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Daycare Worker Throw Toddler Into The Air and Failed To Catch Him

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Daycare Worker Throw Toddler Into The Air and Failed To Catch Him

A shocking incident at The Bay Club daycare in El Segundo, California, has sparked outrage and debate after CCTV footage revealed a worker throwing a toddler into the air, failing to catch him, and then falling on top of him. The 23‑month‑old boy sustained a traumatic brain injury, and his parents have filed a lawsuit alleging negligence, concealment, and reckless conduct.

 What Happened

  • Date: March 17, 2025

  • Child: 23‑month‑old boy (identified as C.K.)

  • Event: The worker swung the child by his arms, tossed him overhead, missed the catch, and fell backward onto him.

  • Injuries: Severe facial bruising, concussion, and ongoing symptoms of traumatic brain injury.

Legal Action

The child’s parents, Matthew and Elena Kittle, are suing The Bay Club for:

  • Negligence and negligent supervision

  • Fraud and concealment after staff allegedly downplayed the incident

  • Emotional distress for both the child and family

Community Reactions

Public comments show a divided response — some see the incident as reckless negligence, while others believe it was an unfortunate accident:

  • “Very sad although I don’t think the person meant the child any harm… It could’ve happened to a parent or family member.” — Sina Gigliotti DiMauro

  • “She didn’t mean to harm the toddler. It looks more like playing and it was an accident. However, that kind of swing is too much.” — Maggie Lim

  • “It’s an unfortunate situation. I don’t think she did it on purpose. Some children love rough play. She just took it a little too far.” — Veran Phillip

  • “Looking at footage she is cradling the baby straight after. I feel sorry for both the parents and that now traumatised worker.” — Serena Lister

  • “Looking at the video this was an accident… SAD but true.” — Joyce Shedden

Others, however, condemned the act as reckless and unacceptable:

  • “This person cannot be qualified to care for children… swinging the toddler by the arms could cause dislocation.” — Marika Altenbacher

  • “Any experienced childcare worker would never engage in play like that. So dangerous.” — Shell Edwards

  • “Throwing kids up in the air regardless of them falling or not can cause brain damage period.” — Cindy Gerhardt Marshall

As educators, we naturally want to play with children, share joy, and build bonds through fun activities. Play is at the heart of early childhood learning. Yet, we must also remain cautious and mindful of the risks involved. Every playful interaction carries responsibility — from lifting, swinging, or chasing games to rough‑and‑tumble play. By balancing fun with safety, educators can ensure that children experience the joy of play while being protected from preventable harm.

Reference:
Shocking Moment California Daycare Worker Throws Toddler Into Air Leaving Him With Horrific Injuries 

Video

https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/parenting/kids/shocking-moment-daycare-worker-throws-toddler-into-air-leaving-him-with-horrific-injuries/news-story/522bca36ce2b79758b2ebd4f447ef99b?utm_source=News.com.au&utm_medium=Facebook&utm_campaign=EditorialSB&utm_content=SocialBakers&fbclid=IwY2xjawTAoLlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFGV1d6bEpvSkVuaG03anV6c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHr46WwV1Odo9vv0rhK-4Q1gw9EuuviuYRRGpS6mrukaG7BugxvhA4stwdYdg_aem_HtfL-hL09ZvufQY28KLdrA
Last modified on Monday, July 13, 2026
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