Beginning Years Daycare # 3

10A NCAC 09 .0901 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/28/2026 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 1/28/2026 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 06:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. A Complaint visit was completed prior to the AC visit. The four-star licensed child care center continued to meet voluntary enhanced ratios and space requirements. Upon arrival at the center, Mr. Corwin Phillips, center administrator, escorted me inside and contacted Mrs. Zakiyyah Jasper. Mrs. Jasper arrived on site shortly after the visit began. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated April 2025 were used to document compliance. Spaces #1-5, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and one van were monitored for compliance. The posted menu was monitored for compliance. The lunch served to the children was chicken, green beans, diced pears, ½ slice of wheat bread and milk. The items served to the children had not been updated and posted to reflect the change to the menu before the food was served to the children. It was explained that the posted menu was to help parents know what is planned to be served and what is served. A posted allergy list and menu were monitored in the kitchen. The change to the menu was updated during the visit. Infant/toddler feeding schedules were monitored maintained on a clip board in space #1. Staff were reminded to update feeding schedules as the child’s diet evolves. It is recommended to utilize the infant feeding schedule on the DCDEE website. The form tracks the staff and parents’ dates of discussion and the changes to the child’s diet. Infant feeding schedules are required to be posted until the child reaches fifteen (15) months of age. There were two ceiling tiles in space #3, monitored stained and bowing downward. The roof appears to be leaking. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #3 and #4. The books in poor repair were removed from the environment during the visit. A metal vent cover maintained in space #4 was monitored duct taped. The school age children present stated the vent cover doesn’t stay in place and falls all the time. The vent cover was cited in the past and the vent cover was monitored as corrected last year. However, based on the children’s statements, another way must be determined to ensure the metal vent cover remains connected and secure. The outdoor learning environment was monitored with a wooden play structure missing two wooden panels. The EPR plan and RTGF were not current. Time was spent reviewing the RTGF checklist with Mr. Phillips and Mrs. Jasper to ensure all required components were monitored. After center administrators changed, the EPR plan was not updated to reflect the change in administrator. The Children were monitored engaged in group time, eating lunch and naptime. The center has implemented Teaching Strategies in the building and four-year-old children. Quarterly assessments were monitored to show they are being completed. There were elements in the four-year-old classroom to show the curriculum was implemented. The posted lesson plan, materials and charting of children’s responses. Staff and Training worksheets were provided, and there were not any new staff employees hired since July 2025 (last RU) who were still employed at the facility. Mr. Phillips file was monitored in December of 2025. There were five employees. One existing staff file was monitored for compliance (T. Stinson) The ABCMS roster report was run prior to the visit and verified by reviewing the staff and training worksheets with Mr. Phillips. The current staff were monitored and linked. Mr. Phillips was asked to add Mrs. Jasper and the owner, Ms. Linda Scott, to the staff and training worksheets. The operator’s CBC must be tracked and maintained current. The operator must be linked to one of her licensed facilities in the ABCMS. Ms. Scott nor Mrs. Jasper are not required to be linked at each licensed site in the company. A Preservice Form for Center Administrator was completed and verified via DCDEE WORKS. Mr. Phillips will need to apply for the Program Coordinators position via WORKS profile page. There were thirty-three (33) children enrolled. Five (5) children’s files were monitored for compliance. One child did not have a medical action plan attached to their application. The center’s EPR plan and Ready to Go File were monitored for compliance and determined not current. Changes were not made to the plan when the center administrators changed. Children’s medical action plans were not attached to the child’s application, the center allergy list and area map were not maintained in the RTGF as required. Documentation for quarterly safety drills, monthly fire drills, playground inspections and center incident log were monitored for compliance. The last shelter in place or lock down drill was documented as October 8, 2025. It was recommended to plan the four drills for the year and place the dates on the corporate calendar. The daily attendance with children’s arrival and departure times were monitored and maintained at the front door/office, documented and current for the week. Lesson plans were monitored, posted, current and developmentally appropriate. We discussed the need to maintain materials in the required centers. The school age board games and art materials could use some new additions. Space #3 serves four-year-old children. The classroom was not operating today, and no four-year-old children were present. We discussed the implemented curriculum of Teaching Strategies. It was recommended to enroll in CCRI’s Quality Every Day grant funded program. Having outside support on a regular basis can help support staff and ensure the curriculum is fully implemented. More pictures of ages, stages and abilities were encouraged with something live added to each space. More children’s 3D artwork was encouraged. The center’s transportation vehicle was monitored with current center/van roster, inspection, plates and insurance via Progressive Insurance that does not expire until January 9, 2027. Photographs of children transported routinely were monitored attached to the children’s emergency contact information/first page of application. The last sanitation inspection completed was dated November 18, 2025, with sixteen (16) demerits cited and an Approved classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed December 20, 2024. The center is waiting for the fire inspector to complete the DCDEE fire inspection report. The City of Charlotte Fire Inspection report was emailed to a former employee. The current management staff were unaware that the inspector was waiting for the hood inspection and fire suppression reports to be emailed to him, so he could complete the DCDEE Fire Inspection Report. A violation was cited for failure to obtain the DCDEE fire inspection report by the annual expiration date (12/20/2025). The requested documentation was reviewed and Mrs. Jasper stated emailing the reports to the fire inspector at the beginning of the week. It was highly recommended to begin the annual inspection process 6 to 8 weeks prior to expiration. 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 center's annual fire inspection was due no later than December 20, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu items listed on the posted menu were not the items served to children for lunch. The change in menu items was not recorded on the posted menus. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding schedules were monitored on a clip board and not posted in space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #3 and #4. A metal vent cover was monitored tapped but not secured in space #4. Two ceiling panels in space #3 were monitored stained and bowing down. .0601(c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden structure on the preschool/school age playground was monitored missing two wooden panels on the structure. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last SIP drill was documented October 8, 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The RTGF was missing an area map, children/staff allergy list and children's medical action plans attached to the child's application. .0607(d)(10) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR plan was monitored not current with former staff listed. .0607(e) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One child's application stated the child had asthma. There was not a medical action plan attached to the child's application. .0801(b) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. The two choices of pathways for a star rating were reviewed with Mr. Phillips and Mrs. Jasper. There are several resources available on the NCRLAP website at www.NCRLAP.org. It was recommended to take advantage of the training/resources available. We discussed the center self-study (NCRLAP) and the CQI quality improvement plan for the center and individuals. Staff education requirements for the four- and five-star rating were reviewed with the administration. Pathways #1 and #2 were discussed and reviewed. Mrs. Jasper selected Pathway #1 and the Pathway to the Stars document was completed to document the discussion. The three-month self-study QR code was provided in email prior to the visit. It was highly recommended to have a mock/community assessment via NCRLAP. This would provide feedback for staff, and environmental improvements. 2. The center administrators have and know how to link employees and print the roster report from the ABCMS. The administrative staff are still working to link the staff applicants within the ABCMS. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care 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. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 3. It was recommended to add something live to each classroom like a plant or fish. It was also recommended to add pictures of ages, stages, abilities and careers. Also pictures of the enrolled families. 4. The center transports children under the age of two. Child Care Ratios must be maintained. Child Care Rule is below. Please review child care rule with transportation staff and document the review. 10A NCAC 09 .1004 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS (a) When children aged two years and older are being transported, the staff/child ratios required for compliance with child care center rules as set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter shall apply. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. (b) When three or more children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio. (c) When less than three children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. History Note: Authority G.S. 110-85; 110-91(13); 143B-168.3; Eff. January 1, 1986; Amended Eff. July 1, 1998; July 1, 1988; Readopted Eff. October 1, 2017. Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Wednesday, February 11, 2026. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail documentation to Mara Brinton, 3687 Stallings Road, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact my supervisor, Michele Sullivan at 704-594-0147 or by email at michele.sullivan@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 .0902 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/28/2026 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 1/28/2026 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 06:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. A Complaint visit was completed prior to the AC visit. The four-star licensed child care center continued to meet voluntary enhanced ratios and space requirements. Upon arrival at the center, Mr. Corwin Phillips, center administrator, escorted me inside and contacted Mrs. Zakiyyah Jasper. Mrs. Jasper arrived on site shortly after the visit began. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated April 2025 were used to document compliance. Spaces #1-5, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and one van were monitored for compliance. The posted menu was monitored for compliance. The lunch served to the children was chicken, green beans, diced pears, ½ slice of wheat bread and milk. The items served to the children had not been updated and posted to reflect the change to the menu before the food was served to the children. It was explained that the posted menu was to help parents know what is planned to be served and what is served. A posted allergy list and menu were monitored in the kitchen. The change to the menu was updated during the visit. Infant/toddler feeding schedules were monitored maintained on a clip board in space #1. Staff were reminded to update feeding schedules as the child’s diet evolves. It is recommended to utilize the infant feeding schedule on the DCDEE website. The form tracks the staff and parents’ dates of discussion and the changes to the child’s diet. Infant feeding schedules are required to be posted until the child reaches fifteen (15) months of age. There were two ceiling tiles in space #3, monitored stained and bowing downward. The roof appears to be leaking. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #3 and #4. The books in poor repair were removed from the environment during the visit. A metal vent cover maintained in space #4 was monitored duct taped. The school age children present stated the vent cover doesn’t stay in place and falls all the time. The vent cover was cited in the past and the vent cover was monitored as corrected last year. However, based on the children’s statements, another way must be determined to ensure the metal vent cover remains connected and secure. The outdoor learning environment was monitored with a wooden play structure missing two wooden panels. The EPR plan and RTGF were not current. Time was spent reviewing the RTGF checklist with Mr. Phillips and Mrs. Jasper to ensure all required components were monitored. After center administrators changed, the EPR plan was not updated to reflect the change in administrator. The Children were monitored engaged in group time, eating lunch and naptime. The center has implemented Teaching Strategies in the building and four-year-old children. Quarterly assessments were monitored to show they are being completed. There were elements in the four-year-old classroom to show the curriculum was implemented. The posted lesson plan, materials and charting of children’s responses. Staff and Training worksheets were provided, and there were not any new staff employees hired since July 2025 (last RU) who were still employed at the facility. Mr. Phillips file was monitored in December of 2025. There were five employees. One existing staff file was monitored for compliance (T. Stinson) The ABCMS roster report was run prior to the visit and verified by reviewing the staff and training worksheets with Mr. Phillips. The current staff were monitored and linked. Mr. Phillips was asked to add Mrs. Jasper and the owner, Ms. Linda Scott, to the staff and training worksheets. The operator’s CBC must be tracked and maintained current. The operator must be linked to one of her licensed facilities in the ABCMS. Ms. Scott nor Mrs. Jasper are not required to be linked at each licensed site in the company. A Preservice Form for Center Administrator was completed and verified via DCDEE WORKS. Mr. Phillips will need to apply for the Program Coordinators position via WORKS profile page. There were thirty-three (33) children enrolled. Five (5) children’s files were monitored for compliance. One child did not have a medical action plan attached to their application. The center’s EPR plan and Ready to Go File were monitored for compliance and determined not current. Changes were not made to the plan when the center administrators changed. Children’s medical action plans were not attached to the child’s application, the center allergy list and area map were not maintained in the RTGF as required. Documentation for quarterly safety drills, monthly fire drills, playground inspections and center incident log were monitored for compliance. The last shelter in place or lock down drill was documented as October 8, 2025. It was recommended to plan the four drills for the year and place the dates on the corporate calendar. The daily attendance with children’s arrival and departure times were monitored and maintained at the front door/office, documented and current for the week. Lesson plans were monitored, posted, current and developmentally appropriate. We discussed the need to maintain materials in the required centers. The school age board games and art materials could use some new additions. Space #3 serves four-year-old children. The classroom was not operating today, and no four-year-old children were present. We discussed the implemented curriculum of Teaching Strategies. It was recommended to enroll in CCRI’s Quality Every Day grant funded program. Having outside support on a regular basis can help support staff and ensure the curriculum is fully implemented. More pictures of ages, stages and abilities were encouraged with something live added to each space. More children’s 3D artwork was encouraged. The center’s transportation vehicle was monitored with current center/van roster, inspection, plates and insurance via Progressive Insurance that does not expire until January 9, 2027. Photographs of children transported routinely were monitored attached to the children’s emergency contact information/first page of application. The last sanitation inspection completed was dated November 18, 2025, with sixteen (16) demerits cited and an Approved classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed December 20, 2024. The center is waiting for the fire inspector to complete the DCDEE fire inspection report. The City of Charlotte Fire Inspection report was emailed to a former employee. The current management staff were unaware that the inspector was waiting for the hood inspection and fire suppression reports to be emailed to him, so he could complete the DCDEE Fire Inspection Report. A violation was cited for failure to obtain the DCDEE fire inspection report by the annual expiration date (12/20/2025). The requested documentation was reviewed and Mrs. Jasper stated emailing the reports to the fire inspector at the beginning of the week. It was highly recommended to begin the annual inspection process 6 to 8 weeks prior to expiration. 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 center's annual fire inspection was due no later than December 20, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu items listed on the posted menu were not the items served to children for lunch. The change in menu items was not recorded on the posted menus. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding schedules were monitored on a clip board and not posted in space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #3 and #4. A metal vent cover was monitored tapped but not secured in space #4. Two ceiling panels in space #3 were monitored stained and bowing down. .0601(c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden structure on the preschool/school age playground was monitored missing two wooden panels on the structure. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last SIP drill was documented October 8, 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The RTGF was missing an area map, children/staff allergy list and children's medical action plans attached to the child's application. .0607(d)(10) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR plan was monitored not current with former staff listed. .0607(e) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One child's application stated the child had asthma. There was not a medical action plan attached to the child's application. .0801(b) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. The two choices of pathways for a star rating were reviewed with Mr. Phillips and Mrs. Jasper. There are several resources available on the NCRLAP website at www.NCRLAP.org. It was recommended to take advantage of the training/resources available. We discussed the center self-study (NCRLAP) and the CQI quality improvement plan for the center and individuals. Staff education requirements for the four- and five-star rating were reviewed with the administration. Pathways #1 and #2 were discussed and reviewed. Mrs. Jasper selected Pathway #1 and the Pathway to the Stars document was completed to document the discussion. The three-month self-study QR code was provided in email prior to the visit. It was highly recommended to have a mock/community assessment via NCRLAP. This would provide feedback for staff, and environmental improvements. 2. The center administrators have and know how to link employees and print the roster report from the ABCMS. The administrative staff are still working to link the staff applicants within the ABCMS. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care 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. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 3. It was recommended to add something live to each classroom like a plant or fish. It was also recommended to add pictures of ages, stages, abilities and careers. Also pictures of the enrolled families. 4. The center transports children under the age of two. Child Care Ratios must be maintained. Child Care Rule is below. Please review child care rule with transportation staff and document the review. 10A NCAC 09 .1004 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS (a) When children aged two years and older are being transported, the staff/child ratios required for compliance with child care center rules as set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter shall apply. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. (b) When three or more children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio. (c) When less than three children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. History Note: Authority G.S. 110-85; 110-91(13); 143B-168.3; Eff. January 1, 1986; Amended Eff. July 1, 1998; July 1, 1988; Readopted Eff. October 1, 2017. Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Wednesday, February 11, 2026. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail documentation to Mara Brinton, 3687 Stallings Road, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact my supervisor, Michele Sullivan at 704-594-0147 or by email at michele.sullivan@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 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/28/2026 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 1/28/2026 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 06:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. A Complaint visit was completed prior to the AC visit. The four-star licensed child care center continued to meet voluntary enhanced ratios and space requirements. Upon arrival at the center, Mr. Corwin Phillips, center administrator, escorted me inside and contacted Mrs. Zakiyyah Jasper. Mrs. Jasper arrived on site shortly after the visit began. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated April 2025 were used to document compliance. Spaces #1-5, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and one van were monitored for compliance. The posted menu was monitored for compliance. The lunch served to the children was chicken, green beans, diced pears, ½ slice of wheat bread and milk. The items served to the children had not been updated and posted to reflect the change to the menu before the food was served to the children. It was explained that the posted menu was to help parents know what is planned to be served and what is served. A posted allergy list and menu were monitored in the kitchen. The change to the menu was updated during the visit. Infant/toddler feeding schedules were monitored maintained on a clip board in space #1. Staff were reminded to update feeding schedules as the child’s diet evolves. It is recommended to utilize the infant feeding schedule on the DCDEE website. The form tracks the staff and parents’ dates of discussion and the changes to the child’s diet. Infant feeding schedules are required to be posted until the child reaches fifteen (15) months of age. There were two ceiling tiles in space #3, monitored stained and bowing downward. The roof appears to be leaking. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #3 and #4. The books in poor repair were removed from the environment during the visit. A metal vent cover maintained in space #4 was monitored duct taped. The school age children present stated the vent cover doesn’t stay in place and falls all the time. The vent cover was cited in the past and the vent cover was monitored as corrected last year. However, based on the children’s statements, another way must be determined to ensure the metal vent cover remains connected and secure. The outdoor learning environment was monitored with a wooden play structure missing two wooden panels. The EPR plan and RTGF were not current. Time was spent reviewing the RTGF checklist with Mr. Phillips and Mrs. Jasper to ensure all required components were monitored. After center administrators changed, the EPR plan was not updated to reflect the change in administrator. The Children were monitored engaged in group time, eating lunch and naptime. The center has implemented Teaching Strategies in the building and four-year-old children. Quarterly assessments were monitored to show they are being completed. There were elements in the four-year-old classroom to show the curriculum was implemented. The posted lesson plan, materials and charting of children’s responses. Staff and Training worksheets were provided, and there were not any new staff employees hired since July 2025 (last RU) who were still employed at the facility. Mr. Phillips file was monitored in December of 2025. There were five employees. One existing staff file was monitored for compliance (T. Stinson) The ABCMS roster report was run prior to the visit and verified by reviewing the staff and training worksheets with Mr. Phillips. The current staff were monitored and linked. Mr. Phillips was asked to add Mrs. Jasper and the owner, Ms. Linda Scott, to the staff and training worksheets. The operator’s CBC must be tracked and maintained current. The operator must be linked to one of her licensed facilities in the ABCMS. Ms. Scott nor Mrs. Jasper are not required to be linked at each licensed site in the company. A Preservice Form for Center Administrator was completed and verified via DCDEE WORKS. Mr. Phillips will need to apply for the Program Coordinators position via WORKS profile page. There were thirty-three (33) children enrolled. Five (5) children’s files were monitored for compliance. One child did not have a medical action plan attached to their application. The center’s EPR plan and Ready to Go File were monitored for compliance and determined not current. Changes were not made to the plan when the center administrators changed. Children’s medical action plans were not attached to the child’s application, the center allergy list and area map were not maintained in the RTGF as required. Documentation for quarterly safety drills, monthly fire drills, playground inspections and center incident log were monitored for compliance. The last shelter in place or lock down drill was documented as October 8, 2025. It was recommended to plan the four drills for the year and place the dates on the corporate calendar. The daily attendance with children’s arrival and departure times were monitored and maintained at the front door/office, documented and current for the week. Lesson plans were monitored, posted, current and developmentally appropriate. We discussed the need to maintain materials in the required centers. The school age board games and art materials could use some new additions. Space #3 serves four-year-old children. The classroom was not operating today, and no four-year-old children were present. We discussed the implemented curriculum of Teaching Strategies. It was recommended to enroll in CCRI’s Quality Every Day grant funded program. Having outside support on a regular basis can help support staff and ensure the curriculum is fully implemented. More pictures of ages, stages and abilities were encouraged with something live added to each space. More children’s 3D artwork was encouraged. The center’s transportation vehicle was monitored with current center/van roster, inspection, plates and insurance via Progressive Insurance that does not expire until January 9, 2027. Photographs of children transported routinely were monitored attached to the children’s emergency contact information/first page of application. The last sanitation inspection completed was dated November 18, 2025, with sixteen (16) demerits cited and an Approved classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed December 20, 2024. The center is waiting for the fire inspector to complete the DCDEE fire inspection report. The City of Charlotte Fire Inspection report was emailed to a former employee. The current management staff were unaware that the inspector was waiting for the hood inspection and fire suppression reports to be emailed to him, so he could complete the DCDEE Fire Inspection Report. A violation was cited for failure to obtain the DCDEE fire inspection report by the annual expiration date (12/20/2025). The requested documentation was reviewed and Mrs. Jasper stated emailing the reports to the fire inspector at the beginning of the week. It was highly recommended to begin the annual inspection process 6 to 8 weeks prior to expiration. 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 center's annual fire inspection was due no later than December 20, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu items listed on the posted menu were not the items served to children for lunch. The change in menu items was not recorded on the posted menus. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding schedules were monitored on a clip board and not posted in space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #3 and #4. A metal vent cover was monitored tapped but not secured in space #4. Two ceiling panels in space #3 were monitored stained and bowing down. .0601(c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden structure on the preschool/school age playground was monitored missing two wooden panels on the structure. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last SIP drill was documented October 8, 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The RTGF was missing an area map, children/staff allergy list and children's medical action plans attached to the child's application. .0607(d)(10) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR plan was monitored not current with former staff listed. .0607(e) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One child's application stated the child had asthma. There was not a medical action plan attached to the child's application. .0801(b) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. The two choices of pathways for a star rating were reviewed with Mr. Phillips and Mrs. Jasper. There are several resources available on the NCRLAP website at www.NCRLAP.org. It was recommended to take advantage of the training/resources available. We discussed the center self-study (NCRLAP) and the CQI quality improvement plan for the center and individuals. Staff education requirements for the four- and five-star rating were reviewed with the administration. Pathways #1 and #2 were discussed and reviewed. Mrs. Jasper selected Pathway #1 and the Pathway to the Stars document was completed to document the discussion. The three-month self-study QR code was provided in email prior to the visit. It was highly recommended to have a mock/community assessment via NCRLAP. This would provide feedback for staff, and environmental improvements. 2. The center administrators have and know how to link employees and print the roster report from the ABCMS. The administrative staff are still working to link the staff applicants within the ABCMS. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care 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. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 3. It was recommended to add something live to each classroom like a plant or fish. It was also recommended to add pictures of ages, stages, abilities and careers. Also pictures of the enrolled families. 4. The center transports children under the age of two. Child Care Ratios must be maintained. Child Care Rule is below. Please review child care rule with transportation staff and document the review. 10A NCAC 09 .1004 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS (a) When children aged two years and older are being transported, the staff/child ratios required for compliance with child care center rules as set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter shall apply. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. (b) When three or more children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio. (c) When less than three children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. History Note: Authority G.S. 110-85; 110-91(13); 143B-168.3; Eff. January 1, 1986; Amended Eff. July 1, 1998; July 1, 1988; Readopted Eff. October 1, 2017. Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Wednesday, February 11, 2026. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail documentation to Mara Brinton, 3687 Stallings Road, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact my supervisor, Michele Sullivan at 704-594-0147 or by email at michele.sullivan@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 .1004 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/28/2026 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 1/28/2026 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 06:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. A Complaint visit was completed prior to the AC visit. The four-star licensed child care center continued to meet voluntary enhanced ratios and space requirements. Upon arrival at the center, Mr. Corwin Phillips, center administrator, escorted me inside and contacted Mrs. Zakiyyah Jasper. Mrs. Jasper arrived on site shortly after the visit began. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated April 2025 were used to document compliance. Spaces #1-5, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and one van were monitored for compliance. The posted menu was monitored for compliance. The lunch served to the children was chicken, green beans, diced pears, ½ slice of wheat bread and milk. The items served to the children had not been updated and posted to reflect the change to the menu before the food was served to the children. It was explained that the posted menu was to help parents know what is planned to be served and what is served. A posted allergy list and menu were monitored in the kitchen. The change to the menu was updated during the visit. Infant/toddler feeding schedules were monitored maintained on a clip board in space #1. Staff were reminded to update feeding schedules as the child’s diet evolves. It is recommended to utilize the infant feeding schedule on the DCDEE website. The form tracks the staff and parents’ dates of discussion and the changes to the child’s diet. Infant feeding schedules are required to be posted until the child reaches fifteen (15) months of age. There were two ceiling tiles in space #3, monitored stained and bowing downward. The roof appears to be leaking. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #3 and #4. The books in poor repair were removed from the environment during the visit. A metal vent cover maintained in space #4 was monitored duct taped. The school age children present stated the vent cover doesn’t stay in place and falls all the time. The vent cover was cited in the past and the vent cover was monitored as corrected last year. However, based on the children’s statements, another way must be determined to ensure the metal vent cover remains connected and secure. The outdoor learning environment was monitored with a wooden play structure missing two wooden panels. The EPR plan and RTGF were not current. Time was spent reviewing the RTGF checklist with Mr. Phillips and Mrs. Jasper to ensure all required components were monitored. After center administrators changed, the EPR plan was not updated to reflect the change in administrator. The Children were monitored engaged in group time, eating lunch and naptime. The center has implemented Teaching Strategies in the building and four-year-old children. Quarterly assessments were monitored to show they are being completed. There were elements in the four-year-old classroom to show the curriculum was implemented. The posted lesson plan, materials and charting of children’s responses. Staff and Training worksheets were provided, and there were not any new staff employees hired since July 2025 (last RU) who were still employed at the facility. Mr. Phillips file was monitored in December of 2025. There were five employees. One existing staff file was monitored for compliance (T. Stinson) The ABCMS roster report was run prior to the visit and verified by reviewing the staff and training worksheets with Mr. Phillips. The current staff were monitored and linked. Mr. Phillips was asked to add Mrs. Jasper and the owner, Ms. Linda Scott, to the staff and training worksheets. The operator’s CBC must be tracked and maintained current. The operator must be linked to one of her licensed facilities in the ABCMS. Ms. Scott nor Mrs. Jasper are not required to be linked at each licensed site in the company. A Preservice Form for Center Administrator was completed and verified via DCDEE WORKS. Mr. Phillips will need to apply for the Program Coordinators position via WORKS profile page. There were thirty-three (33) children enrolled. Five (5) children’s files were monitored for compliance. One child did not have a medical action plan attached to their application. The center’s EPR plan and Ready to Go File were monitored for compliance and determined not current. Changes were not made to the plan when the center administrators changed. Children’s medical action plans were not attached to the child’s application, the center allergy list and area map were not maintained in the RTGF as required. Documentation for quarterly safety drills, monthly fire drills, playground inspections and center incident log were monitored for compliance. The last shelter in place or lock down drill was documented as October 8, 2025. It was recommended to plan the four drills for the year and place the dates on the corporate calendar. The daily attendance with children’s arrival and departure times were monitored and maintained at the front door/office, documented and current for the week. Lesson plans were monitored, posted, current and developmentally appropriate. We discussed the need to maintain materials in the required centers. The school age board games and art materials could use some new additions. Space #3 serves four-year-old children. The classroom was not operating today, and no four-year-old children were present. We discussed the implemented curriculum of Teaching Strategies. It was recommended to enroll in CCRI’s Quality Every Day grant funded program. Having outside support on a regular basis can help support staff and ensure the curriculum is fully implemented. More pictures of ages, stages and abilities were encouraged with something live added to each space. More children’s 3D artwork was encouraged. The center’s transportation vehicle was monitored with current center/van roster, inspection, plates and insurance via Progressive Insurance that does not expire until January 9, 2027. Photographs of children transported routinely were monitored attached to the children’s emergency contact information/first page of application. The last sanitation inspection completed was dated November 18, 2025, with sixteen (16) demerits cited and an Approved classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed December 20, 2024. The center is waiting for the fire inspector to complete the DCDEE fire inspection report. The City of Charlotte Fire Inspection report was emailed to a former employee. The current management staff were unaware that the inspector was waiting for the hood inspection and fire suppression reports to be emailed to him, so he could complete the DCDEE Fire Inspection Report. A violation was cited for failure to obtain the DCDEE fire inspection report by the annual expiration date (12/20/2025). The requested documentation was reviewed and Mrs. Jasper stated emailing the reports to the fire inspector at the beginning of the week. It was highly recommended to begin the annual inspection process 6 to 8 weeks prior to expiration. 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 center's annual fire inspection was due no later than December 20, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu items listed on the posted menu were not the items served to children for lunch. The change in menu items was not recorded on the posted menus. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding schedules were monitored on a clip board and not posted in space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #3 and #4. A metal vent cover was monitored tapped but not secured in space #4. Two ceiling panels in space #3 were monitored stained and bowing down. .0601(c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden structure on the preschool/school age playground was monitored missing two wooden panels on the structure. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last SIP drill was documented October 8, 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The RTGF was missing an area map, children/staff allergy list and children's medical action plans attached to the child's application. .0607(d)(10) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR plan was monitored not current with former staff listed. .0607(e) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One child's application stated the child had asthma. There was not a medical action plan attached to the child's application. .0801(b) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. The two choices of pathways for a star rating were reviewed with Mr. Phillips and Mrs. Jasper. There are several resources available on the NCRLAP website at www.NCRLAP.org. It was recommended to take advantage of the training/resources available. We discussed the center self-study (NCRLAP) and the CQI quality improvement plan for the center and individuals. Staff education requirements for the four- and five-star rating were reviewed with the administration. Pathways #1 and #2 were discussed and reviewed. Mrs. Jasper selected Pathway #1 and the Pathway to the Stars document was completed to document the discussion. The three-month self-study QR code was provided in email prior to the visit. It was highly recommended to have a mock/community assessment via NCRLAP. This would provide feedback for staff, and environmental improvements. 2. The center administrators have and know how to link employees and print the roster report from the ABCMS. The administrative staff are still working to link the staff applicants within the ABCMS. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care 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. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 3. It was recommended to add something live to each classroom like a plant or fish. It was also recommended to add pictures of ages, stages, abilities and careers. Also pictures of the enrolled families. 4. The center transports children under the age of two. Child Care Ratios must be maintained. Child Care Rule is below. Please review child care rule with transportation staff and document the review. 10A NCAC 09 .1004 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS (a) When children aged two years and older are being transported, the staff/child ratios required for compliance with child care center rules as set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter shall apply. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. (b) When three or more children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio. (c) When less than three children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. History Note: Authority G.S. 110-85; 110-91(13); 143B-168.3; Eff. January 1, 1986; Amended Eff. July 1, 1998; July 1, 1988; Readopted Eff. October 1, 2017. Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Wednesday, February 11, 2026. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail documentation to Mara Brinton, 3687 Stallings Road, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact my supervisor, Michele Sullivan at 704-594-0147 or by email at michele.sullivan@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

G.S. 110-85 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/28/2026 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 1/28/2026 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 06:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. A Complaint visit was completed prior to the AC visit. The four-star licensed child care center continued to meet voluntary enhanced ratios and space requirements. Upon arrival at the center, Mr. Corwin Phillips, center administrator, escorted me inside and contacted Mrs. Zakiyyah Jasper. Mrs. Jasper arrived on site shortly after the visit began. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated April 2025 were used to document compliance. Spaces #1-5, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and one van were monitored for compliance. The posted menu was monitored for compliance. The lunch served to the children was chicken, green beans, diced pears, ½ slice of wheat bread and milk. The items served to the children had not been updated and posted to reflect the change to the menu before the food was served to the children. It was explained that the posted menu was to help parents know what is planned to be served and what is served. A posted allergy list and menu were monitored in the kitchen. The change to the menu was updated during the visit. Infant/toddler feeding schedules were monitored maintained on a clip board in space #1. Staff were reminded to update feeding schedules as the child’s diet evolves. It is recommended to utilize the infant feeding schedule on the DCDEE website. The form tracks the staff and parents’ dates of discussion and the changes to the child’s diet. Infant feeding schedules are required to be posted until the child reaches fifteen (15) months of age. There were two ceiling tiles in space #3, monitored stained and bowing downward. The roof appears to be leaking. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #3 and #4. The books in poor repair were removed from the environment during the visit. A metal vent cover maintained in space #4 was monitored duct taped. The school age children present stated the vent cover doesn’t stay in place and falls all the time. The vent cover was cited in the past and the vent cover was monitored as corrected last year. However, based on the children’s statements, another way must be determined to ensure the metal vent cover remains connected and secure. The outdoor learning environment was monitored with a wooden play structure missing two wooden panels. The EPR plan and RTGF were not current. Time was spent reviewing the RTGF checklist with Mr. Phillips and Mrs. Jasper to ensure all required components were monitored. After center administrators changed, the EPR plan was not updated to reflect the change in administrator. The Children were monitored engaged in group time, eating lunch and naptime. The center has implemented Teaching Strategies in the building and four-year-old children. Quarterly assessments were monitored to show they are being completed. There were elements in the four-year-old classroom to show the curriculum was implemented. The posted lesson plan, materials and charting of children’s responses. Staff and Training worksheets were provided, and there were not any new staff employees hired since July 2025 (last RU) who were still employed at the facility. Mr. Phillips file was monitored in December of 2025. There were five employees. One existing staff file was monitored for compliance (T. Stinson) The ABCMS roster report was run prior to the visit and verified by reviewing the staff and training worksheets with Mr. Phillips. The current staff were monitored and linked. Mr. Phillips was asked to add Mrs. Jasper and the owner, Ms. Linda Scott, to the staff and training worksheets. The operator’s CBC must be tracked and maintained current. The operator must be linked to one of her licensed facilities in the ABCMS. Ms. Scott nor Mrs. Jasper are not required to be linked at each licensed site in the company. A Preservice Form for Center Administrator was completed and verified via DCDEE WORKS. Mr. Phillips will need to apply for the Program Coordinators position via WORKS profile page. There were thirty-three (33) children enrolled. Five (5) children’s files were monitored for compliance. One child did not have a medical action plan attached to their application. The center’s EPR plan and Ready to Go File were monitored for compliance and determined not current. Changes were not made to the plan when the center administrators changed. Children’s medical action plans were not attached to the child’s application, the center allergy list and area map were not maintained in the RTGF as required. Documentation for quarterly safety drills, monthly fire drills, playground inspections and center incident log were monitored for compliance. The last shelter in place or lock down drill was documented as October 8, 2025. It was recommended to plan the four drills for the year and place the dates on the corporate calendar. The daily attendance with children’s arrival and departure times were monitored and maintained at the front door/office, documented and current for the week. Lesson plans were monitored, posted, current and developmentally appropriate. We discussed the need to maintain materials in the required centers. The school age board games and art materials could use some new additions. Space #3 serves four-year-old children. The classroom was not operating today, and no four-year-old children were present. We discussed the implemented curriculum of Teaching Strategies. It was recommended to enroll in CCRI’s Quality Every Day grant funded program. Having outside support on a regular basis can help support staff and ensure the curriculum is fully implemented. More pictures of ages, stages and abilities were encouraged with something live added to each space. More children’s 3D artwork was encouraged. The center’s transportation vehicle was monitored with current center/van roster, inspection, plates and insurance via Progressive Insurance that does not expire until January 9, 2027. Photographs of children transported routinely were monitored attached to the children’s emergency contact information/first page of application. The last sanitation inspection completed was dated November 18, 2025, with sixteen (16) demerits cited and an Approved classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed December 20, 2024. The center is waiting for the fire inspector to complete the DCDEE fire inspection report. The City of Charlotte Fire Inspection report was emailed to a former employee. The current management staff were unaware that the inspector was waiting for the hood inspection and fire suppression reports to be emailed to him, so he could complete the DCDEE Fire Inspection Report. A violation was cited for failure to obtain the DCDEE fire inspection report by the annual expiration date (12/20/2025). The requested documentation was reviewed and Mrs. Jasper stated emailing the reports to the fire inspector at the beginning of the week. It was highly recommended to begin the annual inspection process 6 to 8 weeks prior to expiration. 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 center's annual fire inspection was due no later than December 20, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu items listed on the posted menu were not the items served to children for lunch. The change in menu items was not recorded on the posted menus. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding schedules were monitored on a clip board and not posted in space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #3 and #4. A metal vent cover was monitored tapped but not secured in space #4. Two ceiling panels in space #3 were monitored stained and bowing down. .0601(c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden structure on the preschool/school age playground was monitored missing two wooden panels on the structure. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last SIP drill was documented October 8, 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The RTGF was missing an area map, children/staff allergy list and children's medical action plans attached to the child's application. .0607(d)(10) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR plan was monitored not current with former staff listed. .0607(e) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One child's application stated the child had asthma. There was not a medical action plan attached to the child's application. .0801(b) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. The two choices of pathways for a star rating were reviewed with Mr. Phillips and Mrs. Jasper. There are several resources available on the NCRLAP website at www.NCRLAP.org. It was recommended to take advantage of the training/resources available. We discussed the center self-study (NCRLAP) and the CQI quality improvement plan for the center and individuals. Staff education requirements for the four- and five-star rating were reviewed with the administration. Pathways #1 and #2 were discussed and reviewed. Mrs. Jasper selected Pathway #1 and the Pathway to the Stars document was completed to document the discussion. The three-month self-study QR code was provided in email prior to the visit. It was highly recommended to have a mock/community assessment via NCRLAP. This would provide feedback for staff, and environmental improvements. 2. The center administrators have and know how to link employees and print the roster report from the ABCMS. The administrative staff are still working to link the staff applicants within the ABCMS. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care 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. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 3. It was recommended to add something live to each classroom like a plant or fish. It was also recommended to add pictures of ages, stages, abilities and careers. Also pictures of the enrolled families. 4. The center transports children under the age of two. Child Care Ratios must be maintained. Child Care Rule is below. Please review child care rule with transportation staff and document the review. 10A NCAC 09 .1004 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS (a) When children aged two years and older are being transported, the staff/child ratios required for compliance with child care center rules as set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter shall apply. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. (b) When three or more children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio. (c) When less than three children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. History Note: Authority G.S. 110-85; 110-91(13); 143B-168.3; Eff. January 1, 1986; Amended Eff. July 1, 1998; July 1, 1988; Readopted Eff. October 1, 2017. Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Wednesday, February 11, 2026. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail documentation to Mara Brinton, 3687 Stallings Road, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact my supervisor, Michele Sullivan at 704-594-0147 or by email at michele.sullivan@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

