10A NCAC 09 .1714 · Violation

Name of Operation: GRACIOUS GIFTS IN-HOME CHILD CARE Facility ID: 60004234 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 10/23/2024 Number Present: 3 Completed Date: 10/23/2024 Age: From 0 To 2 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home 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. I was greeted by Ms. Tatum Grace, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Four (4) children arrived during the visit. I observed the children participating in Music and Movement, and I observed the children having supervised independent play. The facility has a Five-Star Rated License issued March 27, 2023. The last annual compliance visit was conducted November 2, 2023. The sanitation inspection was completed September 18, 2024, with a zero (0) Demerit Score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-nine (99) percent as of October 22, 2024. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on October 23, 2024 and Gracious Gifts In-Home Childcare LLC, was listed as active-not current; a violation was cited. The facility was monitored today with the Family Child Care Home Monitoring Checklist and the Family Child Care Home Item Number Listing. A copy of the checklist was provided to Ms. Tatum after the visit. The following was observed posted: Current License, NC Summary of Child Care Law, Schedule, Activity Plan, First Aid Sheet, and Emergency Numbers. Monthly Fire Drills, Shelter-in-Place/Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspections, the Emergency Medical Care Plan, Incident log, and the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan were observed. The EPR Plan was last updated March 12, 2024. The fire drills and shelter-in-place/lockdown drills met compliance; the outdoor play inspections met compliance. Ms. Grace is using an approved curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The daily attendance and arrival and departure times were reviewed and met compliance. The child care facility, including the bathroom, child care room, kitchen, and outdoor play area was monitored during the visit. Soap and toilet paper were available in the bathroom for use. The toys and equipment were in good repair. In the kitchen, there was a working fire extinguisher, working thermometer in the refrigerator, and smoke detectors. Ms. Grace's file was monitored and observed for Health Questionnaire, Emergency Information, First Aid and CPR, and Criminal Qualifying Letter; met the required number of annual ongoing training hours. Ms. Grace's oldest daughter has a current criminal background check letter on file. The children’s files were monitored today, and a violation was cited for an expired Off-Premise form. The outdoor play area was clean, and the toys were in good repair. A violation was cited for two (2) items that was accessible to children under five (5) years of age. Ms. Grace does not have any pets. There are children enrolled with allergies. Medications were reviewed and compliance was met. Ms. Tatum does not provide transportation and a vehicle was available in case of an emergency. Three (3) violation were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 1544 The child care operator did not comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. The facility was not listed as current and active on the NC Secretary of State website. GS 110-91 2004 For off-premise activities occurring on regular basis, the standing permission for 12 months had expired. The off-premise form expired October 1, 2024, for child (C.D.J). .1723(15)(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before November 6, 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 will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -On June 12, 2023 Governor Cooper signed Session Law 2023-40; Senate Bill 291. This law extends the hold harmless status for facilities operating with a star rated license until June 30, 2024. Additionally, it extends the reduced percentage of lead teachers that must meet the point levels from 75% to 50% until June 30, 2026. Scales are voluntary at this time. Your facility is due 2026. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -The facility was not listed as current-active on The NC Secretary of State Website. The child care operator must comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. Refer to G.S. 110-91. -Jump ropes must not be accessible to children under five (5) years of age without adult supervision. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1719(a)(19). -Ensure that all off-premise forms are current for each child enrolled. For off-premise activities occurring on regular basis, the standing permission is for 12 months; maintain off-premise forms. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1724(15)(b). -It was noticed that a smoke detector was "chirping," due to low battery. The detector was functioning; replace batteries. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1707(3). -The provider’s son will turn sixteen (16) on September 15, 2025.Schedule an appointment to obtain an I.D. for fingerprints and criminal background check before the sixteenth birthday. A current criminal background check is required and letter on file for those sixteen years-old and older residing in the home. Refer to G.S. 110-90.2 & Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(q). -The Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care Training Plan must be on the template provided by the Division and the plan must be available for review; update the plan annually. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1714(c) & (e). -Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. -The program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. Ms. Grace water was tested April 10, 2024. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. • After the visit Ms. Grace reached out to Michele Sullivan to grieve a violation regarding jump ropes being accessible to children under five years old. Her disagreement with the violation is due to the fact that she was supervising the children at all times and the rule states “jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision”. • Ms. Sullivan discussed the grievance with both the consultant and Jeff Gaster, Program Manager. • It was determined that the violation was cited correctly because the jump ropes were being stored in a way that was accessible to children under five years old however; based on the provider’s understanding of “without adult supervision” the violation is being removed. • Ms. Sullivan spoke to Ms. Grace and explained that we understand she was outside with the children and adequately supervising the children however; the intent of the rule is that the jump ropes are only accessible if the children are using them during a supervised activity and they should be inaccessible when stored. • Technical assistance regarding this rule was provided to Ms. Grace. This violation will be cited in the future if jump ropes are observed stored in a way that makes them accessible to children under five years old The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .1719 · Violation

