM. S1 stated during rodent inspection, S1 and pest control specialist did not observe any mice or animal droppings inside the classroom. S1 stated after the inspection, S1 patched up the hole in the corner of the room and the pest control specialist placed child safety mouse traps on the outside by the facility entrance gates. S1 stated this is the first time the facility has ever observed any mice. S1 informed all parents via app about mouse found in the facility and has asked for parents to look through the lost and found clothing pile and take clothing that may belong to their children home before clothing is donated to eliminate any attractions or possible hiding places for mice. S1 provided LPA with message sent to parents.

On 09/05/2023, LPA Lucero interviewed 6 staff. 3 out of 6 staff stated they observed a mouse at the facility on 08/29/2023. 6 out of 6 staff stated this is the first time they have ever observed or heard from another staff about a mouse in the facility. S1 stated it is possible the mouse came from the park that is located next to the facility due to the heavy rains.

On 09/05/2023, LPA inspected infant classroom and the outdoor infant play yard. LPA did not observe any mice or animal droppings at the facility. LPA observed child proof mouse traps located outside the facility entrance gate. During the room inspection, LPA observed a window screen that was partially torn open at the right bottom corner. Window is located above foam climbing block equipment that is used by infants. LPA also observed patched hole at the top corner of the infant room.
(continue to page 3)
SUPERVISORS NAME: Judy Hanson
LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Giselle Lucero
LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE:

DATE: 10/13/2023
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 10/13/2023
LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 2 of 6
Control Number 06-CC-20230829164148
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
ORANGE CO CHILD CARE, 750 THE CITY DRIVE, SUITE 250
ORANGE, CA 92868
FACILITY NAME: LITTLE SUNSHINE HOUSE
FACILITY NUMBER: 304371515
VISIT DATE: 10/13/2023
NARRATIVE
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(page 3)
On 09/20/2023 LPA attempted to interview 6 parents, however only 5 parents were available for interview. Parents interviewed made no disclosures.

LPA did not interview children due to infants being nonverbal.

Based on LPA’s facility inspection, observations, interviews conducted with 6 staff members, 5 parents, and records reviewed, it has been determined (1) staff did not keep facility free of mice and (2) Facility window is in disrepair. Therefore, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegation is found to be Substantiated. California Code of Regulations, Title 22, 101238(a)(1) Buildings and Grounds and 101239(b) Fixtures, Furniture, Equipment and Supplies is being cited on the attached LIC 9099D.

Exit interview was conducted. Notice of Site Visit was posted during the visit. Director Nina Betonte was informed that the notice of site visit must be posted for 30 consecutive days. Failure to post will result in civil penalties of $100. Director was provided a copy of their appeal rights (LIC 9058 01/16) and their signature on this form acknowledges receipt of these rights. First level appeals should be sent to the regional manager to the address listed above.

End of Report.
SUPERVISORS NAME: Judy Hanson
LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Giselle Lucero
LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE:

DATE: 10/13/2023
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 10/13/2023
LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 3 of 6
Control Number 06-CC-20230829164148
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
ORANGE CO CHILD CARE, 750 THE CITY DRIVE, SUITE 250
ORANGE, CA 92868

FACILITY NAME: LITTLE SUNSHINE HOUSE
FACILITY NUMBER: 304371515
DEFICIENCY INFORMATION FOR THIS PAGE:
VISIT DATE: 10/13/2023
Deficiency Type
POC Due Date /
Section Number
DEFICIENCIES
PLAN OF CORRECTIONS(POCs)
Type B
10/13/2023
Section Cited
CCR
101238(a)(1)
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101238 Buildings and Grounds (a)The child care center shall be clean, safe, sanitary and in good repair at all times...(1) The licensee shall take measures to keep the center free of flies, other insects, and rodents.
This requirement is not met as evidenced by:
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Director called a pest control specialist on 08/29/2023 to conduct a rodent inspection. Director provided rodent inspection invoice to LPA Lucero. Director placed child proof mouse traps outside facility entrance gate. LPA observed mouse traps.
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Based on interviews with 5 staff members, it has been determined there was a mouse at the facility. This poses a potential health and safety risk to children in care.
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Type B
10/13/2023
Section Cited
CCR
101239(b)
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101239 Fixtures, Furniture, Equipment and Supplies (b) All window screens shall be in good repair...
This requirement is not met as evidenced by:
Baesed on observation on 09/05/2023, a window screen was partially torn open from..
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During visit on 10/13/2023, LPA observed window screen in good repair.
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the bottom right corner. Window is located above foam climbing block equipment that is used by infants. This poses a potential health and safety risk to children in care.
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Failure to correct the cited deficiency(ies), on or before the Plan of Correction (POC) due date, may result in a civil penalty assessment.
SUPERVISORS NAME: Judy Hanson
LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Giselle Lucero
LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE:

