THE Learning Experience @ Cary

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING EXPERIENCE @ CARY Facility ID: 92002502 Consultant: KIMBERLY GIROUARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/17/2025 Number Present: 157 Completed Date: 10/17/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 405 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 05:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose for today’s visit was to monitor The Learning Experience @ Cary for compliance with applicable childcare requirements for an annual compliance visit. Child Care Consultant, Kimberly Girouard, attempted to complete an Annual Compliance visit on October 6, 2025. When Ms. Girouard arrived at the school, on October 6, 2025, she was informed by the administrative team that they were in the middle of a Lice outbreak at their school and were contacting parents to pick up their children. Due to the situation at hand, Ms. Girouard offered guidance on protocols to follow and suggested the administrative team contact their Health Consultant for additional guidance. The purpose for today’s visit was for Ms. Girouard to complete an Annual Compliance Follow-Up visit, completing a full assessment of childcare requirements. Your current corporation status is listed as “Current-Active” on the North Carolina Secretary of State Website. Your program currently operates with a Five-star license. Your most recent license was issued on April 2, 2018. You are licensed to care for 176 children on first shift, and you are approved to care for children 0-12 years of age although at this point in time you do not have any school age children enrolled. Your facility meets enhanced ratios and space with no additional restrictions to your license. Today’s visit was conducted with you, Ms. Forde, Center Director. You accompanied me throughout my walkthrough of the facility today. I, Kimberly Girouard, Child Care Licensing Consultant, monitored eleven (11) classrooms, the “Make Believe” indoor play area, two (2) playgrounds, staff/child ratios, supervision, capacity, group size and staff interaction and discipline. I also monitored the facility for health and safety requirements as well. During today’s visit, I observed two (2) infant classrooms. I did observe cabinets in the diapering area not locked and there were staff purses in the unlocked cabinets that were accessible to the children. I also observed three (3) infant bottles that were not properly labeled with the infant name and date. I observed the safe sleep documentation being conducted as required and reminded the infant staff to document on the safe sleep chart the time they place the infant in the crib opposed when the infant falls asleep. I observed infants going down for naps and eating and engaged in floor activities. I observed the children throughout the rest of the building engaged in center activities, eating lunch, napping and playing outside. I observed the staff moving about the classrooms and playgrounds providing appropriate supervision while providing a nurturing environment. I also observed all required postings (menus, schedules, ratio sheets, Safe Sleep Policy, and permission to administer medications) to be in compliance today. I monitored two playgrounds which each offered age-appropriate equipment and offered a pleasant and age-appropriate outdoor play environment. I did observe areas on the steps on each play structure that will require paint touch up soon. I pointed these areas out to the facility director. Program requirements were monitored today. The Learning Experience @ Cary does not provide transportation. The facility sanitation inspection was current, and this facility has a Superior Rating at this time. Fire and Lockdown drills were also found to be current and in compliance. Children and staff records were monitored today, and the information was documented on the children’s records form and staff and training worksheets. Three children files were found to have expired emergency medical authorizations on file. The following violations were cited during today’s visit and must be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human 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. Three bottles were observed today with no date on them. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Cabinets behind the changing table in Infant room 2 were unlocked and accessible to the children. The staff had their purses stored in the cabinets and plastic bags were also stored in the cabinets. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1316 Emergency medical care information did not contain information needed for safe medical treatment. Three children's files were found to have expired parental permission for emergency medical care. .0802 (c)(4) RATED LICENSE *DCDEE has transitioned to a new Rated License process referred to as Pathways to the Stars. Wake County childcare consultants offered informational sessions on September 30, 2025, for all Wake County center and FCCH providers. Both the owner of The Learning Experience @ Cary and the facility director attended this meeting. The owner of this facility was present when I arrived today and stated she would like to schedule a call to discuss their plan to complete their upcoming rated license. The administrative team has decided to use Pathway Two and would like to further discuss their plan. We agreed to look at our calendars so we can schedule a meeting. I was also informed today that Wake County Smart Start has already started visiting The Learning Experience @ Cary to assist with this process as well. ADDITIONAL PROGRAM INFORMATION *ABCMS- As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) childcare operators are to notify the Division of any new childcare providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Facility director, Ms. Forde, showed me all of her staff in the ABCMS system today. *EPR – The EPR plan was observed posted and current today. *LEAD WATER TESTING -Centers are required to have their water tested every 3 years by the Clean Water for Carolina Kids™ program. Based on the documentation Ms. Forde shared, their last Lead Water test was conducted on March 20, 2024, and everything was in normal range. COMPLIANCE HISTORY According to NC General Statute all Child Care programs must maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past 18 months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Any violations documented during visits to your program may have an impact on the total compliance history score and cause your score to drop below the mandated level. Please submit a corrective action letter for the above violations. While the Division allows you time to explain how you have corrected violations when they are documented, it is expected that you correct all violations immediately. Your corrective action letter must include the following: Name of your program, ID number of your program, Date of Letter, Violation(s) number(s), and How and When each violation was corrected. Your letter is due no later than October 31, 2025, and should be emailed to Kimberly Girouard at Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov. If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact me at 919-602-2582 or Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time throughout today’s visit. 