Name of Operation: GRACIOUS GIFTS IN-HOME CHILD CARE Facility ID: 60004234 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 10/23/2024 Number Present: 3 Completed Date: 10/23/2024 Age: From 0 To 2 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home 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. I was greeted by Ms. Tatum Grace, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Four (4) children arrived during the visit. I observed the children participating in Music and Movement, and I observed the children having supervised independent play. The facility has a Five-Star Rated License issued March 27, 2023. The last annual compliance visit was conducted November 2, 2023. The sanitation inspection was completed September 18, 2024, with a zero (0) Demerit Score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-nine (99) percent as of October 22, 2024. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on October 23, 2024 and Gracious Gifts In-Home Childcare LLC, was listed as active-not current; a violation was cited. The facility was monitored today with the Family Child Care Home Monitoring Checklist and the Family Child Care Home Item Number Listing. A copy of the checklist was provided to Ms. Tatum after the visit. The following was observed posted: Current License, NC Summary of Child Care Law, Schedule, Activity Plan, First Aid Sheet, and Emergency Numbers. Monthly Fire Drills, Shelter-in-Place/Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspections, the Emergency Medical Care Plan, Incident log, and the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan were observed. The EPR Plan was last updated March 12, 2024. The fire drills and shelter-in-place/lockdown drills met compliance; the outdoor play inspections met compliance. Ms. Grace is using an approved curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The daily attendance and arrival and departure times were reviewed and met compliance. The child care facility, including the bathroom, child care room, kitchen, and outdoor play area was monitored during the visit. Soap and toilet paper were available in the bathroom for use. The toys and equipment were in good repair. In the kitchen, there was a working fire extinguisher, working thermometer in the refrigerator, and smoke detectors. Ms. Grace's file was monitored and observed for Health Questionnaire, Emergency Information, First Aid and CPR, and Criminal Qualifying Letter; met the required number of annual ongoing training hours. Ms. Grace's oldest daughter has a current criminal background check letter on file. The children’s files were monitored today, and a violation was cited for an expired Off-Premise form. The outdoor play area was clean, and the toys were in good repair. A violation was cited for two (2) items that was accessible to children under five (5) years of age. Ms. Grace does not have any pets. There are children enrolled with allergies. Medications were reviewed and compliance was met. Ms. Tatum does not provide transportation and a vehicle was available in case of an emergency. Three (3) violation were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 1544 The child care operator did not comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. The facility was not listed as current and active on the NC Secretary of State website. GS 110-91 2004 For off-premise activities occurring on regular basis, the standing permission for 12 months had expired. The off-premise form expired October 1, 2024, for child (C.D.J). .1723(15)(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before November 6, 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 will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -On June 12, 2023 Governor Cooper signed Session Law 2023-40; Senate Bill 291. This law extends the hold harmless status for facilities operating with a star rated license until June 30, 2024. Additionally, it extends the reduced percentage of lead teachers that must meet the point levels from 75% to 50% until June 30, 2026. Scales are voluntary at this time. Your facility is due 2026. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -The facility was not listed as current-active on The NC Secretary of State Website. The child care operator must comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. Refer to G.S. 110-91. -Jump ropes must not be accessible to children under five (5) years of age without adult supervision. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1719(a)(19). -Ensure that all off-premise forms are current for each child enrolled. For off-premise activities occurring on regular basis, the standing permission is for 12 months; maintain off-premise forms. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1724(15)(b). -It was noticed that a smoke detector was "chirping," due to low battery. The detector was functioning; replace batteries. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1707(3). -The provider’s son will turn sixteen (16) on September 15, 2025.Schedule an appointment to obtain an I.D. for fingerprints and criminal background check before the sixteenth birthday. A current criminal background check is required and letter on file for those sixteen years-old and older residing in the home. Refer to G.S. 110-90.2 & Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(q). -The Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care Training Plan must be on the template provided by the Division and the plan must be available for review; update the plan annually. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1714(c) & (e). -Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. -The program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. Ms. Grace water was tested April 10, 2024. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. • After the visit Ms. Grace reached out to Michele Sullivan to grieve a violation regarding jump ropes being accessible to children under five years old. Her disagreement with the violation is due to the fact that she was supervising the children at all times and the rule states “jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision”. • Ms. Sullivan discussed the grievance with both the consultant and Jeff Gaster, Program Manager. • It was determined that the violation was cited correctly because the jump ropes were being stored in a way that was accessible to children under five years old however; based on the provider’s understanding of “without adult supervision” the violation is being removed. • Ms. Sullivan spoke to Ms. Grace and explained that we understand she was outside with the children and adequately supervising the children however; the intent of the rule is that the jump ropes are only accessible if the children are using them during a supervised activity and they should be inaccessible when stored. • Technical assistance regarding this rule was provided to Ms. Grace. This violation will be cited in the future if jump ropes are observed stored in a way that makes them accessible to children under five years old The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .1724 · Violation

Name of Operation: GRACIOUS GIFTS IN-HOME CHILD CARE Facility ID: 60004234 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 10/23/2024 Number Present: 3 Completed Date: 10/23/2024 Age: From 0 To 2 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home 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. I was greeted by Ms. Tatum Grace, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Four (4) children arrived during the visit. I observed the children participating in Music and Movement, and I observed the children having supervised independent play. The facility has a Five-Star Rated License issued March 27, 2023. The last annual compliance visit was conducted November 2, 2023. The sanitation inspection was completed September 18, 2024, with a zero (0) Demerit Score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-nine (99) percent as of October 22, 2024. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on October 23, 2024 and Gracious Gifts In-Home Childcare LLC, was listed as active-not current; a violation was cited. The facility was monitored today with the Family Child Care Home Monitoring Checklist and the Family Child Care Home Item Number Listing. A copy of the checklist was provided to Ms. Tatum after the visit. The following was observed posted: Current License, NC Summary of Child Care Law, Schedule, Activity Plan, First Aid Sheet, and Emergency Numbers. Monthly Fire Drills, Shelter-in-Place/Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspections, the Emergency Medical Care Plan, Incident log, and the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan were observed. The EPR Plan was last updated March 12, 2024. The fire drills and shelter-in-place/lockdown drills met compliance; the outdoor play inspections met compliance. Ms. Grace is using an approved curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The daily attendance and arrival and departure times were reviewed and met compliance. The child care facility, including the bathroom, child care room, kitchen, and outdoor play area was monitored during the visit. Soap and toilet paper were available in the bathroom for use. The toys and equipment were in good repair. In the kitchen, there was a working fire extinguisher, working thermometer in the refrigerator, and smoke detectors. Ms. Grace's file was monitored and observed for Health Questionnaire, Emergency Information, First Aid and CPR, and Criminal Qualifying Letter; met the required number of annual ongoing training hours. Ms. Grace's oldest daughter has a current criminal background check letter on file. The children’s files were monitored today, and a violation was cited for an expired Off-Premise form. The outdoor play area was clean, and the toys were in good repair. A violation was cited for two (2) items that was accessible to children under five (5) years of age. Ms. Grace does not have any pets. There are children enrolled with allergies. Medications were reviewed and compliance was met. Ms. Tatum does not provide transportation and a vehicle was available in case of an emergency. Three (3) violation were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 1544 The child care operator did not comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. The facility was not listed as current and active on the NC Secretary of State website. GS 110-91 2004 For off-premise activities occurring on regular basis, the standing permission for 12 months had expired. The off-premise form expired October 1, 2024, for child (C.D.J). .1723(15)(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before November 6, 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 will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -On June 12, 2023 Governor Cooper signed Session Law 2023-40; Senate Bill 291. This law extends the hold harmless status for facilities operating with a star rated license until June 30, 2024. Additionally, it extends the reduced percentage of lead teachers that must meet the point levels from 75% to 50% until June 30, 2026. Scales are voluntary at this time. Your facility is due 2026. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -The facility was not listed as current-active on The NC Secretary of State Website. The child care operator must comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. Refer to G.S. 110-91. -Jump ropes must not be accessible to children under five (5) years of age without adult supervision. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1719(a)(19). -Ensure that all off-premise forms are current for each child enrolled. For off-premise activities occurring on regular basis, the standing permission is for 12 months; maintain off-premise forms. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1724(15)(b). -It was noticed that a smoke detector was "chirping," due to low battery. The detector was functioning; replace batteries. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1707(3). -The provider’s son will turn sixteen (16) on September 15, 2025.Schedule an appointment to obtain an I.D. for fingerprints and criminal background check before the sixteenth birthday. A current criminal background check is required and letter on file for those sixteen years-old and older residing in the home. Refer to G.S. 110-90.2 & Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(q). -The Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care Training Plan must be on the template provided by the Division and the plan must be available for review; update the plan annually. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1714(c) & (e). -Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. -The program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. Ms. Grace water was tested April 10, 2024. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. • After the visit Ms. Grace reached out to Michele Sullivan to grieve a violation regarding jump ropes being accessible to children under five years old. Her disagreement with the violation is due to the fact that she was supervising the children at all times and the rule states “jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision”. • Ms. Sullivan discussed the grievance with both the consultant and Jeff Gaster, Program Manager. • It was determined that the violation was cited correctly because the jump ropes were being stored in a way that was accessible to children under five years old however; based on the provider’s understanding of “without adult supervision” the violation is being removed. • Ms. Sullivan spoke to Ms. Grace and explained that we understand she was outside with the children and adequately supervising the children however; the intent of the rule is that the jump ropes are only accessible if the children are using them during a supervised activity and they should be inaccessible when stored. • Technical assistance regarding this rule was provided to Ms. Grace. This violation will be cited in the future if jump ropes are observed stored in a way that makes them accessible to children under five years old The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .1725 · Violation

Name of Operation: GRACIOUS GIFTS IN-HOME CHILD CARE Facility ID: 60004234 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 10/23/2024 Number Present: 3 Completed Date: 10/23/2024 Age: From 0 To 2 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home 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. I was greeted by Ms. Tatum Grace, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Four (4) children arrived during the visit. I observed the children participating in Music and Movement, and I observed the children having supervised independent play. The facility has a Five-Star Rated License issued March 27, 2023. The last annual compliance visit was conducted November 2, 2023. The sanitation inspection was completed September 18, 2024, with a zero (0) Demerit Score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-nine (99) percent as of October 22, 2024. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on October 23, 2024 and Gracious Gifts In-Home Childcare LLC, was listed as active-not current; a violation was cited. The facility was monitored today with the Family Child Care Home Monitoring Checklist and the Family Child Care Home Item Number Listing. A copy of the checklist was provided to Ms. Tatum after the visit. The following was observed posted: Current License, NC Summary of Child Care Law, Schedule, Activity Plan, First Aid Sheet, and Emergency Numbers. Monthly Fire Drills, Shelter-in-Place/Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspections, the Emergency Medical Care Plan, Incident log, and the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan were observed. The EPR Plan was last updated March 12, 2024. The fire drills and shelter-in-place/lockdown drills met compliance; the outdoor play inspections met compliance. Ms. Grace is using an approved curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The daily attendance and arrival and departure times were reviewed and met compliance. The child care facility, including the bathroom, child care room, kitchen, and outdoor play area was monitored during the visit. Soap and toilet paper were available in the bathroom for use. The toys and equipment were in good repair. In the kitchen, there was a working fire extinguisher, working thermometer in the refrigerator, and smoke detectors. Ms. Grace's file was monitored and observed for Health Questionnaire, Emergency Information, First Aid and CPR, and Criminal Qualifying Letter; met the required number of annual ongoing training hours. Ms. Grace's oldest daughter has a current criminal background check letter on file. The children’s files were monitored today, and a violation was cited for an expired Off-Premise form. The outdoor play area was clean, and the toys were in good repair. A violation was cited for two (2) items that was accessible to children under five (5) years of age. Ms. Grace does not have any pets. There are children enrolled with allergies. Medications were reviewed and compliance was met. Ms. Tatum does not provide transportation and a vehicle was available in case of an emergency. Three (3) violation were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 1544 The child care operator did not comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. The facility was not listed as current and active on the NC Secretary of State website. GS 110-91 2004 For off-premise activities occurring on regular basis, the standing permission for 12 months had expired. The off-premise form expired October 1, 2024, for child (C.D.J). .1723(15)(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before November 6, 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 will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -On June 12, 2023 Governor Cooper signed Session Law 2023-40; Senate Bill 291. This law extends the hold harmless status for facilities operating with a star rated license until June 30, 2024. Additionally, it extends the reduced percentage of lead teachers that must meet the point levels from 75% to 50% until June 30, 2026. Scales are voluntary at this time. Your facility is due 2026. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -The facility was not listed as current-active on The NC Secretary of State Website. The child care operator must comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. Refer to G.S. 110-91. -Jump ropes must not be accessible to children under five (5) years of age without adult supervision. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1719(a)(19). -Ensure that all off-premise forms are current for each child enrolled. For off-premise activities occurring on regular basis, the standing permission is for 12 months; maintain off-premise forms. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1724(15)(b). -It was noticed that a smoke detector was "chirping," due to low battery. The detector was functioning; replace batteries. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1707(3). -The provider’s son will turn sixteen (16) on September 15, 2025.Schedule an appointment to obtain an I.D. for fingerprints and criminal background check before the sixteenth birthday. A current criminal background check is required and letter on file for those sixteen years-old and older residing in the home. Refer to G.S. 110-90.2 & Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(q). -The Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care Training Plan must be on the template provided by the Division and the plan must be available for review; update the plan annually. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1714(c) & (e). -Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. -The program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. Ms. Grace water was tested April 10, 2024. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. • After the visit Ms. Grace reached out to Michele Sullivan to grieve a violation regarding jump ropes being accessible to children under five years old. Her disagreement with the violation is due to the fact that she was supervising the children at all times and the rule states “jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision”. • Ms. Sullivan discussed the grievance with both the consultant and Jeff Gaster, Program Manager. • It was determined that the violation was cited correctly because the jump ropes were being stored in a way that was accessible to children under five years old however; based on the provider’s understanding of “without adult supervision” the violation is being removed. • Ms. Sullivan spoke to Ms. Grace and explained that we understand she was outside with the children and adequately supervising the children however; the intent of the rule is that the jump ropes are only accessible if the children are using them during a supervised activity and they should be inaccessible when stored. • Technical assistance regarding this rule was provided to Ms. Grace. This violation will be cited in the future if jump ropes are observed stored in a way that makes them accessible to children under five years old The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .2703 · Violation

Name of Operation: GRACIOUS GIFTS IN-HOME CHILD CARE Facility ID: 60004234 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 10/23/2024 Number Present: 3 Completed Date: 10/23/2024 Age: From 0 To 2 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home 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. I was greeted by Ms. Tatum Grace, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Four (4) children arrived during the visit. I observed the children participating in Music and Movement, and I observed the children having supervised independent play. The facility has a Five-Star Rated License issued March 27, 2023. The last annual compliance visit was conducted November 2, 2023. The sanitation inspection was completed September 18, 2024, with a zero (0) Demerit Score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-nine (99) percent as of October 22, 2024. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on October 23, 2024 and Gracious Gifts In-Home Childcare LLC, was listed as active-not current; a violation was cited. The facility was monitored today with the Family Child Care Home Monitoring Checklist and the Family Child Care Home Item Number Listing. A copy of the checklist was provided to Ms. Tatum after the visit. The following was observed posted: Current License, NC Summary of Child Care Law, Schedule, Activity Plan, First Aid Sheet, and Emergency Numbers. Monthly Fire Drills, Shelter-in-Place/Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspections, the Emergency Medical Care Plan, Incident log, and the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan were observed. The EPR Plan was last updated March 12, 2024. The fire drills and shelter-in-place/lockdown drills met compliance; the outdoor play inspections met compliance. Ms. Grace is using an approved curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The daily attendance and arrival and departure times were reviewed and met compliance. The child care facility, including the bathroom, child care room, kitchen, and outdoor play area was monitored during the visit. Soap and toilet paper were available in the bathroom for use. The toys and equipment were in good repair. In the kitchen, there was a working fire extinguisher, working thermometer in the refrigerator, and smoke detectors. Ms. Grace's file was monitored and observed for Health Questionnaire, Emergency Information, First Aid and CPR, and Criminal Qualifying Letter; met the required number of annual ongoing training hours. Ms. Grace's oldest daughter has a current criminal background check letter on file. The children’s files were monitored today, and a violation was cited for an expired Off-Premise form. The outdoor play area was clean, and the toys were in good repair. A violation was cited for two (2) items that was accessible to children under five (5) years of