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/28/2026 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 1/28/2026 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 06:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. A Complaint visit was completed prior to the AC visit. The four-star licensed child care center continued to meet voluntary enhanced ratios and space requirements. Upon arrival at the center, Mr. Corwin Phillips, center administrator, escorted me inside and contacted Mrs. Zakiyyah Jasper. Mrs. Jasper arrived on site shortly after the visit began. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated April 2025 were used to document compliance. Spaces #1-5, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and one van were monitored for compliance. The posted menu was monitored for compliance. The lunch served to the children was chicken, green beans, diced pears, ½ slice of wheat bread and milk. The items served to the children had not been updated and posted to reflect the change to the menu before the food was served to the children. It was explained that the posted menu was to help parents know what is planned to be served and what is served. A posted allergy list and menu were monitored in the kitchen. The change to the menu was updated during the visit. Infant/toddler feeding schedules were monitored maintained on a clip board in space #1. Staff were reminded to update feeding schedules as the child’s diet evolves. It is recommended to utilize the infant feeding schedule on the DCDEE website. The form tracks the staff and parents’ dates of discussion and the changes to the child’s diet. Infant feeding schedules are required to be posted until the child reaches fifteen (15) months of age. There were two ceiling tiles in space #3, monitored stained and bowing downward. The roof appears to be leaking. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #3 and #4. The books in poor repair were removed from the environment during the visit. A metal vent cover maintained in space #4 was monitored duct taped. The school age children present stated the vent cover doesn’t stay in place and falls all the time. The vent cover was cited in the past and the vent cover was monitored as corrected last year. However, based on the children’s statements, another way must be determined to ensure the metal vent cover remains connected and secure. The outdoor learning environment was monitored with a wooden play structure missing two wooden panels. The EPR plan and RTGF were not current. Time was spent reviewing the RTGF checklist with Mr. Phillips and Mrs. Jasper to ensure all required components were monitored. After center administrators changed, the EPR plan was not updated to reflect the change in administrator. The Children were monitored engaged in group time, eating lunch and naptime. The center has implemented Teaching Strategies in the building and four-year-old children. Quarterly assessments were monitored to show they are being completed. There were elements in the four-year-old classroom to show the curriculum was implemented. The posted lesson plan, materials and charting of children’s responses. Staff and Training worksheets were provided, and there were not any new staff employees hired since July 2025 (last RU) who were still employed at the facility. Mr. Phillips file was monitored in December of 2025. There were five employees. One existing staff file was monitored for compliance (T. Stinson) The ABCMS roster report was run prior to the visit and verified by reviewing the staff and training worksheets with Mr. Phillips. The current staff were monitored and linked. Mr. Phillips was asked to add Mrs. Jasper and the owner, Ms. Linda Scott, to the staff and training worksheets. The operator’s CBC must be tracked and maintained current. The operator must be linked to one of her licensed facilities in the ABCMS. Ms. Scott nor Mrs. Jasper are not required to be linked at each licensed site in the company. A Preservice Form for Center Administrator was completed and verified via DCDEE WORKS. Mr. Phillips will need to apply for the Program Coordinators position via WORKS profile page. There were thirty-three (33) children enrolled. Five (5) children’s files were monitored for compliance. One child did not have a medical action plan attached to their application. The center’s EPR plan and Ready to Go File were monitored for compliance and determined not current. Changes were not made to the plan when the center administrators changed. Children’s medical action plans were not attached to the child’s application, the center allergy list and area map were not maintained in the RTGF as required. Documentation for quarterly safety drills, monthly fire drills, playground inspections and center incident log were monitored for compliance. The last shelter in place or lock down drill was documented as October 8, 2025. It was recommended to plan the four drills for the year and place the dates on the corporate calendar. The daily attendance with children’s arrival and departure times were monitored and maintained at the front door/office, documented and current for the week. Lesson plans were monitored, posted, current and developmentally appropriate. We discussed the need to maintain materials in the required centers. The school age board games and art materials could use some new additions. Space #3 serves four-year-old children. The classroom was not operating today, and no four-year-old children were present. We discussed the implemented curriculum of Teaching Strategies. It was recommended to enroll in CCRI’s Quality Every Day grant funded program. Having outside support on a regular basis can help support staff and ensure the curriculum is fully implemented. More pictures of ages, stages and abilities were encouraged with something live added to each space. More children’s 3D artwork was encouraged. The center’s transportation vehicle was monitored with current center/van roster, inspection, plates and insurance via Progressive Insurance that does not expire until January 9, 2027. Photographs of children transported routinely were monitored attached to the children’s emergency contact information/first page of application. The last sanitation inspection completed was dated November 18, 2025, with sixteen (16) demerits cited and an Approved classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed December 20, 2024. The center is waiting for the fire inspector to complete the DCDEE fire inspection report. The City of Charlotte Fire Inspection report was emailed to a former employee. The current management staff were unaware that the inspector was waiting for the hood inspection and fire suppression reports to be emailed to him, so he could complete the DCDEE Fire Inspection Report. A violation was cited for failure to obtain the DCDEE fire inspection report by the annual expiration date (12/20/2025). The requested documentation was reviewed and Mrs. Jasper stated emailing the reports to the fire inspector at the beginning of the week. It was highly recommended to begin the annual inspection process 6 to 8 weeks prior to expiration. 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 center's annual fire inspection was due no later than December 20, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu items listed on the posted menu were not the items served to children for lunch. The change in menu items was not recorded on the posted menus. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding schedules were monitored on a clip board and not posted in space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #3 and #4. A metal vent cover was monitored tapped but not secured in space #4. Two ceiling panels in space #3 were monitored stained and bowing down. .0601(c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden structure on the preschool/school age playground was monitored missing two wooden panels on the structure. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last SIP drill was documented October 8, 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The RTGF was missing an area map, children/staff allergy list and children's medical action plans attached to the child's application. .0607(d)(10) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR plan was monitored not current with former staff listed. .0607(e) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One child's application stated the child had asthma. There was not a medical action plan attached to the child's application. .0801(b) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. The two choices of pathways for a star rating were reviewed with Mr. Phillips and Mrs. Jasper. There are several resources available on the NCRLAP website at www.NCRLAP.org. It was recommended to take advantage of the training/resources available. We discussed the center self-study (NCRLAP) and the CQI quality improvement plan for the center and individuals. Staff education requirements for the four- and five-star rating were reviewed with the administration. Pathways #1 and #2 were discussed and reviewed. Mrs. Jasper selected Pathway #1 and the Pathway to the Stars document was completed to document the discussion. The three-month self-study QR code was provided in email prior to the visit. It was highly recommended to have a mock/community assessment via NCRLAP. This would provide feedback for staff, and environmental improvements. 2. The center administrators have and know how to link employees and print the roster report from the ABCMS. The administrative staff are still working to link the staff applicants within the ABCMS. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care 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. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 3. It was recommended to add something live to each classroom like a plant or fish. It was also recommended to add pictures of ages, stages, abilities and careers. Also pictures of the enrolled families. 4. The center transports children under the age of two. Child Care Ratios must be maintained. Child Care Rule is below. Please review child care rule with transportation staff and document the review. 10A NCAC 09 .1004 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS (a) When children aged two years and older are being transported, the staff/child ratios required for compliance with child care center rules as set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter shall apply. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. (b) When three or more children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio. (c) When less than three children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. History Note: Authority G.S. 110-85; 110-91(13); 143B-168.3; Eff. January 1, 1986; Amended Eff. July 1, 1998; July 1, 1988; Readopted Eff. October 1, 2017. Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Wednesday, February 11, 2026. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail documentation to Mara Brinton, 3687 Stallings Road, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact my supervisor, Michele Sullivan at 704-594-0147 or by email at michele.sullivan@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

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/28/2026 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 1/28/2026 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 330 Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 06:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. A Complaint visit was completed prior to the AC visit. The four-star licensed child care center continued to meet voluntary enhanced ratios and space requirements. Upon arrival at the center, Mr. Corwin Phillips, center administrator, escorted me inside and contacted Mrs. Zakiyyah Jasper. Mrs. Jasper arrived on site shortly after the visit began. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated April 2025 were used to document compliance. Spaces #1-5, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and one van were monitored for compliance. The posted menu was monitored for compliance. The lunch served to the children was chicken, green beans, diced pears, ½ slice of wheat bread and milk. The items served to the children had not been updated and posted to reflect the change to the menu before the food was served to the children. It was explained that the posted menu was to help parents know what is planned to be served and what is served. A posted allergy list and menu were monitored in the kitchen. The change to the menu was updated during the visit. Infant/toddler feeding schedules were monitored maintained on a clip board in space #1. Staff were reminded to update feeding schedules as the child’s diet evolves. It is recommended to utilize the infant feeding schedule on the DCDEE website. The form tracks the staff and parents’ dates of discussion and the changes to the child’s diet. Infant feeding schedules are required to be posted until the child reaches fifteen (15) months of age. There were two ceiling tiles in space #3, monitored stained and bowing downward. The roof appears to be leaking. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #3 and #4. The books in poor repair were removed from the environment during the visit. A metal vent cover maintained in space #4 was monitored duct taped. The school age children present stated the vent cover doesn’t stay in place and falls all the time. The vent cover was cited in the past and the vent cover was monitored as corrected last year. However, based on the children’s statements, another way must be determined to ensure the metal vent cover remains connected and secure. The outdoor learning environment was monitored with a wooden play structure missing two wooden panels. The EPR plan and RTGF were not current. Time was spent reviewing the RTGF checklist with Mr. Phillips and Mrs. Jasper to ensure all required components were monitored. After center administrators changed, the EPR plan was not updated to reflect the change in administrator. The Children were monitored engaged in group time, eating lunch and naptime. The center has implemented Teaching Strategies in the building and four-year-old children. Quarterly assessments were monitored to show they are being completed. There were elements in the four-year-old classroom to show the curriculum was implemented. The posted lesson plan, materials and charting of children’s responses. Staff and Training worksheets were provided, and there were not any new staff employees hired since July 2025 (last RU) who were still employed at the facility. Mr. Phillips file was monitored in December of 2025. There were five employees. One existing staff file was monitored for compliance (T. Stinson) The ABCMS roster report was run prior to the visit and verified by reviewing the staff and training worksheets with Mr. Phillips. The current staff were monitored and linked. Mr. Phillips was asked to add Mrs. Jasper and the owner, Ms. Linda Scott, to the staff and training worksheets. The operator’s CBC must be tracked and maintained current. The operator must be linked to one of her licensed facilities in the ABCMS. Ms. Scott nor Mrs. Jasper are not required to be linked at each licensed site in the company. A Preservice Form for Center Administrator was completed and verified via DCDEE WORKS. Mr. Phillips will need to apply for the Program Coordinators position via WORKS profile page. There were thirty-three (33) children enrolled. Five (5) children’s files were monitored for compliance. One child did not have a medical action plan attached to their application. The center’s EPR plan and Ready to Go File were monitored for compliance and determined not current. Changes were not made to the plan when the center administrators changed. Children’s medical action plans were not attached to the child’s application, the center allergy list and area map were not maintained in the RTGF as required. Documentation for quarterly safety drills, monthly fire drills, playground inspections and center incident log were monitored for compliance. The last shelter in place or lock down drill was documented as October 8, 2025. It was recommended to plan the four drills for the year and place the dates on the corporate calendar. The daily attendance with children’s arrival and departure times were monitored and maintained at the front door/office, documented and current for the week. Lesson plans were monitored, posted, current and developmentally appropriate. We discussed the need to maintain materials in the required centers. The school age board games and art materials could use some new additions. Space #3 serves four-year-old children. The classroom was not operating today, and no four-year-old children were present. We discussed the implemented curriculum of Teaching Strategies. It was recommended to enroll in CCRI’s Quality Every Day grant funded program. Having outside support on a regular basis can help support staff and ensure the curriculum is fully implemented. More pictures of ages, stages and abilities were encouraged with something live added to each space. More children’s 3D artwork was encouraged. The center’s transportation vehicle was monitored with current center/van roster, inspection, plates and insurance via Progressive Insurance that does not expire until January 9, 2027. Photographs of children transported routinely were monitored attached to the children’s emergency contact information/first page of application. The last sanitation inspection completed was dated November 18, 2025, with sixteen (16) demerits cited and an Approved classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed December 20, 2024. The center is waiting for the fire inspector to complete the DCDEE fire inspection report. The City of Charlotte Fire Inspection report was emailed to a former employee. The current management staff were unaware that the inspector was waiting for the hood inspection and fire suppression reports to be emailed to him, so he could complete the DCDEE Fire Inspection Report. A violation was cited for failure to obtain the DCDEE fire inspection report by the annual expiration date (12/20/2025). The requested documentation was reviewed and Mrs. Jasper stated emailing the reports to the fire inspector at the beginning of the week. It was highly recommended to begin the annual inspection process 6 to 8 weeks prior to expiration. 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 center's annual fire inspection was due no later than December 20, 2025. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu items listed on the posted menu were not the items served to children for lunch. The change in menu items was not recorded on the posted menus. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). Feeding schedules were monitored on a clip board and not posted in space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #3 and #4. A metal vent cover was monitored tapped but not secured in space #4. Two ceiling panels in space #3 were monitored stained and bowing down. .0601(c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden structure on the preschool/school age playground was monitored missing two wooden panels on the structure. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. The last SIP drill was documented October 8, 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The RTGF was missing an area map, children/staff allergy list and children's medical action plans attached to the child's application. .0607(d)(10) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR plan was monitored not current with former staff listed. .0607(e) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One child's application stated the child had asthma. There was not a medical action plan attached to the child's application. .0801(b) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. The two choices of pathways for a star rating were reviewed with Mr. Phillips and Mrs. Jasper. There are several resources available on the NCRLAP website at www.NCRLAP.org. It was recommended to take advantage of the training/resources available. We discussed the center self-study (NCRLAP) and the CQI quality improvement plan for the center and individuals. Staff education requirements for the four- and five-star rating were reviewed with the administration. Pathways #1 and #2 were discussed and reviewed. Mrs. Jasper selected Pathway #1 and the Pathway to the Stars document was completed to document the discussion. The three-month self-study QR code was provided in email prior to the visit. It was highly recommended to have a mock/community assessment via NCRLAP. This would provide feedback for staff, and environmental improvements. 2. The center administrators have and know how to link employees and print the roster report from the ABCMS. The administrative staff are still working to link the staff applicants within the ABCMS. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care 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. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 3. It was recommended to add something live to each classroom like a plant or fish. It was also recommended to add pictures of ages, stages, abilities and careers. Also pictures of the enrolled families. 4. The center transports children under the age of two. Child Care Ratios must be maintained. Child Care Rule is below. Please review child care rule with transportation staff and document the review. 10A NCAC 09 .1004 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS (a) When children aged two years and older are being transported, the staff/child ratios required for compliance with child care center rules as set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter shall apply. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. (b) When three or more children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio. (c) When less than three children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. History Note: Authority G.S. 110-85; 110-91(13); 143B-168.3; Eff. January 1, 1986; Amended Eff. July 1, 1998; July 1, 1988; Readopted Eff. October 1, 2017. Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Wednesday, February 11, 2026. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail documentation to Mara Brinton, 3687 Stallings Road, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@dhhs.nc.gov. You may also contact my supervisor, Michele Sullivan at 704-594-0147 or by email at michele.sullivan@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 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1225-072L Visit Date: 12/19/2025 Number Present: 20 Completed Date: 12/19/2025 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 01:00 PM Time Out: 06:00 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 investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements during a Complaint visit. Upon arrival I was informed to open the front door by a caregiver. There was not anyone in the office to buzz me inside. There was an on-site administrator, Mr. Corwin Phillips, present and covering space #3 while a teacher was on lunch break. He was asked to contact the Executive Administrator, Ms. Zakiyyah Jasper. Ms. Jasper arrived approximately twenty (20) minutes after my arrival. A walk through of spaces #1-5 were completed. Children were observed napping on cots with linen. One infant was observed in a highchair and interacting with her caregiver. Once staff returned from lunch break, Mr. Corwin accompanied me to the office to begin the investigation as Ms. Jasper arrived at the site. The following allegations were read aloud to both administrators: It was alleged that a staff member was interviewed, hired, and completed onboarding paperwork on November 14, 2025, and their actual first day of working in the building was November 17, 2025. It was alleged that none of the staff had EDU 119. It was alleged that cited violations in the visit summary dated April 2024 were not corrected. There were other allegations that were not part of DCDEE Child Care Rules or Laws and therefore not part of my jurisdiction to investigate. A staff member began completing company paperwork November 14, 2025, and their DCDEE CBC qualification expired in September 2025. The former employee began orientation and was on site one day before the employee was sent home due to an expired CBC qualification. Current medical, and TB results were monitored on file for the employee. However, the preservice requirement of a DCDEE CBC qualification was not on file prior to employment. Preservice requirements were reviewed with Ms. Jasper and Mr. Phillips. It was recommended to use the staff file checklist with each staff file/binder. Based on my observations and discussion with two administrative staff the allegation of a staff member not meeting preservice requirements of a DCDEE CBC was CONFIRMED. The former employee was on site and completing new employee items without the center ensuring the preservice requirement of a DCDEE CBC qualification was met. The staff members’ CBC qualification expired in September 2025, and the employee began working without the CBC qualification. Staff and training worksheets were not updated or provided during the visit. It was stressed and emphasized to maintain current staff and training worksheets. The staff files for the following existing staff were monitored: B. Cowans, U. Lawrence, J. Cash, C. Phillips, T. Stinson and Z. Jasper. T. Stinson’s medical was not on the DCDEE Staff Medical report form. The center’s ABCMS report was run prior to the visit and the licensing supervisor, M. Sullivan, also verified during the visit that no staff were listed as linked to the facility in the ABCMS. The following staff were verified as lead teacher qualified or with EDU 119: U. Lawrence, J. Cash, C. Phillips. B. Cowans and T. Stinson were identified as floaters/substitutes. A qualified lead teacher will be required for space #3. Mr. Phillips may not act as the lead teacher for space #3 and be the on-site administrator. The program will have six months to hire and place a qualified lead teacher. Based on my observations and discussion with two administrative staff the allegation of staff not qualified with EDU 119 was NOT CONFIRMED. The visit summary dated April 9, 2024, was reviewed. Cited violations were verified corrected during the visit. One violation was cited related to a cracked window. Repair receipts for the window were submitted, and the window was visually inspected by the consultant to ensure it was repaired/corrected. The allegation of violations not corrected related to an April 2024 visit were NOT CONFIRMED. Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One staff member's medical was not completed on the DCDEE staff medical report form. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. A former staff member was permitted on site and working with an expired DCDEE CBC qualification on November 18, 2025, and did not meet the preservice requirements. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. An ABCMS report was run prior to the visit. No existing staff members were linked or listed. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. It was recommended to develop a checklist for items for potential employees to bring to an interview. 2. It was recommended to only utilize the staff file checklist and ensure each preservice requirement is met before a new staff member is on site one day. Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Friday, January 2, 2025. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail documentation to Mara Brinton, 3687 Stallings Road, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1225-072L Visit Date: 12/19/2025 Number Present: 20 Completed Date: 12/19/2025 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 01:00 PM Time Out: 06:00 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 investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements during a Complaint visit. Upon arrival I was informed to open the front door by a caregiver. There was not anyone in the office to buzz me inside. There was an on-site administrator, Mr. Corwin Phillips, present and covering space #3 while a teacher was on lunch break. He was asked to contact the Executive Administrator, Ms. Zakiyyah Jasper. Ms. Jasper arrived approximately twenty (20) minutes after my arrival. A walk through of spaces #1-5 were completed. Children were observed napping on cots with linen. One infant was observed in a highchair and interacting with her caregiver. Once staff returned from lunch break, Mr. Corwin accompanied me to the office to begin the investigation as Ms. Jasper arrived at the site. The following allegations were read aloud to both administrators: It was alleged that a staff member was interviewed, hired, and completed onboarding paperwork on November 14, 2025, and their actual first day of working in the building was November 17, 2025. It was alleged that none of the staff had EDU 119. It was alleged that cited violations in the visit summary dated April 2024 were not corrected. There were other allegations that were not part of DCDEE Child Care Rules or Laws and therefore not part of my jurisdiction to investigate. A staff member began completing company paperwork November 14, 2025, and their DCDEE CBC qualification expired in September 2025. The former employee began orientation and was on site one day before the employee was sent home due to an expired CBC qualification. Current medical, and TB results were monitored on file for the employee. However, the preservice requirement of a DCDEE CBC qualification was not on file prior to employment. Preservice requirements were reviewed with Ms. Jasper and Mr. Phillips. It was recommended to use the staff file checklist with each staff file/binder. Based on my observations and discussion with two administrative staff the allegation of a staff member not meeting preservice requirements of a DCDEE CBC was CONFIRMED. The former employee was on site and completing new employee items without the center ensuring the preservice requirement of a DCDEE CBC qualification was met. The staff members’ CBC qualification expired in September 2025, and the employee began working without the CBC qualification. Staff and training worksheets were not updated or provided during the visit. It was stressed and emphasized to maintain current staff and training worksheets. The staff files for the following existing staff were monitored: B. Cowans, U. Lawrence, J. Cash, C. Phillips, T. Stinson and Z. Jasper. T. Stinson’s medical was not on the DCDEE Staff Medical report form. The center’s ABCMS report was run prior to the visit and the licensing supervisor, M. Sullivan, also verified during the visit that no staff were listed as linked to the facility in the ABCMS. The following staff were verified as lead teacher qualified or with EDU 119: U. Lawrence, J. Cash, C. Phillips. B. Cowans and T. Stinson were identified as floaters/substitutes. A qualified lead teacher will be required for space #3. Mr. Phillips may not act as the lead teacher for space #3 and be the on-site administrator. The program will have six months to hire and place a qualified lead teacher. Based on my observations and discussion with two administrative staff the allegation of staff not qualified with EDU 119 was NOT CONFIRMED. The visit summary dated April 9, 2024, was reviewed. Cited violations were verified corrected during the visit. One violation was cited related to a cracked window. Repair receipts for the window were submitted, and the window was visually inspected by the consultant to ensure it was repaired/corrected. The allegation of violations not corrected related to an April 2024 visit were NOT CONFIRMED. Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One staff member's medical was not completed on the DCDEE staff medical report form. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. A former staff member was permitted on site and working with an expired DCDEE CBC qualification on November 18, 2025, and did not meet the preservice requirements. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. An ABCMS report was run prior to the visit. No existing staff members were linked or listed. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. It was recommended to develop a checklist for items for potential employees to bring to an interview. 2. It was recommended to only utilize the staff file checklist and ensure each preservice requirement is met before a new staff member is on site one day. Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Friday, January 2, 2025. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail documentation to Mara Brinton, 3687 Stallings Road, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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 .0802 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/21/2025 Number Present: 43 Completed Date: 7/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:30 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 for compliance with applicable child care requirements during a Routine Unannounced Visit. The four-star rated licensed center continued to operate with meeting enhanced ratios and space. Ms. Patrina Ellison, an on-site administrator, was present and working in the facility. Ms. Zykiah Jasper, regional manager, arrived shortly after the visit began. The child care item number listing dated April 2025 was used to identify and determine non-compliance. The following sections were monitored for compliance: A1, B1, C4, C5, C6, E1, E2, F3, G1, G3, G4 and G5. A walk through of spaces # 1-5, kitchen, one van and the outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. The center does not provide daily transportation to and from a child’s home but does provide field trips during the summer months for enrolled school-age children. The center did not have photographs of each school age child when field trips were provided thus far this summer. Children were monitored engaged in outdoor play, eating lunch and preparing to nap on cots with linen. The infant room/space #1 was monitored with a room temperature of 75.4F. Concerns were raised as to why the room temperature was so warm in the infant room at 9:30 am. The room thermostat was connected to other space #3. The staff in space #3 had altered the room temperature. The room temperature was lowered, and the classroom door was left open to help the room temperature cool down. An evacuation crib was placed in front of the classroom door. It was recommended to purchase and install a locked cover over the thermostat, so staff won’t be able to alter the classroom temperatures. The infant room temperature may not exceed 75F. A return to the classroom was made to ensure the classroom temperature was lowered and read 73F. In space #1 the posted Center Medical Emergency Care Plan was not current. The plan was replaced with the most current plan during the visit. Classrooms #2, 3, and 4 were monitored in need of labeling and more materials. Staff stated developing a list of materials needed and giving it to the administrator. The center and operator must develop a better plan to ensure materials are added to classrooms regularly. In space #4 a large wall vent cover was monitored laying next to the vent. The vent filter was monitored separated and contents in the wall were exposed and accessible to school age children. There was a support person (D. Coleman) who accompanied Ms. Jasper. Her file was monitored for compliance. One new staff member was hired since the last visit on May 1, 2025. One new staff member’s file was monitored for compliance (L. Acker). The staff and training worksheets from the last AC visit completed February of 2025 were used to monitor safety training compliance. Two staff members did not complete CMT training within ninety days of employment. One staff member didn’t complete Health and Safety Training within one year of their employment. One staff member didn’t obtain twenty (20) hours of annual in-service training. Mulch requirements were noted on the monthly playground inspections since May 2025. Mulch has not been obtained or installed over the required stationary play equipment since the monthly inspection reports listed mulch as needing more mulch. There were large vines and tree limbs hanging over the children’s playground that should be trimmed/pruned back. We discussed the ABCMS portal and the required process. A DCDEE roster report was run during the visit. No staff were listed and linked. The administrator must make this a priority to finalize and maintain. One child was monitored with prescribed medication, current medical action plan but without written permission from the parent, every six months. It was recommended to connect with the community health nurses through Smart Start to help review existing forms, medications and center processes. Monthly outdoor inspections, incident log, monthly fire drills and quarterly safety drills were monitored completed, and current. The center’s printed EPR plan and Ready to Go File were monitored. The plan was monitored but the new administrator had not been added. Children’s emergency contact information was not current with current medical action plans. The center’s current allergy list was not maintained in the EPR Ready to Go File. The last sanitation inspection was completed June 4, 2025, with six (6) demerits cited and a Superior classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on December 20, 2024. It was highly recommended to begin your annual inspection process four to six weeks prior to expiration. 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. Sippy cups and water bottles sent from children's homes were monitored not labeled or dated in spaces #2 and #5. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. An indoor wall vent cover was removed and the vent filter and inside of wall contents were accessible to school age children in space #4. .0601(c) 832 There was no written emergency medical care (EMC) plan. The posted EMC plan in space #1 was monitored not current. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 886 The temperature in a room where infants aged 12 months or younger where sleeping exceeded 75 degrees. The infant room temperature was monitored at 75.4 degrees in space #1. .0606(a)(5) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. Two staff members did not obtain their required number of annual in-service training hours (20 hours per staff member) by their dates of hire. .1103(a) 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. School age children transported during summer field trips did not have photographs of the children transported. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The center's ABCMS roster report was run during the visit and no existing staff were linked. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The outdoor play areas/stationary equipment did not meet six inches in depth. .0605(k)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. One child with an epi pen did not have written permission to administer the prescribed medication, every six months. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Two staff members didn't obtain the required training within 90 days of employment (C. Anthony and B. Cowans). .1102(g) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One staff member didn't complete the required training within one year of employment. (B. Cowans) .1102(a) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. We discussed Modernization of QRIS. It was highly recommended to get the staff and training worksheet current, ensure a DCDEE WORKS status letter is on file for each staff member, including all lead teachers, teachers, group leaders. 2. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care 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. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 3. A roster report was run during the visit and no staff were listed. It was highly recommended to contact the ABCMS/CBC unit and seek assistance to ensure this process is completed. The center roster report must be maintained current. 4. It was recommended to contact the Community Health Nurses to initiate their support services related to medications, required forms and the center process related to maintaining compliance with child care rules. 5. We reviewed the supervision of children and it was recommended to review how staff should handle being straddled in between the outside classroom door with children outside and a parent arriving to drop off their child. How should staff be best positioned to ensure adequate supervision is maintained. 6. The final summary will be emailed before the close of business. The summary could not be finalized due to a scheduled appointment. The handwritten summary and cited violations were reviewed with both administrators prior to my departure. Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Monday, August 4, 2025. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 3687 Stallings Road, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/21/2025 Number Present: 43 Completed Date: 7/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:30 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 for compliance with applicable child care requirements during a Routine Unannounced Visit. The four-star rated licensed center continued to operate with meeting enhanced ratios and space. Ms. Patrina Ellison, an on-site administrator, was present and working in the facility. Ms. Zykiah Jasper, regional manager, arrived shortly after the visit began. The child care item number listing dated April 2025 was used to identify and determine non-compliance. The following sections were monitored for compliance: A1, B1, C4, C5, C6, E1, E2, F3, G1, G3, G4 and G5. A walk through of spaces # 1-5, kitchen, one van and the outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. The center does not provide daily transportation to and from a child’s home but does provide field trips during the summer months for enrolled school-age children. The center did not have photographs of each school age child when field trips were provided thus far this summer. Children were monitored engaged in outdoor play, eating lunch and preparing to nap on cots with linen. The infant room/space #1 was monitored with a room temperature of 75.4F. Concerns were raised as to why the room temperature was so warm in the infant room at 9:30 am. The room thermostat was connected to other space #3. The staff in space #3 had altered the room temperature. The room temperature was lowered, and the classroom door was left open to help the room temperature cool down. An evacuation crib was placed in front of the classroom door. It was recommended to purchase and install a locked cover over the thermostat, so staff won’t be able to alter the classroom temperatures. The infant room temperature may not exceed 75F. A return to the classroom was made to ensure the classroom temperature was lowered and read 73F. In space #1 the posted Center Medical Emergency Care Plan was not current. The plan was replaced with the most current plan during the visit. Classrooms #2, 3, and 4 were monitored in need of labeling and more materials. Staff stated developing a list of materials needed and giving it to the administrator. The center and operator must develop a better plan to ensure materials are added to classrooms regularly. In space #4 a large wall vent cover was monitored laying next to the vent. The vent filter was monitored separated and contents in the wall were exposed and accessible to school age children. There was a support person (D. Coleman) who accompanied Ms. Jasper. Her file was monitored for compliance. One new staff member was hired since the last visit on May 1, 2025. One new staff member’s file was monitored for compliance (L. Acker). The staff and training worksheets from the last AC visit completed February of 2025 were used to monitor safety training compliance. Two staff members did not complete CMT training within ninety days of employment. One staff member didn’t complete Health and Safety Training within one year of their employment. One staff member didn’t obtain twenty (20) hours of annual in-service training. Mulch requirements were noted on the monthly playground inspections since May 2025. Mulch has not been obtained or installed over the required stationary play equipment since the monthly inspection reports listed mulch as needing more mulch. There were large vines and tree limbs hanging over the children’s playground that should be trimmed/pruned back. We discussed the ABCMS portal and the required process. A DCDEE roster report was run during the visit. No staff were listed and linked. The administrator must make this a priority to finalize and maintain. One child was monitored with prescribed medication, current medical action plan but without written permission from the parent, every six months. It was recommended to connect with the community health nurses through Smart Start to help review existing forms, medications and center processes. Monthly outdoor inspections, incident log, monthly fire drills and quarterly safety drills were monitored completed, and current. The center’s printed EPR plan and Ready to Go File were monitored. The plan was monitored but the new administrator had not been added. Children’s emergency contact information was not current with current medical action plans. The center’s current allergy list was not maintained in the EPR Ready to Go File. The last sanitation inspection was completed June 4, 2025, with six (6) demerits cited and a Superior classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on December 20, 2024. It was highly recommended to begin your annual inspection process four to six weeks prior to expiration. 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. Sippy cups and water bottles sent from children's homes were monitored not labeled or dated in spaces #2 and #5. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. An indoor wall vent cover was removed and the vent filter and inside of wall contents were accessible to school age children in space #4. .0601(c) 832 There was no written emergency medical care (EMC) plan. The posted EMC plan in space #1 was monitored not current. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 886 The temperature in a room where infants aged 12 months or younger where sleeping exceeded 75 degrees. The infant room temperature was monitored at 75.4 degrees in space #1. .0606(a)(5) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. Two staff members did not obtain their required number of annual in-service training hours (20 hours per staff member) by their dates of hire. .1103(a) 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. School age children transported during summer field trips did not have photographs of the children transported. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The center's ABCMS roster report was run during the visit and no existing staff were linked. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The outdoor play areas/stationary equipment did not meet six inches in depth. .0605(k)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. One child with an epi pen did not have written permission to administer the prescribed medication, every six months. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Two staff members didn't obtain the required training within 90 days of employment (C. Anthony and B. Cowans). .1102(g) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One staff member didn't complete the required training within one year of employment. (B. Cowans) .1102(a) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. We discussed Modernization of QRIS. It was highly recommended to get the staff and training worksheet current, ensure a DCDEE WORKS status letter is on file for each staff member, including all lead teachers, teachers, group leaders. 2. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care 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. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 3. A roster report was run during the visit and no staff were listed. It was highly recommended to contact the ABCMS/CBC unit and seek assistance to ensure this process is completed. The center roster report must be maintained current. 4. It was recommended to contact the Community Health Nurses to initiate their support services related to medications, required forms and the center process related to maintaining compliance with child care rules. 5. We reviewed the supervision of children and it was recommended to review how staff should handle being straddled in between the outside classroom door with children outside and a parent arriving to drop off their child. How should staff be best positioned to ensure adequate supervision is maintained. 6. The final summary will be emailed before the close of business. The summary could not be finalized due to a scheduled appointment. The handwritten summary and cited violations were reviewed with both administrators prior to my departure. Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Monday, August 4, 2025. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 3687 Stallings Road, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/21/2025 Number Present: 43 Completed Date: 7/21/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:30 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 for compliance with applicable child care requirements during a Routine Unannounced Visit. The four-star rated licensed center continued to operate with meeting enhanced ratios and space. Ms. Patrina Ellison, an on-site administrator, was present and working in the facility. Ms. Zykiah Jasper, regional manager, arrived shortly after the visit began. The child care item number listing dated April 2025 was used to identify and determine non-compliance. The following sections were monitored for compliance: A1, B1, C4, C5, C6, E1, E2, F3, G1, G3, G4 and G5. A walk through of spaces # 1-5, kitchen, one van and the outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. The center does not provide daily transportation to and from a child’s home but does provide field trips during the summer months for enrolled school-age children. The center did not have photographs of each school age child when field trips were provided thus far this summer. Children were monitored engaged in outdoor play, eating lunch and preparing to nap on cots with linen. The infant room/space #1 was monitored with a room temperature of 75.4F. Concerns were raised as to why the room temperature was so warm in the infant room at 9:30 am. The room thermostat was connected to other space #3. The staff in space #3 had altered the room temperature. The room temperature was lowered, and the classroom door was left open to help the room temperature cool down. An evacuation crib was placed in front of the classroom door. It was recommended to purchase and install a locked cover over the thermostat, so staff won’t be able to alter the classroom temperatures. The infant room temperature may not exceed 75F. A return to the classroom was made to ensure the classroom temperature was lowered and read 73F. In space #1 the posted Center Medical Emergency Care Plan was not current. The plan was replaced with the most current plan during the visit. Classrooms #2, 3, and 4 were monitored in need of labeling and more materials. Staff stated developing a list of materials needed and giving it to the administrator. The center and operator must develop a better plan to ensure materials are added to classrooms regularly. In space #4 a large wall vent cover was monitored laying next to the vent. The vent filter was monitored separated and contents in the wall were exposed and accessible to school age children. There was a support person (D. Coleman) who accompanied Ms. Jasper. Her file was monitored for compliance. One new staff member was hired since the last visit on May 1, 2025. One new staff member’s file was monitored for compliance (L. Acker). The staff and training worksheets from the last AC visit completed February of 2025 were used to monitor safety training compliance. Two staff members did not complete CMT training within ninety days of employment. One staff member didn’t complete Health and Safety Training within one year of their employment. One staff member didn’t obtain twenty (20) hours of annual in-service training. Mulch requirements were noted on the monthly playground inspections since May 2025. Mulch has not been obtained or installed over the required stationary play equipment since the monthly inspection reports listed mulch as needing more mulch. There were large vines and tree limbs hanging over the children’s playground that should be trimmed/pruned back. We discussed the ABCMS portal and the required process. A DCDEE roster report was run during the visit. No staff were listed and linked. The administrator must make this a priority to finalize and maintain. One child was monitored with prescribed medication, current medical action plan but without written permission from the parent, every six months. It was recommended to connect with the community health nurses through Smart Start to help review existing forms, medications and center processes. Monthly outdoor inspections, incident log, monthly fire drills and quarterly safety drills were monitored completed, and current. The center’s printed EPR plan and Ready to Go File were monitored. The plan was monitored but the new administrator had not been added. Children’s emergency contact information was not current with current medical action plans. The center’s current allergy list was not maintained in the EPR Ready to Go File. The last sanitation inspection was completed June 4, 2025, with six (6) demerits cited and a Superior classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on December 20, 2024. It was highly recommended to begin your annual inspection process four to six weeks prior to expiration. 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. Sippy cups and water bottles sent from children's homes were monitored not labeled or dated in spaces #2 and #5. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. An indoor wall vent cover was removed and the vent filter and inside of wall contents were accessible to school age children in space #4. .0601(c) 832 There was no written emergency medical care (EMC) plan. The posted EMC plan in space #1 was monitored not current. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 886 The temperature in a room where infants aged 12 months or younger where sleeping exceeded 75 degrees. The infant room temperature was monitored at 75.4 degrees in space #1. .0606(a)(5) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. Two staff members did not obtain their required number of annual in-service training hours (20 hours per staff member) by their dates of hire. .1103(a) 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. School age children transported during summer field trips did not have photographs of the children transported. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The center's ABCMS roster report was run during the visit and no existing staff were linked. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The outdoor play areas/stationary equipment did not meet six inches in depth. .0605(k)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. One child with an epi pen did not have written permission to administer the prescribed medication, every six months. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Two staff members didn't obtain the required training within 90 days of employment (C. Anthony and B. Cowans). .1102(g) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One staff member didn't complete the required training within one year of employment. (B. Cowans) .1102(a) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. We discussed Modernization of QRIS. It was highly recommended to get the staff and training worksheet current, ensure a DCDEE WORKS status letter is on file for each staff member, including all lead teachers, teachers, group leaders. 2. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care 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. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 3. A roster report was run during the visit and no staff were listed. It was highly recommended to contact the ABCMS/CBC unit and seek assistance to ensure this process is completed. The center roster report must be maintained current. 4. It was recommended to contact the Community Health Nurses to initiate their support services related to medications, required forms and the center process related to maintaining compliance with child care rules. 5. We reviewed the supervision of children and it was recommended to review how staff should handle being straddled in between the outside classroom door with children outside and a parent arriving to drop off their child. How should staff be best positioned to ensure adequate supervision is maintained. 6. The final summary will be emailed before the close of business. The summary could not be finalized due to a scheduled appointment. The handwritten summary and cited violations were reviewed with both administrators prior to my departure. Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Monday, August 4, 2025. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 3687 Stallings Road, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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 .0902 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/3/2025 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 2/3/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival at the center, I was greeted at the front door by the regional manager, Ms. Jasper. Child Care Consultant, Kaye Dunlap accompanied me today to assist with the visit. The center maintained a four-star rated license and continued to meet enhanced ratios and space. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated November 2024 were used to document compliance. Spaces #1-5, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and one van were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored, engaged in free play, diapering routines, and daily outdoor time and eating lunch. Sixty children were monitored enrolled. Six children’s records were selected and monitored for compliance. Six children were monitored without an updated or annual emergency authorization. The center’s approved and implemented curriculum with four-year-old children was monitored implemented with Teaching Strategies. Staff should continue to work on quarterly assessments of the four-year-old children, and charting children’s responses on a dry erase board or easel. We also discussed implementing the theme more in the classroom. Trees were the identified theme in the classroom. There were limited materials monitored that reflected trees in the classroom. Staff and Training worksheets were provided and monitored. One staff member did not complete the health and safety training within their first year of employment. The center’s EPR plan was monitored for compliance and current. The EPR ready to go file were monitored for compliance. The new administrator will need to update the EPR plan with her contact information after she obtains EPR training. The new administrator will have four months from her date of hire to obtain the required training. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored. The next required drill will be due no later than April 26, 2025. Monthly playground inspections were not documented for December and January. Two infant feeding schedules were monitored not current. Two toddlers under fifteen months who transitioned to space 2 for the day didn’t have posted feeding schedules. We discussed developing a transition checklist so staff can ensure the required items that should be transitioned with the child, are transitioned. The daily attendance with children’s arrival and departure times were monitored documented and current for today. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. Monthly inspections were conducted and compliance issued noted and corrected. We discussed enhancing the infant and toddler outdoor play spaces. We discussed possibly adding artificial turf and bringing or storing more portable items outside. We discussed bringing blankets outside for staff to place children on. We discussed how non mobile children are taking outside daily. Either a bye-bye buggy or infant strollers should be utilized. The van used to transport children was monitored for compliance. The front right tire was monitored needing some air added. Two children were monitored without a photograph. We discussed placing the first aid contents in a zip lock bag so it could be stored in the glove compartment. Current inspections, plates, registration with current insurance were monitored for compliance. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on October 16, 2024, (7) seven demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on December 20, 2024. It was recommended to begin the annual inspection process 4-6 weeks prior to expiration. The DCDEE annual fire inspection report must be completed by the fire inspector. Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). There were two toddlers under 15 months where their feeding schedules were not updated/current. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Monthly playground inspections were not completed for December and January. .0605(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. Two children were monitored without a photograph maintained in the vehicle used for transportation. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1311 Emergency medical care information was not on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and/or was not updated as changes occurred or at least annually for each child. Six children were monitored without annual emergency authorization. .0802(c) 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. One staff member did not complete the required H & S training within one year from her date of employment. .1103(b) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. It was recommended to purchase the third edition of ITERS and ECERS and begin training staff. There are several resources available on the NCRLAP website at www.NCRLAP.org. It was recommended to take advantage of the training available. 2. The center administrators have and know how to link employees and print the roster report from the ABCMS. The administrative staff are still working to link the staff applicants within the ABCMS. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care 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. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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 in 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. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 3. We discussed ensuring all milk sent from home is labeled and dated and sent home on Friday’s. The containers of milk must be maintained in a commercial or full-sized refrigerator. 4. We discussed the operator’s husband obtaining and maintaining a CBC qualification letter on file. The operator at minimal should be added to the center’s staff and training worksheets and her CBC qualification tracked and maintained current. The operator’s husband, Mr. Walker, was on-site assisting with a repair in a bathroom. He was not left alone or around the children. If he is going to work or complete repairs in the building during operating hours, he must obtain and maintain a CBC qualification. If he completed work in the building during non-operating hours, he would not be required to obtain and maintain a CBC qualification. 5. We encouraged the director’s leadership academy via CCRI for the new administrator. 6. We discussed updating the EPR and Emergency Medical Care Plan. Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Monday, January 17, 2025. You may email me your letter of correction. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 7870 Woodmere Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/3/2025 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 2/3/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival at the center, I was greeted at the front door by the regional manager, Ms. Jasper. Child Care Consultant, Kaye Dunlap accompanied me today to assist with the visit. The center maintained a four-star rated license and continued to meet enhanced ratios and space. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated November 2024 were used to document compliance. Spaces #1-5, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and one van were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored, engaged in free play, diapering routines, and daily outdoor time and eating lunch. Sixty children were monitored enrolled. Six children’s records were selected and monitored for compliance. Six children were monitored without an updated or annual emergency authorization. The center’s approved and implemented curriculum with four-year-old children was monitored implemented with Teaching Strategies. Staff should continue to work on quarterly assessments of the four-year-old children, and charting children’s responses on a dry erase board or easel. We also discussed implementing the theme more in the classroom. Trees were the identified theme in the classroom. There were limited materials monitored that reflected trees in the classroom. Staff and Training worksheets were provided and monitored. One staff member did not complete the health and safety training within their first year of employment. The center’s EPR plan was monitored for compliance and current. The EPR ready to go file were monitored for compliance. The new administrator will need to update the EPR plan with her contact information after she obtains EPR training. The new administrator will have four months from her date of hire to obtain the required training. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored. The next required drill will be due no later than April 26, 2025. Monthly playground inspections were not documented for December and January. Two infant feeding schedules were monitored not current. Two toddlers under fifteen months who transitioned to space 2 for the day didn’t have posted feeding schedules. We discussed developing a transition checklist so staff can ensure the required items that should be transitioned with the child, are transitioned. The daily attendance with children’s arrival and departure times were monitored documented and current for today. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. Monthly inspections were conducted and compliance issued noted and corrected. We discussed enhancing the infant and toddler outdoor play spaces. We discussed possibly adding artificial turf and bringing or storing more portable items outside. We discussed bringing blankets outside for staff to place children on. We discussed how non mobile children are taking outside daily. Either a bye-bye buggy or infant strollers should be utilized. The van used to transport children was monitored for compliance. The front right tire was monitored needing some air added. Two children were monitored without a photograph. We discussed placing the first aid contents in a zip lock bag so it could be stored in the glove compartment. Current inspections, plates, registration with current insurance were monitored for compliance. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on October 16, 2024, (7) seven demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on December 20, 2024. It was recommended to begin the annual inspection process 4-6 weeks prior to expiration. The DCDEE annual fire inspection report must be completed by the fire inspector. Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). There were two toddlers under 15 months where their feeding schedules were not updated/current. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Monthly playground inspections were not completed for December and January. .0605(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. Two children were monitored without a photograph maintained in the vehicle used for transportation. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1311 Emergency medical care information was not on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and/or was not updated as changes occurred or at least annually for each child. Six children were monitored without annual emergency authorization. .0802(c) 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. One staff member did not complete the required H & S training within one year from her date of employment. .1103(b) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. It was recommended to purchase the third edition of ITERS and ECERS and begin training staff. There are several resources available on the NCRLAP website at www.NCRLAP.org. It was recommended to take advantage of the training available. 2. The center administrators have and know how to link employees and print the roster report from the ABCMS. The administrative staff are still working to link the staff applicants within the ABCMS. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care 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. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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 in 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. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 3. We discussed ensuring all milk sent from home is labeled and dated and sent home on Friday’s. The containers of milk must be maintained in a commercial or full-sized refrigerator. 4. We discussed the operator’s husband obtaining and maintaining a CBC qualification letter on file. The operator at minimal should be added to the center’s staff and training worksheets and her CBC qualification tracked and maintained current. The operator’s husband, Mr. Walker, was on-site assisting with a repair in a bathroom. He was not left alone or around the children. If he is going to work or complete repairs in the building during operating hours, he must obtain and maintain a CBC qualification. If he completed work in the building during non-operating hours, he would not be required to obtain and maintain a CBC qualification. 5. We encouraged the director’s leadership academy via CCRI for the new administrator. 6. We discussed updating the EPR and Emergency Medical Care Plan. Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Monday, January 17, 2025. You may email me your letter of correction. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 7870 Woodmere Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/3/2025 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 2/3/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 270 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival at the center, I was greeted at the front door by the regional manager, Ms. Jasper. Child Care Consultant, Kaye Dunlap accompanied me today to assist with the visit. The center maintained a four-star rated license and continued to meet enhanced ratios and space. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated November 2024 were used to document compliance. Spaces #1-5, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and one van were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored, engaged in free play, diapering routines, and daily outdoor time and eating lunch. Sixty children were monitored enrolled. Six children’s records were selected and monitored for compliance. Six children were monitored without an updated or annual emergency authorization. The center’s approved and implemented curriculum with four-year-old children was monitored implemented with Teaching Strategies. Staff should continue to work on quarterly assessments of the four-year-old children, and charting children’s responses on a dry erase board or easel. We also discussed implementing the theme more in the classroom. Trees were the identified theme in the classroom. There were limited materials monitored that reflected trees in the classroom. Staff and Training worksheets were provided and monitored. One staff member did not complete the health and safety training within their first year of employment. The center’s EPR plan was monitored for compliance and current. The EPR ready to go file were monitored for compliance. The new administrator will need to update the EPR plan with her contact information after she obtains EPR training. The new administrator will have four months from her date of hire to obtain the required training. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored. The next required drill will be due no later than April 26, 2025. Monthly playground inspections were not documented for December and January. Two infant feeding schedules were monitored not current. Two toddlers under fifteen months who transitioned to space 2 for the day didn’t have posted feeding schedules. We discussed developing a transition checklist so staff can ensure the required items that should be transitioned with the child, are transitioned. The daily attendance with children’s arrival and departure times were monitored documented and current for today. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. Monthly inspections were conducted and compliance issued noted and corrected. We discussed enhancing the infant and toddler outdoor play spaces. We discussed possibly adding artificial turf and bringing or storing more portable items outside. We discussed bringing blankets outside for staff to place children on. We discussed how non mobile children are taking outside daily. Either a bye-bye buggy or infant strollers should be utilized. The van used to transport children was monitored for compliance. The front right tire was monitored needing some air added. Two children were monitored without a photograph. We discussed placing the first aid contents in a zip lock bag so it could be stored in the glove compartment. Current inspections, plates, registration with current insurance were monitored for compliance. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on October 16, 2024, (7) seven demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on December 20, 2024. It was recommended to begin the annual inspection process 4-6 weeks prior to expiration. The DCDEE annual fire inspection report must be completed by the fire inspector. Violation Number Comment Rule 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence). There were two toddlers under 15 months where their feeding schedules were not updated/current. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Monthly playground inspections were not completed for December and January. .0605(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. Two children were monitored without a photograph maintained in the vehicle used for transportation. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1311 Emergency medical care information was not on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and/or was not updated as changes occurred or at least annually for each child. Six children were monitored without annual emergency authorization. .0802(c) 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. One staff member did not complete the required H & S training within one year from her date of employment. .1103(b) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. It was recommended to purchase the third edition of ITERS and ECERS and begin training staff. There are several resources available on the NCRLAP website at www.NCRLAP.org. It was recommended to take advantage of the training available. 2. The center administrators have and know how to link employees and print the roster report from the ABCMS. The administrative staff are still working to link the staff applicants within the ABCMS. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care 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. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. 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 in 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. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. 3. We discussed ensuring all milk sent from home is labeled and dated and sent home on Friday’s. The containers of milk must be maintained in a commercial or full-sized refrigerator. 4. We discussed the operator’s husband obtaining and maintaining a CBC qualification letter on file. The operator at minimal should be added to the center’s staff and training worksheets and her CBC qualification tracked and maintained current. The operator’s husband, Mr. Walker, was on-site assisting with a repair in a bathroom. He was not left alone or around the children. If he is going to work or complete repairs in the building during operating hours, he must obtain and maintain a CBC qualification. If he completed work in the building during non-operating hours, he would not be required to obtain and maintain a CBC qualification. 5. We encouraged the director’s leadership academy via CCRI for the new administrator. 6. We discussed updating the EPR and Emergency Medical Care Plan. Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Monday, January 17, 2025. You may email me your letter of correction. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 7870 Woodmere Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/25/2024 Number Present: 47 Completed Date: 7/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 01:00 PM Time Out: 05:00 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 unannounced visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements during an Administrative Action Visit Follow Up. Upon arrival at the four-star rated center, the on-site administrator, Ms. Darlene Lemons greeted me at the front door. Child Care Center Item Number Listing dated March 2024 was used to verify non-compliance during the visit. The following compliance sections were monitored for compliance: A1-supervision, B1-ratio, C4-CPR, C5-FA, C6-special training, E1-storage of hazardous products, E2-storage of medicine, F3-space, G1-staff records, G3-program records, G4-license posted and G5-restrictions. A walk through of spaces 1-5 were conducted with Ms. Lemons after the received administrative action was reviewed. The received Written Warning was monitored posted in the front center window. The administrative action was issued June 20, 2024. The entire action was reviewed with Ms. Lemons in the center office. We reviewed the corrective action plan components #1-4. Ms. Lemons stated contacting Ms. Kappas at CCRI and has the mandatory training for all staff scheduled for August 5, 2024. It was explained to Ms. Lemons the development of written policies should not begin until after the mandatory training is completed first. I observed signage on the front door that read, staff were required to place their cell phones in the provided box. Upon entering the office, I determined, not one cell phone was monitored stored in the box. I explained to Ms. Lemons, if that is the center employee procedure, then the staff must follow the center policy. I encouraged Ms. Lemons to ensure she follows center policy and hold staff accountable for not following the policy. Children were observed participating in eating their PM snack of crackers, cheese and water, tummy time or engaged in free center play. School age children were observed coloring, writing, and playing board games. In space #1 the lead teacher was sweeping the floor when two non-mobile infants were on the carpeted floor. I explained to the teacher, tummy time was meant to be interactive between the caregiver and non-mobile infant. I also explained when infants are partaking in tummy time it is expected that the caregiver remains on the floor with the non-mobile infant to be within arm’s reach to be able to render immediate assistance if warranted. The caregiver stated wanting to remove cracker crumbs from the floor before a mobile infant picked it up from the floor. I explained the proper and safest way to appropriate meet both needs would have been to relocate the non-mobile infants to a secure location such as their crib, pack n play or highchair while she swept the floor. In space #3, we discussed practices to reflect full implementation of the approved curriculum. I did not observe any charting of children’s responses. It was explained by charting the learning objective for the day, parents will also observe the topic and discussion topics with their children outside of the center. It would help to extend the children’s learning and understanding of the topics or concepts presented that day in the classroom. In space #5, we confirmed the enhanced room capacity to be nineteen (19) children. The enhanced staff to child ratio in space #5 is no more than eighteen (18) two-year-old children at any given time. A correction was made to the last space, capacity, staff/child ratio worksheet in the Regulatory system. Three new staff were hired during the month of July 2024. The staff and training worksheets were not updated with the three new staff. The following new staff files were monitored for compliance: J. Reid, R. Wingate, and B. Cowans. The three new staff did not have a DCDEE staff medical report on file by their first day of employment. It was recommended to Ms. Lemons to utilize the DCDEE Staff File Checklist to help with compliance with staff records. The staff file checklist indicates what is required and by when. I highly encouraged Ms. Lemons to maintain the staff and training worksheet current. Ms. Lemon’s was asked to update the staff and training worksheets and email it to me no later than Tuesday of next week. The last staff and training worksheet on file was monitored to determine if any other staff safety certifications and CBCs were current. One staff person did not obtain their CMT within 90 days of employment. The staff person completed the required training, but it was not within the 90 days of employment. The last sanitation inspection was conducted March 1, 2024, with eight (8) demerits cited and a Superior classification issued. The last fire inspection conducted was January 5, 2024. Ms. Lemons was reminded to begin the annual inspection process 4-6 weeks prior to expiration. The last annual compliance visit was completed February 6, 2024. Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Three new staff were hired in July and did not have a DCDEE medical report on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 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. One staff person hired March 4, 2024, did not obtain the required CMT training within 90 days of employment. The staff person completed the required CMT training on Jully 18, 2024. .1102(g) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. We discussed a staff person who stated she thought she had food poisoning. I inquired if she was throwing up and/or had diarrhea. The staff person responded she had not thrown up since early this am and was experiencing loose bowls. I informed Ms. Lemons and explained to both the staff person and Ms. Lemons the staff person should have communicated to Ms. Lemons and should not have worked today. I encouraged communication with parents of the children in the classroom, so if their children display any of the same symptoms to remain home and follow the center sick policy. I also encouraged Ms. Lemons to review with each center staff the staff sick policy. It was unknown if the staff sick policy was different from the children’s sick policy. 2. Recommendations were made to chart children’s responses in the four-year-old classroom. 3. Support was shared regarding expectations for non-mobile infant’s tummy time. Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Thursday, August 8, 2024. You may email me your letter of correction. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 7870 Woodmere Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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 .1801 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0324-274L Visit Date: 3/27/2024 Number Present: 38 Completed Date: 3/28/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:30 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 investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements during a complaint visit. Upon arrival at the center, I was greeted by the center administrator, Ms. Lemons. The administrator escorted me to an office to place my equipment down, and then I conducted a walk-through of spaces #1-5 with Ms. Lemons. Today, supervision and staff to child ratios were monitored in compliance in each applicable space. After the walk-through was conducted, the allegations were read aloud to Ms. Lemons as follows: Children were not adequately supervised. Appropriate ratios were not maintained. The administrator and three staff were interviewed. On March 14, 2024, an incident report was received from Ms. Lemons, On-Site Administrator. There were questions regarding the written statements issued from two caregivers who were working together in space #3 when the incident occurred, and a child sustained an injury that required medical professional attention. A complaint report was issued based on not enough clear information was provided by the center to determine if adequate supervision of children was provided, and if required staff to child ratios were maintained when the reported incident occurred. The administrator stated it was reported to her that a staff person left the room but was not clear when the staff person left the room. She stated a staff person, yelled out to her to come to space #3 from the classroom door, and when she arrived at space #3, both teachers were present with twelve (12) children. Ms. Lemons stated a staff person was holding the child and applying pressure above the child’s eye with a paper towel. Ms. Lemons returned to her office to retrieve her phone to take a picture of the child’s eye area and to contact the child’s parents. I then interviewed the cook/van driver. The cook stated that she did not see or recall a teacher who came to the kitchen to request an additional plate for a child who arrived after breakfast was served. The two staff assigned to space #3 were then interviewed. Both staff stated one of them left the classroom to get a breakfast plate of food from the kitchen for a child who just arrived. There were twelve (12) children reported present ranging in age from two years to three years of age. Five of the twelve children were in the bathroom, toileting with one of the teachers, when the injury occurred to the child in the classroom. The teacher in the bathroom reported hearing a child cry first and then coming out of the bathroom and seeing the crying child holding their forehead area with their hand. The staff person stated not seeing the other teacher in the room and going to the classroom door to call for the administrator. The other staff person admitted to leaving the classroom for approximately 30 to 40 seconds to retrieve a breakfast plate for one child who had just arrived. The staff member reported after returning to the classroom, she began assisting the child who had just arrived by assisting the child with hand washing. The sink was closest to the classroom entrance door. The incident occurred on the back left corner side of the room. The room was monitored as “L” shaped. The staff member stated she was at the opposite end of the classroom where six of the children were engaged in free play while assisting one child at the sink. The staff member reported not seeing the incident occur but hearing a child cry after the incident occurred. The staff member responsible for the supervision of the seven children who were not participating in toileting agreed she was not positioned in the classroom to maximize her ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance. We discussed the six children engaged in free play should have been instructed to come to the side of the classroom she was located in while assisting a child wash their hands to be able to maximize her ability to supervise and render assistance. The staff member stated she was not moving about in the indoor space when the incident occurred. The staff member was asked if she knew where each child was in the classroom and their activities. The staff member replied, she knew the children were over by the block center, but the children were engaged in “chaos.” I inquired what she meant by “chaos”. The staff member stated the other staff person dumps toys on the ground for children to play with and it causes the children to fight and fall over too many items left on the floor. It was suggested having quiet activities or a basket of hand-held toys/books would help with child supervision and guidance if the children were closer to where the teacher was functioning in the classroom. We also discussed communicating with the co-teacher in the classroom. One staff was not responsible for the supervision of the remaining seven children in the classroom because she was in the bathroom supervising five children with toileting. The children were two and three years of age and developmentally, a staff person needed to be in close proximity to provide appropriate guidance and supervision to the children. The two staff appeared not to be working well together and potentially impacted their ability to communicate with each other. Based on my observations and discussions with four staff, the allegation of children were not adequately supervised was SUBSTANTIATED. The staff member responsible for the supervision of children admitted to not maximizing her ability to supervise the seven children in her care and as a result the child sustained an injury. The caregiver was not fully sure what each child was engaged in when the incident occurred because she only described what the children were doing as “chaos”. The children were two and three years of age and the staff member did not respond to the children’s developmentally appropriate behaviors/activities as described as chaos. Based on my observations and discussions with four staff, the allegation of appropriate ratios were not maintained was SUBSTANTIATED. Both caregivers admitted one staff member was left with twelve (12) children for approximately 30 to 40 seconds. The required ratio was 1:9. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. two-year-old children received an injury. One staff person was in the bathroom toileting five children and the other staff person was on the opposite side of the classroom, supposedly assisting one child washing their hands. Neither of the two staff witnessed what occurred to the child but heard the cries of the child after the injury occurred. Neither of the two staff present were actively moving about the space or aware of what the children were doing when the incident occurred. .1801(a)(1-5) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. A large outside double paned window located in space #3 was monitored with a hole and encircled crack around the hole. Children have access to the broken window from their outside play area. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. A staff member left a group of two- and three-year-olds with one caregiver in space #3 for approximately one minute to go to the kitchen and retrieve a breakfast plate of food for a child who had just arrived at the classroom. There were twelve (12) children present with one caregiver, when the staff member left the classroom. The required ratio was 1:9. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1794 A Four- or Five- Star program serving four-year-old children was not implementing an approved curriculum. On February 6, 2024, a violation was cited for failure to implement an approved curriculum for four-year-old children. Additional time was granted for compliance. The center now has the approved curriculum teacher's guidebooks/kit, but the curriculum has not been implemented in the classroom/space #3. .2802(d) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. SECTION .1800 - STAFF/CHILD INTERACTIONS AND BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Children shall be adequately supervised at all times in child care centers. Adequate supervision shall mean that: (1) staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance; (2) staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) staff must know where each child is located and be aware of the children's activities at all times; (4) staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child; and (5) staff must be able to see and hear children aged birth to five years old while the children are eating. All of the conditions in this Paragraph shall apply except when emergencies necessitate that adequate supervision is impossible. Documentation of emergencies shall be maintained and available for review by Division representatives upon request. (b) For groups of children aged two years or older, the staff/child ratio during nap time shall comply with the requirements of this Chapter if at least one person remains in the room, all children are visible to that person, and the total number of required staff are on the premises and within calling distance of the rooms occupied by children. History Note: Authority G.S. 110-85; 110-91(7); 143B-168.3; Eff. October 1, 2017. 2. A staff member left the classroom to retrieve a breakfast plate from the kitchen for a child who arrived shortly after 9:00 am. The staff member admitted leaving the classroom of children with one caregiver to go and retrieve the plate. An important concern was raised with the administrator as to emergencies and the staff’s ability to call for assistance. None of the classrooms have a land line and there are not any walkie talkies for staff to use if warranted. There is an operational land line and phone, but there is only one phone, and it is maintained from the primary office. The admitted incidence of a staff person leaving a classroom to retrieve a breakfast plate, leaving a group of toddlers out of required staff to child ratios when the center has a cook does not make for a safe environment for children. It was highly recommended to either install phones in each classroom and kitchen or purchase quality walkie talkies. The center policy does not permit staff to use their personal cell phones while in classrooms. 3. Annual compliance visit was conducted February 6, 2024. A violation was cited for not implementing an approved curriculum in the four-year-old classroom/space #3. Additional time was granted for correction. Today, the Creative Curriculum guidebook/kit was monitored on site. However, staff have not had training to know how to implement the approved curriculum. No training has been scheduled to date. A call was made to discuss the issue with the licensing supervisor. It was explained to Ms. Lemons that the center needs to try to read the information in the guidebooks on implementation and begin to implement the curriculum with the staff in space #3. We discussed assessing the four-year old’s letter recognition or charting children’s observations/responses. We discussed beginning to develop child portfolios. Staff training should occur and be more of a long-term process. It was recommended to reach out to CCRI to inquire about specialized training for staff related to the creative curriculum. I also spoke with the operator and explained since she has four other centers, it would make sense to train all of her staff from all four centers to ensure the approved curriculum was implemented at each licensed site properly. A violation was cited because no attempts were made to implement the approved curriculum after it was sent to the site on February 13, 2024. 4. A double paned window in space #3 was monitored with a hole in the outside glass pane and cracked. The outside glass windowpane must be replaced. 5. A proposed administrative action will be initiated based on the substantiation of both allegations. A return visit will be conducted within the next two weeks. 6. The visit summary could not be completed due to another scheduled appointment. The violations were shared with the administrator prior to my departure. Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Wednesday, April 10, 2024. You may email me your letter of correction. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 7870 Woodmere Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0324-274L Visit Date: 3/27/2024 Number Present: 38 Completed Date: 3/28/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:30 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 investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements during a complaint visit. Upon arrival at the center, I was greeted by the center administrator, Ms. Lemons. The administrator escorted me to an office to place my equipment down, and then I conducted a walk-through of spaces #1-5 with Ms. Lemons. Today, supervision and staff to child ratios were monitored in compliance in each applicable space. After the walk-through was conducted, the allegations were read aloud to Ms. Lemons as follows: Children were not adequately supervised. Appropriate ratios were not maintained. The administrator and three staff were interviewed. On March 14, 2024, an incident report was received from Ms. Lemons, On-Site Administrator. There were questions regarding the written statements issued from two caregivers who were working together in space #3 when the incident occurred, and a child sustained an injury that required medical professional attention. A complaint report was issued based on not enough clear information was provided by the center to determine if adequate supervision of children was provided, and if required staff to child ratios were maintained when the reported incident occurred. The administrator stated it was reported to her that a staff person left the room but was not clear when the staff person left the room. She stated a staff person, yelled out to her to come to space #3 from the classroom door, and when she arrived at space #3, both teachers were present with twelve (12) children. Ms. Lemons stated a staff person was holding the child and applying pressure above the child’s eye with a paper towel. Ms. Lemons returned to her office to retrieve her phone to take a picture of the child’s eye area and to contact the child’s parents. I then interviewed the cook/van driver. The cook stated that she did not see or recall a teacher who came to the kitchen to request an additional plate for a child who arrived after breakfast was served. The two staff assigned to space #3 were then interviewed. Both staff stated one of them left the classroom to get a breakfast plate of food from the kitchen for a child who just arrived. There were twelve (12) children reported present ranging in age from two years to three years of age. Five of the twelve children were in the bathroom, toileting with one of the teachers, when the injury occurred to the child in the classroom. The teacher in the bathroom reported hearing a child cry first and then coming out of the bathroom and seeing the crying child holding their forehead area with their hand. The staff person stated not seeing the other teacher in the room and going to the classroom door to call for the administrator. The other staff person admitted to leaving the classroom for approximately 30 to 40 seconds to retrieve a breakfast plate for one child who had just arrived. The staff member reported after returning to the classroom, she began assisting the child who had just arrived by assisting the child with hand washing. The sink was closest to the classroom entrance door. The incident occurred on the back left corner side of the room. The room was monitored as “L” shaped. The staff member stated she was at the opposite end of the classroom where six of the children were engaged in free play while assisting one child at the sink. The staff member reported not seeing the incident occur but hearing a child cry after the incident occurred. The staff member responsible for the supervision of the seven children who were not participating in toileting agreed she was not positioned in the classroom to maximize her ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance. We discussed the six children engaged in free play should have been instructed to come to the side of the classroom she was located in while assisting a child wash their hands to be able to maximize her ability to supervise and render assistance. The staff member stated she was not moving about in the indoor space when the incident occurred. The staff member was asked if she knew where each child was in the classroom and their activities. The staff member replied, she knew the children were over by the block center, but the children were engaged in “chaos.” I inquired what she meant by “chaos”. The staff member stated the other staff person dumps toys on the ground for children to play with and it causes the children to fight and fall over too many items left on the floor. It was suggested having quiet activities or a basket of hand-held toys/books would help with child supervision and guidance if the children were closer to where the teacher was functioning in the classroom. We also discussed communicating with the co-teacher in the classroom. One staff was not responsible for the supervision of the remaining seven children in the classroom because she was in the bathroom supervising five children with toileting. The children were two and three years of age and developmentally, a staff person needed to be in close proximity to provide appropriate guidance and supervision to the children. The two staff appeared not to be working well together and potentially impacted their ability to communicate with each other. Based on my observations and discussions with four staff, the allegation of children were not adequately supervised was SUBSTANTIATED. The staff member responsible for the supervision of children admitted to not maximizing her ability to supervise the seven children in her care and as a result the child sustained an injury. The caregiver was not fully sure what each child was engaged in when the incident occurred because she only described what the children were doing as “chaos”. The children were two and three years of age and the staff member did not respond to the children’s developmentally appropriate behaviors/activities as described as chaos. Based on my observations and discussions with four staff, the allegation of appropriate ratios were not maintained was SUBSTANTIATED. Both caregivers admitted one staff member was left with twelve (12) children for approximately 30 to 40 seconds. The required ratio was 1:9. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. two-year-old children received an injury. One staff person was in the bathroom toileting five children and the other staff person was on the opposite side of the classroom, supposedly assisting one child washing their hands. Neither of the two staff witnessed what occurred to the child but heard the cries of the child after the injury occurred. Neither of the two staff present were actively moving about the space or aware of what the children were doing when the incident occurred. .1801(a)(1-5) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. A large outside double paned window located in space #3 was monitored with a hole and encircled crack around the hole. Children have access to the broken window from their outside play area. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. A staff member left a group of two- and three-year-olds with one caregiver in space #3 for approximately one minute to go to the kitchen and retrieve a breakfast plate of food for a child who had just arrived at the classroom. There were twelve (12) children present with one caregiver, when the staff member left the classroom. The required ratio was 1:9. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1794 A Four- or Five- Star program serving four-year-old children was not implementing an approved curriculum. On February 6, 2024, a violation was cited for failure to implement an approved curriculum for four-year-old children. Additional time was granted for compliance. The center now has the approved curriculum teacher's guidebooks/kit, but the curriculum has not been implemented in the classroom/space #3. .2802(d) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. SECTION .1800 - STAFF/CHILD INTERACTIONS AND BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Children shall be adequately supervised at all times in child care centers. Adequate supervision shall mean that: (1) staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance; (2) staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) staff must know where each child is located and be aware of the children's activities at all times; (4) staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child; and (5) staff must be able to see and hear children aged birth to five years old while the children are eating. All of the conditions in this Paragraph shall apply except when emergencies necessitate that adequate supervision is impossible. Documentation of emergencies shall be maintained and available for review by Division representatives upon request. (b) For groups of children aged two years or older, the staff/child ratio during nap time shall comply with the requirements of this Chapter if at least one person remains in the room, all children are visible to that person, and the total number of required staff are on the premises and within calling distance of the rooms occupied by children. History Note: Authority G.S. 110-85; 110-91(7); 143B-168.3; Eff. October 1, 2017. 2. A staff member left the classroom to retrieve a breakfast plate from the kitchen for a child who arrived shortly after 9:00 am. The staff member admitted leaving the classroom of children with one caregiver to go and retrieve the plate. An important concern was raised with the administrator as to emergencies and the staff’s ability to call for assistance. None of the classrooms have a land line and there are not any walkie talkies for staff to use if warranted. There is an operational land line and phone, but there is only one phone, and it is maintained from the primary office. The admitted incidence of a staff person leaving a classroom to retrieve a breakfast plate, leaving a group of toddlers out of required staff to child ratios when the center has a cook does not make for a safe environment for children. It was highly recommended to either install phones in each classroom and kitchen or purchase quality walkie talkies. The center policy does not permit staff to use their personal cell phones while in classrooms. 3. Annual compliance visit was conducted February 6, 2024. A violation was cited for not implementing an approved curriculum in the four-year-old classroom/space #3. Additional time was granted for correction. Today, the Creative Curriculum guidebook/kit was monitored on site. However, staff have not had training to know how to implement the approved curriculum. No training has been scheduled to date. A call was made to discuss the issue with the licensing supervisor. It was explained to Ms. Lemons that the center needs to try to read the information in the guidebooks on implementation and begin to implement the curriculum with the staff in space #3. We discussed assessing the four-year old’s letter recognition or charting children’s observations/responses. We discussed beginning to develop child portfolios. Staff training should occur and be more of a long-term process. It was recommended to reach out to CCRI to inquire about specialized training for staff related to the creative curriculum. I also spoke with the operator and explained since she has four other centers, it would make sense to train all of her staff from all four centers to ensure the approved curriculum was implemented at each licensed site properly. A violation was cited because no attempts were made to implement the approved curriculum after it was sent to the site on February 13, 2024. 4. A double paned window in space #3 was monitored with a hole in the outside glass pane and cracked. The outside glass windowpane must be replaced. 5. A proposed administrative action will be initiated based on the substantiation of both allegations. A return visit will be conducted within the next two weeks. 6. The visit summary could not be completed due to another scheduled appointment. The violations were shared with the administrator prior to my departure. Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Wednesday, April 10, 2024. You may email me your letter of correction. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 7870 Woodmere Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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

