Daycare Lawsuit: Toddler Injuries Spark Safety Concerns

Video Evidence Shows Worker Throwing Toddler Over Head at Bay Club Daycare

On March 17, 2025, surveillance video at the Bay Club El Segundo captured a daycare worker swinging 23-month-old C.K. between her legs before hoisting him over her head and releasing him, causing him to fall approximately six feet onto a hardwood floor. The toddler suffered a traumatic brain injury, according to the lawsuit filed by his parents.

The complaint alleges the employee “released C.K.’s hands while he was above the employee’s head,” leaving him “approximately 6 feet above the ground” before he fell.

The video contradicts the club’s initial explanation that the child fell from only 1.5 feet while the worker was squatting. The family is now suing the Bay Club for negligence, battery, fraud, and emotional distress.

• The incident occurred at around 9:20 a.m. after C.K. was dropped off by his father.
• The father then left for another Bay Club location, the Manhattan Country Club.
• Attorneys for the family said the club downplayed the severity, initially claiming the child had calmed down.

Traumatic Brain Injury Lawsuit Highlights Gaps in Childcare Safety Standards

The lawsuit alleges the worker’s actions were reckless and violated basic safety protocols, resulting in a traumatic brain injury and hearing loss for the toddler. This case underscores gaps in safety standards, especially in fitness club daycares that may not face the same regulations as licensed childcare centers.

“The staff member stated that she did not think they needed to pick up C.K., but wanted to let them know that an incident took place,” the lawsuit said, highlighting the downplaying of the injury.

• The Bay Club allegedly falsely told parents the fall was from 1.5 feet, calling the surveillance video evidence a “complete lie.”
• Child safety advocates are calling for mandatory video monitoring and stricter oversight of all daycare providers.
• The toddler’s injuries may have long-term consequences, raising questions about liability and compensation.

Legal Implications: What Parents Can Do After a Daycare Injury

Families whose children are injured in daycare should act quickly to preserve evidence. The surveillance footage in this case was critical to proving the discrepancy between the club’s account and what actually occurred.

• Document the incident: Obtain all surveillance video, medical records, and any communication from the facility.
• Consult an attorney: Personal injury lawyers experienced in childcare negligence can help navigate claims for compensation.
• Report the incident: File a complaint with state licensing agencies and local child protective services.

This lawsuit may set a precedent for holding daycare centers accountable for employee actions, even in private clubs. The family is seeking damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

Key Takeaways

• The Bay Club incident is a stark reminder that daycare safety must be a priority, regardless of setting.
• Surveillance video can be critical evidence in proving negligence and securing justice for injured children.
• Parents should thoroughly vet daycare facilities, including background checks and staff training policies.
• Legal recourse is available for families, but acting quickly to preserve evidence is essential.
• This case may lead to increased scrutiny of fitness club daycares and similar unregulated childcare environments.
• Child safety advocates are calling for mandatory video monitoring and stricter oversight of all daycare providers.