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Home › NC › Charlotte › First Stop Daycare
3426 Central Avenue, Charlotte NC 28205 · License #60003956 · Center · Child Care Center
Not published by the state. Owners can add hours via profile claim.
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10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation
Name of Operation: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/18/2026 Number Present: 5 Completed Date: 2/18/2026 Age: From 2 To 3 Total Minutes: 335 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 03:20 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. The three-star licensed child care center continued to meet voluntary enhanced ratios and space requirements. Upon arrival at the center, I knocked at the back classroom doors off the ramp. No one answered the door and I was able to open the door to space #3 without anyone in the building’s awareness of access to the center. A volunteer was identified in space #2 with five children present ranging in age from two to three years of age. The operator was in the office. The operator’s daughter who has a medical condition was identified as sleeping in the operator’s car in the drive way. We discussed the previous acceptable plan for the operator if the daughter’s aide is not available and the other two staff were not available or scheduled to work. The operator was supposed to close the center for the day. The operator stated she was struggling with operating the facility and had to remain open due to finances. A volunteer checklist was emailed to the operator during the visit and the information on file for the volunteer was monitored. An annual health questionnaire and emergency information form were not current. Both forms were updated during the visit. Since the volunteer had only begun helping today, a TB test was not required. It was recommended to have the volunteer (L. Nixon) obtain everything as a new employee. Ms. Nixon was a former employee, had a current DCDEE CBC letter printed and on file. 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 #1-3, kitchen and outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. The posted lunch menu for today was not modified or updated on the posted menu. Children were served spaghetti and meatballs, with apple sauce, green beans, wheat bread and milk. Infant and toddler rooms did not have a dirty toy bin or any dirty toys in a bin in either spaces #2 or #3. A weekly cleaning checklist was provided and recommended to post in the applicable classrooms to help staff with accountability of cleaning. In space #1 and #2 had books in poor repair. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. Protective surfacing requirements were not met with at least six inches of mulch. No children were identified with a medical condition that requires medication, or medical action plan. The posted allergy list stated no allergies. the parents who sent the emailed information. site. Children were monitored engaged in free play, diapering, eating lunch, and napping time. Staff and Training worksheets were updated and submitted to me prior to the visit, and there were not any new staff hired since the last visit completed August 18, 2025 (last RU). There were three existing staff. Three existing staff members’ files were monitored for compliance. (A. Lucas, L. Clack and S. Blackwell) The operator and one staff member did not provide documentation of training for 2025. L. Clack did not complete the five-year renewal of health and safety training by January 29, 2026. The ABCMS roster report was run prior to the visit and verified by reviewing the staff and training worksheets with S. Blackwell. There were fourteen (14) children enrolled. Two (2) children’s files were monitored for compliance and found to meet child care requirements. Documentation for quarterly safety drills, monthly fire drills, playground inspections and center incident log were monitored for compliance. Monthly playground inspections from September 2025 to December 2025 were not made available or completed. The center’s EPR plan and Ready to Go File were monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was current. The Ready to Go File was missing one enrolled child’s emergency contact information and blank incident reports. During the visit, Ms. Blackwell updated the missing information and placed blank incident reports in the file. Lesson plans were monitored, posted, current and developmentally appropriate. The center does not provide transportation to children. The last sanitation inspection completed was dated August 20, 2025, with seventeen (17) demerits cited and an Approved classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed February 21, 2025. It was highly recommended to begin your annual inspection process four to six weeks prior to expiration. Ms. Lucas stated she was waiting for the inspector to email the DCDEE fire inspection report. Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. There were five children present and only one child was monitored with a tracked arrival time for today. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The food served for lunch was not listed on the posted menu. Children were served spaghetti, meatballs, green beans, apple sauce, wheat bread and milk. The following was listed on the posted menu: green beans, apples, chicken thighs, wheat bread and milk. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. There was not a dirty toy bin maintained or any mouthed toys that were removed from the children's environment in space #2. .2822(a)(1-4) 707 Equipment and furnishings not meeting the requirements outlined in child care .0601(b) and (c) were not removed or made inaccessible. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #1 and #2. .0601(d) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The emergency exit door located in the back of the child care center on space #3 was unlocked. The consultant entered the space without the operator, and one volunteer's awareness of another adult entering the building. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There was garbage monitored on the child care ramp, parking lot and on the ground surrounding the back of the child care center. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Playground inspections from September 2025 until December 2025 were not available for review. .0605(q) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. A volunteer present for one day did not have a health questionnaire completed and on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One volunteer present for one day did not have a signed emergency information form completed before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. The operator and one staff member did not have training on file showing eight (8) and ten (10) hours of annual in-service training hours were completed. .1103(a) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Daily attendance was not accurately tracked for today. GS 110-91(9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. A volunteer was left alone with five children ranging in age from two to three years of age in space #2 while the administrator was in the office. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The RTGF was missing one enrolled child's emergency information, and blank incident reports. .0607(d)(10) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There was inadequate mulch under and around the stationary outdoor equipment. There were approximately three inches of protective surfacing present when six inches of mulch was required. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 was due to renew their H & S training no later than January 29, 2026. .1103(b) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. The two choices of pathways for a star rating were reviewed with Ms. Lucas and Ms. Blackwell. 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 three-and four-star ratings were reviewed with the administration. Pathway #1 and the Pathway to the Stars document were completed to document the discussion. The three-month self-study QR code was provided in email prior to the visit. It was recommended to enroll and work with CCRI’s “Quality Every Day” and have a community assessment via NCRLAP. 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. 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, March 4, 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
Generated from this facility's specific inspection record
Data synced from North Carolina's child care licensing agency on Jul 9, 2026 · Report an error
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0901 · Violation
Name of Operation: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/18/2026 Number Present: 5 Completed Date: 2/18/2026 Age: From 2 To 3 Total Minutes: 335 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 03:20 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. The three-star licensed child care center continued to meet voluntary enhanced ratios and space requirements. Upon arrival at the center, I knocked at the back classroom doors off the ramp. No one answered the door and I was able to open the door to space #3 without anyone in the building’s awareness of access to the center. A volunteer was identified in space #2 with five children present ranging in age from two to three years of age. The operator was in the office. The operator’s daughter who has a medical condition was identified as sleeping in the operator’s car in the drive way. We discussed the previous acceptable plan for the operator if the daughter’s aide is not available and the other two staff were not available or scheduled to work. The operator was supposed to close the center for the day. The operator stated she was struggling with operating the facility and had to remain open due to finances. A volunteer checklist was emailed to the operator during the visit and the information on file for the volunteer was monitored. An annual health questionnaire and emergency information form were not current. Both forms were updated during the visit. Since the volunteer had only begun helping today, a TB test was not required. It was recommended to have the volunteer (L. Nixon) obtain everything as a new employee. Ms. Nixon was a former employee, had a current DCDEE CBC letter printed and on file. 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 #1-3, kitchen and outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. The posted lunch menu for today was not modified or updated on the posted menu. Children were served spaghetti and meatballs, with apple sauce, green beans, wheat bread and milk. Infant and toddler rooms did not have a dirty toy bin or any dirty toys in a bin in either spaces #2 or #3. A weekly cleaning checklist was provided and recommended to post in the applicable classrooms to help staff with accountability of cleaning. In space #1 and #2 had books in poor repair. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. Protective surfacing requirements were not met with at least six inches of mulch. No children were identified with a medical condition that requires medication, or medical action plan. The posted allergy list stated no allergies. the parents who sent the emailed information. site. Children were monitored engaged in free play, diapering, eating lunch, and napping time. Staff and Training worksheets were updated and submitted to me prior to the visit, and there were not any new staff hired since the last visit completed August 18, 2025 (last RU). There were three existing staff. Three existing staff members’ files were monitored for compliance. (A. Lucas, L. Clack and S. Blackwell) The operator and one staff member did not provide documentation of training for 2025. L. Clack did not complete the five-year renewal of health and safety training by January 29, 2026. The ABCMS roster report was run prior to the visit and verified by reviewing the staff and training worksheets with S. Blackwell. There were fourteen (14) children enrolled. Two (2) children’s files were monitored for compliance and found to meet child care requirements. Documentation for quarterly safety drills, monthly fire drills, playground inspections and center incident log were monitored for compliance. Monthly playground inspections from September 2025 to December 2025 were not made available or completed. The center’s EPR plan and Ready to Go File were monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was current. The Ready to Go File was missing one enrolled child’s emergency contact information and blank incident reports. During the visit, Ms. Blackwell updated the missing information and placed blank incident reports in the file. Lesson plans were monitored, posted, current and developmentally appropriate. The center does not provide transportation to children. The last sanitation inspection completed was dated August 20, 2025, with seventeen (17) demerits cited and an Approved classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed February 21, 2025. It was highly recommended to begin your annual inspection process four to six weeks prior to expiration. Ms. Lucas stated she was waiting for the inspector to email the DCDEE fire inspection report. Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. There were five children present and only one child was monitored with a tracked arrival time for today. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The food served for lunch was not listed on the posted menu. Children were served spaghetti, meatballs, green beans, apple sauce, wheat bread and milk. The following was listed on the posted menu: green beans, apples, chicken thighs, wheat bread and milk. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. There was not a dirty toy bin maintained or any mouthed toys that were removed from the children's environment in space #2. .2822(a)(1-4) 707 Equipment and furnishings not meeting the requirements outlined in child care .0601(b) and (c) were not removed or made inaccessible. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #1 and #2. .0601(d) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The emergency exit door located in the back of the child care center on space #3 was unlocked. The consultant entered the space without the operator, and one volunteer's awareness of another adult entering the building. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There was garbage monitored on the child care ramp, parking lot and on the ground surrounding the back of the child care center. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Playground inspections from September 2025 until December 2025 were not available for review. .0605(q) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. A volunteer present for one day did not have a health questionnaire completed and on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One volunteer present for one day did not have a signed emergency information form completed before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. The operator and one staff member did not have training on file showing eight (8) and ten (10) hours of annual in-service training hours were completed. .1103(a) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Daily attendance was not accurately tracked for today. GS 110-91(9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. A volunteer was left alone with five children ranging in age from two to three years of age in space #2 while the administrator was in the office. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The RTGF was missing one enrolled child's emergency information, and blank incident reports. .0607(d)(10) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There was inadequate mulch under and around the stationary outdoor equipment. There were approximately three inches of protective surfacing present when six inches of mulch was required. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 was due to renew their H & S training no later than January 29, 2026. .1103(b) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. The two choices of pathways for a star rating were reviewed with Ms. Lucas and Ms. Blackwell. 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 three-and four-star ratings were reviewed with the administration. Pathway #1 and the Pathway to the Stars document were completed to document the discussion. The three-month self-study QR code was provided in email prior to the visit. It was recommended to enroll and work with CCRI’s “Quality Every Day” and have a community assessment via NCRLAP. 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. 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, March 4, 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0302 · Violation
Name of Operation: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/18/2026 Number Present: 5 Completed Date: 2/18/2026 Age: From 2 To 3 Total Minutes: 335 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 03:20 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. The three-star licensed child care center continued to meet voluntary enhanced ratios and space requirements. Upon arrival at the center, I knocked at the back classroom doors off the ramp. No one answered the door and I was able to open the door to space #3 without anyone in the building’s awareness of access to the center. A volunteer was identified in space #2 with five children present ranging in age from two to three years of age. The operator was in the office. The operator’s daughter who has a medical condition was identified as sleeping in the operator’s car in the drive way. We discussed the previous acceptable plan for the operator if the daughter’s aide is not available and the other two staff were not available or scheduled to work. The operator was supposed to close the center for the day. The operator stated she was struggling with operating the facility and had to remain open due to finances. A volunteer checklist was emailed to the operator during the visit and the information on file for the volunteer was monitored. An annual health questionnaire and emergency information form were not current. Both forms were updated during the visit. Since the volunteer had only begun helping today, a TB test was not required. It was recommended to have the volunteer (L. Nixon) obtain everything as a new employee. Ms. Nixon was a former employee, had a current DCDEE CBC letter printed and on file. 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 #1-3, kitchen and outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. The posted lunch menu for today was not modified or updated on the posted menu. Children were served spaghetti and meatballs, with apple sauce, green beans, wheat bread and milk. Infant and toddler rooms did not have a dirty toy bin or any dirty toys in a bin in either spaces #2 or #3. A weekly cleaning checklist was provided and recommended to post in the applicable classrooms to help staff with accountability of cleaning. In space #1 and #2 had books in poor repair. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. Protective surfacing requirements were not met with at least six inches of mulch. No children were identified with a medical condition that requires medication, or medical action plan. The posted allergy list stated no allergies. the parents who sent the emailed information. site. Children were monitored engaged in free play, diapering, eating lunch, and napping time. Staff and Training worksheets were updated and submitted to me prior to the visit, and there were not any new staff hired since the last visit completed August 18, 2025 (last RU). There were three existing staff. Three existing staff members’ files were monitored for compliance. (A. Lucas, L. Clack and S. Blackwell) The operator and one staff member did not provide documentation of training for 2025. L. Clack did not complete the five-year renewal of health and safety training by January 29, 2026. The ABCMS roster report was run prior to the visit and verified by reviewing the staff and training worksheets with S. Blackwell. There were fourteen (14) children enrolled. Two (2) children’s files were monitored for compliance and found to meet child care requirements. Documentation for quarterly safety drills, monthly fire drills, playground inspections and center incident log were monitored for compliance. Monthly playground inspections from September 2025 to December 2025 were not made available or completed. The center’s EPR plan and Ready to Go File were monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was current. The Ready to Go File was missing one enrolled child’s emergency contact information and blank incident reports. During the visit, Ms. Blackwell updated the missing information and placed blank incident reports in the file. Lesson plans were monitored, posted, current and developmentally appropriate. The center does not provide transportation to children. The last sanitation inspection completed was dated August 20, 2025, with seventeen (17) demerits cited and an Approved classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed February 21, 2025. It was highly recommended to begin your annual inspection process four to six weeks prior to expiration. Ms. Lucas stated she was waiting for the inspector to email the DCDEE fire inspection report. Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. There were five children present and only one child was monitored with a tracked arrival time for today. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The food served for lunch was not listed on the posted menu. Children were served spaghetti, meatballs, green beans, apple sauce, wheat bread and milk. The following was listed on the posted menu: green beans, apples, chicken thighs, wheat bread and milk. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. There was not a dirty toy bin maintained or any mouthed toys that were removed from the children's environment in space #2. .2822(a)(1-4) 707 Equipment and furnishings not meeting the requirements outlined in child care .0601(b) and (c) were not removed or made inaccessible. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #1 and #2. .0601(d) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The emergency exit door located in the back of the child care center on space #3 was unlocked. The consultant entered the space without the operator, and one volunteer's awareness of another adult entering the building. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There was garbage monitored on the child care ramp, parking lot and on the ground surrounding the back of the child care center. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Playground inspections from September 2025 until December 2025 were not available for review. .0605(q) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. A volunteer present for one day did not have a health questionnaire completed and on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One volunteer present for one day did not have a signed emergency information form completed before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. The operator and one staff member did not have training on file showing eight (8) and ten (10) hours of annual in-service training hours were completed. .1103(a) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Daily attendance was not accurately tracked for today. GS 110-91(9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. A volunteer was left alone with five children ranging in age from two to three years of age in space #2 while the administrator was in the office. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The RTGF was missing one enrolled child's emergency information, and blank incident reports. .0607(d)(10) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There was inadequate mulch under and around the stationary outdoor equipment. There were approximately three inches of protective surfacing present when six inches of mulch was required. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 was due to renew their H & S training no later than January 29, 2026. .1103(b) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. The two choices of pathways for a star rating were reviewed with Ms. Lucas and Ms. Blackwell. 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 three-and four-star ratings were reviewed with the administration. Pathway #1 and the Pathway to the Stars document were completed to document the discussion. The three-month self-study QR code was provided in email prior to the visit. It was recommended to enroll and work with CCRI’s “Quality Every Day” and have a community assessment via NCRLAP. 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. 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, March 4, 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .2818 · Violation