G.S. 110-85 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0324-274L Visit Date: 3/27/2024 Number Present: 38 Completed Date: 3/28/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:30 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 investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements during a complaint visit. Upon arrival at the center, I was greeted by the center administrator, Ms. Lemons. The administrator escorted me to an office to place my equipment down, and then I conducted a walk-through of spaces #1-5 with Ms. Lemons. Today, supervision and staff to child ratios were monitored in compliance in each applicable space. After the walk-through was conducted, the allegations were read aloud to Ms. Lemons as follows: Children were not adequately supervised. Appropriate ratios were not maintained. The administrator and three staff were interviewed. On March 14, 2024, an incident report was received from Ms. Lemons, On-Site Administrator. There were questions regarding the written statements issued from two caregivers who were working together in space #3 when the incident occurred, and a child sustained an injury that required medical professional attention. A complaint report was issued based on not enough clear information was provided by the center to determine if adequate supervision of children was provided, and if required staff to child ratios were maintained when the reported incident occurred. The administrator stated it was reported to her that a staff person left the room but was not clear when the staff person left the room. She stated a staff person, yelled out to her to come to space #3 from the classroom door, and when she arrived at space #3, both teachers were present with twelve (12) children. Ms. Lemons stated a staff person was holding the child and applying pressure above the child’s eye with a paper towel. Ms. Lemons returned to her office to retrieve her phone to take a picture of the child’s eye area and to contact the child’s parents. I then interviewed the cook/van driver. The cook stated that she did not see or recall a teacher who came to the kitchen to request an additional plate for a child who arrived after breakfast was served. The two staff assigned to space #3 were then interviewed. Both staff stated one of them left the classroom to get a breakfast plate of food from the kitchen for a child who just arrived. There were twelve (12) children reported present ranging in age from two years to three years of age. Five of the twelve children were in the bathroom, toileting with one of the teachers, when the injury occurred to the child in the classroom. The teacher in the bathroom reported hearing a child cry first and then coming out of the bathroom and seeing the crying child holding their forehead area with their hand. The staff person stated not seeing the other teacher in the room and going to the classroom door to call for the administrator. The other staff person admitted to leaving the classroom for approximately 30 to 40 seconds to retrieve a breakfast plate for one child who had just arrived. The staff member reported after returning to the classroom, she began assisting the child who had just arrived by assisting the child with hand washing. The sink was closest to the classroom entrance door. The incident occurred on the back left corner side of the room. The room was monitored as “L” shaped. The staff member stated she was at the opposite end of the classroom where six of the children were engaged in free play while assisting one child at the sink. The staff member reported not seeing the incident occur but hearing a child cry after the incident occurred. The staff member responsible for the supervision of the seven children who were not participating in toileting agreed she was not positioned in the classroom to maximize her ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance. We discussed the six children engaged in free play should have been instructed to come to the side of the classroom she was located in while assisting a child wash their hands to be able to maximize her ability to supervise and render assistance. The staff member stated she was not moving about in the indoor space when the incident occurred. The staff member was asked if she knew where each child was in the classroom and their activities. The staff member replied, she knew the children were over by the block center, but the children were engaged in “chaos.” I inquired what she meant by “chaos”. The staff member stated the other staff person dumps toys on the ground for children to play with and it causes the children to fight and fall over too many items left on the floor. It was suggested having quiet activities or a basket of hand-held toys/books would help with child supervision and guidance if the children were closer to where the teacher was functioning in the classroom. We also discussed communicating with the co-teacher in the classroom. One staff was not responsible for the supervision of the remaining seven children in the classroom because she was in the bathroom supervising five children with toileting. The children were two and three years of age and developmentally, a staff person needed to be in close proximity to provide appropriate guidance and supervision to the children. The two staff appeared not to be working well together and potentially impacted their ability to communicate with each other. Based on my observations and discussions with four staff, the allegation of children were not adequately supervised was SUBSTANTIATED. The staff member responsible for the supervision of children admitted to not maximizing her ability to supervise the seven children in her care and as a result the child sustained an injury. The caregiver was not fully sure what each child was engaged in when the incident occurred because she only described what the children were doing as “chaos”. The children were two and three years of age and the staff member did not respond to the children’s developmentally appropriate behaviors/activities as described as chaos. Based on my observations and discussions with four staff, the allegation of appropriate ratios were not maintained was SUBSTANTIATED. Both caregivers admitted one staff member was left with twelve (12) children for approximately 30 to 40 seconds. The required ratio was 1:9. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. two-year-old children received an injury. One staff person was in the bathroom toileting five children and the other staff person was on the opposite side of the classroom, supposedly assisting one child washing their hands. Neither of the two staff witnessed what occurred to the child but heard the cries of the child after the injury occurred. Neither of the two staff present were actively moving about the space or aware of what the children were doing when the incident occurred. .1801(a)(1-5) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. A large outside double paned window located in space #3 was monitored with a hole and encircled crack around the hole. Children have access to the broken window from their outside play area. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. A staff member left a group of two- and three-year-olds with one caregiver in space #3 for approximately one minute to go to the kitchen and retrieve a breakfast plate of food for a child who had just arrived at the classroom. There were twelve (12) children present with one caregiver, when the staff member left the classroom. The required ratio was 1:9. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1794 A Four- or Five- Star program serving four-year-old children was not implementing an approved curriculum. On February 6, 2024, a violation was cited for failure to implement an approved curriculum for four-year-old children. Additional time was granted for compliance. The center now has the approved curriculum teacher's guidebooks/kit, but the curriculum has not been implemented in the classroom/space #3. .2802(d) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. SECTION .1800 - STAFF/CHILD INTERACTIONS AND BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Children shall be adequately supervised at all times in child care centers. Adequate supervision shall mean that: (1) staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance; (2) staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) staff must know where each child is located and be aware of the children's activities at all times; (4) staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child; and (5) staff must be able to see and hear children aged birth to five years old while the children are eating. All of the conditions in this Paragraph shall apply except when emergencies necessitate that adequate supervision is impossible. Documentation of emergencies shall be maintained and available for review by Division representatives upon request. (b) For groups of children aged two years or older, the staff/child ratio during nap time shall comply with the requirements of this Chapter if at least one person remains in the room, all children are visible to that person, and the total number of required staff are on the premises and within calling distance of the rooms occupied by children. History Note: Authority G.S. 110-85; 110-91(7); 143B-168.3; Eff. October 1, 2017. 2. A staff member left the classroom to retrieve a breakfast plate from the kitchen for a child who arrived shortly after 9:00 am. The staff member admitted leaving the classroom of children with one caregiver to go and retrieve the plate. An important concern was raised with the administrator as to emergencies and the staff’s ability to call for assistance. None of the classrooms have a land line and there are not any walkie talkies for staff to use if warranted. There is an operational land line and phone, but there is only one phone, and it is maintained from the primary office. The admitted incidence of a staff person leaving a classroom to retrieve a breakfast plate, leaving a group of toddlers out of required staff to child ratios when the center has a cook does not make for a safe environment for children. It was highly recommended to either install phones in each classroom and kitchen or purchase quality walkie talkies. The center policy does not permit staff to use their personal cell phones while in classrooms. 3. Annual compliance visit was conducted February 6, 2024. A violation was cited for not implementing an approved curriculum in the four-year-old classroom/space #3. Additional time was granted for correction. Today, the Creative Curriculum guidebook/kit was monitored on site. However, staff have not had training to know how to implement the approved curriculum. No training has been scheduled to date. A call was made to discuss the issue with the licensing supervisor. It was explained to Ms. Lemons that the center needs to try to read the information in the guidebooks on implementation and begin to implement the curriculum with the staff in space #3. We discussed assessing the four-year old’s letter recognition or charting children’s observations/responses. We discussed beginning to develop child portfolios. Staff training should occur and be more of a long-term process. It was recommended to reach out to CCRI to inquire about specialized training for staff related to the creative curriculum. I also spoke with the operator and explained since she has four other centers, it would make sense to train all of her staff from all four centers to ensure the approved curriculum was implemented at each licensed site properly. A violation was cited because no attempts were made to implement the approved curriculum after it was sent to the site on February 13, 2024. 4. A double paned window in space #3 was monitored with a hole in the outside glass pane and cracked. The outside glass windowpane must be replaced. 5. A proposed administrative action will be initiated based on the substantiation of both allegations. A return visit will be conducted within the next two weeks. 6. The visit summary could not be completed due to another scheduled appointment. The violations were shared with the administrator prior to my departure. Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Wednesday, April 10, 2024. You may email me your letter of correction. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 7870 Woodmere Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2024 Number Present: 36 Completed Date: 2/6/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 440 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 05:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival, I was buzzed inside by the on-site administrator, Ms. Darlene Lemons. The center continued to maintain a four-star rated license and continued to meet enhanced space and ratios. The center continued approved to operate first and second shifts. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated August 2023 were used to document compliance. Thirty-six children were present, ranging in age from eight months up to Pre-K five years of age. There were not any school-age children present but twenty-two enrolled. Five operating/approved spaces, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and van were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored eating their lunch, napping on cots with linen, hand washing, diapering, and eating PM snacks. There were no multiples of three of the same toys offered in each classroom. There were books monitored in poor repair and removed from the environment during the walk through. The school age room/space #5 needed manipulatives, board games, math, and science materials. There was one evacuation crib monitored in space #1. Another crib should be purchased when six children are enrolled in the space. There was not any equipment for infant staff to use to get infants outside daily, weather permitting. A bye-bye buggy or strollers should be purchased and used daily unless active precipitation is falling from the sky. The posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized and did not specify what the center will or will not do to keep infant’s sleep environment safe. I also recommended purchasing a thermometer for infant staff to track the classroom temperature, since it is not permitted to exceed 75f. Bottles were labeled and dated. Documentation of safe sleep checks were monitored documented and current. Cribs were labeled and identified if the infant could roll over on their own. Seven children’s files were monitored for compliance. Seven children did not have annual parental permission to participate in activities outside of the fenced area, like monthly fire drills. The center administrator was asked what the implemented curriculum was used in the center. Ms. Lemons stated the center used The Creative Curriculum. While conducting the walk through of the center classrooms, I asked the teaching staff to show me their Teacher’s Guide Book, if quarterly assessments were completed and if each child had a portfolio. I could not see any charting of the children’s responses. The posted lesson plan stated the theme was love but did not see elements of love throughout the center materials or posted in the classrooms. It was recommended to inquire about training from CCRI with staff. Each classroom should have a Foundations book and Teaching Strategies Teacher’s Guide book. Staff and Training worksheets were provided upon request. There were three new staff hired since the last AC visit conducted in February of 2023. Three staff had printed medicals from their applicable doctor. Staff’s medicals must be on the DCDEE Staff Medical Report form. I asked for the operator to be added to the worksheet to help track her CBC qualification dates. One existing staff file was monitored for compliance and found to meet child care requirements. The center’s EPR plan and RTGF were monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not updated annually in the required electronic template provided by DCDEE. The EPR/RTGF was missing the center’s allergy list, medical plans attached to the child’s application, and an area map. A checklist was emailed during the visit. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored for compliance. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. The path of travel the children take from space #5 was monitored deteriorated with missing railing slats, warped wood with exposed hardware. The side white fence was hanging over with a fallen tree on it. The leaning fence caused the entire fence to lean forward causing an entrapment. Pictures were taken by the administrator. Required protective surfacing did not meet child care requirements of six inches in depth. There were exposed tree roots causing potential tripping hazards to staff and children. There were two gates in the back that would not close properly and were dragging across the ground. The center used one van monitored with current inspection, registration, Progressive insurance (expires 1/9/2025). Children’s emergency information was maintained in the binder, but a photograph of each child transported was not attached to the child’s emergency application. We discussed the fire extinguisher and first aid requirements. It was recommended to add the van driver’s emergency contact information to the transportation binder. The last sanitation inspection was conducted July 19, 2023, with six (6) demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on January 5, 2024. It was highly recommended to begin the annual inspection process 4-6 weeks prior to expiration. The center will be due to complete a three-year reassessment later than July 7, 2025. The last ERS were completed on March 18, 2022. The overall average ERS was 4.89. It was recommended to review any items scored under a 5.0 with staff during staff meetings and pursue any CCRI grant programs to help with child environments and staff training/support. Violation Number Comment Rule 468 When three-year-old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. There were not at least multiple of three of the same toys accessible to them. (spaces #3, 4 and 5). .0510(d)(1) 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not 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. Multiples of three toys per each type of toy were not present in spaces #1 and #2. .0510(e)(3) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The side back fence is in poor repair due to a fallen tree limb. The fence is bowed over and caused an entrapment. The side wooden ramp is in poor condition with rotten wooden railings and exposed hardware, missing slats on railing by 2/3 classroom. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There were several exposed tree roots in the back outdoor learning environment. One of the roots was monitored coming through the mulch. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 826 Gates to the fenced outdoor play area did not remain closed while children occupied the area. Two outdoor gates were monitored dragging on the ground. .0605(i) 832 There was no written emergency medical care (EMC) plan. The center EMC plan was not current. The posted plan listed Shawn Wilson who retired from the Health Department over two years ago. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 891 The safe sleep policy did not contain the required information. The center's posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized. The sample policy was posted but did not specify what is required in a SIDS policy. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a)(1-8) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Three new staff hires had medical reports on file but were not completed on the DCDDEE Staff Medical Report form. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 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. Children routinely transported did not have a photograph maintained in the vehicle used to transport them. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. Seven children were monitored without an annual off premises activities form on file. .1005(b)(4) 1794 A Four- or Five- Star program serving four-year-old children was not implementing an approved curriculum. The center administrator stated the Creative Curriculum was implemented. However, there was not one Teacher's Guide on site, no charting of children's responses, or no quarterly assessments. .2802(d) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go File was not current. Children's medical action plans were not attached or maintained with the child's emergency contact information. The center's allergy list and an area map were not monitored maintained in the RTGF. .0607(d)(10) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The center's EPR plan was not updated annually in the DCDEE electronic template. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There were not at least six inches in depth of mulch under and around the stationary play equipment or at the exit points. .0605(k)(1-4) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. Recommendations were made regarding transportation, outdoor environment, outdoor play for infants, CCRI grants, developmentally appropriate activities, health and safety training requirements, CPR/FA requirements. 2. It was recommended to develop quiet activity bags for older children who do not sleep during nap time hours. 3. It was recommended to develop and alter children’s daily outdoor times to reflect the season. The center’s daily schedule should reflect the change to the time-of-day children go outside, weather permitting. 4. It was recommended to work towards the staff obtaining training on the selected curriculum. 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0606 SAFE SLEEP PRACTICES (a) Each center licensed to care for infants aged 12 months or younger shall develop, adopt, and comply with a written safe sleep policy that: (1) specifies that caregivers shall place infants aged 12 months or younger on their backs for sleeping, unless: (A) for an infant aged six months or less, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional; or (B) for an infant older than six months, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional, or a parent or a legal guardian; (2) specifies no pillows, wedges or other positioners, pillow-like toys, blankets, toys, bumper pads, quilts, sheepskins, loose bedding, towels and washcloths, or other objects may be placed with a sleeping infant aged 12 months or younger; (3) specifies that children shall not be swaddled; (4) specifies that nothing shall be placed over the head or face of an infant aged 12 months or younger when the infant is laid down to sleep; (5) specifies that the temperature in the room where infants aged 12 months or younger are sleeping does not exceed 75° F; (6) specifies that caregivers shall visually check, in person, sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger at least every 15 minutes; (7) specifies how caregivers shall document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger; (8) specifies that pacifiers that attach to infant clothing shall not be used with sleeping infants; (9) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger sleep alone in a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; (10) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger are prohibited from sleeping in sitting devices, including car safety seats, strollers, swings, and infant carriers. Infants that fall asleep in sitting devices shall be moved to a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; and (11) specifies any other steps the center shall take to provide a safe sleep environment for infants aged 12 months or younger. (b) The center shall post a copy of its safe sleep policy about infant safe sleep practices in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers are able to view daily. (c) A copy of the center's safe sleep policy shall be given and explained to the parents of an infant aged 12 months or younger on or before the first day the infant attends the center. The parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the policy. The acknowledgement shall contain: (1) the infant's name; (2) the date the infant first attended the center; (3) the date the center's safe sleep policy was given and explained to the parent; and (4) the date the parent signed the acknowledgement. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (d) If a center amends its safe sleep policy, it shall give written notice of the amendment to the parents of all enrolled infants aged 12 months or younger at least 14 days before the amended policy is implemented. Each parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the amendment. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (e) A caregiver shall place a child age 12 months or younger on the child's back for sleeping, unless for a child age 6 months or younger, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional; or for a child older than 6 months, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional or parent. Waivers shall include the following: (1) the infant's name and birth date; (2) the signature and date of the infant's health care professional or parent; (3) if a wedge is needed specify why it is needed and how it is to be used; and (4) the infant's authorized sleep positions. The center shall retain the waiver in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (f) For each infant with a waiver on file at the center as specified in Paragraph (e) of this Rule, a notice shall be posted for quick reference near the infant's crib, bassinet, play pen, cot or mat that shall include: (1) the infant's name; (2) the infant's authorized sleep position; and (3) the location of the signed waiver. No confidential medical information, including an infant's medical diagnosis, shall be shown on the notice. (g) Documents that verify staff member's compliance with visual checks on infants shall be maintained for a minimum of one month. (h) A bed, crib, or cot, equipped with a firm waterproof mattress at least four inches thick and a fitted sheet shall be provided for each child who remains in the center after midnight. The top of bunk beds shall be used by school-age children only. (i) A caregiver shall not place anything over the face of a child during rest time. 5. SECTION .1000 - TRANSPORTATION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .1001 SEAT AND CHILD SAFETY SEATS IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) When children enrolled in a child care center are being transported, each adult and child shall be restrained with an individual seat belt or child safety seat appropriate to the child’s age or weight in accordance with G.S. 20-135.2A located at http://www.buckleupnc.org/occupant-restraint-laws/seat-belt-law-summary/. (b) Only one person shall occupy each seat belt or child safety seat. 10A NCAC 09 .1002 SAFE VEHICLES (a) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall be free of hazards such as, but not limited to, torn upholstery that allows children to remove the interior padding, broken windows, holes in the floor or roof, or tire treads of less than 2/32 of an inch. (b) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. (c) Vehicles shall be insured for liability as required by State laws governing transportation of passengers pursuant to G.S. 20-279.21. (d) Vehicles used to transport children in snowy, icy, and other hazardous weather conditions must be equipped with snow tires or chains as appropriate. 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES (a) The driver or other staff member in the vehicle shall ensure that all children are transferred to an individual who is indicated on the child's application as specified in Rule .0801(a)(7) of this Chapter or as authorized by the parent. (b) Each center shall establish procedures for pick-up and delivery of children to ensure children are protected from danger and not exposed to risk of harm. These procedures shall be communicated to parents, and a copy shall be posted in the center where they can be seen by the parents. (c) A First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be located in each vehicle used to transport children. The First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be mounted or secured if kept in the passenger compartment. (d) 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 by Rule .0802(c) of this Chapter, shall be in the vehicle. (e) The driver shall: (1) be 21 years old or a licensed bus driver; (2) have a valid driver's license of the type required under North Carolina Motor Vehicle Law for the vehicle being driven or comparable license from the state in which the driver resides; and (3) have no convictions of Driving While Impaired (DWI) or any other impaired driving offense within the previous three years. (f) Each person in the vehicle shall be seated in the manufacturer's designated areas. No child shall ride in the load carrying area or floor of a vehicle. (g) Children shall not be left in a vehicle unattended by an adult. (h) Children shall be loaded and unloaded from curbside or in a safe, off-street area, out of the flow of traffic, so that they are protected from all traffic hazards. (i) Before children are transported, written permission from a parent shall be obtained that shall include when and where the child is to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. (j) Parents may give standing permission, valid for up to 12 months, for transport of children to and from the center not including off premise activities as described in Rule .1005 of this Section. (k) When children are transported, staff in each vehicle shall have a functioning cellular telephone or other functioning two-way voice communication device. Staff shall not use cellular telephones or other functioning two-way voice communication devices except in the case of an emergency and only when the vehicle is parked in a safe location. (l) For routine transport of children to and from the center, staff shall have a list of the children being transported. Staff members shall use this list to document attendance as children board the vehicle and as they depart the vehicle. A list of all children being transported shall also be available at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .1004 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS (a) When children aged two years and older are being transported, the staff/child ratios required for compliance with child care center rules as set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter shall apply. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. (b) When three or more children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio. (c) When less than three children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. 10A NCAC 09 .1005 OFF PREMISE ACTIVITIES IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Off premise activities refer to any activity that takes place away from a child care center’s licensed and approved space. Licensed and approved space includes "primary space" as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1401(a), outdoor space as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1402, single use rooms, or other administrative areas. (b) When children participate in off premise activities the following shall apply: (1) Children under the age of three shall not participate in off premise activities that involve children being transported in a motor vehicle. (2) When children are transported in a motor vehicle for off premise activities, the provisions in Rule .1003(c) through (i) and (k) of this Chapter shall apply. (3) Before staff members walk children off premises for play or outings, the center shall obtain written permission from the parent of each child to be included in such activities. (4) Parents may provide a written statement giving standing permission which may be valid for up to 12 months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis. (5) The center shall post a schedule of off premise activities in each participating classroom where it can be viewed by parents, and a copy shall be given to parents. The schedule shall be current and shall include the: (A) location of the activity; (B) purpose of the activity; (C) time the activity will take place; (D) date of the activity; and (E) name of the person(s) to be contacted in the event of an emergency. (6) Each time that children are taken off the premises, staff shall take a list of the children participating in the activity with them. Staff members shall use this list to check attendance when leaving the center, periodically when the children are involved in the activity, before leaving the activity to return to the child care center, and upon return to the center. A list of all children participating in the off premise activity shall also be available at the center. (c) The provisions of Subparagraphs (b)(1) and (5) of this Rule shall be waived to implement any child's Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or Individualized Education Program (IEP). Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 7870 Woodmere Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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 .0802 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2024 Number Present: 36 Completed Date: 2/6/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 440 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 05:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival, I was buzzed inside by the on-site administrator, Ms. Darlene Lemons. The center continued to maintain a four-star rated license and continued to meet enhanced space and ratios. The center continued approved to operate first and second shifts. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated August 2023 were used to document compliance. Thirty-six children were present, ranging in age from eight months up to Pre-K five years of age. There were not any school-age children present but twenty-two enrolled. Five operating/approved spaces, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and van were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored eating their lunch, napping on cots with linen, hand washing, diapering, and eating PM snacks. There were no multiples of three of the same toys offered in each classroom. There were books monitored in poor repair and removed from the environment during the walk through. The school age room/space #5 needed manipulatives, board games, math, and science materials. There was one evacuation crib monitored in space #1. Another crib should be purchased when six children are enrolled in the space. There was not any equipment for infant staff to use to get infants outside daily, weather permitting. A bye-bye buggy or strollers should be purchased and used daily unless active precipitation is falling from the sky. The posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized and did not specify what the center will or will not do to keep infant’s sleep environment safe. I also recommended purchasing a thermometer for infant staff to track the classroom temperature, since it is not permitted to exceed 75f. Bottles were labeled and dated. Documentation of safe sleep checks were monitored documented and current. Cribs were labeled and identified if the infant could roll over on their own. Seven children’s files were monitored for compliance. Seven children did not have annual parental permission to participate in activities outside of the fenced area, like monthly fire drills. The center administrator was asked what the implemented curriculum was used in the center. Ms. Lemons stated the center used The Creative Curriculum. While conducting the walk through of the center classrooms, I asked the teaching staff to show me their Teacher’s Guide Book, if quarterly assessments were completed and if each child had a portfolio. I could not see any charting of the children’s responses. The posted lesson plan stated the theme was love but did not see elements of love throughout the center materials or posted in the classrooms. It was recommended to inquire about training from CCRI with staff. Each classroom should have a Foundations book and Teaching Strategies Teacher’s Guide book. Staff and Training worksheets were provided upon request. There were three new staff hired since the last AC visit conducted in February of 2023. Three staff had printed medicals from their applicable doctor. Staff’s medicals must be on the DCDEE Staff Medical Report form. I asked for the operator to be added to the worksheet to help track her CBC qualification dates. One existing staff file was monitored for compliance and found to meet child care requirements. The center’s EPR plan and RTGF were monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not updated annually in the required electronic template provided by DCDEE. The EPR/RTGF was missing the center’s allergy list, medical plans attached to the child’s application, and an area map. A checklist was emailed during the visit. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored for compliance. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. The path of travel the children take from space #5 was monitored deteriorated with missing railing slats, warped wood with exposed hardware. The side white fence was hanging over with a fallen tree on it. The leaning fence caused the entire fence to lean forward causing an entrapment. Pictures were taken by the administrator. Required protective surfacing did not meet child care requirements of six inches in depth. There were exposed tree roots causing potential tripping hazards to staff and children. There were two gates in the back that would not close properly and were dragging across the ground. The center used one van monitored with current inspection, registration, Progressive insurance (expires 1/9/2025). Children’s emergency information was maintained in the binder, but a photograph of each child transported was not attached to the child’s emergency application. We discussed the fire extinguisher and first aid requirements. It was recommended to add the van driver’s emergency contact information to the transportation binder. The last sanitation inspection was conducted July 19, 2023, with six (6) demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on January 5, 2024. It was highly recommended to begin the annual inspection process 4-6 weeks prior to expiration. The center will be due to complete a three-year reassessment later than July 7, 2025. The last ERS were completed on March 18, 2022. The overall average ERS was 4.89. It was recommended to review any items scored under a 5.0 with staff during staff meetings and pursue any CCRI grant programs to help with child environments and staff training/support. Violation Number Comment Rule 468 When three-year-old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. There were not at least multiple of three of the same toys accessible to them. (spaces #3, 4 and 5). .0510(d)(1) 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not 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. Multiples of three toys per each type of toy were not present in spaces #1 and #2. .0510(e)(3) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The side back fence is in poor repair due to a fallen tree limb. The fence is bowed over and caused an entrapment. The side wooden ramp is in poor condition with rotten wooden railings and exposed hardware, missing slats on railing by 2/3 classroom. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There were several exposed tree roots in the back outdoor learning environment. One of the roots was monitored coming through the mulch. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 826 Gates to the fenced outdoor play area did not remain closed while children occupied the area. Two outdoor gates were monitored dragging on the ground. .0605(i) 832 There was no written emergency medical care (EMC) plan. The center EMC plan was not current. The posted plan listed Shawn Wilson who retired from the Health Department over two years ago. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 891 The safe sleep policy did not contain the required information. The center's posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized. The sample policy was posted but did not specify what is required in a SIDS policy. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a)(1-8) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Three new staff hires had medical reports on file but were not completed on the DCDDEE Staff Medical Report form. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 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. Children routinely transported did not have a photograph maintained in the vehicle used to transport them. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. Seven children were monitored without an annual off premises activities form on file. .1005(b)(4) 1794 A Four- or Five- Star program serving four-year-old children was not implementing an approved curriculum. The center administrator stated the Creative Curriculum was implemented. However, there was not one Teacher's Guide on site, no charting of children's responses, or no quarterly assessments. .2802(d) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go File was not current. Children's medical action plans were not attached or maintained with the child's emergency contact information. The center's allergy list and an area map were not monitored maintained in the RTGF. .0607(d)(10) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The center's EPR plan was not updated annually in the DCDEE electronic template. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There were not at least six inches in depth of mulch under and around the stationary play equipment or at the exit points. .0605(k)(1-4) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. Recommendations were made regarding transportation, outdoor environment, outdoor play for infants, CCRI grants, developmentally appropriate activities, health and safety training requirements, CPR/FA requirements. 2. It was recommended to develop quiet activity bags for older children who do not sleep during nap time hours. 3. It was recommended to develop and alter children’s daily outdoor times to reflect the season. The center’s daily schedule should reflect the change to the time-of-day children go outside, weather permitting. 4. It was recommended to work towards the staff obtaining training on the selected curriculum. 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0606 SAFE SLEEP PRACTICES (a) Each center licensed to care for infants aged 12 months or younger shall develop, adopt, and comply with a written safe sleep policy that: (1) specifies that caregivers shall place infants aged 12 months or younger on their backs for sleeping, unless: (A) for an infant aged six months or less, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional; or (B) for an infant older than six months, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional, or a parent or a legal guardian; (2) specifies no pillows, wedges or other positioners, pillow-like toys, blankets, toys, bumper pads, quilts, sheepskins, loose bedding, towels and washcloths, or other objects may be placed with a sleeping infant aged 12 months or younger; (3) specifies that children shall not be swaddled; (4) specifies that nothing shall be placed over the head or face of an infant aged 12 months or younger when the infant is laid down to sleep; (5) specifies that the temperature in the room where infants aged 12 months or younger are sleeping does not exceed 75° F; (6) specifies that caregivers shall visually check, in person, sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger at least every 15 minutes; (7) specifies how caregivers shall document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger; (8) specifies that pacifiers that attach to infant clothing shall not be used with sleeping infants; (9) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger sleep alone in a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; (10) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger are prohibited from sleeping in sitting devices, including car safety seats, strollers, swings, and infant carriers. Infants that fall asleep in sitting devices shall be moved to a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; and (11) specifies any other steps the center shall take to provide a safe sleep environment for infants aged 12 months or younger. (b) The center shall post a copy of its safe sleep policy about infant safe sleep practices in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers are able to view daily. (c) A copy of the center's safe sleep policy shall be given and explained to the parents of an infant aged 12 months or younger on or before the first day the infant attends the center. The parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the policy. The acknowledgement shall contain: (1) the infant's name; (2) the date the infant first attended the center; (3) the date the center's safe sleep policy was given and explained to the parent; and (4) the date the parent signed the acknowledgement. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (d) If a center amends its safe sleep policy, it shall give written notice of the amendment to the parents of all enrolled infants aged 12 months or younger at least 14 days before the amended policy is implemented. Each parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the amendment. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (e) A caregiver shall place a child age 12 months or younger on the child's back for sleeping, unless for a child age 6 months or younger, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional; or for a child older than 6 months, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional or parent. Waivers shall include the following: (1) the infant's name and birth date; (2) the signature and date of the infant's health care professional or parent; (3) if a wedge is needed specify why it is needed and how it is to be used; and (4) the infant's authorized sleep positions. The center shall retain the waiver in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (f) For each infant with a waiver on file at the center as specified in Paragraph (e) of this Rule, a notice shall be posted for quick reference near the infant's crib, bassinet, play pen, cot or mat that shall include: (1) the infant's name; (2) the infant's authorized sleep position; and (3) the location of the signed waiver. No confidential medical information, including an infant's medical diagnosis, shall be shown on the notice. (g) Documents that verify staff member's compliance with visual checks on infants shall be maintained for a minimum of one month. (h) A bed, crib, or cot, equipped with a firm waterproof mattress at least four inches thick and a fitted sheet shall be provided for each child who remains in the center after midnight. The top of bunk beds shall be used by school-age children only. (i) A caregiver shall not place anything over the face of a child during rest time. 5. SECTION .1000 - TRANSPORTATION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .1001 SEAT AND CHILD SAFETY SEATS IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) When children enrolled in a child care center are being transported, each adult and child shall be restrained with an individual seat belt or child safety seat appropriate to the child’s age or weight in accordance with G.S. 20-135.2A located at http://www.buckleupnc.org/occupant-restraint-laws/seat-belt-law-summary/. (b) Only one person shall occupy each seat belt or child safety seat. 10A NCAC 09 .1002 SAFE VEHICLES (a) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall be free of hazards such as, but not limited to, torn upholstery that allows children to remove the interior padding, broken windows, holes in the floor or roof, or tire treads of less than 2/32 of an inch. (b) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. (c) Vehicles shall be insured for liability as required by State laws governing transportation of passengers pursuant to G.S. 20-279.21. (d) Vehicles used to transport children in snowy, icy, and other hazardous weather conditions must be equipped with snow tires or chains as appropriate. 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES (a) The driver or other staff member in the vehicle shall ensure that all children are transferred to an individual who is indicated on the child's application as specified in Rule .0801(a)(7) of this Chapter or as authorized by the parent. (b) Each center shall establish procedures for pick-up and delivery of children to ensure children are protected from danger and not exposed to risk of harm. These procedures shall be communicated to parents, and a copy shall be posted in the center where they can be seen by the parents. (c) A First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be located in each vehicle used to transport children. The First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be mounted or secured if kept in the passenger compartment. (d) 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 by Rule .0802(c) of this Chapter, shall be in the vehicle. (e) The driver shall: (1) be 21 years old or a licensed bus driver; (2) have a valid driver's license of the type required under North Carolina Motor Vehicle Law for the vehicle being driven or comparable license from the state in which the driver resides; and (3) have no convictions of Driving While Impaired (DWI) or any other impaired driving offense within the previous three years. (f) Each person in the vehicle shall be seated in the manufacturer's designated areas. No child shall ride in the load carrying area or floor of a vehicle. (g) Children shall not be left in a vehicle unattended by an adult. (h) Children shall be loaded and unloaded from curbside or in a safe, off-street area, out of the flow of traffic, so that they are protected from all traffic hazards. (i) Before children are transported, written permission from a parent shall be obtained that shall include when and where the child is to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. (j) Parents may give standing permission, valid for up to 12 months, for transport of children to and from the center not including off premise activities as described in Rule .1005 of this Section. (k) When children are transported, staff in each vehicle shall have a functioning cellular telephone or other functioning two-way voice communication device. Staff shall not use cellular telephones or other functioning two-way voice communication devices except in the case of an emergency and only when the vehicle is parked in a safe location. (l) For routine transport of children to and from the center, staff shall have a list of the children being transported. Staff members shall use this list to document attendance as children board the vehicle and as they depart the vehicle. A list of all children being transported shall also be available at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .1004 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS (a) When children aged two years and older are being transported, the staff/child ratios required for compliance with child care center rules as set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter shall apply. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. (b) When three or more children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio. (c) When less than three children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. 10A NCAC 09 .1005 OFF PREMISE ACTIVITIES IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Off premise activities refer to any activity that takes place away from a child care center’s licensed and approved space. Licensed and approved space includes "primary space" as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1401(a), outdoor space as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1402, single use rooms, or other administrative areas. (b) When children participate in off premise activities the following shall apply: (1) Children under the age of three shall not participate in off premise activities that involve children being transported in a motor vehicle. (2) When children are transported in a motor vehicle for off premise activities, the provisions in Rule .1003(c) through (i) and (k) of this Chapter shall apply. (3) Before staff members walk children off premises for play or outings, the center shall obtain written permission from the parent of each child to be included in such activities. (4) Parents may provide a written statement giving standing permission which may be valid for up to 12 months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis. (5) The center shall post a schedule of off premise activities in each participating classroom where it can be viewed by parents, and a copy shall be given to parents. The schedule shall be current and shall include the: (A) location of the activity; (B) purpose of the activity; (C) time the activity will take place; (D) date of the activity; and (E) name of the person(s) to be contacted in the event of an emergency. (6) Each time that children are taken off the premises, staff shall take a list of the children participating in the activity with them. Staff members shall use this list to check attendance when leaving the center, periodically when the children are involved in the activity, before leaving the activity to return to the child care center, and upon return to the center. A list of all children participating in the off premise activity shall also be available at the center. (c) The provisions of Subparagraphs (b)(1) and (5) of this Rule shall be waived to implement any child's Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or Individualized Education Program (IEP). Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 7870 Woodmere Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2024 Number Present: 36 Completed Date: 2/6/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 440 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 05:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival, I was buzzed inside by the on-site administrator, Ms. Darlene Lemons. The center continued to maintain a four-star rated license and continued to meet enhanced space and ratios. The center continued approved to operate first and second shifts. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated August 2023 were used to document compliance. Thirty-six children were present, ranging in age from eight months up to Pre-K five years of age. There were not any school-age children present but twenty-two enrolled. Five operating/approved spaces, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and van were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored eating their lunch, napping on cots with linen, hand washing, diapering, and eating PM snacks. There were no multiples of three of the same toys offered in each classroom. There were books monitored in poor repair and removed from the environment during the walk through. The school age room/space #5 needed manipulatives, board games, math, and science materials. There was one evacuation crib monitored in space #1. Another crib should be purchased when six children are enrolled in the space. There was not any equipment for infant staff to use to get infants outside daily, weather permitting. A bye-bye buggy or strollers should be purchased and used daily unless active precipitation is falling from the sky. The posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized and did not specify what the center will or will not do to keep infant’s sleep environment safe. I also recommended purchasing a thermometer for infant staff to track the classroom temperature, since it is not permitted to exceed 75f. Bottles were labeled and dated. Documentation of safe sleep checks were monitored documented and current. Cribs were labeled and identified if the infant could roll over on their own. Seven children’s files were monitored for compliance. Seven children did not have annual parental permission to participate in activities outside of the fenced area, like monthly fire drills. The center administrator was asked what the implemented curriculum was used in the center. Ms. Lemons stated the center used The Creative Curriculum. While conducting the walk through of the center classrooms, I asked the teaching staff to show me their Teacher’s Guide Book, if quarterly assessments were completed and if each child had a portfolio. I could not see any charting of the children’s responses. The posted lesson plan stated the theme was love but did not see elements of love throughout the center materials or posted in the classrooms. It was recommended to inquire about training from CCRI with staff. Each classroom should have a Foundations book and Teaching Strategies Teacher’s Guide book. Staff and Training worksheets were provided upon request. There were three new staff hired since the last AC visit conducted in February of 2023. Three staff had printed medicals from their applicable doctor. Staff’s medicals must be on the DCDEE Staff Medical Report form. I asked for the operator to be added to the worksheet to help track her CBC qualification dates. One existing staff file was monitored for compliance and found to meet child care requirements. The center’s EPR plan and RTGF were monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not updated annually in the required electronic template provided by DCDEE. The EPR/RTGF was missing the center’s allergy list, medical plans attached to the child’s application, and an area map. A checklist was emailed during the visit. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored for compliance. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. The path of travel the children take from space #5 was monitored deteriorated with missing railing slats, warped wood with exposed hardware. The side white fence was hanging over with a fallen tree on it. The leaning fence caused the entire fence to lean forward causing an entrapment. Pictures were taken by the administrator. Required protective surfacing did not meet child care requirements of six inches in depth. There were exposed tree roots causing potential tripping hazards to staff and children. There were two gates in the back that would not close properly and were dragging across the ground. The center used one van monitored with current inspection, registration, Progressive insurance (expires 1/9/2025). Children’s emergency information was maintained in the binder, but a photograph of each child transported was not attached to the child’s emergency application. We discussed the fire extinguisher and first aid requirements. It was recommended to add the van driver’s emergency contact information to the transportation binder. The last sanitation inspection was conducted July 19, 2023, with six (6) demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on January 5, 2024. It was highly recommended to begin the annual inspection process 4-6 weeks prior to expiration. The center will be due to complete a three-year reassessment later than July 7, 2025. The last ERS were completed on March 18, 2022. The overall average ERS was 4.89. It was recommended to review any items scored under a 5.0 with staff during staff meetings and pursue any CCRI grant programs to help with child environments and staff training/support. Violation Number Comment Rule 468 When three-year-old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. There were not at least multiple of three of the same toys accessible to them. (spaces #3, 4 and 5). .0510(d)(1) 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not 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. Multiples of three toys per each type of toy were not present in spaces #1 and #2. .0510(e)(3) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The side back fence is in poor repair due to a fallen tree limb. The fence is bowed over and caused an entrapment. The side wooden ramp is in poor condition with rotten wooden railings and exposed hardware, missing slats on railing by 2/3 classroom. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There were several exposed tree roots in the back outdoor learning environment. One of the roots was monitored coming through the mulch. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 826 Gates to the fenced outdoor play area did not remain closed while children occupied the area. Two outdoor gates were monitored dragging on the ground. .0605(i) 832 There was no written emergency medical care (EMC) plan. The center EMC plan was not current. The posted plan listed Shawn Wilson who retired from the Health Department over two years ago. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 891 The safe sleep policy did not contain the required information. The center's posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized. The sample policy was posted but did not specify what is required in a SIDS policy. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a)(1-8) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Three new staff hires had medical reports on file but were not completed on the DCDDEE Staff Medical Report form. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 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. Children routinely transported did not have a photograph maintained in the vehicle used to transport them. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. Seven children were monitored without an annual off premises activities form on file. .1005(b)(4) 1794 A Four- or Five- Star program serving four-year-old children was not implementing an approved curriculum. The center administrator stated the Creative Curriculum was implemented. However, there was not one Teacher's Guide on site, no charting of children's responses, or no quarterly assessments. .2802(d) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go File was not current. Children's medical action plans were not attached or maintained with the child's emergency contact information. The center's allergy list and an area map were not monitored maintained in the RTGF. .0607(d)(10) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The center's EPR plan was not updated annually in the DCDEE electronic template. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There were not at least six inches in depth of mulch under and around the stationary play equipment or at the exit points. .0605(k)(1-4) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. Recommendations were made regarding transportation, outdoor environment, outdoor play for infants, CCRI grants, developmentally appropriate activities, health and safety training requirements, CPR/FA requirements. 2. It was recommended to develop quiet activity bags for older children who do not sleep during nap time hours. 3. It was recommended to develop and alter children’s daily outdoor times to reflect the season. The center’s daily schedule should reflect the change to the time-of-day children go outside, weather permitting. 4. It was recommended to work towards the staff obtaining training on the selected curriculum. 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0606 SAFE SLEEP PRACTICES (a) Each center licensed to care for infants aged 12 months or younger shall develop, adopt, and comply with a written safe sleep policy that: (1) specifies that caregivers shall place infants aged 12 months or younger on their backs for sleeping, unless: (A) for an infant aged six months or less, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional; or (B) for an infant older than six months, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional, or a parent or a legal guardian; (2) specifies no pillows, wedges or other positioners, pillow-like toys, blankets, toys, bumper pads, quilts, sheepskins, loose bedding, towels and washcloths, or other objects may be placed with a sleeping infant aged 12 months or younger; (3) specifies that children shall not be swaddled; (4) specifies that nothing shall be placed over the head or face of an infant aged 12 months or younger when the infant is laid down to sleep; (5) specifies that the temperature in the room where infants aged 12 months or younger are sleeping does not exceed 75° F; (6) specifies that caregivers shall visually check, in person, sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger at least every 15 minutes; (7) specifies how caregivers shall document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger; (8) specifies that pacifiers that attach to infant clothing shall not be used with sleeping infants; (9) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger sleep alone in a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; (10) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger are prohibited from sleeping in sitting devices, including car safety seats, strollers, swings, and infant carriers. Infants that fall asleep in sitting devices shall be moved to a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; and (11) specifies any other steps the center shall take to provide a safe sleep environment for infants aged 12 months or younger. (b) The center shall post a copy of its safe sleep policy about infant safe sleep practices in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers are able to view daily. (c) A copy of the center's safe sleep policy shall be given and explained to the parents of an infant aged 12 months or younger on or before the first day the infant attends the center. The parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the policy. The acknowledgement shall contain: (1) the infant's name; (2) the date the infant first attended the center; (3) the date the center's safe sleep policy was given and explained to the parent; and (4) the date the parent signed the acknowledgement. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (d) If a center amends its safe sleep policy, it shall give written notice of the amendment to the parents of all enrolled infants aged 12 months or younger at least 14 days before the amended policy is implemented. Each parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the amendment. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (e) A caregiver shall place a child age 12 months or younger on the child's back for sleeping, unless for a child age 6 months or younger, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional; or for a child older than 6 months, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional or parent. Waivers shall include the following: (1) the infant's name and birth date; (2) the signature and date of the infant's health care professional or parent; (3) if a wedge is needed specify why it is needed and how it is to be used; and (4) the infant's authorized sleep positions. The center shall retain the waiver in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (f) For each infant with a waiver on file at the center as specified in Paragraph (e) of this Rule, a notice shall be posted for quick reference near the infant's crib, bassinet, play pen, cot or mat that shall include: (1) the infant's name; (2) the infant's authorized sleep position; and (3) the location of the signed waiver. No confidential medical information, including an infant's medical diagnosis, shall be shown on the notice. (g) Documents that verify staff member's compliance with visual checks on infants shall be maintained for a minimum of one month. (h) A bed, crib, or cot, equipped with a firm waterproof mattress at least four inches thick and a fitted sheet shall be provided for each child who remains in the center after midnight. The top of bunk beds shall be used by school-age children only. (i) A caregiver shall not place anything over the face of a child during rest time. 5. SECTION .1000 - TRANSPORTATION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .1001 SEAT AND CHILD SAFETY SEATS IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) When children enrolled in a child care center are being transported, each adult and child shall be restrained with an individual seat belt or child safety seat appropriate to the child’s age or weight in accordance with G.S. 20-135.2A located at http://www.buckleupnc.org/occupant-restraint-laws/seat-belt-law-summary/. (b) Only one person shall occupy each seat belt or child safety seat. 10A NCAC 09 .1002 SAFE VEHICLES (a) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall be free of hazards such as, but not limited to, torn upholstery that allows children to remove the interior padding, broken windows, holes in the floor or roof, or tire treads of less than 2/32 of an inch. (b) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. (c) Vehicles shall be insured for liability as required by State laws governing transportation of passengers pursuant to G.S. 20-279.21. (d) Vehicles used to transport children in snowy, icy, and other hazardous weather conditions must be equipped with snow tires or chains as appropriate. 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES (a) The driver or other staff member in the vehicle shall ensure that all children are transferred to an individual who is indicated on the child's application as specified in Rule .0801(a)(7) of this Chapter or as authorized by the parent. (b) Each center shall establish procedures for pick-up and delivery of children to ensure children are protected from danger and not exposed to risk of harm. These procedures shall be communicated to parents, and a copy shall be posted in the center where they can be seen by the parents. (c) A First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be located in each vehicle used to transport children. The First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be mounted or secured if kept in the passenger compartment. (d) 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 by Rule .0802(c) of this Chapter, shall be in the vehicle. (e) The driver shall: (1) be 21 years old or a licensed bus driver; (2) have a valid driver's license of the type required under North Carolina Motor Vehicle Law for the vehicle being driven or comparable license from the state in which the driver resides; and (3) have no convictions of Driving While Impaired (DWI) or any other impaired driving offense within the previous three years. (f) Each person in the vehicle shall be seated in the manufacturer's designated areas. No child shall ride in the load carrying area or floor of a vehicle. (g) Children shall not be left in a vehicle unattended by an adult. (h) Children shall be loaded and unloaded from curbside or in a safe, off-street area, out of the flow of traffic, so that they are protected from all traffic hazards. (i) Before children are transported, written permission from a parent shall be obtained that shall include when and where the child is to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. (j) Parents may give standing permission, valid for up to 12 months, for transport of children to and from the center not including off premise activities as described in Rule .1005 of this Section. (k) When children are transported, staff in each vehicle shall have a functioning cellular telephone or other functioning two-way voice communication device. Staff shall not use cellular telephones or other functioning two-way voice communication devices except in the case of an emergency and only when the vehicle is parked in a safe location. (l) For routine transport of children to and from the center, staff shall have a list of the children being transported. Staff members shall use this list to document attendance as children board the vehicle and as they depart the vehicle. A list of all children being transported shall also be available at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .1004 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS (a) When children aged two years and older are being transported, the staff/child ratios required for compliance with child care center rules as set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter shall apply. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. (b) When three or more children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio. (c) When less than three children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. 10A NCAC 09 .1005 OFF PREMISE ACTIVITIES IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Off premise activities refer to any activity that takes place away from a child care center’s licensed and approved space. Licensed and approved space includes "primary space" as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1401(a), outdoor space as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1402, single use rooms, or other administrative areas. (b) When children participate in off premise activities the following shall apply: (1) Children under the age of three shall not participate in off premise activities that involve children being transported in a motor vehicle. (2) When children are transported in a motor vehicle for off premise activities, the provisions in Rule .1003(c) through (i) and (k) of this Chapter shall apply. (3) Before staff members walk children off premises for play or outings, the center shall obtain written permission from the parent of each child to be included in such activities. (4) Parents may provide a written statement giving standing permission which may be valid for up to 12 months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis. (5) The center shall post a schedule of off premise activities in each participating classroom where it can be viewed by parents, and a copy shall be given to parents. The schedule shall be current and shall include the: (A) location of the activity; (B) purpose of the activity; (C) time the activity will take place; (D) date of the activity; and (E) name of the person(s) to be contacted in the event of an emergency. (6) Each time that children are taken off the premises, staff shall take a list of the children participating in the activity with them. Staff members shall use this list to check attendance when leaving the center, periodically when the children are involved in the activity, before leaving the activity to return to the child care center, and upon return to the center. A list of all children participating in the off premise activity shall also be available at the center. (c) The provisions of Subparagraphs (b)(1) and (5) of this Rule shall be waived to implement any child's Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or Individualized Education Program (IEP). Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 7870 Woodmere Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2024 Number Present: 36 Completed Date: 2/6/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 440 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 05:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival, I was buzzed inside by the on-site administrator, Ms. Darlene Lemons. The center continued to maintain a four-star rated license and continued to meet enhanced space and ratios. The center continued approved to operate first and second shifts. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated August 2023 were used to document compliance. Thirty-six children were present, ranging in age from eight months up to Pre-K five years of age. There were not any school-age children present but twenty-two enrolled. Five operating/approved spaces, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and van were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored eating their lunch, napping on cots with linen, hand washing, diapering, and eating PM snacks. There were no multiples of three of the same toys offered in each classroom. There were books monitored in poor repair and removed from the environment during the walk through. The school age room/space #5 needed manipulatives, board games, math, and science materials. There was one evacuation crib monitored in space #1. Another crib should be purchased when six children are enrolled in the space. There was not any equipment for infant staff to use to get infants outside daily, weather permitting. A bye-bye buggy or strollers should be purchased and used daily unless active precipitation is falling from the sky. The posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized and did not specify what the center will or will not do to keep infant’s sleep environment safe. I also recommended purchasing a thermometer for infant staff to track the classroom temperature, since it is not permitted to exceed 75f. Bottles were labeled and dated. Documentation of safe sleep checks were monitored documented and current. Cribs were labeled and identified if the infant could roll over on their own. Seven children’s files were monitored for compliance. Seven children did not have annual parental permission to participate in activities outside of the fenced area, like monthly fire drills. The center administrator was asked what the implemented curriculum was used in the center. Ms. Lemons stated the center used The Creative Curriculum. While conducting the walk through of the center classrooms, I asked the teaching staff to show me their Teacher’s Guide Book, if quarterly assessments were completed and if each child had a portfolio. I could not see any charting of the children’s responses. The posted lesson plan stated the theme was love but did not see elements of love throughout the center materials or posted in the classrooms. It was recommended to inquire about training from CCRI with staff. Each classroom should have a Foundations book and Teaching Strategies Teacher’s Guide book. Staff and Training worksheets were provided upon request. There were three new staff hired since the last AC visit conducted in February of 2023. Three staff had printed medicals from their applicable doctor. Staff’s medicals must be on the DCDEE Staff Medical Report form. I asked for the operator to be added to the worksheet to help track her CBC qualification dates. One existing staff file was monitored for compliance and found to meet child care requirements. The center’s EPR plan and RTGF were monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not updated annually in the required electronic template provided by DCDEE. The EPR/RTGF was missing the center’s allergy list, medical plans attached to the child’s application, and an area map. A checklist was emailed during the visit. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored for compliance. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. The path of travel the children take from space #5 was monitored deteriorated with missing railing slats, warped wood with exposed hardware. The side white fence was hanging over with a fallen tree on it. The leaning fence caused the entire fence to lean forward causing an entrapment. Pictures were taken by the administrator. Required protective surfacing did not meet child care requirements of six inches in depth. There were exposed tree roots causing potential tripping hazards to staff and children. There were two gates in the back that would not close properly and were dragging across the ground. The center used one van monitored with current inspection, registration, Progressive insurance (expires 1/9/2025). Children’s emergency information was maintained in the binder, but a photograph of each child transported was not attached to the child’s emergency application. We discussed the fire extinguisher and first aid requirements. It was recommended to add the van driver’s emergency contact information to the transportation binder. The last sanitation inspection was conducted July 19, 2023, with six (6) demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on January 5, 2024. It was highly recommended to begin the annual inspection process 4-6 weeks prior to expiration. The center will be due to complete a three-year reassessment later than July 7, 2025. The last ERS were completed on March 18, 2022. The overall average ERS was 4.89. It was recommended to review any items scored under a 5.0 with staff during staff meetings and pursue any CCRI grant programs to help with child environments and staff training/support. Violation Number Comment Rule 468 When three-year-old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. There were not at least multiple of three of the same toys accessible to them. (spaces #3, 4 and 5). .0510(d)(1) 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not 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. Multiples of three toys per each type of toy were not present in spaces #1 and #2. .0510(e)(3) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The side back fence is in poor repair due to a fallen tree limb. The fence is bowed over and caused an entrapment. The side wooden ramp is in poor condition with rotten wooden railings and exposed hardware, missing slats on railing by 2/3 classroom. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There were several exposed tree roots in the back outdoor learning environment. One of the roots was monitored coming through the mulch. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 826 Gates to the fenced outdoor play area did not remain closed while children occupied the area. Two outdoor gates were monitored dragging on the ground. .0605(i) 832 There was no written emergency medical care (EMC) plan. The center EMC plan was not current. The posted plan listed Shawn Wilson who retired from the Health Department over two years ago. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 891 The safe sleep policy did not contain the required information. The center's posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized. The sample policy was posted but did not specify what is required in a SIDS policy. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a)(1-8) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Three new staff hires had medical reports on file but were not completed on the DCDDEE Staff Medical Report form. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 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. Children routinely transported did not have a photograph maintained in the vehicle used to transport them. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. Seven children were monitored without an annual off premises activities form on file. .1005(b)(4) 1794 A Four- or Five- Star program serving four-year-old children was not implementing an approved curriculum. The center administrator stated the Creative Curriculum was implemented. However, there was not one Teacher's Guide on site, no charting of children's responses, or no quarterly assessments. .2802(d) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go File was not current. Children's medical action plans were not attached or maintained with the child's emergency contact information. The center's allergy list and an area map were not monitored maintained in the RTGF. .0607(d)(10) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The center's EPR plan was not updated annually in the DCDEE electronic template. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There were not at least six inches in depth of mulch under and around the stationary play equipment or at the exit points. .0605(k)(1-4) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. Recommendations were made regarding transportation, outdoor environment, outdoor play for infants, CCRI grants, developmentally appropriate activities, health and safety training requirements, CPR/FA requirements. 2. It was recommended to develop quiet activity bags for older children who do not sleep during nap time hours. 3. It was recommended to develop and alter children’s daily outdoor times to reflect the season. The center’s daily schedule should reflect the change to the time-of-day children go outside, weather permitting. 4. It was recommended to work towards the staff obtaining training on the selected curriculum. 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0606 SAFE SLEEP PRACTICES (a) Each center licensed to care for infants aged 12 months or younger shall develop, adopt, and comply with a written safe sleep policy that: (1) specifies that caregivers shall place infants aged 12 months or younger on their backs for sleeping, unless: (A) for an infant aged six months or less, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional; or (B) for an infant older than six months, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional, or a parent or a legal guardian; (2) specifies no pillows, wedges or other positioners, pillow-like toys, blankets, toys, bumper pads, quilts, sheepskins, loose bedding, towels and washcloths, or other objects may be placed with a sleeping infant aged 12 months or younger; (3) specifies that children shall not be swaddled; (4) specifies that nothing shall be placed over the head or face of an infant aged 12 months or younger when the infant is laid down to sleep; (5) specifies that the temperature in the room where infants aged 12 months or younger are sleeping does not exceed 75° F; (6) specifies that caregivers shall visually check, in person, sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger at least every 15 minutes; (7) specifies how caregivers shall document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger; (8) specifies that pacifiers that attach to infant clothing shall not be used with sleeping infants; (9) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger sleep alone in a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; (10) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger are prohibited from sleeping in sitting devices, including car safety seats, strollers, swings, and infant carriers. Infants that fall asleep in sitting devices shall be moved to a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; and (11) specifies any other steps the center shall take to provide a safe sleep environment for infants aged 12 months or younger. (b) The center shall post a copy of its safe sleep policy about infant safe sleep practices in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers are able to view daily. (c) A copy of the center's safe sleep policy shall be given and explained to the parents of an infant aged 12 months or younger on or before the first day the infant attends the center. The parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the policy. The acknowledgement shall contain: (1) the infant's name; (2) the date the infant first attended the center; (3) the date the center's safe sleep policy was given and explained to the parent; and (4) the date the parent signed the acknowledgement. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (d) If a center amends its safe sleep policy, it shall give written notice of the amendment to the parents of all enrolled infants aged 12 months or younger at least 14 days before the amended policy is implemented. Each parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the amendment. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (e) A caregiver shall place a child age 12 months or younger on the child's back for sleeping, unless for a child age 6 months or younger, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional; or for a child older than 6 months, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional or parent. Waivers shall include the following: (1) the infant's name and birth date; (2) the signature and date of the infant's health care professional or parent; (3) if a wedge is needed specify why it is needed and how it is to be used; and (4) the infant's authorized sleep positions. The center shall retain the waiver in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (f) For each infant with a waiver on file at the center as specified in Paragraph (e) of this Rule, a notice shall be posted for quick reference near the infant's crib, bassinet, play pen, cot or mat that shall include: (1) the infant's name; (2) the infant's authorized sleep position; and (3) the location of the signed waiver. No confidential medical information, including an infant's medical diagnosis, shall be shown on the notice. (g) Documents that verify staff member's compliance with visual checks on infants shall be maintained for a minimum of one month. (h) A bed, crib, or cot, equipped with a firm waterproof mattress at least four inches thick and a fitted sheet shall be provided for each child who remains in the center after midnight. The top of bunk beds shall be used by school-age children only. (i) A caregiver shall not place anything over the face of a child during rest time. 5. SECTION .1000 - TRANSPORTATION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .1001 SEAT AND CHILD SAFETY SEATS IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) When children enrolled in a child care center are being transported, each adult and child shall be restrained with an individual seat belt or child safety seat appropriate to the child’s age or weight in accordance with G.S. 20-135.2A located at http://www.buckleupnc.org/occupant-restraint-laws/seat-belt-law-summary/. (b) Only one person shall occupy each seat belt or child safety seat. 10A NCAC 09 .1002 SAFE VEHICLES (a) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall be free of hazards such as, but not limited to, torn upholstery that allows children to remove the interior padding, broken windows, holes in the floor or roof, or tire treads of less than 2/32 of an inch. (b) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. (c) Vehicles shall be insured for liability as required by State laws governing transportation of passengers pursuant to G.S. 20-279.21. (d) Vehicles used to transport children in snowy, icy, and other hazardous weather conditions must be equipped with snow tires or chains as appropriate. 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES (a) The driver or other staff member in the vehicle shall ensure that all children are transferred to an individual who is indicated on the child's application as specified in Rule .0801(a)(7) of this Chapter or as authorized by the parent. (b) Each center shall establish procedures for pick-up and delivery of children to ensure children are protected from danger and not exposed to risk of harm. These procedures shall be communicated to parents, and a copy shall be posted in the center where they can be seen by the parents. (c) A First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be located in each vehicle used to transport children. The First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be mounted or secured if kept in the passenger compartment. (d) 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 by Rule .0802(c) of this Chapter, shall be in the vehicle. (e) The driver shall: (1) be 21 years old or a licensed bus driver; (2) have a valid driver's license of the type required under North Carolina Motor Vehicle Law for the vehicle being driven or comparable license from the state in which the driver resides; and (3) have no convictions of Driving While Impaired (DWI) or any other impaired driving offense within the previous three years. (f) Each person in the vehicle shall be seated in the manufacturer's designated areas. No child shall ride in the load carrying area or floor of a vehicle. (g) Children shall not be left in a vehicle unattended by an adult. (h) Children shall be loaded and unloaded from curbside or in a safe, off-street area, out of the flow of traffic, so that they are protected from all traffic hazards. (i) Before children are transported, written permission from a parent shall be obtained that shall include when and where the child is to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. (j) Parents may give standing permission, valid for up to 12 months, for transport of children to and from the center not including off premise activities as described in Rule .1005 of this Section. (k) When children are transported, staff in each vehicle shall have a functioning cellular telephone or other functioning two-way voice communication device. Staff shall not use cellular telephones or other functioning two-way voice communication devices except in the case of an emergency and only when the vehicle is parked in a safe location. (l) For routine transport of children to and from the center, staff shall have a list of the children being transported. Staff members shall use this list to document attendance as children board the vehicle and as they depart the vehicle. A list of all children being transported shall also be available at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .1004 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS (a) When children aged two years and older are being transported, the staff/child ratios required for compliance with child care center rules as set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter shall apply. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. (b) When three or more children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio. (c) When less than three children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. 10A NCAC 09 .1005 OFF PREMISE ACTIVITIES IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Off premise activities refer to any activity that takes place away from a child care center’s licensed and approved space. Licensed and approved space includes "primary space" as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1401(a), outdoor space as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1402, single use rooms, or other administrative areas. (b) When children participate in off premise activities the following shall apply: (1) Children under the age of three shall not participate in off premise activities that involve children being transported in a motor vehicle. (2) When children are transported in a motor vehicle for off premise activities, the provisions in Rule .1003(c) through (i) and (k) of this Chapter shall apply. (3) Before staff members walk children off premises for play or outings, the center shall obtain written permission from the parent of each child to be included in such activities. (4) Parents may provide a written statement giving standing permission which may be valid for up to 12 months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis. (5) The center shall post a schedule of off premise activities in each participating classroom where it can be viewed by parents, and a copy shall be given to parents. The schedule shall be current and shall include the: (A) location of the activity; (B) purpose of the activity; (C) time the activity will take place; (D) date of the activity; and (E) name of the person(s) to be contacted in the event of an emergency. (6) Each time that children are taken off the premises, staff shall take a list of the children participating in the activity with them. Staff members shall use this list to check attendance when leaving the center, periodically when the children are involved in the activity, before leaving the activity to return to the child care center, and upon return to the center. A list of all children participating in the off premise activity shall also be available at the center. (c) The provisions of Subparagraphs (b)(1) and (5) of this Rule shall be waived to implement any child's Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or Individualized Education Program (IEP). Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 7870 Woodmere Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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 .1001 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2024 Number Present: 36 Completed Date: 2/6/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 440 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 05:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival, I was buzzed inside by the on-site administrator, Ms. Darlene Lemons. The center continued to maintain a four-star rated license and continued to meet enhanced space and ratios. The center continued approved to operate first and second shifts. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated August 2023 were used to document compliance. Thirty-six children were present, ranging in age from eight months up to Pre-K five years of age. There were not any school-age children present but twenty-two enrolled. Five operating/approved spaces, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and van were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored eating their lunch, napping on cots with linen, hand washing, diapering, and eating PM snacks. There were no multiples of three of the same toys offered in each classroom. There were books monitored in poor repair and removed from the environment during the walk through. The school age room/space #5 needed manipulatives, board games, math, and science materials. There was one evacuation crib monitored in space #1. Another crib should be purchased when six children are enrolled in the space. There was not any equipment for infant staff to use to get infants outside daily, weather permitting. A bye-bye buggy or strollers should be purchased and used daily unless active precipitation is falling from the sky. The posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized and did not specify what the center will or will not do to keep infant’s sleep environment safe. I also recommended purchasing a thermometer for infant staff to track the classroom temperature, since it is not permitted to exceed 75f. Bottles were labeled and dated. Documentation of safe sleep checks were monitored documented and current. Cribs were labeled and identified if the infant could roll over on their own. Seven children’s files were monitored for compliance. Seven children did not have annual parental permission to participate in activities outside of the fenced area, like monthly fire drills. The center administrator was asked what the implemented curriculum was used in the center. Ms. Lemons stated the center used The Creative Curriculum. While conducting the walk through of the center classrooms, I asked the teaching staff to show me their Teacher’s Guide Book, if quarterly assessments were completed and if each child had a portfolio. I could not see any charting of the children’s responses. The posted lesson plan stated the theme was love but did not see elements of love throughout the center materials or posted in the classrooms. It was recommended to inquire about training from CCRI with staff. Each classroom should have a Foundations book and Teaching Strategies Teacher’s Guide book. Staff and Training worksheets were provided upon request. There were three new staff hired since the last AC visit conducted in February of 2023. Three staff had printed medicals from their applicable doctor. Staff’s medicals must be on the DCDEE Staff Medical Report form. I asked for the operator to be added to the worksheet to help track her CBC qualification dates. One existing staff file was monitored for compliance and found to meet child care requirements. The center’s EPR plan and RTGF were monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not updated annually in the required electronic template provided by DCDEE. The EPR/RTGF was missing the center’s allergy list, medical plans attached to the child’s application, and an area map. A checklist was emailed during the visit. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored for compliance. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. The path of travel the children take from space #5 was monitored deteriorated with missing railing slats, warped wood with exposed hardware. The side white fence was hanging over with a fallen tree on it. The leaning fence caused the entire fence to lean forward causing an entrapment. Pictures were taken by the administrator. Required protective surfacing did not meet child care requirements of six inches in depth. There were exposed tree roots causing potential tripping hazards to staff and children. There were two gates in the back that would not close properly and were dragging across the ground. The center used one van monitored with current inspection, registration, Progressive insurance (expires 1/9/2025). Children’s emergency information was maintained in the binder, but a photograph of each child transported was not attached to the child’s emergency application. We discussed the fire extinguisher and first aid requirements. It was recommended to add the van driver’s emergency contact information to the transportation binder. The last sanitation inspection was conducted July 19, 2023, with six (6) demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on January 5, 2024. It was highly recommended to begin the annual inspection process 4-6 weeks prior to expiration. The center will be due to complete a three-year reassessment later than July 7, 2025. The last ERS were completed on March 18, 2022. The overall average ERS was 4.89. It was recommended to review any items scored under a 5.0 with staff during staff meetings and pursue any CCRI grant programs to help with child environments and staff training/support. Violation Number Comment Rule 468 When three-year-old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. There were not at least multiple of three of the same toys accessible to them. (spaces #3, 4 and 5). .0510(d)(1) 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not 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. Multiples of three toys per each type of toy were not present in spaces #1 and #2. .0510(e)(3) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The side back fence is in poor repair due to a fallen tree limb. The fence is bowed over and caused an entrapment. The side wooden ramp is in poor condition with rotten wooden railings and exposed hardware, missing slats on railing by 2/3 classroom. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There were several exposed tree roots in the back outdoor learning environment. One of the roots was monitored coming through the mulch. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 826 Gates to the fenced outdoor play area did not remain closed while children occupied the area. Two outdoor gates were monitored dragging on the ground. .0605(i) 832 There was no written emergency medical care (EMC) plan. The center EMC plan was not current. The posted plan listed Shawn Wilson who retired from the Health Department over two years ago. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 891 The safe sleep policy did not contain the required information. The center's posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized. The sample policy was posted but did not specify what is required in a SIDS policy. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a)(1-8) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Three new staff hires had medical reports on file but were not completed on the DCDDEE Staff Medical Report form. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 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. Children routinely transported did not have a photograph maintained in the vehicle used to transport them. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. Seven children were monitored without an annual off premises activities form on file. .1005(b)(4) 1794 A Four- or Five- Star program serving four-year-old children was not implementing an approved curriculum. The center administrator stated the Creative Curriculum was implemented. However, there was not one Teacher's Guide on site, no charting of children's responses, or no quarterly assessments. .2802(d) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go File was not current. Children's medical action plans were not attached or maintained with the child's emergency contact information. The center's allergy list and an area map were not monitored maintained in the RTGF. .0607(d)(10) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The center's EPR plan was not updated annually in the DCDEE electronic template. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There were not at least six inches in depth of mulch under and around the stationary play equipment or at the exit points. .0605(k)(1-4) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. Recommendations were made regarding transportation, outdoor environment, outdoor play for infants, CCRI grants, developmentally appropriate activities, health and safety training requirements, CPR/FA requirements. 2. It was recommended to develop quiet activity bags for older children who do not sleep during nap time hours. 3. It was recommended to develop and alter children’s daily outdoor times to reflect the season. The center’s daily schedule should reflect the change to the time-of-day children go outside, weather permitting. 4. It was recommended to work towards the staff obtaining training on the selected curriculum. 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0606 SAFE SLEEP PRACTICES (a) Each center licensed to care for infants aged 12 months or younger shall develop, adopt, and comply with a written safe sleep policy that: (1) specifies that caregivers shall place infants aged 12 months or younger on their backs for sleeping, unless: (A) for an infant aged six months or less, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional; or (B) for an infant older than six months, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional, or a parent or a legal guardian; (2) specifies no pillows, wedges or other positioners, pillow-like toys, blankets, toys, bumper pads, quilts, sheepskins, loose bedding, towels and washcloths, or other objects may be placed with a sleeping infant aged 12 months or younger; (3) specifies that children shall not be swaddled; (4) specifies that nothing shall be placed over the head or face of an infant aged 12 months or younger when the infant is laid down to sleep; (5) specifies that the temperature in the room where infants aged 12 months or younger are sleeping does not exceed 75° F; (6) specifies that caregivers shall visually check, in person, sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger at least every 15 minutes; (7) specifies how caregivers shall document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger; (8) specifies that pacifiers that attach to infant clothing shall not be used with sleeping infants; (9) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger sleep alone in a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; (10) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger are prohibited from sleeping in sitting devices, including car safety seats, strollers, swings, and infant carriers. Infants that fall asleep in sitting devices shall be moved to a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; and (11) specifies any other steps the center shall take to provide a safe sleep environment for infants aged 12 months or younger. (b) The center shall post a copy of its safe sleep policy about infant safe sleep practices in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers are able to view daily. (c) A copy of the center's safe sleep policy shall be given and explained to the parents of an infant aged 12 months or younger on or before the first day the infant attends the center. The parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the policy. The acknowledgement shall contain: (1) the infant's name; (2) the date the infant first attended the center; (3) the date the center's safe sleep policy was given and explained to the parent; and (4) the date the parent signed the acknowledgement. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (d) If a center amends its safe sleep policy, it shall give written notice of the amendment to the parents of all enrolled infants aged 12 months or younger at least 14 days before the amended policy is implemented. Each parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the amendment. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (e) A caregiver shall place a child age 12 months or younger on the child's back for sleeping, unless for a child age 6 months or younger, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional; or for a child older than 6 months, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional or parent. Waivers shall include the following: (1) the infant's name and birth date; (2) the signature and date of the infant's health care professional or parent; (3) if a wedge is needed specify why it is needed and how it is to be used; and (4) the infant's authorized sleep positions. The center shall retain the waiver in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (f) For each infant with a waiver on file at the center as specified in Paragraph (e) of this Rule, a notice shall be posted for quick reference near the infant's crib, bassinet, play pen, cot or mat that shall include: (1) the infant's name; (2) the infant's authorized sleep position; and (3) the location of the signed waiver. No confidential medical information, including an infant's medical diagnosis, shall be shown on the notice. (g) Documents that verify staff member's compliance with visual checks on infants shall be maintained for a minimum of one month. (h) A bed, crib, or cot, equipped with a firm waterproof mattress at least four inches thick and a fitted sheet shall be provided for each child who remains in the center after midnight. The top of bunk beds shall be used by school-age children only. (i) A caregiver shall not place anything over the face of a child during rest time. 5. SECTION .1000 - TRANSPORTATION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .1001 SEAT AND CHILD SAFETY SEATS IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) When children enrolled in a child care center are being transported, each adult and child shall be restrained with an individual seat belt or child safety seat appropriate to the child’s age or weight in accordance with G.S. 20-135.2A located at http://www.buckleupnc.org/occupant-restraint-laws/seat-belt-law-summary/. (b) Only one person shall occupy each seat belt or child safety seat. 10A NCAC 09 .1002 SAFE VEHICLES (a) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall be free of hazards such as, but not limited to, torn upholstery that allows children to remove the interior padding, broken windows, holes in the floor or roof, or tire treads of less than 2/32 of an inch. (b) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. (c) Vehicles shall be insured for liability as required by State laws governing transportation of passengers pursuant to G.S. 20-279.21. (d) Vehicles used to transport children in snowy, icy, and other hazardous weather conditions must be equipped with snow tires or chains as appropriate. 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES (a) The driver or other staff member in the vehicle shall ensure that all children are transferred to an individual who is indicated on the child's application as specified in Rule .0801(a)(7) of this Chapter or as authorized by the parent. (b) Each center shall establish procedures for pick-up and delivery of children to ensure children are protected from danger and not exposed to risk of harm. These procedures shall be communicated to parents, and a copy shall be posted in the center where they can be seen by the parents. (c) A First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be located in each vehicle used to transport children. The First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be mounted or secured if kept in the passenger compartment. (d) 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 by Rule .0802(c) of this Chapter, shall be in the vehicle. (e) The driver shall: (1) be 21 years old or a licensed bus driver; (2) have a valid driver's license of the type required under North Carolina Motor Vehicle Law for the vehicle being driven or comparable license from the state in which the driver resides; and (3) have no convictions of Driving While Impaired (DWI) or any other impaired driving offense within the previous three years. (f) Each person in the vehicle shall be seated in the manufacturer's designated areas. No child shall ride in the load carrying area or floor of a vehicle. (g) Children shall not be left in a vehicle unattended by an adult. (h) Children shall be loaded and unloaded from curbside or in a safe, off-street area, out of the flow of traffic, so that they are protected from all traffic hazards. (i) Before children are transported, written permission from a parent shall be obtained that shall include when and where the child is to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. (j) Parents may give standing permission, valid for up to 12 months, for transport of children to and from the center not including off premise activities as described in Rule .1005 of this Section. (k) When children are transported, staff in each vehicle shall have a functioning cellular telephone or other functioning two-way voice communication device. Staff shall not use cellular telephones or other functioning two-way voice communication devices except in the case of an emergency and only when the vehicle is parked in a safe location. (l) For routine transport of children to and from the center, staff shall have a list of the children being transported. Staff members shall use this list to document attendance as children board the vehicle and as they depart the vehicle. A list of all children being transported shall also be available at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .1004 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS (a) When children aged two years and older are being transported, the staff/child ratios required for compliance with child care center rules as set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter shall apply. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. (b) When three or more children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio. (c) When less than three children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. 