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: THE LEARNING EXPERIENCE @ CARY Facility ID: 92002502 Consultant: KIMBERLY GIROUARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/17/2025 Number Present: 157 Completed Date: 10/17/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 405 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 05:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose for today’s visit was to monitor The Learning Experience @ Cary for compliance with applicable childcare requirements for an annual compliance visit. Child Care Consultant, Kimberly Girouard, attempted to complete an Annual Compliance visit on October 6, 2025. When Ms. Girouard arrived at the school, on October 6, 2025, she was informed by the administrative team that they were in the middle of a Lice outbreak at their school and were contacting parents to pick up their children. Due to the situation at hand, Ms. Girouard offered guidance on protocols to follow and suggested the administrative team contact their Health Consultant for additional guidance. The purpose for today’s visit was for Ms. Girouard to complete an Annual Compliance Follow-Up visit, completing a full assessment of childcare requirements. Your current corporation status is listed as “Current-Active” on the North Carolina Secretary of State Website. Your program currently operates with a Five-star license. Your most recent license was issued on April 2, 2018. You are licensed to care for 176 children on first shift, and you are approved to care for children 0-12 years of age although at this point in time you do not have any school age children enrolled. Your facility meets enhanced ratios and space with no additional restrictions to your license. Today’s visit was conducted with you, Ms. Forde, Center Director. You accompanied me throughout my walkthrough of the facility today. I, Kimberly Girouard, Child Care Licensing Consultant, monitored eleven (11) classrooms, the “Make Believe” indoor play area, two (2) playgrounds, staff/child ratios, supervision, capacity, group size and staff interaction and discipline. I also monitored the facility for health and safety requirements as well. During today’s visit, I observed two (2) infant classrooms. I did observe cabinets in the diapering area not locked and there were staff purses in the unlocked cabinets that were accessible to the children. I also observed three (3) infant bottles that were not properly labeled with the infant name and date. I observed the safe sleep documentation being conducted as required and reminded the infant staff to document on the safe sleep chart the time they place the infant in the crib opposed when the infant falls asleep. I observed infants going down for naps and eating and engaged in floor activities. I observed the children throughout the rest of the building engaged in center activities, eating lunch, napping and playing outside. I observed the staff moving about the classrooms and playgrounds providing appropriate supervision while providing a nurturing environment. I also observed all required postings (menus, schedules, ratio sheets, Safe Sleep Policy, and permission to administer medications) to be in compliance today. I monitored two playgrounds which each offered age-appropriate equipment and offered a pleasant and age-appropriate outdoor play environment. I did observe areas on the steps on each play structure that will require paint touch up soon. I pointed these areas out to the facility director. Program requirements were monitored today. The Learning Experience @ Cary does not provide transportation. The facility sanitation inspection was current, and this facility has a Superior Rating at this time. Fire and Lockdown drills were also found to be current and in compliance. Children and staff records were monitored today, and the information was documented on the children’s records form and staff and training worksheets. Three children files were found to have expired emergency medical authorizations on file. The following violations were cited during today’s visit and must be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human 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. Three bottles were observed today with no date on them. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Cabinets behind the changing table in Infant room 2 were unlocked and accessible to the children. The staff had their purses stored in the cabinets and plastic bags were also stored in the cabinets. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1316 Emergency medical care information did not contain information needed for safe medical treatment. Three children's files were found to have expired parental permission for emergency medical care. .0802 (c)(4) RATED LICENSE *DCDEE has transitioned to a new Rated License process referred to as Pathways to the Stars. Wake County childcare consultants offered informational sessions on September 30, 2025, for all Wake County center and FCCH providers. Both the owner of The Learning Experience @ Cary and the facility director attended this meeting. The owner of this facility was present when I arrived today and stated she would like to schedule a call to discuss their plan to complete their upcoming rated license. The administrative team has decided to use Pathway Two and would like to further discuss their plan. We agreed to look at our calendars so we can schedule a meeting. I was also informed today that Wake County Smart Start has already started visiting The Learning Experience @ Cary to assist with this process as well. ADDITIONAL PROGRAM INFORMATION *ABCMS- As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) childcare operators are to notify the Division of any new childcare providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Facility director, Ms. Forde, showed me all of her staff in the ABCMS system today. *EPR – The EPR plan was observed posted and current today. *LEAD WATER TESTING -Centers are required to have their water tested every 3 years by the Clean Water for Carolina Kids™ program. Based on the documentation Ms. Forde shared, their last Lead Water test was conducted on March 