Name of Operation: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/18/2026 Number Present: 5 Completed Date: 2/18/2026 Age: From 2 To 3 Total Minutes: 335 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 03:20 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. The three-star licensed child care center continued to meet voluntary enhanced ratios and space requirements. Upon arrival at the center, I knocked at the back classroom doors off the ramp. No one answered the door and I was able to open the door to space #3 without anyone in the building’s awareness of access to the center. A volunteer was identified in space #2 with five children present ranging in age from two to three years of age. The operator was in the office. The operator’s daughter who has a medical condition was identified as sleeping in the operator’s car in the drive way. We discussed the previous acceptable plan for the operator if the daughter’s aide is not available and the other two staff were not available or scheduled to work. The operator was supposed to close the center for the day. The operator stated she was struggling with operating the facility and had to remain open due to finances. A volunteer checklist was emailed to the operator during the visit and the information on file for the volunteer was monitored. An annual health questionnaire and emergency information form were not current. Both forms were updated during the visit. Since the volunteer had only begun helping today, a TB test was not required. It was recommended to have the volunteer (L. Nixon) obtain everything as a new employee. Ms. Nixon was a former employee, had a current DCDEE CBC letter printed and on file. 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 #1-3, kitchen and outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. The posted lunch menu for today was not modified or updated on the posted menu. Children were served spaghetti and meatballs, with apple sauce, green beans, wheat bread and milk. Infant and toddler rooms did not have a dirty toy bin or any dirty toys in a bin in either spaces #2 or #3. A weekly cleaning checklist was provided and recommended to post in the applicable classrooms to help staff with accountability of cleaning. In space #1 and #2 had books in poor repair. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. Protective surfacing requirements were not met with at least six inches of mulch. No children were identified with a medical condition that requires medication, or medical action plan. The posted allergy list stated no allergies. the parents who sent the emailed information. site. Children were monitored engaged in free play, diapering, eating lunch, and napping time. Staff and Training worksheets were updated and submitted to me prior to the visit, and there were not any new staff hired since the last visit completed August 18, 2025 (last RU). There were three existing staff. Three existing staff members’ files were monitored for compliance. (A. Lucas, L. Clack and S. Blackwell) The operator and one staff member did not provide documentation of training for 2025. L. Clack did not complete the five-year renewal of health and safety training by January 29, 2026. The ABCMS roster report was run prior to the visit and verified by reviewing the staff and training worksheets with S. Blackwell. There were fourteen (14) children enrolled. Two (2) children’s files were monitored for compliance and found to meet child care requirements. Documentation for quarterly safety drills, monthly fire drills, playground inspections and center incident log were monitored for compliance. Monthly playground inspections from September 2025 to December 2025 were not made available or completed. The center’s EPR plan and Ready to Go File were monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was current. The Ready to Go File was missing one enrolled child’s emergency contact information and blank incident reports. During the visit, Ms. Blackwell updated the missing information and placed blank incident reports in the file. Lesson plans were monitored, posted, current and developmentally appropriate. The center does not provide transportation to children. The last sanitation inspection completed was dated August 20, 2025, with seventeen (17) demerits cited and an Approved classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed February 21, 2025. It was highly recommended to begin your annual inspection process four to six weeks prior to expiration. Ms. Lucas stated she was waiting for the inspector to email the DCDEE fire inspection report. Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. There were five children present and only one child was monitored with a tracked arrival time for today. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The food served for lunch was not listed on the posted menu. Children were served spaghetti, meatballs, green beans, apple sauce, wheat bread and milk. The following was listed on the posted menu: green beans, apples, chicken thighs, wheat bread and milk. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. There was not a dirty toy bin maintained or any mouthed toys that were removed from the children's environment in space #2. .2822(a)(1-4) 707 Equipment and furnishings not meeting the requirements outlined in child care .0601(b) and (c) were not removed or made inaccessible. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #1 and #2. .0601(d) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The emergency exit door located in the back of the child care center on space #3 was unlocked. The consultant entered the space without the operator, and one volunteer's awareness of another adult entering the building. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There was garbage monitored on the child care ramp, parking lot and on the ground surrounding the back of the child care center. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Playground inspections from September 2025 until December 2025 were not available for review. .0605(q) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. A volunteer present for one day did not have a health questionnaire completed and on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One volunteer present for one day did not have a signed emergency information form completed before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. The operator and one staff member did not have training on file showing eight (8) and ten (10) hours of annual in-service training hours were completed. .1103(a) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Daily attendance was not accurately tracked for today. GS 110-91(9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. A volunteer was left alone with five children ranging in age from two to three years of age in space #2 while the administrator was in the office. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The RTGF was missing one enrolled child's emergency information, and blank incident reports. .0607(d)(10) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There was inadequate mulch under and around the stationary outdoor equipment. There were approximately three inches of protective surfacing present when six inches of mulch was required. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 was due to renew their H & S training no later than January 29, 2026. .1103(b) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. The two choices of pathways for a star rating were reviewed with Ms. Lucas and Ms. Blackwell. 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 three-and four-star ratings were reviewed with the administration. Pathway #1 and the Pathway to the Stars document were completed to document the discussion. The three-month self-study QR code was provided in email prior to the visit. It was recommended to enroll and work with CCRI’s “Quality Every Day” and have a community assessment via NCRLAP. 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. 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, March 4, 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
G.S. 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/18/2026 Number Present: 5 Completed Date: 2/18/2026 Age: From 2 To 3 Total Minutes: 335 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 03:20 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. The three-star licensed child care center continued to meet voluntary enhanced ratios and space requirements. Upon arrival at the center, I knocked at the back classroom doors off the ramp. No one answered the door and I was able to open the door to space #3 without anyone in the building’s awareness of access to the center. A volunteer was identified in space #2 with five children present ranging in age from two to three years of age. The operator was in the office. The operator’s daughter who has a medical condition was identified as sleeping in the operator’s car in the drive way. We discussed the previous acceptable plan for the operator if the daughter’s aide is not available and the other two staff were not available or scheduled to work. The operator was supposed to close the center for the day. The operator stated she was struggling with operating the facility and had to remain open due to finances. A volunteer checklist was emailed to the operator during the visit and the information on file for the volunteer was monitored. An annual health questionnaire and emergency information form were not current. Both forms were updated during the visit. Since the volunteer had only begun helping today, a TB test was not required. It was recommended to have the volunteer (L. Nixon) obtain everything as a new employee. Ms. Nixon was a former employee, had a current DCDEE CBC letter printed and on file. 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 #1-3, kitchen and outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. The posted lunch menu for today was not modified or updated on the posted menu. Children were served spaghetti and meatballs, with apple sauce, green beans, wheat bread and milk. Infant and toddler rooms did not have a dirty toy bin or any dirty toys in a bin in either spaces #2 or #3. A weekly cleaning checklist was provided and recommended to post in the applicable classrooms to help staff with accountability of cleaning. In space #1 and #2 had books in poor repair. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. Protective surfacing requirements were not met with at least six inches of mulch. No children were identified with a medical condition that requires medication, or medical action plan. The posted allergy list stated no allergies. the parents who sent the emailed information. site. Children were monitored engaged in free play, diapering, eating lunch, and napping time. Staff and Training worksheets were updated and submitted to me prior to the visit, and there were not any new staff hired since the last visit completed August 18, 2025 (last RU). There were three existing staff. Three existing staff members’ files were monitored for compliance. (A. Lucas, L. Clack and S. Blackwell) The operator and one staff member did not provide documentation of training for 2025. L. Clack did not complete the five-year renewal of health and safety training by January 29, 2026. The ABCMS roster report was run prior to the visit and verified by reviewing the staff and training worksheets with S. Blackwell. There were fourteen (14) children enrolled. Two (2) children’s files were monitored for compliance and found to meet child care requirements. Documentation for quarterly safety drills, monthly fire drills, playground inspections and center incident log were monitored for compliance. Monthly playground inspections from September 2025 to December 2025 were not made available or completed. The center’s EPR plan and Ready to Go File were monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was current. The Ready to Go File was missing one enrolled child’s emergency contact information and blank incident reports. During the visit, Ms. Blackwell updated the missing information and placed blank incident reports in the file. Lesson plans were monitored, posted, current and developmentally appropriate. The center does not provide transportation to children. The last sanitation inspection completed was dated August 20, 2025, with seventeen (17) demerits cited and an Approved classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed February 21, 2025. It was highly recommended to begin your annual inspection process four to six weeks prior to expiration. Ms. Lucas stated she was waiting for the inspector to email the DCDEE fire inspection report. Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. There were five children present and only one child was monitored with a tracked arrival time for today. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The food served for lunch was not listed on the posted menu. Children were served spaghetti, meatballs, green beans, apple sauce, wheat bread and milk. The following was listed on the posted menu: green beans, apples, chicken thighs, wheat bread and milk. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. There was not a dirty toy bin maintained or any mouthed toys that were removed from the children's environment in space #2. .2822(a)(1-4) 707 Equipment and furnishings not meeting the requirements outlined in child care .0601(b) and (c) were not removed or made inaccessible. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #1 and #2. .0601(d) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The emergency exit door located in the back of the child care center on space #3 was unlocked. The consultant entered the space without the operator, and one volunteer's awareness of another adult entering the building. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There was garbage monitored on the child care ramp, parking lot and on the ground surrounding the back of the child care center. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Playground inspections from September 2025 until December 2025 were not available for review. .0605(q) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. A volunteer present for one day did not have a health questionnaire completed and on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One volunteer present for one day did not have a signed emergency information form completed before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. The operator and one staff member did not have training on file showing eight (8) and ten (10) hours of annual in-service training hours were completed. .1103(a) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Daily attendance was not accurately tracked for today. GS 110-91(9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. A volunteer was left alone with five children ranging in age from two to three years of age in space #2 while the administrator was in the office. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The RTGF was missing one enrolled child's emergency information, and blank incident reports. .0607(d)(10) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There was inadequate mulch under and around the stationary outdoor equipment. There were approximately three inches of protective surfacing present when six inches of mulch was required. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 was due to renew their H & S training no later than January 29, 2026. .1103(b) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. The two choices of pathways for a star rating were reviewed with Ms. Lucas and Ms. Blackwell. 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 three-and four-star ratings were reviewed with the administration. Pathway #1 and the Pathway to the Stars document were completed to document the discussion. The three-month self-study QR code was provided in email prior to the visit. It was recommended to enroll and work with CCRI’s “Quality Every Day” and have a community assessment via NCRLAP. 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. 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, March 4, 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