10A NCAC 09 .1005 OFF PREMISE ACTIVITIES IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Off premise activities refer to any activity that takes place away from a child care center’s licensed and approved space. Licensed and approved space includes "primary space" as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1401(a), outdoor space as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1402, single use rooms, or other administrative areas. (b) When children participate in off premise activities the following shall apply: (1) Children under the age of three shall not participate in off premise activities that involve children being transported in a motor vehicle. (2) When children are transported in a motor vehicle for off premise activities, the provisions in Rule .1003(c) through (i) and (k) of this Chapter shall apply. (3) Before staff members walk children off premises for play or outings, the center shall obtain written permission from the parent of each child to be included in such activities. (4) Parents may provide a written statement giving standing permission which may be valid for up to 12 months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis. (5) The center shall post a schedule of off premise activities in each participating classroom where it can be viewed by parents, and a copy shall be given to parents. The schedule shall be current and shall include the: (A) location of the activity; (B) purpose of the activity; (C) time the activity will take place; (D) date of the activity; and (E) name of the person(s) to be contacted in the event of an emergency. (6) Each time that children are taken off the premises, staff shall take a list of the children participating in the activity with them. Staff members shall use this list to check attendance when leaving the center, periodically when the children are involved in the activity, before leaving the activity to return to the child care center, and upon return to the center. A list of all children participating in the off premise activity shall also be available at the center. (c) The provisions of Subparagraphs (b)(1) and (5) of this Rule shall be waived to implement any child's Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or Individualized Education Program (IEP). Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 7870 Woodmere Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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 .1002 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2024 Number Present: 36 Completed Date: 2/6/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 440 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 05:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival, I was buzzed inside by the on-site administrator, Ms. Darlene Lemons. The center continued to maintain a four-star rated license and continued to meet enhanced space and ratios. The center continued approved to operate first and second shifts. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated August 2023 were used to document compliance. Thirty-six children were present, ranging in age from eight months up to Pre-K five years of age. There were not any school-age children present but twenty-two enrolled. Five operating/approved spaces, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and van were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored eating their lunch, napping on cots with linen, hand washing, diapering, and eating PM snacks. There were no multiples of three of the same toys offered in each classroom. There were books monitored in poor repair and removed from the environment during the walk through. The school age room/space #5 needed manipulatives, board games, math, and science materials. There was one evacuation crib monitored in space #1. Another crib should be purchased when six children are enrolled in the space. There was not any equipment for infant staff to use to get infants outside daily, weather permitting. A bye-bye buggy or strollers should be purchased and used daily unless active precipitation is falling from the sky. The posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized and did not specify what the center will or will not do to keep infant’s sleep environment safe. I also recommended purchasing a thermometer for infant staff to track the classroom temperature, since it is not permitted to exceed 75f. Bottles were labeled and dated. Documentation of safe sleep checks were monitored documented and current. Cribs were labeled and identified if the infant could roll over on their own. Seven children’s files were monitored for compliance. Seven children did not have annual parental permission to participate in activities outside of the fenced area, like monthly fire drills. The center administrator was asked what the implemented curriculum was used in the center. Ms. Lemons stated the center used The Creative Curriculum. While conducting the walk through of the center classrooms, I asked the teaching staff to show me their Teacher’s Guide Book, if quarterly assessments were completed and if each child had a portfolio. I could not see any charting of the children’s responses. The posted lesson plan stated the theme was love but did not see elements of love throughout the center materials or posted in the classrooms. It was recommended to inquire about training from CCRI with staff. Each classroom should have a Foundations book and Teaching Strategies Teacher’s Guide book. Staff and Training worksheets were provided upon request. There were three new staff hired since the last AC visit conducted in February of 2023. Three staff had printed medicals from their applicable doctor. Staff’s medicals must be on the DCDEE Staff Medical Report form. I asked for the operator to be added to the worksheet to help track her CBC qualification dates. One existing staff file was monitored for compliance and found to meet child care requirements. The center’s EPR plan and RTGF were monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not updated annually in the required electronic template provided by DCDEE. The EPR/RTGF was missing the center’s allergy list, medical plans attached to the child’s application, and an area map. A checklist was emailed during the visit. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored for compliance. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. The path of travel the children take from space #5 was monitored deteriorated with missing railing slats, warped wood with exposed hardware. The side white fence was hanging over with a fallen tree on it. The leaning fence caused the entire fence to lean forward causing an entrapment. Pictures were taken by the administrator. Required protective surfacing did not meet child care requirements of six inches in depth. There were exposed tree roots causing potential tripping hazards to staff and children. There were two gates in the back that would not close properly and were dragging across the ground. The center used one van monitored with current inspection, registration, Progressive insurance (expires 1/9/2025). Children’s emergency information was maintained in the binder, but a photograph of each child transported was not attached to the child’s emergency application. We discussed the fire extinguisher and first aid requirements. It was recommended to add the van driver’s emergency contact information to the transportation binder. The last sanitation inspection was conducted July 19, 2023, with six (6) demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on January 5, 2024. It was highly recommended to begin the annual inspection process 4-6 weeks prior to expiration. The center will be due to complete a three-year reassessment later than July 7, 2025. The last ERS were completed on March 18, 2022. The overall average ERS was 4.89. It was recommended to review any items scored under a 5.0 with staff during staff meetings and pursue any CCRI grant programs to help with child environments and staff training/support. Violation Number Comment Rule 468 When three-year-old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. There were not at least multiple of three of the same toys accessible to them. (spaces #3, 4 and 5). .0510(d)(1) 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not 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. Multiples of three toys per each type of toy were not present in spaces #1 and #2. .0510(e)(3) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The side back fence is in poor repair due to a fallen tree limb. The fence is bowed over and caused an entrapment. The side wooden ramp is in poor condition with rotten wooden railings and exposed hardware, missing slats on railing by 2/3 classroom. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There were several exposed tree roots in the back outdoor learning environment. One of the roots was monitored coming through the mulch. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 826 Gates to the fenced outdoor play area did not remain closed while children occupied the area. Two outdoor gates were monitored dragging on the ground. .0605(i) 832 There was no written emergency medical care (EMC) plan. The center EMC plan was not current. The posted plan listed Shawn Wilson who retired from the Health Department over two years ago. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 891 The safe sleep policy did not contain the required information. The center's posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized. The sample policy was posted but did not specify what is required in a SIDS policy. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a)(1-8) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Three new staff hires had medical reports on file but were not completed on the DCDDEE Staff Medical Report form. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 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. Children routinely transported did not have a photograph maintained in the vehicle used to transport them. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. Seven children were monitored without an annual off premises activities form on file. .1005(b)(4) 1794 A Four- or Five- Star program serving four-year-old children was not implementing an approved curriculum. The center administrator stated the Creative Curriculum was implemented. However, there was not one Teacher's Guide on site, no charting of children's responses, or no quarterly assessments. .2802(d) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go File was not current. Children's medical action plans were not attached or maintained with the child's emergency contact information. The center's allergy list and an area map were not monitored maintained in the RTGF. .0607(d)(10) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The center's EPR plan was not updated annually in the DCDEE electronic template. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There were not at least six inches in depth of mulch under and around the stationary play equipment or at the exit points. .0605(k)(1-4) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. Recommendations were made regarding transportation, outdoor environment, outdoor play for infants, CCRI grants, developmentally appropriate activities, health and safety training requirements, CPR/FA requirements. 2. It was recommended to develop quiet activity bags for older children who do not sleep during nap time hours. 3. It was recommended to develop and alter children’s daily outdoor times to reflect the season. The center’s daily schedule should reflect the change to the time-of-day children go outside, weather permitting. 4. It was recommended to work towards the staff obtaining training on the selected curriculum. 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0606 SAFE SLEEP PRACTICES (a) Each center licensed to care for infants aged 12 months or younger shall develop, adopt, and comply with a written safe sleep policy that: (1) specifies that caregivers shall place infants aged 12 months or younger on their backs for sleeping, unless: (A) for an infant aged six months or less, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional; or (B) for an infant older than six months, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional, or a parent or a legal guardian; (2) specifies no pillows, wedges or other positioners, pillow-like toys, blankets, toys, bumper pads, quilts, sheepskins, loose bedding, towels and washcloths, or other objects may be placed with a sleeping infant aged 12 months or younger; (3) specifies that children shall not be swaddled; (4) specifies that nothing shall be placed over the head or face of an infant aged 12 months or younger when the infant is laid down to sleep; (5) specifies that the temperature in the room where infants aged 12 months or younger are sleeping does not exceed 75° F; (6) specifies that caregivers shall visually check, in person, sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger at least every 15 minutes; (7) specifies how caregivers shall document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger; (8) specifies that pacifiers that attach to infant clothing shall not be used with sleeping infants; (9) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger sleep alone in a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; (10) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger are prohibited from sleeping in sitting devices, including car safety seats, strollers, swings, and infant carriers. Infants that fall asleep in sitting devices shall be moved to a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; and (11) specifies any other steps the center shall take to provide a safe sleep environment for infants aged 12 months or younger. (b) The center shall post a copy of its safe sleep policy about infant safe sleep practices in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers are able to view daily. (c) A copy of the center's safe sleep policy shall be given and explained to the parents of an infant aged 12 months or younger on or before the first day the infant attends the center. The parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the policy. The acknowledgement shall contain: (1) the infant's name; (2) the date the infant first attended the center; (3) the date the center's safe sleep policy was given and explained to the parent; and (4) the date the parent signed the acknowledgement. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (d) If a center amends its safe sleep policy, it shall give written notice of the amendment to the parents of all enrolled infants aged 12 months or younger at least 14 days before the amended policy is implemented. Each parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the amendment. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (e) A caregiver shall place a child age 12 months or younger on the child's back for sleeping, unless for a child age 6 months or younger, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional; or for a child older than 6 months, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional or parent. Waivers shall include the following: (1) the infant's name and birth date; (2) the signature and date of the infant's health care professional or parent; (3) if a wedge is needed specify why it is needed and how it is to be used; and (4) the infant's authorized sleep positions. The center shall retain the waiver in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (f) For each infant with a waiver on file at the center as specified in Paragraph (e) of this Rule, a notice shall be posted for quick reference near the infant's crib, bassinet, play pen, cot or mat that shall include: (1) the infant's name; (2) the infant's authorized sleep position; and (3) the location of the signed waiver. No confidential medical information, including an infant's medical diagnosis, shall be shown on the notice. (g) Documents that verify staff member's compliance with visual checks on infants shall be maintained for a minimum of one month. (h) A bed, crib, or cot, equipped with a firm waterproof mattress at least four inches thick and a fitted sheet shall be provided for each child who remains in the center after midnight. The top of bunk beds shall be used by school-age children only. (i) A caregiver shall not place anything over the face of a child during rest time. 5. SECTION .1000 - TRANSPORTATION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .1001 SEAT AND CHILD SAFETY SEATS IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) When children enrolled in a child care center are being transported, each adult and child shall be restrained with an individual seat belt or child safety seat appropriate to the child’s age or weight in accordance with G.S. 20-135.2A located at http://www.buckleupnc.org/occupant-restraint-laws/seat-belt-law-summary/. (b) Only one person shall occupy each seat belt or child safety seat. 10A NCAC 09 .1002 SAFE VEHICLES (a) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall be free of hazards such as, but not limited to, torn upholstery that allows children to remove the interior padding, broken windows, holes in the floor or roof, or tire treads of less than 2/32 of an inch. (b) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. (c) Vehicles shall be insured for liability as required by State laws governing transportation of passengers pursuant to G.S. 20-279.21. (d) Vehicles used to transport children in snowy, icy, and other hazardous weather conditions must be equipped with snow tires or chains as appropriate. 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES (a) The driver or other staff member in the vehicle shall ensure that all children are transferred to an individual who is indicated on the child's application as specified in Rule .0801(a)(7) of this Chapter or as authorized by the parent. (b) Each center shall establish procedures for pick-up and delivery of children to ensure children are protected from danger and not exposed to risk of harm. These procedures shall be communicated to parents, and a copy shall be posted in the center where they can be seen by the parents. (c) A First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be located in each vehicle used to transport children. The First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be mounted or secured if kept in the passenger compartment. (d) 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 by Rule .0802(c) of this Chapter, shall be in the vehicle. (e) The driver shall: (1) be 21 years old or a licensed bus driver; (2) have a valid driver's license of the type required under North Carolina Motor Vehicle Law for the vehicle being driven or comparable license from the state in which the driver resides; and (3) have no convictions of Driving While Impaired (DWI) or any other impaired driving offense within the previous three years. (f) Each person in the vehicle shall be seated in the manufacturer's designated areas. No child shall ride in the load carrying area or floor of a vehicle. (g) Children shall not be left in a vehicle unattended by an adult. (h) Children shall be loaded and unloaded from curbside or in a safe, off-street area, out of the flow of traffic, so that they are protected from all traffic hazards. (i) Before children are transported, written permission from a parent shall be obtained that shall include when and where the child is to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. (j) Parents may give standing permission, valid for up to 12 months, for transport of children to and from the center not including off premise activities as described in Rule .1005 of this Section. (k) When children are transported, staff in each vehicle shall have a functioning cellular telephone or other functioning two-way voice communication device. Staff shall not use cellular telephones or other functioning two-way voice communication devices except in the case of an emergency and only when the vehicle is parked in a safe location. (l) For routine transport of children to and from the center, staff shall have a list of the children being transported. Staff members shall use this list to document attendance as children board the vehicle and as they depart the vehicle. A list of all children being transported shall also be available at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .1004 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS (a) When children aged two years and older are being transported, the staff/child ratios required for compliance with child care center rules as set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter shall apply. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. (b) When three or more children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio. (c) When less than three children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. 10A NCAC 09 .1005 OFF PREMISE ACTIVITIES IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Off premise activities refer to any activity that takes place away from a child care center’s licensed and approved space. Licensed and approved space includes "primary space" as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1401(a), outdoor space as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1402, single use rooms, or other administrative areas. (b) When children participate in off premise activities the following shall apply: (1) Children under the age of three shall not participate in off premise activities that involve children being transported in a motor vehicle. (2) When children are transported in a motor vehicle for off premise activities, the provisions in Rule .1003(c) through (i) and (k) of this Chapter shall apply. (3) Before staff members walk children off premises for play or outings, the center shall obtain written permission from the parent of each child to be included in such activities. (4) Parents may provide a written statement giving standing permission which may be valid for up to 12 months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis. (5) The center shall post a schedule of off premise activities in each participating classroom where it can be viewed by parents, and a copy shall be given to parents. The schedule shall be current and shall include the: (A) location of the activity; (B) purpose of the activity; (C) time the activity will take place; (D) date of the activity; and (E) name of the person(s) to be contacted in the event of an emergency. (6) Each time that children are taken off the premises, staff shall take a list of the children participating in the activity with them. Staff members shall use this list to check attendance when leaving the center, periodically when the children are involved in the activity, before leaving the activity to return to the child care center, and upon return to the center. A list of all children participating in the off premise activity shall also be available at the center. (c) The provisions of Subparagraphs (b)(1) and (5) of this Rule shall be waived to implement any child's Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or Individualized Education Program (IEP). Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 7870 Woodmere Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2024 Number Present: 36 Completed Date: 2/6/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 440 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 05:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival, I was buzzed inside by the on-site administrator, Ms. Darlene Lemons. The center continued to maintain a four-star rated license and continued to meet enhanced space and ratios. The center continued approved to operate first and second shifts. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated August 2023 were used to document compliance. Thirty-six children were present, ranging in age from eight months up to Pre-K five years of age. There were not any school-age children present but twenty-two enrolled. Five operating/approved spaces, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and van were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored eating their lunch, napping on cots with linen, hand washing, diapering, and eating PM snacks. There were no multiples of three of the same toys offered in each classroom. There were books monitored in poor repair and removed from the environment during the walk through. The school age room/space #5 needed manipulatives, board games, math, and science materials. There was one evacuation crib monitored in space #1. Another crib should be purchased when six children are enrolled in the space. There was not any equipment for infant staff to use to get infants outside daily, weather permitting. A bye-bye buggy or strollers should be purchased and used daily unless active precipitation is falling from the sky. The posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized and did not specify what the center will or will not do to keep infant’s sleep environment safe. I also recommended purchasing a thermometer for infant staff to track the classroom temperature, since it is not permitted to exceed 75f. Bottles were labeled and dated. Documentation of safe sleep checks were monitored documented and current. Cribs were labeled and identified if the infant could roll over on their own. Seven children’s files were monitored for compliance. Seven children did not have annual parental permission to participate in activities outside of the fenced area, like monthly fire drills. The center administrator was asked what the implemented curriculum was used in the center. Ms. Lemons stated the center used The Creative Curriculum. While conducting the walk through of the center classrooms, I asked the teaching staff to show me their Teacher’s Guide Book, if quarterly assessments were completed and if each child had a portfolio. I could not see any charting of the children’s responses. The posted lesson plan stated the theme was love but did not see elements of love throughout the center materials or posted in the classrooms. It was recommended to inquire about training from CCRI with staff. Each classroom should have a Foundations book and Teaching Strategies Teacher’s Guide book. Staff and Training worksheets were provided upon request. There were three new staff hired since the last AC visit conducted in February of 2023. Three staff had printed medicals from their applicable doctor. Staff’s medicals must be on the DCDEE Staff Medical Report form. I asked for the operator to be added to the worksheet to help track her CBC qualification dates. One existing staff file was monitored for compliance and found to meet child care requirements. The center’s EPR plan and RTGF were monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not updated annually in the required electronic template provided by DCDEE. The EPR/RTGF was missing the center’s allergy list, medical plans attached to the child’s application, and an area map. A checklist was emailed during the visit. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored for compliance. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. The path of travel the children take from space #5 was monitored deteriorated with missing railing slats, warped wood with exposed hardware. The side white fence was hanging over with a fallen tree on it. The leaning fence caused the entire fence to lean forward causing an entrapment. Pictures were taken by the administrator. Required protective surfacing did not meet child care requirements of six inches in depth. There were exposed tree roots causing potential tripping hazards to staff and children. There were two gates in the back that would not close properly and were dragging across the ground. The center used one van monitored with current inspection, registration, Progressive insurance (expires 1/9/2025). Children’s emergency information was maintained in the binder, but a photograph of each child transported was not attached to the child’s emergency application. We discussed the fire extinguisher and first aid requirements. It was recommended to add the van driver’s emergency contact information to the transportation binder. The last sanitation inspection was conducted July 19, 2023, with six (6) demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on January 5, 2024. It was highly recommended to begin the annual inspection process 4-6 weeks prior to expiration. The center will be due to complete a three-year reassessment later than July 7, 2025. The last ERS were completed on March 18, 2022. The overall average ERS was 4.89. It was recommended to review any items scored under a 5.0 with staff during staff meetings and pursue any CCRI grant programs to help with child environments and staff training/support. Violation Number Comment Rule 468 When three-year-old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. There were not at least multiple of three of the same toys accessible to them. (spaces #3, 4 and 5). .0510(d)(1) 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not 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. Multiples of three toys per each type of toy were not present in spaces #1 and #2. .0510(e)(3) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The side back fence is in poor repair due to a fallen tree limb. The fence is bowed over and caused an entrapment. The side wooden ramp is in poor condition with rotten wooden railings and exposed hardware, missing slats on railing by 2/3 classroom. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There were several exposed tree roots in the back outdoor learning environment. One of the roots was monitored coming through the mulch. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 826 Gates to the fenced outdoor play area did not remain closed while children occupied the area. Two outdoor gates were monitored dragging on the ground. .0605(i) 832 There was no written emergency medical care (EMC) plan. The center EMC plan was not current. The posted plan listed Shawn Wilson who retired from the Health Department over two years ago. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 891 The safe sleep policy did not contain the required information. The center's posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized. The sample policy was posted but did not specify what is required in a SIDS policy. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a)(1-8) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Three new staff hires had medical reports on file but were not completed on the DCDDEE Staff Medical Report form. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 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. Children routinely transported did not have a photograph maintained in the vehicle used to transport them. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. Seven children were monitored without an annual off premises activities form on file. .1005(b)(4) 1794 A Four- or Five- Star program serving four-year-old children was not implementing an approved curriculum. The center administrator stated the Creative Curriculum was implemented. However, there was not one Teacher's Guide on site, no charting of children's responses, or no quarterly assessments. .2802(d) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go File was not current. Children's medical action plans were not attached or maintained with the child's emergency contact information. The center's allergy list and an area map were not monitored maintained in the RTGF. .0607(d)(10) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The center's EPR plan was not updated annually in the DCDEE electronic template. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There were not at least six inches in depth of mulch under and around the stationary play equipment or at the exit points. .0605(k)(1-4) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. Recommendations were made regarding transportation, outdoor environment, outdoor play for infants, CCRI grants, developmentally appropriate activities, health and safety training requirements, CPR/FA requirements. 2. It was recommended to develop quiet activity bags for older children who do not sleep during nap time hours. 3. It was recommended to develop and alter children’s daily outdoor times to reflect the season. The center’s daily schedule should reflect the change to the time-of-day children go outside, weather permitting. 4. It was recommended to work towards the staff obtaining training on the selected curriculum. 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0606 SAFE SLEEP PRACTICES (a) Each center licensed to care for infants aged 12 months or younger shall develop, adopt, and comply with a written safe sleep policy that: (1) specifies that caregivers shall place infants aged 12 months or younger on their backs for sleeping, unless: (A) for an infant aged six months or less, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional; or (B) for an infant older than six months, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional, or a parent or a legal guardian; (2) specifies no pillows, wedges or other positioners, pillow-like toys, blankets, toys, bumper pads, quilts, sheepskins, loose bedding, towels and washcloths, or other objects may be placed with a sleeping infant aged 12 months or younger; (3) specifies that children shall not be swaddled; (4) specifies that nothing shall be placed over the head or face of an infant aged 12 months or younger when the infant is laid down to sleep; (5) specifies that the temperature in the room where infants aged 12 months or younger are sleeping does not exceed 75° F; (6) specifies that caregivers shall visually check, in person, sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger at least every 15 minutes; (7) specifies how caregivers shall document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger; (8) specifies that pacifiers that attach to infant clothing shall not be used with sleeping infants; (9) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger sleep alone in a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; (10) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger are prohibited from sleeping in sitting devices, including car safety seats, strollers, swings, and infant carriers. Infants that fall asleep in sitting devices shall be moved to a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; and (11) specifies any other steps the center shall take to provide a safe sleep environment for infants aged 12 months or younger. (b) The center shall post a copy of its safe sleep policy about infant safe sleep practices in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers are able to view daily. (c) A copy of the center's safe sleep policy shall be given and explained to the parents of an infant aged 12 months or younger on or before the first day the infant attends the center. The parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the policy. The acknowledgement shall contain: (1) the infant's name; (2) the date the infant first attended the center; (3) the date the center's safe sleep policy was given and explained to the parent; and (4) the date the parent signed the acknowledgement. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (d) If a center amends its safe sleep policy, it shall give written notice of the amendment to the parents of all enrolled infants aged 12 months or younger at least 14 days before the amended policy is implemented. Each parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the amendment. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (e) A caregiver shall place a child age 12 months or younger on the child's back for sleeping, unless for a child age 6 months or younger, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional; or for a child older than 6 months, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional or parent. Waivers shall include the following: (1) the infant's name and birth date; (2) the signature and date of the infant's health care professional or parent; (3) if a wedge is needed specify why it is needed and how it is to be used; and (4) the infant's authorized sleep positions. The center shall retain the waiver in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (f) For each infant with a waiver on file at the center as specified in Paragraph (e) of this Rule, a notice shall be posted for quick reference near the infant's crib, bassinet, play pen, cot or mat that shall include: (1) the infant's name; (2) the infant's authorized sleep position; and (3) the location of the signed waiver. No confidential medical information, including an infant's medical diagnosis, shall be shown on the notice. (g) Documents that verify staff member's compliance with visual checks on infants shall be maintained for a minimum of one month. (h) A bed, crib, or cot, equipped with a firm waterproof mattress at least four inches thick and a fitted sheet shall be provided for each child who remains in the center after midnight. The top of bunk beds shall be used by school-age children only. (i) A caregiver shall not place anything over the face of a child during rest time. 5. SECTION .1000 - TRANSPORTATION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .1001 SEAT AND CHILD SAFETY SEATS IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) When children enrolled in a child care center are being transported, each adult and child shall be restrained with an individual seat belt or child safety seat appropriate to the child’s age or weight in accordance with G.S. 20-135.2A located at http://www.buckleupnc.org/occupant-restraint-laws/seat-belt-law-summary/. (b) Only one person shall occupy each seat belt or child safety seat. 10A NCAC 09 .1002 SAFE VEHICLES (a) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall be free of hazards such as, but not limited to, torn upholstery that allows children to remove the interior padding, broken windows, holes in the floor or roof, or tire treads of less than 2/32 of an inch. (b) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. (c) Vehicles shall be insured for liability as required by State laws governing transportation of passengers pursuant to G.S. 20-279.21. (d) Vehicles used to transport children in snowy, icy, and other hazardous weather conditions must be equipped with snow tires or chains as appropriate. 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES (a) The driver or other staff member in the vehicle shall ensure that all children are transferred to an individual who is indicated on the child's application as specified in Rule .0801(a)(7) of this Chapter or as authorized by the parent. (b) Each center shall establish procedures for pick-up and delivery of children to ensure children are protected from danger and not exposed to risk of harm. These procedures shall be communicated to parents, and a copy shall be posted in the center where they can be seen by the parents. (c) A First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be located in each vehicle used to transport children. The First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be mounted or secured if kept in the passenger compartment. (d) 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 by Rule .0802(c) of this Chapter, shall be in the vehicle. (e) The driver shall: (1) be 21 years old or a licensed bus driver; (2) have a valid driver's license of the type required under North Carolina Motor Vehicle Law for the vehicle being driven or comparable license from the state in which the driver resides; and (3) have no convictions of Driving While Impaired (DWI) or any other impaired driving offense within the previous three years. (f) Each person in the vehicle shall be seated in the manufacturer's designated areas. No child shall ride in the load carrying area or floor of a vehicle. (g) Children shall not be left in a vehicle unattended by an adult. (h) Children shall be loaded and unloaded from curbside or in a safe, off-street area, out of the flow of traffic, so that they are protected from all traffic hazards. (i) Before children are transported, written permission from a parent shall be obtained that shall include when and where the child is to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. (j) Parents may give standing permission, valid for up to 12 months, for transport of children to and from the center not including off premise activities as described in Rule .1005 of this Section. (k) When children are transported, staff in each vehicle shall have a functioning cellular telephone or other functioning two-way voice communication device. Staff shall not use cellular telephones or other functioning two-way voice communication devices except in the case of an emergency and only when the vehicle is parked in a safe location. (l) For routine transport of children to and from the center, staff shall have a list of the children being transported. Staff members shall use this list to document attendance as children board the vehicle and as they depart the vehicle. A list of all children being transported shall also be available at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .1004 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS (a) When children aged two years and older are being transported, the staff/child ratios required for compliance with child care center rules as set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter shall apply. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. (b) When three or more children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio. (c) When less than three children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. 10A NCAC 09 .1005 OFF PREMISE ACTIVITIES IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Off premise activities refer to any activity that takes place away from a child care center’s licensed and approved space. Licensed and approved space includes "primary space" as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1401(a), outdoor space as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1402, single use rooms, or other administrative areas. (b) When children participate in off premise activities the following shall apply: (1) Children under the age of three shall not participate in off premise activities that involve children being transported in a motor vehicle. (2) When children are transported in a motor vehicle for off premise activities, the provisions in Rule .1003(c) through (i) and (k) of this Chapter shall apply. (3) Before staff members walk children off premises for play or outings, the center shall obtain written permission from the parent of each child to be included in such activities. (4) Parents may provide a written statement giving standing permission which may be valid for up to 12 months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis. (5) The center shall post a schedule of off premise activities in each participating classroom where it can be viewed by parents, and a copy shall be given to parents. The schedule shall be current and shall include the: (A) location of the activity; (B) purpose of the activity; (C) time the activity will take place; (D) date of the activity; and (E) name of the person(s) to be contacted in the event of an emergency. (6) Each time that children are taken off the premises, staff shall take a list of the children participating in the activity with them. Staff members shall use this list to check attendance when leaving the center, periodically when the children are involved in the activity, before leaving the activity to return to the child care center, and upon return to the center. A list of all children participating in the off premise activity shall also be available at the center. (c) The provisions of Subparagraphs (b)(1) and (5) of this Rule shall be waived to implement any child's Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or Individualized Education Program (IEP). Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 7870 Woodmere Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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 .1004 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2024 Number Present: 36 Completed Date: 2/6/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 440 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 05:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival, I was buzzed inside by the on-site administrator, Ms. Darlene Lemons. The center continued to maintain a four-star rated license and continued to meet enhanced space and ratios. The center continued approved to operate first and second shifts. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated August 2023 were used to document compliance. Thirty-six children were present, ranging in age from eight months up to Pre-K five years of age. There were not any school-age children present but twenty-two enrolled. Five operating/approved spaces, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and van were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored eating their lunch, napping on cots with linen, hand washing, diapering, and eating PM snacks. There were no multiples of three of the same toys offered in each classroom. There were books monitored in poor repair and removed from the environment during the walk through. The school age room/space #5 needed manipulatives, board games, math, and science materials. There was one evacuation crib monitored in space #1. Another crib should be purchased when six children are enrolled in the space. There was not any equipment for infant staff to use to get infants outside daily, weather permitting. A bye-bye buggy or strollers should be purchased and used daily unless active precipitation is falling from the sky. The posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized and did not specify what the center will or will not do to keep infant’s sleep environment safe. I also recommended purchasing a thermometer for infant staff to track the classroom temperature, since it is not permitted to exceed 75f. Bottles were labeled and dated. Documentation of safe sleep checks were monitored documented and current. Cribs were labeled and identified if the infant could roll over on their own. Seven children’s files were monitored for compliance. Seven children did not have annual parental permission to participate in activities outside of the fenced area, like monthly fire drills. The center administrator was asked what the implemented curriculum was used in the center. Ms. Lemons stated the center used The Creative Curriculum. While conducting the walk through of the center classrooms, I asked the teaching staff to show me their Teacher’s Guide Book, if quarterly assessments were completed and if each child had a portfolio. I could not see any charting of the children’s responses. The posted lesson plan stated the theme was love but did not see elements of love throughout the center materials or posted in the classrooms. It was recommended to inquire about training from CCRI with staff. Each classroom should have a Foundations book and Teaching Strategies Teacher’s Guide book. Staff and Training worksheets were provided upon request. There were three new staff hired since the last AC visit conducted in February of 2023. Three staff had printed medicals from their applicable doctor. Staff’s medicals must be on the DCDEE Staff Medical Report form. I asked for the operator to be added to the worksheet to help track her CBC qualification dates. One existing staff file was monitored for compliance and found to meet child care requirements. The center’s EPR plan and RTGF were monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not updated annually in the required electronic template provided by DCDEE. The EPR/RTGF was missing the center’s allergy list, medical plans attached to the child’s application, and an area map. A checklist was emailed during the visit. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored for compliance. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. The path of travel the children take from space #5 was monitored deteriorated with missing railing slats, warped wood with exposed hardware. The side white fence was hanging over with a fallen tree on it. The leaning fence caused the entire fence to lean forward causing an entrapment. Pictures were taken by the administrator. Required protective surfacing did not meet child care requirements of six inches in depth. There were exposed tree roots causing potential tripping hazards to staff and children. There were two gates in the back that would not close properly and were dragging across the ground. The center used one van monitored with current inspection, registration, Progressive insurance (expires 1/9/2025). Children’s emergency information was maintained in the binder, but a photograph of each child transported was not attached to the child’s emergency application. We discussed the fire extinguisher and first aid requirements. It was recommended to add the van driver’s emergency contact information to the transportation binder. The last sanitation inspection was conducted July 19, 2023, with six (6) demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on January 5, 2024. It was highly recommended to begin the annual inspection process 4-6 weeks prior to expiration. The center will be due to complete a three-year reassessment later than July 7, 2025. The last ERS were completed on March 18, 2022. The overall average ERS was 4.89. It was recommended to review any items scored under a 5.0 with staff during staff meetings and pursue any CCRI grant programs to help with child environments and staff training/support. Violation Number Comment Rule 468 When three-year-old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. There were not at least multiple of three of the same toys accessible to them. (spaces #3, 4 and 5). .0510(d)(1) 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not 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. Multiples of three toys per each type of toy were not present in spaces #1 and #2. .0510(e)(3) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The side back fence is in poor repair due to a fallen tree limb. The fence is bowed over and caused an entrapment. The side wooden ramp is in poor condition with rotten wooden railings and exposed hardware, missing slats on railing by 2/3 classroom. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There were several exposed tree roots in the back outdoor learning environment. One of the roots was monitored coming through the mulch. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 826 Gates to the fenced outdoor play area did not remain closed while children occupied the area. Two outdoor gates were monitored dragging on the ground. .0605(i) 832 There was no written emergency medical care (EMC) plan. The center EMC plan was not current. The posted plan listed Shawn Wilson who retired from the Health Department over two years ago. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 891 The safe sleep policy did not contain the required information. The center's posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized. The sample policy was posted but did not specify what is required in a SIDS policy. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a)(1-8) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Three new staff hires had medical reports on file but were not completed on the DCDDEE Staff Medical Report form. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 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. Children routinely transported did not have a photograph maintained in the vehicle used to transport them. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. Seven children were monitored without an annual off premises activities form on file. .1005(b)(4) 1794 A Four- or Five- Star program serving four-year-old children was not implementing an approved curriculum. The center administrator stated the Creative Curriculum was implemented. However, there was not one Teacher's Guide on site, no charting of children's responses, or no quarterly assessments. .2802(d) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go File was not current. Children's medical action plans were not attached or maintained with the child's emergency contact information. The center's allergy list and an area map were not monitored maintained in the RTGF. .0607(d)(10) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The center's EPR plan was not updated annually in the DCDEE electronic template. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There were not at least six inches in depth of mulch under and around the stationary play equipment or at the exit points. .0605(k)(1-4) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. Recommendations were made regarding transportation, outdoor environment, outdoor play for infants, CCRI grants, developmentally appropriate activities, health and safety training requirements, CPR/FA requirements. 2. It was recommended to develop quiet activity bags for older children who do not sleep during nap time hours. 3. It was recommended to develop and alter children’s daily outdoor times to reflect the season. The center’s daily schedule should reflect the change to the time-of-day children go outside, weather permitting. 4. It was recommended to work towards the staff obtaining training on the selected curriculum. 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0606 SAFE SLEEP PRACTICES (a) Each center licensed to care for infants aged 12 months or younger shall develop, adopt, and comply with a written safe sleep policy that: (1) specifies that caregivers shall place infants aged 12 months or younger on their backs for sleeping, unless: (A) for an infant aged six months or less, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional; or (B) for an infant older than six months, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional, or a parent or a legal guardian; (2) specifies no pillows, wedges or other positioners, pillow-like toys, blankets, toys, bumper pads, quilts, sheepskins, loose bedding, towels and washcloths, or other objects may be placed with a sleeping infant aged 12 months or younger; (3) specifies that children shall not be swaddled; (4) specifies that nothing shall be placed over the head or face of an infant aged 12 months or younger when the infant is laid down to sleep; (5) specifies that the temperature in the room where infants aged 12 months or younger are sleeping does not exceed 75° F; (6) specifies that caregivers shall visually check, in person, sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger at least every 15 minutes; (7) specifies how caregivers shall document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger; (8) specifies that pacifiers that attach to infant clothing shall not be used with sleeping infants; (9) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger sleep alone in a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; (10) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger are prohibited from sleeping in sitting devices, including car safety seats, strollers, swings, and infant carriers. Infants that fall asleep in sitting devices shall be moved to a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; and (11) specifies any other steps the center shall take to provide a safe sleep environment for infants aged 12 months or younger. (b) The center shall post a copy of its safe sleep policy about infant safe sleep practices in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers are able to view daily. (c) A copy of the center's safe sleep policy shall be given and explained to the parents of an infant aged 12 months or younger on or before the first day the infant attends the center. The parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the policy. The acknowledgement shall contain: (1) the infant's name; (2) the date the infant first attended the center; (3) the date the center's safe sleep policy was given and explained to the parent; and (4) the date the parent signed the acknowledgement. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (d) If a center amends its safe sleep policy, it shall give written notice of the amendment to the parents of all enrolled infants aged 12 months or younger at least 14 days before the amended policy is implemented. Each parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the amendment. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (e) A caregiver shall place a child age 12 months or younger on the child's back for sleeping, unless for a child age 6 months or younger, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional; or for a child older than 6 months, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional or parent. Waivers shall include the following: (1) the infant's name and birth date; (2) the signature and date of the infant's health care professional or parent; (3) if a wedge is needed specify why it is needed and how it is to be used; and (4) the infant's authorized sleep positions. The center shall retain the waiver in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (f) For each infant with a waiver on file at the center as specified in Paragraph (e) of this Rule, a notice shall be posted for quick reference near the infant's crib, bassinet, play pen, cot or mat that shall include: (1) the infant's name; (2) the infant's authorized sleep position; and (3) the location of the signed waiver. No confidential medical information, including an infant's medical diagnosis, shall be shown on the notice. (g) Documents that verify staff member's compliance with visual checks on infants shall be maintained for a minimum of one month. (h) A bed, crib, or cot, equipped with a firm waterproof mattress at least four inches thick and a fitted sheet shall be provided for each child who remains in the center after midnight. The top of bunk beds shall be used by school-age children only. (i) A caregiver shall not place anything over the face of a child during rest time. 5. SECTION .1000 - TRANSPORTATION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .1001 SEAT AND CHILD SAFETY SEATS IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) When children enrolled in a child care center are being transported, each adult and child shall be restrained with an individual seat belt or child safety seat appropriate to the child’s age or weight in accordance with G.S. 20-135.2A located at http://www.buckleupnc.org/occupant-restraint-laws/seat-belt-law-summary/. (b) Only one person shall occupy each seat belt or child safety seat. 10A NCAC 09 .1002 SAFE VEHICLES (a) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall be free of hazards such as, but not limited to, torn upholstery that allows children to remove the interior padding, broken windows, holes in the floor or roof, or tire treads of less than 2/32 of an inch. (b) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. (c) Vehicles shall be insured for liability as required by State laws governing transportation of passengers pursuant to G.S. 20-279.21. (d) Vehicles used to transport children in snowy, icy, and other hazardous weather conditions must be equipped with snow tires or chains as appropriate. 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES (a) The driver or other staff member in the vehicle shall ensure that all children are transferred to an individual who is indicated on the child's application as specified in Rule .0801(a)(7) of this Chapter or as authorized by the parent. (b) Each center shall establish procedures for pick-up and delivery of children to ensure children are protected from danger and not exposed to risk of harm. These procedures shall be communicated to parents, and a copy shall be posted in the center where they can be seen by the parents. (c) A First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be located in each vehicle used to transport children. The First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be mounted or secured if kept in the passenger compartment. (d) 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 by Rule .0802(c) of this Chapter, shall be in the vehicle. (e) The driver shall: (1) be 21 years old or a licensed bus driver; (2) have a valid driver's license of the type required under North Carolina Motor Vehicle Law for the vehicle being driven or comparable license from the state in which the driver resides; and (3) have no convictions of Driving While Impaired (DWI) or any other impaired driving offense within the previous three years. (f) Each person in the vehicle shall be seated in the manufacturer's designated areas. No child shall ride in the load carrying area or floor of a vehicle. (g) Children shall not be left in a vehicle unattended by an adult. (h) Children shall be loaded and unloaded from curbside or in a safe, off-street area, out of the flow of traffic, so that they are protected from all traffic hazards. (i) Before children are transported, written permission from a parent shall be obtained that shall include when and where the child is to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. (j) Parents may give standing permission, valid for up to 12 months, for transport of children to and from the center not including off premise activities as described in Rule .1005 of this Section. (k) When children are transported, staff in each vehicle shall have a functioning cellular telephone or other functioning two-way voice communication device. Staff shall not use cellular telephones or other functioning two-way voice communication devices except in the case of an emergency and only when the vehicle is parked in a safe location. (l) For routine transport of children to and from the center, staff shall have a list of the children being transported. Staff members shall use this list to document attendance as children board the vehicle and as they depart the vehicle. A list of all children being transported shall also be available at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .1004 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS (a) When children aged two years and older are being transported, the staff/child ratios required for compliance with child care center rules as set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter shall apply. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. (b) When three or more children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio. (c) When less than three children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. 10A NCAC 09 .1005 OFF PREMISE ACTIVITIES IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Off premise activities refer to any activity that takes place away from a child care center’s licensed and approved space. Licensed and approved space includes "primary space" as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1401(a), outdoor space as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1402, single use rooms, or other administrative areas. (b) When children participate in off premise activities the following shall apply: (1) Children under the age of three shall not participate in off premise activities that involve children being transported in a motor vehicle. (2) When children are transported in a motor vehicle for off premise activities, the provisions in Rule .1003(c) through (i) and (k) of this Chapter shall apply. (3) Before staff members walk children off premises for play or outings, the center shall obtain written permission from the parent of each child to be included in such activities. (4) Parents may provide a written statement giving standing permission which may be valid for up to 12 months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis. (5) The center shall post a schedule of off premise activities in each participating classroom where it can be viewed by parents, and a copy shall be given to parents. The schedule shall be current and shall include the: (A) location of the activity; (B) purpose of the activity; (C) time the activity will take place; (D) date of the activity; and (E) name of the person(s) to be contacted in the event of an emergency. (6) Each time that children are taken off the premises, staff shall take a list of the children participating in the activity with them. Staff members shall use this list to check attendance when leaving the center, periodically when the children are involved in the activity, before leaving the activity to return to the child care center, and upon return to the center. A list of all children participating in the off premise activity shall also be available at the center. (c) The provisions of Subparagraphs (b)(1) and (5) of this Rule shall be waived to implement any child's Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or Individualized Education Program (IEP). Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 7870 Woodmere Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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 .1005 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2024 Number Present: 36 Completed Date: 2/6/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 440 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 05:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival, I was buzzed inside by the on-site administrator, Ms. Darlene Lemons. The center continued to maintain a four-star rated license and continued to meet enhanced space and ratios. The center continued approved to operate first and second shifts. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated August 2023 were used to document compliance. Thirty-six children were present, ranging in age from eight months up to Pre-K five years of age. There were not any school-age children present but twenty-two enrolled. Five operating/approved spaces, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and van were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored eating their lunch, napping on cots with linen, hand washing, diapering, and eating PM snacks. There were no multiples of three of the same toys offered in each classroom. There were books monitored in poor repair and removed from the environment during the walk through. The school age room/space #5 needed manipulatives, board games, math, and science materials. There was one evacuation crib monitored in space #1. Another crib should be purchased when six children are enrolled in the space. There was not any equipment for infant staff to use to get infants outside daily, weather permitting. A bye-bye buggy or strollers should be purchased and used daily unless active precipitation is falling from the sky. The posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized and did not specify what the center will or will not do to keep infant’s sleep environment safe. I also recommended purchasing a thermometer for infant staff to track the classroom temperature, since it is not permitted to exceed 75f. Bottles were labeled and dated. Documentation of safe sleep checks were monitored documented and current. Cribs were labeled and identified if the infant could roll over on their own. Seven children’s files were monitored for compliance. Seven children did not have annual parental permission to participate in activities outside of the fenced area, like monthly fire drills. The center administrator was asked what the implemented curriculum was used in the center. Ms. Lemons stated the center used The Creative Curriculum. While conducting the walk through of the center classrooms, I asked the teaching staff to show me their Teacher’s Guide Book, if quarterly assessments were completed and if each child had a portfolio. I could not see any charting of the children’s responses. The posted lesson plan stated the theme was love but did not see elements of love throughout the center materials or posted in the classrooms. It was recommended to inquire about training from CCRI with staff. Each classroom should have a Foundations book and Teaching Strategies Teacher’s Guide book. Staff and Training worksheets were provided upon request. There were three new staff hired since the last AC visit conducted in February of 2023. Three staff had printed medicals from their applicable doctor. Staff’s medicals must be on the DCDEE Staff Medical Report form. I asked for the operator to be added to the worksheet to help track her CBC qualification dates. One existing staff file was monitored for compliance and found to meet child care requirements. The center’s EPR plan and RTGF were monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not updated annually in the required electronic template provided by DCDEE. The EPR/RTGF was missing the center’s allergy list, medical plans attached to the child’s application, and an area map. A checklist was emailed during the visit. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored for compliance. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. The path of travel the children take from space #5 was monitored deteriorated with missing railing slats, warped wood with exposed hardware. The side white fence was hanging over with a fallen tree on it. The leaning fence caused the entire fence to lean forward causing an entrapment. Pictures were taken by the administrator. Required protective surfacing did not meet child care requirements of six inches in depth. There were exposed tree roots causing potential tripping hazards to staff and children. There were two gates in the back that would not close properly and were dragging across the ground. The center used one van monitored with current inspection, registration, Progressive insurance (expires 1/9/2025). Children’s emergency information was maintained in the binder, but a photograph of each child transported was not attached to the child’s emergency application. We discussed the fire extinguisher and first aid requirements. It was recommended to add the van driver’s emergency contact information to the transportation binder. The last sanitation inspection was conducted July 19, 2023, with six (6) demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on January 5, 2024. It was highly recommended to begin the annual inspection process 4-6 weeks prior to expiration. The center will be due to complete a three-year reassessment later than July 7, 2025. The last ERS were completed on March 18, 2022. The overall average ERS was 4.89. It was recommended to review any items scored under a 5.0 with staff during staff meetings and pursue any CCRI grant programs to help with child environments and staff training/support. Violation Number Comment Rule 468 When three-year-old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. There were not at least multiple of three of the same toys accessible to them. (spaces #3, 4 and 5). .0510(d)(1) 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not 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. Multiples of three toys per each type of toy were not present in spaces #1 and #2. .0510(e)(3) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The side back fence is in poor repair due to a fallen tree limb. The fence is bowed over and caused an entrapment. The side wooden ramp is in poor condition with rotten wooden railings and exposed hardware, missing slats on railing by 2/3 classroom. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There were several exposed tree roots in the back outdoor learning environment. One of the roots was monitored coming through the mulch. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 826 Gates to the fenced outdoor play area did not remain closed while children occupied the area. Two outdoor gates were monitored dragging on the ground. .0605(i) 832 There was no written emergency medical care (EMC) plan. The center EMC plan was not current. The posted plan listed Shawn Wilson who retired from the Health Department over two years ago. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 891 The safe sleep policy did not contain the required information. The center's posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized. The sample policy was posted but did not specify what is required in a SIDS policy. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a)(1-8) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Three new staff hires had medical reports on file but were not completed on the DCDDEE Staff Medical Report form. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 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. Children routinely transported did not have a photograph maintained in the vehicle used to transport them. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. Seven children were monitored without an annual off premises activities form on file. .1005(b)(4) 1794 A Four- or Five- Star program serving four-year-old children was not implementing an approved curriculum. The center administrator stated the Creative Curriculum was implemented. However, there was not one Teacher's Guide on site, no charting of children's responses, or no quarterly assessments. .2802(d) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go File was not current. Children's medical action plans were not attached or maintained with the child's emergency contact information. The center's allergy list and an area map were not monitored maintained in the RTGF. .0607(d)(10) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The center's EPR plan was not updated annually in the DCDEE electronic template. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There were not at least six inches in depth of mulch under and around the stationary play equipment or at the exit points. .0605(k)(1-4) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. Recommendations were made regarding transportation, outdoor environment, outdoor play for infants, CCRI grants, developmentally appropriate activities, health and safety training requirements, CPR/FA requirements. 2. It was recommended to develop quiet activity bags for older children who do not sleep during nap time hours. 3. It was recommended to develop and alter children’s daily outdoor times to reflect the season. The center’s daily schedule should reflect the change to the time-of-day children go outside, weather permitting. 4. It was recommended to work towards the staff obtaining training on the selected curriculum. 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0606 SAFE SLEEP PRACTICES (a) Each center licensed to care for infants aged 12 months or younger shall develop, adopt, and comply with a written safe sleep policy that: (1) specifies that caregivers shall place infants aged 12 months or younger on their backs for sleeping, unless: (A) for an infant aged six months or less, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional; or (B) for an infant older than six months, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional, or a parent or a legal guardian; (2) specifies no pillows, wedges or other positioners, pillow-like toys, blankets, toys, bumper pads, quilts, sheepskins, loose bedding, towels and washcloths, or other objects may be placed with a sleeping infant aged 12 months or younger; (3) specifies that children shall not be swaddled; (4) specifies that nothing shall be placed over the head or face of an infant aged 12 months or younger when the infant is laid down to sleep; (5) specifies that the temperature in the room where infants aged 12 months or younger are sleeping does not exceed 75° F; (6) specifies that caregivers shall visually check, in person, sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger at least every 15 minutes; (7) specifies how caregivers shall document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger; (8) specifies that pacifiers that attach to infant clothing shall not be used with sleeping infants; (9) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger sleep alone in a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; (10) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger are prohibited from sleeping in sitting devices, including car safety seats, strollers, swings, and infant carriers. Infants that fall asleep in sitting devices shall be moved to a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; and (11) specifies any other steps the center shall take to provide a safe sleep environment for infants aged 12 months or younger. (b) The center shall post a copy of its safe sleep policy about infant safe sleep practices in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers are able to view daily. (c) A copy of the center's safe sleep policy shall be given and explained to the parents of an infant aged 12 months or younger on or before the first day the infant attends the center. The parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the policy. The acknowledgement shall contain: (1) the infant's name; (2) the date the infant first attended the center; (3) the date the center's safe sleep policy was given and explained to the parent; and (4) the date the parent signed the acknowledgement. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (d) If a center amends its safe sleep policy, it shall give written notice of the amendment to the parents of all enrolled infants aged 12 months or younger at least 14 days before the amended policy is implemented. Each parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the amendment. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (e) A caregiver shall place a child age 12 months or younger on the child's back for sleeping, unless for a child age 6 months or younger, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional; or for a child older than 6 months, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional or parent. Waivers shall include the following: (1) the infant's name and birth date; (2) the signature and date of the infant's health care professional or parent; (3) if a wedge is needed specify why it is needed and how it is to be used; and (4) the infant's authorized sleep positions. The center shall retain the waiver in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (f) For each infant with a waiver on file at the center as specified in Paragraph (e) of this Rule, a notice shall be posted for quick reference near the infant's crib, bassinet, play pen, cot or mat that shall include: (1) the infant's name; (2) the infant's authorized sleep position; and (3) the location of the signed waiver. No confidential medical information, including an infant's medical diagnosis, shall be shown on the notice. (g) Documents that verify staff member's compliance with visual checks on infants shall be maintained for a minimum of one month. (h) A bed, crib, or cot, equipped with a firm waterproof mattress at least four inches thick and a fitted sheet shall be provided for each child who remains in the center after midnight. The top of bunk beds shall be used by school-age children only. (i) A caregiver shall not place anything over the face of a child during rest time. 5. SECTION .1000 - TRANSPORTATION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .1001 SEAT AND CHILD SAFETY SEATS IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) When children enrolled in a child care center are being transported, each adult and child shall be restrained with an individual seat belt or child safety seat appropriate to the child’s age or weight in accordance with G.S. 20-135.2A located at http://www.buckleupnc.org/occupant-restraint-laws/seat-belt-law-summary/. (b) Only one person shall occupy each seat belt or child safety seat. 10A NCAC 09 .1002 SAFE VEHICLES (a) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall be free of hazards such as, but not limited to, torn upholstery that allows children to remove the interior padding, broken windows, holes in the floor or roof, or tire treads of less than 2/32 of an inch. (b) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. (c) Vehicles shall be insured for liability as required by State laws governing transportation of passengers pursuant to G.S. 20-279.21. (d) Vehicles used to transport children in snowy, icy, and other hazardous weather conditions must be equipped with snow tires or chains as appropriate. 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES (a) The driver or other staff member in the vehicle shall ensure that all children are transferred to an individual who is indicated on the child's application as specified in Rule .0801(a)(7) of this Chapter or as authorized by the parent. (b) Each center shall establish procedures for pick-up and delivery of children to ensure children are protected from danger and not exposed to risk of harm. These procedures shall be communicated to parents, and a copy shall be posted in the center where they can be seen by the parents. (c) A First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be located in each vehicle used to transport children. The First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be mounted or secured if kept in the passenger compartment. (d) 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 by Rule .0802(c) of this Chapter, shall be in the vehicle. (e) The driver shall: (1) be 21 years old or a licensed bus driver; (2) have a valid driver's license of the type required under North Carolina Motor Vehicle Law for the vehicle being driven or comparable license from the state in which the driver resides; and (3) have no convictions of Driving While Impaired (DWI) or any other impaired driving offense within the previous three years. (f) Each person in the vehicle shall be seated in the manufacturer's designated areas. No child shall ride in the load carrying area or floor of a vehicle. (g) Children shall not be left in a vehicle unattended by an adult. (h) Children shall be loaded and unloaded from curbside or in a safe, off-street area, out of the flow of traffic, so that they are protected from all traffic hazards. (i) Before children are transported, written permission from a parent shall be obtained that shall include when and where the child is to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. (j) Parents may give standing permission, valid for up to 12 months, for transport of children to and from the center not including off premise activities as described in Rule .1005 of this Section. (k) When children are transported, staff in each vehicle shall have a functioning cellular telephone or other functioning two-way voice communication device. Staff shall not use cellular telephones or other functioning two-way voice communication devices except in the case of an emergency and only when the vehicle is parked in a safe location. (l) For routine transport of children to and from the center, staff shall have a list of the children being transported. Staff members shall use this list to document attendance as children board the vehicle and as they depart the vehicle. A list of all children being transported shall also be available at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .1004 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS (a) When children aged two years and older are being transported, the staff/child ratios required for compliance with child care center rules as set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter shall apply. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. (b) When three or more children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio. (c) When less than three children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. 10A NCAC 09 .1005 OFF PREMISE ACTIVITIES IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Off premise activities refer to any activity that takes place away from a child care center’s licensed and approved space. Licensed and approved space includes "primary space" as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1401(a), outdoor space as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1402, single use rooms, or other administrative areas. (b) When children participate in off premise activities the following shall apply: (1) Children under the age of three shall not participate in off premise activities that involve children being transported in a motor vehicle. (2) When children are transported in a motor vehicle for off premise activities, the provisions in Rule .1003(c) through (i) and (k) of this Chapter shall apply. (3) Before staff members walk children off premises for play or outings, the center shall obtain written permission from the parent of each child to be included in such activities. (4) Parents may provide a written statement giving standing permission which may be valid for up to 12 months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis. (5) The center shall post a schedule of off premise activities in each participating classroom where it can be viewed by parents, and a copy shall be given to parents. The schedule shall be current and shall include the: (A) location of the activity; (B) purpose of the activity; (C) time the activity will take place; (D) date of the activity; and (E) name of the person(s) to be contacted in the event of an emergency. (6) Each time that children are taken off the premises, staff shall take a list of the children participating in the activity with them. Staff members shall use this list to check attendance when leaving the center, periodically when the children are involved in the activity, before leaving the activity to return to the child care center, and upon return to the center. A list of all children participating in the off premise activity shall also be available at the center. (c) The provisions of Subparagraphs (b)(1) and (5) of this Rule shall be waived to implement any child's Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or Individualized Education Program (IEP). Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 7870 Woodmere Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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 .1401 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2024 Number Present: 36 Completed Date: 2/6/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 440 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 05:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival, I was buzzed inside by the on-site administrator, Ms. Darlene Lemons. The center continued to maintain a four-star rated license and continued to meet enhanced space and ratios. The center continued approved to operate first and second shifts. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated August 2023 were used to document compliance. Thirty-six children were present, ranging in age from eight months up to Pre-K five years of age. There were not any school-age children present but twenty-two enrolled. Five operating/approved spaces, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and van were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored eating their lunch, napping on cots with linen, hand washing, diapering, and eating PM snacks. There were no multiples of three of the same toys offered in each classroom. There were books monitored in poor repair and removed from the environment during the walk through. The school age room/space #5 needed manipulatives, board games, math, and science materials. There was one evacuation crib monitored in space #1. Another crib should be purchased when six children are enrolled in the space. There was not any equipment for infant staff to use to get infants outside daily, weather permitting. A bye-bye buggy or strollers should be purchased and used daily unless active precipitation is falling from the sky. The posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized and did not specify what the center will or will not do to keep infant’s sleep environment safe. I also recommended purchasing a thermometer for infant staff to track the classroom temperature, since it is not permitted to exceed 75f. Bottles were labeled and dated. Documentation of safe sleep checks were monitored documented and current. Cribs were labeled and identified if the infant could roll over on their own. Seven children’s files were monitored for compliance. Seven children did not have annual parental permission to participate in activities outside of the fenced area, like monthly fire drills. The center administrator was asked what the implemented curriculum was used in the center. Ms. Lemons stated the center used The Creative Curriculum. While conducting the walk through of the center classrooms, I asked the teaching staff to show me their Teacher’s Guide Book, if quarterly assessments were completed and if each child had a portfolio. I could not see any charting of the children’s responses. The posted lesson plan stated the theme was love but did not see elements of love throughout the center materials or posted in the classrooms. It was recommended to inquire about training from CCRI with staff. Each classroom should have a Foundations book and Teaching Strategies Teacher’s Guide book. Staff and Training worksheets were provided upon request. There were three new staff hired since the last AC visit conducted in February of 2023. Three staff had printed medicals from their applicable doctor. Staff’s medicals must be on the DCDEE Staff Medical Report form. I asked for the operator to be added to the worksheet to help track her CBC qualification dates. One existing staff file was monitored for compliance and found to meet child care requirements. The center’s EPR plan and RTGF were monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not updated annually in the required electronic template provided by DCDEE. The EPR/RTGF was missing the center’s allergy list, medical plans attached to the child’s application, and an area map. A checklist was emailed during the visit. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored for compliance. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. The path of travel the children take from space #5 was monitored deteriorated with missing railing slats, warped wood with exposed hardware. The side white fence was hanging over with a fallen tree on it. The leaning fence caused the entire fence to lean forward causing an entrapment. Pictures were taken by the administrator. Required protective surfacing did not meet child care requirements of six inches in depth. There were exposed tree roots causing potential tripping hazards to staff and children. There were two gates in the back that would not close properly and were dragging across the ground. The center used one van monitored with current inspection, registration, Progressive insurance (expires 1/9/2025). Children’s emergency information was maintained in the binder, but a photograph of each child transported was not attached to the child’s emergency application. We discussed the fire extinguisher and first aid requirements. It was recommended to add the van driver’s emergency contact information to the transportation binder. The last sanitation inspection was conducted July 19, 2023, with six (6) demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on January 5, 2024. It was highly recommended to begin the annual inspection process 4-6 weeks prior to expiration. The center will be due to complete a three-year reassessment later than July 7, 2025. The last ERS were completed on March 18, 2022. The overall average ERS was 4.89. It was recommended to review any items scored under a 5.0 with staff during staff meetings and pursue any CCRI grant programs to help with child environments and staff training/support. Violation Number Comment Rule 468 When three-year-old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. There were not at least multiple of three of the same toys accessible to them. (spaces #3, 4 and 5). .0510(d)(1) 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not 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. Multiples of three toys per each type of toy were not present in spaces #1 and #2. .0510(e)(3) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The side back fence is in poor repair due to a fallen tree limb. The fence is bowed over and caused an entrapment. The side wooden ramp is in poor condition with rotten wooden railings and exposed hardware, missing slats on railing by 2/3 classroom. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There were several exposed tree roots in the back outdoor learning environment. One of the roots was monitored coming through the mulch. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 826 Gates to the fenced outdoor play area did not remain closed while children occupied the area. Two outdoor gates were monitored dragging on the ground. .0605(i) 832 There was no written emergency medical care (EMC) plan. The center EMC plan was not current. The posted plan listed Shawn Wilson who retired from the Health Department over two years ago. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 891 The safe sleep policy did not contain the required information. The center's posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized. The sample policy was posted but did not specify what is required in a SIDS policy. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a)(1-8) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Three new staff hires had medical reports on file but were not completed on the DCDDEE Staff Medical Report form. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 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. Children routinely transported did not have a photograph maintained in the vehicle used to transport them. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. Seven children were monitored without an annual off premises activities form on file. .1005(b)(4) 1794 A Four- or Five- Star program serving four-year-old children was not implementing an approved curriculum. The center administrator stated the Creative Curriculum was implemented. However, there was not one Teacher's Guide on site, no charting of children's responses, or no quarterly assessments. .2802(d) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go File was not current. Children's medical action plans were not attached or maintained with the child's emergency contact information. The center's allergy list and an area map were not monitored maintained in the RTGF. .0607(d)(10) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The center's EPR plan was not updated annually in the DCDEE electronic template. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There were not at least six inches in depth of mulch under and around the stationary play equipment or at the exit points. .0605(k)(1-4) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. Recommendations were made regarding transportation, outdoor environment, outdoor play for infants, CCRI grants, developmentally appropriate activities, health and safety training requirements, CPR/FA requirements. 2. It was recommended to develop quiet activity bags for older children who do not sleep during nap time hours. 3. It was recommended to develop and alter children’s daily outdoor times to reflect the season. The center’s daily schedule should reflect the change to the time-of-day children go outside, weather permitting. 4. It was recommended to work towards the staff obtaining training on the selected curriculum. 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0606 SAFE SLEEP PRACTICES (a) Each center licensed to care for infants aged 12 months or younger shall develop, adopt, and comply with a written safe sleep policy that: (1) specifies that caregivers shall place infants aged 12 months or younger on their backs for sleeping, unless: (A) for an infant aged six months or less, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional; or (B) for an infant older than six months, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional, or a parent or a legal guardian; (2) specifies no pillows, wedges or other positioners, pillow-like toys, blankets, toys, bumper pads, quilts, sheepskins, loose bedding, towels and washcloths, or other objects may be placed with a sleeping infant aged 12 months or younger; (3) specifies that children shall not be swaddled; (4) specifies that nothing shall be placed over the head or face of an infant aged 12 months or younger when the infant is laid down to sleep; (5) specifies that the temperature in the room where infants aged 12 months or younger are sleeping does not exceed 75° F; (6) specifies that caregivers shall visually check, in person, sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger at least every 15 minutes; (7) specifies how caregivers shall document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger; (8) specifies that pacifiers that attach to infant clothing shall not be used with sleeping infants; (9) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger sleep alone in a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; (10) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger are prohibited from sleeping in sitting devices, including car safety seats, strollers, swings, and infant carriers. Infants that fall asleep in sitting devices shall be moved to a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; and (11) specifies any other steps the center shall take to provide a safe sleep environment for infants aged 12 months or younger. (b) The center shall post a copy of its safe sleep policy about infant safe sleep practices in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers are able to view daily. (c) A copy of the center's safe sleep policy shall be given and explained to the parents of an infant aged 12 months or younger on or before the first day the infant attends the center. The parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the policy. The acknowledgement shall contain: (1) the infant's name; (2) the date the infant first attended the center; (3) the date the center's safe sleep policy was given and explained to the parent; and (4) the date the parent signed the acknowledgement. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (d) If a center amends its safe sleep policy, it shall give written notice of the amendment to the parents of all enrolled infants aged 12 months or younger at least 14 days before the amended policy is implemented. Each parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the amendment. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (e) A caregiver shall place a child age 12 months or younger on the child's back for sleeping, unless for a child age 6 months or younger, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional; or for a child older than 6 months, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional or parent. Waivers shall include the following: (1) the infant's name and birth date; (2) the signature and date of the infant's health care professional or parent; (3) if a wedge is needed specify why it is needed and how it is to be used; and (4) the infant's authorized sleep positions. The center shall retain the waiver in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (f) For each infant with a waiver on file at the center as specified in Paragraph (e) of this Rule, a notice shall be posted for quick reference near the infant's crib, bassinet, play pen, cot or mat that shall include: (1) the infant's name; (2) the infant's authorized sleep position; and (3) the location of the signed waiver. No confidential medical information, including an infant's medical diagnosis, shall be shown on the notice. (g) Documents that verify staff member's compliance with visual checks on infants shall be maintained for a minimum of one month. (h) A bed, crib, or cot, equipped with a firm waterproof mattress at least four inches thick and a fitted sheet shall be provided for each child who remains in the center after midnight. The top of bunk beds shall be used by school-age children only. (i) A caregiver shall not place anything over the face of a child during rest time. 5. SECTION .1000 - TRANSPORTATION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .1001 SEAT AND CHILD SAFETY SEATS IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) When children enrolled in a child care center are being transported, each adult and child shall be restrained with an individual seat belt or child safety seat appropriate to the child’s age or weight in accordance with G.S. 20-135.2A located at http://www.buckleupnc.org/occupant-restraint-laws/seat-belt-law-summary/. (b) Only one person shall occupy each seat belt or child safety seat. 10A NCAC 09 .1002 SAFE VEHICLES (a) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall be free of hazards such as, but not limited to, torn upholstery that allows children to remove the interior padding, broken windows, holes in the floor or roof, or tire treads of less than 2/32 of an inch. (b) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. (c) Vehicles shall be insured for liability as required by State laws governing transportation of passengers pursuant to G.S. 20-279.21. (d) Vehicles used to transport children in snowy, icy, and other hazardous weather conditions must be equipped with snow tires or chains as appropriate. 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES (a) The driver or other staff member in the vehicle shall ensure that all children are transferred to an individual who is indicated on the child's application as specified in Rule .0801(a)(7) of this Chapter or as authorized by the parent. (b) Each center shall establish procedures for pick-up and delivery of children to ensure children are protected from danger and not exposed to risk of harm. These procedures shall be communicated to parents, and a copy shall be posted in the center where they can be seen by the parents. (c) A First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be located in each vehicle used to transport children. The First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be mounted or secured if kept in the passenger compartment. (d) 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 by Rule .0802(c) of this Chapter, shall be in the vehicle. (e) The driver shall: (1) be 21 years old or a licensed bus driver; (2) have a valid driver's license of the type required under North Carolina Motor Vehicle Law for the vehicle being driven or comparable license from the state in which the driver resides; and (3) have no convictions of Driving While Impaired (DWI) or any other impaired driving offense within the previous three years. (f) Each person in the vehicle shall be seated in the manufacturer's designated areas. No child shall ride in the load carrying area or floor of a vehicle. (g) Children shall not be left in a vehicle unattended by an adult. (h) Children shall be loaded and unloaded from curbside or in a safe, off-street area, out of the flow of traffic, so that they are protected from all traffic hazards. (i) Before children are transported, written permission from a parent shall be obtained that shall include when and where the child is to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. (j) Parents may give standing permission, valid for up to 12 months, for transport of children to and from the center not including off premise activities as described in Rule .1005 of this Section. (k) When children are transported, staff in each vehicle shall have a functioning cellular telephone or other functioning two-way voice communication device. Staff shall not use cellular telephones or other functioning two-way voice communication devices except in the case of an emergency and only when the vehicle is parked in a safe location. (l) For routine transport of children to and from the center, staff shall have a list of the children being transported. Staff members shall use this list to document attendance as children board the vehicle and as they depart the vehicle. A list of all children being transported shall also be available at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .1004 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS (a) When children aged two years and older are being transported, the staff/child ratios required for compliance with child care center rules as set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter shall apply. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. (b) When three or more children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio. (c) When less than three children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. 10A NCAC 09 .1005 OFF PREMISE ACTIVITIES IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Off premise activities refer to any activity that takes place away from a child care center’s licensed and approved space. Licensed and approved space includes "primary space" as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1401(a), outdoor space as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1402, single use rooms, or other administrative areas. (b) When children participate in off premise activities the following shall apply: (1) Children under the age of three shall not participate in off premise activities that involve children being transported in a motor vehicle. (2) When children are transported in a motor vehicle for off premise activities, the provisions in Rule .1003(c) through (i) and (k) of this Chapter shall apply. (3) Before staff members walk children off premises for play or outings, the center shall obtain written permission from the parent of each child to be included in such activities. (4) Parents may provide a written statement giving standing permission which may be valid for up to 12 months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis. (5) The center shall post a schedule of off premise activities in each participating classroom where it can be viewed by parents, and a copy shall be given to parents. The schedule shall be current and shall include the: (A) location of the activity; (B) purpose of the activity; (C) time the activity will take place; (D) date of the activity; and (E) name of the person(s) to be contacted in the event of an emergency. (6) Each time that children are taken off the premises, staff shall take a list of the children participating in the activity with them. Staff members shall use this list to check attendance when leaving the center, periodically when the children are involved in the activity, before leaving the activity to return to the child care center, and upon return to the center. A list of all children participating in the off premise activity shall also be available at the center. (c) The provisions of Subparagraphs (b)(1) and (5) of this Rule shall be waived to implement any child's Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or Individualized Education Program (IEP). Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 7870 Woodmere Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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 .1402 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2024 Number Present: 36 Completed Date: 2/6/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 440 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 05:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival, I was buzzed inside by the on-site administrator, Ms. Darlene Lemons. The center continued to maintain a four-star rated license and continued to meet enhanced space and ratios. The center continued approved to operate first and second shifts. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated August 2023 were used to document compliance. Thirty-six children were present, ranging in age from eight months up to Pre-K five years of age. There were not any school-age children present but twenty-two enrolled. Five operating/approved spaces, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and van were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored eating their lunch, napping on cots with linen, hand washing, diapering, and eating PM snacks. There were no multiples of three of the same toys offered in each classroom. There were books monitored in poor repair and removed from the environment during the walk through. The school age room/space #5 needed manipulatives, board games, math, and science materials. There was one evacuation crib monitored in space #1. Another crib should be purchased when six children are enrolled in the space. There was not any equipment for infant staff to use to get infants outside daily, weather permitting. A bye-bye buggy or strollers should be purchased and used daily unless active precipitation is falling from the sky. The posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized and did not specify what the center will or will not do to keep infant’s sleep environment safe. I also recommended purchasing a thermometer for infant staff to track the classroom temperature, since it is not permitted to exceed 75f. Bottles were labeled and dated. Documentation of safe sleep checks were monitored documented and current. Cribs were labeled and identified if the infant could roll over on their own. Seven children’s files were monitored for compliance. Seven children did not have annual parental permission to participate in activities outside of the fenced area, like monthly fire drills. The center administrator was asked what the implemented curriculum was used in the center. Ms. Lemons stated the center used The Creative Curriculum. While conducting the walk through of the center classrooms, I asked the teaching staff to show me their Teacher’s Guide Book, if quarterly assessments were completed and if each child had a portfolio. I could not see any charting of the children’s responses. The posted lesson plan stated the theme was love but did not see elements of love throughout the center materials or posted in the classrooms. It was recommended to inquire about training from CCRI with staff. Each classroom should have a Foundations book and Teaching Strategies Teacher’s Guide book. Staff and Training worksheets were provided upon request. There were three new staff hired since the last AC visit conducted in February of 2023. Three staff had printed medicals from their applicable doctor. Staff’s medicals must be on the DCDEE Staff Medical Report form. I asked for the operator to be added to the worksheet to help track her CBC qualification dates. One existing staff file was monitored for compliance and found to meet child care requirements. The center’s EPR plan and RTGF were monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not updated annually in the required electronic template provided by DCDEE. The EPR/RTGF was missing the center’s allergy list, medical plans attached to the child’s application, and an area map. A checklist was emailed during the visit. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored for compliance. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. The path of travel the children take from space #5 was monitored deteriorated with missing railing slats, warped wood with exposed hardware. The side white fence was hanging over with a fallen tree on it. The leaning fence caused the entire fence to lean forward causing an entrapment. Pictures were taken by the administrator. Required protective surfacing did not meet child care requirements of six inches in depth. There were exposed tree roots causing potential tripping hazards to staff and children. There were two gates in the back that would not close properly and were dragging across the ground. The center used one van monitored with current inspection, registration, Progressive insurance (expires 1/9/2025). Children’s emergency information was maintained in the binder, but a photograph of each child transported was not attached to the child’s emergency application. We discussed the fire extinguisher and first aid requirements. It was recommended to add the van driver’s emergency contact information to the transportation binder. The last sanitation inspection was conducted July 19, 2023, with six (6) demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on January 5, 2024. It was highly recommended to begin the annual inspection process 4-6 weeks prior to expiration. The center will be due to complete a three-year reassessment later than July 7, 2025. The last ERS were completed on March 18, 2022. The overall average ERS was 4.89. It was recommended to review any items scored under a 5.0 with staff during staff meetings and pursue any CCRI grant programs to help with child environments and staff training/support. Violation Number Comment Rule 468 When three-year-old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. There were not at least multiple of three of the same toys accessible to them. (spaces #3, 4 and 5). .0510(d)(1) 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not 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. Multiples of three toys per each type of toy were not present in spaces #1 and #2. .0510(e)(3) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The side back fence is in poor repair due to a fallen tree limb. The fence is bowed over and caused an entrapment. The side wooden ramp is in poor condition with rotten wooden railings and exposed hardware, missing slats on railing by 2/3 classroom. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There were several exposed tree roots in the back outdoor learning environment. One of the roots was monitored coming through the mulch. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 826 Gates to the fenced outdoor play area did not remain closed while children occupied the area. Two outdoor gates were monitored dragging on the ground. .0605(i) 832 There was no written emergency medical care (EMC) plan. The center EMC plan was not current. The posted plan listed Shawn Wilson who retired from the Health Department over two years ago. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 891 The safe sleep policy did not contain the required information. The center's posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized. The sample policy was posted but did not specify what is required in a SIDS policy. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a)(1-8) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Three new staff hires had medical reports on file but were not completed on the DCDDEE Staff Medical Report form. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 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. Children routinely transported did not have a photograph maintained in the vehicle used to transport them. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. Seven children were monitored without an annual off premises activities form on file. .1005(b)(4) 1794 A Four- or Five- Star program serving four-year-old children was not implementing an approved curriculum. The center administrator stated the Creative Curriculum was implemented. However, there was not one Teacher's Guide on site, no charting of children's responses, or no quarterly assessments. .2802(d) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go File was not current. Children's medical action plans were not attached or maintained with the child's emergency contact information. The center's allergy list and an area map were not monitored maintained in the RTGF. .0607(d)(10) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The center's EPR plan was not updated annually in the DCDEE electronic template. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There were not at least six inches in depth of mulch under and around the stationary play equipment or at the exit points. .0605(k)(1-4) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. Recommendations were made regarding transportation, outdoor environment, outdoor play for infants, CCRI grants, developmentally appropriate activities, health and safety training requirements, CPR/FA requirements. 2. It was recommended to develop quiet activity bags for older children who do not sleep during nap time hours. 3. It was recommended to develop and alter children’s daily outdoor times to reflect the season. The center’s daily schedule should reflect the change to the time-of-day children go outside, weather permitting. 4. It was recommended to work towards the staff obtaining training on the selected curriculum. 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0606 SAFE SLEEP PRACTICES (a) Each center licensed to care for infants aged 12 months or younger shall develop, adopt, and comply with a written safe sleep policy that: (1) specifies that caregivers shall place infants aged 12 months or younger on their backs for sleeping, unless: (A) for an infant aged six months or less, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional; or (B) for an infant older than six months, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional, or a parent or a legal guardian; (2) specifies no pillows, wedges or other positioners, pillow-like toys, blankets, toys, bumper pads, quilts, sheepskins, loose bedding, towels and washcloths, or other objects may be placed with a sleeping infant aged 12 months or younger; (3) specifies that children shall not be swaddled; (4) specifies that nothing shall be placed over the head or face of an infant aged 12 months or younger when the infant is laid down to sleep; (5) specifies that the temperature in the room where infants aged 12 months or younger are sleeping does not exceed 75° F; (6) specifies that caregivers shall visually check, in person, sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger at least every 15 minutes; (7) specifies how caregivers shall document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger; (8) specifies that pacifiers that attach to infant clothing shall not be used with sleeping infants; (9) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger sleep alone in a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; (10) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger are prohibited from sleeping in sitting devices, including car safety seats, strollers, swings, and infant carriers. Infants that fall asleep in sitting devices shall be moved to a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; and (11) specifies any other steps the center shall take to provide a safe sleep environment for infants aged 12 months or younger. (b) The center shall post a copy of its safe sleep policy about infant safe sleep practices in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers are able to view daily. (c) A copy of the center's safe sleep policy shall be given and explained to the parents of an infant aged 12 months or younger on or before the first day the infant attends the center. The parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the policy. The acknowledgement shall contain: (1) the infant's name; (2) the date the infant first attended the center; (3) the date the center's safe sleep policy was given and explained to the parent; and (4) the date the parent signed the acknowledgement. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (d) If a center amends its safe sleep policy, it shall give written notice of the amendment to the parents of all enrolled infants aged 12 months or younger at least 14 days before the amended policy is implemented. Each parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the amendment. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (e) A caregiver shall place a child age 12 months or younger on the child's back for sleeping, unless for a child age 6 months or younger, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional; or for a child older than 6 months, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional or parent. Waivers shall include the following: (1) the infant's name and birth date; (2) the signature and date of the infant's health care professional or parent; (3) if a wedge is needed specify why it is needed and how it is to be used; and (4) the infant's authorized sleep positions. The center shall retain the waiver in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (f) For each infant with a waiver on file at the center as specified in Paragraph (e) of this Rule, a notice shall be posted for quick reference near the infant's crib, bassinet, play pen, cot or mat that shall include: (1) the infant's name; (2) the infant's authorized sleep position; and (3) the location of the signed waiver. No confidential medical information, including an infant's medical diagnosis, shall be shown on the notice. (g) Documents that verify staff member's compliance with visual checks on infants shall be maintained for a minimum of one month. (h) A bed, crib, or cot, equipped with a firm waterproof mattress at least four inches thick and a fitted sheet shall be provided for each child who remains in the center after midnight. The top of bunk beds shall be used by school-age children only. (i) A caregiver shall not place anything over the face of a child during rest time. 5. SECTION .1000 - TRANSPORTATION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .1001 SEAT AND CHILD SAFETY SEATS IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) When children enrolled in a child care center are being transported, each adult and child shall be restrained with an individual seat belt or child safety seat appropriate to the child’s age or weight in accordance with G.S. 20-135.2A located at http://www.buckleupnc.org/occupant-restraint-laws/seat-belt-law-summary/. (b) Only one person shall occupy each seat belt or child safety seat. 10A NCAC 09 .1002 SAFE VEHICLES (a) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall be free of hazards such as, but not limited to, torn upholstery that allows children to remove the interior padding, broken windows, holes in the floor or roof, or tire treads of less than 2/32 of an inch. (b) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. (c) Vehicles shall be insured for liability as required by State laws governing transportation of passengers pursuant to G.S. 20-279.21. (d) Vehicles used to transport children in snowy, icy, and other hazardous weather conditions must be equipped with snow tires or chains as appropriate. 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES (a) The driver or other staff member in the vehicle shall ensure that all children are transferred to an individual who is indicated on the child's application as specified in Rule .0801(a)(7) of this Chapter or as authorized by the parent. (b) Each center shall establish procedures for pick-up and delivery of children to ensure children are protected from danger and not exposed to risk of harm. These procedures shall be communicated to parents, and a copy shall be posted in the center where they can be seen by the parents. (c) A First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be located in each vehicle used to transport children. The First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be mounted or secured if kept in the passenger compartment. (d) 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 by Rule .0802(c) of this Chapter, shall be in the vehicle. (e) The driver shall: (1) be 21 years old or a licensed bus driver; (2) have a valid driver's license of the type required under North Carolina Motor Vehicle Law for the vehicle being driven or comparable license from the state in which the driver resides; and (3) have no convictions of Driving While Impaired (DWI) or any other impaired driving offense within the previous three years. (f) Each person in the vehicle shall be seated in the manufacturer's designated areas. No child shall ride in the load carrying area or floor of a vehicle. (g) Children shall not be left in a vehicle unattended by an adult. (h) Children shall be loaded and unloaded from curbside or in a safe, off-street area, out of the flow of traffic, so that they are protected from all traffic hazards. (i) Before children are transported, written permission from a parent shall be obtained that shall include when and where the child is to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. (j) Parents may give standing permission, valid for up to 12 months, for transport of children to and from the center not including off premise activities as described in Rule .1005 of this Section. (k) When children are transported, staff in each vehicle shall have a functioning cellular telephone or other functioning two-way voice communication device. Staff shall not use cellular telephones or other functioning two-way voice communication devices except in the case of an emergency and only when the vehicle is parked in a safe location. (l) For routine transport of children to and from the center, staff shall have a list of the children being transported. Staff members shall use this list to document attendance as children board the vehicle and as they depart the vehicle. A list of all children being transported shall also be available at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .1004 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS (a) When children aged two years and older are being transported, the staff/child ratios required for compliance with child care center rules as set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter shall apply. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. (b) When three or more children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio. (c) When less than three children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. 10A NCAC 09 .1005 OFF PREMISE ACTIVITIES IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Off premise activities refer to any activity that takes place away from a child care center’s licensed and approved space. Licensed and approved space includes "primary space" as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1401(a), outdoor space as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1402, single use rooms, or other administrative areas. (b) When children participate in off premise activities the following shall apply: (1) Children under the age of three shall not participate in off premise activities that involve children being transported in a motor vehicle. (2) When children are transported in a motor vehicle for off premise activities, the provisions in Rule .1003(c) through (i) and (k) of this Chapter shall apply. (3) Before staff members walk children off premises for play or outings, the center shall obtain written permission from the parent of each child to be included in such activities. (4) Parents may provide a written statement giving standing permission which may be valid for up to 12 months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis. (5) The center shall post a schedule of off premise activities in each participating classroom where it can be viewed by parents, and a copy shall be given to parents. The schedule shall be current and shall include the: (A) location of the activity; (B) purpose of the activity; (C) time the activity will take place; (D) date of the activity; and (E) name of the person(s) to be contacted in the event of an emergency. (6) Each time that children are taken off the premises, staff shall take a list of the children participating in the activity with them. Staff members shall use this list to check attendance when leaving the center, periodically when the children are involved in the activity, before leaving the activity to return to the child care center, and upon return to the center. A list of all children participating in the off premise activity shall also be available at the center. (c) The provisions of Subparagraphs (b)(1) and (5) of this Rule shall be waived to implement any child's Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or Individualized Education Program (IEP). Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 7870 Woodmere Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/6/2024 Number Present: 36 Completed Date: 2/6/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 440 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 05:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival, I was buzzed inside by the on-site administrator, Ms. Darlene Lemons. The center continued to maintain a four-star rated license and continued to meet enhanced space and ratios. The center continued approved to operate first and second shifts. The Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers and the Child Care Item Number Listing dated August 2023 were used to document compliance. Thirty-six children were present, ranging in age from eight months up to Pre-K five years of age. There were not any school-age children present but twenty-two enrolled. Five operating/approved spaces, kitchen, outdoor learning environment and van were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored eating their lunch, napping on cots with linen, hand washing, diapering, and eating PM snacks. There were no multiples of three of the same toys offered in each classroom. There were books monitored in poor repair and removed from the environment during the walk through. The school age room/space #5 needed manipulatives, board games, math, and science materials. There was one evacuation crib monitored in space #1. Another crib should be purchased when six children are enrolled in the space. There was not any equipment for infant staff to use to get infants outside daily, weather permitting. A bye-bye buggy or strollers should be purchased and used daily unless active precipitation is falling from the sky. The posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized and did not specify what the center will or will not do to keep infant’s sleep environment safe. I also recommended purchasing a thermometer for infant staff to track the classroom temperature, since it is not permitted to exceed 75f. Bottles were labeled and dated. Documentation of safe sleep checks were monitored documented and current. Cribs were labeled and identified if the infant could roll over on their own. Seven children’s files were monitored for compliance. Seven children did not have annual parental permission to participate in activities outside of the fenced area, like monthly fire drills. The center administrator was asked what the implemented curriculum was used in the center. Ms. Lemons stated the center used The Creative Curriculum. While conducting the walk through of the center classrooms, I asked the teaching staff to show me their Teacher’s Guide Book, if quarterly assessments were completed and if each child had a portfolio. I could not see any charting of the children’s responses. The posted lesson plan stated the theme was love but did not see elements of love throughout the center materials or posted in the classrooms. It was recommended to inquire about training from CCRI with staff. Each classroom should have a Foundations book and Teaching Strategies Teacher’s Guide book. Staff and Training worksheets were provided upon request. There were three new staff hired since the last AC visit conducted in February of 2023. Three staff had printed medicals from their applicable doctor. Staff’s medicals must be on the DCDEE Staff Medical Report form. I asked for the operator to be added to the worksheet to help track her CBC qualification dates. One existing staff file was monitored for compliance and found to meet child care requirements. The center’s EPR plan and RTGF were monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not updated annually in the required electronic template provided by DCDEE. The EPR/RTGF was missing the center’s allergy list, medical plans attached to the child’s application, and an area map. A checklist was emailed during the visit. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored for compliance. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. The path of travel the children take from space #5 was monitored deteriorated with missing railing slats, warped wood with exposed hardware. The side white fence was hanging over with a fallen tree on it. The leaning fence caused the entire fence to lean forward causing an entrapment. Pictures were taken by the administrator. Required protective surfacing did not meet child care requirements of six inches in depth. There were exposed tree roots causing potential tripping hazards to staff and children. There were two gates in the back that would not close properly and were dragging across the ground. The center used one van monitored with current inspection, registration, Progressive insurance (expires 1/9/2025). Children’s emergency information was maintained in the binder, but a photograph of each child transported was not attached to the child’s emergency application. We discussed the fire extinguisher and first aid requirements. It was recommended to add the van driver’s emergency contact information to the transportation binder. The last sanitation inspection was conducted July 19, 2023, with six (6) demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on January 5, 2024. It was highly recommended to begin the annual inspection process 4-6 weeks prior to expiration. The center will be due to complete a three-year reassessment later than July 7, 2025. The last ERS were completed on March 18, 2022. The overall average ERS was 4.89. It was recommended to review any items scored under a 5.0 with staff during staff meetings and pursue any CCRI grant programs to help with child environments and staff training/support. Violation Number Comment Rule 468 When three-year-old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. There were not at least multiple of three of the same toys accessible to them. (spaces #3, 4 and 5). .0510(d)(1) 488 For children under three years of age, materials were not 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. Multiples of three toys per each type of toy were not present in spaces #1 and #2. .0510(e)(3) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The side back fence is in poor repair due to a fallen tree limb. The fence is bowed over and caused an entrapment. The side wooden ramp is in poor condition with rotten wooden railings and exposed hardware, missing slats on railing by 2/3 classroom. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There were several exposed tree roots in the back outdoor learning environment. One of the roots was monitored coming through the mulch. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 826 Gates to the fenced outdoor play area did not remain closed while children occupied the area. Two outdoor gates were monitored dragging on the ground. .0605(i) 832 There was no written emergency medical care (EMC) plan. The center EMC plan was not current. The posted plan listed Shawn Wilson who retired from the Health Department over two years ago. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 891 The safe sleep policy did not contain the required information. The center's posted ITS-SIDS policy was not customized. The sample policy was posted but did not specify what is required in a SIDS policy. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a)(1-8) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. Three new staff hires had medical reports on file but were not completed on the DCDDEE Staff Medical Report form. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 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. Children routinely transported did not have a photograph maintained in the vehicle used to transport them. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. Seven children were monitored without an annual off premises activities form on file. .1005(b)(4) 1794 A Four- or Five- Star program serving four-year-old children was not implementing an approved curriculum. The center administrator stated the Creative Curriculum was implemented. However, there was not one Teacher's Guide on site, no charting of children's responses, or no quarterly assessments. .2802(d) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The Ready to Go File was not current. Children's medical action plans were not attached or maintained with the child's emergency contact information. The center's allergy list and an area map were not monitored maintained in the RTGF. .0607(d)(10) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The center's EPR plan was not updated annually in the DCDEE electronic template. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There were not at least six inches in depth of mulch under and around the stationary play equipment or at the exit points. .0605(k)(1-4) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. Recommendations were made regarding transportation, outdoor environment, outdoor play for infants, CCRI grants, developmentally appropriate activities, health and safety training requirements, CPR/FA requirements. 2. It was recommended to develop quiet activity bags for older children who do not sleep during nap time hours. 3. It was recommended to develop and alter children’s daily outdoor times to reflect the season. The center’s daily schedule should reflect the change to the time-of-day children go outside, weather permitting. 4. It was recommended to work towards the staff obtaining training on the selected curriculum. 5. 10A NCAC 09 .0606 SAFE SLEEP PRACTICES (a) Each center licensed to care for infants aged 12 months or younger shall develop, adopt, and comply with a written safe sleep policy that: (1) specifies that caregivers shall place infants aged 12 months or younger on their backs for sleeping, unless: (A) for an infant aged six months or less, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional; or (B) for an infant older than six months, the center receives a written waiver of this requirement from a health care professional, or a parent or a legal guardian; (2) specifies no pillows, wedges or other positioners, pillow-like toys, blankets, toys, bumper pads, quilts, sheepskins, loose bedding, towels and washcloths, or other objects may be placed with a sleeping infant aged 12 months or younger; (3) specifies that children shall not be swaddled; (4) specifies that nothing shall be placed over the head or face of an infant aged 12 months or younger when the infant is laid down to sleep; (5) specifies that the temperature in the room where infants aged 12 months or younger are sleeping does not exceed 75° F; (6) specifies that caregivers shall visually check, in person, sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger at least every 15 minutes; (7) specifies how caregivers shall document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger; (8) specifies that pacifiers that attach to infant clothing shall not be used with sleeping infants; (9) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger sleep alone in a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; (10) specifies that infants aged 12 months or younger are prohibited from sleeping in sitting devices, including car safety seats, strollers, swings, and infant carriers. Infants that fall asleep in sitting devices shall be moved to a crib, bassinet, play pen, mat, or cot; and (11) specifies any other steps the center shall take to provide a safe sleep environment for infants aged 12 months or younger. (b) The center shall post a copy of its safe sleep policy about infant safe sleep practices in a prominent place in the infant room where parents and caregivers are able to view daily. (c) A copy of the center's safe sleep policy shall be given and explained to the parents of an infant aged 12 months or younger on or before the first day the infant attends the center. The parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the policy. The acknowledgement shall contain: (1) the infant's name; (2) the date the infant first attended the center; (3) the date the center's safe sleep policy was given and explained to the parent; and (4) the date the parent signed the acknowledgement. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (d) If a center amends its safe sleep policy, it shall give written notice of the amendment to the parents of all enrolled infants aged 12 months or younger at least 14 days before the amended policy is implemented. Each parent shall sign a statement acknowledging the receipt and explanation of the amendment. The center shall retain the acknowledgement in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (e) A caregiver shall place a child age 12 months or younger on the child's back for sleeping, unless for a child age 6 months or younger, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional; or for a child older than 6 months, the operator obtains a written waiver from a health care professional or parent. Waivers shall include the following: (1) the infant's name and birth date; (2) the signature and date of the infant's health care professional or parent; (3) if a wedge is needed specify why it is needed and how it is to be used; and (4) the infant's authorized sleep positions. The center shall retain the waiver in the child's record as long as the child is enrolled at the center. (f) For each infant with a waiver on file at the center as specified in Paragraph (e) of this Rule, a notice shall be posted for quick reference near the infant's crib, bassinet, play pen, cot or mat that shall include: (1) the infant's name; (2) the infant's authorized sleep position; and (3) the location of the signed waiver. No confidential medical information, including an infant's medical diagnosis, shall be shown on the notice. (g) Documents that verify staff member's compliance with visual checks on infants shall be maintained for a minimum of one month. (h) A bed, crib, or cot, equipped with a firm waterproof mattress at least four inches thick and a fitted sheet shall be provided for each child who remains in the center after midnight. The top of bunk beds shall be used by school-age children only. (i) A caregiver shall not place anything over the face of a child during rest time. 5. SECTION .1000 - TRANSPORTATION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .1001 SEAT AND CHILD SAFETY SEATS IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) When children enrolled in a child care center are being transported, each adult and child shall be restrained with an individual seat belt or child safety seat appropriate to the child’s age or weight in accordance with G.S. 20-135.2A located at http://www.buckleupnc.org/occupant-restraint-laws/seat-belt-law-summary/. (b) Only one person shall occupy each seat belt or child safety seat. 10A NCAC 09 .1002 SAFE VEHICLES (a) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall be free of hazards such as, but not limited to, torn upholstery that allows children to remove the interior padding, broken windows, holes in the floor or roof, or tire treads of less than 2/32 of an inch. (b) Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in child care centers shall comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. (c) Vehicles shall be insured for liability as required by State laws governing transportation of passengers pursuant to G.S. 20-279.21. (d) Vehicles used to transport children in snowy, icy, and other hazardous weather conditions must be equipped with snow tires or chains as appropriate. 10A NCAC 09 .1003 SAFE PROCEDURES (a) The driver or other staff member in the vehicle shall ensure that all children are transferred to an individual who is indicated on the child's application as specified in Rule .0801(a)(7) of this Chapter or as authorized by the parent. (b) Each center shall establish procedures for pick-up and delivery of children to ensure children are protected from danger and not exposed to risk of harm. These procedures shall be communicated to parents, and a copy shall be posted in the center where they can be seen by the parents. (c) A First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be located in each vehicle used to transport children. The First Aid kit and fire extinguisher shall be mounted or secured if kept in the passenger compartment. (d) 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 by Rule .0802(c) of this Chapter, shall be in the vehicle. (e) The driver shall: (1) be 21 years old or a licensed bus driver; (2) have a valid driver's license of the type required under North Carolina Motor Vehicle Law for the vehicle being driven or comparable license from the state in which the driver resides; and (3) have no convictions of Driving While Impaired (DWI) or any other impaired driving offense within the previous three years. (f) Each person in the vehicle shall be seated in the manufacturer's designated areas. No child shall ride in the load carrying area or floor of a vehicle. (g) Children shall not be left in a vehicle unattended by an adult. (h) Children shall be loaded and unloaded from curbside or in a safe, off-street area, out of the flow of traffic, so that they are protected from all traffic hazards. (i) Before children are transported, written permission from a parent shall be obtained that shall include when and where the child is to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. (j) Parents may give standing permission, valid for up to 12 months, for transport of children to and from the center not including off premise activities as described in Rule .1005 of this Section. (k) When children are transported, staff in each vehicle shall have a functioning cellular telephone or other functioning two-way voice communication device. Staff shall not use cellular telephones or other functioning two-way voice communication devices except in the case of an emergency and only when the vehicle is parked in a safe location. (l) For routine transport of children to and from the center, staff shall have a list of the children being transported. Staff members shall use this list to document attendance as children board the vehicle and as they depart the vehicle. A list of all children being transported shall also be available at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .1004 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS (a) When children aged two years and older are being transported, the staff/child ratios required for compliance with child care center rules as set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter shall apply. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. (b) When three or more children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver shall not be counted in the staff/child ratio. (c) When less than three children under the age of two years are being transported, the staff/child ratio requirements for child care centers set forth in Rule .0713 of this Chapter for children under age two shall be maintained. The driver may be counted in the staff/child ratio. 10A NCAC 09 .1005 OFF PREMISE ACTIVITIES IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) Off premise activities refer to any activity that takes place away from a child care center’s licensed and approved space. Licensed and approved space includes "primary space" as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1401(a), outdoor space as described in 10A NCAC 09 .1402, single use rooms, or other administrative areas. (b) When children participate in off premise activities the following shall apply: (1) Children under the age of three shall not participate in off premise activities that involve children being transported in a motor vehicle. (2) When children are transported in a motor vehicle for off premise activities, the provisions in Rule .1003(c) through (i) and (k) of this Chapter shall apply. (3) Before staff members walk children off premises for play or outings, the center shall obtain written permission from the parent of each child to be included in such activities. (4) Parents may provide a written statement giving standing permission which may be valid for up to 12 months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis. (5) The center shall post a schedule of off premise activities in each participating classroom where it can be viewed by parents, and a copy shall be given to parents. The schedule shall be current and shall include the: (A) location of the activity; (B) purpose of the activity; (C) time the activity will take place; (D) date of the activity; and (E) name of the person(s) to be contacted in the event of an emergency. (6) Each time that children are taken off the premises, staff shall take a list of the children participating in the activity with them. Staff members shall use this list to check attendance when leaving the center, periodically when the children are involved in the activity, before leaving the activity to return to the child care center, and upon return to the center. A list of all children participating in the off premise activity shall also be available at the center. (c) The provisions of Subparagraphs (b)(1) and (5) of this Rule shall be waived to implement any child's Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or Individualized Education Program (IEP). Corrective Action Plan: All violations must be corrected immediately. You shall submit a written, signed, and dated statement/compliance letter to me, at the address below detailing how each violation has been corrected and when. This information shall be received by Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Mail written documentation to Mara Brinton, 7870 Woodmere Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time-period. If you have any questions, please contact Mara Brinton at 704-594-0140 or email mara.brinton@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 .0102 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/18/2023 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 7/18/2023 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 09:55 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s Routine Unannounced visit was to monitor for applicable child care requirements. The facility currently has a Four Star Rated License with an effective date of July 7, 2022. The facility’s 18-month compliance history before today’s visit was 93%. The facility license and NC Summary of the Child Care Law was prominently posted. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the Director, D. Lemon. I stated the reason for the visit. A walk through of the facility was conducted with the Director. Children were observed participating in personal care routines, transitions, teacher directed activities and lunch. Lunch consisted of chicken nuggets, corn, peaches, bread, and milk. Staff were observed assisting children with personal care routines and supervising activities. The following items were monitored during today’s visit, supervision, staff/child ratio, first aid, CPR, special training, criminal background checks, ITS-SIDS training, emergency medical care plan, administering of medication, storage of hazardous products, storage of medication, general safety, discipline, adequate/approved space, program records, license posted, permit restrictions. The Staff and Training Worksheets were reviewed to confirm existing staff were current with CPR, First Aid, ITS-SIDS training, BSAC and criminal background qualifying letters. One new staff member has been hired since the annual compliance visit conducted on February 9, 2023. The file for the new staff member was monitored today. There was also a substitute present today from a sister school. The substitute’s file was also monitored. The last approved fire inspection was conducted January 9, 2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on November 18, 2022, with eight demerits and a Superior rating. A fire drill was conducted on June 9, 2023. The last documented shelter-in-place drill or lockdown drill was conducted on March 8, 2023. Outdoor inspections were also monitored and occurring monthly as required. There were two violations cited today. 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 was not in a container that was labeled or accompanied by written instructions from the prescribing doctor or health care professional. .0803(2)(a) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. A lockdown drill was last conducted March 8, 2023. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Technical Assistance: A conversation was held with the Director regarding the violations cited. Below is the rule reference for each violation. 10A NCAC 09 .0302 APPLICATION FOR A LICENSE FOR A CHILD CARE CENTER (8) records of lockdown or shelter-in-place drills as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102, giving the date each drill was held, the time of day, the length of time taken to get into designated locations and the signature of the person who conducted the drill. A copy of the form may be found on the Division's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/pdf_forms/EPR_EmergencyDrillLog_Centers.pdf; and 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (u) A "shelter in place drill" or "lockdown drill" as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102 shall be conducted at least every three months and records shall be maintained as required by 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(8). 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (2) Prescribed medications: (a) shall be stored in the original containers in which they were dispensed with the pharmacy labels; (b) if pharmaceutical samples, shall be stored in the manufacturer's original packaging, shall be labeled with the child's name, and shall be accompanied by written instructions specifying: (i) the child's name; (ii) the names of the medication; (iii) the amount and frequency of dosage; (iv) the signature of the prescribing physician or other health professional; and (v) the date the instructions were signed by the physician or other health professional; (c) shall be administered only to the child for whom they were prescribed; and (d) shall be administered according to the prescription, using amount and frequency of dosage specified on the label. Violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be mailed or emailed to me by August 1, 2023. The letter of compliance must describe how and when the violations were corrected. The letter must be mailed to Kaye Dunlap, 3109 Wyntree Court, Matthews, NC, 28104 or emailed to Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov. If a letter is not received by the required date another visit will be conducted to confirm the violations were corrected. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@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 .0302 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/18/2023 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 7/18/2023 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 09:55 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s Routine Unannounced visit was to monitor for applicable child care requirements. The facility currently has a Four Star Rated License with an effective date of July 7, 2022. The facility’s 18-month compliance history before today’s visit was 93%. The facility license and NC Summary of the Child Care Law was prominently posted. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the Director, D. Lemon. I stated the reason for the visit. A walk through of the facility was conducted with the Director. Children were observed participating in personal care routines, transitions, teacher directed activities and lunch. Lunch consisted of chicken nuggets, corn, peaches, bread, and milk. Staff were observed assisting children with personal care routines and supervising activities. The following items were monitored during today’s visit, supervision, staff/child ratio, first aid, CPR, special training, criminal background checks, ITS-SIDS training, emergency medical care plan, administering of medication, storage of hazardous products, storage of medication, general safety, discipline, adequate/approved space, program records, license posted, permit restrictions. The Staff and Training Worksheets were reviewed to confirm existing staff were current with CPR, First Aid, ITS-SIDS training, BSAC and criminal background qualifying letters. One new staff member has been hired since the annual compliance visit conducted on February 9, 2023. The file for the new staff member was monitored today. There was also a substitute present today from a sister school. The substitute’s file was also monitored. The last approved fire inspection was conducted January 9, 2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on November 18, 2022, with eight demerits and a Superior rating. A fire drill was conducted on June 9, 2023. The last documented shelter-in-place drill or lockdown drill was conducted on March 8, 2023. Outdoor inspections were also monitored and occurring monthly as required. There were two violations cited today. 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 was not in a container that was labeled or accompanied by written instructions from the prescribing doctor or health care professional. .0803(2)(a) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. A lockdown drill was last conducted March 8, 2023. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Technical Assistance: A conversation was held with the Director regarding the violations cited. Below is the rule reference for each violation. 10A NCAC 09 .0302 APPLICATION FOR A LICENSE FOR A CHILD CARE CENTER (8) records of lockdown or shelter-in-place drills as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102, giving the date each drill was held, the time of day, the length of time taken to get into designated locations and the signature of the person who conducted the drill. A copy of the form may be found on the Division's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/pdf_forms/EPR_EmergencyDrillLog_Centers.pdf; and 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (u) A "shelter in place drill" or "lockdown drill" as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102 shall be conducted at least every three months and records shall be maintained as required by 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(8). 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (2) Prescribed medications: (a) shall be stored in the original containers in which they were dispensed with the pharmacy labels; (b) if pharmaceutical samples, shall be stored in the manufacturer's original packaging, shall be labeled with the child's name, and shall be accompanied by written instructions specifying: (i) the child's name; (ii) the names of the medication; (iii) the amount and frequency of dosage; (iv) the signature of the prescribing physician or other health professional; and (v) the date the instructions were signed by the physician or other health professional; (c) shall be administered only to the child for whom they were prescribed; and (d) shall be administered according to the prescription, using amount and frequency of dosage specified on the label. Violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be mailed or emailed to me by August 1, 2023. The letter of compliance must describe how and when the violations were corrected. The letter must be mailed to Kaye Dunlap, 3109 Wyntree Court, Matthews, NC, 28104 or emailed to Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov. If a letter is not received by the required date another visit will be conducted to confirm the violations were corrected. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@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 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/18/2023 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 7/18/2023 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 09:55 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s Routine Unannounced visit was to monitor for applicable child care requirements. The facility currently has a Four Star Rated License with an effective date of July 7, 2022. The facility’s 18-month compliance history before today’s visit was 93%. The facility license and NC Summary of the Child Care Law was prominently posted. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the Director, D. Lemon. I stated the reason for the visit. A walk through of the facility was conducted with the Director. Children were observed participating in personal care routines, transitions, teacher directed activities and lunch. Lunch consisted of chicken nuggets, corn, peaches, bread, and milk. Staff were observed assisting children with personal care routines and supervising activities. The following items were monitored during today’s visit, supervision, staff/child ratio, first aid, CPR, special training, criminal background checks, ITS-SIDS training, emergency medical care plan, administering of medication, storage of hazardous products, storage of medication, general safety, discipline, adequate/approved space, program records, license posted, permit restrictions. The Staff and Training Worksheets were reviewed to confirm existing staff were current with CPR, First Aid, ITS-SIDS training, BSAC and criminal background qualifying letters. One new staff member has been hired since the annual compliance visit conducted on February 9, 2023. The file for the new staff member was monitored today. There was also a substitute present today from a sister school. The substitute’s file was also monitored. The last approved fire inspection was conducted January 9, 2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on November 18, 2022, with eight demerits and a Superior rating. A fire drill was conducted on June 9, 2023. The last documented shelter-in-place drill or lockdown drill was conducted on March 8, 2023. Outdoor inspections were also monitored and occurring monthly as required. There were two violations cited today. 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 was not in a container that was labeled or accompanied by written instructions from the prescribing doctor or health care professional. .0803(2)(a) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. A lockdown drill was last conducted March 8, 2023. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Technical Assistance: A conversation was held with the Director regarding the violations cited. Below is the rule reference for each violation. 10A NCAC 09 .0302 APPLICATION FOR A LICENSE FOR A CHILD CARE CENTER (8) records of lockdown or shelter-in-place drills as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102, giving the date each drill was held, the time of day, the length of time taken to get into designated locations and the signature of the person who conducted the drill. A copy of the form may be found on the Division's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/pdf_forms/EPR_EmergencyDrillLog_Centers.pdf; and 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (u) A "shelter in place drill" or "lockdown drill" as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102 shall be conducted at least every three months and records shall be maintained as required by 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(8). 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (2) Prescribed medications: (a) shall be stored in the original containers in which they were dispensed with the pharmacy labels; (b) if pharmaceutical samples, shall be stored in the manufacturer's original packaging, shall be labeled with the child's name, and shall be accompanied by written instructions specifying: (i) the child's name; (ii) the names of the medication; (iii) the amount and frequency of dosage; (iv) the signature of the prescribing physician or other health professional; and (v) the date the instructions were signed by the physician or other health professional; (c) shall be administered only to the child for whom they were prescribed; and (d) shall be administered according to the prescription, using amount and frequency of dosage specified on the label. Violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be mailed or emailed to me by August 1, 2023. The letter of compliance must describe how and when the violations were corrected. The letter must be mailed to Kaye Dunlap, 3109 Wyntree Court, Matthews, NC, 28104 or emailed to Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov. If a letter is not received by the required date another visit will be conducted to confirm the violations were corrected. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@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 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: BEGINNING YEARS DAYCARE # 3 Facility ID: 60003580 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/18/2023 Number Present: 44 Completed Date: 7/18/2023 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 140 Time In: 09:55 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s Routine Unannounced visit was to monitor for applicable child care requirements. The facility currently has a Four Star Rated License with an effective date of July 7, 2022. The facility’s 18-month compliance history before today’s visit was 93%. The facility license and NC Summary of the Child Care Law was prominently posted. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the Director, D. Lemon. I stated the reason for the visit. A walk through of the facility was conducted with the Director. Children were observed participating in personal care routines, transitions, teacher directed activities and lunch. Lunch consisted of chicken nuggets, corn, peaches, bread, and milk. Staff were observed assisting children with personal care routines and supervising activities. The following items were monitored during today’s visit, supervision, staff/child ratio, first aid, CPR, special training, criminal background checks, ITS-SIDS training, emergency medical care plan, administering of medication, storage of hazardous products, storage of medication, general safety, discipline, adequate/approved space, program records, license posted, permit restrictions. The Staff and Training Worksheets were reviewed to confirm existing staff were current with CPR, First Aid, ITS-SIDS training, BSAC and criminal background qualifying letters. One new staff member has been hired since the annual compliance visit conducted on February 9, 2023. The file for the new staff member was monitored today. There was also a substitute present today from a sister school. The substitute’s file was also monitored. The last approved fire inspection was conducted January 9, 2023. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on November 18, 2022, with eight demerits and a Superior rating. A fire drill was conducted on June 9, 2023. The last documented shelter-in-place drill or lockdown drill was conducted on March 8, 2023. Outdoor inspections were also monitored and occurring monthly as required. There were two violations cited today. 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 was not in a container that was labeled or accompanied by written instructions from the prescribing doctor or health care professional. .0803(2)(a) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. A lockdown drill was last conducted March 8, 2023. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) Technical Assistance: A conversation was held with the Director regarding the violations cited. Below is the rule reference for each violation. 10A NCAC 09 .0302 APPLICATION FOR A LICENSE FOR A CHILD CARE CENTER (8) records of lockdown or shelter-in-place drills as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102, giving the date each drill was held, the time of day, the length of time taken to get into designated locations and the signature of the person who conducted the drill. A copy of the form may be found on the Division's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/pdf_forms/EPR_EmergencyDrillLog_Centers.pdf; and 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (u) A "shelter in place drill" or "lockdown drill" as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102 shall be conducted at least every three months and records shall be maintained as required by 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(8). 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (2) Prescribed medications: (a) shall be stored in the original containers in which they were dispensed with the pharmacy labels; (b) if pharmaceutical samples, shall be stored in the manufacturer's original packaging, shall be labeled with the child's name, and shall be accompanied by written instructions specifying: (i) the child's name; (ii) the names of the medication; (iii) the amount and frequency of dosage; (iv) the signature of the prescribing physician or other health professional; and (v) the date the instructions were signed by the physician or other health professional; (c) shall be administered only to the child for whom they were prescribed; and (d) shall be administered according to the prescription, using amount and frequency of dosage specified on the label. Violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be mailed or emailed to me by August 1, 2023. The letter of compliance must describe how and when the violations were corrected. The letter must be mailed to Kaye Dunlap, 3109 Wyntree Court, Matthews, NC, 28104 or emailed to Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov. If a letter is not received by the required date another visit will be conducted to confirm the violations were corrected. Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@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