DATE: 10/13/2023
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 10/13/2023
LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 4 of 6
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
ORANGE CO CHILD CARE, 750 THE CITY DRIVE, SUITE 250
ORANGE, CA 92868
This is an official report of an unannounced visit/investigation of a complaint received in our office on
08/29/2023 and conducted by Evaluator Giselle Lucero
PUBLIC
COMPLAINT CONTROL NUMBER: 06-CC-20230829164148

FACILITY NAME:LITTLE SUNSHINE HOUSEFACILITY NUMBER:
304371515
ADMINISTRATOR:BETONTE, NINAFACILITY TYPE:
830
ADDRESS:4111 KATELLA AVENUETELEPHONE:
(562) 513-3313
CITY:LOS ALAMITOSSTATE: CAZIP CODE:
90720
CAPACITY:31CENSUS: 7DATE:
10/13/2023
UNANNOUNCEDTIME BEGAN:
01:50 PM
MET WITH:Director Nina BetonteTIME COMPLETED:
03:15 PM
ALLEGATION(S):
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Staff did not remove mice droppings.
INVESTIGATION FINDINGS:
1
2
3
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5
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7
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Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Giselle Lucero conducted an unannounced complaint inspection to deliver the findings for the above allegation. This is a continuation of the investigation initiated on 09/05/2023. Upon arrival LPA met with Director, Nina Betonte. Director guided LPA on a tour of the facility. At 1:50 PM, LPA observed a total of 7 infants with 4 staff.

A review of staff records on this date indicated that all facility staff or other individuals who required caregiver background checks have received criminal record and child abuse index clearances or exemptions.

The department received a complaint on 08/29/23 alleging staff do not remove mice droppings from facility play area. Reporting Party (RP) stated mouse droppings were observed on the outdoor play area for infants.

(continue to page 2)
Unsubstantiated
Estimated Days of Completion:
SUPERVISORS NAME: Judy Hanson
LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Giselle Lucero
LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE:

DATE: 10/13/2023
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 10/13/2023
This report must be available at Child Care and Group Home facilities for public review for 3 years.
LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 5 of 6
Control Number 06-CC-20230829164148
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
ORANGE CO CHILD CARE, 750 THE CITY DRIVE, SUITE 250
ORANGE, CA 92868
FACILITY NAME: LITTLE SUNSHINE HOUSE
FACILITY NUMBER: 304371515
VISIT DATE: 10/13/2023
NARRATIVE
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(page 2)
During the investigation LPA Lucero interviewed 6 staff members, 5 parents, conducted a facility inspection, and reviewed the children’s roster.

During the investigation on 09/05/2023, LPA Lucero interviewed 6 staff. Only 2 out of 6 staff interviewed stated mice droppings were observed outside in the infant play area and in the breeze way but were cleaned and removed immediately and area was disinfected by staff before the infants were in the area.

On 09/05/2023, LPA inspected the infant classroom, floor corners of the classrooms, inside the cabinets, and the infant play yard. LPA did not observe any mice droppings at the facility.

On 09/19/2023 LPA attempted to interview 6 parents, however only 5 parents were available for interview. 5 parents interviewed stated they are satisfied with the childcare facility, and do not have any concerns.

LPA did not conduct children interviews due to infants’ age and infants being nonverbal.

Based on LPAs facility inspection, interviews conducted with 6 staff and 5 parents, it has been determined there was insufficient evidence that staff do not remove mice droppings. Although the allegations may have happened or are valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation did or did not occur, therefore the allegation is Unsubstantiated.

Exit interview conducted and report was reviewed with the Director Nina Betonte. A notice of site visit was given and must remain posted for 30 days.

Appeal Rights were explained. The Licensee was provided a copy of appeal rights (LIC 9058 01/16) and their signature on this form acknowledges receipt of these rights. All appeals must be in writing and received by the Regional Office within 15 business days. First level appeals should be sent to the regional manager to the address listed above.

End of Report.
SUPERVISORS NAME: Judy Hanson
LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Giselle Lucero
LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE:

DATE: 10/13/2023
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 10/13/2023
LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 6 of 6