GS 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/18/2026 Number Present: 5 Completed Date: 2/18/2026 Age: From 2 To 3 Total Minutes: 335 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 03:20 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. The three-star licensed child care center continued to meet voluntary enhanced ratios and space requirements. Upon arrival at the center, I knocked at the back classroom doors off the ramp. No one answered the door and I was able to open the door to space #3 without anyone in the building’s awareness of access to the center. A volunteer was identified in space #2 with five children present ranging in age from two to three years of age. The operator was in the office. The operator’s daughter who has a medical condition was identified as sleeping in the operator’s car in the drive way. We discussed the previous acceptable plan for the operator if the daughter’s aide is not available and the other two staff were not available or scheduled to work. The operator was supposed to close the center for the day. The operator stated she was struggling with operating the facility and had to remain open due to finances. A volunteer checklist was emailed to the operator during the visit and the information on file for the volunteer was monitored. An annual health questionnaire and emergency information form were not current. Both forms were updated during the visit. Since the volunteer had only begun helping today, a TB test was not required. It was recommended to have the volunteer (L. Nixon) obtain everything as a new employee. Ms. Nixon was a former employee, had a current DCDEE CBC letter printed and on file. 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 #1-3, kitchen and outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. The posted lunch menu for today was not modified or updated on the posted menu. Children were served spaghetti and meatballs, with apple sauce, green beans, wheat bread and milk. Infant and toddler rooms did not have a dirty toy bin or any dirty toys in a bin in either spaces #2 or #3. A weekly cleaning checklist was provided and recommended to post in the applicable classrooms to help staff with accountability of cleaning. In space #1 and #2 had books in poor repair. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. Protective surfacing requirements were not met with at least six inches of mulch. No children were identified with a medical condition that requires medication, or medical action plan. The posted allergy list stated no allergies. the parents who sent the emailed information. site. Children were monitored engaged in free play, diapering, eating lunch, and napping time. Staff and Training worksheets were updated and submitted to me prior to the visit, and there were not any new staff hired since the last visit completed August 18, 2025 (last RU). There were three existing staff. Three existing staff members’ files were monitored for compliance. (A. Lucas, L. Clack and S. Blackwell) The operator and one staff member did not provide documentation of training for 2025. L. Clack did not complete the five-year renewal of health and safety training by January 29, 2026. The ABCMS roster report was run prior to the visit and verified by reviewing the staff and training worksheets with S. Blackwell. There were fourteen (14) children enrolled. Two (2) children’s files were monitored for compliance and found to meet child care requirements. Documentation for quarterly safety drills, monthly fire drills, playground inspections and center incident log were monitored for compliance. Monthly playground inspections from September 2025 to December 2025 were not made available or completed. The center’s EPR plan and Ready to Go File were monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was current. The Ready to Go File was missing one enrolled child’s emergency contact information and blank incident reports. During the visit, Ms. Blackwell updated the missing information and placed blank incident reports in the file. Lesson plans were monitored, posted, current and developmentally appropriate. The center does not provide transportation to children. The last sanitation inspection completed was dated August 20, 2025, with seventeen (17) demerits cited and an Approved classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed February 21, 2025. It was highly recommended to begin your annual inspection process four to six weeks prior to expiration. Ms. Lucas stated she was waiting for the inspector to email the DCDEE fire inspection report. Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. There were five children present and only one child was monitored with a tracked arrival time for today. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The food served for lunch was not listed on the posted menu. Children were served spaghetti, meatballs, green beans, apple sauce, wheat bread and milk. The following was listed on the posted menu: green beans, apples, chicken thighs, wheat bread and milk. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. There was not a dirty toy bin maintained or any mouthed toys that were removed from the children's environment in space #2. .2822(a)(1-4) 707 Equipment and furnishings not meeting the requirements outlined in child care .0601(b) and (c) were not removed or made inaccessible. Books were monitored in poor repair in spaces #1 and #2. .0601(d) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The emergency exit door located in the back of the child care center on space #3 was unlocked. The consultant entered the space without the operator, and one volunteer's awareness of another adult entering the building. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There was garbage monitored on the child care ramp, parking lot and on the ground surrounding the back of the child care center. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. Playground inspections from September 2025 until December 2025 were not available for review. .0605(q) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. A volunteer present for one day did not have a health questionnaire completed and on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One volunteer present for one day did not have a signed emergency information form completed before the first day of work. .0701(a) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. The operator and one staff member did not have training on file showing eight (8) and ten (10) hours of annual in-service training hours were completed. .1103(a) 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. Daily attendance was not accurately tracked for today. GS 110-91(9) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. A volunteer was left alone with five children ranging in age from two to three years of age in space #2 while the administrator was in the office. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The RTGF was missing one enrolled child's emergency information, and blank incident reports. .0607(d)(10) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. There was inadequate mulch under and around the stationary outdoor equipment. There were approximately three inches of protective surfacing present when six inches of mulch was required. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 was due to renew their H & S training no later than January 29, 2026. .1103(b) Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. The two choices of pathways for a star rating were reviewed with Ms. Lucas and Ms. Blackwell. 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 three-and four-star ratings were reviewed with the administration. Pathway #1 and the Pathway to the Stars document were completed to document the discussion. The three-month self-study QR code was provided in email prior to the visit. It was recommended to enroll and work with CCRI’s “Quality Every Day” and have a community assessment via NCRLAP. 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. 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, March 4, 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .0901 · Violation
Name of Operation: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/18/2025 Number Present: 7 Completed Date: 8/18/2025 Age: From 1 To 10 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements during a Routine Unannounced Visit. The three-star licensed center continued to operate meeting enhanced ratios and space. Ms. Blackwell was observed outside with four children ranging in age from one to two years of age. The playground gate was observed partially open. Annette Lucas, operator, was present and working in the facility. The child care item 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 # 1-3, kitchen, and the outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. The center does not provide transportation to children currently. We discussed transportation and it was highly recommended to hire a van driver vs. Ms. Lucas being responsible daily for transportation of children. It was not recommended to offer transportation to families on an as needed basis. Children were monitored engaged in outdoor play, eating lunch and preparing to nap on cots with linen. The posted menu was for next week. Ms. Lucas removed this week’s menu to update lunch changes. Today, children ate spaghetti with meat sauce, strawberries with milk. The infant room/space #3 was not open today. There were not any new staff hires since the last annual compliance visit completed in February of 2025. The staff and training worksheet were not updated. The last worksheet on file was pulled and reviewed for expired safety training and certifications. All staff were current with CBC’s, CPR and FA training with health and safety training. We discussed the ABCMS portal and the required process. A DCDEE roster report was run prior to the visit and existing staff were monitored listed. Monthly outdoor inspections, incident log, monthly fire drills and quarterly safety drills were monitored completed, and current. Monitored outdoor gate was not in good repair, not closed/secured while children were outside. The wooden steps, wooden railings, wooden floorboards were monitored warped, loose, and splintered. The center’s printed EPR plan and Ready to Go File were monitored for compliance. The center’s EPR plan was missing the name and current number for the Health Consultant. There was one new child who was not monitored in the Ready to Go File. While reviewing paperwork two live roaches were observed crawling on the walls in space #1. The last sanitation inspection was completed February 20, 2025, with nine (9) demerits cited and a Superior classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on February 21, 2025. The operator only received a City of Charlotte fire inspection report and not on the DCDEE fire inspection report. A call was made to Nicolas Harris newly appointed fire inspector, to request the required report. A violation was not cited due to the previous inspector did not provide the final inspection report to the operator. It was highly recommended to begin your annual inspection process four to six weeks prior to expiration. Violation Number Comment Rule 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu was altered, and the substitution changes were not posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Outdoor wooden ramp railings, steps, floorboards were in poor condition with exposed hardware and detached lattice in spots. The gate was monitored separated and unable to close fully. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. Vines were monitored grown over the fence and through the outdoor fencing and wooden ramps. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 826 Gates to the fenced outdoor play area did not remain closed while children occupied the area. Children were observed outside, and the playground gate was not closed. .0605(i) 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 missing children's contact information for one child who enrolled within the last two weeks. .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 updated plan was missing the current health consultant and contact number. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. Protective surfacing did not meet at least six inches in depth. .0605(k)(1-4) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Two live roaches were observed crawling on the walls in space #1. Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. We discussed Modernization of QRIS. It was highly recommended to ensure a DCDEE WORKS status letter is on file for each staff member, including all lead teachers, teachers, and group leaders. It was recommended to review all links sent pertaining to the reassessment. Provider meetings were discussed and the pending webinars this month. Between October and March of 2026, providers will be required to determine their selected pathway for reassessment. 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. 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, September 1, 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: ratio. Open / not marked corrected.
G.S. 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/18/2025 Number Present: 7 Completed Date: 8/18/2025 Age: From 1 To 10 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements during a Routine Unannounced Visit. The three-star licensed center continued to operate meeting enhanced ratios and space. Ms. Blackwell was observed outside with four children ranging in age from one to two years of age. The playground gate was observed partially open. Annette Lucas, operator, was present and working in the facility. The child care item 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 # 1-3, kitchen, and the outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. The center does not provide transportation to children currently. We discussed transportation and it was highly recommended to hire a van driver vs. Ms. Lucas being responsible daily for transportation of children. It was not recommended to offer transportation to families on an as needed basis. Children were monitored engaged in outdoor play, eating lunch and preparing to nap on cots with linen. The posted menu was for next week. Ms. Lucas removed this week’s menu to update lunch changes. Today, children ate spaghetti with meat sauce, strawberries with milk. The infant room/space #3 was not open today. There were not any new staff hires since the last annual compliance visit completed in February of 2025. The staff and training worksheet were not updated. The last worksheet on file was pulled and reviewed for expired safety training and certifications. All staff were current with CBC’s, CPR and FA training with health and safety training. We discussed the ABCMS portal and the required process. A DCDEE roster report was run prior to the visit and existing staff were monitored listed. Monthly outdoor inspections, incident log, monthly fire drills and quarterly safety drills were monitored completed, and current. Monitored outdoor gate was not in good repair, not closed/secured while children were outside. The wooden steps, wooden railings, wooden floorboards were monitored warped, loose, and splintered. The center’s printed EPR plan and Ready to Go File were monitored for compliance. The center’s EPR plan was missing the name and current number for the Health Consultant. There was one new child who was not monitored in the Ready to Go File. While reviewing paperwork two live roaches were observed crawling on the walls in space #1. The last sanitation inspection was completed February 20, 2025, with nine (9) demerits cited and a Superior classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on February 21, 2025. The operator only received a City of Charlotte fire inspection report and not on the DCDEE fire inspection report. A call was made to Nicolas Harris newly appointed fire inspector, to request the required report. A violation was not cited due to the previous inspector did not provide the final inspection report to the operator. It was highly recommended to begin your annual inspection process four to six weeks prior to expiration. Violation Number Comment Rule 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu was altered, and the substitution changes were not posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Outdoor wooden ramp railings, steps, floorboards were in poor condition with exposed hardware and detached lattice in spots. The gate was monitored separated and unable to close fully. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. Vines were monitored grown over the fence and through the outdoor fencing and wooden ramps. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 826 Gates to the fenced outdoor play area did not remain closed while children occupied the area. Children were observed outside, and the playground gate was not closed. .0605(i) 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 missing children's contact information for one child who enrolled within the last two weeks. .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 updated plan was missing the current health consultant and contact number. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. Protective surfacing did not meet at least six inches in depth. .0605(k)(1-4) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Two live roaches were observed crawling on the walls in space #1. Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. We discussed Modernization of QRIS. It was highly recommended to ensure a DCDEE WORKS status letter is on file for each staff member, including all lead teachers, teachers, and group leaders. It was recommended to review all links sent pertaining to the reassessment. Provider meetings were discussed and the pending webinars this month. Between October and March of 2026, providers will be required to determine their selected pathway for reassessment. 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. 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, September 1, 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. 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/18/2025 Number Present: 7 Completed Date: 8/18/2025 Age: From 1 To 10 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 10:15 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable child care requirements during a Routine Unannounced Visit. The three-star licensed center continued to operate meeting enhanced ratios and space. Ms. Blackwell was observed outside with four children ranging in age from one to two years of age. The playground gate was observed partially open. Annette Lucas, operator, was present and working in the facility. The child care item 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 # 1-3, kitchen, and the outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. The center does not provide transportation to children currently. We discussed transportation and it was highly recommended to hire a van driver vs. Ms. Lucas being responsible daily for transportation of children. It was not recommended to offer transportation to families on an as needed basis. Children were monitored engaged in outdoor play, eating lunch and preparing to nap on cots with linen. The posted menu was for next week. Ms. Lucas removed this week’s menu to update lunch changes. Today, children ate spaghetti with meat sauce, strawberries with milk. The infant room/space #3 was not open today. There were not any new staff hires since the last annual compliance visit completed in February of 2025. The staff and training worksheet were not updated. The last worksheet on file was pulled and reviewed for expired safety training and certifications. All staff were current with CBC’s, CPR and FA training with health and safety training. We discussed the ABCMS portal and the required process. A DCDEE roster report was run prior to the visit and existing staff were monitored listed. Monthly outdoor inspections, incident log, monthly fire drills and quarterly safety drills were monitored completed, and current. Monitored outdoor gate was not in good repair, not closed/secured while children were outside. The wooden steps, wooden railings, wooden floorboards were monitored warped, loose, and splintered. The center’s printed EPR plan and Ready to Go File were monitored for compliance. The center’s EPR plan was missing the name and current number for the Health Consultant. There was one new child who was not monitored in the Ready to Go File. While reviewing paperwork two live roaches were observed crawling on the walls in space #1. The last sanitation inspection was completed February 20, 2025, with nine (9) demerits cited and a Superior classification issued. The last annual fire inspection was completed on February 21, 2025. The operator only received a City of Charlotte fire inspection report and not on the DCDEE fire inspection report. A call was made to Nicolas Harris newly appointed fire inspector, to request the required report. A violation was not cited due to the previous inspector did not provide the final inspection report to the operator. It was highly recommended to begin your annual inspection process four to six weeks prior to expiration. Violation Number Comment Rule 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu was altered, and the substitution changes were not posted. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Outdoor wooden ramp railings, steps, floorboards were in poor condition with exposed hardware and detached lattice in spots. The gate was monitored separated and unable to close fully. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. Vines were monitored grown over the fence and through the outdoor fencing and wooden ramps. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 826 Gates to the fenced outdoor play area did not remain closed while children occupied the area. Children were observed outside, and the playground gate was not closed. .0605(i) 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 missing children's contact information for one child who enrolled within the last two weeks. .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 updated plan was missing the current health consultant and contact number. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. Protective surfacing did not meet at least six inches in depth. .0605(k)(1-4) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Two live roaches were observed crawling on the walls in space #1. Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: 1. We discussed Modernization of QRIS. It was highly recommended to ensure a DCDEE WORKS status letter is on file for each staff member, including all lead teachers, teachers, and group leaders. It was recommended to review all links sent pertaining to the reassessment. Provider meetings were discussed and the pending webinars this month. Between October and March of 2026, providers will be required to determine their selected pathway for reassessment. 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. 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, September 1, 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 .1001 · Violation
