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Home › NC › Ayden › Tiny Hearts Child Care Center
4273 Juanita Avenue, Ayden NC 28513 · License #74000944 · Center · Child Care Center
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10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/7/2026 Number Present: 21 Completed Date: 5/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 369 Time In: 08:26 AM Time Out: 02:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued January 7, 2024, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for using a developmentally appropriate curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The sanitation inspection was completed February 25, 2026 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted October 13, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty two percent as of May 5, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 5, 2026, and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center, LLC was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor space were monitored. Five of children were observed engaging in indoor free play, transitions, and meals. Teachers were engaging with children through conversation, singing, and reading. Learning posters and children’s artwork hang on the classroom walls. Room arrangements have been changed since the last visit. Learning materials were stored on low lying shelves for easy access. Breakfast was observed and consisted of beagles with jelly, oatmeal, yogurt, mixed fruit, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 526 Menus for all meals and snacks were not current or posted where easily seen by parents and cook. The menu posted in the lobby and in the kitchen were dated 4/27/26-5/1/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The thermometer in the refrigerator in space #5 read 50 degrees F. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 618 Diaper changing surfaces were not kept free of storage. There were two meal plates located on the changing table in space #3. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One bottle of 50% Isopropyl Alcohol was stored on a shelf, above five feet in space #4. .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Written authorization was not on file for two Ventolin HFA inhalers located in space #2. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. One Ventolin HFA inhaler, located in space #2, expired January 2026. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Seven staff files reviewed had health questionnaires that expired in April 2026. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Seven staff files reviewed contained emergency information that expired in April 2026. .0701(a) 1233 Each employee's personnel file did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. Signed acknowledgment of personnel and operational policies was not on file for three staff. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(g) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. A child enrolled on 8/27/24 did not have a medical report on file. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had a medical report on file dated 4/9/26. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had an immunization report on file dated 4/9/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR Plan on file was last reviewed/revised on February 13, 2025. .0607(e) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. An asthma action plan was not on file for two Ventolin HFA inhalers located in space #2. .0801(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Three of ten staff files reviewed did not contain signed acknowledgement of review of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. .0608(d)(1-4) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 21, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P. O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotterl@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Medication- Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. During today’s visit in space #2, two Ventolin HFA inhalers did not have an asthma action plan or written authorization on file and one Ventolin HFA inhaler expired in January 2025. You shared that one inhaler belonged to a child that is no longer enrolled in the program. When asked how often medications were monitored, a timeframe or schedule was not provided. Develop a medication monitoring system to check medications, labels, authorizations, and medical action plans together during regular audits. Train staff to immediately report missing, outdated, or incomplete forms to a member of management. Storage of Hazardous Items- All hazardous substances, including cleaning produces and chemicals must be stored securely in locked storage, preventing accidental ingestion, inhalation and skin exposure. Today there was one bottle of rubbing alcohol stored on shelf, above five feet, in space #4. It was reported that staff used the rubbing alcohol to clean permanent marker form the sleeping mats and was not returned to the locked storage closet. During the visit you removed the rubbing alcohol and talked to the classroom staff about storing things properly. Conduct full classroom inspections prior to caring for children. Records Management- Organized, current and accurate records help to protect children’s health and safety, reduce risks and demonstrate proper program oversight. During today’s visit a child enrolled on 8/27/25 did not have a medical assessment on file for review. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had a medical assessment and immunization record on file dated 4/9/26. It was reported that sometime parents share they have a hard time getting the records from the doctor’s office or can not get to the doctor’s office. We discussed options for ensuring documents are received on time such as allowing families a period shorter than 30 days to submit the records to you and send reminders to families. Additionally, using a reminder system to check the files of newly enrolled children at least weekly during the first 30 days to ensure all required documents are on file. Staff employed on 6/12/23, 6/12/23, 7/13/23, 8/2/23, 10/16/23, 10/26/23, and 4/25/25 had health questionnaires and emergency information on file dated April 2025. You shared that you have been focused on the expansion of the program and missed the April deadline. We discussed making a set date as the renewal date for all documents. You shared this option would be easier for you to track. Develop a tracking calendar for expiration dates and renewal deadlines. Staff employed on 3/20/26, 4/15/26, and 4/15/26 did not have signed acknowledgement of the Shaken Baby and Head Trauma Prevention Policy, Personnel policies, and operational policies. You shared you covered the policies in orientation and both you and the staff signed off on the orientation documentation log. We discussed having the acknowledgment statement with you during the training and signing the policies as the training/review is completed and immediately adding them to each personnel file. EPR- An Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR Plan) helps protect children and staff during emergencies by knowing what to do and where to go. The plan gives clear procedures to follow so they can respond quickly, safely, and calmly. The facility EPR Plan must be reviewed and revised at least annually and when changes occur. The EPR Plan on file was last reviewed on February 13, 2025. You shared you had been spending time focused on the expansion that the date was missed by mistake. Develop a tracking calendar for expiration dates and renewal deadlines. Sanitation- Maintaining proper sanitation practices protects children from illness and contamination. During today’s visit the refrigerator in space #5 read 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It was shared that where is a lot of opening and closing of the refrigerator door in the morning with parents bringing in bottles and preparing bottles for feedings. I noticed the freezer section of the refrigerator had frost buildup, and several bottles were warm to the touch. It was reported that families may be making bottles in the mornings prior to bringing their child to the facility. Placing warm bottles or food into the refrigerator raises the internal temperature, causing the appliance to work harder and potentially warm the surrounding items inside. Have parents prepare bottles the night before, labeling them for the date they are delivered to the program. In space #3, there were two meal plates stored on the changing table. The plates were disposed of, and new meals were brought in from the kitchen and placed on the eating table for the children. You spoke with the staff about keeping the changing table surface clear. We discussed using the cleaned and sanitized shelf top as a place to store plates as staff prepare for meal service or having kitchen staff to only bring in the number of plates needed at that moment as children in the space eat on their own schedule. Consultation: Pathways to the Stars- Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued January 7, 2024. You shared your wish to pursue the Classroom and Instructional Quality pathway. You shared you have purchased the Experience Early Learning curriculum and assessment tool. You are currently working with staff to complete education and update their WORKS accounts. We reviewed the Classroom and Instructional Quality pathway requirements, and you are working through your plan to implement all the components. You plan to submit your application for reassessment in November 2026. Additional comments: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. ABCMS- You have completed the ABCMS Provider Portal training. Log in and create a roster for your facility. An ABCMS Provider Portal Technical Assistance Guild was provided to you and is located on the ABCMS website. At the completion of the visit, I reviewed violations with you, however, due to connectivity issues, I was not able to print an electronic version of the visit summary. I provided the operator with a one-page visit summary and will follow up with an electronic visit summary sent to the facility email. Please respond that it has been received. Contact me at LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Generated from this facility's specific inspection record
Data synced from North Carolina's child care licensing agency on Jul 9, 2026 · Report an error
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0302 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/7/2026 Number Present: 21 Completed Date: 5/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 369 Time In: 08:26 AM Time Out: 02:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued January 7, 2024, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for using a developmentally appropriate curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The sanitation inspection was completed February 25, 2026 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted October 13, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty two percent as of May 5, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 5, 2026, and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center, LLC was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor space were monitored. Five of children were observed engaging in indoor free play, transitions, and meals. Teachers were engaging with children through conversation, singing, and reading. Learning posters and children’s artwork hang on the classroom walls. Room arrangements have been changed since the last visit. Learning materials were stored on low lying shelves for easy access. Breakfast was observed and consisted of beagles with jelly, oatmeal, yogurt, mixed fruit, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 526 Menus for all meals and snacks were not current or posted where easily seen by parents and cook. The menu posted in the lobby and in the kitchen were dated 4/27/26-5/1/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The thermometer in the refrigerator in space #5 read 50 degrees F. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 618 Diaper changing surfaces were not kept free of storage. There were two meal plates located on the changing table in space #3. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One bottle of 50% Isopropyl Alcohol was stored on a shelf, above five feet in space #4. .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Written authorization was not on file for two Ventolin HFA inhalers located in space #2. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. One Ventolin HFA inhaler, located in space #2, expired January 2026. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Seven staff files reviewed had health questionnaires that expired in April 2026. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Seven staff files reviewed contained emergency information that expired in April 2026. .0701(a) 1233 Each employee's personnel file did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. Signed acknowledgment of personnel and operational policies was not on file for three staff. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(g) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. A child enrolled on 8/27/24 did not have a medical report on file. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had a medical report on file dated 4/9/26. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had an immunization report on file dated 4/9/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR Plan on file was last reviewed/revised on February 13, 2025. .0607(e) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. An asthma action plan was not on file for two Ventolin HFA inhalers located in space #2. .0801(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Three of ten staff files reviewed did not contain signed acknowledgement of review of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. .0608(d)(1-4) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 21, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P. O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotterl@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Medication- Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. During today’s visit in space #2, two Ventolin HFA inhalers did not have an asthma action plan or written authorization on file and one Ventolin HFA inhaler expired in January 2025. You shared that one inhaler belonged to a child that is no longer enrolled in the program. When asked how often medications were monitored, a timeframe or schedule was not provided. Develop a medication monitoring system to check medications, labels, authorizations, and medical action plans together during regular audits. Train staff to immediately report missing, outdated, or incomplete forms to a member of management. Storage of Hazardous Items- All hazardous substances, including cleaning produces and chemicals must be stored securely in locked storage, preventing accidental ingestion, inhalation and skin exposure. Today there was one bottle of rubbing alcohol stored on shelf, above five feet, in space #4. It was reported that staff used the rubbing alcohol to clean permanent marker form the sleeping mats and was not returned to the locked storage closet. During the visit you removed the rubbing alcohol and talked to the classroom staff about storing things properly. Conduct full classroom inspections prior to caring for children. Records Management- Organized, current and accurate records help to protect children’s health and safety, reduce risks and demonstrate proper program oversight. During today’s visit a child enrolled on 8/27/25 did not have a medical assessment on file for review. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had a medical assessment and immunization record on file dated 4/9/26. It was reported that sometime parents share they have a hard time getting the records from the doctor’s office or can not get to the doctor’s office. We discussed options for ensuring documents are received on time such as allowing families a period shorter than 30 days to submit the records to you and send reminders to families. Additionally, using a reminder system to check the files of newly enrolled children at least weekly during the first 30 days to ensure all required documents are on file. Staff employed on 6/12/23, 6/12/23, 7/13/23, 8/2/23, 10/16/23, 10/26/23, and 4/25/25 had health questionnaires and emergency information on file dated April 2025. You shared that you have been focused on the expansion of the program and missed the April deadline. We discussed making a set date as the renewal date for all documents. You shared this option would be easier for you to track. Develop a tracking calendar for expiration dates and renewal deadlines. Staff employed on 3/20/26, 4/15/26, and 4/15/26 did not have signed acknowledgement of the Shaken Baby and Head Trauma Prevention Policy, Personnel policies, and operational policies. You shared you covered the policies in orientation and both you and the staff signed off on the orientation documentation log. We discussed having the acknowledgment statement with you during the training and signing the policies as the training/review is completed and immediately adding them to each personnel file. EPR- An Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR Plan) helps protect children and staff during emergencies by knowing what to do and where to go. The plan gives clear procedures to follow so they can respond quickly, safely, and calmly. The facility EPR Plan must be reviewed and revised at least annually and when changes occur. The EPR Plan on file was last reviewed on February 13, 2025. You shared you had been spending time focused on the expansion that the date was missed by mistake. Develop a tracking calendar for expiration dates and renewal deadlines. Sanitation- Maintaining proper sanitation practices protects children from illness and contamination. During today’s visit the refrigerator in space #5 read 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It was shared that where is a lot of opening and closing of the refrigerator door in the morning with parents bringing in bottles and preparing bottles for feedings. I noticed the freezer section of the refrigerator had frost buildup, and several bottles were warm to the touch. It was reported that families may be making bottles in the mornings prior to bringing their child to the facility. Placing warm bottles or food into the refrigerator raises the internal temperature, causing the appliance to work harder and potentially warm the surrounding items inside. Have parents prepare bottles the night before, labeling them for the date they are delivered to the program. In space #3, there were two meal plates stored on the changing table. The plates were disposed of, and new meals were brought in from the kitchen and placed on the eating table for the children. You spoke with the staff about keeping the changing table surface clear. We discussed using the cleaned and sanitized shelf top as a place to store plates as staff prepare for meal service or having kitchen staff to only bring in the number of plates needed at that moment as children in the space eat on their own schedule. Consultation: Pathways to the Stars- Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued January 7, 2024. You shared your wish to pursue the Classroom and Instructional Quality pathway. You shared you have purchased the Experience Early Learning curriculum and assessment tool. You are currently working with staff to complete education and update their WORKS accounts. We reviewed the Classroom and Instructional Quality pathway requirements, and you are working through your plan to implement all the components. You plan to submit your application for reassessment in November 2026. Additional comments: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. ABCMS- You have completed the ABCMS Provider Portal training. Log in and create a roster for your facility. An ABCMS Provider Portal Technical Assistance Guild was provided to you and is located on the ABCMS website. At the completion of the visit, I reviewed violations with you, however, due to connectivity issues, I was not able to print an electronic version of the visit summary. I provided the operator with a one-page visit summary and will follow up with an electronic visit summary sent to the facility email. Please respond that it has been received. Contact me at LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0514 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/7/2026 Number Present: 21 Completed Date: 5/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 369 Time In: 08:26 AM Time Out: 02:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued January 7, 2024, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for using a developmentally appropriate curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The sanitation inspection was completed February 25, 2026 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted October 13, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty two percent as of May 5, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 5, 2026, and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center, LLC was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor space were monitored. Five of children were observed engaging in indoor free play, transitions, and meals. Teachers were engaging with children through conversation, singing, and reading. Learning posters and children’s artwork hang on the classroom walls. Room arrangements have been changed since the last visit. Learning materials were stored on low lying shelves for easy access. Breakfast was observed and consisted of beagles with jelly, oatmeal, yogurt, mixed fruit, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 526 Menus for all meals and snacks were not current or posted where easily seen by parents and cook. The menu posted in the lobby and in the kitchen were dated 4/27/26-5/1/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The thermometer in the refrigerator in space #5 read 50 degrees F. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 618 Diaper changing surfaces were not kept free of storage. There were two meal plates located on the changing table in space #3. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One bottle of 50% Isopropyl Alcohol was stored on a shelf, above five feet in space #4. .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Written authorization was not on file for two Ventolin HFA inhalers located in space #2. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. One Ventolin HFA inhaler, located in space #2, expired January 2026. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Seven staff files reviewed had health questionnaires that expired in April 2026. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Seven staff files reviewed contained emergency information that expired in April 2026. .0701(a) 1233 Each employee's personnel file did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. Signed acknowledgment of personnel and operational policies was not on file for three staff. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(g) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. A child enrolled on 8/27/24 did not have a medical report on file. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had a medical report on file dated 4/9/26. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had an immunization report on file dated 4/9/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR Plan on file was last reviewed/revised on February 13, 2025. .0607(e) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. An asthma action plan was not on file for two Ventolin HFA inhalers located in space #2. .0801(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Three of ten staff files reviewed did not contain signed acknowledgement of review of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. .0608(d)(1-4) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 21, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P. O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotterl@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Medication- Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. During today’s visit in space #2, two Ventolin HFA inhalers did not have an asthma action plan or written authorization on file and one Ventolin HFA inhaler expired in January 2025. You shared that one inhaler belonged to a child that is no longer enrolled in the program. When asked how often medications were monitored, a timeframe or schedule was not provided. Develop a medication monitoring system to check medications, labels, authorizations, and medical action plans together during regular audits. Train staff to immediately report missing, outdated, or incomplete forms to a member of management. Storage of Hazardous Items- All hazardous substances, including cleaning produces and chemicals must be stored securely in locked storage, preventing accidental ingestion, inhalation and skin exposure. Today there was one bottle of rubbing alcohol stored on shelf, above five feet, in space #4. It was reported that staff used the rubbing alcohol to clean permanent marker form the sleeping mats and was not returned to the locked storage closet. During the visit you removed the rubbing alcohol and talked to the classroom staff about storing things properly. Conduct full classroom inspections prior to caring for children. Records Management- Organized, current and accurate records help to protect children’s health and safety, reduce risks and demonstrate proper program oversight. During today’s visit a child enrolled on 8/27/25 did not have a medical assessment on file for review. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had a medical assessment and immunization record on file dated 4/9/26. It was reported that sometime parents share they have a hard time getting the records from the doctor’s office or can not get to the doctor’s office. We discussed options for ensuring documents are received on time such as allowing families a period shorter than 30 days to submit the records to you and send reminders to families. Additionally, using a reminder system to check the files of newly enrolled children at least weekly during the first 30 days to ensure all required documents are on file. Staff employed on 6/12/23, 6/12/23, 7/13/23, 8/2/23, 10/16/23, 10/26/23, and 4/25/25 had health questionnaires and emergency information on file dated April 2025. You shared that you have been focused on the expansion of the program and missed the April deadline. We discussed making a set date as the renewal date for all documents. You shared this option would be easier for you to track. Develop a tracking calendar for expiration dates and renewal deadlines. Staff employed on 3/20/26, 4/15/26, and 4/15/26 did not have signed acknowledgement of the Shaken Baby and Head Trauma Prevention Policy, Personnel policies, and operational policies. You shared you covered the policies in orientation and both you and the staff signed off on the orientation documentation log. We discussed having the acknowledgment statement with you during the training and signing the policies as the training/review is completed and immediately adding them to each personnel file. EPR- An Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR Plan) helps protect children and staff during emergencies by knowing what to do and where to go. The plan gives clear procedures to follow so they can respond quickly, safely, and calmly. The facility EPR Plan must be reviewed and revised at least annually and when changes occur. The EPR Plan on file was last reviewed on February 13, 2025. You shared you had been spending time focused on the expansion that the date was missed by mistake. Develop a tracking calendar for expiration dates and renewal deadlines. Sanitation- Maintaining proper sanitation practices protects children from illness and contamination. During today’s visit the refrigerator in space #5 read 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It was shared that where is a lot of opening and closing of the refrigerator door in the morning with parents bringing in bottles and preparing bottles for feedings. I noticed the freezer section of the refrigerator had frost buildup, and several bottles were warm to the touch. It was reported that families may be making bottles in the mornings prior to bringing their child to the facility. Placing warm bottles or food into the refrigerator raises the internal temperature, causing the appliance to work harder and potentially warm the surrounding items inside. Have parents prepare bottles the night before, labeling them for the date they are delivered to the program. In space #3, there were two meal plates stored on the changing table. The plates were disposed of, and new meals were brought in from the kitchen and placed on the eating table for the children. You spoke with the staff about keeping the changing table surface clear. We discussed using the cleaned and sanitized shelf top as a place to store plates as staff prepare for meal service or having kitchen staff to only bring in the number of plates needed at that moment as children in the space eat on their own schedule. Consultation: Pathways to the Stars- Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued January 7, 2024. You shared your wish to pursue the Classroom and Instructional Quality pathway. You shared you have purchased the Experience Early Learning curriculum and assessment tool. You are currently working with staff to complete education and update their WORKS accounts. We reviewed the Classroom and Instructional Quality pathway requirements, and you are working through your plan to implement all the components. You plan to submit your application for reassessment in November 2026. Additional comments: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. ABCMS- You have completed the ABCMS Provider Portal training. Log in and create a roster for your facility. An ABCMS Provider Portal Technical Assistance Guild was provided to you and is located on the ABCMS website. At the completion of the visit, I reviewed violations with you, however, due to connectivity issues, I was not able to print an electronic version of the visit summary. I provided the operator with a one-page visit summary and will follow up with an electronic visit summary sent to the facility email. Please respond that it has been received. Contact me at LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/7/2026 Number Present: 21 Completed Date: 5/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 369 Time In: 08:26 AM Time Out: 02:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued January 7, 2024, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for using a developmentally appropriate curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The sanitation inspection was completed February 25, 2026 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted October 13, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty two percent as of May 5, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 5, 2026, and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center, LLC was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor space were monitored. Five of children were observed engaging in indoor free play, transitions, and meals. Teachers were engaging with children through conversation, singing, and reading. Learning posters and children’s artwork hang on the classroom walls. Room arrangements have been changed since the last visit. Learning materials were stored on low lying shelves for easy access. Breakfast was observed and consisted of beagles with jelly, oatmeal, yogurt, mixed fruit, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 526 Menus for all meals and snacks were not current or posted where easily seen by parents and cook. The menu posted in the lobby and in the kitchen were dated 4/27/26-5/1/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The thermometer in the refrigerator in space #5 read 50 degrees F. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 618 Diaper changing surfaces were not kept free of storage. There were two meal plates located on the changing table in space #3. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One bottle of 50% Isopropyl Alcohol was stored on a shelf, above five feet in space #4. .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Written authorization was not on file for two Ventolin HFA inhalers located in space #2. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. One Ventolin HFA inhaler, located in space #2, expired January 2026. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Seven staff files reviewed had health questionnaires that expired in April 2026. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Seven staff files reviewed contained emergency information that expired in April 2026. .0701(a) 1233 Each employee's personnel file did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. Signed acknowledgment of personnel and operational policies was not on file for three staff. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(g) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. A child enrolled on 8/27/24 did not have a medical report on file. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had a medical report on file dated 4/9/26. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had an immunization report on file dated 4/9/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR Plan on file was last reviewed/revised on February 13, 2025. .0607(e) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. An asthma action plan was not on file for two Ventolin HFA inhalers located in space #2. .0801(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Three of ten staff files reviewed did not contain signed acknowledgement of review of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. .0608(d)(1-4) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 21, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P. O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotterl@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Medication- Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. During today’s visit in space #2, two Ventolin HFA inhalers did not have an asthma action plan or written authorization on file and one Ventolin HFA inhaler expired in January 2025. You shared that one inhaler belonged to a child that is no longer enrolled in the program. When asked how often medications were monitored, a timeframe or schedule was not provided. Develop a medication monitoring system to check medications, labels, authorizations, and medical action plans together during regular audits. Train staff to immediately report missing, outdated, or incomplete forms to a member of management. Storage of Hazardous Items- All hazardous substances, including cleaning produces and chemicals must be stored securely in locked storage, preventing accidental ingestion, inhalation and skin exposure. Today there was one bottle of rubbing alcohol stored on shelf, above five feet, in space #4. It was reported that staff used the rubbing alcohol to clean permanent marker form the sleeping mats and was not returned to the locked storage closet. During the visit you removed the rubbing alcohol and talked to the classroom staff about storing things properly. Conduct full classroom inspections prior to caring for children. Records Management- Organized, current and accurate records help to protect children’s health and safety, reduce risks and demonstrate proper program oversight. During today’s visit a child enrolled on 8/27/25 did not have a medical assessment on file for review. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had a medical assessment and immunization record on file dated 4/9/26. It was reported that sometime parents share they have a hard time getting the records from the doctor’s office or can not get to the doctor’s office. We discussed options for ensuring documents are received on time such as allowing families a period shorter than 30 days to submit the records to you and send reminders to families. Additionally, using a reminder system to check the files of newly enrolled children at least weekly during the first 30 days to ensure all required documents are on file. Staff employed on 6/12/23, 6/12/23, 7/13/23, 8/2/23, 10/16/23, 10/26/23, and 4/25/25 had health questionnaires and emergency information on file dated April 2025. You shared that you have been focused on the expansion of the program and missed the April deadline. We discussed making a set date as the renewal date for all documents. You shared this option would be easier for you to track. Develop a tracking calendar for expiration dates and renewal deadlines. Staff employed on 3/20/26, 4/15/26, and 4/15/26 did not have signed acknowledgement of the Shaken Baby and Head Trauma Prevention Policy, Personnel policies, and operational policies. You shared you covered the policies in orientation and both you and the staff signed off on the orientation documentation log. We discussed having the acknowledgment statement with you during the training and signing the policies as the training/review is completed and immediately adding them to each personnel file. EPR- An Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR Plan) helps protect children and staff during emergencies by knowing what to do and where to go. The plan gives clear procedures to follow so they can respond quickly, safely, and calmly. The facility EPR Plan must be reviewed and revised at least annually and when changes occur. The EPR Plan on file was last reviewed on February 13, 2025. You shared you had been spending time focused on the expansion that the date was missed by mistake. Develop a tracking calendar for expiration dates and renewal deadlines. Sanitation- Maintaining proper sanitation practices protects children from illness and contamination. During today’s visit the refrigerator in space #5 read 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It was shared that where is a lot of opening and closing of the refrigerator door in the morning with parents bringing in bottles and preparing bottles for feedings. I noticed the freezer section of the refrigerator had frost buildup, and several bottles were warm to the touch. It was reported that families may be making bottles in the mornings prior to bringing their child to the facility. Placing warm bottles or food into the refrigerator raises the internal temperature, causing the appliance to work harder and potentially warm the surrounding items inside. Have parents prepare bottles the night before, labeling them for the date they are delivered to the program. In space #3, there were two meal plates stored on the changing table. The plates were disposed of, and new meals were brought in from the kitchen and placed on the eating table for the children. You spoke with the staff about keeping the changing table surface clear. We discussed using the cleaned and sanitized shelf top as a place to store plates as staff prepare for meal service or having kitchen staff to only bring in the number of plates needed at that moment as children in the space eat on their own schedule. Consultation: Pathways to the Stars- Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued January 7, 2024. You shared your wish to pursue the Classroom and Instructional Quality pathway. You shared you have purchased the Experience Early Learning curriculum and assessment tool. You are currently working with staff to complete education and update their WORKS accounts. We reviewed the Classroom and Instructional Quality pathway requirements, and you are working through your plan to implement all the components. You plan to submit your application for reassessment in November 2026. Additional comments: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. ABCMS- You have completed the ABCMS Provider Portal training. Log in and create a roster for your facility. An ABCMS Provider Portal Technical Assistance Guild was provided to you and is located on the ABCMS website. At the completion of the visit, I reviewed violations with you, however, due to connectivity issues, I was not able to print an electronic version of the visit summary. I provided the operator with a one-page visit summary and will follow up with an electronic visit summary sent to the facility email. Please respond that it has been received. Contact me at LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0901 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/7/2026 Number Present: 21 Completed Date: 5/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 369 Time In: 08:26 AM Time Out: 02:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued January 7, 2024, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for using a developmentally appropriate curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The sanitation inspection was completed February 25, 2026 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted October 13, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty two percent as of May 5, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 5, 2026, and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center, LLC was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor space were monitored. Five of children were observed engaging in indoor free play, transitions, and meals. Teachers were engaging with children through conversation, singing, and reading. Learning posters and children’s artwork hang on the classroom walls. Room arrangements have been changed since the last visit. Learning materials were stored on low lying shelves for easy access. Breakfast was observed and consisted of beagles with jelly, oatmeal, yogurt, mixed fruit, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 526 Menus for all meals and snacks were not current or posted where easily seen by parents and cook. The menu posted in the lobby and in the kitchen were dated 4/27/26-5/1/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The thermometer in the refrigerator in space #5 read 50 degrees F. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 618 Diaper changing surfaces were not kept free of storage. There were two meal plates located on the changing table in space #3. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One bottle of 50% Isopropyl Alcohol was stored on a shelf, above five feet in space #4. .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Written authorization was not on file for two Ventolin HFA inhalers located in space #2. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. One Ventolin HFA inhaler, located in space #2, expired January 2026. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Seven staff files reviewed had health questionnaires that expired in April 2026. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Seven staff files reviewed contained emergency information that expired in April 2026. .0701(a) 1233 Each employee's personnel file did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. Signed acknowledgment of personnel and operational policies was not on file for three staff. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(g) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. A child enrolled on 8/27/24 did not have a medical report on file. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had a medical report on file dated 4/9/26. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had an immunization report on file dated 4/9/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR Plan on file was last reviewed/revised on February 13, 2025. .0607(e) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. An asthma action plan was not on file for two Ventolin HFA inhalers located in space #2. .0801(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Three of ten staff files reviewed did not contain signed acknowledgement of review of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. .0608(d)(1-4) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 21, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P. O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotterl@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Medication- Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. During today’s visit in space #2, two Ventolin HFA inhalers did not have an asthma action plan or written authorization on file and one Ventolin HFA inhaler expired in January 2025. You shared that one inhaler belonged to a child that is no longer enrolled in the program. When asked how often medications were monitored, a timeframe or schedule was not provided. Develop a medication monitoring system to check medications, labels, authorizations, and medical action plans together during regular audits. Train staff to immediately report missing, outdated, or incomplete forms to a member of management. Storage of Hazardous Items- All hazardous substances, including cleaning produces and chemicals must be stored securely in locked storage, preventing accidental ingestion, inhalation and skin exposure. Today there was one bottle of rubbing alcohol stored on shelf, above five feet, in space #4. It was reported that staff used the rubbing alcohol to clean permanent marker form the sleeping mats and was not returned to the locked storage closet. During the visit you removed the rubbing alcohol and talked to the classroom staff about storing things properly. Conduct full classroom inspections prior to caring for children. Records Management- Organized, current and accurate records help to protect children’s health and safety, reduce risks and demonstrate proper program oversight. During today’s visit a child enrolled on 8/27/25 did not have a medical assessment on file for review. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had a medical assessment and immunization record on file dated 4/9/26. It was reported that sometime parents share they have a hard time getting the records from the doctor’s office or can not get to the doctor’s office. We discussed options for ensuring documents are received on time such as allowing families a period shorter than 30 days to submit the records to you and send reminders to families. Additionally, using a reminder system to check the files of newly enrolled children at least weekly during the first 30 days to ensure all required documents are on file. Staff employed on 6/12/23, 6/12/23, 7/13/23, 8/2/23, 10/16/23, 10/26/23, and 4/25/25 had health questionnaires and emergency information on file dated April 2025. You shared that you have been focused on the expansion of the program and missed the April deadline. We discussed making a set date as the renewal date for all documents. You shared this option would be easier for you to track. Develop a tracking calendar for expiration dates and renewal deadlines. Staff employed on 3/20/26, 4/15/26, and 4/15/26 did not have signed acknowledgement of the Shaken Baby and Head Trauma Prevention Policy, Personnel policies, and operational policies. You shared you covered the policies in orientation and both you and the staff signed off on the orientation documentation log. We discussed having the acknowledgment statement with you during the training and signing the policies as the training/review is completed and immediately adding them to each personnel file. EPR- An Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR Plan) helps protect children and staff during emergencies by knowing what to do and where to go. The plan gives clear procedures to follow so they can respond quickly, safely, and calmly. The facility EPR Plan must be reviewed and revised at least annually and when changes occur. The EPR Plan on file was last reviewed on February 13, 2025. You shared you had been spending time focused on the expansion that the date was missed by mistake. Develop a tracking calendar for expiration dates and renewal deadlines. Sanitation- Maintaining proper sanitation practices protects children from illness and contamination. During today’s visit the refrigerator in space #5 read 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It was shared that where is a lot of opening and closing of the refrigerator door in the morning with parents bringing in bottles and preparing bottles for feedings. I noticed the freezer section of the refrigerator had frost buildup, and several bottles were warm to the touch. It was reported that families may be making bottles in the mornings prior to bringing their child to the facility. Placing warm bottles or food into the refrigerator raises the internal temperature, causing the appliance to work harder and potentially warm the surrounding items inside. Have parents prepare bottles the night before, labeling them for the date they are delivered to the program. In space #3, there were two meal plates stored on the changing table. The plates were disposed of, and new meals were brought in from the kitchen and placed on the eating table for the children. You spoke with the staff about keeping the changing table surface clear. We discussed using the cleaned and sanitized shelf top as a place to store plates as staff prepare for meal service or having kitchen staff to only bring in the number of plates needed at that moment as children in the space eat on their own schedule. Consultation: Pathways to the Stars- Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued January 7, 2024. You shared your wish to pursue the Classroom and Instructional Quality pathway. You shared you have purchased the Experience Early Learning curriculum and assessment tool. You are currently working with staff to complete education and update their WORKS accounts. We reviewed the Classroom and Instructional Quality pathway requirements, and you are working through your plan to implement all the components. You plan to submit your application for reassessment in November 2026. Additional comments: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. ABCMS- You have completed the ABCMS Provider Portal training. Log in and create a roster for your facility. An ABCMS Provider Portal Technical Assistance Guild was provided to you and is located on the ABCMS website. At the completion of the visit, I reviewed violations with you, however, due to connectivity issues, I was not able to print an electronic version of the visit summary. I provided the operator with a one-page visit summary and will follow up with an electronic visit summary sent to the facility email. Please respond that it has been received. Contact me at LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