20, 2024, and everything was in normal range. COMPLIANCE HISTORY According to NC General Statute all Child Care programs must maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past 18 months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Any violations documented during visits to your program may have an impact on the total compliance history score and cause your score to drop below the mandated level. Please submit a corrective action letter for the above violations. While the Division allows you time to explain how you have corrected violations when they are documented, it is expected that you correct all violations immediately. Your corrective action letter must include the following: Name of your program, ID number of your program, Date of Letter, Violation(s) number(s), and How and When each violation was corrected. Your letter is due no later than October 31, 2025, and should be emailed to Kimberly Girouard at Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov. If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact me at 919-602-2582 or Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time throughout today’s visit. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING EXPERIENCE @ CARY Facility ID: 92002502 Consultant: KIMBERLY GIROUARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/17/2025 Number Present: 138 Completed Date: 4/17/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during a Routine Unannounced visit. The Learning Experience @ Cary operates with a Five (5) Star Child Care License issued on April 2, 2018. Director, Ms. Patti Forde, was present at the facility today and accompanied me throughout my visit. INSPECTIONS I reviewed required inspections including fire drills, emergency drills, fire and sanitation inspections and playground inspections. All reports were found to be in compliance. CORPORATION STATUS Your current corporation status is listed as “Current-Active” on the North Carolina Secretary of State Website. MONITORING During today’s visit, a partial assessment was conducted, monitoring all space occupied by the children. Staff qualifications were discussed and reviewed. Nine (9) new staff files were reviewed today. All spaces were monitored for supervision, staff/child ratios, staff/child interactions, materials, equipment and required postings. OBSERVATIONS I completed a walk-through of the facility. At the time of the visit, there were a total of ??? children present between the ages of 0yrs-5yrs. The children were observed engaged in indoor and outdoor activities, having lunch, and going down for naps. The staff were observed engaged in the children’s activities while providing appropriate supervision. Four (4) violations were cited during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human 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. The Child Care Consultant observed one sippy cup and container of food to not be labeled with the correct information, identifying who it was for and the day it was delivered. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. During today's visit, the lock on the door leading into the staff lounge was found to not be working properly. The door would not lock when closed. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. Child Care Consultant observed safe sleep checks to show infants were placed on their side when initially being placed in the crib for nap time and there was no safe sleep waiver signed by the child's parent requesting the child be placed on their side when going down for nap. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. During todays visit, the parents signature on an emergency medication authorization form was found to be expired. The facility is required to have the parent sign off on the emergency medication form every 6 months. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) COMPLIANCE HISTORY According to NC General Statute all Child Care programs must maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past 18 months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Any violations documented during visits to your program may have an impact on the total compliance history score and cause your score to drop below the mandated level. Prior to today’s visit, the compliance history score for the center was 97% TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE *SAFE SLEEP POLICY - During today’s visit we discussed the importance of completing the safe sleeps checks correctly at all times. The caregiver placing the infant down for naps must initially record on the safe sleep chart their initials, the time the infant is being placed in the crib and the position the infant is placed in the crib. The caregiver must also continue to complete sleep checks throughout the infant’s nap. The caregiver conducting the sleep checks must do so at the intervals identified in the facility’s Safe Sleep Policy. We discussed the importance of always documenting that infants are placed on their back when being placed in their crib for nap time, unless there is a Written Waiver on file, signed by the child’s parent/legal guardian. This includes if the infant rolls onto their tummy or side when being placed down for nap. By documenting tummy or side when the infant is being placed in the crib for the first time, the care giver is stating they purposefully placed the infant on their tummy or side when placing them in the crib for nap time. Sleep checks should tell a clear story of how the infant was initially placed in the crib when going down for naps and the time the infant went down for naps, each position the infant was observed in during each sleep check conducted by the infant room staff, and when the infant woke up. I suggested that if an infant does not nap on any given day, that the infant room staff document on their safe sleep chart, NO NAP, on that specific day or if an infant is absent on any given day that the staff record absent on the day. *MEDICAL ACTION PLANS – This facility has emergency medication for a few of their enrolled children. As a reminder, the maintenance of these plans and the ability to implement such plans for the treatment of reactions are essential. It is important to remember that a medical action plan must be attached to the child’s application for enrollment, completed by the child's parent or a health care professional and must be updated on an annual basis. Permission to administer emergency medications must be updated every 6 months by the parent. I suggested to the director that she review the names of all enrolled children who have emergency medications at every staff meeting to provide a constant reminder to everyone in the building. I also suggested to the director that she contact her Health