Discussed with the provider: Cutting foods that can be considered potential choking hazards into small pieces for children under the age of 3 years old.
Comments:
A complaint was received in the licensing office regarding potential choking hazards served at the center. An investigation was initiated on June 9, 2023. An on-site investigation was conducted on June 14, 2023. Observations were made, interviews conducted and center menu was reviewed. Based on the preponderance of evidence, the complaint is deemed valid. Violations cited can be found on the violation notice. Please email me at Tameika.king@doe.virginia.gov with any questions.
Based on observation and staff interview, children three years of age or younger were offered foods that are considered to be potential choking hazards.
Evidence: 1. On June 14, 2023, 4 out of 5 classrooms with children three years of age or younger were observed eating hotdogs for lunch. The hot dogs were torn into chunks large enough to pose a choking hazard in 3 of the classrooms. The hot dogs were served cut in half, posing a choking hazard, in the fourth classroom. 2. The center menu stated that Cheese Sticks would be served for PM snack on June 14, 2023. 3. Staff #1 stated that the children in the Toddlers classroom typically eat the cheese stick whole, but sometimes the staff will cut the cheese stick in half. 4. Staff #2 stated that the children in the two year old classroom eat the cheese stick whole.
Plan of Correction:
We made changes to our menu and switched the cheese sticks with cheese slices for all ages. Hotdogs are removed from our menu. We no longer serve hotdogs to any age.
Disclaimer:
This information is provided by the Virginia Department of Social Services, which neither endorses any facility nor guarantees that the information is complete. It should not be used as the sole source in evaluating and/or selecting a facility.
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