10A NCAC 09 .0514 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/30/2025 Number Present: 93 Completed Date: 10/30/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 01:00 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 childcare requirements for an annual compliance visit. Shelia Morris- Dennis, Director, was present and available for consultation. The program currently operates with a special provisional license issued October 8, 2025. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhanced space. Child Care Consultant, Natalie Pond, assisted with the visit today. The last annual compliance visit was completed on November 14, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed July 7, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted March 18, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. Prior to the visit the 18-month compliance history score was 79%. Today Ms. Morris- Dennis and I discussed plans to ensure compliance in efforts to not only keep the children in a healthy and safe environment but to increase the compliance history score. Ms. Morris- Dennis plans to use the annual compliance monitoring checklist used today to daily/weekly spot checks to ensure compliance. we also discussed reaching out to Smart Start for additional support on file organization. Ms. Morris- Dennis was informed that if the compliance history score drops below 75% the program may be issued an administrative action. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and Little Sandpipers’ Child Learning Center, Inc. was listed as current- active. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules and current activity plans were available for review and were being followed. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials was observed in the classroom. Infants in Spaces 6 had routine care needs met such as napping routines and feedings or they engaged in free play. Infant feeding schedules and safe sleep checks were monitored and found to be in compliance. Toddlers in space 1 and space 5 did group art activities in preparation for Halloween. Two-year-old children in Space 3 were observed in outdoor free play. Two year old children in space 4 also participated in group art. Preschool children in spaces 3, 7a, and 7b participated in free play or finished breakfast that consisted of French toast sticks, tropical fruit, and milk. Activity areas consisted of language, manipulative toys, dramatic play, art, and blocks. Staff and Training Worksheets- There were twenty (20) staff members employed at this facility. There was one new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Health & Safety Training – All staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the NC Child Care Law on file. GS 110-102 707 Equipment and furnishings not meeting the requirements outlined in child care .0601(b) and (c) were not removed or made inaccessible. A chair in space 7a had three (3) sharp pointed screws exposed. .0601(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Leftover diaper cream was not returned to the parent or discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment in space 1. .0803(12) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed receipt of the safe sleep policy on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the operational policies on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Three (3) employees have not completed an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child 8 months of age did not have a medical exam on file. GS110-91(1) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. A child 8 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the discipline policy on file. .1804(c) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. A child 8 months of age did not have unique behaviors listed on their application. .0801(a)(1-7) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the smoking and tobacco restriction on file. .0604(j) 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. A staff member hired March 21, 2025, did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. She completed the training on October 22, 2025. .1102(g) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. A staff member did not complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 5 years of initially completing the course (2/9/2020). .1103(b) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma on file. .0608(b)(1-6) 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 November 13, 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: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@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 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance regarding violation cited: When no longer needed by the child, or when the child withdraws from the program, all medications should be returned to the child’s parent/guardian or disposed of after an attempt to reach parent/guardian within 72 hours of completion of treatment. Staff must pay close attention to expiration dates on permission forms. Today I suggested staff make a chart on medications and their expiration dates and post the inside of the cabinet for quick reference. Staff must check all furnishing and equipment daily and remove any broken furnishings and equipment to ensure children are cared for in a safe environment. Today we also discusses administration checking classrooms as well and immediately remove broken items. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding file organization. I suggested that you use the revised file checklists under “Provider Documents and Forms” on the DCDEE website to assist with organization and ensure all requirements are met. I also encouraged you to review the chart in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2318 for more information about records retention. Administrative Action Follow-Up: The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on July 31, 2025. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding staff/child ratios and incident reports. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes four (4) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 was monitored and found in compliance. Stipulation #2 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and grouping of children was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and groupings of children were received August 18, 2025, and approved on August 21, 2025, both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #3 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for incident reports was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for incident reports were received August 18, 2025, and approved on August 21, 2025, both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #4 – This stipulation was due by August 28, 2025. The documentation from the staff meeting was received on August 25, 2025. This stipulation is complete. All stipulations were monitored, and the facility demonstrated the implementations are working effectively. Other Information Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. Ms. Morris-Dennis has completed the training and has entered staff. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Should you need assistance with the portal or the training, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401and someone will assist you. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on July 25, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- No results available • Asbestos- No results available Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ 2025 Annual Childcare Immunization Report Memo-Download the 2025 Annual Childcare Immunization Report Memo The purpose of this memo is to notify childcare operators/Head Start directors and NC Pre-K classrooms of the 2025 annual immunization reporting requirements. North Carolina immunization law requires all schools providing Pre-K and all licensed childcare facilities (as defined in G.S. 110-86(3)) to file an annual immunization report on children aged newborn through preschool (G.S. 130A155(c)). This report is used to determine the number of children who meet state immunization requirements under 10A NCAC 41A.0401, ensuring that children in attendance at your childcare facility are protected against vaccine-preventable diseases. How to Submit your Report • The reporting portal is now open, and reports may be completed at any time prior to the due date but must be submitted electronically via this link. • Instructions and worksheets are available for downloading and may be used to collect data needed before entering your individual school information online. • Only one current report will be accepted per childcare facility, per report period. • All reports must be submitted electronically by midnight, November 15, 2025. • Reports will not be accepted after this date. • If your facility has no children enrolled or is closed, you are still required to submit a report. This ensures your facility is counted and not considered delinquent or missing. • For NC Pre-K and Head Start programs, include all children who attend full-time. • Do not include children already reported on the Annual Kindergarten Immunization Report. If you have additional questions about this report or are not able to access the internet to complete the report, email Immunization.Reports@dhhs.nc.gov or call 877-873-6247. July 2025 Rule Changes: Summary, Training Available The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is excited to share information about the July 2025 child care rule changes. The Child Care Commission adopted rules to support QRIS modernization. The new section, .3200, provides the standards for earning a two-though five-star-rated license. There are three pathways: program assessment, classroom and instructional quality, and accreditation and head start. To support the QRIS changes, additional rules were amended within the following sections: definitions, developmental day services, and NC Pre-Kindergarten services. Consultants will assist as you begin to review the changes, but please note some of the rule changes may not impact your facility. DCDEE has provided a summary of the changes, but for specific details regarding these changes, please ensure you are using the updated July 1, 2025 rule book, and view information in the DCDEE Moodle(Enroll if you haven’t yet).You will need to have an NCID - the same NCID that you use for the health & safety training, WORKS login, and/or the CBC Portal - to participate in Moodle training. If you do not have an NCID, use this link to get one: https://ncid.nc.gov/ncidsspr/. Rule training modules can be found in the same course as the previous Child Care Rule Rollout. If you are unfamiliar with the Child Care Rule Rollout within Moodle and how to navigate, please visit: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Learning-Resources/How-to-Navigate-Moodle. For assistance with Moodle, contact DCDEE_MOODLE_SUPPORT@dhhs.nc.gov. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility has decided to choose pathway 1 – Program Assessment Pathway. The program stated they plan to apply for rated license by March 1, 2026, due to their Special Provisional License expiring on April 8, 2026. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. Reminders: You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. For the latest information on childcare 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 at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns. 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: ratio. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0606 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/30/2025 Number Present: 93 Completed Date: 10/30/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 01:00 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 childcare requirements for an annual compliance visit. Shelia Morris- Dennis, Director, was present and available for consultation. The program currently operates with a special provisional license issued October 8, 2025. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhanced space. Child Care Consultant, Natalie Pond, assisted with the visit today. The last annual compliance visit was completed on November 14, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed July 7, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted March 18, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. Prior to the visit the 18-month compliance history score was 79%. Today Ms. Morris- Dennis and I discussed plans to ensure compliance in efforts to not only keep the children in a healthy and safe environment but to increase the compliance history score. Ms. Morris- Dennis plans to use the annual compliance monitoring checklist used today to daily/weekly spot checks to ensure compliance. we also discussed reaching out to Smart Start for additional support on file organization. Ms. Morris- Dennis was informed that if the compliance history score drops below 75% the program may be issued an administrative action. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and Little Sandpipers’ Child Learning Center, Inc. was listed as current- active. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules and current activity plans were available for review and were being followed. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials was observed in the classroom. Infants in Spaces 6 had routine care needs met such as napping routines and feedings or they engaged in free play. Infant feeding schedules and safe sleep checks were monitored and found to be in compliance. Toddlers in space 1 and space 5 did group art activities in preparation for Halloween. Two-year-old children in Space 3 were observed in outdoor free play. Two year old children in space 4 also participated in group art. Preschool children in spaces 3, 7a, and 7b participated in free play or finished breakfast that consisted of French toast sticks, tropical fruit, and milk. Activity areas consisted of language, manipulative toys, dramatic play, art, and blocks. Staff and Training Worksheets- There were twenty (20) staff members employed at this facility. There was one new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Health & Safety Training – All staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the NC Child Care Law on file. GS 110-102 707 Equipment and furnishings not meeting the requirements outlined in child care .0601(b) and (c) were not removed or made inaccessible. A chair in space 7a had three (3) sharp pointed screws exposed. .0601(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Leftover diaper cream was not returned to the parent or discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment in space 1. .0803(12) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed receipt of the safe sleep policy on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the operational policies on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Three (3) employees have not completed an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child 8 months of age did not have a medical exam on file. GS110-91(1) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. A child 8 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the discipline policy on file. .1804(c) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. A child 8 months of age did not have unique behaviors listed on their application. .0801(a)(1-7) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the smoking and tobacco restriction on file. .0604(j) 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. A staff member hired March 21, 2025, did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. She completed the training on October 22, 2025. .1102(g) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. A staff member did not complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 5 years of initially completing the course (2/9/2020). .1103(b) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma on file. .0608(b)(1-6) 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 November 13, 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: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@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 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance regarding violation cited: When no longer needed by the child, or when the child withdraws from the program, all medications should be returned to the child’s parent/guardian or disposed of after an attempt to reach parent/guardian within 72 hours of completion of treatment. Staff must pay close attention to expiration dates on permission forms. Today I suggested staff make a chart on medications and their expiration dates and post the inside of the cabinet for quick reference. Staff must check all furnishing and equipment daily and remove any broken furnishings and equipment to ensure children are cared for in a safe environment. Today we also discusses administration checking classrooms as well and immediately remove broken items. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding file organization. I suggested that you use the revised file checklists under “Provider Documents and Forms” on the DCDEE website to assist with organization and ensure all requirements are met. I also encouraged you to review the chart in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2318 for more information about records retention. Administrative Action Follow-Up: The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on July 31, 2025. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding staff/child ratios and incident reports. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes four (4) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 was monitored and found in compliance. Stipulation #2 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and grouping of children was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and groupings of children were received August 18, 2025, and approved on August 21, 2025, both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #3 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for incident reports was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for incident reports were received August 18, 2025, and approved on August 21, 2025, both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #4 – This stipulation was due by August 28, 2025. The documentation from the staff meeting was received on August 25, 2025. This stipulation is complete. All stipulations were monitored, and the facility demonstrated the implementations are working effectively. Other Information Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. Ms. Morris-Dennis has completed the training and has entered staff. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Should you need assistance with the portal or the training, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401and someone will assist you. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on July 25, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- No results available • Asbestos- No results available Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ 2025 Annual Childcare Immunization Report Memo-Download the 2025 Annual Childcare Immunization Report Memo The purpose of this memo is to notify childcare operators/Head Start directors and NC Pre-K classrooms of the 2025 annual immunization reporting requirements. North Carolina immunization law requires all schools providing Pre-K and all licensed childcare facilities (as defined in G.S. 110-86(3)) to file an annual immunization report on children aged newborn through preschool (G.S. 130A155(c)). This report is used to determine the number of children who meet state immunization requirements under 10A NCAC 41A.0401, ensuring that children in attendance at your childcare facility are protected against vaccine-preventable diseases. How to Submit your Report • The reporting portal is now open, and reports may be completed at any time prior to the due date but must be submitted electronically via this link. • Instructions and worksheets are available for downloading and may be used to collect data needed before entering your individual school information online. • Only one current report will be accepted per childcare facility, per report period. • All reports must be submitted electronically by midnight, November 15, 2025. • Reports will not be accepted after this date. • If your facility has no children enrolled or is closed, you are still required to submit a report. This ensures your facility is counted and not considered delinquent or missing. • For NC Pre-K and Head Start programs, include all children who attend full-time. • Do not include children already reported on the Annual Kindergarten Immunization Report. If you have additional questions about this report or are not able to access the internet to complete the report, email Immunization.Reports@dhhs.nc.gov or call 877-873-6247. July 2025 Rule Changes: Summary, Training Available The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is excited to share information about the July 2025 child care rule changes. The Child Care Commission adopted rules to support QRIS modernization. The new section, .3200, provides the standards for earning a two-though five-star-rated license. There are three pathways: program assessment, classroom and instructional quality, and accreditation and head start. To support the QRIS changes, additional rules were amended within the following sections: definitions, developmental day services, and NC Pre-Kindergarten services. Consultants will assist as you begin to review the changes, but please note some of the rule changes may not impact your facility. DCDEE has provided a summary of the changes, but for specific details regarding these changes, please ensure you are using the updated July 1, 2025 rule book, and view information in the DCDEE Moodle(Enroll if you haven’t yet).You will need to have an NCID - the same NCID that you use for the health & safety training, WORKS login, and/or the CBC Portal - to participate in Moodle training. If you do not have an NCID, use this link to get one: https://ncid.nc.gov/ncidsspr/. Rule training modules can be found in the same course as the previous Child Care Rule Rollout. If you are unfamiliar with the Child Care Rule Rollout within Moodle and how to navigate, please visit: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Learning-Resources/How-to-Navigate-Moodle. For assistance with Moodle, contact DCDEE_MOODLE_SUPPORT@dhhs.nc.gov. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility has decided to choose pathway 1 – Program Assessment Pathway. The program stated they plan to apply for rated license by March 1, 2026, due to their Special Provisional License expiring on April 8, 2026. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. Reminders: You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. For the latest information on childcare 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 at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns. 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 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/30/2025 Number Present: 93 Completed Date: 10/30/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 01:00 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 childcare requirements for an annual compliance visit. Shelia Morris- Dennis, Director, was present and available for consultation. The program currently operates with a special provisional license issued October 8, 2025. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhanced space. Child Care Consultant, Natalie Pond, assisted with the visit today. The last annual compliance visit was completed on November 14, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed July 7, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted March 18, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. Prior to the visit the 18-month compliance history score was 79%. Today Ms. Morris- Dennis and I discussed plans to ensure compliance in efforts to not only keep the children in a healthy and safe environment but to increase the compliance history score. Ms. Morris- Dennis plans to use the annual compliance monitoring checklist used today to daily/weekly spot checks to ensure compliance. we also discussed reaching out to Smart Start for additional support on file organization. Ms. Morris- Dennis was informed that if the compliance history score drops below 75% the program may be issued an administrative action. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and Little Sandpipers’ Child Learning Center, Inc. was listed as current- active. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules and current activity plans were available for review and were being followed. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials was observed in the classroom. Infants in Spaces 6 had routine care needs met such as napping routines and feedings or they engaged in free play. Infant feeding schedules and safe sleep checks were monitored and found to be in compliance. Toddlers in space 1 and space 5 did group art activities in preparation for Halloween. Two-year-old children in Space 3 were observed in outdoor free play. Two year old children in space 4 also participated in group art. Preschool children in spaces 3, 7a, and 7b participated in free play or finished breakfast that consisted of French toast sticks, tropical fruit, and milk. Activity areas consisted of language, manipulative toys, dramatic play, art, and blocks. Staff and Training Worksheets- There were twenty (20) staff members employed at this facility. There was one new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Health & Safety Training – All staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the NC Child Care Law on file. GS 110-102 707 Equipment and furnishings not meeting the requirements outlined in child care .0601(b) and (c) were not removed or made inaccessible. A chair in space 7a had three (3) sharp pointed screws exposed. .0601(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Leftover diaper cream was not returned to the parent or discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment in space 1. .0803(12) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed receipt of the safe sleep policy on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the operational policies on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Three (3) employees have not completed an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child 8 months of age did not have a medical exam on file. GS110-91(1) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. A child 8 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the discipline policy on file. .1804(c) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. A child 8 months of age did not have unique behaviors listed on their application. .0801(a)(1-7) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the smoking and tobacco restriction on file. .0604(j) 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. A staff member hired March 21, 2025, did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. She completed the training on October 22, 2025. .1102(g) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. A staff member did not complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 5 years of initially completing the course (2/9/2020). .1103(b) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma on file. .0608(b)(1-6) 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 November 13, 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: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@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 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance regarding violation cited: When no longer needed by the child, or when the child withdraws from the program, all medications should be returned to the child’s parent/guardian or disposed of after an attempt to reach parent/guardian within 72 hours of completion of treatment. Staff must pay close attention to expiration dates on permission forms. Today I suggested staff make a chart on medications and their expiration dates and post the inside of the cabinet for quick reference. Staff must check all furnishing and equipment daily and remove any broken furnishings and equipment to ensure children are cared for in a safe environment. Today we also discusses administration checking classrooms as well and immediately remove broken items. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding file organization. I suggested that you use the revised file checklists under “Provider Documents and Forms” on the DCDEE website to assist with organization and ensure all requirements are met. I also encouraged you to review the chart in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2318 for more information about records retention. Administrative Action Follow-Up: The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on July 31, 2025. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding staff/child ratios and incident reports. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes four (4) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 was monitored and found in compliance. Stipulation #2 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and grouping of children was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and groupings of children were received August 18, 2025, and approved on August 21, 2025, both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #3 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for incident reports was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for incident reports were received August 18, 2025, and approved on August 21, 2025, both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #4 – This stipulation was due by August 28, 2025. The documentation from the staff meeting was received on August 25, 2025. This stipulation is complete. All stipulations were monitored, and the facility demonstrated the implementations are working effectively. Other Information Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. Ms. Morris-Dennis has completed the training and has entered staff. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Should you need assistance with the portal or the training, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401and someone will assist you. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on July 25, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- No results available • Asbestos- No results available Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ 2025 Annual Childcare Immunization Report Memo-Download the 2025 Annual Childcare Immunization Report Memo The purpose of this memo is to notify childcare operators/Head Start directors and NC Pre-K classrooms of the 2025 annual immunization reporting requirements. North Carolina immunization law requires all schools providing Pre-K and all licensed childcare facilities (as defined in G.S. 110-86(3)) to file an annual immunization report on children aged newborn through preschool (G.S. 130A155(c)). This report is used to determine the number of children who meet state immunization requirements under 10A NCAC 41A.0401, ensuring that children in attendance at your childcare facility are protected against vaccine-preventable diseases. How to Submit your Report • The reporting portal is now open, and reports may be completed at any time prior to the due date but must be submitted electronically via this link. • Instructions and worksheets are available for downloading and may be used to collect data needed before entering your individual school information online. • Only one current report will be accepted per childcare facility, per report period. • All reports must be submitted electronically by midnight, November 15, 2025. • Reports will not be accepted after this date. • If your facility has no children enrolled or is closed, you are still required to submit a report. This ensures your facility is counted and not considered delinquent or missing. • For NC Pre-K and Head Start programs, include all children who attend full-time. • Do not include children already reported on the Annual Kindergarten Immunization Report. If you have additional questions about this report or are not able to access the internet to complete the report, email Immunization.Reports@dhhs.nc.gov or call 877-873-6247. July 2025 Rule Changes: Summary, Training Available The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is excited to share information about the July 2025 child care rule changes. The Child Care Commission adopted rules to support QRIS modernization. The new section, .3200, provides the standards for earning a two-though five-star-rated license. There are three pathways: program assessment, classroom and instructional quality, and accreditation and head start. To support the QRIS changes, additional rules were amended within the following sections: definitions, developmental day services, and NC Pre-Kindergarten services. Consultants will assist as you begin to review the changes, but please note some of the rule changes may not impact your facility. DCDEE has provided a summary of the changes, but for specific details regarding these changes, please ensure you are using the updated July 1, 2025 rule book, and view information in the DCDEE Moodle(Enroll if you haven’t yet).You will need to have an NCID - the same NCID that you use for the health & safety training, WORKS login, and/or the CBC Portal - to participate in Moodle training. If you do not have an NCID, use this link to get one: https://ncid.nc.gov/ncidsspr/. Rule training modules can be found in the same course as the previous Child Care Rule Rollout. If you are unfamiliar with the Child Care Rule Rollout within Moodle and how to navigate, please visit: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Learning-Resources/How-to-Navigate-Moodle. For assistance with Moodle, contact DCDEE_MOODLE_SUPPORT@dhhs.nc.gov. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility has decided to choose pathway 1 – Program Assessment Pathway. The program stated they plan to apply for rated license by March 1, 2026, due to their Special Provisional License expiring on April 8, 2026. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. Reminders: You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. For the latest information on childcare 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 at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns. 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 .2318 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/30/2025 Number Present: 93 Completed Date: 10/30/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 01:00 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 childcare requirements for an annual compliance visit. Shelia Morris- Dennis, Director, was present and available for consultation. The program currently operates with a special provisional license issued October 8, 2025. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhanced space. Child Care Consultant, Natalie Pond, assisted with the visit today. The last annual compliance visit was completed on November 14, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed July 7, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted March 18, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. Prior to the visit the 18-month compliance history score was 79%. Today Ms. Morris- Dennis and I discussed plans to ensure compliance in efforts to not only keep the children in a healthy and safe environment but to increase the compliance history score. Ms. Morris- Dennis plans to use the annual compliance monitoring checklist used today to daily/weekly spot checks to ensure compliance. we also discussed reaching out to Smart Start for additional support on file organization. Ms. Morris- Dennis was informed that if the compliance history score drops below 75% the program may be issued an administrative action. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and Little Sandpipers’ Child Learning Center, Inc. was listed as current- active. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules and current activity plans were available for review and were being followed. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials was observed in the classroom. Infants in Spaces 6 had routine care needs met such as napping routines and feedings or they engaged in free play. Infant feeding schedules and safe sleep checks were monitored and found to be in compliance. Toddlers in space 1 and space 5 did group art activities in preparation for Halloween. Two-year-old children in Space 3 were observed in outdoor free play. Two year old children in space 4 also participated in group art. Preschool children in spaces 3, 7a, and 7b participated in free play or finished breakfast that consisted of French toast sticks, tropical fruit, and milk. Activity areas consisted of language, manipulative toys, dramatic play, art, and blocks. Staff and Training Worksheets- There were twenty (20) staff members employed at this facility. There was one new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Health & Safety Training – All staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the NC Child Care Law on file. GS 110-102 707 Equipment and furnishings not meeting the requirements outlined in child care .0601(b) and (c) were not removed or made inaccessible. A chair in space 7a had three (3) sharp pointed screws exposed. .0601(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Leftover diaper cream was not returned to the parent or discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment in space 1. .0803(12) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed receipt of the safe sleep policy on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the operational policies on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Three (3) employees have not completed an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child 8 months of age did not have a medical exam on file. GS110-91(1) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. A child 8 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the discipline policy on file. .1804(c) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. A child 8 months of age did not have unique behaviors listed on their application. .0801(a)(1-7) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the smoking and tobacco restriction on file. .0604(j) 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. A staff member hired March 21, 2025, did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. She completed the training on October 22, 2025. .1102(g) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. A staff member did not complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 5 years of initially completing the course (2/9/2020). .1103(b) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma on file. .0608(b)(1-6) 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 November 13, 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: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@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 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance regarding violation cited: When no longer needed by the child, or when the child withdraws from the program, all medications should be returned to the child’s parent/guardian or disposed of after an attempt to reach parent/guardian within 72 hours of completion of treatment. Staff must pay close attention to expiration dates on permission forms. Today I suggested staff make a chart on medications and their expiration dates and post the inside of the cabinet for quick reference. Staff must check all furnishing and equipment daily and remove any broken furnishings and equipment to ensure children are cared for in a safe environment. Today we also discusses administration checking classrooms as well and immediately remove broken items. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding file organization. I suggested that you use the revised file checklists under “Provider Documents and Forms” on the DCDEE website to assist with organization and ensure all requirements are met. I also encouraged you to review the chart in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2318 for more information about records retention. Administrative Action Follow-Up: The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on July 31, 2025. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding staff/child ratios and incident reports. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes four (4) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 was monitored and found in compliance. Stipulation #2 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and grouping of children was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and groupings of children were received August 18, 2025, and approved on August 21, 2025, both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #3 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for incident reports was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for incident reports were received August 18, 2025, and approved on August 21, 2025, both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #4 – This stipulation was due by August 28, 2025. The documentation from the staff meeting was received on August 25, 2025. This stipulation is complete. All stipulations were monitored, and the facility demonstrated the implementations are working effectively. Other Information Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. Ms. Morris-Dennis has completed the training and has entered staff. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Should you need assistance with the portal or the training, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401and someone will assist you. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on July 25, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- No results available • Asbestos- No results available Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ 2025 Annual Childcare Immunization Report Memo-Download the 2025 Annual Childcare Immunization Report Memo The purpose of this memo is to notify childcare operators/Head Start directors and NC Pre-K classrooms of the 2025 annual immunization reporting requirements. North Carolina immunization law requires all schools providing Pre-K and all licensed childcare facilities (as defined in G.S. 110-86(3)) to file an annual immunization report on children aged newborn through preschool (G.S. 130A155(c)). This report is used to determine the number of children who meet state immunization requirements under 10A NCAC 41A.0401, ensuring that children in attendance at your childcare facility are protected against vaccine-preventable diseases. How to Submit your Report • The reporting portal is now open, and reports may be completed at any time prior to the due date but must be submitted electronically via this link. • Instructions and worksheets are available for downloading and may be used to collect data needed before entering your individual school information online. • Only one current report will be accepted per childcare facility, per report period. • All reports must be submitted electronically by midnight, November 15, 2025. • Reports will not be accepted after this date. • If your facility has no children enrolled or is closed, you are still required to submit a report. This ensures your facility is counted and not considered delinquent or missing. • For NC Pre-K and Head Start programs, include all children who attend full-time. • Do not include children already reported on the Annual Kindergarten Immunization Report. If you have additional questions about this report or are not able to access the internet to complete the report, email Immunization.Reports@dhhs.nc.gov or call 877-873-6247. July 2025 Rule Changes: Summary, Training Available The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is excited to share information about the July 2025 child care rule changes. The Child Care Commission adopted rules to support QRIS modernization. The new section, .3200, provides the standards for earning a two-though five-star-rated license. There are three pathways: program assessment, classroom and instructional quality, and accreditation and head start. To support the QRIS changes, additional rules were amended within the following sections: definitions, developmental day services, and NC Pre-Kindergarten services. Consultants will assist as you begin to review the changes, but please note some of the rule changes may not impact your facility. DCDEE has provided a summary of the changes, but for specific details regarding these changes, please ensure you are using the updated July 1, 2025 rule book, and view information in the DCDEE Moodle(Enroll if you haven’t yet).You will need to have an NCID - the same NCID that you use for the health & safety training, WORKS login, and/or the CBC Portal - to participate in Moodle training. If you do not have an NCID, use this link to get one: https://ncid.nc.gov/ncidsspr/. Rule training modules can be found in the same course as the previous Child Care Rule Rollout. If you are unfamiliar with the Child Care Rule Rollout within Moodle and how to navigate, please visit: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Learning-Resources/How-to-Navigate-Moodle. For assistance with Moodle, contact DCDEE_MOODLE_SUPPORT@dhhs.nc.gov. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility has decided to choose pathway 1 – Program Assessment Pathway. The program stated they plan to apply for rated license by March 1, 2026, due to their Special Provisional License expiring on April 8, 2026. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. Reminders: You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. For the latest information on childcare 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 at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns. 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. 110-86 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/30/2025 Number Present: 93 Completed Date: 10/30/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 01:00 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 childcare requirements for an annual compliance visit. Shelia Morris- Dennis, Director, was present and available for consultation. The program currently operates with a special provisional license issued October 8, 2025. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhanced space. Child Care Consultant, Natalie Pond, assisted with the visit today. The last annual compliance visit was completed on November 14, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed July 7, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted March 18, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. Prior to the visit the 18-month compliance history score was 79%. Today Ms. Morris- Dennis and I discussed plans to ensure compliance in efforts to not only keep the children in a healthy and safe environment but to increase the compliance history score. Ms. Morris- Dennis plans to use the annual compliance monitoring checklist used today to daily/weekly spot checks to ensure compliance. we also discussed reaching out to Smart Start for additional support on file organization. Ms. Morris- Dennis was informed that if the compliance history score drops below 75% the program may be issued an administrative action. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and Little Sandpipers’ Child Learning Center, Inc. was listed as current- active. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules and current activity plans were available for review and were being followed. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials was observed in the classroom. Infants in Spaces 6 had routine care needs met such as napping routines and feedings or they engaged in free play. Infant feeding schedules and safe sleep checks were monitored and found to be in compliance. Toddlers in space 1 and space 5 did group art activities in preparation for Halloween. Two-year-old children in Space 3 were observed in outdoor free play. Two year old children in space 4 also participated in group art. Preschool children in spaces 3, 7a, and 7b participated in free play or finished breakfast that consisted of French toast sticks, tropical fruit, and milk. Activity areas consisted of language, manipulative toys, dramatic play, art, and blocks. Staff and Training Worksheets- There were twenty (20) staff members employed at this facility. There was one new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Health & Safety Training – All staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the NC Child Care Law on file. GS 110-102 707 Equipment and furnishings not meeting the requirements outlined in child care .0601(b) and (c) were not removed or made inaccessible. A chair in space 7a had three (3) sharp pointed screws exposed. .0601(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Leftover diaper cream was not returned to the parent or discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment in space 1. .0803(12) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed receipt of the safe sleep policy on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the operational policies on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Three (3) employees have not completed an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child 8 months of age did not have a medical exam on file. GS110-91(1) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. A child 8 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the discipline policy on file. .1804(c) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. A child 8 months of age did not have unique behaviors listed on their application. .0801(a)(1-7) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the smoking and tobacco restriction on file. .0604(j) 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. A staff member hired March 21, 2025, did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. She completed the training on October 22, 2025. .1102(g) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. A staff member did not complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 5 years of initially completing the course (2/9/2020). .1103(b) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma on file. .0608(b)(1-6) 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 November 13, 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: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@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 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance regarding violation cited: When no longer needed by the child, or when the child withdraws from the program, all medications should be returned to the child’s parent/guardian or disposed of after an attempt to reach parent/guardian within 72 hours of completion of treatment. Staff must pay close attention to expiration dates on permission forms. Today I suggested staff make a chart on medications and their expiration dates and post the inside of the cabinet for quick reference. Staff must check all furnishing and equipment daily and remove any broken furnishings and equipment to ensure children are cared for in a safe environment. Today we also discusses administration checking classrooms as well and immediately remove broken items. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding file organization. I suggested that you use the revised file checklists under “Provider Documents and Forms” on the DCDEE website to assist with organization and ensure all requirements are met. I also encouraged you to review the chart in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2318 for more information about records retention. Administrative Action Follow-Up: The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on July 31, 2025. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding staff/child ratios and incident reports. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes four (4) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 was monitored and found in compliance. Stipulation #2 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and grouping of children was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and groupings of children were received August 18, 2025, and approved on August 21, 2025, both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #3 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for incident reports was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for incident reports were received August 18, 2025, and approved on August 21, 2025, both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #4 – This stipulation was due by August 28, 2025. The documentation from the staff meeting was received on August 25, 2025. This stipulation is complete. All stipulations were monitored, and the facility demonstrated the implementations are working effectively. Other Information Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. Ms. Morris-Dennis has completed the training and has entered staff. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Should you need assistance with the portal or the training, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401and someone will assist you. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on July 25, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- No results available • Asbestos- No results available Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ 2025 Annual Childcare Immunization Report Memo-Download the 2025 Annual Childcare Immunization Report Memo The purpose of this memo is to notify childcare operators/Head Start directors and NC Pre-K classrooms of the 2025 annual immunization reporting requirements. North Carolina immunization law requires all schools providing Pre-K and all licensed childcare facilities (as defined in G.S. 110-86(3)) to file an annual immunization report on children aged newborn through preschool (G.S. 130A155(c)). This report is used to determine the number of children who meet state immunization requirements under 10A NCAC 41A.0401, ensuring that children in attendance at your childcare facility are protected against vaccine-preventable diseases. How to Submit your Report • The reporting portal is now open, and reports may be completed at any time prior to the due date but must be submitted electronically via this link. • Instructions and worksheets are available for downloading and may be used to collect data needed before entering your individual school information online. • Only one current report will be accepted per childcare facility, per report period. • All reports must be submitted electronically by midnight, November 15, 2025. • Reports will not be accepted after this date. • If your facility has no children enrolled or is closed, you are still required to submit a report. This ensures your facility is counted and not considered delinquent or missing. • For NC Pre-K and Head Start programs, include all children who attend full-time. • Do not include children already reported on the Annual Kindergarten Immunization Report. If you have additional questions about this report or are not able to access the internet to complete the report, email Immunization.Reports@dhhs.nc.gov or call 877-873-6247. July 2025 Rule Changes: Summary, Training Available The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is excited to share information about the July 2025 child care rule changes. The Child Care Commission adopted rules to support QRIS modernization. The new section, .3200, provides the standards for earning a two-though five-star-rated license. There are three pathways: program assessment, classroom and instructional quality, and accreditation and head start. To support the QRIS changes, additional rules were amended within the following sections: definitions, developmental day services, and NC Pre-Kindergarten services. Consultants will assist as you begin to review the changes, but please note some of the rule changes may not impact your facility. DCDEE has provided a summary of the changes, but for specific details regarding these changes, please ensure you are using the updated July 1, 2025 rule book, and view information in the DCDEE Moodle(Enroll if you haven’t yet).You will need to have an NCID - the same NCID that you use for the health & safety training, WORKS login, and/or the CBC Portal - to participate in Moodle training. If you do not have an NCID, use this link to get one: https://ncid.nc.gov/ncidsspr/. Rule training modules can be found in the same course as the previous Child Care Rule Rollout. If you are unfamiliar with the Child Care Rule Rollout within Moodle and how to navigate, please visit: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Learning-Resources/How-to-Navigate-Moodle. For assistance with Moodle, contact DCDEE_MOODLE_SUPPORT@dhhs.nc.gov. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility has decided to choose pathway 1 – Program Assessment Pathway. The program stated they plan to apply for rated license by March 1, 2026, due to their Special Provisional License expiring on April 8, 2026. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. Reminders: You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. For the latest information on childcare 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 at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns. 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 110-102 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/30/2025 Number Present: 93 Completed Date: 10/30/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 01:00 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 childcare requirements for an annual compliance visit. Shelia Morris- Dennis, Director, was present and available for consultation. The program currently operates with a special provisional license issued October 8, 2025. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhanced space. Child Care Consultant, Natalie Pond, assisted with the visit today. The last annual compliance visit was completed on November 14, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed July 7, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted March 18, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. Prior to the visit the 18-month compliance history score was 79%. Today Ms. Morris- Dennis and I discussed plans to ensure compliance in efforts to not only keep the children in a healthy and safe environment but to increase the compliance history score. Ms. Morris- Dennis plans to use the annual compliance monitoring checklist used today to daily/weekly spot checks to ensure compliance. we also discussed reaching out to Smart Start for additional support on file organization. Ms. Morris- Dennis was informed that if the compliance history score drops below 75% the program may be issued an administrative action. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and Little Sandpipers’ Child Learning Center, Inc. was listed as current- active. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules and current activity plans were available for review and were being followed. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials was observed in the classroom. Infants in Spaces 6 had routine care needs met such as napping routines and feedings or they engaged in free play. Infant feeding schedules and safe sleep checks were monitored and found to be in compliance. Toddlers in space 1 and space 5 did group art activities in preparation for Halloween. Two-year-old children in Space 3 were observed in outdoor free play. Two year old children in space 4 also participated in group art. Preschool children in spaces 3, 7a, and 7b participated in free play or finished breakfast that consisted of French toast sticks, tropical fruit, and milk. Activity areas consisted of language, manipulative toys, dramatic play, art, and blocks. Staff and Training Worksheets- There were twenty (20) staff members employed at this facility. There was one new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Health & Safety Training – All staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the NC Child Care Law on file. GS 110-102 707 Equipment and furnishings not meeting the requirements outlined in child care .0601(b) and (c) were not removed or made inaccessible. A chair in space 7a had three (3) sharp pointed screws exposed. .0601(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Leftover diaper cream was not returned to the parent or discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment in space 1. .0803(12) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed receipt of the safe sleep policy on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the operational policies on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Three (3) employees have not completed an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child 8 months of age did not have a medical exam on file. GS110-91(1) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. A child 8 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the discipline policy on file. .1804(c) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. A child 8 months of age did not have unique behaviors listed on their application. .0801(a)(1-7) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the smoking and tobacco restriction on file. .0604(j) 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. A staff member hired March 21, 2025, did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. She completed the training on October 22, 2025. .1102(g) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. A staff member did not complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 5 years of initially completing the course (2/9/2020). .1103(b) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma on file. .0608(b)(1-6) 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 November 13, 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: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@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 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance regarding violation cited: When no longer needed by the child, or when the child withdraws from the program, all medications should be returned to the child’s parent/guardian or disposed of after an attempt to reach parent/guardian within 72 hours of completion of treatment. Staff must pay close attention to expiration dates on permission forms. Today I suggested staff make a chart on medications and their expiration dates and post the inside of the cabinet for quick reference. Staff must check all furnishing and equipment daily and remove any broken furnishings and equipment to ensure children are cared for in a safe environment. Today we also discusses administration checking classrooms as well and immediately remove broken items. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding file organization. I suggested that you use the revised file checklists under “Provider Documents and Forms” on the DCDEE website to assist with organization and ensure all requirements are met. I also encouraged you to review the chart in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2318 for more information about records retention. Administrative Action Follow-Up: The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on July 31, 2025. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding staff/child ratios and incident reports. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes four (4) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 was monitored and found in compliance. Stipulation #2 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and grouping of children was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and groupings of children were received August 18, 2025, and approved on August 21, 2025, both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #3 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for incident reports was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for incident reports were received August 18, 2025, and approved on August 21, 2025, both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #4 – This stipulation was due by August 28, 2025. The documentation from the staff meeting was received on August 25, 2025. This stipulation is complete. All stipulations were monitored, and the facility demonstrated the implementations are working effectively. Other Information Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. Ms. Morris-Dennis has completed the training and has entered staff. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Should you need assistance with the portal or the training, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401and someone will assist you. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on July 25, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- No results available • Asbestos- No results available Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ 2025 Annual Childcare Immunization Report Memo-Download the 2025 Annual Childcare Immunization Report Memo The purpose of this memo is to notify childcare operators/Head Start directors and NC Pre-K classrooms of the 2025 annual immunization reporting requirements. North Carolina immunization law requires all schools providing Pre-K and all licensed childcare facilities (as defined in G.S. 110-86(3)) to file an annual immunization report on children aged newborn through preschool (G.S. 130A155(c)). This report is used to determine the number of children who meet state immunization requirements under 10A NCAC 41A.0401, ensuring that children in attendance at your childcare facility are protected against vaccine-preventable diseases. How to Submit your Report • The reporting portal is now open, and reports may be completed at any time prior to the due date but must be submitted electronically via this link. • Instructions and worksheets are available for downloading and may be used to collect data needed before entering your individual school information online. • Only one current report will be accepted per childcare facility, per report period. • All reports must be submitted electronically by midnight, November 15, 2025. • Reports will not be accepted after this date. • If your facility has no children enrolled or is closed, you are still required to submit a report. This ensures your facility is counted and not considered delinquent or missing. • For NC Pre-K and Head Start programs, include all children who attend full-time. • Do not include children already reported on the Annual Kindergarten Immunization Report. If you have additional questions about this report or are not able to access the internet to complete the report, email Immunization.Reports@dhhs.nc.gov or call 877-873-6247. July 2025 Rule Changes: Summary, Training Available The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is excited to share information about the July 2025 child care rule changes. The Child Care Commission adopted rules to support QRIS modernization. The new section, .3200, provides the standards for earning a two-though five-star-rated license. There are three pathways: program assessment, classroom and instructional quality, and accreditation and head start. To support the QRIS changes, additional rules were amended within the following sections: definitions, developmental day services, and NC Pre-Kindergarten services. Consultants will assist as you begin to review the changes, but please note some of the rule changes may not impact your facility. DCDEE has provided a summary of the changes, but for specific details regarding these changes, please ensure you are using the updated July 1, 2025 rule book, and view information in the DCDEE Moodle(Enroll if you haven’t yet).You will need to have an NCID - the same NCID that you use for the health & safety training, WORKS login, and/or the CBC Portal - to participate in Moodle training. If you do not have an NCID, use this link to get one: https://ncid.nc.gov/ncidsspr/. Rule training modules can be found in the same course as the previous Child Care Rule Rollout. If you are unfamiliar with the Child Care Rule Rollout within Moodle and how to navigate, please visit: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Learning-Resources/How-to-Navigate-Moodle. For assistance with Moodle, contact DCDEE_MOODLE_SUPPORT@dhhs.nc.gov. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility has decided to choose pathway 1 – Program Assessment Pathway. The program stated they plan to apply for rated license by March 1, 2026, due to their Special Provisional License expiring on April 8, 2026. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. Reminders: You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. For the latest information on childcare 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 at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns. 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: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/30/2025 Number Present: 93 Completed Date: 10/30/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 01:00 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 childcare requirements for an annual compliance visit. Shelia Morris- Dennis, Director, was present and available for consultation. The program currently operates with a special provisional license issued October 8, 2025. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhanced space. Child Care Consultant, Natalie Pond, assisted with the visit today. The last annual compliance visit was completed on November 14, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed July 7, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted March 18, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. Prior to the visit the 18-month compliance history score was 79%. Today Ms. Morris- Dennis and I discussed plans to ensure compliance in efforts to not only keep the children in a healthy and safe environment but to increase the compliance history score. Ms. Morris- Dennis plans to use the annual compliance monitoring checklist used today to daily/weekly spot checks to ensure compliance. we also discussed reaching out to Smart Start for additional support on file organization. Ms. Morris- Dennis was informed that if the compliance history score drops below 75% the program may be issued an administrative action. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and Little Sandpipers’ Child Learning Center, Inc. was listed as current- active. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules and current activity plans were available for review and were being followed. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials was observed in the classroom. Infants in Spaces 6 had routine care needs met such as napping routines and feedings or they engaged in free play. Infant feeding schedules and safe sleep checks were monitored and found to be in compliance. Toddlers in space 1 and space 5 did group art activities in preparation for Halloween. Two-year-old children in Space 3 were observed in outdoor free play. Two year old children in space 4 also participated in group art. Preschool children in spaces 3, 7a, and 7b participated in free play or finished breakfast that consisted of French toast sticks, tropical fruit, and milk. Activity areas consisted of language, manipulative toys, dramatic play, art, and blocks. Staff and Training Worksheets- There were twenty (20) staff members employed at this facility. There was one new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Health & Safety Training – All staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the NC Child Care Law on file. GS 110-102 707 Equipment and furnishings not meeting the requirements outlined in child care .0601(b) and (c) were not removed or made inaccessible. A chair in space 7a had three (3) sharp pointed screws exposed. .0601(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Leftover diaper cream was not returned to the parent or discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment in space 1. .0803(12) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed receipt of the safe sleep policy on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the operational policies on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Three (3) employees have not completed an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child 8 months of age did not have a medical exam on file. GS110-91(1) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. A child 8 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the discipline policy on file. .1804(c) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. A child 8 months of age did not have unique behaviors listed on their application. .0801(a)(1-7) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the smoking and tobacco restriction on file. .0604(j) 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. A staff member hired March 21, 2025, did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. She completed the training on October 22, 2025. .1102(g) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. A staff member did not complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 5 years of initially completing the course (2/9/2020). .1103(b) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma on file. .0608(b)(1-6) 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 November 13, 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: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@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 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance regarding violation cited: When no longer needed by the child, or when the child withdraws from the program, all medications should be returned to the child’s parent/guardian or disposed of after an attempt to reach parent/guardian within 72 hours of completion of treatment. Staff must pay close attention to expiration dates on permission forms. Today I suggested staff make a chart on medications and their expiration dates and post the inside of the cabinet for quick reference. Staff must check all furnishing and equipment daily and remove any broken furnishings and equipment to ensure children are cared for in a safe environment. Today we also discusses administration checking classrooms as well and immediately remove broken items. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding file organization. I suggested that you use the revised file checklists under “Provider Documents and Forms” on the DCDEE website to assist with organization and ensure all requirements are met. I also encouraged you to review the chart in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2318 for more information about records retention. Administrative Action Follow-Up: The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on July 31, 2025. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding staff/child ratios and incident reports. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes four (4) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 was monitored and found in compliance. Stipulation #2 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and grouping of children was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and groupings of children were received August 18, 2025, and approved on August 21, 2025, both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #3 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for incident reports was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for incident reports were received August 18, 2025, and approved on August 21, 2025, both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #4 – This stipulation was due by August 28, 2025. The documentation from the staff meeting was received on August 25, 2025. This stipulation is complete. All stipulations were monitored, and the facility demonstrated the implementations are working effectively. Other Information Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. Ms. Morris-Dennis has completed the training and has entered staff. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Should you need assistance with the portal or the training, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401and someone will assist you. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on July 25, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- No results available • Asbestos- No results available Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ 2025 Annual Childcare Immunization Report Memo-Download the 2025 Annual Childcare Immunization Report Memo The purpose of this memo is to notify childcare operators/Head Start directors and NC Pre-K classrooms of the 2025 annual immunization reporting requirements. North Carolina immunization law requires all schools providing Pre-K and all licensed childcare facilities (as defined in G.S. 110-86(3)) to file an annual immunization report on children aged newborn through preschool (G.S. 130A155(c)). This report is used to determine the number of children who meet state immunization requirements under 10A NCAC 41A.0401, ensuring that children in attendance at your childcare facility are protected against vaccine-preventable diseases. How to Submit your Report • The reporting portal is now open, and reports may be completed at any time prior to the due date but must be submitted electronically via this link. • Instructions and worksheets are available for downloading and may be used to collect data needed before entering your individual school information online. • Only one current report will be accepted per childcare facility, per report period. • All reports must be submitted electronically by midnight, November 15, 2025. • Reports will not be accepted after this date. • If your facility has no children enrolled or is closed, you are still required to submit a report. This ensures your facility is counted and not considered delinquent or missing. • For NC Pre-K and Head Start programs, include all children who attend full-time. • Do not include children already reported on the Annual Kindergarten Immunization Report. If you have additional questions about this report or are not able to access the internet to complete the report, email Immunization.Reports@dhhs.nc.gov or call 877-873-6247. July 2025 Rule Changes: Summary, Training Available The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is excited to share information about the July 2025 child care rule changes. The Child Care Commission adopted rules to support QRIS modernization. The new section, .3200, provides the standards for earning a two-though five-star-rated license. There are three pathways: program assessment, classroom and instructional quality, and accreditation and head start. To support the QRIS changes, additional rules were amended within the following sections: definitions, developmental day services, and NC Pre-Kindergarten services. Consultants will assist as you begin to review the changes, but please note some of the rule changes may not impact your facility. DCDEE has provided a summary of the changes, but for specific details regarding these changes, please ensure you are using the updated July 1, 2025 rule book, and view information in the DCDEE Moodle(Enroll if you haven’t yet).You will need to have an NCID - the same NCID that you use for the health & safety training, WORKS login, and/or the CBC Portal - to participate in Moodle training. If you do not have an NCID, use this link to get one: https://ncid.nc.gov/ncidsspr/. Rule training modules can be found in the same course as the previous Child Care Rule Rollout. If you are unfamiliar with the Child Care Rule Rollout within Moodle and how to navigate, please visit: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Learning-Resources/How-to-Navigate-Moodle. For assistance with Moodle, contact DCDEE_MOODLE_SUPPORT@dhhs.nc.gov. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility has decided to choose pathway 1 – Program Assessment Pathway. The program stated they plan to apply for rated license by March 1, 2026, due to their Special Provisional License expiring on April 8, 2026. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. Reminders: You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. For the latest information on childcare 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 at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns. 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: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/30/2025 Number Present: 93 Completed Date: 10/30/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 01:00 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 childcare requirements for an annual compliance visit. Shelia Morris- Dennis, Director, was present and available for consultation. The program currently operates with a special provisional license issued October 8, 2025. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhanced space. Child Care Consultant, Natalie Pond, assisted with the visit today. The last annual compliance visit was completed on November 14, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed July 7, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted March 18, 2025, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. Prior to the visit the 18-month compliance history score was 79%. Today Ms. Morris- Dennis and I discussed plans to ensure compliance in efforts to not only keep the children in a healthy and safe environment but to increase the compliance history score. Ms. Morris- Dennis plans to use the annual compliance monitoring checklist used today to daily/weekly spot checks to ensure compliance. we also discussed reaching out to Smart Start for additional support on file organization. Ms. Morris- Dennis was informed that if the compliance history score drops below 75% the program may be issued an administrative action. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today, and Little Sandpipers’ Child Learning Center, Inc. was listed as current- active. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules and current activity plans were available for review and were being followed. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials was observed in the classroom. Infants in Spaces 6 had routine care needs met such as napping routines and feedings or they engaged in free play. Infant feeding schedules and safe sleep checks were monitored and found to be in compliance. Toddlers in space 1 and space 5 did group art activities in preparation for Halloween. Two-year-old children in Space 3 were observed in outdoor free play. Two year old children in space 4 also participated in group art. Preschool children in spaces 3, 7a, and 7b participated in free play or finished breakfast that consisted of French toast sticks, tropical fruit, and milk. Activity areas consisted of language, manipulative toys, dramatic play, art, and blocks. Staff and Training Worksheets- There were twenty (20) staff members employed at this facility. There was one new staff; all new staff and a percentage of veteran staff’s files were reviewed. Health & Safety Training – All staff members who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety training as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. New staff are in the process of completing these training courses. Health and safety trainings are required to be completed during the first year of employment and renewed every 5 years. Remember, the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training must be taken at www.preventchildabusenc.org, within the first 90 days of employment. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the NC Child Care Law on file. GS 110-102 707 Equipment and furnishings not meeting the requirements outlined in child care .0601(b) and (c) were not removed or made inaccessible. A chair in space 7a had three (3) sharp pointed screws exposed. .0601(d) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Leftover diaper cream was not returned to the parent or discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment in space 1. .0803(12) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed receipt of the safe sleep policy on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the operational policies on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. Three (3) employees have not completed an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child 8 months of age did not have a medical exam on file. GS110-91(1) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. A child 8 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the discipline policy on file. .1804(c) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. A child 8 months of age did not have unique behaviors listed on their application. .0801(a)(1-7) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of receipt of the smoking and tobacco restriction on file. .0604(j) 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. A staff member hired March 21, 2025, did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. She completed the training on October 22, 2025. .1102(g) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. A staff member did not complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 5 years of initially completing the course (2/9/2020). .1103(b) 1908 A child's file did not have a statement with parent signature acknowledging receipt and explanation of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy and/or the acknowledgement did not have all the required information. A child 10 months of age did not have a signed statement of the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma on file. .0608(b)(1-6) 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 November 13, 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: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@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 Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you meet all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Technical Assistance regarding violation cited: When no longer needed by the child, or when the child withdraws from the program, all medications should be returned to the child’s parent/guardian or disposed of after an attempt to reach parent/guardian within 72 hours of completion of treatment. Staff must pay close attention to expiration dates on permission forms. Today I suggested staff make a chart on medications and their expiration dates and post the inside of the cabinet for quick reference. Staff must check all furnishing and equipment daily and remove any broken furnishings and equipment to ensure children are cared for in a safe environment. Today we also discusses administration checking classrooms as well and immediately remove broken items. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding file organization. I suggested that you use the revised file checklists under “Provider Documents and Forms” on the DCDEE website to assist with organization and ensure all requirements are met. I also encouraged you to review the chart in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2318 for more information about records retention. Administrative Action Follow-Up: The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on July 31, 2025. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding staff/child ratios and incident reports. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes four (4) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 was monitored and found in compliance. Stipulation #2 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and grouping of children was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and groupings of children were received August 18, 2025, and approved on August 21, 2025, both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #3 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for incident reports was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for incident reports were received August 18, 2025, and approved on August 21, 2025, both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #4 – This stipulation was due by August 28, 2025. The documentation from the staff meeting was received on August 25, 2025. This stipulation is complete. All stipulations were monitored, and the facility demonstrated the implementations are working effectively. Other Information Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. Ms. Morris-Dennis has completed the training and has entered staff. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Should you need assistance with the portal or the training, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401and someone will assist you. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS - Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on July 25, 2024. Water testing must be completed every three (3) years. • Lead-Based Paint- No results available • Asbestos- No results available Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ 2025 Annual Childcare Immunization Report Memo-Download the 2025 Annual Childcare Immunization Report Memo The purpose of this memo is to notify childcare operators/Head Start directors and NC Pre-K classrooms of the 2025 annual immunization reporting requirements. North Carolina immunization law requires all schools providing Pre-K and all licensed childcare facilities (as defined in G.S. 110-86(3)) to file an annual immunization report on children aged newborn through preschool (G.S. 130A155(c)). This report is used to determine the number of children who meet state immunization requirements under 10A NCAC 41A.0401, ensuring that children in attendance at your childcare facility are protected against vaccine-preventable diseases. How to Submit your Report • The reporting portal is now open, and reports may be completed at any time prior to the due date but must be submitted electronically via this link. • Instructions and worksheets are available for downloading and may be used to collect data needed before entering your individual school information online. • Only one current report will be accepted per childcare facility, per report period. • All reports must be submitted electronically by midnight, November 15, 2025. • Reports will not be accepted after this date. • If your facility has no children enrolled or is closed, you are still required to submit a report. This ensures your facility is counted and not considered delinquent or missing. • For NC Pre-K and Head Start programs, include all children who attend full-time. • Do not include children already reported on the Annual Kindergarten Immunization Report. If you have additional questions about this report or are not able to access the internet to complete the report, email Immunization.Reports@dhhs.nc.gov or call 877-873-6247. July 2025 Rule Changes: Summary, Training Available The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) is excited to share information about the July 2025 child care rule changes. The Child Care Commission adopted rules to support QRIS modernization. The new section, .3200, provides the standards for earning a two-though five-star-rated license. There are three pathways: program assessment, classroom and instructional quality, and accreditation and head start. To support the QRIS changes, additional rules were amended within the following sections: definitions, developmental day services, and NC Pre-Kindergarten services. Consultants will assist as you begin to review the changes, but please note some of the rule changes may not impact your facility. DCDEE has provided a summary of the changes, but for specific details regarding these changes, please ensure you are using the updated July 1, 2025 rule book, and view information in the DCDEE Moodle(Enroll if you haven’t yet).You will need to have an NCID - the same NCID that you use for the health & safety training, WORKS login, and/or the CBC Portal - to participate in Moodle training. If you do not have an NCID, use this link to get one: https://ncid.nc.gov/ncidsspr/. Rule training modules can be found in the same course as the previous Child Care Rule Rollout. If you are unfamiliar with the Child Care Rule Rollout within Moodle and how to navigate, please visit: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Learning-Resources/How-to-Navigate-Moodle. For assistance with Moodle, contact DCDEE_MOODLE_SUPPORT@dhhs.nc.gov. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility has decided to choose pathway 1 – Program Assessment Pathway. The program stated they plan to apply for rated license by March 1, 2026, due to their Special Provisional License expiring on April 8, 2026. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. Reminders: You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. For the latest information on childcare 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 at April.Lester@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-0954 with any questions or concerns. 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 .0713 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/17/2025 Number Present: 92 Completed Date: 9/17/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit, including the Corrective Action Plan included in the Written Warning issued by the DCDEE to this facility on July 31, 2025. Child Care Consultant, Natalie Pond, assisted with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point for the child care administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care experience in a licensed program that can be verified. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 81%. Shelia Morris, Director, assisted with the visit today. One hundred thirty (134) children are enrolled and ninety-one (92) children ages birth through five (5) years of age were observed in spaces 1-4 and 6-7b. Children participated in free play indoors, and engaged in personal care routines such as toileting and meals. Lunch for today consisted of fish sticks, tater tots, mandarin oranges, and milk. Adequate handwashing was observed. Adequate supervision was monitored and found in compliance. Other items monitored today included: CPR, first aid, special trainings, storage of hazardous substances, storage of medication, adequate/approved space, staff records, program records, license posted, and permit restrictions. The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on July 31, 2025. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding staff/child ratios and incident reports. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes four (4) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 was monitored and a violation is listed below. Stipulation #2 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and grouping of children was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and groupings of children was received August 18, 2025 and approved on August 21, 2025 both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #3 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for incident reports was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for incident reports was received August 18, 2025 and approved on August 21, 2025 both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #4 – This stipulation was due by August 28, 2025. The documentation from the staff meeting was received on August 25, 2025. This stipulation is complete. All stipulations will be monitored routinely until the facility demonstrates the implementations are working effectively. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 318 Children between 12 and 24 months of age were grouped with children 3 years of age or older. In space 4, children ages 20 months through 36 months of age were grouped together. 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space 4, sixteen (16) children ages 20 months through 36 months of age were present with two staff members. Staff/child ratios for the youngest child (1 year of age) are 1:6 or 2:12. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 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 October 1, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. 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. 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. Technical Assistance: During the visit we reviewed staff/child ratio requirements including a rule which was reinstated in February 2021 regarding combining children between 12 and 24 months of age with older children. I reminded you that Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6), which states that children between the ages of 12 months and 24 months shall not be grouped with older children unless all children in the group are less than three years of age. I suggested you review section .0713 in detail with all staff to ensure their knowledge and understanding of this requirement. Maintaining staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes is also essential to the health and safety of children. If children are combined with similar age groups, such as in the early morning or later evening hours, the staff/child ratio and maximum group size for the youngest child in the group must be maintained. Staff must be aware of children’s ages and how many children are in each group at all times. Today I suggested that staff keep a running list of children and their ages during transition times to ensure they are maintaining ratios and can ask for assistance if needed. Reminders: One (1) staff member, whose first day was September 2nd, 2025, has not received all of the required two (2)-week orientation due to absence for extended illness beginning her first week. Upon this employee’s return, you must complete the required orientation before she can return to the classroom. You can refer to the File Checklist – Staff, which can be found on the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Provider-Documents-and-Forms, to insure that staff files are completed within the required time frames. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@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 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/17/2025 Number Present: 92 Completed Date: 9/17/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit, including the Corrective Action Plan included in the Written Warning issued by the DCDEE to this facility on July 31, 2025. Child Care Consultant, Natalie Pond, assisted with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point for the child care administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care experience in a licensed program that can be verified. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 81%. Shelia Morris, Director, assisted with the visit today. One hundred thirty (134) children are enrolled and ninety-one (92) children ages birth through five (5) years of age were observed in spaces 1-4 and 6-7b. Children participated in free play indoors, and engaged in personal care routines such as toileting and meals. Lunch for today consisted of fish sticks, tater tots, mandarin oranges, and milk. Adequate handwashing was observed. Adequate supervision was monitored and found in compliance. Other items monitored today included: CPR, first aid, special trainings, storage of hazardous substances, storage of medication, adequate/approved space, staff records, program records, license posted, and permit restrictions. The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on July 31, 2025. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding staff/child ratios and incident reports. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes four (4) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 was monitored and a violation is listed below. Stipulation #2 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and grouping of children was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and groupings of children was received August 18, 2025 and approved on August 21, 2025 both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #3 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for incident reports was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for incident reports was received August 18, 2025 and approved on August 21, 2025 both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #4 – This stipulation was due by August 28, 2025. The documentation from the staff meeting was received on August 25, 2025. This stipulation is complete. All stipulations will be monitored routinely until the facility demonstrates the implementations are working effectively. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 318 Children between 12 and 24 months of age were grouped with children 3 years of age or older. In space 4, children ages 20 months through 36 months of age were grouped together. 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space 4, sixteen (16) children ages 20 months through 36 months of age were present with two staff members. Staff/child ratios for the youngest child (1 year of age) are 1:6 or 2:12. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 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 October 1, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. 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. 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. Technical Assistance: During the visit we reviewed staff/child ratio requirements including a rule which was reinstated in February 2021 regarding combining children between 12 and 24 months of age with older children. I reminded you that Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6), which states that children between the ages of 12 months and 24 months shall not be grouped with older children unless all children in the group are less than three years of age. I suggested you review section .0713 in detail with all staff to ensure their knowledge and understanding of this requirement. Maintaining staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes is also essential to the health and safety of children. If children are combined with similar age groups, such as in the early morning or later evening hours, the staff/child ratio and maximum group size for the youngest child in the group must be maintained. Staff must be aware of children’s ages and how many children are in each group at all times. Today I suggested that staff keep a running list of children and their ages during transition times to ensure they are maintaining ratios and can ask for assistance if needed. Reminders: One (1) staff member, whose first day was September 2nd, 2025, has not received all of the required two (2)-week orientation due to absence for extended illness beginning her first week. Upon this employee’s return, you must complete the required orientation before she can return to the classroom. You can refer to the File Checklist – Staff, which can be found on the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Provider-Documents-and-Forms, to insure that staff files are completed within the required time frames. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@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: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/17/2025 Number Present: 92 Completed Date: 9/17/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit, including the Corrective Action Plan included in the Written Warning issued by the DCDEE to this facility on July 31, 2025. Child Care Consultant, Natalie Pond, assisted with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point for the child care administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care experience in a licensed program that can be verified. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 81%. Shelia Morris, Director, assisted with the visit today. One hundred thirty (134) children are enrolled and ninety-one (92) children ages birth through five (5) years of age were observed in spaces 1-4 and 6-7b. Children participated in free play indoors, and engaged in personal care routines such as toileting and meals. Lunch for today consisted of fish sticks, tater tots, mandarin oranges, and milk. Adequate handwashing was observed. Adequate supervision was monitored and found in compliance. Other items monitored today included: CPR, first aid, special trainings, storage of hazardous substances, storage of medication, adequate/approved space, staff records, program records, license posted, and permit restrictions. The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on July 31, 2025. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding staff/child ratios and incident reports. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes four (4) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 was monitored and a violation is listed below. Stipulation #2 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and grouping of children was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and groupings of children was received August 18, 2025 and approved on August 21, 2025 both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #3 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for incident reports was received on August 13, 2025. The final written policies and procedures for incident reports was received August 18, 2025 and approved on August 21, 2025 both orally and in writing. This stipulation is complete. Stipulation #4 – This stipulation was due by August 28, 2025. The documentation from the staff meeting was received on August 25, 2025. This stipulation is complete. All stipulations will be monitored routinely until the facility demonstrates the implementations are working effectively. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 318 Children between 12 and 24 months of age were grouped with children 3 years of age or older. In space 4, children ages 20 months through 36 months of age were grouped together. 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space 4, sixteen (16) children ages 20 months through 36 months of age were present with two staff members. Staff/child ratios for the youngest child (1 year of age) are 1:6 or 2:12. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 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 October 1, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. 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. 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. Technical Assistance: During the visit we reviewed staff/child ratio requirements including a rule which was reinstated in February 2021 regarding combining children between 12 and 24 months of age with older children. I reminded you that Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6), which states that children between the ages of 12 months and 24 months shall not be grouped with older children unless all children in the group are less than three years of age. I suggested you review section .0713 in detail with all staff to ensure their knowledge and understanding of this requirement. Maintaining staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes is also essential to the health and safety of children. If children are combined with similar age groups, such as in the early morning or later evening hours, the staff/child ratio and maximum group size for the youngest child in the group must be maintained. Staff must be aware of children’s ages and how many children are in each group at all times. Today I suggested that staff keep a running list of children and their ages during transition times to ensure they are maintaining ratios and can ask for assistance if needed. Reminders: One (1) staff member, whose first day was September 2nd, 2025, has not received all of the required two (2)-week orientation due to absence for extended illness beginning her first week. Upon this employee’s return, you must complete the required orientation before she can return to the classroom. You can refer to the File Checklist – Staff, which can be found on the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Provider-Documents-and-Forms, to insure that staff files are completed within the required time frames. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@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 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/14/2025 Number Present: 91 Completed Date: 8/14/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 11:00 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit, including the Corrective Action Plan included in the Written Warning issued by the DCDEE to this facility on July 31, 2025. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point for the child care administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care experience in a licensed program that can be verified. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 81%. Shelia Morris, Director, assisted me with the visit today. One hundred thirty (130) children are enrolled and ninety-one (91) children ages birth through eleven (11) years of age were observed in spaces 1-7b. Children participated in free play indoors engaged in personal care routines such as toileting and meals. Breakfast for today consisted of sausage, biscuits, peaches, and milk. Adequate handwashing was observed. Adequate supervision and staff/child ratios were monitored and found in compliance. Other items monitored today included: CPR, first aid, special trainings, storage of hazardous substances, storage of medication, adequate/approved space, staff records, program records, license posted, and permit restrictions. The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on July 31, 2025. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding staff/child ratios and incident reports. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes four (4) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 was monitored and found in compliance. All classrooms maintained compliance with staff/child ratios Stipulation #2 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and grouping of children was received on August 13, 2025. During the visit today we reviewed the policies and procedures in detail, suggestions were given, and you plan to get the second draft to me by Monday, August 18, 2025. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #3 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for incident reports was received on August 13, 2025. During the visit today we reviewed the policies and procedures in detail, suggestions were given, and you plan to get the second draft to me by Monday, August 18, 2025. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #4 – This stipulation cannot be completed until stipulation #2 an #3 are completed. This stipulation is pending. All stipulations will be monitored routinely until the facility demonstrates the implementations are working effectively. The following violations were observed and corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. An open electrical outlet was left unplugged in space 6. This outlet was plugged during the visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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. The sanitizing and disinfectant solutions in space 5 were stored on a low shelf (less than 5 feet in critical height). These items were moved to a taller shelf (more than 5 feet in critical height). .2820(b) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. A bottle of soda was observed on top of the cubbies in space 2. This was removed during the visit. .0901(i) 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. Since both violations were corrected during the visit a compliance letter is not due at this time. Today I shared this information with Jackson Smith, Owner's Grandson, who is helping the owners on the business side of operations. Technical Assistance: 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. Today I suggested you review proper storage of hazardous substances with all staff at your next staff meeting. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901(j) GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast Food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. Reminders: Today we discussed the possibility of construction occurring in building 2 to permanently separate the NC Pre K classroom and the school age classroom and adding additional plumbing (sinks/toilets). Be reminded that you must obtain a building permit before start construction. Once construction is completed you must obtain new building, fire, and sanitation inspections and submit them to me. Once I receive all required inspections, I must make a visit to measure and approve the space before children can use the renovated space. Today I spoke with Jackson Spires, Owners grandson, who is helping with business operations. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@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: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/14/2025 Number Present: 91 Completed Date: 8/14/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 11:00 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit, including the Corrective Action Plan included in the Written Warning issued by the DCDEE to this facility on July 31, 2025. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point for the child care administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care experience in a licensed program that can be verified. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 81%. Shelia Morris, Director, assisted me with the visit today. One hundred thirty (130) children are enrolled and ninety-one (91) children ages birth through eleven (11) years of age were observed in spaces 1-7b. Children participated in free play indoors engaged in personal care routines such as toileting and meals. Breakfast for today consisted of sausage, biscuits, peaches, and milk. Adequate handwashing was observed. Adequate supervision and staff/child ratios were monitored and found in compliance. Other items monitored today included: CPR, first aid, special trainings, storage of hazardous substances, storage of medication, adequate/approved space, staff records, program records, license posted, and permit restrictions. The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on July 31, 2025. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding staff/child ratios and incident reports. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes four (4) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 was monitored and found in compliance. All classrooms maintained compliance with staff/child ratios Stipulation #2 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and grouping of children was received on August 13, 2025. During the visit today we reviewed the policies and procedures in detail, suggestions were given, and you plan to get the second draft to me by Monday, August 18, 2025. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #3 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for incident reports was received on August 13, 2025. During the visit today we reviewed the policies and procedures in detail, suggestions were given, and you plan to get the second draft to me by Monday, August 18, 2025. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #4 – This stipulation cannot be completed until stipulation #2 an #3 are completed. This stipulation is pending. All stipulations will be monitored routinely until the facility demonstrates the implementations are working effectively. The following violations were observed and corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. An open electrical outlet was left unplugged in space 6. This outlet was plugged during the visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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. The sanitizing and disinfectant solutions in space 5 were stored on a low shelf (less than 5 feet in critical height). These items were moved to a taller shelf (more than 5 feet in critical height). .2820(b) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. A bottle of soda was observed on top of the cubbies in space 2. This was removed during the visit. .0901(i) 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. Since both violations were corrected during the visit a compliance letter is not due at this time. Today I shared this information with Jackson Smith, Owner's Grandson, who is helping the owners on the business side of operations. Technical Assistance: 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. Today I suggested you review proper storage of hazardous substances with all staff at your next staff meeting. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901(j) GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast Food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. Reminders: Today we discussed the possibility of construction occurring in building 2 to permanently separate the NC Pre K classroom and the school age classroom and adding additional plumbing (sinks/toilets). Be reminded that you must obtain a building permit before start construction. Once construction is completed you must obtain new building, fire, and sanitation inspections and submit them to me. Once I receive all required inspections, I must make a visit to measure and approve the space before children can use the renovated space. Today I spoke with Jackson Spires, Owners grandson, who is helping with business operations. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@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: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/14/2025 Number Present: 91 Completed Date: 8/14/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 11:00 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit, including the Corrective Action Plan included in the Written Warning issued by the DCDEE to this facility on July 31, 2025. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point for the child care administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care experience in a licensed program that can be verified. Restrictions on the permit include: daytime care only; meets enhanced ratios; and meets enhanced space. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 81%. Shelia Morris, Director, assisted me with the visit today. One hundred thirty (130) children are enrolled and ninety-one (91) children ages birth through eleven (11) years of age were observed in spaces 1-7b. Children participated in free play indoors engaged in personal care routines such as toileting and meals. Breakfast for today consisted of sausage, biscuits, peaches, and milk. Adequate handwashing was observed. Adequate supervision and staff/child ratios were monitored and found in compliance. Other items monitored today included: CPR, first aid, special trainings, storage of hazardous substances, storage of medication, adequate/approved space, staff records, program records, license posted, and permit restrictions. The Administrative Action-Written Warning was issued on July 31, 2025. This Action was issued due to violations of childcare requirements regarding staff/child ratios and incident reports. A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required and includes four (4) stipulations. Today it was observed that the Administrative Action, Cover Letter and CAP were posted. As we discussed today, these items must remain posted until your closure letter is received. Stipulation #1 was monitored and found in compliance. All classrooms maintained compliance with staff/child ratios Stipulation #2 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for staff/child ratios and grouping of children was received on August 13, 2025. During the visit today we reviewed the policies and procedures in detail, suggestions were given, and you plan to get the second draft to me by Monday, August 18, 2025. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #3 – The first draft of the written policies and procedures for incident reports was received on August 13, 2025. During the visit today we reviewed the policies and procedures in detail, suggestions were given, and you plan to get the second draft to me by Monday, August 18, 2025. This stipulation is pending. Stipulation #4 – This stipulation cannot be completed until stipulation #2 an #3 are completed. This stipulation is pending. All stipulations will be monitored routinely until the facility demonstrates the implementations are working effectively. The following violations were observed and corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. An open electrical outlet was left unplugged in space 6. This outlet was plugged during the visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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. The sanitizing and disinfectant solutions in space 5 were stored on a low shelf (less than 5 feet in critical height). These items were moved to a taller shelf (more than 5 feet in critical height). .2820(b) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. A bottle of soda was observed on top of the cubbies in space 2. This was removed during the visit. .0901(i) 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. Since both violations were corrected during the visit a compliance letter is not due at this time. Today I shared this information with Jackson Smith, Owner's Grandson, who is helping the owners on the business side of operations. Technical Assistance: 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. Today I suggested you review proper storage of hazardous substances with all staff at your next staff meeting. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901(j) GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast Food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. Reminders: Today we discussed the possibility of construction occurring in building 2 to permanently separate the NC Pre K classroom and the school age classroom and adding additional plumbing (sinks/toilets). Be reminded that you must obtain a building permit before start construction. Once construction is completed you must obtain new building, fire, and sanitation inspections and submit them to me. Once I receive all required inspections, I must make a visit to measure and approve the space before children can use the renovated space. Today I spoke with Jackson Spires, Owners grandson, who is helping with business operations. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@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 .0802 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0625-218L Visit Date: 7/7/2025 Number Present: 93 Completed Date: 7/7/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding the alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: -There are concerns that children are not adequately supervised. -There are concerns that staff are not interacting with the children in a nurturing and caring manner. -There are concerns that staff/child ratios are not being followed. -There are concerns that incident reports are not being completed accurately. The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point for the child care administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care experience in a licensed program that can be verified. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 80%. In addition to the allegation, supervision, staff/child ratios, adequate/approved space, and permit restrictions were monitored. Shelia Morris, Director, was present assisted with the investigation. There are one hundred thirty-one (131) children are enrolled and ninety-three (93) children ranging in age from infants to eleven years of age were present today. Today, observations were in all indoor and outdoor licensed spaces. Children were observed participating in free play indoors and outdoors. Age appropriate materials and activities were provided for all age groups. Teachers were observed responding to children in a nurturing and caring manner by sitting with them at engaging in free play with them, comforting them when they cried, and redirecting inappropriate behaviors. Lunch consisted of whole grain breaded chicken fingers, tropical fruit, green beans, and milk. Staff/child ratios were as follows: Space 1 –one year olds – 1:6 Space 2 – three/four year olds – 1:11 Space 3 – two/three year olds – 2:18 Space 4 – two/three year olds – 2:16 Space 5 – one/two year olds – 2:7 Space 6 – infant/one year olds – 2:7 Space 7a – school agers – 1:14 Space 7b – four/five year olds – 2:14 The allegations were reviewed with you and all staff members. You were all given the opportunity to state your perceptions of the allegation. The facility does not have a video surveillance. Allegation #1 – There are concerns that children are not adequately supervised. **Fourteen (14) staff members, including administration, were interviewed today and no one reported any concerns with lapses of supervision. The preschool/school age building reported that if one group is on the playground and a child needs to go to the restroom, they walk the child to the door and ask the other group indoors to supervise the child while they use the restroom. This occurs only if this will not cause an issue with staff/child ratios. During my observations today, all children were adequately supervised, and no concerns were noted. Based on my observation, staff report, and my investigation, this allegation was not confirmed. Allegation #2 There are concerns that staff are not interacting with the children in a nurturing and caring manner. ** Fourteen (14) staff members, including administration, were interviewed today and no one reported any concerns children not being cared for in a nurturing and caring manner. Three (3) new staff members have only been working for 2-3 weeks. During my observations today, staff were observed using calm tones, and gentle hands with children. Children who were upset/crying were held and comforted. A child 2 years of age began to climb over a shelving unit. The staff member in a calm voice asked the child to put his feet on the floor. When the child did not comply the staff member asked the child to show her how he could put his feet on the floor. When the child did comply, the staff member thanked the child for doing what was asked. Based on my observation, staff report, and my investigation, this allegation was not confirmed. Allegation #3 – There are concerns that staff/child ratios are not being followed. ** Fourteen (14) staff members, including administration, were interviewed today and three (3) staff members stated they have been out of ratio in the morning during drop off. All three (3) teachers stated they will notify administration as soon as they are out of ratio and administration will shift children and/or move staff in order to come into compliance. I discussed with these staff and administration that at no time can they be out of ratio. Staff must notify administration when they hit their limit so that administration can make arrangements to shift children or staff to maintain compliance. We discussed if a parent tries to drop off a child that would put them out of compliance with staff/child ratios they must send the parent and the child to administration. Ratios were monitored today and found in compliance as listed above. Based on my observation, staff report, and my investigation, this allegation was confirmed. Allegation #4 - There are concerns that incident reports are not being completed accurately. ** Fourteen (14) staff members, including administration, were interviewed today and all staff reported immediately completing incident reports when an incident occurs. However, I reviewed thirty-eight (38) incident reports from the month of June and thirty (30) were not accurately completed. Items missing from the forms included one or more of the following items: the facility identification number, the facility name, the time of the incident, the child care consultants name, who witnessed the incident, who the form was completed by, how the parent was contacted, date/time of the parent was contacted, and who contacted the parent. Based on my observation, staff report, and my investigation, this allegation was confirmed. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. Thirty-eight (38) incident reports were observed for the month of June and thirty (30) incident reports did not include all the required information. .0802 (e) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Three (3) staff members reported they have been out of ratio in the morning during drop off by one child routinely. Ratios for these classrooms are 1:13 (4/5 year olds), and 1:6 (one year olds). These classrooms have reported ratios of 1:14 (4/5 year olds)and 1:7 (one year olds). This is a repeat violation from 06/19/25. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 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 July 21, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. 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. 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. Technical Assistance: Maintaining staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes is also essential to the health and safety of children. If children are combined with similar age groups, such as in the early morning or later evening hours, the staff/child ratio and maximum group size for the youngest child in the group must be maintained. Staff must be aware of children’s ages and how many children are in each group at all times. Today I suggested that staff keep a running list of children and their ages during transition times to ensure they are maintaining ratios and can ask for assistance if needed. As children are transitioning between indoor spaces in the mornings, staff must regularly count children (name to face recognition) at every transition, and whenever leaving one area and arriving at another. I discussed with staff and administration that at no time can they be out of ratio. Staff must notify administration when they hit their limit so that administration can make arrangements to shift children or staff to maintain compliance. We discussed if a parent tries to drop off a child that would put them out of compliance with staff/child ratios they must send the parent and the child to administration. In accordance with Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(e), an incident report must be completed each time a child is injured as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care. The rule specifies the information required to be included in an incident report, requires the parent’s signature, and requires the incident report be maintained in the child’s file. Specifically, 10A NCAC 09 .0802(e) states the following information shall be included on required incident reports: (1) facility identifying information; (2) the child's name; (3) date and time of the incident; (4) witness to the incident; (5) time the parent is notified of the incident and by whom; (6) piece of equipment involved, if applicable; (7) cause of injury, if applicable; (8) type of injury, if applicable; (9) body part injured, if applicable; (10) where the child received medical treatment, if applicable; (11) description of how and where the incident occurred, and the First Aid received; and (12) steps taken to prevent reoccurrence. Today we discussed having a staff meeting to review how to accurately complete an incident report. Additional language added to Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802 (e) specifies, “This report shall be signed by the person completing it and by the parent, a copy given to the parent or a parent signature declining a copy, and the report maintained in the child's file.” Today we discussed administration checking each incident report for accuracy before filing. An administrative action may be issued based on the confirmed allegations and a return visit will be made to verify correction of violations. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@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 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0625-218L Visit Date: 7/7/2025 Number Present: 93 Completed Date: 7/7/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding the alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: -There are concerns that children are not adequately supervised. -There are concerns that staff are not interacting with the children in a nurturing and caring manner. -There are concerns that staff/child ratios are not being followed. -There are concerns that incident reports are not being completed accurately. The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point for the child care administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care experience in a licensed program that can be verified. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 80%. In addition to the allegation, supervision, staff/child ratios, adequate/approved space, and permit restrictions were monitored. Shelia Morris, Director, was present assisted with the investigation. There are one hundred thirty-one (131) children are enrolled and ninety-three (93) children ranging in age from infants to eleven years of age were present today. Today, observations were in all indoor and outdoor licensed spaces. Children were observed participating in free play indoors and outdoors. Age appropriate materials and activities were provided for all age groups. Teachers were observed responding to children in a nurturing and caring manner by sitting with them at engaging in free play with them, comforting them when they cried, and redirecting inappropriate behaviors. Lunch consisted of whole grain breaded chicken fingers, tropical fruit, green beans, and milk. Staff/child ratios were as follows: Space 1 –one year olds – 1:6 Space 2 – three/four year olds – 1:11 Space 3 – two/three year olds – 2:18 Space 4 – two/three year olds – 2:16 Space 5 – one/two year olds – 2:7 Space 6 – infant/one year olds – 2:7 Space 7a – school agers – 1:14 Space 7b – four/five year olds – 2:14 The allegations were reviewed with you and all staff members. You were all given the opportunity to state your perceptions of the allegation. The facility does not have a video surveillance. Allegation #1 – There are concerns that children are not adequately supervised. **Fourteen (14) staff members, including administration, were interviewed today and no one reported any concerns with lapses of supervision. The preschool/school age building reported that if one group is on the playground and a child needs to go to the restroom, they walk the child to the door and ask the other group indoors to supervise the child while they use the restroom. This occurs only if this will not cause an issue with staff/child ratios. During my observations today, all children were adequately supervised, and no concerns were noted. Based on my observation, staff report, and my investigation, this allegation was not confirmed. Allegation #2 There are concerns that staff are not interacting with the children in a nurturing and caring manner. ** Fourteen (14) staff members, including administration, were interviewed today and no one reported any concerns children not being cared for in a nurturing and caring manner. Three (3) new staff members have only been working for 2-3 weeks. During my observations today, staff were observed using calm tones, and gentle hands with children. Children who were upset/crying were held and comforted. A child 2 years of age began to climb over a shelving unit. The staff member in a calm voice asked the child to put his feet on the floor. When the child did not comply the staff member asked the child to show her how he could put his feet on the floor. When the child did comply, the staff member thanked the child for doing what was asked. Based on my observation, staff report, and my investigation, this allegation was not confirmed. Allegation #3 – There are concerns that staff/child ratios are not being followed. ** Fourteen (14) staff members, including administration, were interviewed today and three (3) staff members stated they have been out of ratio in the morning during drop off. All three (3) teachers stated they will notify administration as soon as they are out of ratio and administration will shift children and/or move staff in order to come into compliance. I discussed with these staff and administration that at no time can they be out of ratio. Staff must notify administration when they hit their limit so that administration can make arrangements to shift children or staff to maintain compliance. We discussed if a parent tries to drop off a child that would put them out of compliance with staff/child ratios they must send the parent and the child to administration. Ratios were monitored today and found in compliance as listed above. Based on my observation, staff report, and my investigation, this allegation was confirmed. Allegation #4 - There are concerns that incident reports are not being completed accurately. ** Fourteen (14) staff members, including administration, were interviewed today and all staff reported immediately completing incident reports when an incident occurs. However, I reviewed thirty-eight (38) incident reports from the month of June and thirty (30) were not accurately completed. Items missing from the forms included one or more of the following items: the facility identification number, the facility name, the time of the incident, the child care consultants name, who witnessed the incident, who the form was completed by, how the parent was contacted, date/time of the parent was contacted, and who contacted the parent. Based on my observation, staff report, and my investigation, this allegation was confirmed. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. Thirty-eight (38) incident reports were observed for the month of June and thirty (30) incident reports did not include all the required information. .0802 (e) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Three (3) staff members reported they have been out of ratio in the morning during drop off by one child routinely. Ratios for these classrooms are 1:13 (4/5 year olds), and 1:6 (one year olds). These classrooms have reported ratios of 1:14 (4/5 year olds)and 1:7 (one year olds). This is a repeat violation from 06/19/25. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 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 July 21, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. 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. 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. Technical Assistance: Maintaining staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes is also essential to the health and safety of children. If children are combined with similar age groups, such as in the early morning or later evening hours, the staff/child ratio and maximum group size for the youngest child in the group must be maintained. Staff must be aware of children’s ages and how many children are in each group at all times. Today I suggested that staff keep a running list of children and their ages during transition times to ensure they are maintaining ratios and can ask for assistance if needed. As children are transitioning between indoor spaces in the mornings, staff must regularly count children (name to face recognition) at every transition, and whenever leaving one area and arriving at another. I discussed with staff and administration that at no time can they be out of ratio. Staff must notify administration when they hit their limit so that administration can make arrangements to shift children or staff to maintain compliance. We discussed if a parent tries to drop off a child that would put them out of compliance with staff/child ratios they must send the parent and the child to administration. In accordance with Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(e), an incident report must be completed each time a child is injured as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care. The rule specifies the information required to be included in an incident report, requires the parent’s signature, and requires the incident report be maintained in the child’s file. Specifically, 10A NCAC 09 .0802(e) states the following information shall be included on required incident reports: (1) facility identifying information; (2) the child's name; (3) date and time of the incident; (4) witness to the incident; (5) time the parent is notified of the incident and by whom; (6) piece of equipment involved, if applicable; (7) cause of injury, if applicable; (8) type of injury, if applicable; (9) body part injured, if applicable; (10) where the child received medical treatment, if applicable; (11) description of how and where the incident occurred, and the First Aid received; and (12) steps taken to prevent reoccurrence. Today we discussed having a staff meeting to review how to accurately complete an incident report. Additional language added to Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802 (e) specifies, “This report shall be signed by the person completing it and by the parent, a copy given to the parent or a parent signature declining a copy, and the report maintained in the child's file.” Today we discussed administration checking each incident report for accuracy before filing. An administrative action may be issued based on the confirmed allegations and a return visit will be made to verify correction of violations. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@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: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0625-218L Visit Date: 7/7/2025 Number Present: 93 Completed Date: 7/7/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding the alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: -There are concerns that children are not adequately supervised. -There are concerns that staff are not interacting with the children in a nurturing and caring manner. -There are concerns that staff/child ratios are not being followed. -There are concerns that incident reports are not being completed accurately. The program currently operates with a five-star license, issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point for the child care administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care experience in a licensed program that can be verified. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 80%. In addition to the allegation, supervision, staff/child ratios, adequate/approved space, and permit restrictions were monitored. Shelia Morris, Director, was present assisted with the investigation. There are one hundred thirty-one (131) children are enrolled and ninety-three (93) children ranging in age from infants to eleven years of age were present today. Today, observations were in all indoor and outdoor licensed spaces. Children were observed participating in free play indoors and outdoors. Age appropriate materials and activities were provided for all age groups. Teachers were observed responding to children in a nurturing and caring manner by sitting with them at engaging in free play with them, comforting them when they cried, and redirecting inappropriate behaviors. Lunch consisted of whole grain breaded chicken fingers, tropical fruit, green beans, and milk. Staff/child ratios were as follows: Space 1 –one year olds – 1:6 Space 2 – three/four year olds – 1:11 Space 3 – two/three year olds – 2:18 Space 4 – two/three year olds – 2:16 Space 5 – one/two year olds – 2:7 Space 6 – infant/one year olds – 2:7 Space 7a – school agers – 1:14 Space 7b – four/five year olds – 2:14 The allegations were reviewed with you and all staff members. You were all given the opportunity to state your perceptions of the allegation. The facility does not have a video surveillance. Allegation #1 – There are concerns that children are not adequately supervised. **Fourteen (14) staff members, including administration, were interviewed today and no one reported any concerns with lapses of supervision. The preschool/school age building reported that if one group is on the playground and a child needs to go to the restroom, they walk the child to the door and ask the other group indoors to supervise the child while they use the restroom. This occurs only if this will not cause an issue with staff/child ratios. During my observations today, all children were adequately supervised, and no concerns were noted. Based on my observation, staff report, and my investigation, this allegation was not confirmed. Allegation #2 There are concerns that staff are not interacting with the children in a nurturing and caring manner. ** Fourteen (14) staff members, including administration, were interviewed today and no one reported any concerns children not being cared for in a nurturing and caring manner. Three (3) new staff members have only been working for 2-3 weeks. During my observations today, staff were observed using calm tones, and gentle hands with children. Children who were upset/crying were held and comforted. A child 2 years of age began to climb over a shelving unit. The staff member in a calm voice asked the child to put his feet on the floor. When the child did not comply the staff member asked the child to show her how he could put his feet on the floor. When the child did comply, the staff member thanked the child for doing what was asked. Based on my observation, staff report, and my investigation, this allegation was not confirmed. Allegation #3 – There are concerns that staff/child ratios are not being followed. ** Fourteen (14) staff members, including administration, were interviewed today and three (3) staff members stated they have been out of ratio in the morning during drop off. All three (3) teachers stated they will notify administration as soon as they are out of ratio and administration will shift children and/or move staff in order to come into compliance. I discussed with these staff and administration that at no time can they be out of ratio. Staff must notify administration when they hit their limit so that administration can make arrangements to shift children or staff to maintain compliance. We discussed if a parent tries to drop off a child that would put them out of compliance with staff/child ratios they must send the parent and the child to administration. Ratios were monitored today and found in compliance as listed above. Based on my observation, staff report, and my investigation, this allegation was confirmed. Allegation #4 - There are concerns that incident reports are not being completed accurately. ** Fourteen (14) staff members, including administration, were interviewed today and all staff reported immediately completing incident reports when an incident occurs. However, I reviewed thirty-eight (38) incident reports from the month of June and thirty (30) were not accurately completed. Items missing from the forms included one or more of the following items: the facility identification number, the facility name, the time of the incident, the child care consultants name, who witnessed the incident, who the form was completed by, how the parent was contacted, date/time of the parent was contacted, and who contacted the parent. Based on my observation, staff report, and my investigation, this allegation was confirmed. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. Thirty-eight (38) incident reports were observed for the month of June and thirty (30) incident reports did not include all the required information. .0802 (e) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Three (3) staff members reported they have been out of ratio in the morning during drop off by one child routinely. Ratios for these classrooms are 1:13 (4/5 year olds), and 1:6 (one year olds). These classrooms have reported ratios of 1:14 (4/5 year olds)and 1:7 (one year olds). This is a repeat violation from 06/19/25. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 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 July 21, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. 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. 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. Technical Assistance: Maintaining staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes is also essential to the health and safety of children. If children are combined with similar age groups, such as in the early morning or later evening hours, the staff/child ratio and maximum group size for the youngest child in the group must be maintained. Staff must be aware of children’s ages and how many children are in each group at all times. Today I suggested that staff keep a running list of children and their ages during transition times to ensure they are maintaining ratios and can ask for assistance if needed. As children are transitioning between indoor spaces in the mornings, staff must regularly count children (name to face recognition) at every transition, and whenever leaving one area and arriving at another. I discussed with staff and administration that at no time can they be out of ratio. Staff must notify administration when they hit their limit so that administration can make arrangements to shift children or staff to maintain compliance. We discussed if a parent tries to drop off a child that would put them out of compliance with staff/child ratios they must send the parent and the child to administration. In accordance with Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802(e), an incident report must be completed each time a child is injured as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care. The rule specifies the information required to be included in an incident report, requires the parent’s signature, and requires the incident report be maintained in the child’s file. Specifically, 10A NCAC 09 .0802(e) states the following information shall be included on required incident reports: (1) facility identifying information; (2) the child's name; (3) date and time of the incident; (4) witness to the incident; (5) time the parent is notified of the incident and by whom; (6) piece of equipment involved, if applicable; (7) cause of injury, if applicable; (8) type of injury, if applicable; (9) body part injured, if applicable; (10) where the child received medical treatment, if applicable; (11) description of how and where the incident occurred, and the First Aid received; and (12) steps taken to prevent reoccurrence. Today we discussed having a staff meeting to review how to accurately complete an incident report. Additional language added to Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802 (e) specifies, “This report shall be signed by the person completing it and by the parent, a copy given to the parent or a parent signature declining a copy, and the report maintained in the child's file.” Today we discussed administration checking each incident report for accuracy before filing. An administrative action may be issued based on the confirmed allegations and a return visit will be made to verify correction of violations. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@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 .0514 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: JENNIFER H BYRD Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0625-140A Visit Date: 6/19/2025 Number Present: 87 Completed Date: 6/19/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 75 Time In: 11:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Shelia Morris-Dennis, Administrator, accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. Morris-Dennis. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 108 The operator made an effort to falsify information. The administrator provided falsified information on several occasions related to staff records and information related to inappropriate discipline use by a staff member. G.S. 110-91(14) 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. An incident report was not completed when a child's lip was injured or when a child received medical attention for injuries suspected of occurring while in care. .0802 (e) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. On June 12, 2025, a child was not cared for in a nurturing and appropriate manner when a staff member told the child scratch themself on the face in response to the child scratching another child. When the child did not scratch themselves hard enough, the staff member scratched and/or assisted the child in scratching themselves, which resulted in a deep scratch/abrasion under the child’s eye. On unknown dates, a staff member hit three-year-old children in the head with books. G.S. 110-91(10) 904 A child was handled in a rough way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking. On an unknown date, a staff member dragged a four-year-old child by the wrist. .1803(a)(1) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. At least one staff member did not have a Criminal Background Check prior to employment. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1230 Personnel policies were not discussed with each staff at employment and a copy was not available to all staff. The center's discipline policy was not reviewed with several staff members. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(e) 1734 All children's records, except ones regarding administration of medications as referenced in rule.0803 (13), were not retained on file for as long as the child was enrolled, and/or for at least one year from the date the child was no longer enrolled in the facility. A file was not available for a child who had been disenrolled for less than one year. .2318(6) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. During today's visit, there was one caregiver providing care to twelve one-year-old children. This was corrected during the visit. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1810 There was a substantiation of child maltreatment. Pursuant to its investigation, the Division has confirmed sufficient information to determine child maltreatment. GS 110-105.6(a) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A staff member yelled at three-year-old children. .1803(a)(9) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline. On an unknown date, a staff member restrained a four-year-old child in the staff member's lap. .1803(a)(10) 1880 Prescribed medication was not administered according to the prescription, using the amount and frequency of dosage specified on the label. On an unknown date, a staff member failed to give a four-year-old child their inhaler resulting in the child needing medical attention. .0803(2)(d) 1911 An incident report was not completed and mailed to a Division representative within seven days after the incident when medical treatment was required. An incident report was not mailed to a Division representative when a child received medical care for injuries that occurred at the center on October 9, 2024 and June 12, 2025. .0802(f) 1952 A copy of the incident report was not given to the parent. A copy of the incident report was not given to the parent when a child was injured. .0802(e) All violations documented above must be corrected immediately. A written, dated, and signed letter of compliance must be submitted to me within one week, by June 26, 2025, describing how and when the violations were corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. The letter of compliance should be emailed or mailed to Jennifer Byrd, Investigations Consultant 2201 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-2200 Telephone-910-785-1486 Fax number- 919-715-1013 Email Jennifer.H.Byrd@dhhs.nc.gov or Melissa Loehr, Supervisor Melissa.Loehr@dhhs.nc.gov Thank you for your time. 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 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: JENNIFER H BYRD Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0625-140A Visit Date: 6/19/2025 Number Present: 87 Completed Date: 6/19/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 75 Time In: 11:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Shelia Morris-Dennis, Administrator, accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. Morris-Dennis. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 108 The operator made an effort to falsify information. The administrator provided falsified information on several occasions related to staff records and information related to inappropriate discipline use by a staff member. G.S. 110-91(14) 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. An incident report was not completed when a child's lip was injured or when a child received medical attention for injuries suspected of occurring while in care. .0802 (e) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. On June 12, 2025, a child was not cared for in a nurturing and appropriate manner when a staff member told the child scratch themself on the face in response to the child scratching another child. When the child did not scratch themselves hard enough, the staff member scratched and/or assisted the child in scratching themselves, which resulted in a deep scratch/abrasion under the child’s eye. On unknown dates, a staff member hit three-year-old children in the head with books. G.S. 110-91(10) 904 A child was handled in a rough way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking. On an unknown date, a staff member dragged a four-year-old child by the wrist. .1803(a)(1) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. At least one staff member did not have a Criminal Background Check prior to employment. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1230 Personnel policies were not discussed with each staff at employment and a copy was not available to all staff. The center's discipline policy was not reviewed with several staff members. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(e) 1734 All children's records, except ones regarding administration of medications as referenced in rule.0803 (13), were not retained on file for as long as the child was enrolled, and/or for at least one year from the date the child was no longer enrolled in the facility. A file was not available for a child who had been disenrolled for less than one year. .2318(6) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. During today's visit, there was one caregiver providing care to twelve one-year-old children. This was corrected during the visit. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1810 There was a substantiation of child maltreatment. Pursuant to its investigation, the Division has confirmed sufficient information to determine child maltreatment. GS 110-105.6(a) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A staff member yelled at three-year-old children. .1803(a)(9) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline. On an unknown date, a staff member restrained a four-year-old child in the staff member's lap. .1803(a)(10) 1880 Prescribed medication was not administered according to the prescription, using the amount and frequency of dosage specified on the label. On an unknown date, a staff member failed to give a four-year-old child their inhaler resulting in the child needing medical attention. .0803(2)(d) 1911 An incident report was not completed and mailed to a Division representative within seven days after the incident when medical treatment was required. An incident report was not mailed to a Division representative when a child received medical care for injuries that occurred at the center on October 9, 2024 and June 12, 2025. .0802(f) 1952 A copy of the incident report was not given to the parent. A copy of the incident report was not given to the parent when a child was injured. .0802(e) All violations documented above must be corrected immediately. A written, dated, and signed letter of compliance must be submitted to me within one week, by June 26, 2025, describing how and when the violations were corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. The letter of compliance should be emailed or mailed to Jennifer Byrd, Investigations Consultant 2201 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-2200 Telephone-910-785-1486 Fax number- 919-715-1013 Email Jennifer.H.Byrd@dhhs.nc.gov or Melissa Loehr, Supervisor Melissa.Loehr@dhhs.nc.gov Thank you for your time. 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. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: JENNIFER H BYRD Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0625-140A Visit Date: 6/19/2025 Number Present: 87 Completed Date: 6/19/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 75 Time In: 11:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Shelia Morris-Dennis, Administrator, accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. Morris-Dennis. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 108 The operator made an effort to falsify information. The administrator provided falsified information on several occasions related to staff records and information related to inappropriate discipline use by a staff member. G.S. 110-91(14) 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. An incident report was not completed when a child's lip was injured or when a child received medical attention for injuries suspected of occurring while in care. .0802 (e) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. On June 12, 2025, a child was not cared for in a nurturing and appropriate manner when a staff member told the child scratch themself on the face in response to the child scratching another child. When the child did not scratch themselves hard enough, the staff member scratched and/or assisted the child in scratching themselves, which resulted in a deep scratch/abrasion under the child’s eye. On unknown dates, a staff member hit three-year-old children in the head with books. G.S. 110-91(10) 904 A child was handled in a rough way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking. On an unknown date, a staff member dragged a four-year-old child by the wrist. .1803(a)(1) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. At least one staff member did not have a Criminal Background Check prior to employment. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1230 Personnel policies were not discussed with each staff at employment and a copy was not available to all staff. The center's discipline policy was not reviewed with several staff members. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(e) 1734 All children's records, except ones regarding administration of medications as referenced in rule.0803 (13), were not retained on file for as long as the child was enrolled, and/or for at least one year from the date the child was no longer enrolled in the facility. A file was not available for a child who had been disenrolled for less than one year. .2318(6) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. During today's visit, there was one caregiver providing care to twelve one-year-old children. This was corrected during the visit. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1810 There was a substantiation of child maltreatment. Pursuant to its investigation, the Division has confirmed sufficient information to determine child maltreatment. GS 110-105.6(a) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A staff member yelled at three-year-old children. .1803(a)(9) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline. On an unknown date, a staff member restrained a four-year-old child in the staff member's lap. .1803(a)(10) 1880 Prescribed medication was not administered according to the prescription, using the amount and frequency of dosage specified on the label. On an unknown date, a staff member failed to give a four-year-old child their inhaler resulting in the child needing medical attention. .0803(2)(d) 1911 An incident report was not completed and mailed to a Division representative within seven days after the incident when medical treatment was required. An incident report was not mailed to a Division representative when a child received medical care for injuries that occurred at the center on October 9, 2024 and June 12, 2025. .0802(f) 1952 A copy of the incident report was not given to the parent. A copy of the incident report was not given to the parent when a child was injured. .0802(e) All violations documented above must be corrected immediately. A written, dated, and signed letter of compliance must be submitted to me within one week, by June 26, 2025, describing how and when the violations were corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. The letter of compliance should be emailed or mailed to Jennifer Byrd, Investigations Consultant 2201 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-2200 Telephone-910-785-1486 Fax number- 919-715-1013 Email Jennifer.H.Byrd@dhhs.nc.gov or Melissa Loehr, Supervisor Melissa.Loehr@dhhs.nc.gov Thank you for your time. 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: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: JENNIFER H BYRD Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0625-140A Visit Date: 6/19/2025 Number Present: 87 Completed Date: 6/19/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 75 Time In: 11:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Shelia Morris-Dennis, Administrator, accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. Morris-Dennis. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 108 The operator made an effort to falsify information. The administrator provided falsified information on several occasions related to staff records and information related to inappropriate discipline use by a staff member. G.S. 110-91(14) 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. An incident report was not completed when a child's lip was injured or when a child received medical attention for injuries suspected of occurring while in care. .0802 (e) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. On June 12, 2025, a child was not cared for in a nurturing and appropriate manner when a staff member told the child scratch themself on the face in response to the child scratching another child. When the child did not scratch themselves hard enough, the staff member scratched and/or assisted the child in scratching themselves, which resulted in a deep scratch/abrasion under the child’s eye. On unknown dates, a staff member hit three-year-old children in the head with books. G.S. 110-91(10) 904 A child was handled in a rough way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking. On an unknown date, a staff member dragged a four-year-old child by the wrist. .1803(a)(1) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. At least one staff member did not have a Criminal Background Check prior to employment. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1230 Personnel policies were not discussed with each staff at employment and a copy was not available to all staff. The center's discipline policy was not reviewed with several staff members. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(e) 1734 All children's records, except ones regarding administration of medications as referenced in rule.0803 (13), were not retained on file for as long as the child was enrolled, and/or for at least one year from the date the child was no longer enrolled in the facility. A file was not available for a child who had been disenrolled for less than one year. .2318(6) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. During today's visit, there was one caregiver providing care to twelve one-year-old children. This was corrected during the visit. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1810 There was a substantiation of child maltreatment. Pursuant to its investigation, the Division has confirmed sufficient information to determine child maltreatment. GS 110-105.6(a) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A staff member yelled at three-year-old children. .1803(a)(9) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline. On an unknown date, a staff member restrained a four-year-old child in the staff member's lap. .1803(a)(10) 1880 Prescribed medication was not administered according to the prescription, using the amount and frequency of dosage specified on the label. On an unknown date, a staff member failed to give a four-year-old child their inhaler resulting in the child needing medical attention. .0803(2)(d) 1911 An incident report was not completed and mailed to a Division representative within seven days after the incident when medical treatment was required. An incident report was not mailed to a Division representative when a child received medical care for injuries that occurred at the center on October 9, 2024 and June 12, 2025. .0802(f) 1952 A copy of the incident report was not given to the parent. A copy of the incident report was not given to the parent when a child was injured. .0802(e) All violations documented above must be corrected immediately. A written, dated, and signed letter of compliance must be submitted to me within one week, by June 26, 2025, describing how and when the violations were corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. The letter of compliance should be emailed or mailed to Jennifer Byrd, Investigations Consultant 2201 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-2200 Telephone-910-785-1486 Fax number- 919-715-1013 Email Jennifer.H.Byrd@dhhs.nc.gov or Melissa Loehr, Supervisor Melissa.Loehr@dhhs.nc.gov Thank you for your time. 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 110-105 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: JENNIFER H BYRD Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0625-140A Visit Date: 6/19/2025 Number Present: 87 Completed Date: 6/19/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 75 Time In: 11:15 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Shelia Morris-Dennis, Administrator, accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. Morris-Dennis. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 108 The operator made an effort to falsify information. The administrator provided falsified information on several occasions related to staff records and information related to inappropriate discipline use by a staff member. G.S. 110-91(14) 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. An incident report was not completed when a child's lip was injured or when a child received medical attention for injuries suspected of occurring while in care. .0802 (e) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. On June 12, 2025, a child was not cared for in a nurturing and appropriate manner when a staff member told the child scratch themself on the face in response to the child scratching another child. When the child did not scratch themselves hard enough, the staff member scratched and/or assisted the child in scratching themselves, which resulted in a deep scratch/abrasion under the child’s eye. On unknown dates, a staff member hit three-year-old children in the head with books. G.S. 110-91(10) 904 A child was handled in a rough way, including shaking, pushing, shoving, pinching, slapping, biting, kicking, or spanking. On an unknown date, a staff member dragged a four-year-old child by the wrist. .1803(a)(1) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. At least one staff member did not have a Criminal Background Check prior to employment. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1230 Personnel policies were not discussed with each staff at employment and a copy was not available to all staff. The center's discipline policy was not reviewed with several staff members. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(e) 1734 All children's records, except ones regarding administration of medications as referenced in rule.0803 (13), were not retained on file for as long as the child was enrolled, and/or for at least one year from the date the child was no longer enrolled in the facility. A file was not available for a child who had been disenrolled for less than one year. .2318(6) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. During today's visit, there was one caregiver providing care to twelve one-year-old children. This was corrected during the visit. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1810 There was a substantiation of child maltreatment. Pursuant to its investigation, the Division has confirmed sufficient information to determine child maltreatment. GS 110-105.6(a) 1876 A child was yelled at, shamed, humiliated, frightened, threatened or bullied. A staff member yelled at three-year-old children. .1803(a)(9) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline. On an unknown date, a staff member restrained a four-year-old child in the staff member's lap. .1803(a)(10) 1880 Prescribed medication was not administered according to the prescription, using the amount and frequency of dosage specified on the label. On an unknown date, a staff member failed to give a four-year-old child their inhaler resulting in the child needing medical attention. .0803(2)(d) 1911 An incident report was not completed and mailed to a Division representative within seven days after the incident when medical treatment was required. An incident report was not mailed to a Division representative when a child received medical care for injuries that occurred at the center on October 9, 2024 and June 12, 2025. .0802(f) 1952 A copy of the incident report was not given to the parent. A copy of the incident report was not given to the parent when a child was injured. .0802(e) All violations documented above must be corrected immediately. A written, dated, and signed letter of compliance must be submitted to me within one week, by June 26, 2025, describing how and when the violations were corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. The letter of compliance should be emailed or mailed to Jennifer Byrd, Investigations Consultant 2201 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-2200 Telephone-910-785-1486 Fax number- 919-715-1013 Email Jennifer.H.Byrd@dhhs.nc.gov or Melissa Loehr, Supervisor Melissa.Loehr@dhhs.nc.gov Thank you for your time. 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: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/13/2025 Number Present: 108 Completed Date: 5/13/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 11:15 AM 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. You, Shelia Morris-Dennis, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point for the child care administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care experience in a licensed program that can be verified. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 82%. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc. 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. I observed children in both the indoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Activity plans were current and reflected NC Early Childhood Foundations. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. Infants were engaged in tummy time, napping, and diapering routines. Sleep checks were completed, recorded, and maintained as required. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Six (6) new staff members have been hired since the last monitoring visit and their files were monitored. Fire and sanitation inspections remain current. Lunch scheduled for today consisted of chicken breasts, peaches, spinach, whole grain crackers, and milk. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. A prescription medication inhaler was not in the original labeled container in space 7b. .0803(2)(a) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. A diaper cream ointment permission form in space 5 did not have information regarding the amount to be used, when to use the ointment, or where. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 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. A staff member's First Aid certification expired March 2025. .1102(c) 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. A staff member's CPR certification expired March 2025. .1102(d) 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 27, 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: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@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: CPR and First Aid training for child care must be taught in-person by an approved training organization, and only certain courses meet requirements. For a list of approved organizations and courses, visit the website below: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training Technical assistance was also provided today regarding file organization. I suggested that you use the revised file checklists under “Provider Documents and Forms” on the DCDEE website to assist with organization and ensure all requirements are met. I also encouraged you to review the chart in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2318 for more information about records retention. ABCMS- Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database): As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care captured in ABCMS. You’ll need to gain access to the business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Should you need assistance with the portal or the training, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401and someone will assist you. All medications must be accompanied by written authorizations from parents with complete instructions for administration. Prescription medications must also be in the original container with the pharmacy label attached. Today I suggested that you review medication requirements with staff and periodically check behind them to ensure all requirements are met. Reminders: Several of your classrooms are over enrolled. Be reminded that you must maintain ratio and group size capacity based on the youngest child present. The Preservice Form for Administrators was emailed to you today. Please complete and submit to me. Rated License: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to the timelines discussed previously; however, you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP): As of February 1, 2025, the new and improved Environment Rating Scales – Third Additions will be implemented. Today we discussed the purchase of the new tools, training opportunities, and the NCRLAP website. Please visit www.ncrlap.org for more information and start training your staff now on this new tool! Outreach assessments on the new tools are available now. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed, signed, and left with you today. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@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 .2318 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/13/2025 Number Present: 108 Completed Date: 5/13/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 11:15 AM 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. You, Shelia Morris-Dennis, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point for the child care administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care experience in a licensed program that can be verified. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 82%. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc. 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. I observed children in both the indoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Activity plans were current and reflected NC Early Childhood Foundations. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. Infants were engaged in tummy time, napping, and diapering routines. Sleep checks were completed, recorded, and maintained as required. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Six (6) new staff members have been hired since the last monitoring visit and their files were monitored. Fire and sanitation inspections remain current. Lunch scheduled for today consisted of chicken breasts, peaches, spinach, whole grain crackers, and milk. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. A prescription medication inhaler was not in the original labeled container in space 7b. .0803(2)(a) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. A diaper cream ointment permission form in space 5 did not have information regarding the amount to be used, when to use the ointment, or where. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 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. A staff member's First Aid certification expired March 2025. .1102(c) 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. A staff member's CPR certification expired March 2025. .1102(d) 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 27, 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: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@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: CPR and First Aid training for child care must be taught in-person by an approved training organization, and only certain courses meet requirements. For a list of approved organizations and courses, visit the website below: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training Technical assistance was also provided today regarding file organization. I suggested that you use the revised file checklists under “Provider Documents and Forms” on the DCDEE website to assist with organization and ensure all requirements are met. I also encouraged you to review the chart in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2318 for more information about records retention. ABCMS- Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database): As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care captured in ABCMS. You’ll need to gain access to the business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Should you need assistance with the portal or the training, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401and someone will assist you. All medications must be accompanied by written authorizations from parents with complete instructions for administration. Prescription medications must also be in the original container with the pharmacy label attached. Today I suggested that you review medication requirements with staff and periodically check behind them to ensure all requirements are met. Reminders: Several of your classrooms are over enrolled. Be reminded that you must maintain ratio and group size capacity based on the youngest child present. The Preservice Form for Administrators was emailed to you today. Please complete and submit to me. Rated License: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to the timelines discussed previously; however, you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP): As of February 1, 2025, the new and improved Environment Rating Scales – Third Additions will be implemented. Today we discussed the purchase of the new tools, training opportunities, and the NCRLAP website. Please visit www.ncrlap.org for more information and start training your staff now on this new tool! Outreach assessments on the new tools are available now. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed, signed, and left with you today. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@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. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/13/2025 Number Present: 108 Completed Date: 5/13/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 11:15 AM 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. You, Shelia Morris-Dennis, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point for the child care administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care experience in a licensed program that can be verified. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 82%. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc. 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. I observed children in both the indoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Activity plans were current and reflected NC Early Childhood Foundations. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. Infants were engaged in tummy time, napping, and diapering routines. Sleep checks were completed, recorded, and maintained as required. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Six (6) new staff members have been hired since the last monitoring visit and their files were monitored. Fire and sanitation inspections remain current. Lunch scheduled for today consisted of chicken breasts, peaches, spinach, whole grain crackers, and milk. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. A prescription medication inhaler was not in the original labeled container in space 7b. .0803(2)(a) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. A diaper cream ointment permission form in space 5 did not have information regarding the amount to be used, when to use the ointment, or where. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 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. A staff member's First Aid certification expired March 2025. .1102(c) 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. A staff member's CPR certification expired March 2025. .1102(d) 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 27, 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: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@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: CPR and First Aid training for child care must be taught in-person by an approved training organization, and only certain courses meet requirements. For a list of approved organizations and courses, visit the website below: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training Technical assistance was also provided today regarding file organization. I suggested that you use the revised file checklists under “Provider Documents and Forms” on the DCDEE website to assist with organization and ensure all requirements are met. I also encouraged you to review the chart in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2318 for more information about records retention. ABCMS- Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database): As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care captured in ABCMS. You’ll need to gain access to the business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Should you need assistance with the portal or the training, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401and someone will assist you. All medications must be accompanied by written authorizations from parents with complete instructions for administration. Prescription medications must also be in the original container with the pharmacy label attached. Today I suggested that you review medication requirements with staff and periodically check behind them to ensure all requirements are met. Reminders: Several of your classrooms are over enrolled. Be reminded that you must maintain ratio and group size capacity based on the youngest child present. The Preservice Form for Administrators was emailed to you today. Please complete and submit to me. Rated License: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to the timelines discussed previously; however, you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP): As of February 1, 2025, the new and improved Environment Rating Scales – Third Additions will be implemented. Today we discussed the purchase of the new tools, training opportunities, and the NCRLAP website. Please visit www.ncrlap.org for more information and start training your staff now on this new tool! Outreach assessments on the new tools are available now. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed, signed, and left with you today. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@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: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/13/2025 Number Present: 108 Completed Date: 5/13/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 08:30 AM Time Out: 11:15 AM 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. You, Shelia Morris-Dennis, Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point for the child care administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care experience in a licensed program that can be verified. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 82%. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc. 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. I observed children in both the indoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Activity plans were current and reflected NC Early Childhood Foundations. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. Infants were engaged in tummy time, napping, and diapering routines. Sleep checks were completed, recorded, and maintained as required. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Six (6) new staff members have been hired since the last monitoring visit and their files were monitored. Fire and sanitation inspections remain current. Lunch scheduled for today consisted of chicken breasts, peaches, spinach, whole grain crackers, and milk. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. A prescription medication inhaler was not in the original labeled container in space 7b. .0803(2)(a) 847 Parent's medication authorization did not include required information. A diaper cream ointment permission form in space 5 did not have information regarding the amount to be used, when to use the ointment, or where. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4)(6-9) 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. A staff member's First Aid certification expired March 2025. .1102(c) 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. A staff member's CPR certification expired March 2025. .1102(d) 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 27, 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: April Lester, Child Care Consultant PO Box 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@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: CPR and First Aid training for child care must be taught in-person by an approved training organization, and only certain courses meet requirements. For a list of approved organizations and courses, visit the website below: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training Technical assistance was also provided today regarding file organization. I suggested that you use the revised file checklists under “Provider Documents and Forms” on the DCDEE website to assist with organization and ensure all requirements are met. I also encouraged you to review the chart in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2318 for more information about records retention. ABCMS- Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database): As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care captured in ABCMS. You’ll need to gain access to the business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. Should you need assistance with the portal or the training, please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-6401and someone will assist you. All medications must be accompanied by written authorizations from parents with complete instructions for administration. Prescription medications must also be in the original container with the pharmacy label attached. Today I suggested that you review medication requirements with staff and periodically check behind them to ensure all requirements are met. Reminders: Several of your classrooms are over enrolled. Be reminded that you must maintain ratio and group size capacity based on the youngest child present. The Preservice Form for Administrators was emailed to you today. Please complete and submit to me. Rated License: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to the timelines discussed previously; however, you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP): As of February 1, 2025, the new and improved Environment Rating Scales – Third Additions will be implemented. Today we discussed the purchase of the new tools, training opportunities, and the NCRLAP website. Please visit www.ncrlap.org for more information and start training your staff now on this new tool! Outreach assessments on the new tools are available now. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed, signed, and left with you today. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@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 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: ALLISON DAVIS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0225-314A Visit Date: 3/3/2025 Number Present: 83 Completed Date: 3/3/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 170 Time In: 01:45 PM Time Out: 04:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. J. Nichole McDowell, Administrator, accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. McDowell and additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. While outside on February 27, 2025, a staff member observed a one-year-old child kneeling on the ground crying near the bottom of a slide. On this occasion, staff members failed to maximize their ability to see or hear the child at all times, were unaware of the child’s whereabouts or activities at all times, did not know if the child had been injured, and did not provide age appropriate supervision. .1801(a)(1-5) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. On February 27, 2025, one staff member was present on the playground with fifteen (15) one-year-old to two-year-old children for at least one minute. The minimum staff/child ratio for this age group is one staff member to six children with a group size of no more than twelve children. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. On March 3, 2025, the depth of the mulch at the bottom of the double slide was less than two inches. The required depth is at least six inches for a structure under five feet high. .0605(k)(1-4) You may contact me at Allison Davis, Investigations Consultant, allison.davis@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-800-0079 or Melissa Loehr, Southeastern Investigations Supervisor, melissa.loehr@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. 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 .0606 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/14/2024 Number Present: 99 Completed Date: 11/14/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Five Star license issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in Education, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 155 children 0-12 years of age and meets enhanced ratios and space. Restrictions were in compliance today. The facility was also monitored for implementing an approved curriculum with children four years of age as required by the star rating; this program uses Creative Curriculum, Guided Edition. Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc., was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office today. The last annual compliance visit was conducted November 23, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned October 29, 2024, and a fire inspection was conducted March 23, 2024; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 87%. Director, N. McDowell, was present and available for consultation today. Eight indoor and four outdoor spaces are approved for use by children; all spaces are in use. Infants in Spaces 5 and 6 were observed in free play activities. Safe sleep practices including documentation were monitored and in compliance today. Children one year of age in Space 1 and two year olds in space 4 also engaged in free play with age appropriate materials. Children two years of age in Space 3 were observed outdoors. Preschool children in Space 7a and 7b were also engaged in free choice activities indoors and outdoors. Lunch served consisted spaghetti with meat sauce, peas, apples, whole grain bread, and milk. After lunch, children one through five years of age rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens. Lights were dimmed and soft music played. Required health and safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Space #7b is operated as an NC Pre-K classroom. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8:00 A.M. to 2:30 P.M., meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, DIAL 4 Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. The substitute lead teacher has completed developmental screenings. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed on the Teaching Strategies GOLD app. NC Pre-K staff information was verified in the NC Pre-K Plan, and all staff members meet requirements for qualifications or have been approved as substitutes by the contracting agency. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. A signed statement of the safe sleep policy was not on file for the two infant files monitored today. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 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. A staff member hired April 30, 2024 has not obtained certification in First Aid. .1102(c) 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. A staff member hired April 30, 2024 has not obtained certification in CPR. .1102(d) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. A fast food cup was observed 6, energy drinks and a soda were observed in space 2. .0901(i) 1827 The Center did not have a person on staff who completed the EPR in Child Care training within the required timeframe and/or documentation of completion of the training was not on file or in a file designated for emergency preparedness and response plan documents. Currently, there is not one on staff who has completed the EPR in Child Care training. .0607(b) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. A signed statement of the smoking and tobacco restriction was not on file for eleven (11) of the thirteen (13) children's files monitored today. .0604(j) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by November 28, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance: For the health and safety of the children, at least one staff member must be trained in Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR). If the trained staff member leaves the center, someone else must complete the training within four months. The trained staff member must create and/or update the EPR Plan in the NC Risk Management Portal within four months of being trained. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. In addition, having hot drinks in the classroom poses a burn hazard if the liquid spills on a child. Please remind all staff to consume food and beverages that do not meet nutrition requirements only during break times away from the children. All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training must be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. Rated License: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to the timelines discussed previously; however, you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP): Starting February 1, 2025, the new and improved Environment Rating Scales – Third Additions will be implemented. Today we discussed the purchase of the new tools, training opportunities, and the NCRLAP website. Please visit www.ncrlap.org for more information and start training your staff now on this new tool! Outreach assessments on the new tools are available now. The visit summary was reviewed with you, signed, and a copy left with you. If you need any assistance please reach out to me, April Lester, Child Care Consultant, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0954 or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, lynette.robbins@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0235. 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 .0901states · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/14/2024 Number Present: 99 Completed Date: 11/14/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Five Star license issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in Education, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 155 children 0-12 years of age and meets enhanced ratios and space. Restrictions were in compliance today. The facility was also monitored for implementing an approved curriculum with children four years of age as required by the star rating; this program uses Creative Curriculum, Guided Edition. Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc., was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office today. The last annual compliance visit was conducted November 23, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned October 29, 2024, and a fire inspection was conducted March 23, 2024; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 87%. Director, N. McDowell, was present and available for consultation today. Eight indoor and four outdoor spaces are approved for use by children; all spaces are in use. Infants in Spaces 5 and 6 were observed in free play activities. Safe sleep practices including documentation were monitored and in compliance today. Children one year of age in Space 1 and two year olds in space 4 also engaged in free play with age appropriate materials. Children two years of age in Space 3 were observed outdoors. Preschool children in Space 7a and 7b were also engaged in free choice activities indoors and outdoors. Lunch served consisted spaghetti with meat sauce, peas, apples, whole grain bread, and milk. After lunch, children one through five years of age rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens. Lights were dimmed and soft music played. Required health and safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Space #7b is operated as an NC Pre-K classroom. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8:00 A.M. to 2:30 P.M., meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, DIAL 4 Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. The substitute lead teacher has completed developmental screenings. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed on the Teaching Strategies GOLD app. NC Pre-K staff information was verified in the NC Pre-K Plan, and all staff members meet requirements for qualifications or have been approved as substitutes by the contracting agency. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. A signed statement of the safe sleep policy was not on file for the two infant files monitored today. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 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. A staff member hired April 30, 2024 has not obtained certification in First Aid. .1102(c) 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. A staff member hired April 30, 2024 has not obtained certification in CPR. .1102(d) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. A fast food cup was observed 6, energy drinks and a soda were observed in space 2. .0901(i) 1827 The Center did not have a person on staff who completed the EPR in Child Care training within the required timeframe and/or documentation of completion of the training was not on file or in a file designated for emergency preparedness and response plan documents. Currently, there is not one on staff who has completed the EPR in Child Care training. .0607(b) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. A signed statement of the smoking and tobacco restriction was not on file for eleven (11) of the thirteen (13) children's files monitored today. .0604(j) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by November 28, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance: For the health and safety of the children, at least one staff member must be trained in Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR). If the trained staff member leaves the center, someone else must complete the training within four months. The trained staff member must create and/or update the EPR Plan in the NC Risk Management Portal within four months of being trained. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. In addition, having hot drinks in the classroom poses a burn hazard if the liquid spills on a child. Please remind all staff to consume food and beverages that do not meet nutrition requirements only during break times away from the children. All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training must be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. Rated License: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to the timelines discussed previously; however, you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP): Starting February 1, 2025, the new and improved Environment Rating Scales – Third Additions will be implemented. Today we discussed the purchase of the new tools, training opportunities, and the NCRLAP website. Please visit www.ncrlap.org for more information and start training your staff now on this new tool! Outreach assessments on the new tools are available now. The visit summary was reviewed with you, signed, and a copy left with you. If you need any assistance please reach out to me, April Lester, Child Care Consultant, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0954 or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, lynette.robbins@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0235. 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 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/14/2024 Number Present: 99 Completed Date: 11/14/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Five Star license issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in Education, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 155 children 0-12 years of age and meets enhanced ratios and space. Restrictions were in compliance today. The facility was also monitored for implementing an approved curriculum with children four years of age as required by the star rating; this program uses Creative Curriculum, Guided Edition. Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc., was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office today. The last annual compliance visit was conducted November 23, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned October 29, 2024, and a fire inspection was conducted March 23, 2024; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 87%. Director, N. McDowell, was present and available for consultation today. Eight indoor and four outdoor spaces are approved for use by children; all spaces are in use. Infants in Spaces 5 and 6 were observed in free play activities. Safe sleep practices including documentation were monitored and in compliance today. Children one year of age in Space 1 and two year olds in space 4 also engaged in free play with age appropriate materials. Children two years of age in Space 3 were observed outdoors. Preschool children in Space 7a and 7b were also engaged in free choice activities indoors and outdoors. Lunch served consisted spaghetti with meat sauce, peas, apples, whole grain bread, and milk. After lunch, children one through five years of age rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens. Lights were dimmed and soft music played. Required health and safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Space #7b is operated as an NC Pre-K classroom. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8:00 A.M. to 2:30 P.M., meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, DIAL 4 Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. The substitute lead teacher has completed developmental screenings. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed on the Teaching Strategies GOLD app. NC Pre-K staff information was verified in the NC Pre-K Plan, and all staff members meet requirements for qualifications or have been approved as substitutes by the contracting agency. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. A signed statement of the safe sleep policy was not on file for the two infant files monitored today. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 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. A staff member hired April 30, 2024 has not obtained certification in First Aid. .1102(c) 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. A staff member hired April 30, 2024 has not obtained certification in CPR. .1102(d) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. A fast food cup was observed 6, energy drinks and a soda were observed in space 2. .0901(i) 1827 The Center did not have a person on staff who completed the EPR in Child Care training within the required timeframe and/or documentation of completion of the training was not on file or in a file designated for emergency preparedness and response plan documents. Currently, there is not one on staff who has completed the EPR in Child Care training. .0607(b) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. A signed statement of the smoking and tobacco restriction was not on file for eleven (11) of the thirteen (13) children's files monitored today. .0604(j) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by November 28, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance: For the health and safety of the children, at least one staff member must be trained in Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR). If the trained staff member leaves the center, someone else must complete the training within four months. The trained staff member must create and/or update the EPR Plan in the NC Risk Management Portal within four months of being trained. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. In addition, having hot drinks in the classroom poses a burn hazard if the liquid spills on a child. Please remind all staff to consume food and beverages that do not meet nutrition requirements only during break times away from the children. All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training must be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. Rated License: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to the timelines discussed previously; however, you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP): Starting February 1, 2025, the new and improved Environment Rating Scales – Third Additions will be implemented. Today we discussed the purchase of the new tools, training opportunities, and the NCRLAP website. Please visit www.ncrlap.org for more information and start training your staff now on this new tool! Outreach assessments on the new tools are available now. The visit summary was reviewed with you, signed, and a copy left with you. If you need any assistance please reach out to me, April Lester, Child Care Consultant, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0954 or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, lynette.robbins@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0235. 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: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/14/2024 Number Present: 99 Completed Date: 11/14/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Five Star license issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in Education, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 155 children 0-12 years of age and meets enhanced ratios and space. Restrictions were in compliance today. The facility was also monitored for implementing an approved curriculum with children four years of age as required by the star rating; this program uses Creative Curriculum, Guided Edition. Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc., was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office today. The last annual compliance visit was conducted November 23, 2023. A Superior sanitation rating was earned October 29, 2024, and a fire inspection was conducted March 23, 2024; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 87%. Director, N. McDowell, was present and available for consultation today. Eight indoor and four outdoor spaces are approved for use by children; all spaces are in use. Infants in Spaces 5 and 6 were observed in free play activities. Safe sleep practices including documentation were monitored and in compliance today. Children one year of age in Space 1 and two year olds in space 4 also engaged in free play with age appropriate materials. Children two years of age in Space 3 were observed outdoors. Preschool children in Space 7a and 7b were also engaged in free choice activities indoors and outdoors. Lunch served consisted spaghetti with meat sauce, peas, apples, whole grain bread, and milk. After lunch, children one through five years of age rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens. Lights were dimmed and soft music played. Required health and safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Space #7b is operated as an NC Pre-K classroom. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8:00 A.M. to 2:30 P.M., meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, DIAL 4 Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. The substitute lead teacher has completed developmental screenings. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed on the Teaching Strategies GOLD app. NC Pre-K staff information was verified in the NC Pre-K Plan, and all staff members meet requirements for qualifications or have been approved as substitutes by the contracting agency. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. A signed statement of the safe sleep policy was not on file for the two infant files monitored today. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 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. A staff member hired April 30, 2024 has not obtained certification in First Aid. .1102(c) 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. A staff member hired April 30, 2024 has not obtained certification in CPR. .1102(d) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. A fast food cup was observed 6, energy drinks and a soda were observed in space 2. .0901(i) 1827 The Center did not have a person on staff who completed the EPR in Child Care training within the required timeframe and/or documentation of completion of the training was not on file or in a file designated for emergency preparedness and response plan documents. Currently, there is not one on staff who has completed the EPR in Child Care training. .0607(b) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. A signed statement of the smoking and tobacco restriction was not on file for eleven (11) of the thirteen (13) children's files monitored today. .0604(j) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by November 28, 2024. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance: For the health and safety of the children, at least one staff member must be trained in Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR). If the trained staff member leaves the center, someone else must complete the training within four months. The trained staff member must create and/or update the EPR Plan in the NC Risk Management Portal within four months of being trained. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. In addition, having hot drinks in the classroom poses a burn hazard if the liquid spills on a child. Please remind all staff to consume food and beverages that do not meet nutrition requirements only during break times away from the children. All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training must be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. Rated License: The “hold harmless” state of rated license reassessments has been extended until the new Quality Rating Improvement System standards are put in place. This means that you will not be required to have a reassessment according to the timelines discussed previously; however, you may request one voluntarily. Today I encouraged you to review information about the new standards as it becomes available and to plan on training your staff on the new assessment tools if you are interested in Environment Rating Scales assessments. I will share more information as I am able. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP): Starting February 1, 2025, the new and improved Environment Rating Scales – Third Additions will be implemented. Today we discussed the purchase of the new tools, training opportunities, and the NCRLAP website. Please visit www.ncrlap.org for more information and start training your staff now on this new tool! Outreach assessments on the new tools are available now. The visit summary was reviewed with you, signed, and a copy left with you. If you need any assistance please reach out to me, April Lester, Child Care Consultant, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0954 or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, lynette.robbins@dhhs.nc.gov, 910-824-0235. 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: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/16/2024 Number Present: 92 Completed Date: 4/16/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 01:00 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. You, Nichole McDowell, Director, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point for the child care administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care experience in a licensed program that can be verified. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 91%. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc. 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. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. Infants were engaged in tummy time, napping, and diapering routines. Sleep checks were completed, recorded, and maintained as required. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Files for new staff were reviewed. Rated license requirements were reviewed to ensure compliance was maintained with current program and education components as well as the quality point. Fire and sanitation inspections remain current. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Leftover diaper cream in space 1 was not returned to the parent after authorization had expired. .0803(12) 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. Plastic bags that could be torn apart were on low shelves below 5 feet in critical height in space 1 where children one year of age are enrolled. .0604(q) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. All new staff records were not made available for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Fourteen (14) children 1 year of age were observed in space 1 with three teachers. The maximum group size for children 1 year of age is twelve (12). 10A NCAC 09 .2818 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 April 30, 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: April Lester, Child Care Consultant 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@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: Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS states this rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers and that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes: for children aged 0-12 months maximum group size is 10 ; for children ages 1-2 years maximum group size is 12 ; for children ages 2-3 years maximum group size is 18; for children ages 3-4 years the maximum group size is 20; for children ages 4-5 AND 5-6 AND 6 years and older the maximum group size is 25. Today you had a group of 26 4- and 5-year-old children (including one five-year-old school age child) with a group size of 26. Although your capacity is 26 for this space and your enhanced ratio for this room is 1:13; the maximum number of children allowed in this space is 25 children. Today we had lengthy discussions on how to correct the issue group size issue. The decision was made to separate space 7 that has a capacity of 50 children at 25 square feet per child, into two spaces. This will allow the program to shift the 4 year old children in space 2 over into the NC PreK building. Then the program will shift two (2) infants children in space 1 to space 5 with a maximum capacity of 10. Then four (4) one year old children in space 5 will be moved to space 4 and that room will be a toddler classroom. Space 4 children who are 2 years of age will move to space 3. Space 3 children who are three years of age to space 2. Please take note of the capacity for each space: Space 1 – one year olds – 1/6 or 2/12 Space 2 – three year olds – 1/10 or 2/20 Space 3 – two year olds – 1/9 or 2/18 Space 4 – one year olds – 1/6 or 2/12 Space 5 – infants and one year olds – 1/5 or 2/10 Space 6 – infants – 1/5 or 2/8 **not 8 is the max capacity in this space due to square footage. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803 states prescribed medications shall be stored in the original containers in which they were dispensed with the pharmacy labels. The diazepam medication in Space three (3) was not stored in the prescription box with a pharmacy label on the original container. For the safety of the children, ensure any plastic bags used for storage are kept inaccessible to children under the age of three years old by keeping them at a minimum height of five feet off the floor. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed, printed, and emailed to you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, 910-824-0235, lynette.robbins@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 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/16/2024 Number Present: 92 Completed Date: 4/16/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 01:00 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. You, Nichole McDowell, Director, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point for the child care administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care experience in a licensed program that can be verified. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 91%. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc. 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. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. Infants were engaged in tummy time, napping, and diapering routines. Sleep checks were completed, recorded, and maintained as required. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Files for new staff were reviewed. Rated license requirements were reviewed to ensure compliance was maintained with current program and education components as well as the quality point. Fire and sanitation inspections remain current. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Leftover diaper cream in space 1 was not returned to the parent after authorization had expired. .0803(12) 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. Plastic bags that could be torn apart were on low shelves below 5 feet in critical height in space 1 where children one year of age are enrolled. .0604(q) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. All new staff records were not made available for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Fourteen (14) children 1 year of age were observed in space 1 with three teachers. The maximum group size for children 1 year of age is twelve (12). 10A NCAC 09 .2818 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 April 30, 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: April Lester, Child Care Consultant 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@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: Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS states this rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers and that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes: for children aged 0-12 months maximum group size is 10 ; for children ages 1-2 years maximum group size is 12 ; for children ages 2-3 years maximum group size is 18; for children ages 3-4 years the maximum group size is 20; for children ages 4-5 AND 5-6 AND 6 years and older the maximum group size is 25. Today you had a group of 26 4- and 5-year-old children (including one five-year-old school age child) with a group size of 26. Although your capacity is 26 for this space and your enhanced ratio for this room is 1:13; the maximum number of children allowed in this space is 25 children. Today we had lengthy discussions on how to correct the issue group size issue. The decision was made to separate space 7 that has a capacity of 50 children at 25 square feet per child, into two spaces. This will allow the program to shift the 4 year old children in space 2 over into the NC PreK building. Then the program will shift two (2) infants children in space 1 to space 5 with a maximum capacity of 10. Then four (4) one year old children in space 5 will be moved to space 4 and that room will be a toddler classroom. Space 4 children who are 2 years of age will move to space 3. Space 3 children who are three years of age to space 2. Please take note of the capacity for each space: Space 1 – one year olds – 1/6 or 2/12 Space 2 – three year olds – 1/10 or 2/20 Space 3 – two year olds – 1/9 or 2/18 Space 4 – one year olds – 1/6 or 2/12 Space 5 – infants and one year olds – 1/5 or 2/10 Space 6 – infants – 1/5 or 2/8 **not 8 is the max capacity in this space due to square footage. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803 states prescribed medications shall be stored in the original containers in which they were dispensed with the pharmacy labels. The diazepam medication in Space three (3) was not stored in the prescription box with a pharmacy label on the original container. For the safety of the children, ensure any plastic bags used for storage are kept inaccessible to children under the age of three years old by keeping them at a minimum height of five feet off the floor. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed, printed, and emailed to you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, 910-824-0235, lynette.robbins@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: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/16/2024 Number Present: 92 Completed Date: 4/16/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 01:00 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. You, Nichole McDowell, Director, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point for the child care administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care experience in a licensed program that can be verified. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 91%. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc. 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. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. Infants were engaged in tummy time, napping, and diapering routines. Sleep checks were completed, recorded, and maintained as required. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Files for new staff were reviewed. Rated license requirements were reviewed to ensure compliance was maintained with current program and education components as well as the quality point. Fire and sanitation inspections remain current. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Leftover diaper cream in space 1 was not returned to the parent after authorization had expired. .0803(12) 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. Plastic bags that could be torn apart were on low shelves below 5 feet in critical height in space 1 where children one year of age are enrolled. .0604(q) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. All new staff records were not made available for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Fourteen (14) children 1 year of age were observed in space 1 with three teachers. The maximum group size for children 1 year of age is twelve (12). 10A NCAC 09 .2818 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 April 30, 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: April Lester, Child Care Consultant 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@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: Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS states this rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers and that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes: for children aged 0-12 months maximum group size is 10 ; for children ages 1-2 years maximum group size is 12 ; for children ages 2-3 years maximum group size is 18; for children ages 3-4 years the maximum group size is 20; for children ages 4-5 AND 5-6 AND 6 years and older the maximum group size is 25. Today you had a group of 26 4- and 5-year-old children (including one five-year-old school age child) with a group size of 26. Although your capacity is 26 for this space and your enhanced ratio for this room is 1:13; the maximum number of children allowed in this space is 25 children. Today we had lengthy discussions on how to correct the issue group size issue. The decision was made to separate space 7 that has a capacity of 50 children at 25 square feet per child, into two spaces. This will allow the program to shift the 4 year old children in space 2 over into the NC PreK building. Then the program will shift two (2) infants children in space 1 to space 5 with a maximum capacity of 10. Then four (4) one year old children in space 5 will be moved to space 4 and that room will be a toddler classroom. Space 4 children who are 2 years of age will move to space 3. Space 3 children who are three years of age to space 2. Please take note of the capacity for each space: Space 1 – one year olds – 1/6 or 2/12 Space 2 – three year olds – 1/10 or 2/20 Space 3 – two year olds – 1/9 or 2/18 Space 4 – one year olds – 1/6 or 2/12 Space 5 – infants and one year olds – 1/5 or 2/10 Space 6 – infants – 1/5 or 2/8 **not 8 is the max capacity in this space due to square footage. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803 states prescribed medications shall be stored in the original containers in which they were dispensed with the pharmacy labels. The diazepam medication in Space three (3) was not stored in the prescription box with a pharmacy label on the original container. For the safety of the children, ensure any plastic bags used for storage are kept inaccessible to children under the age of three years old by keeping them at a minimum height of five feet off the floor. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed, printed, and emailed to you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, 910-824-0235, lynette.robbins@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: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/16/2024 Number Present: 92 Completed Date: 4/16/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 01:00 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. You, Nichole McDowell, Director, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point for the child care administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care experience in a licensed program that can be verified. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 91%. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc. 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. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. Infants were engaged in tummy time, napping, and diapering routines. Sleep checks were completed, recorded, and maintained as required. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Files for new staff were reviewed. Rated license requirements were reviewed to ensure compliance was maintained with current program and education components as well as the quality point. Fire and sanitation inspections remain current. The following violations were observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Leftover diaper cream in space 1 was not returned to the parent after authorization had expired. .0803(12) 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. Plastic bags that could be torn apart were on low shelves below 5 feet in critical height in space 1 where children one year of age are enrolled. .0604(q) 1043 All staff records, except financial records, were not made available for review. All new staff records were not made available for review. G.S. 110-91( 9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Fourteen (14) children 1 year of age were observed in space 1 with three teachers. The maximum group size for children 1 year of age is twelve (12). 10A NCAC 09 .2818 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 April 30, 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: April Lester, Child Care Consultant 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@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: Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2818 ENHANCED STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR A RATED LICENSE FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS states this rule shall apply to evaluating the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes for a rated license for child care centers and that the center shall comply with the following staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes: for children aged 0-12 months maximum group size is 10 ; for children ages 1-2 years maximum group size is 12 ; for children ages 2-3 years maximum group size is 18; for children ages 3-4 years the maximum group size is 20; for children ages 4-5 AND 5-6 AND 6 years and older the maximum group size is 25. Today you had a group of 26 4- and 5-year-old children (including one five-year-old school age child) with a group size of 26. Although your capacity is 26 for this space and your enhanced ratio for this room is 1:13; the maximum number of children allowed in this space is 25 children. Today we had lengthy discussions on how to correct the issue group size issue. The decision was made to separate space 7 that has a capacity of 50 children at 25 square feet per child, into two spaces. This will allow the program to shift the 4 year old children in space 2 over into the NC PreK building. Then the program will shift two (2) infants children in space 1 to space 5 with a maximum capacity of 10. Then four (4) one year old children in space 5 will be moved to space 4 and that room will be a toddler classroom. Space 4 children who are 2 years of age will move to space 3. Space 3 children who are three years of age to space 2. Please take note of the capacity for each space: Space 1 – one year olds – 1/6 or 2/12 Space 2 – three year olds – 1/10 or 2/20 Space 3 – two year olds – 1/9 or 2/18 Space 4 – one year olds – 1/6 or 2/12 Space 5 – infants and one year olds – 1/5 or 2/10 Space 6 – infants – 1/5 or 2/8 **not 8 is the max capacity in this space due to square footage. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0803 states prescribed medications shall be stored in the original containers in which they were dispensed with the pharmacy labels. The diazepam medication in Space three (3) was not stored in the prescription box with a pharmacy label on the original container. For the safety of the children, ensure any plastic bags used for storage are kept inaccessible to children under the age of three years old by keeping them at a minimum height of five feet off the floor. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed, printed, and emailed to you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, 910-824-0235, lynette.robbins@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 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/29/2023 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 11/29/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Five Star license issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in Education, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 155 children 0-12 years of age and meets enhanced ratios and space. Restrictions were in compliance today. The facility was also monitored for implementing an approved curriculum with children four years of age as required by the star rating; this program uses Creative Curriculum, Guided Edition. Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc., the corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office on November 27, 2023. The last annual compliance visit was conducted December 15, 2022. A Superior sanitation rating was earned June 29, 2023, and a fire inspection was conducted March 22, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 93%. Assistant Director, D. Gerard, and Owner, B. Smith, were present and available for consultation today. Seven indoor and four outdoor spaces are approved for use by children; only six indoor spaces are currently in use. Infants in Space #6 were observed in individual feeding routines and play activities. Safe sleep practices including documentation were monitored and in compliance today. Children one year of age in Space #5 and children two years of age in Space #4 were observed eating a breakfast of cereal, fruit and milk. Children two and three years of age in Space #3 were observed looking at books on the carpet as they waited to transition to a circle time activity. Children two through four years of age in Space #2 were observed in free choice activities including working with puzzles, building with blocks and pretending to cook and serve food. Preschool children in Space #7 were also engaged in free choice activities, writing on chalk boards with chalk, painting gingerbread men, pretending to make pizza, building a castle in the block center, and playing with small, plastic dinosaurs. Next, this group was observed on one of the fenced in playgrounds, playing with various portable gross motor materials. Lunch served consisted of breaded corn dog nuggets, baked beans, pears and milk. After lunch, children one through five years of age rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens. Lights were dimmed and soft music played. Required health and safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Space #7 is operated as an NC Pre-K classroom. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8:00 A.M. to 2:30 P.M., meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, DIAL 4 Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. The substitute lead teacher has completed developmental screenings. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed on the Teaching Strategies GOLD app. NC Pre-K staff information was verified in the NC Pre-K Plan, and all staff members meet requirements for qualifications or have been approved as substitutes by the contracting agency. The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale-Revised (ECERS-R) score received on 5/21/2019 was 6.05. A three year reassessment was not conducted due to COVID-19, however Ms. Gerard stated she understood the NC Pre-K classroom must score at least a 5.0 on the ECERS-R when the next reassessment is required. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. Incorrect staff/child ratios were posted in Spaces #2 and 3. A ratio chart was not posted at all in Space #7. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Seven protruding bolts were observed in the black, plastic border on the playground used by children two and three years of age. .0601(c) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Three electrical outlets not in use were not covered in Space #6. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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. A plastic grocery bag was observed accessible to children under three years of age in Space #6, and several plastic Ziploc bags were observed accessible to children under three years of age in Space #3. .0604(q) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. A school age child was transported by the facility's bus on seven different occasions in November 2023 without a photograph in the bus. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 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 health assessment was not on file for one of the ten children's files monitored today. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1769 The health assessment did not include a dental screening. One of the two NC Pre-K children's files monitored today did not include a dental screening. .3005 (a)(5) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were recorded April 10, 2023 and August 17, 2023; a drill has not been recorded since August 17, 2023. These drills were not practiced at least every three months as required. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A staff member who began employment July 11, 2022 did not complete health and safety training until October 28, 2023. .1102(a) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by December 13, 2023. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited For the safety of the children, electrical outlets not in use must be covered by an outlet cover or a piece of furniture children cannot move. In addition, plastic bags must be kept inaccessible to children under three years of age by storing at a minimum height of five feet, as they are strangulation and choking hazard. Today I strongly urged you to issue staff reminders and conduct observations in classrooms to ensure compliance. Lockdown or shelter-in-place drills should be practiced at least every three months as part of your facility's Emergency and Preparedness and Response (EPR) plan. These drills should be documented on the Emergency Drill Record. Frequent practice will allow children and staff members to be familiar with the steps to take to keep everyone safe in an emergency. Today I suggested you plan the dates and times of your drills in advance and use calendar reminders to ensure they are completed at least every three months. Remember to submit a completed drill record showing a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill in November 2023 with your compliance letter. The health and safety of individual children requires that information regarding each child in care be kept and available when needed. Children's records consist of various documentation such as a child's medical and immunization history, emergency medical care information and parental permission to participate in specific activities. This information is the basis for meeting each child's physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs. Today I encouraged you to audit the NC Pre-K children’s files for completion as some additional items are required for this group of children. Remember to submit copies of D. Jacobs’ health assessment and dental screening with your compliance letter. For each child being transported, identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information, and a copy of the emergency medical care information form required shall be in the vehicle. It is critical for staff and emergency personnel to have access to this information in the event of an accident or other type of emergency. Today I urged you to let parents know you cannot transport their children without a photograph in the vehicle. You stated you would obtain the missing photograph today and ensure it is placed in the vehicle prior to transporting the child again. Please send me a copy to verify compliance. As protruding bolts were observed on the black mulch barrier, I suggest that you check them on a regular basis to determine if they need to be pushed back down in the ground. Protrusions are considered safety hazards as children may trip over them or fall on them. Bolts should be hammered down flush with the border to ensure safety. Today we discussed that posted ratio charts must be accurate for the youngest child enrolled in the group at the current time. It may be helpful to have multiple ratio charts in the plastic sleeves in the classrooms so you can easily change them out when enrollment shifts. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding cleaning, organizing and adding to the materials in Spaces #5 and 6 to ensure that multiple children have opportunities to engage in the same activity. When children under three years old are in care, each learning center shall have developmentally appropriate toys and activities for each child to promote the child’s emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language development, and communication and cognitive development. In rooms for infants and toddlers, toys must be organized by type. Be sure to label the toys bins and shelves with words so adults can easily sort and put away toys; toys can be grouped in the following categories: dolls, blocks, pretend play, books, sensory and musical. Materials shall be offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. An open area that allows freedom of movement shall be available, both indoors and outdoors, for infants and for toddlers. Today I suggested you inventory materials and see if you have any extra or rotating materials available in other classrooms to “beef up” your supply in these two spaces. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding nutrition rules. As discussed, Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. In addition, having hot drinks in the classroom poses a burn hazard if the liquid spills on a child. Please remind all staff to consume food and beverages that do not meet nutrition requirements only during break times away from the children. Rated License Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due in 2022, therefore you have been placed in “Cohort 2” of the cohort model of resuming rated license reassessments. This means your planning/preparation year will be 7/1/24-6/30/25, and your next reassessment will be due between 7/1/25 and 6/30/26. As you typically have the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, we discussed that you will have the option to request an ERS assessment during your planning year if you wish, or you may wait until your reassessment year. In the meantime, I encourage you to use resources such as the NCRLAP website, Smart Start of Brunswick County, and Region 4 CCR&R to prepare for your reassessment. Your consultant will be in touch regarding timelines as your planning year approaches. Information from DCDEE WORKS was reviewed with you and noted on the Staff and Training Worksheet today. As discussed, to remain eligible for six points, you must ensure all lead teachers have at least the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential (NCECC) or Equivalency, at least 50% have at least an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) and two years of experience. Reminders You must schedule and obtain an approved fire inspection by March 22, 2024. Remember to send a copy to your consultant within one week as required. Child Care Rules were revised October 1, 2023, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Sanitation rules were also readopted July 1, 2023. I strongly urge you to review the training information at https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/op-training.htm, and contact Children’s Environmental Health Services with any questions. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@dhhs.nc.gov. 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: ratio. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0901states · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/29/2023 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 11/29/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Five Star license issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in Education, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 155 children 0-12 years of age and meets enhanced ratios and space. Restrictions were in compliance today. The facility was also monitored for implementing an approved curriculum with children four years of age as required by the star rating; this program uses Creative Curriculum, Guided Edition. Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc., the corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office on November 27, 2023. The last annual compliance visit was conducted December 15, 2022. A Superior sanitation rating was earned June 29, 2023, and a fire inspection was conducted March 22, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 93%. Assistant Director, D. Gerard, and Owner, B. Smith, were present and available for consultation today. Seven indoor and four outdoor spaces are approved for use by children; only six indoor spaces are currently in use. Infants in Space #6 were observed in individual feeding routines and play activities. Safe sleep practices including documentation were monitored and in compliance today. Children one year of age in Space #5 and children two years of age in Space #4 were observed eating a breakfast of cereal, fruit and milk. Children two and three years of age in Space #3 were observed looking at books on the carpet as they waited to transition to a circle time activity. Children two through four years of age in Space #2 were observed in free choice activities including working with puzzles, building with blocks and pretending to cook and serve food. Preschool children in Space #7 were also engaged in free choice activities, writing on chalk boards with chalk, painting gingerbread men, pretending to make pizza, building a castle in the block center, and playing with small, plastic dinosaurs. Next, this group was observed on one of the fenced in playgrounds, playing with various portable gross motor materials. Lunch served consisted of breaded corn dog nuggets, baked beans, pears and milk. After lunch, children one through five years of age rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens. Lights were dimmed and soft music played. Required health and safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Space #7 is operated as an NC Pre-K classroom. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8:00 A.M. to 2:30 P.M., meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, DIAL 4 Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. The substitute lead teacher has completed developmental screenings. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed on the Teaching Strategies GOLD app. NC Pre-K staff information was verified in the NC Pre-K Plan, and all staff members meet requirements for qualifications or have been approved as substitutes by the contracting agency. The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale-Revised (ECERS-R) score received on 5/21/2019 was 6.05. A three year reassessment was not conducted due to COVID-19, however Ms. Gerard stated she understood the NC Pre-K classroom must score at least a 5.0 on the ECERS-R when the next reassessment is required. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. Incorrect staff/child ratios were posted in Spaces #2 and 3. A ratio chart was not posted at all in Space #7. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Seven protruding bolts were observed in the black, plastic border on the playground used by children two and three years of age. .0601(c) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Three electrical outlets not in use were not covered in Space #6. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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. A plastic grocery bag was observed accessible to children under three years of age in Space #6, and several plastic Ziploc bags were observed accessible to children under three years of age in Space #3. .0604(q) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. A school age child was transported by the facility's bus on seven different occasions in November 2023 without a photograph in the bus. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 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 health assessment was not on file for one of the ten children's files monitored today. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1769 The health assessment did not include a dental screening. One of the two NC Pre-K children's files monitored today did not include a dental screening. .3005 (a)(5) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were recorded April 10, 2023 and August 17, 2023; a drill has not been recorded since August 17, 2023. These drills were not practiced at least every three months as required. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A staff member who began employment July 11, 2022 did not complete health and safety training until October 28, 2023. .1102(a) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by December 13, 2023. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited For the safety of the children, electrical outlets not in use must be covered by an outlet cover or a piece of furniture children cannot move. In addition, plastic bags must be kept inaccessible to children under three years of age by storing at a minimum height of five feet, as they are strangulation and choking hazard. Today I strongly urged you to issue staff reminders and conduct observations in classrooms to ensure compliance. Lockdown or shelter-in-place drills should be practiced at least every three months as part of your facility's Emergency and Preparedness and Response (EPR) plan. These drills should be documented on the Emergency Drill Record. Frequent practice will allow children and staff members to be familiar with the steps to take to keep everyone safe in an emergency. Today I suggested you plan the dates and times of your drills in advance and use calendar reminders to ensure they are completed at least every three months. Remember to submit a completed drill record showing a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill in November 2023 with your compliance letter. The health and safety of individual children requires that information regarding each child in care be kept and available when needed. Children's records consist of various documentation such as a child's medical and immunization history, emergency medical care information and parental permission to participate in specific activities. This information is the basis for meeting each child's physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs. Today I encouraged you to audit the NC Pre-K children’s files for completion as some additional items are required for this group of children. Remember to submit copies of D. Jacobs’ health assessment and dental screening with your compliance letter. For each child being transported, identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information, and a copy of the emergency medical care information form required shall be in the vehicle. It is critical for staff and emergency personnel to have access to this information in the event of an accident or other type of emergency. Today I urged you to let parents know you cannot transport their children without a photograph in the vehicle. You stated you would obtain the missing photograph today and ensure it is placed in the vehicle prior to transporting the child again. Please send me a copy to verify compliance. As protruding bolts were observed on the black mulch barrier, I suggest that you check them on a regular basis to determine if they need to be pushed back down in the ground. Protrusions are considered safety hazards as children may trip over them or fall on them. Bolts should be hammered down flush with the border to ensure safety. Today we discussed that posted ratio charts must be accurate for the youngest child enrolled in the group at the current time. It may be helpful to have multiple ratio charts in the plastic sleeves in the classrooms so you can easily change them out when enrollment shifts. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding cleaning, organizing and adding to the materials in Spaces #5 and 6 to ensure that multiple children have opportunities to engage in the same activity. When children under three years old are in care, each learning center shall have developmentally appropriate toys and activities for each child to promote the child’s emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language development, and communication and cognitive development. In rooms for infants and toddlers, toys must be organized by type. Be sure to label the toys bins and shelves with words so adults can easily sort and put away toys; toys can be grouped in the following categories: dolls, blocks, pretend play, books, sensory and musical. Materials shall be offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. An open area that allows freedom of movement shall be available, both indoors and outdoors, for infants and for toddlers. Today I suggested you inventory materials and see if you have any extra or rotating materials available in other classrooms to “beef up” your supply in these two spaces. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding nutrition rules. As discussed, Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. In addition, having hot drinks in the classroom poses a burn hazard if the liquid spills on a child. Please remind all staff to consume food and beverages that do not meet nutrition requirements only during break times away from the children. Rated License Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due in 2022, therefore you have been placed in “Cohort 2” of the cohort model of resuming rated license reassessments. This means your planning/preparation year will be 7/1/24-6/30/25, and your next reassessment will be due between 7/1/25 and 6/30/26. As you typically have the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, we discussed that you will have the option to request an ERS assessment during your planning year if you wish, or you may wait until your reassessment year. In the meantime, I encourage you to use resources such as the NCRLAP website, Smart Start of Brunswick County, and Region 4 CCR&R to prepare for your reassessment. Your consultant will be in touch regarding timelines as your planning year approaches. Information from DCDEE WORKS was reviewed with you and noted on the Staff and Training Worksheet today. As discussed, to remain eligible for six points, you must ensure all lead teachers have at least the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential (NCECC) or Equivalency, at least 50% have at least an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) and two years of experience. Reminders You must schedule and obtain an approved fire inspection by March 22, 2024. Remember to send a copy to your consultant within one week as required. Child Care Rules were revised October 1, 2023, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Sanitation rules were also readopted July 1, 2023. I strongly urge you to review the training information at https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/op-training.htm, and contact Children’s Environmental Health Services with any questions. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .1003 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/29/2023 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 11/29/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Five Star license issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in Education, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 155 children 0-12 years of age and meets enhanced ratios and space. Restrictions were in compliance today. The facility was also monitored for implementing an approved curriculum with children four years of age as required by the star rating; this program uses Creative Curriculum, Guided Edition. Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc., the corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office on November 27, 2023. The last annual compliance visit was conducted December 15, 2022. A Superior sanitation rating was earned June 29, 2023, and a fire inspection was conducted March 22, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 93%. Assistant Director, D. Gerard, and Owner, B. Smith, were present and available for consultation today. Seven indoor and four outdoor spaces are approved for use by children; only six indoor spaces are currently in use. Infants in Space #6 were observed in individual feeding routines and play activities. Safe sleep practices including documentation were monitored and in compliance today. Children one year of age in Space #5 and children two years of age in Space #4 were observed eating a breakfast of cereal, fruit and milk. Children two and three years of age in Space #3 were observed looking at books on the carpet as they waited to transition to a circle time activity. Children two through four years of age in Space #2 were observed in free choice activities including working with puzzles, building with blocks and pretending to cook and serve food. Preschool children in Space #7 were also engaged in free choice activities, writing on chalk boards with chalk, painting gingerbread men, pretending to make pizza, building a castle in the block center, and playing with small, plastic dinosaurs. Next, this group was observed on one of the fenced in playgrounds, playing with various portable gross motor materials. Lunch served consisted of breaded corn dog nuggets, baked beans, pears and milk. After lunch, children one through five years of age rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens. Lights were dimmed and soft music played. Required health and safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Space #7 is operated as an NC Pre-K classroom. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8:00 A.M. to 2:30 P.M., meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, DIAL 4 Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. The substitute lead teacher has completed developmental screenings. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed on the Teaching Strategies GOLD app. NC Pre-K staff information was verified in the NC Pre-K Plan, and all staff members meet requirements for qualifications or have been approved as substitutes by the contracting agency. The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale-Revised (ECERS-R) score received on 5/21/2019 was 6.05. A three year reassessment was not conducted due to COVID-19, however Ms. Gerard stated she understood the NC Pre-K classroom must score at least a 5.0 on the ECERS-R when the next reassessment is required. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. Incorrect staff/child ratios were posted in Spaces #2 and 3. A ratio chart was not posted at all in Space #7. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Seven protruding bolts were observed in the black, plastic border on the playground used by children two and three years of age. .0601(c) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Three electrical outlets not in use were not covered in Space #6. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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. A plastic grocery bag was observed accessible to children under three years of age in Space #6, and several plastic Ziploc bags were observed accessible to children under three years of age in Space #3. .0604(q) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. A school age child was transported by the facility's bus on seven different occasions in November 2023 without a photograph in the bus. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 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 health assessment was not on file for one of the ten children's files monitored today. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1769 The health assessment did not include a dental screening. One of the two NC Pre-K children's files monitored today did not include a dental screening. .3005 (a)(5) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were recorded April 10, 2023 and August 17, 2023; a drill has not been recorded since August 17, 2023. These drills were not practiced at least every three months as required. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A staff member who began employment July 11, 2022 did not complete health and safety training until October 28, 2023. .1102(a) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by December 13, 2023. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited For the safety of the children, electrical outlets not in use must be covered by an outlet cover or a piece of furniture children cannot move. In addition, plastic bags must be kept inaccessible to children under three years of age by storing at a minimum height of five feet, as they are strangulation and choking hazard. Today I strongly urged you to issue staff reminders and conduct observations in classrooms to ensure compliance. Lockdown or shelter-in-place drills should be practiced at least every three months as part of your facility's Emergency and Preparedness and Response (EPR) plan. These drills should be documented on the Emergency Drill Record. Frequent practice will allow children and staff members to be familiar with the steps to take to keep everyone safe in an emergency. Today I suggested you plan the dates and times of your drills in advance and use calendar reminders to ensure they are completed at least every three months. Remember to submit a completed drill record showing a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill in November 2023 with your compliance letter. The health and safety of individual children requires that information regarding each child in care be kept and available when needed. Children's records consist of various documentation such as a child's medical and immunization history, emergency medical care information and parental permission to participate in specific activities. This information is the basis for meeting each child's physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs. Today I encouraged you to audit the NC Pre-K children’s files for completion as some additional items are required for this group of children. Remember to submit copies of D. Jacobs’ health assessment and dental screening with your compliance letter. For each child being transported, identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information, and a copy of the emergency medical care information form required shall be in the vehicle. It is critical for staff and emergency personnel to have access to this information in the event of an accident or other type of emergency. Today I urged you to let parents know you cannot transport their children without a photograph in the vehicle. You stated you would obtain the missing photograph today and ensure it is placed in the vehicle prior to transporting the child again. Please send me a copy to verify compliance. As protruding bolts were observed on the black mulch barrier, I suggest that you check them on a regular basis to determine if they need to be pushed back down in the ground. Protrusions are considered safety hazards as children may trip over them or fall on them. Bolts should be hammered down flush with the border to ensure safety. Today we discussed that posted ratio charts must be accurate for the youngest child enrolled in the group at the current time. It may be helpful to have multiple ratio charts in the plastic sleeves in the classrooms so you can easily change them out when enrollment shifts. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding cleaning, organizing and adding to the materials in Spaces #5 and 6 to ensure that multiple children have opportunities to engage in the same activity. When children under three years old are in care, each learning center shall have developmentally appropriate toys and activities for each child to promote the child’s emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language development, and communication and cognitive development. In rooms for infants and toddlers, toys must be organized by type. Be sure to label the toys bins and shelves with words so adults can easily sort and put away toys; toys can be grouped in the following categories: dolls, blocks, pretend play, books, sensory and musical. Materials shall be offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. An open area that allows freedom of movement shall be available, both indoors and outdoors, for infants and for toddlers. Today I suggested you inventory materials and see if you have any extra or rotating materials available in other classrooms to “beef up” your supply in these two spaces. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding nutrition rules. As discussed, Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. In addition, having hot drinks in the classroom poses a burn hazard if the liquid spills on a child. Please remind all staff to consume food and beverages that do not meet nutrition requirements only during break times away from the children. Rated License Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due in 2022, therefore you have been placed in “Cohort 2” of the cohort model of resuming rated license reassessments. This means your planning/preparation year will be 7/1/24-6/30/25, and your next reassessment will be due between 7/1/25 and 6/30/26. As you typically have the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, we discussed that you will have the option to request an ERS assessment during your planning year if you wish, or you may wait until your reassessment year. In the meantime, I encourage you to use resources such as the NCRLAP website, Smart Start of Brunswick County, and Region 4 CCR&R to prepare for your reassessment. Your consultant will be in touch regarding timelines as your planning year approaches. Information from DCDEE WORKS was reviewed with you and noted on the Staff and Training Worksheet today. As discussed, to remain eligible for six points, you must ensure all lead teachers have at least the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential (NCECC) or Equivalency, at least 50% have at least an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) and two years of experience. Reminders You must schedule and obtain an approved fire inspection by March 22, 2024. Remember to send a copy to your consultant within one week as required. Child Care Rules were revised October 1, 2023, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Sanitation rules were also readopted July 1, 2023. I strongly urge you to review the training information at https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/op-training.htm, and contact Children’s Environmental Health Services with any questions. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/29/2023 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 11/29/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Five Star license issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in Education, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 155 children 0-12 years of age and meets enhanced ratios and space. Restrictions were in compliance today. The facility was also monitored for implementing an approved curriculum with children four years of age as required by the star rating; this program uses Creative Curriculum, Guided Edition. Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc., the corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office on November 27, 2023. The last annual compliance visit was conducted December 15, 2022. A Superior sanitation rating was earned June 29, 2023, and a fire inspection was conducted March 22, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 93%. Assistant Director, D. Gerard, and Owner, B. Smith, were present and available for consultation today. Seven indoor and four outdoor spaces are approved for use by children; only six indoor spaces are currently in use. Infants in Space #6 were observed in individual feeding routines and play activities. Safe sleep practices including documentation were monitored and in compliance today. Children one year of age in Space #5 and children two years of age in Space #4 were observed eating a breakfast of cereal, fruit and milk. Children two and three years of age in Space #3 were observed looking at books on the carpet as they waited to transition to a circle time activity. Children two through four years of age in Space #2 were observed in free choice activities including working with puzzles, building with blocks and pretending to cook and serve food. Preschool children in Space #7 were also engaged in free choice activities, writing on chalk boards with chalk, painting gingerbread men, pretending to make pizza, building a castle in the block center, and playing with small, plastic dinosaurs. Next, this group was observed on one of the fenced in playgrounds, playing with various portable gross motor materials. Lunch served consisted of breaded corn dog nuggets, baked beans, pears and milk. After lunch, children one through five years of age rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens. Lights were dimmed and soft music played. Required health and safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Space #7 is operated as an NC Pre-K classroom. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8:00 A.M. to 2:30 P.M., meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, DIAL 4 Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. The substitute lead teacher has completed developmental screenings. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed on the Teaching Strategies GOLD app. NC Pre-K staff information was verified in the NC Pre-K Plan, and all staff members meet requirements for qualifications or have been approved as substitutes by the contracting agency. The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale-Revised (ECERS-R) score received on 5/21/2019 was 6.05. A three year reassessment was not conducted due to COVID-19, however Ms. Gerard stated she understood the NC Pre-K classroom must score at least a 5.0 on the ECERS-R when the next reassessment is required. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. Incorrect staff/child ratios were posted in Spaces #2 and 3. A ratio chart was not posted at all in Space #7. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Seven protruding bolts were observed in the black, plastic border on the playground used by children two and three years of age. .0601(c) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Three electrical outlets not in use were not covered in Space #6. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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. A plastic grocery bag was observed accessible to children under three years of age in Space #6, and several plastic Ziploc bags were observed accessible to children under three years of age in Space #3. .0604(q) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. A school age child was transported by the facility's bus on seven different occasions in November 2023 without a photograph in the bus. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 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 health assessment was not on file for one of the ten children's files monitored today. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1769 The health assessment did not include a dental screening. One of the two NC Pre-K children's files monitored today did not include a dental screening. .3005 (a)(5) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were recorded April 10, 2023 and August 17, 2023; a drill has not been recorded since August 17, 2023. These drills were not practiced at least every three months as required. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A staff member who began employment July 11, 2022 did not complete health and safety training until October 28, 2023. .1102(a) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by December 13, 2023. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited For the safety of the children, electrical outlets not in use must be covered by an outlet cover or a piece of furniture children cannot move. In addition, plastic bags must be kept inaccessible to children under three years of age by storing at a minimum height of five feet, as they are strangulation and choking hazard. Today I strongly urged you to issue staff reminders and conduct observations in classrooms to ensure compliance. Lockdown or shelter-in-place drills should be practiced at least every three months as part of your facility's Emergency and Preparedness and Response (EPR) plan. These drills should be documented on the Emergency Drill Record. Frequent practice will allow children and staff members to be familiar with the steps to take to keep everyone safe in an emergency. Today I suggested you plan the dates and times of your drills in advance and use calendar reminders to ensure they are completed at least every three months. Remember to submit a completed drill record showing a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill in November 2023 with your compliance letter. The health and safety of individual children requires that information regarding each child in care be kept and available when needed. Children's records consist of various documentation such as a child's medical and immunization history, emergency medical care information and parental permission to participate in specific activities. This information is the basis for meeting each child's physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs. Today I encouraged you to audit the NC Pre-K children’s files for completion as some additional items are required for this group of children. Remember to submit copies of D. Jacobs’ health assessment and dental screening with your compliance letter. For each child being transported, identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information, and a copy of the emergency medical care information form required shall be in the vehicle. It is critical for staff and emergency personnel to have access to this information in the event of an accident or other type of emergency. Today I urged you to let parents know you cannot transport their children without a photograph in the vehicle. You stated you would obtain the missing photograph today and ensure it is placed in the vehicle prior to transporting the child again. Please send me a copy to verify compliance. As protruding bolts were observed on the black mulch barrier, I suggest that you check them on a regular basis to determine if they need to be pushed back down in the ground. Protrusions are considered safety hazards as children may trip over them or fall on them. Bolts should be hammered down flush with the border to ensure safety. Today we discussed that posted ratio charts must be accurate for the youngest child enrolled in the group at the current time. It may be helpful to have multiple ratio charts in the plastic sleeves in the classrooms so you can easily change them out when enrollment shifts. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding cleaning, organizing and adding to the materials in Spaces #5 and 6 to ensure that multiple children have opportunities to engage in the same activity. When children under three years old are in care, each learning center shall have developmentally appropriate toys and activities for each child to promote the child’s emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language development, and communication and cognitive development. In rooms for infants and toddlers, toys must be organized by type. Be sure to label the toys bins and shelves with words so adults can easily sort and put away toys; toys can be grouped in the following categories: dolls, blocks, pretend play, books, sensory and musical. Materials shall be offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. An open area that allows freedom of movement shall be available, both indoors and outdoors, for infants and for toddlers. Today I suggested you inventory materials and see if you have any extra or rotating materials available in other classrooms to “beef up” your supply in these two spaces. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding nutrition rules. As discussed, Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. In addition, having hot drinks in the classroom poses a burn hazard if the liquid spills on a child. Please remind all staff to consume food and beverages that do not meet nutrition requirements only during break times away from the children. Rated License Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due in 2022, therefore you have been placed in “Cohort 2” of the cohort model of resuming rated license reassessments. This means your planning/preparation year will be 7/1/24-6/30/25, and your next reassessment will be due between 7/1/25 and 6/30/26. As you typically have the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, we discussed that you will have the option to request an ERS assessment during your planning year if you wish, or you may wait until your reassessment year. In the meantime, I encourage you to use resources such as the NCRLAP website, Smart Start of Brunswick County, and Region 4 CCR&R to prepare for your reassessment. Your consultant will be in touch regarding timelines as your planning year approaches. Information from DCDEE WORKS was reviewed with you and noted on the Staff and Training Worksheet today. As discussed, to remain eligible for six points, you must ensure all lead teachers have at least the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential (NCECC) or Equivalency, at least 50% have at least an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) and two years of experience. Reminders You must schedule and obtain an approved fire inspection by March 22, 2024. Remember to send a copy to your consultant within one week as required. Child Care Rules were revised October 1, 2023, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Sanitation rules were also readopted July 1, 2023. I strongly urge you to review the training information at https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/op-training.htm, and contact Children’s Environmental Health Services with any questions. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@dhhs.nc.gov. 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: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/29/2023 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 11/29/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Five Star license issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in Education, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 155 children 0-12 years of age and meets enhanced ratios and space. Restrictions were in compliance today. The facility was also monitored for implementing an approved curriculum with children four years of age as required by the star rating; this program uses Creative Curriculum, Guided Edition. Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc., the corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office on November 27, 2023. The last annual compliance visit was conducted December 15, 2022. A Superior sanitation rating was earned June 29, 2023, and a fire inspection was conducted March 22, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 93%. Assistant Director, D. Gerard, and Owner, B. Smith, were present and available for consultation today. Seven indoor and four outdoor spaces are approved for use by children; only six indoor spaces are currently in use. Infants in Space #6 were observed in individual feeding routines and play activities. Safe sleep practices including documentation were monitored and in compliance today. Children one year of age in Space #5 and children two years of age in Space #4 were observed eating a breakfast of cereal, fruit and milk. Children two and three years of age in Space #3 were observed looking at books on the carpet as they waited to transition to a circle time activity. Children two through four years of age in Space #2 were observed in free choice activities including working with puzzles, building with blocks and pretending to cook and serve food. Preschool children in Space #7 were also engaged in free choice activities, writing on chalk boards with chalk, painting gingerbread men, pretending to make pizza, building a castle in the block center, and playing with small, plastic dinosaurs. Next, this group was observed on one of the fenced in playgrounds, playing with various portable gross motor materials. Lunch served consisted of breaded corn dog nuggets, baked beans, pears and milk. After lunch, children one through five years of age rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens. Lights were dimmed and soft music played. Required health and safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Space #7 is operated as an NC Pre-K classroom. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8:00 A.M. to 2:30 P.M., meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, DIAL 4 Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. The substitute lead teacher has completed developmental screenings. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed on the Teaching Strategies GOLD app. NC Pre-K staff information was verified in the NC Pre-K Plan, and all staff members meet requirements for qualifications or have been approved as substitutes by the contracting agency. The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale-Revised (ECERS-R) score received on 5/21/2019 was 6.05. A three year reassessment was not conducted due to COVID-19, however Ms. Gerard stated she understood the NC Pre-K classroom must score at least a 5.0 on the ECERS-R when the next reassessment is required. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. Incorrect staff/child ratios were posted in Spaces #2 and 3. A ratio chart was not posted at all in Space #7. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Seven protruding bolts were observed in the black, plastic border on the playground used by children two and three years of age. .0601(c) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Three electrical outlets not in use were not covered in Space #6. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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. A plastic grocery bag was observed accessible to children under three years of age in Space #6, and several plastic Ziploc bags were observed accessible to children under three years of age in Space #3. .0604(q) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. A school age child was transported by the facility's bus on seven different occasions in November 2023 without a photograph in the bus. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 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 health assessment was not on file for one of the ten children's files monitored today. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1769 The health assessment did not include a dental screening. One of the two NC Pre-K children's files monitored today did not include a dental screening. .3005 (a)(5) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were recorded April 10, 2023 and August 17, 2023; a drill has not been recorded since August 17, 2023. These drills were not practiced at least every three months as required. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A staff member who began employment July 11, 2022 did not complete health and safety training until October 28, 2023. .1102(a) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by December 13, 2023. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited For the safety of the children, electrical outlets not in use must be covered by an outlet cover or a piece of furniture children cannot move. In addition, plastic bags must be kept inaccessible to children under three years of age by storing at a minimum height of five feet, as they are strangulation and choking hazard. Today I strongly urged you to issue staff reminders and conduct observations in classrooms to ensure compliance. Lockdown or shelter-in-place drills should be practiced at least every three months as part of your facility's Emergency and Preparedness and Response (EPR) plan. These drills should be documented on the Emergency Drill Record. Frequent practice will allow children and staff members to be familiar with the steps to take to keep everyone safe in an emergency. Today I suggested you plan the dates and times of your drills in advance and use calendar reminders to ensure they are completed at least every three months. Remember to submit a completed drill record showing a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill in November 2023 with your compliance letter. The health and safety of individual children requires that information regarding each child in care be kept and available when needed. Children's records consist of various documentation such as a child's medical and immunization history, emergency medical care information and parental permission to participate in specific activities. This information is the basis for meeting each child's physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs. Today I encouraged you to audit the NC Pre-K children’s files for completion as some additional items are required for this group of children. Remember to submit copies of D. Jacobs’ health assessment and dental screening with your compliance letter. For each child being transported, identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information, and a copy of the emergency medical care information form required shall be in the vehicle. It is critical for staff and emergency personnel to have access to this information in the event of an accident or other type of emergency. Today I urged you to let parents know you cannot transport their children without a photograph in the vehicle. You stated you would obtain the missing photograph today and ensure it is placed in the vehicle prior to transporting the child again. Please send me a copy to verify compliance. As protruding bolts were observed on the black mulch barrier, I suggest that you check them on a regular basis to determine if they need to be pushed back down in the ground. Protrusions are considered safety hazards as children may trip over them or fall on them. Bolts should be hammered down flush with the border to ensure safety. Today we discussed that posted ratio charts must be accurate for the youngest child enrolled in the group at the current time. It may be helpful to have multiple ratio charts in the plastic sleeves in the classrooms so you can easily change them out when enrollment shifts. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding cleaning, organizing and adding to the materials in Spaces #5 and 6 to ensure that multiple children have opportunities to engage in the same activity. When children under three years old are in care, each learning center shall have developmentally appropriate toys and activities for each child to promote the child’s emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language development, and communication and cognitive development. In rooms for infants and toddlers, toys must be organized by type. Be sure to label the toys bins and shelves with words so adults can easily sort and put away toys; toys can be grouped in the following categories: dolls, blocks, pretend play, books, sensory and musical. Materials shall be offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. An open area that allows freedom of movement shall be available, both indoors and outdoors, for infants and for toddlers. Today I suggested you inventory materials and see if you have any extra or rotating materials available in other classrooms to “beef up” your supply in these two spaces. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding nutrition rules. As discussed, Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. In addition, having hot drinks in the classroom poses a burn hazard if the liquid spills on a child. Please remind all staff to consume food and beverages that do not meet nutrition requirements only during break times away from the children. Rated License Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due in 2022, therefore you have been placed in “Cohort 2” of the cohort model of resuming rated license reassessments. This means your planning/preparation year will be 7/1/24-6/30/25, and your next reassessment will be due between 7/1/25 and 6/30/26. As you typically have the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, we discussed that you will have the option to request an ERS assessment during your planning year if you wish, or you may wait until your reassessment year. In the meantime, I encourage you to use resources such as the NCRLAP website, Smart Start of Brunswick County, and Region 4 CCR&R to prepare for your reassessment. Your consultant will be in touch regarding timelines as your planning year approaches. Information from DCDEE WORKS was reviewed with you and noted on the Staff and Training Worksheet today. As discussed, to remain eligible for six points, you must ensure all lead teachers have at least the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential (NCECC) or Equivalency, at least 50% have at least an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) and two years of experience. Reminders You must schedule and obtain an approved fire inspection by March 22, 2024. Remember to send a copy to your consultant within one week as required. Child Care Rules were revised October 1, 2023, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Sanitation rules were also readopted July 1, 2023. I strongly urge you to review the training information at https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/op-training.htm, and contact Children’s Environmental Health Services with any questions. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@dhhs.nc.gov. 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: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: AMY WANGLER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/29/2023 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 11/29/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 08:50 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit type. This facility currently operates with a Five Star license issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in Education, 6 points in Program Standards, and 1 Quality Point. Restrictions on the permit include: a first shift capacity of 155 children 0-12 years of age and meets enhanced ratios and space. Restrictions were in compliance today. The facility was also monitored for implementing an approved curriculum with children four years of age as required by the star rating; this program uses Creative Curriculum, Guided Edition. Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc., the corporation which owns the facility, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office on November 27, 2023. The last annual compliance visit was conducted December 15, 2022. A Superior sanitation rating was earned June 29, 2023, and a fire inspection was conducted March 22, 2023; the facility was approved for day time care only. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 93%. Assistant Director, D. Gerard, and Owner, B. Smith, were present and available for consultation today. Seven indoor and four outdoor spaces are approved for use by children; only six indoor spaces are currently in use. Infants in Space #6 were observed in individual feeding routines and play activities. Safe sleep practices including documentation were monitored and in compliance today. Children one year of age in Space #5 and children two years of age in Space #4 were observed eating a breakfast of cereal, fruit and milk. Children two and three years of age in Space #3 were observed looking at books on the carpet as they waited to transition to a circle time activity. Children two through four years of age in Space #2 were observed in free choice activities including working with puzzles, building with blocks and pretending to cook and serve food. Preschool children in Space #7 were also engaged in free choice activities, writing on chalk boards with chalk, painting gingerbread men, pretending to make pizza, building a castle in the block center, and playing with small, plastic dinosaurs. Next, this group was observed on one of the fenced in playgrounds, playing with various portable gross motor materials. Lunch served consisted of breaded corn dog nuggets, baked beans, pears and milk. After lunch, children one through five years of age rested on appropriately spaced cots with individual linens. Lights were dimmed and soft music played. Required health and safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102 were monitored today. NC Pre-K Site Monitoring Space #7 is operated as an NC Pre-K classroom. The NC Pre-K requirements in Section .3000 of the Child Care Rules were monitored for compliance today. Staff-child ratios and maximum group sizes required were verified in compliance. Children in this program attend from 8:00 A.M. to 2:30 P.M., meeting the instructional day requirement of 6.5 hours. This NC Pre-K program uses Creative Curriculum, DIAL 4 Developmental screening, and Teaching Strategies Gold for their ongoing assessments. The substitute lead teacher has completed developmental screenings. Evidence of on-going assessments was observed on the Teaching Strategies GOLD app. NC Pre-K staff information was verified in the NC Pre-K Plan, and all staff members meet requirements for qualifications or have been approved as substitutes by the contracting agency. The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale-Revised (ECERS-R) score received on 5/21/2019 was 6.05. A three year reassessment was not conducted due to COVID-19, however Ms. Gerard stated she understood the NC Pre-K classroom must score at least a 5.0 on the ECERS-R when the next reassessment is required. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, 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 following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: Violation Number Comment Rule 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. Incorrect staff/child ratios were posted in Spaces #2 and 3. A ratio chart was not posted at all in Space #7. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Seven protruding bolts were observed in the black, plastic border on the playground used by children two and three years of age. .0601(c) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Three electrical outlets not in use were not covered in Space #6. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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. A plastic grocery bag was observed accessible to children under three years of age in Space #6, and several plastic Ziploc bags were observed accessible to children under three years of age in Space #3. .0604(q) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. A school age child was transported by the facility's bus on seven different occasions in November 2023 without a photograph in the bus. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 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 health assessment was not on file for one of the ten children's files monitored today. GS 110-91(1);.0302(d)(2); .0304(g) 1769 The health assessment did not include a dental screening. One of the two NC Pre-K children's files monitored today did not include a dental screening. .3005 (a)(5) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were recorded April 10, 2023 and August 17, 2023; a drill has not been recorded since August 17, 2023. These drills were not practiced at least every three months as required. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. A staff member who began employment July 11, 2022 did not complete health and safety training until October 28, 2023. .1102(a) A compliance letter including detailed information about how all violations have been corrected must be received by December 13, 2023. Include any supporting documentation with your response (if applicable). Your letter will be used as verification that violations have been corrected and compliance is maintained; your written response is considered a legal document so must be accurate and truthful. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent using the email address registered with DCDEE and include your facility name and ID number. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Technical Assistance Regarding Violations Cited For the safety of the children, electrical outlets not in use must be covered by an outlet cover or a piece of furniture children cannot move. In addition, plastic bags must be kept inaccessible to children under three years of age by storing at a minimum height of five feet, as they are strangulation and choking hazard. Today I strongly urged you to issue staff reminders and conduct observations in classrooms to ensure compliance. Lockdown or shelter-in-place drills should be practiced at least every three months as part of your facility's Emergency and Preparedness and Response (EPR) plan. These drills should be documented on the Emergency Drill Record. Frequent practice will allow children and staff members to be familiar with the steps to take to keep everyone safe in an emergency. Today I suggested you plan the dates and times of your drills in advance and use calendar reminders to ensure they are completed at least every three months. Remember to submit a completed drill record showing a shelter-in-place or lockdown drill in November 2023 with your compliance letter. The health and safety of individual children requires that information regarding each child in care be kept and available when needed. Children's records consist of various documentation such as a child's medical and immunization history, emergency medical care information and parental permission to participate in specific activities. This information is the basis for meeting each child's physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs. Today I encouraged you to audit the NC Pre-K children’s files for completion as some additional items are required for this group of children. Remember to submit copies of D. Jacobs’ health assessment and dental screening with your compliance letter. For each child being transported, identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information, and a copy of the emergency medical care information form required shall be in the vehicle. It is critical for staff and emergency personnel to have access to this information in the event of an accident or other type of emergency. Today I urged you to let parents know you cannot transport their children without a photograph in the vehicle. You stated you would obtain the missing photograph today and ensure it is placed in the vehicle prior to transporting the child again. Please send me a copy to verify compliance. As protruding bolts were observed on the black mulch barrier, I suggest that you check them on a regular basis to determine if they need to be pushed back down in the ground. Protrusions are considered safety hazards as children may trip over them or fall on them. Bolts should be hammered down flush with the border to ensure safety. Today we discussed that posted ratio charts must be accurate for the youngest child enrolled in the group at the current time. It may be helpful to have multiple ratio charts in the plastic sleeves in the classrooms so you can easily change them out when enrollment shifts. Technical Assistance Technical assistance was also provided today regarding cleaning, organizing and adding to the materials in Spaces #5 and 6 to ensure that multiple children have opportunities to engage in the same activity. When children under three years old are in care, each learning center shall have developmentally appropriate toys and activities for each child to promote the child’s emotional and social development, health and physical development, approaches to play and learning, language development, and communication and cognitive development. In rooms for infants and toddlers, toys must be organized by type. Be sure to label the toys bins and shelves with words so adults can easily sort and put away toys; toys can be grouped in the following categories: dolls, blocks, pretend play, books, sensory and musical. Materials shall be offered in sufficient quantity to allow all children to use them at some time during the day and to allow for a range of choices. An open area that allows freedom of movement shall be available, both indoors and outdoors, for infants and for toddlers. Today I suggested you inventory materials and see if you have any extra or rotating materials available in other classrooms to “beef up” your supply in these two spaces. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding nutrition rules. As discussed, Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0901states that staff shall role model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming only food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in this Rule in the presence of children in care. Fast food or coffee drinks that staff might consume do not follow these requirements and should not be consumed in the classroom or in the presence of children. In addition, having hot drinks in the classroom poses a burn hazard if the liquid spills on a child. Please remind all staff to consume food and beverages that do not meet nutrition requirements only during break times away from the children. Rated License Information Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due in 2022, therefore you have been placed in “Cohort 2” of the cohort model of resuming rated license reassessments. This means your planning/preparation year will be 7/1/24-6/30/25, and your next reassessment will be due between 7/1/25 and 6/30/26. As you typically have the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) conducted, we discussed that you will have the option to request an ERS assessment during your planning year if you wish, or you may wait until your reassessment year. In the meantime, I encourage you to use resources such as the NCRLAP website, Smart Start of Brunswick County, and Region 4 CCR&R to prepare for your reassessment. Your consultant will be in touch regarding timelines as your planning year approaches. Information from DCDEE WORKS was reviewed with you and noted on the Staff and Training Worksheet today. As discussed, to remain eligible for six points, you must ensure all lead teachers have at least the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential (NCECC) or Equivalency, at least 50% have at least an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) and two years of experience. Reminders You must schedule and obtain an approved fire inspection by March 22, 2024. Remember to send a copy to your consultant within one week as required. Child Care Rules were revised October 1, 2023, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Sanitation rules were also readopted July 1, 2023. I strongly urge you to review the training information at https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/op-training.htm, and contact Children’s Environmental Health Services with any questions. For more information regarding the “cohort model” of resuming rated license reassessments, and opportunities for training and technical assistance as you prepare for a reassessment, you may visit https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. If you have questions or need assistance please feel free to contact me at 910-338-7038 or amy.wangler@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .2318 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/18/2023 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 7/18/2023 Age: From 0 To 9 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 10:30 AM 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. You, Diane Gerard, Assistant Director, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point for the child care administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care experience in a licensed program that can be verified. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 94%. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc. 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. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. Infants were engaged in tummy time, napping, and diapering routines. Sleep checks were completed, recorded, and maintained as required. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Files for new staff were reviewed. Rated license requirements were reviewed to ensure compliance was maintained with current program and education components as well as the quality point. Fire and sanitation inspections remain current. Lunch for today consisted of pears, carrots, ham, cheese, whole grain bread, and milk. Four violations were observed today. The violations are as follows: Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Breast milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. Two bottles in the infant room were not labeled and/or dated. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Playground inspections have not been completed in March through June 2023. .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. A staff member hired June 19, 2023, has not had six clock hours of training in required topic areas. .1101(a)(b) 1791 The child care provider did not provide the required beverage(s). A bottle in the infant room contained cereal. .0901(e)(1-7) 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 August 1, 2023, 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: April Lester, Child Care Consultant 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@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: According to Child Care Rule .0901(f) states that the child care provider shall serve only the following beverages: (1) breast milk, as specified in Paragraph (k) of this Rule; (2) formula; (3) water; (4) unflavored whole milk, for children ages 12-23 months; (5) unflavored skim or lowfat milk for children 24 months through five years; (6) unflavored skim milk, unflavored low-fat milk, or flavored skim milk for children six years and older; or Effective July 1, 2023 49 (7) 100 percent fruit juice, limited to 6 ounces per day, for all ages. A bottle in the infant room for a child 3 months of age had cereal mixed with formula. Children are not allowed to have anything added to their beverages, including cereal, rice, or oatmeal. These items have caused choking as well as obesity in young children. Today we discussed serving cereal, oatmeal, and rice to children in a bowl with a spoon. Bottles must be dated and labeled daily to ensure children are served fresh and appropriate bottles daily. Today we discussed ensuring all bottles are dated and labeled prior to storing them in the refrigerator. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding file organization. I suggested that you use the revised file checklists under “Provider Documents and Forms” on the DCDEE website to assist with organization and ensure all requirements are met. I also encouraged you to review the chart in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2318 for more information about records retention. Please ensure staff files are organized according to the file checklist found on the DCDEE website. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed and emailed to you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, 910-824-0235, lynette.robbins@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: LITTLE SANDPIPER'S LEARNING CENTER Facility ID: 10000048 Consultant: APRIL LESTER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/18/2023 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 7/18/2023 Age: From 0 To 9 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 10:30 AM 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. You, Diane Gerard, Assistant Director, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a five-star license, issued July 30, 2019, earning 6 points in the education component, 6 points in the program standards component meeting enhanced space and enhanced ratios and 1 quality point for the child care administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care experience in a licensed program that can be verified. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. Prior to the visit the compliance history score was 94%. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and Little Sandpiper’s Child Learning Center, Inc. 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. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. Infants were engaged in tummy time, napping, and diapering routines. Sleep checks were completed, recorded, and maintained as required. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Files for new staff were reviewed. Rated license requirements were reviewed to ensure compliance was maintained with current program and education components as well as the quality point. Fire and sanitation inspections remain current. Lunch for today consisted of pears, carrots, ham, cheese, whole grain bread, and milk. Four violations were observed today. The violations are as follows: Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Breast milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. Two bottles in the infant room were not labeled and/or dated. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Playground inspections have not been completed in March through June 2023. .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. A staff member hired June 19, 2023, has not had six clock hours of training in required topic areas. .1101(a)(b) 1791 The child care provider did not provide the required beverage(s). A bottle in the infant room contained cereal. .0901(e)(1-7) 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 August 1, 2023, 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: April Lester, Child Care Consultant 12948 Wilmington, NC 28405 April.Lester@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: According to Child Care Rule .0901(f) states that the child care provider shall serve only the following beverages: (1) breast milk, as specified in Paragraph (k) of this Rule; (2) formula; (3) water; (4) unflavored whole milk, for children ages 12-23 months; (5) unflavored skim or lowfat milk for children 24 months through five years; (6) unflavored skim milk, unflavored low-fat milk, or flavored skim milk for children six years and older; or Effective July 1, 2023 49 (7) 100 percent fruit juice, limited to 6 ounces per day, for all ages. A bottle in the infant room for a child 3 months of age had cereal mixed with formula. Children are not allowed to have anything added to their beverages, including cereal, rice, or oatmeal. These items have caused choking as well as obesity in young children. Today we discussed serving cereal, oatmeal, and rice to children in a bowl with a spoon. Bottles must be dated and labeled daily to ensure children are served fresh and appropriate bottles daily. Today we discussed ensuring all bottles are dated and labeled prior to storing them in the refrigerator. Technical assistance was also provided today regarding file organization. I suggested that you use the revised file checklists under “Provider Documents and Forms” on the DCDEE website to assist with organization and ensure all requirements are met. I also encouraged you to review the chart in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2318 for more information about records retention. Please ensure staff files are organized according to the file checklist found on the DCDEE website. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed and emailed to you. Contact me at April Lester, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-0954, april.lester@dhhs.nc.gov or Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, 910-824-0235, lynette.robbins@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