Consultant, Ms. Daisy Clemmons, at 919-830-7412, and ask her to come by to inspect the documentation on the action plans to confirm everything is correct and offer suggestions where needed. *HEALTH & SAFETY – During today’s children’s bottles and a container of food for an enrolled child were observed to not have dates on them and/or names of the children. This information is required to confirm the food items are given to the correct child/children and food safety purposes. Also, during today’s visit, the lock on the door leading into the staff lounge was found to be not working correctly. The director was not able to get the door to remain locked during my visit. The director did say she had another lock she could use to replace the one currently on the door. She, Ms. Ford, stated she would make the switch by the end of the day. SUMMER PLAYGROUND REMINDERS HOT SURFACES ON PLAYGROUND- Playgrounds are often a hub of joy and activity for children, offering a space where they can run, jump, and play freely. However, as temperatures rise, so do the risks associated with hot surfaces on playgrounds. The scorching heat of the sun can turn slides, swings, and other equipment into potential burn hazards, causing burns and discomfort for children of all ages. To lessen these risks and ensure a safe environment for play, it's essential to inspect hot surface areas and implement cooling measures. It is important to check all equipment that children could touch with their hands, including handles, rails, platforms, slides, asphalt or concrete (if sitting during chalk play), rubber surfacing in the fall zones, steering wheels, monkey bars, geo dome climbers, swing seats, chains on swings, tire swings, tunnels that children can sit on or climb in, and anything metal or dark colored. One of the primary concerns that comes to mind during hot weather is the temperature of playground equipment. Metal slides and swings, in particular, can absorb and retain heat, becoming dangerously hot to the touch. Black rubber swing seats get hot. Darker colors heat faster than lighter colors. Children, unaware of the potential danger, may unintentionally come into contact with these heated surfaces, resulting in burns or severe discomfort. Additionally, rubberized surfaces such as those found in some playgrounds can also become excessively hot, posing a risk to bare skin. Regular inspections of playground equipment are crucial, especially during hot weather conditions. Maintenance personnel should routinely check for signs of excessive heat buildup on surfaces, focusing on areas that are exposed to direct sunlight. Using specialized tools like infrared thermometers can help accurately measure surface temperatures and identify potential hot spots. If during inspection hot spots are discovered several strategies can be employed to cool down these areas: Shading: Installing shade structures over playground equipment can significantly reduce direct exposure to sunlight, thereby lowering surface temperatures. This can be achieved through the use of canopies, umbrellas, or natural shade from trees. Cooling Mats: Placing cooling mats or pads on high-temperature surfaces can provide a protective barrier for children. These mats are designed to dissipate heat quickly, keeping the surface cooler and safer to touch. Misting stations may be another preventative measure and also a way to cool off. Water Play: Introducing water play elements such as misters or splash pads near playgrounds can help cool down surrounding areas. Not only does water play provide relief from the heat, but it also adds an element of fun for children. Timed Play: Scheduling playtime during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, can minimize exposure to hot playground surfaces. Encouraging children to wear appropriate footwear and clothing can also help prevent burns. Educational Awareness: Educating children about the dangers of hot surfaces and encouraging them to test equipment for heat before use can empower them to make safer choices while playing. By implementing these measures and conducting regular inspections, playgrounds can remain safe and enjoyable spaces for children, even during the hottest months of the year. Prioritizing the cooling down of hot surface areas demonstrates a commitment to child safety and ensures that playgrounds continue to serve as places of fun and exploration for years to come. RATED LICENSE *North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project. Link here to access the Environment Rating Scales and notes for clarification, training opportunities and various resource materials. www.ncrlap.org * Wake County Smart Start - https://www.smartstart.org Wake County Smart Start is another wonderful resource for preparing for the rated license process. RESOURCES *The NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center is a valuable resource where you can find skills-based training and technical assistance from your Child Care Health Consultant on specific medications or health conditions, as well as the new poster on Stand-Up Changing Procedures. Sign up for their quarterly newsletter and find updated resources at www.healthychildcare.unc.edu or 800-367-2229, choose option 1, then 2. *The Healthy Social Behaviors (HSB) Project supports teachers to promote healthy social-emotional development and reduce the expulsion rate among young children in licensed childcare centers across North Carolina. Specialists are available with early childhood education backgrounds who are passionate about empowering teachers to develop learning environments and teaching practices that promote prosocial skills in young children. To speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific tot he challenging behaviors in your classroom you can call 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. *Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website for childcare updates at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ . Please submit a corrective action letter for the above violations. While the Division allows you time to explain how you have corrected violations when they are documented, it is expected that you correct all violations immediately. Your corrective action letter must include the following: Name of your program, ID number of your program, Date of Letter, Violation(s) number(s), and How and When each violation was corrected. Your letter is due no later than May 1, 2025, and should be emailed to Kimberly Girouard at Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov. CONTACT INFORMATION Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact me by phone at 919-602-2582 or email at Kimberly.Girouard@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 .0606 