age. Ms. Grace does not have any pets. There are children enrolled with allergies. Medications were reviewed and compliance was met. Ms. Tatum does not provide transportation and a vehicle was available in case of an emergency. Three (3) violation were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 1544 The child care operator did not comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. The facility was not listed as current and active on the NC Secretary of State website. GS 110-91 2004 For off-premise activities occurring on regular basis, the standing permission for 12 months had expired. The off-premise form expired October 1, 2024, for child (C.D.J). .1723(15)(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before November 6, 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 will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -On June 12, 2023 Governor Cooper signed Session Law 2023-40; Senate Bill 291. This law extends the hold harmless status for facilities operating with a star rated license until June 30, 2024. Additionally, it extends the reduced percentage of lead teachers that must meet the point levels from 75% to 50% until June 30, 2026. Scales are voluntary at this time. Your facility is due 2026. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -The facility was not listed as current-active on The NC Secretary of State Website. The child care operator must comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. Refer to G.S. 110-91. -Jump ropes must not be accessible to children under five (5) years of age without adult supervision. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1719(a)(19). -Ensure that all off-premise forms are current for each child enrolled. For off-premise activities occurring on regular basis, the standing permission is for 12 months; maintain off-premise forms. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1724(15)(b). -It was noticed that a smoke detector was "chirping," due to low battery. The detector was functioning; replace batteries. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1707(3). -The provider’s son will turn sixteen (16) on September 15, 2025.Schedule an appointment to obtain an I.D. for fingerprints and criminal background check before the sixteenth birthday. A current criminal background check is required and letter on file for those sixteen years-old and older residing in the home. Refer to G.S. 110-90.2 & Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(q). -The Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care Training Plan must be on the template provided by the Division and the plan must be available for review; update the plan annually. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1714(c) & (e). -Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. -The program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. Ms. Grace water was tested April 10, 2024. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. • After the visit Ms. Grace reached out to Michele Sullivan to grieve a violation regarding jump ropes being accessible to children under five years old. Her disagreement with the violation is due to the fact that she was supervising the children at all times and the rule states “jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision”. • Ms. Sullivan discussed the grievance with both the consultant and Jeff Gaster, Program Manager. • It was determined that the violation was cited correctly because the jump ropes were being stored in a way that was accessible to children under five years old however; based on the provider’s understanding of “without adult supervision” the violation is being removed. • Ms. Sullivan spoke to Ms. Grace and explained that we understand she was outside with the children and adequately supervising the children however; the intent of the rule is that the jump ropes are only accessible if the children are using them during a supervised activity and they should be inaccessible when stored. • Technical assistance regarding this rule was provided to Ms. Grace. This violation will be cited in the future if jump ropes are observed stored in a way that makes them accessible to children under five years old The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: GRACIOUS GIFTS IN-HOME CHILD CARE Facility ID: 60004234 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 10/23/2024 Number Present: 3 Completed Date: 10/23/2024 Age: From 0 To 2 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home 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. I was greeted by Ms. Tatum Grace, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Four (4) children arrived during the visit. I observed the children participating in Music and Movement, and I observed the children having supervised independent play. The facility has a Five-Star Rated License issued March 27, 2023. The last annual compliance visit was conducted November 2, 2023. The sanitation inspection was completed September 18, 2024, with a zero (0) Demerit Score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-nine (99) percent as of October 22, 2024. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on October 23, 2024 and Gracious Gifts In-Home Childcare LLC, was listed as active-not current; a violation was cited. The facility was monitored today with the Family Child Care Home Monitoring Checklist and the Family Child Care Home Item Number Listing. A copy of the checklist was provided to Ms. Tatum after the visit. The following was observed posted: Current License, NC Summary of Child Care Law, Schedule, Activity Plan, First Aid Sheet, and Emergency Numbers. Monthly Fire Drills, Shelter-in-Place/Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspections, the Emergency Medical Care Plan, Incident log, and the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan were observed. The EPR Plan was last updated March 12, 2024. The fire drills and shelter-in-place/lockdown drills met compliance; the outdoor play inspections met compliance. Ms. Grace is using an approved curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The daily attendance and arrival and departure times were reviewed and met compliance. The child care facility, including the bathroom, child care room, kitchen, and