Name of Operation: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 11:30 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival at the center, I was greeted at the infant/toddler door by the on-site administrator, Ms. Blackwell. The operator, Ms. Lucas, was not present. I asked Ms. Blackwell to contact Ms. Lucas and inform her of the visit. Ms. Lucas didn’t respond back to Ms. Blackwell’s attempts to reach her before the visit concluded. The center maintained a three-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 #1-3, kitchen, outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored, napping on cots and or mats in two spaces #1 and #3. Eighteen children were monitored enrolled. Two children’s records were selected and monitored for compliance. Staff and Training worksheets were requested to be emailed to me prior to the visit. The worksheets were not received from the operator. The previous existing staff and training worksheets were reviewed and required items were monitored for three staff. Ms. Blackwell was asked to have Ms. Lucas email me the current staff and training worksheets by close of business. The center’s EPR plan was monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not current. The previous licensing consultant and contact information were listed instead of the existing consultant. The EPR- Ready to Go File was also monitored for compliance. There were five former enrolled children’s emergency contact information forms that were not removed from the EPR-Ready to Go File. The center’s EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. Ms. Blackwell was asked if any children had medications maintained on site. Ms. Blackwell stated no medications were maintained on site for children. The posted allergy list was no longer current based on the one child listed was no longer enrolled or attending the center. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored. The daily attendance with children’s arrival and departure times were monitored documented and current for today. Lesson plans were monitored current. Posted feeding schedules and the center’s current ITS-SIDS plan were monitored posted and current. Ms. Blackwell stated transportation was being provided to children occasionally. Transportation requirements have not been monitored for compliance by DCDEE. Please refrain from providing any transportation until transportation requirements are monitored and determined to meet all requirements. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. Monthly inspections were monitored completed. The wooden ramp used to get children outside to the playground and during fire drills was monitored in poor condition. The railings were not secured and moved with little to no touch/push. The wooden railings and floorboards were worn, warped with exposed hardware and splinters throughout. Concerns were raised as to the overall safety of the ramp. It was recommended to have the ramp inspected by a professional or potentially Mecklenburg Building and Standards inspector. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on February 20, 2025, (9) nine demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. A three-point demerit was cited related to pest control. The general comment was listed, “Observed several bugs crawling in the kitchen on the countertop, the oven and in cabinets. A bug was also observed crawling in the hallway restroom.” Ms. Blackwell stated it was reported to her by Ms. Lucas that the building was exterminated over the weekend. No documentation showing an extermination occurred over the weekend was provided. Today, live roaches of all sizes were observed in the kitchen, kitchen cabinets, on the floors, between the refrigerator/wall, crawling up the wall on the outside of the kitchen in space #3, on the floors of space #3. Dead roaches were monitored on the kitchen floor. One extermination was not enough to eradicate the building of roaches. A written and detailed plan from a licensed exterminator will be required. A final written statement from the exterminator indicating the pests were eradicated from the building will be required. The last annual fire inspection was completed on February 23, 2024. A completed annual fire inspection report dated February 21, 2025, was located on the couch in the office. Ms. Blackwell was asked to remind Ms. Lucas to submit a completed inspection report within one week of the inspection visit. The fire inspector must complete, sign and date the DCDEE annual fire inspection report. The final visit summary could not be printed due to printer/copier issues. The final summary will be emailed to the operator within twenty-four (24) hours. The visit summary was reviewed with Ms. Blackwell prior to my departure: #9995-Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. Live roaches and roach eggs were monitored throughout the kitchen area and other spaces within the center. The sanitation rule was reviewed with Ms. Blackwell during the visit. #721-The wooden ramp leading to the outdoor play area and used for evacuation and monthly fire drills was monitored in poor condition with exposed hardware, splinters, raised/warped floorboards, loose railings. The chain link fence separating the property was monitored in poor condition, leaning over and top rails not connected properly. #1867-There was one stationary piece of equipment. At least six inches of mulch was not present. #808-There were many fallen leaves throughout the outdoor play environment. Leaves must be removed and not just blown into the fenced corners. #1823-The Ready to Go File was not current. Five children no longer enrolled were monitored in the file. The center’s EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. It was recommended to place all required documents in a three-inch ring binder instead of a one-inch binder. #1824-The center’s EPR plan was not current. The previous licensing consultants contact information was listed. #1899-Ms. Lucas did not have documentation on file showing completion of the five-year renewal for H & S training (Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment). #508-The posted allergy list was not current (child listed no longer enrolled). Violation Number Comment Rule 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. The posted allergy list in the kitchen, space #1, and in the EPR-Ready to Go File were not current. .0901(g) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden ramp leading to the outdoor play area and used for evacuation and monthly fire drills was monitored in poor condition with exposed hardware, splinters, raised/warped floorboards, loose railings. The chain link fence separating the property from the next residence was monitored in poor condition, leaning over and top rails not connected properly. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There were many fallen leaves throughout the outdoor play environment. The monitored leaves were built up in the corners of the fenced in play areas. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 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. Five formerly enrolled children were still maintained in the file. The center's printed EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. .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 the previously assigned consultant and contact information were listed. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The outdoor stationary play equipment was not placed over at least six inches of protective surfacing. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 A. Lucas didn't have documentation on file showing completion of the five-year renewal for CMT training. .1103(b) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 (b) Animal and Vermin Control. Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. Several live roaches were monitored in the kitchen, space #3, and space #1. 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 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. 2. We discussed submitting CBC requalification’s in six-month increments (June and January). CBC renewals may be submitted six months prior to expiration. 3. Ms. Lucas and I discussed correcting the enhanced standards the center is required to maintain during the last visit. When the center transitioned from a temporary license to a star rated license, the lead consultant didn’t list Ms. Lucas’s selected option for programmatic points of meeting enhanced ratios. Ms. Lucas stated she desired to meet enhanced ratios only. A permit packet will be submitted to reflect the correction once the facility is in full compliance. 4. 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). 5. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 (b) Animal and Vermin Control. Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. 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, March 10, 2025. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: ratio. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .1002 · Violation
Name of Operation: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 11:30 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival at the center, I was greeted at the infant/toddler door by the on-site administrator, Ms. Blackwell. The operator, Ms. Lucas, was not present. I asked Ms. Blackwell to contact Ms. Lucas and inform her of the visit. Ms. Lucas didn’t respond back to Ms. Blackwell’s attempts to reach her before the visit concluded. The center maintained a three-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 #1-3, kitchen, outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored, napping on cots and or mats in two spaces #1 and #3. Eighteen children were monitored enrolled. Two children’s records were selected and monitored for compliance. Staff and Training worksheets were requested to be emailed to me prior to the visit. The worksheets were not received from the operator. The previous existing staff and training worksheets were reviewed and required items were monitored for three staff. Ms. Blackwell was asked to have Ms. Lucas email me the current staff and training worksheets by close of business. The center’s EPR plan was monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not current. The previous licensing consultant and contact information were listed instead of the existing consultant. The EPR- Ready to Go File was also monitored for compliance. There were five former enrolled children’s emergency contact information forms that were not removed from the EPR-Ready to Go File. The center’s EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. Ms. Blackwell was asked if any children had medications maintained on site. Ms. Blackwell stated no medications were maintained on site for children. The posted allergy list was no longer current based on the one child listed was no longer enrolled or attending the center. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored. The daily attendance with children’s arrival and departure times were monitored documented and current for today. Lesson plans were monitored current. Posted feeding schedules and the center’s current ITS-SIDS plan were monitored posted and current. Ms. Blackwell stated transportation was being provided to children occasionally. Transportation requirements have not been monitored for compliance by DCDEE. Please refrain from providing any transportation until transportation requirements are monitored and determined to meet all requirements. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. Monthly inspections were monitored completed. The wooden ramp used to get children outside to the playground and during fire drills was monitored in poor condition. The railings were not secured and moved with little to no touch/push. The wooden railings and floorboards were worn, warped with exposed hardware and splinters throughout. Concerns were raised as to the overall safety of the ramp. It was recommended to have the ramp inspected by a professional or potentially Mecklenburg Building and Standards inspector. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on February 20, 2025, (9) nine demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. A three-point demerit was cited related to pest control. The general comment was listed, “Observed several bugs crawling in the kitchen on the countertop, the oven and in cabinets. A bug was also observed crawling in the hallway restroom.” Ms. Blackwell stated it was reported to her by Ms. Lucas that the building was exterminated over the weekend. No documentation showing an extermination occurred over the weekend was provided. Today, live roaches of all sizes were observed in the kitchen, kitchen cabinets, on the floors, between the refrigerator/wall, crawling up the wall on the outside of the kitchen in space #3, on the floors of space #3. Dead roaches were monitored on the kitchen floor. One extermination was not enough to eradicate the building of roaches. A written and detailed plan from a licensed exterminator will be required. A final written statement from the exterminator indicating the pests were eradicated from the building will be required. The last annual fire inspection was completed on February 23, 2024. A completed annual fire inspection report dated February 21, 2025, was located on the couch in the office. Ms. Blackwell was asked to remind Ms. Lucas to submit a completed inspection report within one week of the inspection visit. The fire inspector must complete, sign and date the DCDEE annual fire inspection report. The final visit summary could not be printed due to printer/copier issues. The final summary will be emailed to the operator within twenty-four (24) hours. The visit summary was reviewed with Ms. Blackwell prior to my departure: #9995-Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. Live roaches and roach eggs were monitored throughout the kitchen area and other spaces within the center. The sanitation rule was reviewed with Ms. Blackwell during the visit. #721-The wooden ramp leading to the outdoor play area and used for evacuation and monthly fire drills was monitored in poor condition with exposed hardware, splinters, raised/warped floorboards, loose railings. The chain link fence separating the property was monitored in poor condition, leaning over and top rails not connected properly. #1867-There was one stationary piece of equipment. At least six inches of mulch was not present. #808-There were many fallen leaves throughout the outdoor play environment. Leaves must be removed and not just blown into the fenced corners. #1823-The Ready to Go File was not current. Five children no longer enrolled were monitored in the file. The center’s EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. It was recommended to place all required documents in a three-inch ring binder instead of a one-inch binder. #1824-The center’s EPR plan was not current. The previous licensing consultants contact information was listed. #1899-Ms. Lucas did not have documentation on file showing completion of the five-year renewal for H & S training (Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment). #508-The posted allergy list was not current (child listed no longer enrolled). Violation Number Comment Rule 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. The posted allergy list in the kitchen, space #1, and in the EPR-Ready to Go File were not current. .0901(g) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden ramp leading to the outdoor play area and used for evacuation and monthly fire drills was monitored in poor condition with exposed hardware, splinters, raised/warped floorboards, loose railings. The chain link fence separating the property from the next residence was monitored in poor condition, leaning over and top rails not connected properly. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There were many fallen leaves throughout the outdoor play environment. The monitored leaves were built up in the corners of the fenced in play areas. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 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. Five formerly enrolled children were still maintained in the file. The center's printed EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. .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 the previously assigned consultant and contact information were listed. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The outdoor stationary play equipment was not placed over at least six inches of protective surfacing. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 A. Lucas didn't have documentation on file showing completion of the five-year renewal for CMT training. .1103(b) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 (b) Animal and Vermin Control. Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. Several live roaches were monitored in the kitchen, space #3, and space #1. 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 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. 2. We discussed submitting CBC requalification’s in six-month increments (June and January). CBC renewals may be submitted six months prior to expiration. 3. Ms. Lucas and I discussed correcting the enhanced standards the center is required to maintain during the last visit. When the center transitioned from a temporary license to a star rated license, the lead consultant didn’t list Ms. Lucas’s selected option for programmatic points of meeting enhanced ratios. Ms. Lucas stated she desired to meet enhanced ratios only. A permit packet will be submitted to reflect the correction once the facility is in full compliance. 4. 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). 5. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 (b) Animal and Vermin Control. Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. 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, March 10, 2025. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail 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: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 11:30 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival at the center, I was greeted at the infant/toddler door by the on-site administrator, Ms. Blackwell. The operator, Ms. Lucas, was not present. I asked Ms. Blackwell to contact Ms. Lucas and inform her of the visit. Ms. Lucas didn’t respond back to Ms. Blackwell’s attempts to reach her before the visit concluded. The center maintained a three-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 #1-3, kitchen, outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored, napping on cots and or mats in two spaces #1 and #3. Eighteen children were monitored enrolled. Two children’s records were selected and monitored for compliance. Staff and Training worksheets were requested to be emailed to me prior to the visit. The worksheets were not received from the operator. The previous existing staff and training worksheets were reviewed and required items were monitored for three staff. Ms. Blackwell was asked to have Ms. Lucas email me the current staff and training worksheets by close of business. The center’s EPR plan was monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not current. The previous licensing consultant and contact information were listed instead of the existing consultant. The EPR- Ready to Go File was also monitored for compliance. There were five former enrolled children’s emergency contact information forms that were not removed from the EPR-Ready to Go File. The center’s EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. Ms. Blackwell was asked if any children had medications maintained on site. Ms. Blackwell stated no medications were maintained on site for children. The posted allergy list was no longer current based on the one child listed was no longer enrolled or attending the center. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored. The daily attendance with children’s arrival and departure times were monitored documented and current for today. Lesson plans were monitored current. Posted feeding schedules and the center’s current ITS-SIDS plan were monitored posted and current. Ms. Blackwell stated transportation was being provided to children occasionally. Transportation requirements have not been monitored for compliance by DCDEE. Please refrain from providing any transportation until transportation requirements are monitored and determined to meet all requirements. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. Monthly inspections were monitored completed. The wooden ramp used to get children outside to the playground and during fire drills was monitored in poor condition. The railings were not secured and moved with little to no touch/push. The wooden railings and floorboards were worn, warped with exposed hardware and splinters throughout. Concerns were raised as to the overall safety of the ramp. It was recommended to have the ramp inspected by a professional or potentially Mecklenburg Building and Standards inspector. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on February 20, 2025, (9) nine demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. A three-point demerit was cited related to pest control. The general comment was listed, “Observed several bugs crawling in the kitchen on the countertop, the oven and in cabinets. A bug was also observed crawling in the hallway restroom.” Ms. Blackwell stated it was reported to her by Ms. Lucas that the building was exterminated over the weekend. No documentation showing an extermination occurred over the weekend was provided. Today, live roaches of all sizes were observed in the kitchen, kitchen cabinets, on the floors, between the refrigerator/wall, crawling up the wall on the outside of the kitchen in space #3, on the floors of space #3. Dead roaches were monitored on the kitchen floor. One extermination was not enough to eradicate the building of roaches. A written and detailed plan from a licensed exterminator will be required. A final written statement from the exterminator indicating the pests were eradicated from the building will be required. The last annual fire inspection was completed on February 23, 2024. A completed annual fire inspection report dated February 21, 2025, was located on the couch in the office. Ms. Blackwell was asked to remind Ms. Lucas to submit a completed inspection report within one week of the inspection visit. The fire inspector must complete, sign and date the DCDEE annual fire inspection report. The final visit summary could not be printed due to printer/copier issues. The final summary will be emailed to the operator within twenty-four (24) hours. The visit summary was reviewed with Ms. Blackwell prior to my departure: #9995-Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. Live roaches and roach eggs were monitored throughout the kitchen area and other spaces within the center. The sanitation rule was reviewed with Ms. Blackwell during the visit. #721-The wooden ramp leading to the outdoor play area and used for evacuation and monthly fire drills was monitored in poor condition with exposed hardware, splinters, raised/warped floorboards, loose railings. The chain link fence separating the property was monitored in poor condition, leaning over and top rails not connected properly. #1867-There was one stationary piece of equipment. At least six inches of mulch was not present. #808-There were many fallen leaves throughout the outdoor play environment. Leaves must be removed and not just blown into the fenced corners. #1823-The Ready to Go File was not current. Five children no longer enrolled were monitored in the file. The center’s EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. It was recommended to place all required documents in a three-inch ring binder instead of a one-inch binder. #1824-The center’s EPR plan was not current. The previous licensing consultants contact information was listed. #1899-Ms. Lucas did not have documentation on file showing completion of the five-year renewal for H & S training (Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment). #508-The posted allergy list was not current (child listed no longer enrolled). Violation Number Comment Rule 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. The posted allergy list in the kitchen, space #1, and in the EPR-Ready to Go File were not current. .0901(g) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden ramp leading to the outdoor play area and used for evacuation and monthly fire drills was monitored in poor condition with exposed hardware, splinters, raised/warped floorboards, loose railings. The chain link fence separating the property from the next residence was monitored in poor condition, leaning over and top rails not connected properly. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There were many fallen leaves throughout the outdoor play environment. The monitored leaves were built up in the corners of the fenced in play areas. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 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. Five formerly enrolled children were still maintained in the file. The center's printed EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. .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 the previously assigned consultant and contact information were listed. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The outdoor stationary play equipment was not placed over at least six inches of protective surfacing. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 A. Lucas didn't have documentation on file showing completion of the five-year renewal for CMT training. .1103(b) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 (b) Animal and Vermin Control. Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. Several live roaches were monitored in the kitchen, space #3, and space #1. 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 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. 2. We discussed submitting CBC requalification’s in six-month increments (June and January). CBC renewals may be submitted six months prior to expiration. 3. Ms. Lucas and I discussed correcting the enhanced standards the center is required to maintain during the last visit. When the center transitioned from a temporary license to a star rated license, the lead consultant didn’t list Ms. Lucas’s selected option for programmatic points of meeting enhanced ratios. Ms. Lucas stated she desired to meet enhanced ratios only. A permit packet will be submitted to reflect the correction once the facility is in full compliance. 4. 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). 5. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 (b) Animal and Vermin Control. Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. 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, March 10, 2025. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail 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: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 11:30 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival at the center, I was greeted at the infant/toddler door by the on-site administrator, Ms. Blackwell. The operator, Ms. Lucas, was not present. I asked Ms. Blackwell to contact Ms. Lucas and inform her of the visit. Ms. Lucas didn’t respond back to Ms. Blackwell’s attempts to reach her before the visit concluded. The center maintained a three-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 #1-3, kitchen, outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored, napping on cots and or mats in two spaces #1 and #3. Eighteen children were monitored enrolled. Two children’s records were selected and monitored for compliance. Staff and Training worksheets were requested to be emailed to me prior to the visit. The worksheets were not received from the operator. The previous existing staff and training worksheets were reviewed and required items were monitored for three staff. Ms. Blackwell was asked to have Ms. Lucas email me the current staff and training worksheets by close of business. The center’s EPR plan was monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not current. The previous licensing consultant and contact information were listed instead of the existing consultant. The EPR- Ready to Go File was also monitored for compliance. There were five former enrolled children’s emergency contact information forms that were not removed from the EPR-Ready to Go File. The center’s EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. Ms. Blackwell was asked if any children had medications maintained on site. Ms. Blackwell stated no medications were maintained on site for children. The posted allergy list was no longer current based on the one child listed was no longer enrolled or attending the center. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored. The daily attendance with children’s arrival and departure times were monitored documented and current for today. Lesson plans were monitored current. Posted feeding schedules and the center’s current ITS-SIDS plan were monitored posted and current. Ms. Blackwell stated transportation was being provided to children occasionally. Transportation requirements have not been monitored for compliance by DCDEE. Please refrain from providing any transportation until transportation requirements are monitored and determined to meet all requirements. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. Monthly inspections were monitored completed. The wooden ramp used to get children outside to the playground and during fire drills was monitored in poor condition. The railings were not secured and moved with little to no touch/push. The wooden railings and floorboards were worn, warped with exposed hardware and splinters throughout. Concerns were raised as to the overall safety of the ramp. It was recommended to have the ramp inspected by a professional or potentially Mecklenburg Building and Standards inspector. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on February 20, 2025, (9) nine demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. A three-point demerit was cited related to pest control. The general comment was listed, “Observed several bugs crawling in the kitchen on the countertop, the oven and in cabinets. A bug was also observed crawling in the hallway restroom.” Ms. Blackwell stated it was reported to her by Ms. Lucas that the building was exterminated over the weekend. No documentation showing an extermination occurred over the weekend was provided. Today, live roaches of all sizes were observed in the kitchen, kitchen cabinets, on the floors, between the refrigerator/wall, crawling up the wall on the outside of the kitchen in space #3, on the floors of space #3. Dead roaches were monitored on the kitchen floor. One extermination was not enough to eradicate the building of roaches. A written and detailed plan from a licensed exterminator will be required. A final written statement from the exterminator indicating the pests were eradicated from the building will be required. The last annual fire inspection was completed on February 23, 2024. A completed annual fire inspection report dated February 21, 2025, was located on the couch in the office. Ms. Blackwell was asked to remind Ms. Lucas to submit a completed inspection report within one week of the inspection visit. The fire inspector must complete, sign and date the DCDEE annual fire inspection report. The final visit summary could not be printed due to printer/copier issues. The final summary will be emailed to the operator within twenty-four (24) hours. The visit summary was reviewed with Ms. Blackwell prior to my departure: #9995-Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. Live roaches and roach eggs were monitored throughout the kitchen area and other spaces within the center. The sanitation rule was reviewed with Ms. Blackwell during the visit. #721-The wooden ramp leading to the outdoor play area and used for evacuation and monthly fire drills was monitored in poor condition with exposed hardware, splinters, raised/warped floorboards, loose railings. The chain link fence separating the property was monitored in poor condition, leaning over and top rails not connected properly. #1867-There was one stationary piece of equipment. At least six inches of mulch was not present. #808-There were many fallen leaves throughout the outdoor play environment. Leaves must be removed and not just blown into the fenced corners. #1823-The Ready to Go File was not current. Five children no longer enrolled were monitored in the file. The center’s EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. It was recommended to place all required documents in a three-inch ring binder instead of a one-inch binder. #1824-The center’s EPR plan was not current. The previous licensing consultants contact information was listed. #1899-Ms. Lucas did not have documentation on file showing completion of the five-year renewal for H & S training (Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment). #508-The posted allergy list was not current (child listed no longer enrolled). Violation Number Comment Rule 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. The posted allergy list in the kitchen, space #1, and in the EPR-Ready to Go File were not current. .0901(g) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden ramp leading to the outdoor play area and used for evacuation and monthly fire drills was monitored in poor condition with exposed hardware, splinters, raised/warped floorboards, loose railings. The chain link fence separating the property from the next residence was monitored in poor condition, leaning over and top rails not connected properly. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There were many fallen leaves throughout the outdoor play environment. The monitored leaves were built up in the corners of the fenced in play areas. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 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. Five formerly enrolled children were still maintained in the file. The center's printed EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. .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 the previously assigned consultant and contact information were listed. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The outdoor stationary play equipment was not placed over at least six inches of protective surfacing. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 A. Lucas didn't have documentation on file showing completion of the five-year renewal for CMT training. .1103(b) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 (b) Animal and Vermin Control. Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. Several live roaches were monitored in the kitchen, space #3, and space #1. 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 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. 2. We discussed submitting CBC requalification’s in six-month increments (June and January). CBC renewals may be submitted six months prior to expiration. 3. Ms. Lucas and I discussed correcting the enhanced standards the center is required to maintain during the last visit. When the center transitioned from a temporary license to a star rated license, the lead consultant didn’t list Ms. Lucas’s selected option for programmatic points of meeting enhanced ratios. Ms. Lucas stated she desired to meet enhanced ratios only. A permit packet will be submitted to reflect the correction once the facility is in full compliance. 4. 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). 5. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 (b) Animal and Vermin Control. Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. 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, March 10, 2025. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail 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: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 11:30 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival at the center, I was greeted at the infant/toddler door by the on-site administrator, Ms. Blackwell. The operator, Ms. Lucas, was not present. I asked Ms. Blackwell to contact Ms. Lucas and inform her of the visit. Ms. Lucas didn’t respond back to Ms. Blackwell’s attempts to reach her before the visit concluded. The center maintained a three-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 #1-3, kitchen, outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored, napping on cots and or mats in two spaces #1 and #3. Eighteen children were monitored enrolled. Two children’s records were selected and monitored for compliance. Staff and Training worksheets were requested to be emailed to me prior to the visit. The worksheets were not received from the operator. The previous existing staff and training worksheets were reviewed and required items were monitored for three staff. Ms. Blackwell was asked to have Ms. Lucas email me the current staff and training worksheets by close of business. The center’s EPR plan was monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not current. The previous licensing consultant and contact information were listed instead of the existing consultant. The EPR- Ready to Go File was also monitored for compliance. There were five former enrolled children’s emergency contact information forms that were not removed from the EPR-Ready to Go File. The center’s EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. Ms. Blackwell was asked if any children had medications maintained on site. Ms. Blackwell stated no medications were maintained on site for children. The posted allergy list was no longer current based on the one child listed was no longer enrolled or attending the center. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored. The daily attendance with children’s arrival and departure times were monitored documented and current for today. Lesson plans were monitored current. Posted feeding schedules and the center’s current ITS-SIDS plan were monitored posted and current. Ms. Blackwell stated transportation was being provided to children occasionally. Transportation requirements have not been monitored for compliance by DCDEE. Please refrain from providing any transportation until transportation requirements are monitored and determined to meet all requirements. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. Monthly inspections were monitored completed. The wooden ramp used to get children outside to the playground and during fire drills was monitored in poor condition. The railings were not secured and moved with little to no touch/push. The wooden railings and floorboards were worn, warped with exposed hardware and splinters throughout. Concerns were raised as to the overall safety of the ramp. It was recommended to have the ramp inspected by a professional or potentially Mecklenburg Building and Standards inspector. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on February 20, 2025, (9) nine demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. A three-point demerit was cited related to pest control. The general comment was listed, “Observed several bugs crawling in the kitchen on the countertop, the oven and in cabinets. A bug was also observed crawling in the hallway restroom.” Ms. Blackwell stated it was reported to her by Ms. Lucas that the building was exterminated over the weekend. No documentation showing an extermination occurred over the weekend was provided. Today, live roaches of all sizes were observed in the kitchen, kitchen cabinets, on the floors, between the refrigerator/wall, crawling up the wall on the outside of the kitchen in space #3, on the floors of space #3. Dead roaches were monitored on the kitchen floor. One extermination was not enough to eradicate the building of roaches. A written and detailed plan from a licensed exterminator will be required. A final written statement from the exterminator indicating the pests were eradicated from the building will be required. The last annual fire inspection was completed on February 23, 2024. A completed annual fire inspection report dated February 21, 2025, was located on the couch in the office. Ms. Blackwell was asked to remind Ms. Lucas to submit a completed inspection report within one week of the inspection visit. The fire inspector must complete, sign and date the DCDEE annual fire inspection report. The final visit summary could not be printed due to printer/copier issues. The final summary will be emailed to the operator within twenty-four (24) hours. The visit summary was reviewed with Ms. Blackwell prior to my departure: #9995-Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. Live roaches and roach eggs were monitored throughout the kitchen area and other spaces within the center. The sanitation rule was reviewed with Ms. Blackwell during the visit. #721-The wooden ramp leading to the outdoor play area and used for evacuation and monthly fire drills was monitored in poor condition with exposed hardware, splinters, raised/warped floorboards, loose railings. The chain link fence separating the property was monitored in poor condition, leaning over and top rails not connected properly. #1867-There was one stationary piece of equipment. At least six inches of mulch was not present. #808-There were many fallen leaves throughout the outdoor play environment. Leaves must be removed and not just blown into the fenced corners. #1823-The Ready to Go File was not current. Five children no longer enrolled were monitored in the file. The center’s EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. It was recommended to place all required documents in a three-inch ring binder instead of a one-inch binder. #1824-The center’s EPR plan was not current. The previous licensing consultants contact information was listed. #1899-Ms. Lucas did not have documentation on file showing completion of the five-year renewal for H & S training (Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment). #508-The posted allergy list was not current (child listed no longer enrolled). Violation Number Comment Rule 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. The posted allergy list in the kitchen, space #1, and in the EPR-Ready to Go File were not current. .0901(g) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden ramp leading to the outdoor play area and used for evacuation and monthly fire drills was monitored in poor condition with exposed hardware, splinters, raised/warped floorboards, loose railings. The chain link fence separating the property from the next residence was monitored in poor condition, leaning over and top rails not connected properly. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There were many fallen leaves throughout the outdoor play environment. The monitored leaves were built up in the corners of the fenced in play areas. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 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. Five formerly enrolled children were still maintained in the file. The center's printed EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. .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 the previously assigned consultant and contact information were listed. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The outdoor stationary play equipment was not placed over at least six inches of protective surfacing. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 A. Lucas didn't have documentation on file showing completion of the five-year renewal for CMT training. .1103(b) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 (b) Animal and Vermin Control. Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. Several live roaches were monitored in the kitchen, space #3, and space #1. 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 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. 2. We discussed submitting CBC requalification’s in six-month increments (June and January). CBC renewals may be submitted six months prior to expiration. 3. Ms. Lucas and I discussed correcting the enhanced standards the center is required to maintain during the last visit. When the center transitioned from a temporary license to a star rated license, the lead consultant didn’t list Ms. Lucas’s selected option for programmatic points of meeting enhanced ratios. Ms. Lucas stated she desired to meet enhanced ratios only. A permit packet will be submitted to reflect the correction once the facility is in full compliance. 4. 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). 5. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 (b) Animal and Vermin Control. Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. 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, March 10, 2025. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail 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: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 11:30 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival at the center, I was greeted at the infant/toddler door by the on-site administrator, Ms. Blackwell. The operator, Ms. Lucas, was not present. I asked Ms. Blackwell to contact Ms. Lucas and inform her of the visit. Ms. Lucas didn’t respond back to Ms. Blackwell’s attempts to reach her before the visit concluded. The center maintained a three-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 #1-3, kitchen, outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored, napping on cots and or mats in two spaces #1 and #3. Eighteen children were monitored enrolled. Two children’s records were selected and monitored for compliance. Staff and Training worksheets were requested to be emailed to me prior to the visit. The worksheets were not received from the operator. The previous existing staff and training worksheets were reviewed and required items were monitored for three staff. Ms. Blackwell was asked to have Ms. Lucas email me the current staff and training worksheets by close of business. The center’s EPR plan was monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not current. The previous licensing consultant and contact information were listed instead of the existing consultant. The EPR- Ready to Go File was also monitored for compliance. There were five former enrolled children’s emergency contact information forms that were not removed from the EPR-Ready to Go File. The center’s EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. Ms. Blackwell was asked if any children had medications maintained on site. Ms. Blackwell stated no medications were maintained on site for children. The posted allergy list was no longer current based on the one child listed was no longer enrolled or attending the center. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored. The daily attendance with children’s arrival and departure times were monitored documented and current for today. Lesson plans were monitored current. Posted feeding schedules and the center’s current ITS-SIDS plan were monitored posted and current. Ms. Blackwell stated transportation was being provided to children occasionally. Transportation requirements have not been monitored for compliance by DCDEE. Please refrain from providing any transportation until transportation requirements are monitored and determined to meet all requirements. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. Monthly inspections were monitored completed. The wooden ramp used to get children outside to the playground and during fire drills was monitored in poor condition. The railings were not secured and moved with little to no touch/push. The wooden railings and floorboards were worn, warped with exposed hardware and splinters throughout. Concerns were raised as to the overall safety of the ramp. It was recommended to have the ramp inspected by a professional or potentially Mecklenburg Building and Standards inspector. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on February 20, 2025, (9) nine demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. A three-point demerit was cited related to pest control. The general comment was listed, “Observed several bugs crawling in the kitchen on the countertop, the oven and in cabinets. A bug was also observed crawling in the hallway restroom.” Ms. Blackwell stated it was reported to her by Ms. Lucas that the building was exterminated over the weekend. No documentation showing an extermination occurred over the weekend was provided. Today, live roaches of all sizes were observed in the kitchen, kitchen cabinets, on the floors, between the refrigerator/wall, crawling up the wall on the outside of the kitchen in space #3, on the floors of space #3. Dead roaches were monitored on the kitchen floor. One extermination was not enough to eradicate the building of roaches. A written and detailed plan from a licensed exterminator will be required. A final written statement from the exterminator indicating the pests were eradicated from the building will be required. The last annual fire inspection was completed on February 23, 2024. A completed annual fire inspection report dated February 21, 2025, was located on the couch in the office. Ms. Blackwell was asked to remind Ms. Lucas to submit a completed inspection report within one week of the inspection visit. The fire inspector must complete, sign and date the DCDEE annual fire inspection report. The final visit summary could not be printed due to printer/copier issues. The final summary will be emailed to the operator within twenty-four (24) hours. The visit summary was reviewed with Ms. Blackwell prior to my departure: #9995-Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. Live roaches and roach eggs were monitored throughout the kitchen area and other spaces within the center. The sanitation rule was reviewed with Ms. Blackwell during the visit. #721-The wooden ramp leading to the outdoor play area and used for evacuation and monthly fire drills was monitored in poor condition with exposed hardware, splinters, raised/warped floorboards, loose railings. The chain link fence separating the property was monitored in poor condition, leaning over and top rails not connected properly. #1867-There was one stationary piece of equipment. At least six inches of mulch was not present. #808-There were many fallen leaves throughout the outdoor play environment. Leaves must be removed and not just blown into the fenced corners. #1823-The Ready to Go File was not current. Five children no longer enrolled were monitored in the file. The center’s EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. It was recommended to place all required documents in a three-inch ring binder instead of a one-inch binder. #1824-The center’s EPR plan was not current. The previous licensing consultants contact information was listed. #1899-Ms. Lucas did not have documentation on file showing completion of the five-year renewal for H & S training (Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment). #508-The posted allergy list was not current (child listed no longer enrolled). Violation Number Comment Rule 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. The posted allergy list in the kitchen, space #1, and in the EPR-Ready to Go File were not current. .0901(g) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden ramp leading to the outdoor play area and used for evacuation and monthly fire drills was monitored in poor condition with exposed hardware, splinters, raised/warped floorboards, loose railings. The chain link fence separating the property from the next residence was monitored in poor condition, leaning over and top rails not connected properly. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There were many fallen leaves throughout the outdoor play environment. The monitored leaves were built up in the corners of the fenced in play areas. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 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. Five formerly enrolled children were still maintained in the file. The center's printed EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. .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 the previously assigned consultant and contact information were listed. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The outdoor stationary play equipment was not placed over at least six inches of protective surfacing. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 A. Lucas didn't have documentation on file showing completion of the five-year renewal for CMT training. .1103(b) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 (b) Animal and Vermin Control. Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. Several live roaches were monitored in the kitchen, space #3, and space #1. 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 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. 2. We discussed submitting CBC requalification’s in six-month increments (June and January). CBC renewals may be submitted six months prior to expiration. 3. Ms. Lucas and I discussed correcting the enhanced standards the center is required to maintain during the last visit. When the center transitioned from a temporary license to a star rated license, the lead consultant didn’t list Ms. Lucas’s selected option for programmatic points of meeting enhanced ratios. Ms. Lucas stated she desired to meet enhanced ratios only. A permit packet will be submitted to reflect the correction once the facility is in full compliance. 4. 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). 5. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 (b) Animal and Vermin Control. Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. 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, March 10, 2025. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail 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: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 11:30 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival at the center, I was greeted at the infant/toddler door by the on-site administrator, Ms. Blackwell. The operator, Ms. Lucas, was not present. I asked Ms. Blackwell to contact Ms. Lucas and inform her of the visit. Ms. Lucas didn’t respond back to Ms. Blackwell’s attempts to reach her before the visit concluded. The center maintained a three-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 #1-3, kitchen, outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored, napping on cots and or mats in two spaces #1 and #3. Eighteen children were monitored enrolled. Two children’s records were selected and monitored for compliance. Staff and Training worksheets were requested to be emailed to me prior to the visit. The worksheets were not received from the operator. The previous existing staff and training worksheets were reviewed and required items were monitored for three staff. Ms. Blackwell was asked to have Ms. Lucas email me the current staff and training worksheets by close of business. The center’s EPR plan was monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not current. The previous licensing consultant and contact information were listed instead of the existing consultant. The EPR- Ready to Go File was also monitored for compliance. There were five former enrolled children’s emergency contact information forms that were not removed from the EPR-Ready to Go File. The center’s EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. Ms. Blackwell was asked if any children had medications maintained on site. Ms. Blackwell stated no medications were maintained on site for children. The posted allergy list was no longer current based on the one child listed was no longer enrolled or attending the center. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored. The daily attendance with children’s arrival and departure times were monitored documented and current for today. Lesson plans were monitored current. Posted feeding schedules and the center’s current ITS-SIDS plan were monitored posted and current. Ms. Blackwell stated transportation was being provided to children occasionally. Transportation requirements have not been monitored for compliance by DCDEE. Please refrain from providing any transportation until transportation requirements are monitored and determined to meet all requirements. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. Monthly inspections were monitored completed. The wooden ramp used to get children outside to the playground and during fire drills was monitored in poor condition. The railings were not secured and moved with little to no touch/push. The wooden railings and floorboards were worn, warped with exposed hardware and splinters throughout. Concerns were raised as to the overall safety of the ramp. It was recommended to have the ramp inspected by a professional or potentially Mecklenburg Building and Standards inspector. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on February 20, 2025, (9) nine demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. A three-point demerit was cited related to pest control. The general comment was listed, “Observed several bugs crawling in the kitchen on the countertop, the oven and in cabinets. A bug was also observed crawling in the hallway restroom.” Ms. Blackwell stated it was reported to her by Ms. Lucas that the building was exterminated over the weekend. No documentation showing an extermination occurred over the weekend was provided. Today, live roaches of all sizes were observed in the kitchen, kitchen cabinets, on the floors, between the refrigerator/wall, crawling up the wall on the outside of the kitchen in space #3, on the floors of space #3. Dead roaches were monitored on the kitchen floor. One extermination was not enough to eradicate the building of roaches. A written and detailed plan from a licensed exterminator will be required. A final written statement from the exterminator indicating the pests were eradicated from the building will be required. The last annual fire inspection was completed on February 23, 2024. A completed annual fire inspection report dated February 21, 2025, was located on the couch in the office. Ms. Blackwell was asked to remind Ms. Lucas to submit a completed inspection report within one week of the inspection visit. The fire inspector must complete, sign and date the DCDEE annual fire inspection report. The final visit summary could not be printed due to printer/copier issues. The final summary will be emailed to the operator within twenty-four (24) hours. The visit summary was reviewed with Ms. Blackwell prior to my departure: #9995-Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. Live roaches and roach eggs were monitored throughout the kitchen area and other spaces within the center. The sanitation rule was reviewed with Ms. Blackwell during the visit. #721-The wooden ramp leading to the outdoor play area and used for evacuation and monthly fire drills was monitored in poor condition with exposed hardware, splinters, raised/warped floorboards, loose railings. The chain link fence separating the property was monitored in poor condition, leaning over and top rails not connected properly. #1867-There was one stationary piece of equipment. At least six inches of mulch was not present. #808-There were many fallen leaves throughout the outdoor play environment. Leaves must be removed and not just blown into the fenced corners. #1823-The Ready to Go File was not current. Five children no longer enrolled were monitored in the file. The center’s EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. It was recommended to place all required documents in a three-inch ring binder instead of a one-inch binder. #1824-The center’s EPR plan was not current. The previous licensing consultants contact information was listed. #1899-Ms. Lucas did not have documentation on file showing completion of the five-year renewal for H & S training (Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment). #508-The posted allergy list was not current (child listed no longer enrolled). Violation Number Comment Rule 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. The posted allergy list in the kitchen, space #1, and in the EPR-Ready to Go File were not current. .0901(g) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden ramp leading to the outdoor play area and used for evacuation and monthly fire drills was monitored in poor condition with exposed hardware, splinters, raised/warped floorboards, loose railings. The chain link fence separating the property from the next residence was monitored in poor condition, leaning over and top rails not connected properly. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There were many fallen leaves throughout the outdoor play environment. The monitored leaves were built up in the corners of the fenced in play areas. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 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. Five formerly enrolled children were still maintained in the file. The center's printed EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. .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 the previously assigned consultant and contact information were listed. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The outdoor stationary play equipment was not placed over at least six inches of protective surfacing. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 A. Lucas didn't have documentation on file showing completion of the five-year renewal for CMT training. .1103(b) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 (b) Animal and Vermin Control. Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. Several live roaches were monitored in the kitchen, space #3, and space #1. 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 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. 2. We discussed submitting CBC requalification’s in six-month increments (June and January). CBC renewals may be submitted six months prior to expiration. 3. Ms. Lucas and I discussed correcting the enhanced standards the center is required to maintain during the last visit. When the center transitioned from a temporary license to a star rated license, the lead consultant didn’t list Ms. Lucas’s selected option for programmatic points of meeting enhanced ratios. Ms. Lucas stated she desired to meet enhanced ratios only. A permit packet will be submitted to reflect the correction once the facility is in full compliance. 4. 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). 5. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 (b) Animal and Vermin Control. Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. 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, March 10, 2025. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail 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: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 11:30 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival at the center, I was greeted at the infant/toddler door by the on-site administrator, Ms. Blackwell. The operator, Ms. Lucas, was not present. I asked Ms. Blackwell to contact Ms. Lucas and inform her of the visit. Ms. Lucas didn’t respond back to Ms. Blackwell’s attempts to reach her before the visit concluded. The center maintained a three-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 #1-3, kitchen, outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored, napping on cots and or mats in two spaces #1 and #3. Eighteen children were monitored enrolled. Two children’s records were selected and monitored for compliance. Staff and Training worksheets were requested to be emailed to me prior to the visit. The worksheets were not received from the operator. The previous existing staff and training worksheets were reviewed and required items were monitored for three staff. Ms. Blackwell was asked to have Ms. Lucas email me the current staff and training worksheets by close of business. The center’s EPR plan was monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not current. The previous licensing consultant and contact information were listed instead of the existing consultant. The EPR- Ready to Go File was also monitored for compliance. There were five former enrolled children’s emergency contact information forms that were not removed from the EPR-Ready to Go File. The center’s EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. Ms. Blackwell was asked if any children had medications maintained on site. Ms. Blackwell stated no medications were maintained on site for children. The posted allergy list was no longer current based on the one child listed was no longer enrolled or attending the center. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored. The daily attendance with children’s arrival and departure times were monitored documented and current for today. Lesson plans were monitored current. Posted feeding schedules and the center’s current ITS-SIDS plan were monitored posted and current. Ms. Blackwell stated transportation was being provided to children occasionally. Transportation requirements have not been monitored for compliance by DCDEE. Please refrain from providing any transportation until transportation requirements are monitored and determined to meet all requirements. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. Monthly inspections were monitored completed. The wooden ramp used to get children outside to the playground and during fire drills was monitored in poor condition. The railings were not secured and moved with little to no touch/push. The wooden railings and floorboards were worn, warped with exposed hardware and splinters throughout. Concerns were raised as to the overall safety of the ramp. It was recommended to have the ramp inspected by a professional or potentially Mecklenburg Building and Standards inspector. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on February 20, 2025, (9) nine demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. A three-point demerit was cited related to pest control. The general comment was listed, “Observed several bugs crawling in the kitchen on the countertop, the oven and in cabinets. A bug was also observed crawling in the hallway restroom.” Ms. Blackwell stated it was reported to her by Ms. Lucas that the building was exterminated over the weekend. No documentation showing an extermination occurred over the weekend was provided. Today, live roaches of all sizes were observed in the kitchen, kitchen cabinets, on the floors, between the refrigerator/wall, crawling up the wall on the outside of the kitchen in space #3, on the floors of space #3. Dead roaches were monitored on the kitchen floor. One extermination was not enough to eradicate the building of roaches. A written and detailed plan from a licensed exterminator will be required. A final written statement from the exterminator indicating the pests were eradicated from the building will be required. The last annual fire inspection was completed on February 23, 2024. A completed annual fire inspection report dated February 21, 2025, was located on the couch in the office. Ms. Blackwell was asked to remind Ms. Lucas to submit a completed inspection report within one week of the inspection visit. The fire inspector must complete, sign and date the DCDEE annual fire inspection report. The final visit summary could not be printed due to printer/copier issues. The final summary will be emailed to the operator within twenty-four (24) hours. The visit summary was reviewed with Ms. Blackwell prior to my departure: #9995-Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. Live roaches and roach eggs were monitored throughout the kitchen area and other spaces within the center. The sanitation rule was reviewed with Ms. Blackwell during the visit. #721-The wooden ramp leading to the outdoor play area and used for evacuation and monthly fire drills was monitored in poor condition with exposed hardware, splinters, raised/warped floorboards, loose railings. The chain link fence separating the property was monitored in poor condition, leaning over and top rails not connected properly. #1867-There was one stationary piece of equipment. At least six inches of mulch was not present. #808-There were many fallen leaves throughout the outdoor play environment. Leaves must be removed and not just blown into the fenced corners. #1823-The Ready to Go File was not current. Five children no longer enrolled were monitored in the file. The center’s EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. It was recommended to place all required documents in a three-inch ring binder instead of a one-inch binder. #1824-The center’s EPR plan was not current. The previous licensing consultants contact information was listed. #1899-Ms. Lucas did not have documentation on file showing completion of the five-year renewal for H & S training (Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment). #508-The posted allergy list was not current (child listed no longer enrolled). Violation Number Comment Rule 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. The posted allergy list in the kitchen, space #1, and in the EPR-Ready to Go File were not current. .0901(g) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden ramp leading to the outdoor play area and used for evacuation and monthly fire drills was monitored in poor condition with exposed hardware, splinters, raised/warped floorboards, loose railings. The chain link fence separating the property from the next residence was monitored in poor condition, leaning over and top rails not connected properly. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There were many fallen leaves throughout the outdoor play environment. The monitored leaves were built up in the corners of the fenced in play areas. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 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. Five formerly enrolled children were still maintained in the file. The center's printed EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. .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 the previously assigned consultant and contact information were listed. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The outdoor stationary play equipment was not placed over at least six inches of protective surfacing. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 A. Lucas didn't have documentation on file showing completion of the five-year renewal for CMT training. .1103(b) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 (b) Animal and Vermin Control. Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. Several live roaches were monitored in the kitchen, space #3, and space #1. 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 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. 2. We discussed submitting CBC requalification’s in six-month increments (June and January). CBC renewals may be submitted six months prior to expiration. 3. Ms. Lucas and I discussed correcting the enhanced standards the center is required to maintain during the last visit. When the center transitioned from a temporary license to a star rated license, the lead consultant didn’t list Ms. Lucas’s selected option for programmatic points of meeting enhanced ratios. Ms. Lucas stated she desired to meet enhanced ratios only. A permit packet will be submitted to reflect the correction once the facility is in full compliance. 4. 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). 5. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 (b) Animal and Vermin Control. Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. 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, March 10, 2025. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail 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: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: MARA BRINTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 11:30 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements during the Annual Compliance Visit. Upon arrival at the center, I was greeted at the infant/toddler door by the on-site administrator, Ms. Blackwell. The operator, Ms. Lucas, was not present. I asked Ms. Blackwell to contact Ms. Lucas and inform her of the visit. Ms. Lucas didn’t respond back to Ms. Blackwell’s attempts to reach her before the visit concluded. The center maintained a three-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 #1-3, kitchen, outdoor learning environment were monitored for compliance. Children were monitored, napping on cots and or mats in two spaces #1 and #3. Eighteen children were monitored enrolled. Two children’s records were selected and monitored for compliance. Staff and Training worksheets were requested to be emailed to me prior to the visit. The worksheets were not received from the operator. The previous existing staff and training worksheets were reviewed and required items were monitored for three staff. Ms. Blackwell was asked to have Ms. Lucas email me the current staff and training worksheets by close of business. The center’s EPR plan was monitored for compliance. The EPR plan was not current. The previous licensing consultant and contact information were listed instead of the existing consultant. The EPR- Ready to Go File was also monitored for compliance. There were five former enrolled children’s emergency contact information forms that were not removed from the EPR-Ready to Go File. The center’s EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. Ms. Blackwell was asked if any children had medications maintained on site. Ms. Blackwell stated no medications were maintained on site for children. The posted allergy list was no longer current based on the one child listed was no longer enrolled or attending the center. Documentation for quarterly safety drills and monthly fire drills were discussed and monitored. The daily attendance with children’s arrival and departure times were monitored documented and current for today. Lesson plans were monitored current. Posted feeding schedules and the center’s current ITS-SIDS plan were monitored posted and current. Ms. Blackwell stated transportation was being provided to children occasionally. Transportation requirements have not been monitored for compliance by DCDEE. Please refrain from providing any transportation until transportation requirements are monitored and determined to meet all requirements. The outdoor learning environment was monitored for compliance. Monthly inspections were monitored completed. The wooden ramp used to get children outside to the playground and during fire drills was monitored in poor condition. The railings were not secured and moved with little to no touch/push. The wooden railings and floorboards were worn, warped with exposed hardware and splinters throughout. Concerns were raised as to the overall safety of the ramp. It was recommended to have the ramp inspected by a professional or potentially Mecklenburg Building and Standards inspector. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on February 20, 2025, (9) nine demerits cited, and a Superior Classification issued. A three-point demerit was cited related to pest control. The general comment was listed, “Observed several bugs crawling in the kitchen on the countertop, the oven and in cabinets. A bug was also observed crawling in the hallway restroom.” Ms. Blackwell stated it was reported to her by Ms. Lucas that the building was exterminated over the weekend. No documentation showing an extermination occurred over the weekend was provided. Today, live roaches of all sizes were observed in the kitchen, kitchen cabinets, on the floors, between the refrigerator/wall, crawling up the wall on the outside of the kitchen in space #3, on the floors of space #3. Dead roaches were monitored on the kitchen floor. One extermination was not enough to eradicate the building of roaches. A written and detailed plan from a licensed exterminator will be required. A final written statement from the exterminator indicating the pests were eradicated from the building will be required. The last annual fire inspection was completed on February 23, 2024. A completed annual fire inspection report dated February 21, 2025, was located on the couch in the office. Ms. Blackwell was asked to remind Ms. Lucas to submit a completed inspection report within one week of the inspection visit. The fire inspector must complete, sign and date the DCDEE annual fire inspection report. The final visit summary could not be printed due to printer/copier issues. The final summary will be emailed to the operator within twenty-four (24) hours. The visit summary was reviewed with Ms. Blackwell prior to my departure: #9995-Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. Live roaches and roach eggs were monitored throughout the kitchen area and other spaces within the center. The sanitation rule was reviewed with Ms. Blackwell during the visit. #721-The wooden ramp leading to the outdoor play area and used for evacuation and monthly fire drills was monitored in poor condition with exposed hardware, splinters, raised/warped floorboards, loose railings. The chain link fence separating the property was monitored in poor condition, leaning over and top rails not connected properly. #1867-There was one stationary piece of equipment. At least six inches of mulch was not present. #808-There were many fallen leaves throughout the outdoor play environment. Leaves must be removed and not just blown into the fenced corners. #1823-The Ready to Go File was not current. Five children no longer enrolled were monitored in the file. The center’s EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. It was recommended to place all required documents in a three-inch ring binder instead of a one-inch binder. #1824-The center’s EPR plan was not current. The previous licensing consultants contact information was listed. #1899-Ms. Lucas did not have documentation on file showing completion of the five-year renewal for H & S training (Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment). #508-The posted allergy list was not current (child listed no longer enrolled). Violation Number Comment Rule 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. The posted allergy list in the kitchen, space #1, and in the EPR-Ready to Go File were not current. .0901(g) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The wooden ramp leading to the outdoor play area and used for evacuation and monthly fire drills was monitored in poor condition with exposed hardware, splinters, raised/warped floorboards, loose railings. The chain link fence separating the property from the next residence was monitored in poor condition, leaning over and top rails not connected properly. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. There were many fallen leaves throughout the outdoor play environment. The monitored leaves were built up in the corners of the fenced in play areas. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 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. Five formerly enrolled children were still maintained in the file. The center's printed EPR plan was not maintained with the Ready to Go File. .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 the previously assigned consultant and contact information were listed. .0607(e) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The outdoor stationary play equipment was not placed over at least six inches of protective surfacing. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 A. Lucas didn't have documentation on file showing completion of the five-year renewal for CMT training. .1103(b) 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 (b) Animal and Vermin Control. Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. Several live roaches were monitored in the kitchen, space #3, and space #1. 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 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. 2. We discussed submitting CBC requalification’s in six-month increments (June and January). CBC renewals may be submitted six months prior to expiration. 3. Ms. Lucas and I discussed correcting the enhanced standards the center is required to maintain during the last visit. When the center transitioned from a temporary license to a star rated license, the lead consultant didn’t list Ms. Lucas’s selected option for programmatic points of meeting enhanced ratios. Ms. Lucas stated she desired to meet enhanced ratios only. A permit packet will be submitted to reflect the correction once the facility is in full compliance. 4. 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). 5. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 (b) Animal and Vermin Control. Pests shall be excluded from the child care center. 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, March 10, 2025. You may email me with your letter of correction. Mail 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 .0514 · Violation
Name of Operation: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/28/2024 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 2/28/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. The program currently operates with a Probationary license with an effective date of March 27, 2024 to March 27, 2024. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by the Director, S. Blackwell. I stated the reason for the visit. The Director assisted me with today’s visit. The Probationary License, Notice of Administrative Action, Cover Letter, and the Corrective Action Plan were posted at the main entrance of the facility. As of June 21, 2023, the facility completed all stipulations of the Corrective Action Plan. The facility’s last annual compliance visit was conducted on March 30, 2023. A sanitation inspection was completed August 18, 2023 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on February 23, 2024 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The last fire drill was conducted on February 12, 2024 and a lockdown drill on December 6, 2023. A walk-through of the center was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in the indoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, teacher directed activities, personal care routines and lunch. Lunch consisted of baked chicken, macaroni and cheese, broccoli, bananas, and milk. Staff were observed assisting children with personal care routines, leading group time and supervising free choice activities. Ten percent of children’s records were monitored. The Staff and Training Worksheets were received today. Ten percent of existing staff files and one new staff member file was monitored. Rated License: The hold harmless legislation was extended and signed into law on Monday June 12th, 2023. This legislation allows facilities to remain at their current star level without a reassessment until June 30, 2024, and when reassessed it reduces the education evaluation requirements for lead teachers from 75% to 50% until June of 2026. To prepare for the reassessment process, DCDEE has developed a cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. The facility is in cohort #2 which means their preparation year will begin July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, with a reassessment year of July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026. Since the facility held a Three Star Rated License prior to the Probationary License being issued, paperwork will be submitted to issue the facility a Three Star Rated License once violations cited today are confirmed corrected. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 402 Each child's diapers were not changed at areas designated exclusively for diapering, on a surface that was smooth, nonabsorbent, easily cleanable and of tight construction. In space #3, the diapering changing mat had a large torn place in the middle of the mat. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(a) & (b) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. Throughout the facility, paint was peeling on the walls and baseboards. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In space #1, there were four bottles of glitter stored on an open shelf accessible to the children. A warning on the bottles stated "ages 6+. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. The first aid kit located in the van used to transport children contained Diphen antihistamine, triple antibiotic ointment, non-aspirin acetaminophen and first aid and burn cream. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff member did not have verification on file that an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan had been completed. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. Permission for one child's chronic medication expired December 2023. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) 9999 A violation was found for which there is no item number. In child care centers, toilet tissue paper shall be provided in each toilet room and stored in a clean, dry place. The toilet room shall include or be adjacent to a handwash lavatory. Storage in toilet rooms shall be limited to toileting and diapering supplies. All toilet fixtures shall be kept clean and in good repair. Toilet fixtures shall be child-sized, adult-sized toilets that are adapted to accommodate children, or potty chairs. The handle used for flushing the toilet in the restroom was broken therefore, the toilet could not be flushed. This is a violation of 15A NCAC 18A .2817(a) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 13, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov The following technical assistance was provided: A discussion was held with the Director regarding violations cited today. -Glitter was observed in a classroom occupied by children three years of age and up. I showed the Director that the bottles of glitter had a warning which stated it was for children six years of age and up. I also explained that glitter is considered an eye irritant if a child were to get it in their eyes. -I observed that the handle on one of the toilets in the restroom was broken therefore the toilet could not be flushed. The Director stated that it was broken as of yesterday. The Owner stated she would replace the entire toilet by this weekend. There is a second toilet in the restroom that children are currently using. The Director was reminded that the facility is required to have at least one toilet for every fifteen children. Based on enrollment, the facility is meeting the requirement. -All walls, baseboards and ceiling must be free of peeling/chipping paint. I reminded the Director that peeling paint must be repaired unless something can be placed over the peeling paint that would prevent access by the children. -The mat on the diaper changing table in space #3 had a large torn place in the covering in the middle of the mat. The Director stated that the Owner had gone to purchase a new one. She arrived with a new mat during the visit. All equipment and furnishings must be in good repair. Daily classroom monitoring by staff is recommended to ensure equipment and furnishings remain in good repair. -The first aid kit in the vehicle used to transport children contained Diphen antihistamine, triple antibiotic ointment, non-aspirin acetaminophen and first aid and burn cream. The kit still had tape on it and had never been opened. The Owner stated that she didn’t know what the kit contained. I suggested that in the future for the administrators to make a kit instead of purchasing one that way they can be sure it doesn’t contain hazardous items. -A discussion was held with the Director regarding requirements for a staff annual evaluation and professional development plan. Both must be completed annually. A suggestion was made for the Director to place due dates on her calendar as a reminder. -Permission to administer an emergency medication for one child had expired. I reminded the Director a parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to six months to administer prescription or over-the-counter medication to a child, when needed, for chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, and for allergic reactions and standing authorization for up to 12 months to apply over-the-counter, topical ointments, topical teething ointment or gel, insect repellents, lotions, creams, fluoridated toothpaste, and powders, such as sunscreen, diapering creams, baby lotion, and baby powder. 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/28/2024 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 2/28/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. The program currently operates with a Probationary license with an effective date of March 27, 2024 to March 27, 2024. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by the Director, S. Blackwell. I stated the reason for the visit. The Director assisted me with today’s visit. The Probationary License, Notice of Administrative Action, Cover Letter, and the Corrective Action Plan were posted at the main entrance of the facility. As of June 21, 2023, the facility completed all stipulations of the Corrective Action Plan. The facility’s last annual compliance visit was conducted on March 30, 2023. A sanitation inspection was completed August 18, 2023 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on February 23, 2024 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The last fire drill was conducted on February 12, 2024 and a lockdown drill on December 6, 2023. A walk-through of the center was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in the indoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, teacher directed activities, personal care routines and lunch. Lunch consisted of baked chicken, macaroni and cheese, broccoli, bananas, and milk. Staff were observed assisting children with personal care routines, leading group time and supervising free choice activities. Ten percent of children’s records were monitored. The Staff and Training Worksheets were received today. Ten percent of existing staff files and one new staff member file was monitored. Rated License: The hold harmless legislation was extended and signed into law on Monday June 12th, 2023. This legislation allows facilities to remain at their current star level without a reassessment until June 30, 2024, and when reassessed it reduces the education evaluation requirements for lead teachers from 75% to 50% until June of 2026. To prepare for the reassessment process, DCDEE has developed a cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. The facility is in cohort #2 which means their preparation year will begin July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, with a reassessment year of July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026. Since the facility held a Three Star Rated License prior to the Probationary License being issued, paperwork will be submitted to issue the facility a Three Star Rated License once violations cited today are confirmed corrected. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 402 Each child's diapers were not changed at areas designated exclusively for diapering, on a surface that was smooth, nonabsorbent, easily cleanable and of tight construction. In space #3, the diapering changing mat had a large torn place in the middle of the mat. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(a) & (b) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. Throughout the facility, paint was peeling on the walls and baseboards. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In space #1, there were four bottles of glitter stored on an open shelf accessible to the children. A warning on the bottles stated "ages 6+. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. The first aid kit located in the van used to transport children contained Diphen antihistamine, triple antibiotic ointment, non-aspirin acetaminophen and first aid and burn cream. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff member did not have verification on file that an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan had been completed. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. Permission for one child's chronic medication expired December 2023. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) 9999 A violation was found for which there is no item number. In child care centers, toilet tissue paper shall be provided in each toilet room and stored in a clean, dry place. The toilet room shall include or be adjacent to a handwash lavatory. Storage in toilet rooms shall be limited to toileting and diapering supplies. All toilet fixtures shall be kept clean and in good repair. Toilet fixtures shall be child-sized, adult-sized toilets that are adapted to accommodate children, or potty chairs. The handle used for flushing the toilet in the restroom was broken therefore, the toilet could not be flushed. This is a violation of 15A NCAC 18A .2817(a) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 13, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov The following technical assistance was provided: A discussion was held with the Director regarding violations cited today. -Glitter was observed in a classroom occupied by children three years of age and up. I showed the Director that the bottles of glitter had a warning which stated it was for children six years of age and up. I also explained that glitter is considered an eye irritant if a child were to get it in their eyes. -I observed that the handle on one of the toilets in the restroom was broken therefore the toilet could not be flushed. The Director stated that it was broken as of yesterday. The Owner stated she would replace the entire toilet by this weekend. There is a second toilet in the restroom that children are currently using. The Director was reminded that the facility is required to have at least one toilet for every fifteen children. Based on enrollment, the facility is meeting the requirement. -All walls, baseboards and ceiling must be free of peeling/chipping paint. I reminded the Director that peeling paint must be repaired unless something can be placed over the peeling paint that would prevent access by the children. -The mat on the diaper changing table in space #3 had a large torn place in the covering in the middle of the mat. The Director stated that the Owner had gone to purchase a new one. She arrived with a new mat during the visit. All equipment and furnishings must be in good repair. Daily classroom monitoring by staff is recommended to ensure equipment and furnishings remain in good repair. -The first aid kit in the vehicle used to transport children contained Diphen antihistamine, triple antibiotic ointment, non-aspirin acetaminophen and first aid and burn cream. The kit still had tape on it and had never been opened. The Owner stated that she didn’t know what the kit contained. I suggested that in the future for the administrators to make a kit instead of purchasing one that way they can be sure it doesn’t contain hazardous items. -A discussion was held with the Director regarding requirements for a staff annual evaluation and professional development plan. Both must be completed annually. A suggestion was made for the Director to place due dates on her calendar as a reminder. -Permission to administer an emergency medication for one child had expired. I reminded the Director a parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to six months to administer prescription or over-the-counter medication to a child, when needed, for chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, and for allergic reactions and standing authorization for up to 12 months to apply over-the-counter, topical ointments, topical teething ointment or gel, insect repellents, lotions, creams, fluoridated toothpaste, and powders, such as sunscreen, diapering creams, baby lotion, and baby powder. 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 .0714 · Violation
Name of Operation: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/13/2023 Number Present: 13 Completed Date: 11/13/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 145 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 12:45 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 compliance with applicable child care rules and child care requirements identified in the facility's Corrective Action Plan for the Administrative Action issued on March 27, 2023. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by the Director, S. Blackwell. I stated the reason for the visit. The Director was caring for an infant to assist with staff/child ratios therefore, I conducted a walk-through of the facility. Children were observed participating in free choice of outdoor play, transitions and lunch. Lunch consisted of baked chicken with rice and gravy, corn, apples and milk. During the visit today, the facility was monitored for compliance with supervision, staff/child ratio, CPR, first aid, special training, storage of hazardous products, storage of medication, adequate/approved space, staff records, programs records, license posted, and permit restrictions. There have been no new staff hired since the last visit on October 10, 2023. I reviewed the Staff and Training Worksheet to confirm staff were still current with First Aid, CPR, ITS-SIDS training and criminal background checks. A fire drill was conducted on November 9, 2023, and a lockdown drill on September 22, 2023. Playground inspections were monitored today and occur monthly as required. The Probationary License, Notice of Administrative Action, Cover Letter, and The Corrective Action Plan were posted near the entrance of the facility. The Corrective Action Plan was completed as of June 21, 2023. The facility’s approved plan regarding adequate supervision and staff/child ratios is in a file in the Director’s office. There was one violation cited and corrected today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space #1, the attendance for today has not been documented. GS 110-91(9) Technical Assistance/General Information: In space #1, the attendance for today had not been documented. I reminded the Director that attendance must be completed as the children arrive each day. Today, the Director asked how many hours she was required to spend performing administrative duties per week. Based on licensed capacity, she is required to spend at least 20 hours a week overseeing the administrative duties of the facility. 10A NCAC 09 .0714 OTHER STAFFING REQUIREMENTS (a) Each child care center shall have a child care administrator who shall be responsible for monitoring the program and overseeing administrative duties of the center. This requirement may be met by having one or more persons on site who meet the requirements for a child care administrator as set forth in G.S. 110-91(8) and according to the licensed capacity of the center. The child care administrator’s required weekly hours may include those hours that he or she is off-site due to administrative duties, illness or vacation. Staffing patterns were discussed with the Director regarding morning arrival times for children. During the visit, it was observed that children had been moved to different classrooms to cover staff/child ratios. I encourage staff present at opening of the facility to remain on site until it has been confirmed if all children have arrived for the day. I also suggested the Director request parents to notify the facility as soon as they know their children will be out for the day. 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
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
G.S. 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/13/2023 Number Present: 13 Completed Date: 11/13/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 145 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 12:45 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 compliance with applicable child care rules and child care requirements identified in the facility's Corrective Action Plan for the Administrative Action issued on March 27, 2023. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by the Director, S. Blackwell. I stated the reason for the visit. The Director was caring for an infant to assist with staff/child ratios therefore, I conducted a walk-through of the facility. Children were observed participating in free choice of outdoor play, transitions and lunch. Lunch consisted of baked chicken with rice and gravy, corn, apples and milk. During the visit today, the facility was monitored for compliance with supervision, staff/child ratio, CPR, first aid, special training, storage of hazardous products, storage of medication, adequate/approved space, staff records, programs records, license posted, and permit restrictions. There have been no new staff hired since the last visit on October 10, 2023. I reviewed the Staff and Training Worksheet to confirm staff were still current with First Aid, CPR, ITS-SIDS training and criminal background checks. A fire drill was conducted on November 9, 2023, and a lockdown drill on September 22, 2023. Playground inspections were monitored today and occur monthly as required. The Probationary License, Notice of Administrative Action, Cover Letter, and The Corrective Action Plan were posted near the entrance of the facility. The Corrective Action Plan was completed as of June 21, 2023. The facility’s approved plan regarding adequate supervision and staff/child ratios is in a file in the Director’s office. There was one violation cited and corrected today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space #1, the attendance for today has not been documented. GS 110-91(9) Technical Assistance/General Information: In space #1, the attendance for today had not been documented. I reminded the Director that attendance must be completed as the children arrive each day. Today, the Director asked how many hours she was required to spend performing administrative duties per week. Based on licensed capacity, she is required to spend at least 20 hours a week overseeing the administrative duties of the facility. 10A NCAC 09 .0714 OTHER STAFFING REQUIREMENTS (a) Each child care center shall have a child care administrator who shall be responsible for monitoring the program and overseeing administrative duties of the center. This requirement may be met by having one or more persons on site who meet the requirements for a child care administrator as set forth in G.S. 110-91(8) and according to the licensed capacity of the center. The child care administrator’s required weekly hours may include those hours that he or she is off-site due to administrative duties, illness or vacation. Staffing patterns were discussed with the Director regarding morning arrival times for children. During the visit, it was observed that children had been moved to different classrooms to cover staff/child ratios. I encourage staff present at opening of the facility to remain on site until it has been confirmed if all children have arrived for the day. I also suggested the Director request parents to notify the facility as soon as they know their children will be out for the day. 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
GS 110-91 · Violation
Name of Operation: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/13/2023 Number Present: 13 Completed Date: 11/13/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 145 Time In: 10:20 AM Time Out: 12:45 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 compliance with applicable child care rules and child care requirements identified in the facility's Corrective Action Plan for the Administrative Action issued on March 27, 2023. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by the Director, S. Blackwell. I stated the reason for the visit. The Director was caring for an infant to assist with staff/child ratios therefore, I conducted a walk-through of the facility. Children were observed participating in free choice of outdoor play, transitions and lunch. Lunch consisted of baked chicken with rice and gravy, corn, apples and milk. During the visit today, the facility was monitored for compliance with supervision, staff/child ratio, CPR, first aid, special training, storage of hazardous products, storage of medication, adequate/approved space, staff records, programs records, license posted, and permit restrictions. There have been no new staff hired since the last visit on October 10, 2023. I reviewed the Staff and Training Worksheet to confirm staff were still current with First Aid, CPR, ITS-SIDS training and criminal background checks. A fire drill was conducted on November 9, 2023, and a lockdown drill on September 22, 2023. Playground inspections were monitored today and occur monthly as required. The Probationary License, Notice of Administrative Action, Cover Letter, and The Corrective Action Plan were posted near the entrance of the facility. The Corrective Action Plan was completed as of June 21, 2023. The facility’s approved plan regarding adequate supervision and staff/child ratios is in a file in the Director’s office. There was one violation cited and corrected today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1301 Center did not maintain a record of daily attendance. In space #1, the attendance for today has not been documented. GS 110-91(9) Technical Assistance/General Information: In space #1, the attendance for today had not been documented. I reminded the Director that attendance must be completed as the children arrive each day. Today, the Director asked how many hours she was required to spend performing administrative duties per week. Based on licensed capacity, she is required to spend at least 20 hours a week overseeing the administrative duties of the facility. 10A NCAC 09 .0714 OTHER STAFFING REQUIREMENTS (a) Each child care center shall have a child care administrator who shall be responsible for monitoring the program and overseeing administrative duties of the center. This requirement may be met by having one or more persons on site who meet the requirements for a child care administrator as set forth in G.S. 110-91(8) and according to the licensed capacity of the center. The child care administrator’s required weekly hours may include those hours that he or she is off-site due to administrative duties, illness or vacation. Staffing patterns were discussed with the Director regarding morning arrival times for children. During the visit, it was observed that children had been moved to different classrooms to cover staff/child ratios. I encourage staff present at opening of the facility to remain on site until it has been confirmed if all children have arrived for the day. I also suggested the Director request parents to notify the facility as soon as they know their children will be out for the day. 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: FIRST STOP DAYCARE Facility ID: 60003956 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/27/2023 Number Present: 13 Completed Date: 7/27/2023 Age: From 0 To 7 Total Minutes: 125 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 12:05 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 compliance with applicable child care rules and child care requirements identified in the facility's Corrective Action Plan for the Administrative Action issued on March 27, 2023. Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant accompanied me on today’s visit. Upon my arrival, we were greeted by the Director, S. Blackwell. I stated the reason for the visit. A walk through of the facility was conducted with the Director. Children were observed participating in teacher directed activities, and free choice of indoor and outdoor activities. Staff members were observed participating and supervising activities. Today, the facility was monitored for compliance with supervision, staff/child ratio, CPR, first aid, special training, storage of hazardous products, storage of medication, adequate/approved space, staff records, programs records, license posted, and permit restrictions. An updated copy of the Staff and Training Worksheet was received today. Two new staff members have been hired since the last visit conducted on June 21, 2023. Both files were monitored during today’s visit. A fire drill was conducted on June 9, 2023, and a lockdown drill on June March 28, 2023. Playground inspections were monitored today and occurring monthly as required. The Probationary License, Notice of Administrative Action, Cover Letter, and The Corrective Action Plan were posted near the entrance of the facility. The Corrective Action Plan was completed as of June 21, 2023. There was one violation cited and corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. In space #3, there was a tube of diaper cream that was not labeled with the child's name. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Technical Assistance/General Information: During the walk through of the facility, a staff member’s glass bottle of Clearly Canadian sparkling water was located on a bottom shelf of a cubby which made it accessible to the children. Although sparkling water meets nutritional value, all beverages should be placed in a non-breakable drinking container. A conversation was held with the Director regarding the violation cited. Below is the rule reference for the violation. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (6) A parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to six months to administer prescription or over-the-counter medication to a child, when needed, for chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, and for allergic reactions. The authorization shall be in writing and shall contain: (a) the child's name; (b) the subject medical conditions or allergic reactions; (c) the names of the authorized over-the-counter medications; (d) the criteria for the administration of the medication; (e) the amount and frequency of the dosages; (f) the manner in which the medication shall be administered; (g) the signature of the parent; (h) the date the authorization was signed by the parent; and (i) the length of time the authorization is valid, if less than six months. (7) A parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to 12 months to apply over-the-counter, topical ointments, topical teething ointment or gel, insect repellents, lotions, creams, fluoridated toothpaste, and powders, such as sunscreen, diapering creams, baby lotion, and baby powder, to a child, when needed. The authorization shall be in writing and shall contain: (a) the child's name; (b) the names of the authorized ointments, repellents, lotions, creams, fluoridated toothpaste, and powders; (c) the criteria for the administration of the ointments, repellents, lotions, creams, fluoridated toothpaste, and powders; (d) the manner in which the ointments, repellents, lotions, creams, fluoridated toothpaste, and powders shall be applied; (e) the signature of the parent; (f) the date the authorization was signed by the parent; and (g) the length of time the authorization is valid, if less than 12 months. 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
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