Genel James, 57, has been charged with endangering the welfare of children after the incident involving an 11-year-old and a 2-year-old at the Future People Day Care on Sunday.
James lives in the unit block of South 57th Street, not far from the day care.
Police say James slapped the 11-year-old and locked both children inside the center, allegedly saying she was 'no longer responsible for them.'
The 11-year-old called 911 and, while police were on scene, they allegedly smelled the odor of alcohol on James.
It is not clear how long the pair, who are related, had been alone.
The owner of the facility, Tanor Tody, was coming to grips with the news on Monday.
"I didn't know her to have that kind of behavior," Tody said.
Other clients spoke highly of the day care on Monday.
"I am a strong mother and I feel he is getting the best care," said one parent, Marketah.
Even the mother of the 11 year old told Action News she does not blame the center, and hopes James gets the help she needs.