GS 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/7/2026 Number Present: 21 Completed Date: 5/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 369 Time In: 08:26 AM Time Out: 02:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued January 7, 2024, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for using a developmentally appropriate curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The sanitation inspection was completed February 25, 2026 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted October 13, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty two percent as of May 5, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 5, 2026, and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center, LLC was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor space were monitored. Five of children were observed engaging in indoor free play, transitions, and meals. Teachers were engaging with children through conversation, singing, and reading. Learning posters and children’s artwork hang on the classroom walls. Room arrangements have been changed since the last visit. Learning materials were stored on low lying shelves for easy access. Breakfast was observed and consisted of beagles with jelly, oatmeal, yogurt, mixed fruit, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 526 Menus for all meals and snacks were not current or posted where easily seen by parents and cook. The menu posted in the lobby and in the kitchen were dated 4/27/26-5/1/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The thermometer in the refrigerator in space #5 read 50 degrees F. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 618 Diaper changing surfaces were not kept free of storage. There were two meal plates located on the changing table in space #3. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One bottle of 50% Isopropyl Alcohol was stored on a shelf, above five feet in space #4. .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Written authorization was not on file for two Ventolin HFA inhalers located in space #2. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. One Ventolin HFA inhaler, located in space #2, expired January 2026. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Seven staff files reviewed had health questionnaires that expired in April 2026. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Seven staff files reviewed contained emergency information that expired in April 2026. .0701(a) 1233 Each employee's personnel file did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. Signed acknowledgment of personnel and operational policies was not on file for three staff. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(g) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. A child enrolled on 8/27/24 did not have a medical report on file. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had a medical report on file dated 4/9/26. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had an immunization report on file dated 4/9/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR Plan on file was last reviewed/revised on February 13, 2025. .0607(e) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. An asthma action plan was not on file for two Ventolin HFA inhalers located in space #2. .0801(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Three of ten staff files reviewed did not contain signed acknowledgement of review of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. .0608(d)(1-4) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 21, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P. O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotterl@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Medication- Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. During today’s visit in space #2, two Ventolin HFA inhalers did not have an asthma action plan or written authorization on file and one Ventolin HFA inhaler expired in January 2025. You shared that one inhaler belonged to a child that is no longer enrolled in the program. When asked how often medications were monitored, a timeframe or schedule was not provided. Develop a medication monitoring system to check medications, labels, authorizations, and medical action plans together during regular audits. Train staff to immediately report missing, outdated, or incomplete forms to a member of management. Storage of Hazardous Items- All hazardous substances, including cleaning produces and chemicals must be stored securely in locked storage, preventing accidental ingestion, inhalation and skin exposure. Today there was one bottle of rubbing alcohol stored on shelf, above five feet, in space #4. It was reported that staff used the rubbing alcohol to clean permanent marker form the sleeping mats and was not returned to the locked storage closet. During the visit you removed the rubbing alcohol and talked to the classroom staff about storing things properly. Conduct full classroom inspections prior to caring for children. Records Management- Organized, current and accurate records help to protect children’s health and safety, reduce risks and demonstrate proper program oversight. During today’s visit a child enrolled on 8/27/25 did not have a medical assessment on file for review. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had a medical assessment and immunization record on file dated 4/9/26. It was reported that sometime parents share they have a hard time getting the records from the doctor’s office or can not get to the doctor’s office. We discussed options for ensuring documents are received on time such as allowing families a period shorter than 30 days to submit the records to you and send reminders to families. Additionally, using a reminder system to check the files of newly enrolled children at least weekly during the first 30 days to ensure all required documents are on file. Staff employed on 6/12/23, 6/12/23, 7/13/23, 8/2/23, 10/16/23, 10/26/23, and 4/25/25 had health questionnaires and emergency information on file dated April 2025. You shared that you have been focused on the expansion of the program and missed the April deadline. We discussed making a set date as the renewal date for all documents. You shared this option would be easier for you to track. Develop a tracking calendar for expiration dates and renewal deadlines. Staff employed on 3/20/26, 4/15/26, and 4/15/26 did not have signed acknowledgement of the Shaken Baby and Head Trauma Prevention Policy, Personnel policies, and operational policies. You shared you covered the policies in orientation and both you and the staff signed off on the orientation documentation log. We discussed having the acknowledgment statement with you during the training and signing the policies as the training/review is completed and immediately adding them to each personnel file. EPR- An Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR Plan) helps protect children and staff during emergencies by knowing what to do and where to go. The plan gives clear procedures to follow so they can respond quickly, safely, and calmly. The facility EPR Plan must be reviewed and revised at least annually and when changes occur. The EPR Plan on file was last reviewed on February 13, 2025. You shared you had been spending time focused on the expansion that the date was missed by mistake. Develop a tracking calendar for expiration dates and renewal deadlines. Sanitation- Maintaining proper sanitation practices protects children from illness and contamination. During today’s visit the refrigerator in space #5 read 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It was shared that where is a lot of opening and closing of the refrigerator door in the morning with parents bringing in bottles and preparing bottles for feedings. I noticed the freezer section of the refrigerator had frost buildup, and several bottles were warm to the touch. It was reported that families may be making bottles in the mornings prior to bringing their child to the facility. Placing warm bottles or food into the refrigerator raises the internal temperature, causing the appliance to work harder and potentially warm the surrounding items inside. Have parents prepare bottles the night before, labeling them for the date they are delivered to the program. In space #3, there were two meal plates stored on the changing table. The plates were disposed of, and new meals were brought in from the kitchen and placed on the eating table for the children. You spoke with the staff about keeping the changing table surface clear. We discussed using the cleaned and sanitized shelf top as a place to store plates as staff prepare for meal service or having kitchen staff to only bring in the number of plates needed at that moment as children in the space eat on their own schedule. Consultation: Pathways to the Stars- Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued January 7, 2024. You shared your wish to pursue the Classroom and Instructional Quality pathway. You shared you have purchased the Experience Early Learning curriculum and assessment tool. You are currently working with staff to complete education and update their WORKS accounts. We reviewed the Classroom and Instructional Quality pathway requirements, and you are working through your plan to implement all the components. You plan to submit your application for reassessment in November 2026. Additional comments: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. ABCMS- You have completed the ABCMS Provider Portal training. Log in and create a roster for your facility. An ABCMS Provider Portal Technical Assistance Guild was provided to you and is located on the ABCMS website. At the completion of the visit, I reviewed violations with you, however, due to connectivity issues, I was not able to print an electronic version of the visit summary. I provided the operator with a one-page visit summary and will follow up with an electronic visit summary sent to the facility email. Please respond that it has been received. Contact me at LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
GS110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/7/2026 Number Present: 21 Completed Date: 5/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 369 Time In: 08:26 AM Time Out: 02:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued January 7, 2024, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for using a developmentally appropriate curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The sanitation inspection was completed February 25, 2026 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted October 13, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty two percent as of May 5, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 5, 2026, and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center, LLC was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor space were monitored. Five of children were observed engaging in indoor free play, transitions, and meals. Teachers were engaging with children through conversation, singing, and reading. Learning posters and children’s artwork hang on the classroom walls. Room arrangements have been changed since the last visit. Learning materials were stored on low lying shelves for easy access. Breakfast was observed and consisted of beagles with jelly, oatmeal, yogurt, mixed fruit, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 526 Menus for all meals and snacks were not current or posted where easily seen by parents and cook. The menu posted in the lobby and in the kitchen were dated 4/27/26-5/1/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The thermometer in the refrigerator in space #5 read 50 degrees F. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 618 Diaper changing surfaces were not kept free of storage. There were two meal plates located on the changing table in space #3. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One bottle of 50% Isopropyl Alcohol was stored on a shelf, above five feet in space #4. .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Written authorization was not on file for two Ventolin HFA inhalers located in space #2. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. One Ventolin HFA inhaler, located in space #2, expired January 2026. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Seven staff files reviewed had health questionnaires that expired in April 2026. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Seven staff files reviewed contained emergency information that expired in April 2026. .0701(a) 1233 Each employee's personnel file did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. Signed acknowledgment of personnel and operational policies was not on file for three staff. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(g) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. A child enrolled on 8/27/24 did not have a medical report on file. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had a medical report on file dated 4/9/26. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had an immunization report on file dated 4/9/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR Plan on file was last reviewed/revised on February 13, 2025. .0607(e) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. An asthma action plan was not on file for two Ventolin HFA inhalers located in space #2. .0801(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Three of ten staff files reviewed did not contain signed acknowledgement of review of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. .0608(d)(1-4) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 21, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P. O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotterl@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Medication- Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. During today’s visit in space #2, two Ventolin HFA inhalers did not have an asthma action plan or written authorization on file and one Ventolin HFA inhaler expired in January 2025. You shared that one inhaler belonged to a child that is no longer enrolled in the program. When asked how often medications were monitored, a timeframe or schedule was not provided. Develop a medication monitoring system to check medications, labels, authorizations, and medical action plans together during regular audits. Train staff to immediately report missing, outdated, or incomplete forms to a member of management. Storage of Hazardous Items- All hazardous substances, including cleaning produces and chemicals must be stored securely in locked storage, preventing accidental ingestion, inhalation and skin exposure. Today there was one bottle of rubbing alcohol stored on shelf, above five feet, in space #4. It was reported that staff used the rubbing alcohol to clean permanent marker form the sleeping mats and was not returned to the locked storage closet. During the visit you removed the rubbing alcohol and talked to the classroom staff about storing things properly. Conduct full classroom inspections prior to caring for children. Records Management- Organized, current and accurate records help to protect children’s health and safety, reduce risks and demonstrate proper program oversight. During today’s visit a child enrolled on 8/27/25 did not have a medical assessment on file for review. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had a medical assessment and immunization record on file dated 4/9/26. It was reported that sometime parents share they have a hard time getting the records from the doctor’s office or can not get to the doctor’s office. We discussed options for ensuring documents are received on time such as allowing families a period shorter than 30 days to submit the records to you and send reminders to families. Additionally, using a reminder system to check the files of newly enrolled children at least weekly during the first 30 days to ensure all required documents are on file. Staff employed on 6/12/23, 6/12/23, 7/13/23, 8/2/23, 10/16/23, 10/26/23, and 4/25/25 had health questionnaires and emergency information on file dated April 2025. You shared that you have been focused on the expansion of the program and missed the April deadline. We discussed making a set date as the renewal date for all documents. You shared this option would be easier for you to track. Develop a tracking calendar for expiration dates and renewal deadlines. Staff employed on 3/20/26, 4/15/26, and 4/15/26 did not have signed acknowledgement of the Shaken Baby and Head Trauma Prevention Policy, Personnel policies, and operational policies. You shared you covered the policies in orientation and both you and the staff signed off on the orientation documentation log. We discussed having the acknowledgment statement with you during the training and signing the policies as the training/review is completed and immediately adding them to each personnel file. EPR- An Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR Plan) helps protect children and staff during emergencies by knowing what to do and where to go. The plan gives clear procedures to follow so they can respond quickly, safely, and calmly. The facility EPR Plan must be reviewed and revised at least annually and when changes occur. The EPR Plan on file was last reviewed on February 13, 2025. You shared you had been spending time focused on the expansion that the date was missed by mistake. Develop a tracking calendar for expiration dates and renewal deadlines. Sanitation- Maintaining proper sanitation practices protects children from illness and contamination. During today’s visit the refrigerator in space #5 read 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It was shared that where is a lot of opening and closing of the refrigerator door in the morning with parents bringing in bottles and preparing bottles for feedings. I noticed the freezer section of the refrigerator had frost buildup, and several bottles were warm to the touch. It was reported that families may be making bottles in the mornings prior to bringing their child to the facility. Placing warm bottles or food into the refrigerator raises the internal temperature, causing the appliance to work harder and potentially warm the surrounding items inside. Have parents prepare bottles the night before, labeling them for the date they are delivered to the program. In space #3, there were two meal plates stored on the changing table. The plates were disposed of, and new meals were brought in from the kitchen and placed on the eating table for the children. You spoke with the staff about keeping the changing table surface clear. We discussed using the cleaned and sanitized shelf top as a place to store plates as staff prepare for meal service or having kitchen staff to only bring in the number of plates needed at that moment as children in the space eat on their own schedule. Consultation: Pathways to the Stars- Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued January 7, 2024. You shared your wish to pursue the Classroom and Instructional Quality pathway. You shared you have purchased the Experience Early Learning curriculum and assessment tool. You are currently working with staff to complete education and update their WORKS accounts. We reviewed the Classroom and Instructional Quality pathway requirements, and you are working through your plan to implement all the components. You plan to submit your application for reassessment in November 2026. Additional comments: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. ABCMS- You have completed the ABCMS Provider Portal training. Log in and create a roster for your facility. An ABCMS Provider Portal Technical Assistance Guild was provided to you and is located on the ABCMS website. At the completion of the visit, I reviewed violations with you, however, due to connectivity issues, I was not able to print an electronic version of the visit summary. I provided the operator with a one-page visit summary and will follow up with an electronic visit summary sent to the facility email. Please respond that it has been received. Contact me at LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/7/2026 Number Present: 21 Completed Date: 5/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 369 Time In: 08:26 AM Time Out: 02:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued January 7, 2024, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for using a developmentally appropriate curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The sanitation inspection was completed February 25, 2026 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted October 13, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty two percent as of May 5, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on May 5, 2026, and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center, LLC was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor space were monitored. Five of children were observed engaging in indoor free play, transitions, and meals. Teachers were engaging with children through conversation, singing, and reading. Learning posters and children’s artwork hang on the classroom walls. Room arrangements have been changed since the last visit. Learning materials were stored on low lying shelves for easy access. Breakfast was observed and consisted of beagles with jelly, oatmeal, yogurt, mixed fruit, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 526 Menus for all meals and snacks were not current or posted where easily seen by parents and cook. The menu posted in the lobby and in the kitchen were dated 4/27/26-5/1/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The thermometer in the refrigerator in space #5 read 50 degrees F. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 618 Diaper changing surfaces were not kept free of storage. There were two meal plates located on the changing table in space #3. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One bottle of 50% Isopropyl Alcohol was stored on a shelf, above five feet in space #4. .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Written authorization was not on file for two Ventolin HFA inhalers located in space #2. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. One Ventolin HFA inhaler, located in space #2, expired January 2026. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Seven staff files reviewed had health questionnaires that expired in April 2026. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Seven staff files reviewed contained emergency information that expired in April 2026. .0701(a) 1233 Each employee's personnel file did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. Signed acknowledgment of personnel and operational policies was not on file for three staff. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(g) 1320 Children's records that include an application for enrollment, medical and immunization records, and permission to seek emergency medical care was not on file for each child. A child enrolled on 8/27/24 did not have a medical report on file. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had a medical report on file dated 4/9/26. GS110-91(1) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had an immunization report on file dated 4/9/26. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR Plan on file was last reviewed/revised on February 13, 2025. .0607(e) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. An asthma action plan was not on file for two Ventolin HFA inhalers located in space #2. .0801(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Three of ten staff files reviewed did not contain signed acknowledgement of review of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy. .0608(d)(1-4) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 21, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P. O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotterl@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Medication- Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. During today’s visit in space #2, two Ventolin HFA inhalers did not have an asthma action plan or written authorization on file and one Ventolin HFA inhaler expired in January 2025. You shared that one inhaler belonged to a child that is no longer enrolled in the program. When asked how often medications were monitored, a timeframe or schedule was not provided. Develop a medication monitoring system to check medications, labels, authorizations, and medical action plans together during regular audits. Train staff to immediately report missing, outdated, or incomplete forms to a member of management. Storage of Hazardous Items- All hazardous substances, including cleaning produces and chemicals must be stored securely in locked storage, preventing accidental ingestion, inhalation and skin exposure. Today there was one bottle of rubbing alcohol stored on shelf, above five feet, in space #4. It was reported that staff used the rubbing alcohol to clean permanent marker form the sleeping mats and was not returned to the locked storage closet. During the visit you removed the rubbing alcohol and talked to the classroom staff about storing things properly. Conduct full classroom inspections prior to caring for children. Records Management- Organized, current and accurate records help to protect children’s health and safety, reduce risks and demonstrate proper program oversight. During today’s visit a child enrolled on 8/27/25 did not have a medical assessment on file for review. A child enrolled on 1/5/26 had a medical assessment and immunization record on file dated 4/9/26. It was reported that sometime parents share they have a hard time getting the records from the doctor’s office or can not get to the doctor’s office. We discussed options for ensuring documents are received on time such as allowing families a period shorter than 30 days to submit the records to you and send reminders to families. Additionally, using a reminder system to check the files of newly enrolled children at least weekly during the first 30 days to ensure all required documents are on file. Staff employed on 6/12/23, 6/12/23, 7/13/23, 8/2/23, 10/16/23, 10/26/23, and 4/25/25 had health questionnaires and emergency information on file dated April 2025. You shared that you have been focused on the expansion of the program and missed the April deadline. We discussed making a set date as the renewal date for all documents. You shared this option would be easier for you to track. Develop a tracking calendar for expiration dates and renewal deadlines. Staff employed on 3/20/26, 4/15/26, and 4/15/26 did not have signed acknowledgement of the Shaken Baby and Head Trauma Prevention Policy, Personnel policies, and operational policies. You shared you covered the policies in orientation and both you and the staff signed off on the orientation documentation log. We discussed having the acknowledgment statement with you during the training and signing the policies as the training/review is completed and immediately adding them to each personnel file. EPR- An Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR Plan) helps protect children and staff during emergencies by knowing what to do and where to go. The plan gives clear procedures to follow so they can respond quickly, safely, and calmly. The facility EPR Plan must be reviewed and revised at least annually and when changes occur. The EPR Plan on file was last reviewed on February 13, 2025. You shared you had been spending time focused on the expansion that the date was missed by mistake. Develop a tracking calendar for expiration dates and renewal deadlines. Sanitation- Maintaining proper sanitation practices protects children from illness and contamination. During today’s visit the refrigerator in space #5 read 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It was shared that where is a lot of opening and closing of the refrigerator door in the morning with parents bringing in bottles and preparing bottles for feedings. I noticed the freezer section of the refrigerator had frost buildup, and several bottles were warm to the touch. It was reported that families may be making bottles in the mornings prior to bringing their child to the facility. Placing warm bottles or food into the refrigerator raises the internal temperature, causing the appliance to work harder and potentially warm the surrounding items inside. Have parents prepare bottles the night before, labeling them for the date they are delivered to the program. In space #3, there were two meal plates stored on the changing table. The plates were disposed of, and new meals were brought in from the kitchen and placed on the eating table for the children. You spoke with the staff about keeping the changing table surface clear. We discussed using the cleaned and sanitized shelf top as a place to store plates as staff prepare for meal service or having kitchen staff to only bring in the number of plates needed at that moment as children in the space eat on their own schedule. Consultation: Pathways to the Stars- Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued January 7, 2024. You shared your wish to pursue the Classroom and Instructional Quality pathway. You shared you have purchased the Experience Early Learning curriculum and assessment tool. You are currently working with staff to complete education and update their WORKS accounts. We reviewed the Classroom and Instructional Quality pathway requirements, and you are working through your plan to implement all the components. You plan to submit your application for reassessment in November 2026. Additional comments: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. ABCMS- You have completed the ABCMS Provider Portal training. Log in and create a roster for your facility. An ABCMS Provider Portal Technical Assistance Guild was provided to you and is located on the ABCMS website. At the completion of the visit, I reviewed violations with you, however, due to connectivity issues, I was not able to print an electronic version of the visit summary. I provided the operator with a one-page visit summary and will follow up with an electronic visit summary sent to the facility email. Please respond that it has been received. Contact me at LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0901 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/1/2025 Number Present: 20 Completed Date: 10/1/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 268 Time In: 09:17 AM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 1/7/24, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting all enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for the programmatic option for uses of an age/developmentally appropriate curriculum, Teaching Strategies. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was seventy-nine percent as of 9/30/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 9/30/25 and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center LLC was listed as current- active. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. Today I completed a walk-through of the facility, monitoring all indoor and outdoor spaces. Four groups of children were observed indoor and outdoor environments. Children enrolled in spaces #1 and #2 transitioned from free play in learning centers to breakfast. Children enrolled in space 3 moved about the outdoor space, playing on stationary climbing structures. Staff were observed talking with the children and assisting them with personal care needs. Children enrolled in space #5 were receiving care according to their individual needs. Safe sleep checks were completed and documented as required. Files for new staff were reviewed. Fire and sanitation inspections remain current. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. A current menu was not posted in the kitchen and the parent information board. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One bottle of Murphy's Multi-Use Wood Cleaner was stored on a shelf, above five feet, and one bottle of Family Guard Disinfectant Cleaner was stored in the cabinet below the sink in the bathroom of space #1. .2820(b) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Emergency Information was not on file for staff employed on 9/4/25. .0701(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Documentation of orientation was not on file for staff that was employed on 9/4/25. .1101(a)(b) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The mulch under the stationary structures of outdoor space #2 was compacted and did not meet the required depth of loose surfacing, measuring less than one inch in the fall zone. .0605(k)(1-4) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 10/15/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Storage of Hazardous Items- Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. You shared that the cleaning products observed in the bathroom space are ones not used by teaching staff but my cleaning staff that come in when the center is not in operation. Review the storage requirement for cleaning supplies with all staff, including those cleaning staff working outside of childcare operations to ensure they are all aware of the requirements and know the procedures to follow. Additionally, classroom staff to complete a walkthrough of their classroom prior to providing care to ensure all potential hazards are removed. Thank you for locking away the cleaning supplies during the visit. Outdoor Learning Environment- 60% of childhood injuries are caused by falls to the ground. Having protective surfacing under and around playground equipment can reduce the risk of serious injury. Today, the surfacing on outdoor space #2 was compacted, leaving less than one inch of loose surfacing in the fall zone of the stationary equipment. You stated that you had noticed it when you completed the most recent inspection on 9/24/25, and requested your maintenance staff to address it but it had not been completed by the time of the visit. You made contact with the maintenance staff during the visit and also requested the mulch to be tilled and additional surfacing to be ordered. Staff Orientation- Orientation for new staff is an opportunity for new staff to get to know their position, its requirements, and the policies and procedures of the child care facility. Today you shared that you completed orientation with the staff employed on 9/4/25 and the requirements for the first two weeks of employment was completed on 9/8/25 but was not documented on the Orientation Documentation Form. You were able to provide a document that shows the policies and procedures that were reviewed; however it was not dated. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding file organization. You are currently using an orientation folder that has your orientation materials. Sign and date all documents as that portion of orientation is completed. Additional information: QRIS: Pathways to the Stars- Today were reviewed Child Care Rule .3200, the QRIS Modernization page of the Division’s website, and talked through the options. Your program is due to complete the Rated License process by January 2027. We will have further conversation about your pathway of choice. You shared you have reached out the local QUEST Consultant for additional technical assistance. Independently review the documents on the QRIS Modernization page. Staff/Child Interactions- Today we discussed the word “No” and “Aht”. Instead of saying no, give the children clear alternatives to their current behavior. Remind the children of the expectations and classroom rules and discuss what they can do differently. Encourage children to set good examples for each other. Children also learn a great deal from each other. Encourage appropriate ways to share, play, and be kind to each other. Be mindful of your tone and show respect for children. Talk to children about misbehavior in private, rather than in front of others. Wait Time/Transitions- Technical assistance as provided concerning wait times. Activities during transitions and reduced wait times in preschools support children's social-emotional development by promoting self-regulation, patience, and emotional control, while also fostering cognitive growth through engagement in learning opportunities, enhancing their ability to manage routines, and improving overall classroom flow and focus by minimizing disruptions and stress. These activities may include singing songs, counting, recall from story or group times or a group discussion. This approach empowers children to adapt to changes and build essential life skills like independence and resilience. Licensing Fees- License fees are based on the first shift capacity as shown on the childcare license as of October 1st of each year for all active facilities. The NC Department of Health and Human Services Controller's Office will email license fee invoices during the month of October. Payments must be paid 30 days from the receipt of the invoice. Partial payments or pre-payment will not be accepted. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me, LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant at 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/1/2025 Number Present: 20 Completed Date: 10/1/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 268 Time In: 09:17 AM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 1/7/24, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting all enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for the programmatic option for uses of an age/developmentally appropriate curriculum, Teaching Strategies. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was seventy-nine percent as of 9/30/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 9/30/25 and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center LLC was listed as current- active. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. Today I completed a walk-through of the facility, monitoring all indoor and outdoor spaces. Four groups of children were observed indoor and outdoor environments. Children enrolled in spaces #1 and #2 transitioned from free play in learning centers to breakfast. Children enrolled in space 3 moved about the outdoor space, playing on stationary climbing structures. Staff were observed talking with the children and assisting them with personal care needs. Children enrolled in space #5 were receiving care according to their individual needs. Safe sleep checks were completed and documented as required. Files for new staff were reviewed. Fire and sanitation inspections remain current. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. A current menu was not posted in the kitchen and the parent information board. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One bottle of Murphy's Multi-Use Wood Cleaner was stored on a shelf, above five feet, and one bottle of Family Guard Disinfectant Cleaner was stored in the cabinet below the sink in the bathroom of space #1. .2820(b) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Emergency Information was not on file for staff employed on 9/4/25. .0701(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Documentation of orientation was not on file for staff that was employed on 9/4/25. .1101(a)(b) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The mulch under the stationary structures of outdoor space #2 was compacted and did not meet the required depth of loose surfacing, measuring less than one inch in the fall zone. .0605(k)(1-4) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 10/15/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Storage of Hazardous Items- Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. You shared that the cleaning products observed in the bathroom space are ones not used by teaching staff but my cleaning staff that come in when the center is not in operation. Review the storage requirement for cleaning supplies with all staff, including those cleaning staff working outside of childcare operations to ensure they are all aware of the requirements and know the procedures to follow. Additionally, classroom staff to complete a walkthrough of their classroom prior to providing care to ensure all potential hazards are removed. Thank you for locking away the cleaning supplies during the visit. Outdoor Learning Environment- 60% of childhood injuries are caused by falls to the ground. Having protective surfacing under and around playground equipment can reduce the risk of serious injury. Today, the surfacing on outdoor space #2 was compacted, leaving less than one inch of loose surfacing in the fall zone of the stationary equipment. You stated that you had noticed it when you completed the most recent inspection on 9/24/25, and requested your maintenance staff to address it but it had not been completed by the time of the visit. You made contact with the maintenance staff during the visit and also requested the mulch to be tilled and additional surfacing to be ordered. Staff Orientation- Orientation for new staff is an opportunity for new staff to get to know their position, its requirements, and the policies and procedures of the child care facility. Today you shared that you completed orientation with the staff employed on 9/4/25 and the requirements for the first two weeks of employment was completed on 9/8/25 but was not documented on the Orientation Documentation Form. You were able to provide a document that shows the policies and procedures that were reviewed; however it was not dated. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding file organization. You are currently using an orientation folder that has your orientation materials. Sign and date all documents as that portion of orientation is completed. Additional information: QRIS: Pathways to the Stars- Today were reviewed Child Care Rule .3200, the QRIS Modernization page of the Division’s website, and talked through the options. Your program is due to complete the Rated License process by January 2027. We will have further conversation about your pathway of choice. You shared you have reached out the local QUEST Consultant for additional technical assistance. Independently review the documents on the QRIS Modernization page. Staff/Child Interactions- Today we discussed the word “No” and “Aht”. Instead of saying no, give the children clear alternatives to their current behavior. Remind the children of the expectations and classroom rules and discuss what they can do differently. Encourage children to set good examples for each other. Children also learn a great deal from each other. Encourage appropriate ways to share, play, and be kind to each other. Be mindful of your tone and show respect for children. Talk to children about misbehavior in private, rather than in front of others. Wait Time/Transitions- Technical assistance as provided concerning wait times. Activities during transitions and reduced wait times in preschools support children's social-emotional development by promoting self-regulation, patience, and emotional control, while also fostering cognitive growth through engagement in learning opportunities, enhancing their ability to manage routines, and improving overall classroom flow and focus by minimizing disruptions and stress. These activities may include singing songs, counting, recall from story or group times or a group discussion. This approach empowers children to adapt to changes and build essential life skills like independence and resilience. Licensing Fees- License fees are based on the first shift capacity as shown on the childcare license as of October 1st of each year for all active facilities. The NC Department of Health and Human Services Controller's Office will email license fee invoices during the month of October. Payments must be paid 30 days from the receipt of the invoice. Partial payments or pre-payment will not be accepted. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me, LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant at 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/21/2025 Number Present: 23 Completed Date: 5/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 365 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 02:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 1/7/24, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for using a developmentally appropriate curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The sanitation inspection was completed 2/28/25 with a “Approved” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 12/5/24 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty three percent as of 5/19/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 5/19/25 and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center, LLC was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor space were monitored. Four groups of children were observed engaging in indoor free play, transitions, and meals. Proper hand washing techniques were observed. Learning posters and children’s artwork hang on the classroom walls. Learning materials were stored on low lying shelves for easy access. Additional learning materials were stored in the closet. Breakfast was observed and consisted of pancakes, eggs, peaches, oranges, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. One staff stood in the doorway between spaces #1 and #2, observing two group of children. Nine children, two to five years of age were present in space #1. Eight children, two years of age were present in space #2. .1801(a)(1-5) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. A medication authorization form was not on file for one tube of Parent Choice Diaper Rash Ointment, located in space #3. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. Documentation of safe sleep checks were not available for the week of May 12, 2025-May 16, 2025, and May 19th-May 21, 2025. .0606(g) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Recertification for staff employed on 9/3/24, did not include infant and child CPR training. .1102(d) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff employed on 6/12/23, 6/12/23, 7/13/23, 8/2/23, 10/20/23, 10/16/23, 10/26/23, and 12/8/23 did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. .1102(a) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 4, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P. O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotterl@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Supervision- Supervising children is a critical component of ensuring the safety and well-being of all children. Staff must be actively engaged at all times for this to occur. It was reported that the staff left space #2 to use the restroom, and requested the staff in space #1 to monitor the children in her absence. You reported that you have staff come in on a staggard schedule and today there was a change from the typical schedule due to an appointment. We discussed your current staffing schedule, and you shared you have additional staff lined up but are currently waiting to get all the required documents before bringing them in. Review childcare rule 10A NCAC 09 .1801 with your staff. Review your facility’s supervision policies and procedures. CPR- For the health and safety of the children, all staff members are required to obtain CPR and First Aid certification and keep it current. Renewing this certification is crucial for staff to be refreshed in first aid and other lifesaving techniques as well as receive the most up to date information. Staff employed on 9/3/24 completed Adult CPR training. You stated that this was done by mistake and there is an upcoming training that you can enroll the staff member in. We discussed reviewing the training outline before signing up, to ensure it meets the requirement of infant and child CPR. Medication Authorization- All medications must be accompanied by written authorizations from parents with complete instructions for administration. One tube of Parent Choice Diaper Rash Ointment, located in space #3, did not have an authorization form to accompany it. It was reported that the form was turned in at the time the medication was dropped off, but the form was not located during the visit. Technical assistance was provided concerning placing a copy of the authorization form in the child’s file and in the classroom upon receipt. Review your current practices concerning receiving medications and authorization forms. Review them promptly to ensure they are completed properly and file immediately to prevent them from being lost or misplaced. Safe Sleep Checks- There are about 3,500 sleep-related deaths among US babies each year. Child care providers can maintain safer sleep environments for babies that help prevent SIDS. Caregivers must visually check sleeping infants at least every fifteen (15) minutes. Each check needs to be recorded and those records maintained for at least 30 days after the recording month. Safe sleep check for three of the four children enrolled in space #5 were incomplete. Attendance records show the children were present on dates not documented on the safe sleep charts. It was reported that there are multiple staff that work in that space and all staff are required to document safe sleep checks as they occur. Review the safe sleep policy with the staff and how to properly document the safe sleep checks. Health and Safety- Eight staff members did not complete the required health and safety trainings within 12 months of hire. You reported that upon review of staff files, you noticed the trainings were not complete and staff began to work on the trainings. Today, we discussed the training certificates that still need to be printed and filed. You printed the Health and Safety Training Record sheet to complete for each staff member, to help track the remaining missing training certificates, and to be able to document future trainings. We discussed reviewing files more often and tracking trainings on a monthly basis. Children’s Records- Children's Records- Children are required to have a medical exam by a doctor and a copy of their immunization record no later than 30 days from their first day of attendance. A medical exam can be accepted if completed within the last 12 months prior to enrollment. Immunizations were dated beyond 30 days of enrollment for three of the five files reviewed. Medical reports for three of the five children enrolled, were dated beyond thirty days of enrollment. You stated that your current practice is to have the medical report and immunizations on file by the child’s first day of care. Review files regularly and set reminders of approaching deadlines to ensure all required documents are on file as required. Additional comments: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. NCID- Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. As part of ongoing efforts to protect state systems and data, the N.C. Department of Information Technology will be changing the minimum length of NCID passwords from eight to 14 characters. When you change your current password after Feb. 23, however, you will be required to create a new one that must: • Be a minimum of 14 characters. • Consist of at least one numeric character, at least one uppercase letter, at least one lowercase letter, and at least one special character such as #, &, * etc. • Passwords shall not contain number or character substitutes to create dictionary words (e.g., d33psl33p for deepsleep). Ongoing Training- Today we discussed places to complete approved on-going training. Staff may complete training at the local Martin-Pitt Partnership for Children, DCDEE Moodle, Southwester Child Development Commission (https://www.swcdcinc.org/), and ProSolutions Training (https://www.prosolutionstraining.com/). ABCMS- You have completed the ABCMS Provider Portal training. Continue to work to get all your staff linked to your facility roster. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .1801 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/21/2025 Number Present: 23 Completed Date: 5/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 365 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 02:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 1/7/24, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for using a developmentally appropriate curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The sanitation inspection was completed 2/28/25 with a “Approved” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 12/5/24 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty three percent as of 5/19/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 5/19/25 and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center, LLC was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor space were monitored. Four groups of children were observed engaging in indoor free play, transitions, and meals. Proper hand washing techniques were observed. Learning posters and children’s artwork hang on the classroom walls. Learning materials were stored on low lying shelves for easy access. Additional learning materials were stored in the closet. Breakfast was observed and consisted of pancakes, eggs, peaches, oranges, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. One staff stood in the doorway between spaces #1 and #2, observing two group of children. Nine children, two to five years of age were present in space #1. Eight children, two years of age were present in space #2. .1801(a)(1-5) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. A medication authorization form was not on file for one tube of Parent Choice Diaper Rash Ointment, located in space #3. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. Documentation of safe sleep checks were not available for the week of May 12, 2025-May 16, 2025, and May 19th-May 21, 2025. .0606(g) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Recertification for staff employed on 9/3/24, did not include infant and child CPR training. .1102(d) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff employed on 6/12/23, 6/12/23, 7/13/23, 8/2/23, 10/20/23, 10/16/23, 10/26/23, and 12/8/23 did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. .1102(a) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 4, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P. O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotterl@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Supervision- Supervising children is a critical component of ensuring the safety and well-being of all children. Staff must be actively engaged at all times for this to occur. It was reported that the staff left space #2 to use the restroom, and requested the staff in space #1 to monitor the children in her absence. You reported that you have staff come in on a staggard schedule and today there was a change from the typical schedule due to an appointment. We discussed your current staffing schedule, and you shared you have additional staff lined up but are currently waiting to get all the required documents before bringing them in. Review childcare rule 10A NCAC 09 .1801 with your staff. Review your facility’s supervision policies and procedures. CPR- For the health and safety of the children, all staff members are required to obtain CPR and First Aid certification and keep it current. Renewing this certification is crucial for staff to be refreshed in first aid and other lifesaving techniques as well as receive the most up to date information. Staff employed on 9/3/24 completed Adult CPR training. You stated that this was done by mistake and there is an upcoming training that you can enroll the staff member in. We discussed reviewing the training outline before signing up, to ensure it meets the requirement of infant and child CPR. Medication Authorization- All medications must be accompanied by written authorizations from parents with complete instructions for administration. One tube of Parent Choice Diaper Rash Ointment, located in space #3, did not have an authorization form to accompany it. It was reported that the form was turned in at the time the medication was dropped off, but the form was not located during the visit. Technical assistance was provided concerning placing a copy of the authorization form in the child’s file and in the classroom upon receipt. Review your current practices concerning receiving medications and authorization forms. Review them promptly to ensure they are completed properly and file immediately to prevent them from being lost or misplaced. Safe Sleep Checks- There are about 3,500 sleep-related deaths among US babies each year. Child care providers can maintain safer sleep environments for babies that help prevent SIDS. Caregivers must visually check sleeping infants at least every fifteen (15) minutes. Each check needs to be recorded and those records maintained for at least 30 days after the recording month. Safe sleep check for three of the four children enrolled in space #5 were incomplete. Attendance records show the children were present on dates not documented on the safe sleep charts. It was reported that there are multiple staff that work in that space and all staff are required to document safe sleep checks as they occur. Review the safe sleep policy with the staff and how to properly document the safe sleep checks. Health and Safety- Eight staff members did not complete the required health and safety trainings within 12 months of hire. You reported that upon review of staff files, you noticed the trainings were not complete and staff began to work on the trainings. Today, we discussed the training certificates that still need to be printed and filed. You printed the Health and Safety Training Record sheet to complete for each staff member, to help track the remaining missing training certificates, and to be able to document future trainings. We discussed reviewing files more often and tracking trainings on a monthly basis. Children’s Records- Children's Records- Children are required to have a medical exam by a doctor and a copy of their immunization record no later than 30 days from their first day of attendance. A medical exam can be accepted if completed within the last 12 months prior to enrollment. Immunizations were dated beyond 30 days of enrollment for three of the five files reviewed. Medical reports for three of the five children enrolled, were dated beyond thirty days of enrollment. You stated that your current practice is to have the medical report and immunizations on file by the child’s first day of care. Review files regularly and set reminders of approaching deadlines to ensure all required documents are on file as required. Additional comments: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. NCID- Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. As part of ongoing efforts to protect state systems and data, the N.C. Department of Information Technology will be changing the minimum length of NCID passwords from eight to 14 characters. When you change your current password after Feb. 23, however, you will be required to create a new one that must: • Be a minimum of 14 characters. • Consist of at least one numeric character, at least one uppercase letter, at least one lowercase letter, and at least one special character such as #, &, * etc. • Passwords shall not contain number or character substitutes to create dictionary words (e.g., d33psl33p for deepsleep). Ongoing Training- Today we discussed places to complete approved on-going training. Staff may complete training at the local Martin-Pitt Partnership for Children, DCDEE Moodle, Southwester Child Development Commission (https://www.swcdcinc.org/), and ProSolutions Training (https://www.prosolutionstraining.com/). ABCMS- You have completed the ABCMS Provider Portal training. Continue to work to get all your staff linked to your facility roster. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/21/2025 Number Present: 23 Completed Date: 5/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 365 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 02:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 1/7/24, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for using a developmentally appropriate curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The sanitation inspection was completed 2/28/25 with a “Approved” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 12/5/24 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty three percent as of 5/19/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 5/19/25 and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center, LLC was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor space were monitored. Four groups of children were observed engaging in indoor free play, transitions, and meals. Proper hand washing techniques were observed. Learning posters and children’s artwork hang on the classroom walls. Learning materials were stored on low lying shelves for easy access. Additional learning materials were stored in the closet. Breakfast was observed and consisted of pancakes, eggs, peaches, oranges, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. One staff stood in the doorway between spaces #1 and #2, observing two group of children. Nine children, two to five years of age were present in space #1. Eight children, two years of age were present in space #2. .1801(a)(1-5) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. A medication authorization form was not on file for one tube of Parent Choice Diaper Rash Ointment, located in space #3. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. Documentation of safe sleep checks were not available for the week of May 12, 2025-May 16, 2025, and May 19th-May 21, 2025. .0606(g) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Recertification for staff employed on 9/3/24, did not include infant and child CPR training. .1102(d) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. Staff employed on 6/12/23, 6/12/23, 7/13/23, 8/2/23, 10/20/23, 10/16/23, 10/26/23, and 12/8/23 did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. .1102(a) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 4, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P. O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotterl@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Supervision- Supervising children is a critical component of ensuring the safety and well-being of all children. Staff must be actively engaged at all times for this to occur. It was reported that the staff left space #2 to use the restroom, and requested the staff in space #1 to monitor the children in her absence. You reported that you have staff come in on a staggard schedule and today there was a change from the typical schedule due to an appointment. We discussed your current staffing schedule, and you shared you have additional staff lined up but are currently waiting to get all the required documents before bringing them in. Review childcare rule 10A NCAC 09 .1801 with your staff. Review your facility’s supervision policies and procedures. CPR- For the health and safety of the children, all staff members are required to obtain CPR and First Aid certification and keep it current. Renewing this certification is crucial for staff to be refreshed in first aid and other lifesaving techniques as well as receive the most up to date information. Staff employed on 9/3/24 completed Adult CPR training. You stated that this was done by mistake and there is an upcoming training that you can enroll the staff member in. We discussed reviewing the training outline before signing up, to ensure it meets the requirement of infant and child CPR. Medication Authorization- All medications must be accompanied by written authorizations from parents with complete instructions for administration. One tube of Parent Choice Diaper Rash Ointment, located in space #3, did not have an authorization form to accompany it. It was reported that the form was turned in at the time the medication was dropped off, but the form was not located during the visit. Technical assistance was provided concerning placing a copy of the authorization form in the child’s file and in the classroom upon receipt. Review your current practices concerning receiving medications and authorization forms. Review them promptly to ensure they are completed properly and file immediately to prevent them from being lost or misplaced. Safe Sleep Checks- There are about 3,500 sleep-related deaths among US babies each year. Child care providers can maintain safer sleep environments for babies that help prevent SIDS. Caregivers must visually check sleeping infants at least every fifteen (15) minutes. Each check needs to be recorded and those records maintained for at least 30 days after the recording month. Safe sleep check for three of the four children enrolled in space #5 were incomplete. Attendance records show the children were present on dates not documented on the safe sleep charts. It was reported that there are multiple staff that work in that space and all staff are required to document safe sleep checks as they occur. Review the safe sleep policy with the staff and how to properly document the safe sleep checks. Health and Safety- Eight staff members did not complete the required health and safety trainings within 12 months of hire. You reported that upon review of staff files, you noticed the trainings were not complete and staff began to work on the trainings. Today, we discussed the training certificates that still need to be printed and filed. You printed the Health and Safety Training Record sheet to complete for each staff member, to help track the remaining missing training certificates, and to be able to document future trainings. We discussed reviewing files more often and tracking trainings on a monthly basis. Children’s Records- Children's Records- Children are required to have a medical exam by a doctor and a copy of their immunization record no later than 30 days from their first day of attendance. A medical exam can be accepted if completed within the last 12 months prior to enrollment. Immunizations were dated beyond 30 days of enrollment for three of the five files reviewed. Medical reports for three of the five children enrolled, were dated beyond thirty days of enrollment. You stated that your current practice is to have the medical report and immunizations on file by the child’s first day of care. Review files regularly and set reminders of approaching deadlines to ensure all required documents are on file as required. Additional comments: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. NCID- Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. As part of ongoing efforts to protect state systems and data, the N.C. Department of Information Technology will be changing the minimum length of NCID passwords from eight to 14 characters. When you change your current password after Feb. 23, however, you will be required to create a new one that must: • Be a minimum of 14 characters. • Consist of at least one numeric character, at least one uppercase letter, at least one lowercase letter, and at least one special character such as #, &, * etc. • Passwords shall not contain number or character substitutes to create dictionary words (e.g., d33psl33p for deepsleep). Ongoing Training- Today we discussed places to complete approved on-going training. Staff may complete training at the local Martin-Pitt Partnership for Children, DCDEE Moodle, Southwester Child Development Commission (https://www.swcdcinc.org/), and ProSolutions Training (https://www.prosolutionstraining.com/). ABCMS- You have completed the ABCMS Provider Portal training. Continue to work to get all your staff linked to your facility roster. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .0302 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/13/2025 Number Present: 24 Completed Date: 2/13/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 260 Time In: 10:25 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 12/8/23, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced ratios) and 1 quality point for the programmatic option for uses of an age/developmentally appropriate curriculum, Teaching Strategies. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eight-six percent as of 2/11/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 2/11/25 and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center LLC was listed as current- active. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. Four groups of children were observed indoor. Children throughout the facility were engaged in indoor free play, including sensory boxes, books, dramatic play materials, and toy animals. Children enrolled in space #5 were receiving care according to their individual needs. Safe sleep checks were completed and documented as required. Staff were observed moving about the spaces assisting children, reassuring them, and speaking to children in calm, gentle tones. Files for new staff were reviewed. Fire and sanitation inspections remain current. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. There were five children signed in on paper and five children signed in on the Brightwheel App, however, there were twenty-five (25) children present at the facility. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. There was a lapse in supervision when the staff in spaces #1 stood in the doorway of spaces #1 and #2 while the staff assigned to space #2 opened the lobby door. There was a lapse of supervision when the staff assigned to space #2 stood in the doorway of spaces #1 and #2, while the staff assigned to space #1 left the classroom. .1801(a)(1-5) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One canister of Wet Ones wipes was on the sink of the hall bathroom used by school aged children. There was one spray bottle of Lysol Multi-Purpose cleaner under the bathroom sink and one spray bottle of Clorox Sentiva Multi-Surface Cleaner on the bathroom sink in space #3. .2820(b) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last documented lockdown drill on 7/16/24. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Acknowledgement of the review of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not on file for staff employed on 9/3/24. .0608(d)(1-4) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Documentation of the completion of Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training for staff employed on 9/3/24 was not on file for review. .1102(g) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 2/27/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Supervision- Adequate supervision requires staff members never leave children unattended, not even for a minute, unless in the case of a true emergency. Staff members must be positioned to see and hear children, render immediate assistance, and provide for their needs, especially infants and toddlers who depend solely on caregivers. Today, a staff member stood in the doorway of spaces #1 and #2 as another staff member left the room. A staff member can not actively and efficiently supervise two groups of children located in two different spaces. Technical assistance was provided about how to let guest into the facility and how staff should call for assistance while they are the only staff in that space. You shared that you typically have additional staff on site but there were some staff out on the date of the visit. Storage of Hazardous Items- Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. You shared that you keep the bathroom locked and the cleaning staff must have left the door unlocked. Thank you for locking away the cleaning supplies and removing the Wet Wipe during the visit. Providing signs to lock things away can be a visual reminder to staff of how to properly store items. You may download the hazardous item storage flyer from the Division’s website. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment – Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment available at no charge on the Prevent Child Abuse NC website www.preventchildabusenc.org is a self-guided online training that teaches citizens and professionals the signs and symptoms to look out for with child abuse and neglect, what to do when they suspect it is happening, NC’s reporting law, and what happens after a report is made. It is required to be completed by new staff within three months of hire. Staff employed on 9/3/24 did not have documentation of completion of training on file. You stated you had requested the staff to complete the training, but she hadn’t given you the certificate to file. Have the staff to complete the training and submit the training certificate with your compliance letter. Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy- All staff and parents of children under the age of 5 years old must sign a statement acknowledging that the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy has been reviewed with them, and the statements must be kept on file. Today a signed acknowledgement for staff employed on 9/3/24 was not on file. You stated you reviewed the policy with the staff during orientation, but the document was not located during the visit. Please let me know in your compliance letter when you have reviewed the policy with the staff and obtained signed acknowledgments from them. Emergency Drills- Emergencies occur without warning. Drills are conducted to ensure everyone knows what to do and where to go in the event of an emergency. You must conduct either a shelter-in-place or a lockdown drill every three months as well as a monthly fire drill. The last documented emergency drill was a lockdown on 7/16/24. You stated you had completed on additional drill but it was not documented on the log. You also shared you plan to do a drill within the next few days. All drills must be recorded. Additional information: Activity Plans- Today there were activity plans displayed that were dated 2/3-7/25 posted on the walls of spaces #1 and #2 and no activity plans displayed in space #4. In spaces #1 and #2 a copy of activity plans for 2/10-14/25 was located behind the previous activity plan. You shared the staff complete the activity plans at least one week in advance. We discussed how staff are planning activities for the children, posting current activity plans, implementation of the activities planned. Training Opportunities- Technical assistance was provided about training opportunities for classroom staff. Reach out the local partnership to share the topics you wish to have training on. You may also visit ProSolutions, and the Southwestern Child Development Commission. The Raise NC Newsletters also provide information about training opportunities. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ NC Newsletters- Stay informed by subscribing to the weekly Raise NC Newsletters. The newsletters include updates on policies, programs and resources. It also highlights stories of local families, providers, and community leaders and showcases the impact of early care and learning across the state of North Carolina. Subscribe today by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Natural Learning Initiative has created resources, often in collaboration with the Natural Learning Initiative’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience and growth of all children. You can explore and use these resources on their website https://naturalearning.org/resources. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/13/2025 Number Present: 24 Completed Date: 2/13/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 260 Time In: 10:25 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 12/8/23, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced ratios) and 1 quality point for the programmatic option for uses of an age/developmentally appropriate curriculum, Teaching Strategies. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eight-six percent as of 2/11/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 2/11/25 and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center LLC was listed as current- active. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. Four groups of children were observed indoor. Children throughout the facility were engaged in indoor free play, including sensory boxes, books, dramatic play materials, and toy animals. Children enrolled in space #5 were receiving care according to their individual needs. Safe sleep checks were completed and documented as required. Staff were observed moving about the spaces assisting children, reassuring them, and speaking to children in calm, gentle tones. Files for new staff were reviewed. Fire and sanitation inspections remain current. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. There were five children signed in on paper and five children signed in on the Brightwheel App, however, there were twenty-five (25) children present at the facility. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. There was a lapse in supervision when the staff in spaces #1 stood in the doorway of spaces #1 and #2 while the staff assigned to space #2 opened the lobby door. There was a lapse of supervision when the staff assigned to space #2 stood in the doorway of spaces #1 and #2, while the staff assigned to space #1 left the classroom. .1801(a)(1-5) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One canister of Wet Ones wipes was on the sink of the hall bathroom used by school aged children. There was one spray bottle of Lysol Multi-Purpose cleaner under the bathroom sink and one spray bottle of Clorox Sentiva Multi-Surface Cleaner on the bathroom sink in space #3. .2820(b) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last documented lockdown drill on 7/16/24. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Acknowledgement of the review of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not on file for staff employed on 9/3/24. .0608(d)(1-4) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Documentation of the completion of Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training for staff employed on 9/3/24 was not on file for review. .1102(g) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 2/27/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Supervision- Adequate supervision requires staff members never leave children unattended, not even for a minute, unless in the case of a true emergency. Staff members must be positioned to see and hear children, render immediate assistance, and provide for their needs, especially infants and toddlers who depend solely on caregivers. Today, a staff member stood in the doorway of spaces #1 and #2 as another staff member left the room. A staff member can not actively and efficiently supervise two groups of children located in two different spaces. Technical assistance was provided about how to let guest into the facility and how staff should call for assistance while they are the only staff in that space. You shared that you typically have additional staff on site but there were some staff out on the date of the visit. Storage of Hazardous Items- Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. You shared that you keep the bathroom locked and the cleaning staff must have left the door unlocked. Thank you for locking away the cleaning supplies and removing the Wet Wipe during the visit. Providing signs to lock things away can be a visual reminder to staff of how to properly store items. You may download the hazardous item storage flyer from the Division’s website. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment – Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment available at no charge on the Prevent Child Abuse NC website www.preventchildabusenc.org is a self-guided online training that teaches citizens and professionals the signs and symptoms to look out for with child abuse and neglect, what to do when they suspect it is happening, NC’s reporting law, and what happens after a report is made. It is required to be completed by new staff within three months of hire. Staff employed on 9/3/24 did not have documentation of completion of training on file. You stated you had requested the staff to complete the training, but she hadn’t given you the certificate to file. Have the staff to complete the training and submit the training certificate with your compliance letter. Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy- All staff and parents of children under the age of 5 years old must sign a statement acknowledging that the Prevention of Shaken Baby and Abusive Head Trauma policy has been reviewed with them, and the statements must be kept on file. Today a signed acknowledgement for staff employed on 9/3/24 was not on file. You stated you reviewed the policy with the staff during orientation, but the document was not located during the visit. Please let me know in your compliance letter when you have reviewed the policy with the staff and obtained signed acknowledgments from them. Emergency Drills- Emergencies occur without warning. Drills are conducted to ensure everyone knows what to do and where to go in the event of an emergency. You must conduct either a shelter-in-place or a lockdown drill every three months as well as a monthly fire drill. The last documented emergency drill was a lockdown on 7/16/24. You stated you had completed on additional drill but it was not documented on the log. You also shared you plan to do a drill within the next few days. All drills must be recorded. Additional information: Activity Plans- Today there were activity plans displayed that were dated 2/3-7/25 posted on the walls of spaces #1 and #2 and no activity plans displayed in space #4. In spaces #1 and #2 a copy of activity plans for 2/10-14/25 was located behind the previous activity plan. You shared the staff complete the activity plans at least one week in advance. We discussed how staff are planning activities for the children, posting current activity plans, implementation of the activities planned. Training Opportunities- Technical assistance was provided about training opportunities for classroom staff. Reach out the local partnership to share the topics you wish to have training on. You may also visit ProSolutions, and the Southwestern Child Development Commission. The Raise NC Newsletters also provide information about training opportunities. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ NC Newsletters- Stay informed by subscribing to the weekly Raise NC Newsletters. The newsletters include updates on policies, programs and resources. It also highlights stories of local families, providers, and community leaders and showcases the impact of early care and learning across the state of North Carolina. Subscribe today by visiting https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Natural Learning Initiative has created resources, often in collaboration with the Natural Learning Initiative’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience and growth of all children. You can explore and use these resources on their website https://naturalearning.org/resources. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/10/2024 Number Present: 27 Completed Date: 6/10/2024 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 324 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 02:14 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 1/7/24, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for using a developmentally appropriate curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The sanitation inspection was completed 3/8/24 with a “Approved” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 9/14/23 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety percent as of 6/7/24. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 6/7/24 and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center, LLc was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor space were monitored. Five groups of children were observed engaging in indoor free play, transitions, and meals. Classrooms were arranged in learning centers including reading, manipulatives, dramatic play and blocks. Children’s art work and learning posters hang on the classroom walls. Children enrolled in space #5 received care according to individual needs including diapering and bottle feeding. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken tenders, French fries, peas, mixed fruit, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. Activity plans in spaces #1 and #2 were dated June 3-7, 2024. Activity plan in space #3 was dated May 13-17, 2024. No activity plan was posted in space #4. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 542 The written feeding plan was not modified as the child's needs changed. Feeding plans for one of three children enrolled in space #5 was last updated to reflect the child eating table food. 10 NCAC 09 .0902(a) 606 Running water, soap and individual sanitary towels, or other approved hand-drying devices were not supplied at each lavatory. Paper towels were not supplied in the staff and school age bathrooms. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(b) & (d) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The laminate edging of the cubby in space #4, is detached and protruding from the shelf causing a shape edge to be exposed. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The wooden fence on outdoor space #1 had one missing slat and two slats that have become detached at the top. There were vines with thorns growing along the chain linked fence of outdoor space #2. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One bottle of Clorox Scentevia Disinfectant spray and one bottle of Family Guard Disinfectant cleaner was located on top a cabinet in an unlocked staff bathroom outside of space #2. One Airwick automatic air freshener spray was stored on the sign-in counter of the lobby. .2820(b) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In outdoor space #2 there were two broken sifting toys, one torn hammock, a bike with a missing wheel, and a tricycle with a broken seat. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space #5 there were two white trash bags and 3 grocery bags stored in a cabinet under the diaper changing table with a latching lock. .0604(q) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Documentation of a playground inspection was only available for August 2023 and May 2024. .0605(q) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Documentation of orientation was not available for review for staff, S. Staton. .1101(a)(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Signed acknowledgement of review of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was dated after providing care for staff Y. Moore, D. Shackelford, J. Cox, and T. Garrett. .0608(d)(1-4) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Staff, T. Garrett, D. Shackleford, and J. Cox completed Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training beyond 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. A staff's purse was located on the floor of space #2. This is a violation of sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(g) Storage. 9996 A violation was found for which there is no item number. There was toilet paper was in space #1 and the staff bathroom. This is a violation of sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2817(a). Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 24, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P. O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotterl@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Storage of Hazardous Substances-Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. Add a lock with a key to the staff bathroom door or a locking storage cabinet in the bathroom to store chemicals. Outdoor Inspections- The outdoor learning environment allows children to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. Since children are exploring it is very important to provide a safe environment. Today I observed broke toys, broke fence slats and hazardous vines along the fence line. You stated the staff check as they go on the playground. Have a member of your staff examine the indoor and outdoor premises prior to providing care to children to immediately address any hazards that may be present. If materials are broke or damaged, staff should removed them and report the incident to center administrators for further assistance. Monthly inspections must be recorded and maintained for review. You reported you were had waited to complete the inspections until completing the Playground safety training. You shared that inspections were done but not recorded. Set reminders on a calendar to ensure inspections are documented monthly. Staff Records-Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important because it demonstrates compliance with the child care rules and ensures the health and safety of each child. Effective employee orientation makes employees aware of company policies and expectations, handles essential paperwork, and answers any questions or concerns they may have before they transition into their new positions. Documentation of orientation was not available for one staff. You reported the staff is still in orientation and it was not recorded on the orientation log. The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma Policy must be reviewed with staff prior to providing care to children. Documentation of the review was dated after providing care for four staff. Today, we discussed your orientation process. Create an outline for staff orientation and use the Documentation of Staff Orientation form and Staff File Checklist to assist you with deadlines. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/10/2024 Number Present: 27 Completed Date: 6/10/2024 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 324 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 02:14 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 1/7/24, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for using a developmentally appropriate curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The sanitation inspection was completed 3/8/24 with a “Approved” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 9/14/23 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety percent as of 6/7/24. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 6/7/24 and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center, LLc was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor space were monitored. Five groups of children were observed engaging in indoor free play, transitions, and meals. Classrooms were arranged in learning centers including reading, manipulatives, dramatic play and blocks. Children’s art work and learning posters hang on the classroom walls. Children enrolled in space #5 received care according to individual needs including diapering and bottle feeding. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken tenders, French fries, peas, mixed fruit, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. Activity plans in spaces #1 and #2 were dated June 3-7, 2024. Activity plan in space #3 was dated May 13-17, 2024. No activity plan was posted in space #4. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 542 The written feeding plan was not modified as the child's needs changed. Feeding plans for one of three children enrolled in space #5 was last updated to reflect the child eating table food. 10 NCAC 09 .0902(a) 606 Running water, soap and individual sanitary towels, or other approved hand-drying devices were not supplied at each lavatory. Paper towels were not supplied in the staff and school age bathrooms. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(b) & (d) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The laminate edging of the cubby in space #4, is detached and protruding from the shelf causing a shape edge to be exposed. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The wooden fence on outdoor space #1 had one missing slat and two slats that have become detached at the top. There were vines with thorns growing along the chain linked fence of outdoor space #2. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One bottle of Clorox Scentevia Disinfectant spray and one bottle of Family Guard Disinfectant cleaner was located on top a cabinet in an unlocked staff bathroom outside of space #2. One Airwick automatic air freshener spray was stored on the sign-in counter of the lobby. .2820(b) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In outdoor space #2 there were two broken sifting toys, one torn hammock, a bike with a missing wheel, and a tricycle with a broken seat. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space #5 there were two white trash bags and 3 grocery bags stored in a cabinet under the diaper changing table with a latching lock. .0604(q) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Documentation of a playground inspection was only available for August 2023 and May 2024. .0605(q) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Documentation of orientation was not available for review for staff, S. Staton. .1101(a)(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Signed acknowledgement of review of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was dated after providing care for staff Y. Moore, D. Shackelford, J. Cox, and T. Garrett. .0608(d)(1-4) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Staff, T. Garrett, D. Shackleford, and J. Cox completed Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training beyond 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. A staff's purse was located on the floor of space #2. This is a violation of sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(g) Storage. 9996 A violation was found for which there is no item number. There was toilet paper was in space #1 and the staff bathroom. This is a violation of sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2817(a). Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 24, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P. O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotterl@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Storage of Hazardous Substances-Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. Add a lock with a key to the staff bathroom door or a locking storage cabinet in the bathroom to store chemicals. Outdoor Inspections- The outdoor learning environment allows children to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. Since children are exploring it is very important to provide a safe environment. Today I observed broke toys, broke fence slats and hazardous vines along the fence line. You stated the staff check as they go on the playground. Have a member of your staff examine the indoor and outdoor premises prior to providing care to children to immediately address any hazards that may be present. If materials are broke or damaged, staff should removed them and report the incident to center administrators for further assistance. Monthly inspections must be recorded and maintained for review. You reported you were had waited to complete the inspections until completing the Playground safety training. You shared that inspections were done but not recorded. Set reminders on a calendar to ensure inspections are documented monthly. Staff Records-Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important because it demonstrates compliance with the child care rules and ensures the health and safety of each child. Effective employee orientation makes employees aware of company policies and expectations, handles essential paperwork, and answers any questions or concerns they may have before they transition into their new positions. Documentation of orientation was not available for one staff. You reported the staff is still in orientation and it was not recorded on the orientation log. The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma Policy must be reviewed with staff prior to providing care to children. Documentation of the review was dated after providing care for four staff. Today, we discussed your orientation process. Create an outline for staff orientation and use the Documentation of Staff Orientation form and Staff File Checklist to assist you with deadlines. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
G.S. 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/10/2024 Number Present: 27 Completed Date: 6/10/2024 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 324 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 02:14 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 1/7/24, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for using a developmentally appropriate curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The sanitation inspection was completed 3/8/24 with a “Approved” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 9/14/23 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety percent as of 6/7/24. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 6/7/24 and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center, LLc was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor space were monitored. Five groups of children were observed engaging in indoor free play, transitions, and meals. Classrooms were arranged in learning centers including reading, manipulatives, dramatic play and blocks. Children’s art work and learning posters hang on the classroom walls. Children enrolled in space #5 received care according to individual needs including diapering and bottle feeding. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken tenders, French fries, peas, mixed fruit, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. Activity plans in spaces #1 and #2 were dated June 3-7, 2024. Activity plan in space #3 was dated May 13-17, 2024. No activity plan was posted in space #4. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 542 The written feeding plan was not modified as the child's needs changed. Feeding plans for one of three children enrolled in space #5 was last updated to reflect the child eating table food. 10 NCAC 09 .0902(a) 606 Running water, soap and individual sanitary towels, or other approved hand-drying devices were not supplied at each lavatory. Paper towels were not supplied in the staff and school age bathrooms. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(b) & (d) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The laminate edging of the cubby in space #4, is detached and protruding from the shelf causing a shape edge to be exposed. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The wooden fence on outdoor space #1 had one missing slat and two slats that have become detached at the top. There were vines with thorns growing along the chain linked fence of outdoor space #2. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One bottle of Clorox Scentevia Disinfectant spray and one bottle of Family Guard Disinfectant cleaner was located on top a cabinet in an unlocked staff bathroom outside of space #2. One Airwick automatic air freshener spray was stored on the sign-in counter of the lobby. .2820(b) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In outdoor space #2 there were two broken sifting toys, one torn hammock, a bike with a missing wheel, and a tricycle with a broken seat. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space #5 there were two white trash bags and 3 grocery bags stored in a cabinet under the diaper changing table with a latching lock. .0604(q) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Documentation of a playground inspection was only available for August 2023 and May 2024. .0605(q) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Documentation of orientation was not available for review for staff, S. Staton. .1101(a)(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Signed acknowledgement of review of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was dated after providing care for staff Y. Moore, D. Shackelford, J. Cox, and T. Garrett. .0608(d)(1-4) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Staff, T. Garrett, D. Shackleford, and J. Cox completed Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training beyond 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. A staff's purse was located on the floor of space #2. This is a violation of sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(g) Storage. 9996 A violation was found for which there is no item number. There was toilet paper was in space #1 and the staff bathroom. This is a violation of sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2817(a). Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 24, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P. O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotterl@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Storage of Hazardous Substances-Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. Add a lock with a key to the staff bathroom door or a locking storage cabinet in the bathroom to store chemicals. Outdoor Inspections- The outdoor learning environment allows children to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. Since children are exploring it is very important to provide a safe environment. Today I observed broke toys, broke fence slats and hazardous vines along the fence line. You stated the staff check as they go on the playground. Have a member of your staff examine the indoor and outdoor premises prior to providing care to children to immediately address any hazards that may be present. If materials are broke or damaged, staff should removed them and report the incident to center administrators for further assistance. Monthly inspections must be recorded and maintained for review. You reported you were had waited to complete the inspections until completing the Playground safety training. You shared that inspections were done but not recorded. Set reminders on a calendar to ensure inspections are documented monthly. Staff Records-Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important because it demonstrates compliance with the child care rules and ensures the health and safety of each child. Effective employee orientation makes employees aware of company policies and expectations, handles essential paperwork, and answers any questions or concerns they may have before they transition into their new positions. Documentation of orientation was not available for one staff. You reported the staff is still in orientation and it was not recorded on the orientation log. The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma Policy must be reviewed with staff prior to providing care to children. Documentation of the review was dated after providing care for four staff. Today, we discussed your orientation process. Create an outline for staff orientation and use the Documentation of Staff Orientation form and Staff File Checklist to assist you with deadlines. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
GS 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/10/2024 Number Present: 27 Completed Date: 6/10/2024 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 324 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 02:14 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 1/7/24, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for using a developmentally appropriate curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The sanitation inspection was completed 3/8/24 with a “Approved” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 9/14/23 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety percent as of 6/7/24. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 6/7/24 and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center, LLc was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor space were monitored. Five groups of children were observed engaging in indoor free play, transitions, and meals. Classrooms were arranged in learning centers including reading, manipulatives, dramatic play and blocks. Children’s art work and learning posters hang on the classroom walls. Children enrolled in space #5 received care according to individual needs including diapering and bottle feeding. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken tenders, French fries, peas, mixed fruit, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. Activity plans in spaces #1 and #2 were dated June 3-7, 2024. Activity plan in space #3 was dated May 13-17, 2024. No activity plan was posted in space #4. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 542 The written feeding plan was not modified as the child's needs changed. Feeding plans for one of three children enrolled in space #5 was last updated to reflect the child eating table food. 10 NCAC 09 .0902(a) 606 Running water, soap and individual sanitary towels, or other approved hand-drying devices were not supplied at each lavatory. Paper towels were not supplied in the staff and school age bathrooms. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(b) & (d) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The laminate edging of the cubby in space #4, is detached and protruding from the shelf causing a shape edge to be exposed. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The wooden fence on outdoor space #1 had one missing slat and two slats that have become detached at the top. There were vines with thorns growing along the chain linked fence of outdoor space #2. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One bottle of Clorox Scentevia Disinfectant spray and one bottle of Family Guard Disinfectant cleaner was located on top a cabinet in an unlocked staff bathroom outside of space #2. One Airwick automatic air freshener spray was stored on the sign-in counter of the lobby. .2820(b) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In outdoor space #2 there were two broken sifting toys, one torn hammock, a bike with a missing wheel, and a tricycle with a broken seat. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space #5 there were two white trash bags and 3 grocery bags stored in a cabinet under the diaper changing table with a latching lock. .0604(q) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Documentation of a playground inspection was only available for August 2023 and May 2024. .0605(q) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Documentation of orientation was not available for review for staff, S. Staton. .1101(a)(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Signed acknowledgement of review of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was dated after providing care for staff Y. Moore, D. Shackelford, J. Cox, and T. Garrett. .0608(d)(1-4) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Staff, T. Garrett, D. Shackleford, and J. Cox completed Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training beyond 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. A staff's purse was located on the floor of space #2. This is a violation of sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(g) Storage. 9996 A violation was found for which there is no item number. There was toilet paper was in space #1 and the staff bathroom. This is a violation of sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2817(a). Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 24, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P. O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotterl@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Storage of Hazardous Substances-Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. Add a lock with a key to the staff bathroom door or a locking storage cabinet in the bathroom to store chemicals. Outdoor Inspections- The outdoor learning environment allows children to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. Since children are exploring it is very important to provide a safe environment. Today I observed broke toys, broke fence slats and hazardous vines along the fence line. You stated the staff check as they go on the playground. Have a member of your staff examine the indoor and outdoor premises prior to providing care to children to immediately address any hazards that may be present. If materials are broke or damaged, staff should removed them and report the incident to center administrators for further assistance. Monthly inspections must be recorded and maintained for review. You reported you were had waited to complete the inspections until completing the Playground safety training. You shared that inspections were done but not recorded. Set reminders on a calendar to ensure inspections are documented monthly. Staff Records-Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important because it demonstrates compliance with the child care rules and ensures the health and safety of each child. Effective employee orientation makes employees aware of company policies and expectations, handles essential paperwork, and answers any questions or concerns they may have before they transition into their new positions. Documentation of orientation was not available for one staff. You reported the staff is still in orientation and it was not recorded on the orientation log. The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma Policy must be reviewed with staff prior to providing care to children. Documentation of the review was dated after providing care for four staff. Today, we discussed your orientation process. Create an outline for staff orientation and use the Documentation of Staff Orientation form and Staff File Checklist to assist you with deadlines. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: LESHAUNDA MCCOTTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/10/2024 Number Present: 27 Completed Date: 6/10/2024 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 324 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 02:14 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Your program currently operates with a three-star license, issued 1/7/24, earning 3 points in the education component, 4 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced requirements) and 1 quality point for using a developmentally appropriate curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The sanitation inspection was completed 3/8/24 with a “Approved” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 9/14/23 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety percent as of 6/7/24. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 6/7/24 and Tiny Hearts Child Care Center, LLc was listed as current- active. All indoor and outdoor space were monitored. Five groups of children were observed engaging in indoor free play, transitions, and meals. Classrooms were arranged in learning centers including reading, manipulatives, dramatic play and blocks. Children’s art work and learning posters hang on the classroom walls. Children enrolled in space #5 received care according to individual needs including diapering and bottle feeding. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken tenders, French fries, peas, mixed fruit, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. Activity plans in spaces #1 and #2 were dated June 3-7, 2024. Activity plan in space #3 was dated May 13-17, 2024. No activity plan was posted in space #4. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 542 The written feeding plan was not modified as the child's needs changed. Feeding plans for one of three children enrolled in space #5 was last updated to reflect the child eating table food. 10 NCAC 09 .0902(a) 606 Running water, soap and individual sanitary towels, or other approved hand-drying devices were not supplied at each lavatory. Paper towels were not supplied in the staff and school age bathrooms. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(b) & (d) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The laminate edging of the cubby in space #4, is detached and protruding from the shelf causing a shape edge to be exposed. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The wooden fence on outdoor space #1 had one missing slat and two slats that have become detached at the top. There were vines with thorns growing along the chain linked fence of outdoor space #2. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One bottle of Clorox Scentevia Disinfectant spray and one bottle of Family Guard Disinfectant cleaner was located on top a cabinet in an unlocked staff bathroom outside of space #2. One Airwick automatic air freshener spray was stored on the sign-in counter of the lobby. .2820(b) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. In outdoor space #2 there were two broken sifting toys, one torn hammock, a bike with a missing wheel, and a tricycle with a broken seat. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space #5 there were two white trash bags and 3 grocery bags stored in a cabinet under the diaper changing table with a latching lock. .0604(q) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Documentation of a playground inspection was only available for August 2023 and May 2024. .0605(q) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Documentation of orientation was not available for review for staff, S. Staton. .1101(a)(b) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. Signed acknowledgement of review of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was dated after providing care for staff Y. Moore, D. Shackelford, J. Cox, and T. Garrett. .0608(d)(1-4) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Staff, T. Garrett, D. Shackleford, and J. Cox completed Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training beyond 90 days of employment. .1102(g) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. A staff's purse was located on the floor of space #2. This is a violation of sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(g) Storage. 9996 A violation was found for which there is no item number. There was toilet paper was in space #1 and the staff bathroom. This is a violation of sanitation rule 15A NCAC 18A .2817(a). Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before June 24, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant P. O. Box 397 Grifton, NC 28530 LeShaunda.McCotterl@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Storage of Hazardous Substances-Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. Add a lock with a key to the staff bathroom door or a locking storage cabinet in the bathroom to store chemicals. Outdoor Inspections- The outdoor learning environment allows children to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. Since children are exploring it is very important to provide a safe environment. Today I observed broke toys, broke fence slats and hazardous vines along the fence line. You stated the staff check as they go on the playground. Have a member of your staff examine the indoor and outdoor premises prior to providing care to children to immediately address any hazards that may be present. If materials are broke or damaged, staff should removed them and report the incident to center administrators for further assistance. Monthly inspections must be recorded and maintained for review. You reported you were had waited to complete the inspections until completing the Playground safety training. You shared that inspections were done but not recorded. Set reminders on a calendar to ensure inspections are documented monthly. Staff Records-Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important because it demonstrates compliance with the child care rules and ensures the health and safety of each child. Effective employee orientation makes employees aware of company policies and expectations, handles essential paperwork, and answers any questions or concerns they may have before they transition into their new positions. Documentation of orientation was not available for one staff. You reported the staff is still in orientation and it was not recorded on the orientation log. The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma Policy must be reviewed with staff prior to providing care to children. Documentation of the review was dated after providing care for four staff. Today, we discussed your orientation process. Create an outline for staff orientation and use the Documentation of Staff Orientation form and Staff File Checklist to assist you with deadlines. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at LeShaunda McCotter, Child Care Consultant, 252-751-8634, LeShaunda.McCotter@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
GS110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: ANNE BUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/24/2023 Number Present: 7 Completed Date: 10/24/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 360 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 04:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor your program for compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the second temporary time period visit. The facility was issued a temporary time license on 7/6/23 to 1/6/24 caring for no more than 58 children on first shift. G. Crandell-Nelson, Owner/Administrator and A. Daniels, Assistant Administrator, assisted me with the visit. All classrooms were monitored in meeting all minimum licensing requirements, including staff/child ratios, supervision, materials, equipment, required posted items, including the Temporary License, activity plans, daily schedules, and nutrition. Facility records were reviewed. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for all pertinent safety and equipment related requirements. I reviewed three (3) children’s records, and all staff record information to include CBC qualification letters, CPR/First Aid, Health and Safety Trainings, and special training requirements. A completed Staff and Training Worksheet, on the form provided, must be submitted to me by 10/26/23. Sanitation Inspection – 8/15/23 Building Inspection – 4/12/23 Fire Inspection – 9/14/23 Fire inspections are required to be completed annually. You must contact your local inspector and request an inspection. When your inspection is completed, you must make a copy of the inspection for yourself and mail the original to your consultant. Corporation Status: This facility is currently owned by Tiny Hearts Child Care Center LLC. According to the NC Secretary of State's website, this corporation is current and active. Please contact me prior to any information changing regarding the ownership of this facility. The following violation(s) were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In space 2 an aerosol can of Febreze was located on a shelf, 5 feet above the floor, but not in locked storage. In space 3, a provider’s purse was stored on the floor beside a cabinet. The cabinet under the sink in the kitchen did not have a working lock and cleaning supplies were stored in the cabinet. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space 5 there was an empty plastic bag that had come with new bedding located under the changing table. In space 2, plastic trash bags were stored in the unlocked cabinet and drawer of the sink in the bathroom used by the children. .0604(q) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member had a certificate for an American Heart Association BLS Provider training, however there was no documentation to verify completion of First Aid training. .1102(c) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child enrolled on 9/11/23 did not have a medical exam on file for review today. GS110-91(1) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. On 2, out of 3 children's files reviewed, the date of enrollment was not included on the signature page used to document receipt of the policy. .1804(b) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Two staff members, out of 8 staff files reviewed, had not completed the training within 90 days of hire. .1102(g) As a licensed child care operator, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to maintain compliance with them. The NC General Statutes (Updated September 2020), Child Care Rules (Updated February 2021), and the “What’s New” section of The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website, ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov, are excellent resources to help you stay current with the child care requirements. The most current forms and documents needed for your licensed facility are available under the Provider tab. Many of them are now interactive so that you can type right into the form. Many of the forms needed for families are now offered in Spanish too. And of course, I am also available to assist you, should you have questions about the child care requirements. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 11/7/23, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Anne Buck, Child Care Consultant PO Box 2363 Elizabeth City, NC 27906 Anne.Buck@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Storage of Hazardous Materials – Following the required cleaning and sanitizing requirements is extremely important, however, having these items available for quick and easy use can lead to improper storage. In space 2 an aerosol can of Febreze was located on a shelf, 5 feet above the floor, but not in locked storage. In space 3, a provider’s purse was stored on the floor beside a cabinet. The cabinet under the sink in the kitchen did not have a working lock and cleaning supplies were stored in the cabinet. Any product under pressure and any product that includes more than one warning must be in locked storage. These requirements must be reviewed with staff to ensure compliance in the future. Consider adding policies and procedures for where staff are allowed to store their personal belongings. The cabinet in the kitchen may require a stronger lock as this cabinet is used more frequently than others. It must be locked even if the door to the kitchen is locked. This is a repeat violation. Plastic Bags and Bio contaminants - Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. In child care facilities, plastic bags must be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. In space 5 there was an empty plastic bag that had come with new bedding located under the changing table. In space 2, plastic trash bags were stored in the unlocked cabinet and drawer of the sink in the bathroom used by the children. This is a repeat violation. Children’s Health Assessment - Each child shall have a health assessment before being admitted or within 30 days following admission to a child care facility. One child enrolled on 9/11/23 did not have a medical exam on file for review today. We discussed that it is important to know if a child is healthy enough to be in care. Per our discussion, consider requiring parents to provide the health assessment prior to enrollment. If the parent fails to provide documentation within 2 weeks, the child may not return to care until verification is on file. Discipline Policy - Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important because it demonstrates compliance with the child care rules and ensures the health and safety of each child. A discipline policy must be reviewed with each parent prior to enrollment, and they must sign the form showing this was completed. The date of enrollment must be indicated on the form to demonstrate this review was done before the child started in the center. Review your children’s files on a regular basis to ensure all information is on file, as required. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment Training - Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment Training is due within three months of hire. Completing this training ensures that staff know what to look for and how to report their suspicions of child maltreatment to ensure children are safe. Two staff members, out of 8 staff files reviewed, had not completed the training within 90 days of hire. Per our discussion, consider making this part of your orientation training before the provider is released to work in a classroom. First Aid - Basic first aid certification is essential to respond quickly to injuries and emergencies. All staff who are left alone with children must have a current first aid certification. Documentation, whether a certification card or certificate, must be on file to confirm staff have a current certification. T. Garrett had a certificate for an American Heart Association BLS Provider training, however there was no documentation for completion of First Aid training. Per our discussion, BLS Provider training only meets the requirement for CPR. If the provider cannot give documentation that First Aid was part of the training, she must complete a First Aid training. Together we reviewed the “Be a smart consumer of CPR/FA” on the Division website. Use this resource to ensure all staff have training from approved sources. Reminders: Emergency Medical Care Plan – The current posted Emergency Medical Care Plan listed the classroom teacher as the primary person who would make decisions during an emergency. You and your assistant were listed as the secondary person. You stated that the form was completed when the only staff were you and your assistant. Per our discussion, you stated that you do not want the classroom teachers making emergency decision. The form would need to be updated to put either you or your assistant as the primary person. Rated License Information: Child Care Centers with a Temporary License in good standing may be eligible for participation in the NC Child Care Subsidy System during their first 6 months of operation. Only programs with a 3 Star or higher license are eligible to continue to participate in the Subsidy System after the first 6 months of operation. You should begin making plans now to obtain at least a 3 Star License by the expiration of your Temporary License if you intend to participate in the NC Subsidized Child Care System. Program –An Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License and the request form for the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) was received on 9/5/23. Your assessment is scheduled with a window of 11/6/23 to 12/1/23. Technical assistance was given on materials, substantial portion of the day, and sanitation requirements. Education – Some staff members still do not have information submitted to WORKS. This must be completed as soon as possible. Staff education will be evaluated based on the information in WORKS at the end of your Temporary Time license. For information about NCID and WORKS, please visit the DCDEE website at www.ncchildcare.nc.gov. You can also contact the Workforce Education Unit at 1-800-859-0829 (In State Only) or 919-527-6600 for more information concerning WORKS. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If I may be of further assistance, please contact me by phone at 252-333-2084 or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, may also be contacted at (252) 373-4199. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: ANNE BUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/24/2023 Number Present: 7 Completed Date: 10/24/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 360 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 04:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor your program for compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the second temporary time period visit. The facility was issued a temporary time license on 7/6/23 to 1/6/24 caring for no more than 58 children on first shift. G. Crandell-Nelson, Owner/Administrator and A. Daniels, Assistant Administrator, assisted me with the visit. All classrooms were monitored in meeting all minimum licensing requirements, including staff/child ratios, supervision, materials, equipment, required posted items, including the Temporary License, activity plans, daily schedules, and nutrition. Facility records were reviewed. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for all pertinent safety and equipment related requirements. I reviewed three (3) children’s records, and all staff record information to include CBC qualification letters, CPR/First Aid, Health and Safety Trainings, and special training requirements. A completed Staff and Training Worksheet, on the form provided, must be submitted to me by 10/26/23. Sanitation Inspection – 8/15/23 Building Inspection – 4/12/23 Fire Inspection – 9/14/23 Fire inspections are required to be completed annually. You must contact your local inspector and request an inspection. When your inspection is completed, you must make a copy of the inspection for yourself and mail the original to your consultant. Corporation Status: This facility is currently owned by Tiny Hearts Child Care Center LLC. According to the NC Secretary of State's website, this corporation is current and active. Please contact me prior to any information changing regarding the ownership of this facility. The following violation(s) were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In space 2 an aerosol can of Febreze was located on a shelf, 5 feet above the floor, but not in locked storage. In space 3, a provider’s purse was stored on the floor beside a cabinet. The cabinet under the sink in the kitchen did not have a working lock and cleaning supplies were stored in the cabinet. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space 5 there was an empty plastic bag that had come with new bedding located under the changing table. In space 2, plastic trash bags were stored in the unlocked cabinet and drawer of the sink in the bathroom used by the children. .0604(q) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. One staff member had a certificate for an American Heart Association BLS Provider training, however there was no documentation to verify completion of First Aid training. .1102(c) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child enrolled on 9/11/23 did not have a medical exam on file for review today. GS110-91(1) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. On 2, out of 3 children's files reviewed, the date of enrollment was not included on the signature page used to document receipt of the policy. .1804(b) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Two staff members, out of 8 staff files reviewed, had not completed the training within 90 days of hire. .1102(g) As a licensed child care operator, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to maintain compliance with them. The NC General Statutes (Updated September 2020), Child Care Rules (Updated February 2021), and the “What’s New” section of The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website, ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov, are excellent resources to help you stay current with the child care requirements. The most current forms and documents needed for your licensed facility are available under the Provider tab. Many of them are now interactive so that you can type right into the form. Many of the forms needed for families are now offered in Spanish too. And of course, I am also available to assist you, should you have questions about the child care requirements. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 11/7/23, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Anne Buck, Child Care Consultant PO Box 2363 Elizabeth City, NC 27906 Anne.Buck@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Storage of Hazardous Materials – Following the required cleaning and sanitizing requirements is extremely important, however, having these items available for quick and easy use can lead to improper storage. In space 2 an aerosol can of Febreze was located on a shelf, 5 feet above the floor, but not in locked storage. In space 3, a provider’s purse was stored on the floor beside a cabinet. The cabinet under the sink in the kitchen did not have a working lock and cleaning supplies were stored in the cabinet. Any product under pressure and any product that includes more than one warning must be in locked storage. These requirements must be reviewed with staff to ensure compliance in the future. Consider adding policies and procedures for where staff are allowed to store their personal belongings. The cabinet in the kitchen may require a stronger lock as this cabinet is used more frequently than others. It must be locked even if the door to the kitchen is locked. This is a repeat violation. Plastic Bags and Bio contaminants - Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. In child care facilities, plastic bags must be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. In space 5 there was an empty plastic bag that had come with new bedding located under the changing table. In space 2, plastic trash bags were stored in the unlocked cabinet and drawer of the sink in the bathroom used by the children. This is a repeat violation. Children’s Health Assessment - Each child shall have a health assessment before being admitted or within 30 days following admission to a child care facility. One child enrolled on 9/11/23 did not have a medical exam on file for review today. We discussed that it is important to know if a child is healthy enough to be in care. Per our discussion, consider requiring parents to provide the health assessment prior to enrollment. If the parent fails to provide documentation within 2 weeks, the child may not return to care until verification is on file. Discipline Policy - Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important because it demonstrates compliance with the child care rules and ensures the health and safety of each child. A discipline policy must be reviewed with each parent prior to enrollment, and they must sign the form showing this was completed. The date of enrollment must be indicated on the form to demonstrate this review was done before the child started in the center. Review your children’s files on a regular basis to ensure all information is on file, as required. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment Training - Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment Training is due within three months of hire. Completing this training ensures that staff know what to look for and how to report their suspicions of child maltreatment to ensure children are safe. Two staff members, out of 8 staff files reviewed, had not completed the training within 90 days of hire. Per our discussion, consider making this part of your orientation training before the provider is released to work in a classroom. First Aid - Basic first aid certification is essential to respond quickly to injuries and emergencies. All staff who are left alone with children must have a current first aid certification. Documentation, whether a certification card or certificate, must be on file to confirm staff have a current certification. T. Garrett had a certificate for an American Heart Association BLS Provider training, however there was no documentation for completion of First Aid training. Per our discussion, BLS Provider training only meets the requirement for CPR. If the provider cannot give documentation that First Aid was part of the training, she must complete a First Aid training. Together we reviewed the “Be a smart consumer of CPR/FA” on the Division website. Use this resource to ensure all staff have training from approved sources. Reminders: Emergency Medical Care Plan – The current posted Emergency Medical Care Plan listed the classroom teacher as the primary person who would make decisions during an emergency. You and your assistant were listed as the secondary person. You stated that the form was completed when the only staff were you and your assistant. Per our discussion, you stated that you do not want the classroom teachers making emergency decision. The form would need to be updated to put either you or your assistant as the primary person. Rated License Information: Child Care Centers with a Temporary License in good standing may be eligible for participation in the NC Child Care Subsidy System during their first 6 months of operation. Only programs with a 3 Star or higher license are eligible to continue to participate in the Subsidy System after the first 6 months of operation. You should begin making plans now to obtain at least a 3 Star License by the expiration of your Temporary License if you intend to participate in the NC Subsidized Child Care System. Program –An Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License and the request form for the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) was received on 9/5/23. Your assessment is scheduled with a window of 11/6/23 to 12/1/23. Technical assistance was given on materials, substantial portion of the day, and sanitation requirements. Education – Some staff members still do not have information submitted to WORKS. This must be completed as soon as possible. Staff education will be evaluated based on the information in WORKS at the end of your Temporary Time license. For information about NCID and WORKS, please visit the DCDEE website at www.ncchildcare.nc.gov. You can also contact the Workforce Education Unit at 1-800-859-0829 (In State Only) or 919-527-6600 for more information concerning WORKS. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If I may be of further assistance, please contact me by phone at 252-333-2084 or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, may also be contacted at (252) 373-4199. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