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING EXPERIENCE @ CARY Facility ID: 92002502 Consultant: KIMBERLY GIROUARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/17/2025 Number Present: 138 Completed Date: 4/17/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance during a Routine Unannounced visit. The Learning Experience @ Cary operates with a Five (5) Star Child Care License issued on April 2, 2018. Director, Ms. Patti Forde, was present at the facility today and accompanied me throughout my visit. INSPECTIONS I reviewed required inspections including fire drills, emergency drills, fire and sanitation inspections and playground inspections. All reports were found to be in compliance. CORPORATION STATUS Your current corporation status is listed as “Current-Active” on the North Carolina Secretary of State Website. MONITORING During today’s visit, a partial assessment was conducted, monitoring all space occupied by the children. Staff qualifications were discussed and reviewed. Nine (9) new staff files were reviewed today. All spaces were monitored for supervision, staff/child ratios, staff/child interactions, materials, equipment and required postings. OBSERVATIONS I completed a walk-through of the facility. At the time of the visit, there were a total of ??? children present between the ages of 0yrs-5yrs. The children were observed engaged in indoor and outdoor activities, having lunch, and going down for naps. The staff were observed engaged in the children’s activities while providing appropriate supervision. Four (4) violations were cited during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human 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. The Child Care Consultant observed one sippy cup and container of food to not be labeled with the correct information, identifying who it was for and the day it was delivered. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. During today's visit, the lock on the door leading into the staff lounge was found to not be working properly. The door would not lock when closed. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. Child Care Consultant observed safe sleep checks to show infants were placed on their side when initially being placed in the crib for nap time and there was no safe sleep waiver signed by the child's parent requesting the child be placed on their side when going down for nap. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. During todays visit, the parents signature on an emergency medication authorization form was found to be expired. The facility is required to have the parent sign off on the emergency medication form every 6 months. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) COMPLIANCE HISTORY According to NC General Statute all Child Care programs must maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past 18 months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Any violations documented during visits to your program may have an impact on the total compliance history score and cause your score to drop below the mandated level. Prior to today’s visit, the compliance history score for the center was 97% TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE *SAFE SLEEP POLICY - During today’s visit we discussed the importance of completing the safe sleeps checks correctly at all times. The caregiver placing the infant down for naps must initially record on the safe sleep chart their initials, the time the infant is being placed in the crib and the position the infant is placed in the crib. The caregiver must also continue to complete sleep checks throughout the infant’s nap. The caregiver conducting the sleep checks must do so at the intervals identified in the facility’s Safe Sleep Policy. We discussed the importance of always documenting that infants are placed on their back when being placed in their crib for nap time, unless there is a Written Waiver on file, signed by the child’s parent/legal guardian. This includes if the infant rolls onto their tummy or side when being placed down for nap. By documenting tummy or side when the infant is being placed in the crib for the first time, the care giver is stating they purposefully placed the infant on their tummy or side when placing them in the crib for nap time. Sleep checks should tell a clear story of how the infant was initially placed in the crib when going down for naps and the time the infant went down for naps, each position the infant was observed in during each sleep check conducted by the infant room staff, and when the infant woke up. I suggested that if an infant does not nap on any given day, that the infant room staff document on their safe sleep chart, NO NAP, on that specific day or if an infant is absent on any given day that the staff record absent on the day. *MEDICAL ACTION PLANS – This facility has emergency medication for a few of their enrolled children. As a reminder, the maintenance of these plans and the ability to implement such plans for the treatment of reactions are essential. It is important to remember that a medical action plan must be attached to the child’s application for enrollment, completed by the child's parent or a health care professional and must be updated on an annual basis. Permission to administer emergency medications must be updated every 6 months by the parent. I suggested to the director that she review the names of all enrolled children who have emergency medications at every staff meeting to provide a constant reminder to everyone in the building. I also suggested to the director that she contact her Health Consultant, Ms. Daisy Clemmons, at 919-830-7412, and ask her to come by to inspect the documentation on the action plans to confirm everything is correct and offer suggestions where needed. *HEALTH & SAFETY – During today’s children’s bottles and a container of food for an enrolled child were observed to not have dates on them and/or names of the children. This information is required to confirm the food items are given to the correct child/children and food safety purposes. Also, during today’s visit, the lock on the door leading into the staff lounge was found to be not working correctly. The director was not able to get the door to remain locked during my visit. The director did say she had another lock she could use to replace the one currently on the door. She, Ms. Ford, stated she would make the switch by the end of the day. SUMMER PLAYGROUND REMINDERS HOT SURFACES ON PLAYGROUND- Playgrounds are often a hub of joy and activity for children, offering a space where they can run, jump, and play freely. However, as temperatures rise, so do the risks associated with hot surfaces on playgrounds. The scorching heat of the sun can turn slides, swings, and other equipment