Inglewood Daycare Aide Fired for Hitting Autistic Child with Shoe

Video footage shows aide throwing shoe at 5-year-old girl during naptime at Destiny Development Center

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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A teacher's aide at an Inglewood daycare was fired after a video surfaced showing her hitting a 5-year-old girl with autism named Beautiful by throwing a shoe at her during naptime. The incident occurred on January 9 at the Destiny Development Center, and the director said all three staff members involved were terminated after reviewing footage from the school's 26 cameras.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the importance of proper training, supervision, and accountability in childcare facilities, especially when caring for vulnerable children with special needs. It raises concerns about potential abuse and the need for strict policies and oversight to protect young students.

The details

The video footage shows the aide removing her shoe and hurling it across the room at Beautiful, who was crawling off her mat during naptime. The aide claimed she only intended to scare the child, not hit her. After initially not recalling the incident, the other two staff members in the room provided written statements changing their stories. The director said shoes should never have been thrown at a student, and she reported the incident to the relevant licensing agency.

  • The incident occurred on January 9, 2026 at the Destiny Development Center in Inglewood, California.
  • The director began investigating after Beautiful's mother requested a review of the incident.

The players

Beautiful

A 5-year-old girl with autism who was hit by a shoe thrown by a daycare aide.

Danielle Williams

The director of the Destiny Development Center who terminated the three staff members involved after reviewing footage from the school's 26 cameras.

Destiny Development Center

An Inglewood daycare where the incident occurred.

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What they’re saying

“I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to do it,”

— The aide (nbclosangeles.com)

“It's not a representation of what my school is. It's not a representation of what we stand for,”

— Danielle Williams, Director, Destiny Development Center (nbclosangeles.com)

“I'm shocked and horrified that my innocent baby was harmed and humiliated in front of everyone. This teacher should not only be fired immediately but criminally prosecuted for child abuse.”

— Beautiful's mother (nbclosangeles.com)

What’s next

The director reported the incident to the relevant licensing agency, as required, citing potential violations of childcare regulations. Beautiful's mother is seeking justice for her daughter.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the critical need for rigorous training, supervision, and accountability measures in childcare facilities to protect vulnerable children from potential abuse. It highlights the importance of swift action and transparency when such incidents occur to maintain public trust and ensure the safety of all students.