10A NCAC 09 .0902 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: ANNE BUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/23/2023 Number Present: 21 Completed Date: 8/23/2023 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 340 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 04:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor your program for compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the first temporary time period visit. The facility was issued a temporary time license on 7/6/23 to 1/6/24 caring for no more than 58 children on first shift. G. Crandell-Nelson assisted with the visit. All classrooms were monitored in meeting all minimum licensing requirements, including staff/child ratios, supervision, materials, equipment, required posted items, including the Temporary License, activity plans, daily schedules, and nutrition. Facility records were reviewed. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for all pertinent safety and equipment related requirements. I reviewed three (3) children’s records and all staff record information to include CBC qualification letters, CPR/First Aid, Health and Safety Trainings, and special training requirements. Sanitation Inspection – 8/15/23 Building Inspection – 4/12/23 Fire Inspection – 7/11/22 Fire inspections are required to be completed annually. You must contact your local inspector and request an inspection. When your inspection is completed, you must make a copy of the inspection for yourself and mail the original to me within five days of completion. My mailing address is at P.O. Box 2363, Elizabeth City, NC 27909. Corporation Status: This facility is currently owned by Tiny Hearts Child Care Center LLC. According to the NC Secretary of State's website, this corporation is current and active. Please contact me prior to any information changing regarding the ownership of this facility. The following violation(s) were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence)In space 5, the plan for KE was not signed by the parent. The first page of the form was not available for AY. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. An aerosol can of Febreze was located on a shelf, 5 feet above the floor, but not in locked storage. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space 5, there was a plastic grocery bag containing a soiled sheet, located on top of the small refrigerator and accessible to the children. .0604(q) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. One file, out of 3 children’s files reviewed, did not include information on their unique behavior characteristics or documentation of review of required policies and procedures. .0801(a)(1-7) As a licensed child care operator, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to maintain compliance with them. The NC General Statutes (Updated September 2020), Child Care Rules (Updated February 2021), and the “What’s New” section of The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website, ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov, are excellent resources to help you stay current with the child care requirements. The most current forms and documents needed for your licensed facility are available under the Provider tab. Many of them are now interactive so that you can type right into the form. Many of the forms needed for families are now offered in Spanish too. And of course, I am also available to assist you, should you have questions about the child care requirements. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 9/6/23, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Anne Buck, Child Care Consultant PO Box 2363 Elizabeth City, NC 27906 Anne.Buck@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Storage of Hazardous Materials – Following the required cleaning and sanitizing requirements is extremely important, however, having these items available for quick and easy use can lead to improper storage. An aerosol can of Febreze was located on a shelf, 5 feet above the floor, but not in locked storage. Any product under pressure and any product that includes more than one warning must be in locked storage. Ensure that staff are also keeping items that are not required to be locked, a minimum of 5 feet above the floor and out of reach of children. Hand sanitizers must be stored 5 feet above the floor when not in use. Take a fresh look at where and how these items are stored to make them quick and easy to access when needed, but still maintain the safety of the children in care. Per our discussion, you have a lock box for each classroom to store these items. The This violation was corrected during the visit. Plastic Bags and Bio contaminants - Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. According to Caring for Our Children, 3rd edition, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has received average annual reports of twenty-five deaths per year to children due to suffocation from plastic bags. In child care facilities, plastic bags should be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. In space 5, there was a plastic grocery bag containing a soiled sheet, located on top of the small refrigerator and accessible to the children. Per our discussion, your cubbies are mounted high enough on the wall that you can store soiled items there and be in compliance. Any soiled items or diapers must be made inaccessible to the children to prevent cross contamination. This was corrected during the visit. Infant Feeding Plan – To ensure continuity of care between the provider and home, the parents or healthcare provider must complete an individual written feeding plan for each child under the age of 15 months. The information in the plan helps the provider follow the same schedule with the same types of foods as the parent is providing at home. Children feel more secure when their day follows a steady pattern. The written plan must be signed by the parent and posted in the classroom for the provider to follow. The form must be updated as the child’s needs change. In space 5, the plan for KE was not signed by the parent. The first page of the form was not available for AY. Per our discussion, with any form, you must review the information to ensure all items have been completed as required. Consider placing your forms in individual plastic covers and hang them on the wall for easy reference. Application Required Information – All of the information on the child’s application is important to help you care for the child. One file, out of 3 children’s files reviewed, did not include information on their unique behavior characteristics or documentation of review of required policies and procedures. Per our discussion, parents need the information on your policies and procedures to support you in caring for their child. Reminders: Emergency Drills – As a new provider, it is important to practice your emergency drills as soon a possible so that new staff and children know how to respond in the event of an emergency. These drills help providers and children to be calm and react quickly when needed. Balloons – Balloons are considered a safety risk and are therefore not allowed in child care facilities. This includes special occasions and science experiments. Activity Plans - Activity Plans must address four of the five domains as listed in the NC Foundations for Early Learning. Plans can be completed weekly or monthly but must be current and rotate activities to include all five domains outlined in the NC Foundations of Early Learning. The developmental domains include emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language development and communication, and cognitive development. It must identify activities that allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, part of the group, or independent of the group. It must also reflect that children have at least four different activities daily, at least one of which is outdoors. This should include art and other creative play; children's books; blocks and block building; manipulatives; and family living and dramatic play. You must also provide materials and opportunities at least weekly, indoors or outdoors, for music and rhythm; science and nature; and sand and water play. Rated License Information: Child Care Centers with a Temporary License in good standing may be eligible for participation in the NC Child Care Subsidy System during their first 6 months of operation. Only programs with a 3 Star or higher license are eligible to continue to participate in the Subsidy System after the first 6 months of operation. You should begin making plans now to obtain at least a 3 Star License by the expiration of your Temporary License if you intend to participate in the NC Subsidized Child Care System. The facility must have an overall compliance history of at least 75% to be eligible for a star rated license. Prior to today’s visit, the center’s overall compliance history was 100%. Documented violations from today’s visit will impact the center’s compliance history. It is important to implement processes and systems to prevent reoccurrence of documented violations. We discussed the rated license process. An Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License and the request form for the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) was provided to you today. A quality point option form was provided to you. We discussed the Environment Rating Scales and your choice to participate in the ERS for potential points towards a star rated license. If you choose to request the ERS, the scales would need to be completed November 2023 prior to the expiration of the Temporary License on 1/6/24. I recommended you review the applicable assessment tools at www.ncrlap.org and review training modules available and the additional resources provided. I encourage you to contact Martin Pitt Partnership for Children at 252-758-8885 to request technical assistance in preparation for the ERS. NC Rated License Assessment Project (NC-RLAP) - The NC-RLAP website has a wealth of information on the Environment Rating Scales and overall quality issues for child care. You can download NC Additional Notes for each of the scales and find additional information that will help you with your assessment. Training videos are available on the following topics: Overview of the Assessment Process, Using Materials with Non-Mobile Infants, A Safe Place for Gross Motor Play, Hand washing and Other Basic Health Considerations, Language for Learning. NC-RLAP also offers free webinars to provide training and information about the Environment Rating Scales. Access to the webinars requires a computer with a high-speed internet connection and a phone. The webinars are typically offered between 1:00 - 1:45 PM, a typical napping time in most child care programs. To register for a session, call 1-866- 3NCRLAP (1-866-362-7527). Registration will close the day before the webinar, so please do not wait until the morning of the webinar to register. There must be at least seven participants signed up for the session, or it may be cancelled. To access resources or information on webinars, go to www.ncrlap.org. WORKS is a self-service applicant portal that will be used by an individual applicant to register and maintain their workforce information to support education requirements. The WORKS portal is available online and requires that the user maintain an individual North Carolina Identity Management (NCID) user name and password. All paperwork, except for official transcripts, will no longer be submitted to the Workforce Education Unit. These documents will be uploaded using WORKS via each applicant’s WORKS account. All staff must be registered in WORKS no later than 9/29/23. For more information about NCID and WORKS, please visit the DCDEE website at www.ncchildcare.nc.gov to view more information under the DCDEE WORKS tab http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/general/mb_dcdeeworks.asp. You can also contact the Workforce Education Unit at 1-800-859-0829 (In State Only) or 919-527-6600 for more information concerning WORKS. Program – The owner/administrator plans to complete the ERS during the temporary time period. The application and the Rated License Assessment Request Review forms must be completed and submitted to me by no later than 9/1/23. Technical assistance was given to help prepare for the assessment. Education – Education will be evaluated once all staff have submitted their information to WORKS. Additional Information: Moodle Support - The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through the online learning platform Moodle. DCDEE has established a new support email address and phone number to help providers navigate Moodle. To get help with Moodle, email DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. The NC Early Childhood Credential Equivalency Exam is another pathway option comparable to a NC Early Childhood Credential. This equivalency exam assesses the foundations of culturally responsive, equitable and inclusive early childhood education, planning intentional developmentally appropriate experiences, learning activities, and teaching strategies for indoor and outdoor environments for all young children, guidance techniques, and professionalism. This option is now available on Moodle at no cost. Before staff take the test, they should review the NC Child Care Rules, the NC Foundations of Early Education and Development, and the most current version of Caring for Our Children. Each of these will help them prepare to score well on the test. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If I may be of further assistance, please contact me by phone at 252-333-2084 or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, may also be contacted at (252) 373-4199. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: TINY HEARTS CHILD CARE CENTER Facility ID: 74000944 Consultant: ANNE BUCK Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/23/2023 Number Present: 21 Completed Date: 8/23/2023 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 340 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 04:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor your program for compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the first temporary time period visit. The facility was issued a temporary time license on 7/6/23 to 1/6/24 caring for no more than 58 children on first shift. G. Crandell-Nelson assisted with the visit. All classrooms were monitored in meeting all minimum licensing requirements, including staff/child ratios, supervision, materials, equipment, required posted items, including the Temporary License, activity plans, daily schedules, and nutrition. Facility records were reviewed. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for all pertinent safety and equipment related requirements. I reviewed three (3) children’s records and all staff record information to include CBC qualification letters, CPR/First Aid, Health and Safety Trainings, and special training requirements. Sanitation Inspection – 8/15/23 Building Inspection – 4/12/23 Fire Inspection – 7/11/22 Fire inspections are required to be completed annually. You must contact your local inspector and request an inspection. When your inspection is completed, you must make a copy of the inspection for yourself and mail the original to me within five days of completion. My mailing address is at P.O. Box 2363, Elizabeth City, NC 27909. Corporation Status: This facility is currently owned by Tiny Hearts Child Care Center LLC. According to the NC Secretary of State's website, this corporation is current and active. Please contact me prior to any information changing regarding the ownership of this facility. The following violation(s) were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence)In space 5, the plan for KE was not signed by the parent. The first page of the form was not available for AY. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. An aerosol can of Febreze was located on a shelf, 5 feet above the floor, but not in locked storage. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space 5, there was a plastic grocery bag containing a soiled sheet, located on top of the small refrigerator and accessible to the children. .0604(q) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. One file, out of 3 children’s files reviewed, did not include information on their unique behavior characteristics or documentation of review of required policies and procedures. .0801(a)(1-7) As a licensed child care operator, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to maintain compliance with them. The NC General Statutes (Updated September 2020), Child Care Rules (Updated February 2021), and the “What’s New” section of The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website, ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov, are excellent resources to help you stay current with the child care requirements. The most current forms and documents needed for your licensed facility are available under the Provider tab. Many of them are now interactive so that you can type right into the form. Many of the forms needed for families are now offered in Spanish too. And of course, I am also available to assist you, should you have questions about the child care requirements. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 9/6/23, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Anne Buck, Child Care Consultant PO Box 2363 Elizabeth City, NC 27906 Anne.Buck@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Storage of Hazardous Materials – Following the required cleaning and sanitizing requirements is extremely important, however, having these items available for quick and easy use can lead to improper storage. An aerosol can of Febreze was located on a shelf, 5 feet above the floor, but not in locked storage. Any product under pressure and any product that includes more than one warning must be in locked storage. Ensure that staff are also keeping items that are not required to be locked, a minimum of 5 feet above the floor and out of reach of children. Hand sanitizers must be stored 5 feet above the floor when not in use. Take a fresh look at where and how these items are stored to make them quick and easy to access when needed, but still maintain the safety of the children in care. Per our discussion, you have a lock box for each classroom to store these items. The This violation was corrected during the visit. Plastic Bags and Bio contaminants - Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. According to Caring for Our Children, 3rd edition, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has received average annual reports of twenty-five deaths per year to children due to suffocation from plastic bags. In child care facilities, plastic bags should be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. In space 5, there was a plastic grocery bag containing a soiled sheet, located on top of the small refrigerator and accessible to the children. Per our discussion, your cubbies are mounted high enough on the wall that you can store soiled items there and be in compliance. Any soiled items or diapers must be made inaccessible to the children to prevent cross contamination. This was corrected during the visit. Infant Feeding Plan – To ensure continuity of care between the provider and home, the parents or healthcare provider must complete an individual written feeding plan for each child under the age of 15 months. The information in the plan helps the provider follow the same schedule with the same types of foods as the parent is providing at home. Children feel more secure when their day follows a steady pattern. The written plan must be signed by the parent and posted in the classroom for the provider to follow. The form must be updated as the child’s needs change. In space 5, the plan for KE was not signed by the parent. The first page of the form was not available for AY. Per our discussion, with any form, you must review the information to ensure all items have been completed as required. Consider placing your forms in individual plastic covers and hang them on the wall for easy reference. Application Required Information – All of the information on the child’s application is important to help you care for the child. One file, out of 3 children’s files reviewed, did not include information on their unique behavior characteristics or documentation of review of required policies and procedures. Per our discussion, parents need the information on your policies and procedures to support you in caring for their child. Reminders: Emergency Drills – As a new provider, it is important to practice your emergency drills as soon a possible so that new staff and children know how to respond in the event of an emergency. These drills help providers and children to be calm and react quickly when needed. Balloons – Balloons are considered a safety risk and are therefore not allowed in child care facilities. This includes special occasions and science experiments. Activity Plans - Activity Plans must address four of the five domains as listed in the NC Foundations for Early Learning. Plans can be completed weekly or monthly but must be current and rotate activities to include all five domains outlined in the NC Foundations of Early Learning. The developmental domains include emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language development and communication, and cognitive development. It must identify activities that allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, part of the group, or independent of the group. It must also reflect that children have at least four different activities daily, at least one of which is outdoors. This should include art and other creative play; children's books; blocks and block building; manipulatives; and family living and dramatic play. You must also provide materials and opportunities at least weekly, indoors or outdoors, for music and rhythm; science and nature; and sand and water play. Rated License Information: Child Care Centers with a Temporary License in good standing may be eligible for participation in the NC Child Care Subsidy System during their first 6 months of operation. Only programs with a 3 Star or higher license are eligible to continue to participate in the Subsidy System after the first 6 months of operation. You should begin making plans now to obtain at least a 3 Star License by the expiration of your Temporary License if you intend to participate in the NC Subsidized Child Care System. The facility must have an overall compliance history of at least 75% to be eligible for a star rated license. Prior to today’s visit, the center’s overall compliance history was 100%. Documented violations from today’s visit will impact the center’s compliance history. It is important to implement processes and systems to prevent reoccurrence of documented violations. We discussed the rated license process. An Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License and the request form for the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) was provided to you today. A quality point option form was provided to you. We discussed the Environment Rating Scales and your choice to participate in the ERS for potential points towards a star rated license. If you choose to request the ERS, the scales would need to be completed November 2023 prior to the expiration of the Temporary License on 1/6/24. I recommended you review the applicable assessment tools at www.ncrlap.org and review training modules available and the additional resources provided. I encourage you to contact Martin Pitt Partnership for Children at 252-758-8885 to request technical assistance in preparation for the ERS. NC Rated License Assessment Project (NC-RLAP) - The NC-RLAP website has a wealth of information on the Environment Rating Scales and overall quality issues for child care. You can download NC Additional Notes for each of the scales and find additional information that will help you with your assessment. Training videos are available on the following topics: Overview of the Assessment Process, Using Materials with Non-Mobile Infants, A Safe Place for Gross Motor Play, Hand washing and Other Basic Health Considerations, Language for Learning. NC-RLAP also offers free webinars to provide training and information about the Environment Rating Scales. Access to the webinars requires a computer with a high-speed internet connection and a phone. The webinars are typically offered between 1:00 - 1:45 PM, a typical napping time in most child care programs. To register for a session, call 1-866- 3NCRLAP (1-866-362-7527). Registration will close the day before the webinar, so please do not wait until the morning of the webinar to register. There must be at least seven participants signed up for the session, or it may be cancelled. To access resources or information on webinars, go to www.ncrlap.org. WORKS is a self-service applicant portal that will be used by an individual applicant to register and maintain their workforce information to support education requirements. The WORKS portal is available online and requires that the user maintain an individual North Carolina Identity Management (NCID) user name and password. All paperwork, except for official transcripts, will no longer be submitted to the Workforce Education Unit. These documents will be uploaded using WORKS via each applicant’s WORKS account. All staff must be registered in WORKS no later than 9/29/23. For more information about NCID and WORKS, please visit the DCDEE website at www.ncchildcare.nc.gov to view more information under the DCDEE WORKS tab http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/general/mb_dcdeeworks.asp. You can also contact the Workforce Education Unit at 1-800-859-0829 (In State Only) or 919-527-6600 for more information concerning WORKS. Program – The owner/administrator plans to complete the ERS during the temporary time period. The application and the Rated License Assessment Request Review forms must be completed and submitted to me by no later than 9/1/23. Technical assistance was given to help prepare for the assessment. Education – Education will be evaluated once all staff have submitted their information to WORKS. Additional Information: Moodle Support - The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through the online learning platform Moodle. DCDEE has established a new support email address and phone number to help providers navigate Moodle. To get help with Moodle, email DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. The NC Early Childhood Credential Equivalency Exam is another pathway option comparable to a NC Early Childhood Credential. This equivalency exam assesses the foundations of culturally responsive, equitable and inclusive early childhood education, planning intentional developmentally appropriate experiences, learning activities, and teaching strategies for indoor and outdoor environments for all young children, guidance techniques, and professionalism. This option is now available on Moodle at no cost. Before staff take the test, they should review the NC Child Care Rules, the NC Foundations of Early Education and Development, and the most current version of Caring for Our Children. Each of these will help them prepare to score well on the test. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If I may be of further assistance, please contact me by phone at 252-333-2084 or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, may also be contacted at (252) 373-4199. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.