into potential burn hazards, causing burns and discomfort for children of all ages. To lessen these risks and ensure a safe environment for play, it's essential to inspect hot surface areas and implement cooling measures. It is important to check all equipment that children could touch with their hands, including handles, rails, platforms, slides, asphalt or concrete (if sitting during chalk play), rubber surfacing in the fall zones, steering wheels, monkey bars, geo dome climbers, swing seats, chains on swings, tire swings, tunnels that children can sit on or climb in, and anything metal or dark colored. One of the primary concerns that comes to mind during hot weather is the temperature of playground equipment. Metal slides and swings, in particular, can absorb and retain heat, becoming dangerously hot to the touch. Black rubber swing seats get hot. Darker colors heat faster than lighter colors. Children, unaware of the potential danger, may unintentionally come into contact with these heated surfaces, resulting in burns or severe discomfort. Additionally, rubberized surfaces such as those found in some playgrounds can also become excessively hot, posing a risk to bare skin. Regular inspections of playground equipment are crucial, especially during hot weather conditions. Maintenance personnel should routinely check for signs of excessive heat buildup on surfaces, focusing on areas that are exposed to direct sunlight. Using specialized tools like infrared thermometers can help accurately measure surface temperatures and identify potential hot spots. If during inspection hot spots are discovered several strategies can be employed to cool down these areas: Shading: Installing shade structures over playground equipment can significantly reduce direct exposure to sunlight, thereby lowering surface temperatures. This can be achieved through the use of canopies, umbrellas, or natural shade from trees. Cooling Mats: Placing cooling mats or pads on high-temperature surfaces can provide a protective barrier for children. These mats are designed to dissipate heat quickly, keeping the surface cooler and safer to touch. Misting stations may be another preventative measure and also a way to cool off. Water Play: Introducing water play elements such as misters or splash pads near playgrounds can help cool down surrounding areas. Not only does water play provide relief from the heat, but it also adds an element of fun for children. Timed Play: Scheduling playtime during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, can minimize exposure to hot playground surfaces. Encouraging children to wear appropriate footwear and clothing can also help prevent burns. Educational Awareness: Educating children about the dangers of hot surfaces and encouraging them to test equipment for heat before use can empower them to make safer choices while playing. By implementing these measures and conducting regular inspections, playgrounds can remain safe and enjoyable spaces for children, even during the hottest months of the year. Prioritizing the cooling down of hot surface areas demonstrates a commitment to child safety and ensures that playgrounds continue to serve as places of fun and exploration for years to come. RATED LICENSE *North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project. Link here to access the Environment Rating Scales and notes for clarification, training opportunities and various resource materials. www.ncrlap.org * Wake County Smart Start - https://www.smartstart.org Wake County Smart Start is another wonderful resource for preparing for the rated license process. RESOURCES *The NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center is a valuable resource where you can find skills-based training and technical assistance from your Child Care Health Consultant on specific medications or health conditions, as well as the new poster on Stand-Up Changing Procedures. Sign up for their quarterly newsletter and find updated resources at www.healthychildcare.unc.edu or 800-367-2229, choose option 1, then 2. *The Healthy Social Behaviors (HSB) Project supports teachers to promote healthy social-emotional development and reduce the expulsion rate among young children in licensed childcare centers across North Carolina. Specialists are available with early childhood education backgrounds who are passionate about empowering teachers to develop learning environments and teaching practices that promote prosocial skills in young children. To speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific tot he challenging behaviors in your classroom you can call 1-888-600-1685 Option 1. *Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website for childcare updates at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ . Please submit a corrective action letter for the above violations. While the Division allows you time to explain how you have corrected violations when they are documented, it is expected that you correct all violations immediately. Your corrective action letter must include the following: Name of your program, ID number of your program, Date of Letter, Violation(s) number(s), and How and When each violation was corrected. Your letter is due no later than May 1, 2025, and should be emailed to Kimberly Girouard at Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov. CONTACT INFORMATION Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact me by phone at 919-602-2582 or email at Kimberly.Girouard@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: THE LEARNING EXPERIENCE @ CARY Facility ID: 92002502 Consultant: KIMBERLY GIROUARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/7/2024 Number Present: 119 Completed Date: 10/7/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 325 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:55 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. A full assessment of child care requirements was conducted. Your program currently operates with a Five-star license issued on April 2, 2018. The facility was monitored for approved curriculum. Today’s visit was conducted with you, Patti Forde, Center Director. You visited each child care area with me. I monitored classrooms in use for compliance with staff/child ratios, supervision, capacity, group size, staff interaction/discipline, materials, medication administration/documentation/permission to administer, indoor and outdoor areas used by children. A checklist was used to monitor compliance. Children throughout the facility were playing in activity areas/centers, participating in circle time, playing outside, participating in teacher led activities, having lunch and napping. Infants were observed engaged in floor activities and having breakfast. Children were observed being served lunch, completed routines, and prepared for rest time. I observed proper handwashing, and toileting practices as well as head counts being conducted during transitions. Staff assisted children with materials, facilitated play and group time, and routines. The facility was monitored for health and safety requirements both indoors and outdoors. Program requirements, along with equipment and furnishings were monitored. All inspections and drills were current. A sampling of children’s and existing staff’s records, and all new staff records were monitored, and information was documented on the children’s records form and the staff and training worksheet. One violation was cited today: for safe sleep checks not being documented correctly. The last annual compliance visit was conducted October 26, 2023. Prior to today’s visit, the facility’s compliance history was 95 percent. The owner/operator is listed as current/active with the NC Secretary of State. The facility does not transport children. The following violation was cited during today’s visit and must be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 895 Infants under the age of 12 months were not placed on their backs for sleeping unless the center had obtained the appropriate written waiver. Infants under the age of 12 months were not placed on their backs for sleeping unless the center had obtained the appropriate written waiver. Infant safe sleep checks were documented to indicate an infant was placed on its side when being placed in the crib for a nap. A new teacher indicated on the sleep chart she was putting a child down on its tummy and sometimes on its side. She said she did this because as she laid the infant down it rolled onto its side and sometimes onto his tummy. The infant did not have documentation from a doctor or the appropriate written waiver on file. .0606(a)(1)(A-B) 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 today must be corrected immediately. On or before October 21, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violation cited today was 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: Kimberly Girouard PO BOX 1184 Wake Forest, NC 27588 Kimberly.Girouard@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/INFORMATION: 1. Infant-Toddler Safe Sleep Policies- All infants should be placed on their backs when being placed in the crib. And the safe sleep checks should reflect this information unless a doctors request is in place. During a review of safe sleep checks, I found safe sleep checks for one infant documented to indicate an infant was placed on its side when being placed in the crib for a nap. The infant did not have documentation from a doctor or the appropriate written waiver on file. The infant teacher stated the baby sometimes rolled onto its tummy and sometimes onto its side when she placed the infant in the crib for nap time. I informed the teacher as long she is not purposely placing the infant on its tummy or side when putting the infant in the crib she would mark back for the position the infant is initially being placed in the crib, even if the infant immediately rolls onto its side or tummy. 2. Children’s Records/Files- The administrative team is currently updating children's files. I recommend using the Child File Check list, which can be found on the DCDEE website under Provider Files. Record keeping is one of the most time-consuming tasks associated with administering a child care program. It is an important part of licensure. Review children’s files often to ensure the program is maintaining accurate licensing records. Organization and completeness of records is important to ensure easy access to information in emergency situations. We discussed making sure that you develop a record keeping system for children’s records that promotes organization and efficiency. 3. I recommend adding locks to the tall white cabinets in the classrooms to add additional locked storage in each classroom. 4. During today’s visit we discussed the importance of conducting supply checks in each classroom to confirm staff are using the supplies given to them and to confirm the amount of supplies are maintained in each center to allow for at least three children to engage in each area. We also discussed pulling books when they become weathered. 3. Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS (Star Rated License System) rules are implemented (SB 425). 4. The NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center is a valuable resource where you can find skills-based training and technical assistance from your Child Care Health Consultant on specific medications or health conditions, as well as the new poster on Stand-Up Changing Procedures. Sign up for their quarterly newsletter and find updated resources at www.healthychildcare.unc.edu or 800-367-2229, choose option 1, then 2. 5. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website for child care updates at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time and cooperation. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact me at Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov or (919) 602-2582. 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 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: THE LEARNING EXPERIENCE @ CARY Facility ID: 92002502 Consultant: KIMBERLY GIROUARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/26/2023 Number Present: 94 Completed Date: 10/26/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 340 Time In: 11:35 AM Time Out: 05:15 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 compliance during an annual compliance visit. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the director Patti Forde, and facility owner, Divya Shah. Ms. Patti Forde accompanied me on my walk-through of the facility. At the time of my visit there were a total of (#) children present. The children were observed playing outside, and in the indoor activity room “Make Believe Blvd.” and going down for nap. I observed two infant rooms today. The staff in each class were observed feeding the children, engaged in floor activities with the children, walking the infants around the playground and putting infants down for nap. LICENSE STATUS Currently this center operates with a Five Star license issued April 2, 2018. INSPECTIONS I reviewed all required inspections including fire drills, emergency drills, sanitation, fire, and outdoor inspections. All inspections were found to be in compliance except the fire inspection. The owner spoke to the fire inspector today and was told he would be conducting the facility fire inspection during the week of October 30, 2023. MONITORING During today’s visit, a full assessment was conducted, monitoring all indoor and outdoor space occupied by the children. All staff files were reviewed today. A selection of children’s files was reviewed. All spaces were monitored for supervision, staff/child ratios, materials, equipment and required postings. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. The checklist will be provided at the conclusion of the visit. The following violation was observed during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection was conducted on October 13, 2023. The owner of the facility called the fire inspector today to schedule the required inspection. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) COMPLIANCE HISTORY According to NC General Statute all Child Care programs must maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past 18 months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Any violations documented during visits to your program may have an impact on the total compliance history score and cause your score to drop below the mandated level. **Prior to today’s visit, the compliance history score for the center was 98%. Any violations cited during today's visit may affect this percentage. CONSULTATION/NOTES To improve the quality of your program, we discussed the following items: • All rules were being met regarding the infant safe sleep policy. I did suggest using the Safe Sleep charts on the DCDEE website as they are easy to read and user friendly. I also suggested they mark “No Nap” when an infant does not nap on any given day. We also discussed that unless there is a waiver in place, signed by the infant’s parent and doctor, all infants are to always be placed on their back when being placed in their crib for a nap. • I reminded the director to also check the expiration date on all medication. Sometimes the medication itself will expire before the required medication forms expire. • I suggested to the director that she save the Staff and Training form off the DCDEE website and use that to add and update staff information opposed to completing the form by hand. RATED LICENSE INFORMATION/NOTES Rated License/COHORT 1 Information Your facility is in cohort one. I recommend you consider completing the following tasks and activities that will help prepare you for your reassessment year, which will be sometime between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025. If possible, we will align the reassessment with your annual compliance visit timeframe. • Have all staff update WORKS accounts to reflect all currently completed coursework (DCDEE-WORKS) • Determine whether you wish to have Environment Rating Scale (ERS) Assessments conducted. • Request technical assistance with your child care consultant and local partners • Participate in local CCR&R and NCPC quality related training/workshops (CCRR Information) • Reach out to your local Community College to discuss educational opportunities. • Review NCRLAP website ERS resources (www.NCRLAP.org). To help review ERS requirements and think carefully about the current characteristics and practices in your program and classrooms, check out the Thinking More worksheets. A worksheet is available for each subscale of each rating scale. • Consider requesting an ERS assessment (free of charge) during the preparation year. Remember the scores can be used in a variety of ways o ERS assessments can be requested during the preparation year and scores can be used as guidance to enhance program quality. o If desired, assessment scores can be used during the preparation year if the operator wants to move forward with a rated license reassessment. o Assessment scores can be saved to use during the reassessment year. o Facilities can request another ERS assessment (free of charge) in your reassessment year for any ERS assessment scoring less than a 5.0. o We discussed reaching out to Wake County Smart Start to assist with preparation for your upcoming Rated License Assessment. o Remember to have staff’s education information on file with DCDEE/Workforce and their information must be current in WORKS database. o The EEC certificate is optional for staff. Although, it may increase staff’s education points and may help keep or increase the number of STARS the facility has. I recommend you contact the NC Institute for Child Development Professionals website at http://ncicdp.org/certification-licensure/certification or by contacting the EEC office at 919-942-7442 or info@nceec.org o There is a new way for staff to obtain the equivalency of the NC Early Childhood Certificate. This could be very helpful for staff that still need to obtain their credential. The NC Early Childhood Equivalency Certificate Exam is now available on Moodle (directions: Moodle – CCDF – NC Early Childhood Equivalency Exam). This exam is a pathway option comparable to a NC Early Childhood Credential or EDU 119. The certificate will always generate an individualized letter code. Once the certificate is generated in Moodle, the early childhood educator will upload the certificate into their WORKS account to be verified. If an early childhood educator has any questions or concerns about the exam, please have them contact dcdee.equivalency.exam@dhhs.nc.gov. I asked the director to keep me updated on how she plans to move forward with the rated license assessment i.e. when you think you would like to submit your request for the Environmental Rating Scales as I will be the one to submit that request on behalf of your facility. If you plan to work with Wake County Smart to prepare for your ERS visit, I would reach out to them as soon as possible to get on their calendar, we will also need to stay in communications regarding your staff’s education and if it is current in WORKS. PLEASE REMEMBER THAT YOU WILL ONLY BE ABLE TO USE THE EDUCATION THAT IS DOCUMENTED IN WORKS FOR EACH OF YOUR STAFF MEMBERS – IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT YOUR STAFF KEEPS THEIR PERSONAL WORKS ACCOUNTS UP TO DATE. Please submit a corrective action letter for the above violation. While the Division allows you time to explain how you have corrected violations when they are documented, it is expected that you correct all violations immediately. Your corrective action letter must include the following: Name of your program, ID number of your program, Date of Letter, Violation(s) number(s), and How and When each violation was corrected. Your letter is due no later than November 9, 2023, and should be emailed to Kimberly Girouard at Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov. CONTACT INFORMATION Should you have any questions, please contact me by phone at 919-602-2582 or email at Kimberly.Girouard@dhhs.nc.gov. You can also contact my supervisor Michele Remington at by email at Michele.Remington@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