outdoor play area was monitored during the visit. Soap and toilet paper were available in the bathroom for use. The toys and equipment were in good repair. In the kitchen, there was a working fire extinguisher, working thermometer in the refrigerator, and smoke detectors. Ms. Grace's file was monitored and observed for Health Questionnaire, Emergency Information, First Aid and CPR, and Criminal Qualifying Letter; met the required number of annual ongoing training hours. Ms. Grace's oldest daughter has a current criminal background check letter on file. The children’s files were monitored today, and a violation was cited for an expired Off-Premise form. The outdoor play area was clean, and the toys were in good repair. A violation was cited for two (2) items that was accessible to children under five (5) years of age. Ms. Grace does not have any pets. There are children enrolled with allergies. Medications were reviewed and compliance was met. Ms. Tatum does not provide transportation and a vehicle was available in case of an emergency. Three (3) violation were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 1544 The child care operator did not comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. The facility was not listed as current and active on the NC Secretary of State website. GS 110-91 2004 For off-premise activities occurring on regular basis, the standing permission for 12 months had expired. The off-premise form expired October 1, 2024, for child (C.D.J). .1723(15)(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before November 6, 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 will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -On June 12, 2023 Governor Cooper signed Session Law 2023-40; Senate Bill 291. This law extends the hold harmless status for facilities operating with a star rated license until June 30, 2024. Additionally, it extends the reduced percentage of lead teachers that must meet the point levels from 75% to 50% until June 30, 2026. Scales are voluntary at this time. Your facility is due 2026. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -The facility was not listed as current-active on The NC Secretary of State Website. The child care operator must comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. Refer to G.S. 110-91. -Jump ropes must not be accessible to children under five (5) years of age without adult supervision. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1719(a)(19). -Ensure that all off-premise forms are current for each child enrolled. For off-premise activities occurring on regular basis, the standing permission is for 12 months; maintain off-premise forms. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1724(15)(b). -It was noticed that a smoke detector was "chirping," due to low battery. The detector was functioning; replace batteries. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1707(3). -The provider’s son will turn sixteen (16) on September 15, 2025.Schedule an appointment to obtain an I.D. for fingerprints and criminal background check before the sixteenth birthday. A current criminal background check is required and letter on file for those sixteen years-old and older residing in the home. Refer to G.S. 110-90.2 & Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(q). -The Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care Training Plan must be on the template provided by the Division and the plan must be available for review; update the plan annually. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1714(c) & (e). -Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. -The program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. Ms. Grace water was tested April 10, 2024. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. • After the visit Ms. Grace reached out to Michele Sullivan to grieve a violation regarding jump ropes being accessible to children under five years old. Her disagreement with the violation is due to the fact that she was supervising the children at all times and the rule states “jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision”. • Ms. Sullivan discussed the grievance with both the consultant and Jeff Gaster, Program Manager. • It was determined that the violation was cited correctly because the jump ropes were being stored in a way that was accessible to children under five years old however; based on the provider’s understanding of “without adult supervision” the violation is being removed. • Ms. Sullivan spoke to Ms. Grace and explained that we understand she was outside with the children and adequately supervising the children however; the intent of the rule is that the jump ropes are only accessible if the children are using them during a supervised activity and they should be inaccessible when stored. • Technical assistance regarding this rule was provided to Ms. Grace. This violation will be cited in the future if jump ropes are observed stored in a way that makes them accessible to children under five years old The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: GRACIOUS GIFTS IN-HOME CHILD CARE Facility ID: 60004234 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 10/23/2024 Number Present: 3 Completed Date: 10/23/2024 Age: From 0 To 2 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home 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. I was greeted by Ms. Tatum Grace, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Four (4) children arrived during the visit. I observed the children participating in Music and Movement, and I observed the children having supervised independent play. The facility has a Five-Star Rated License issued March 27, 2023. The last annual compliance visit was conducted November 2, 2023. The sanitation inspection was completed September 18, 2024, with a zero (0) Demerit Score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-nine (99) percent as of October 22, 2024. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on October 23, 2024 and Gracious Gifts In-Home Childcare LLC, was listed as active-not current; a violation was cited. The facility was monitored today with the Family Child Care Home Monitoring Checklist and the Family Child Care Home Item Number Listing. A copy of the checklist was provided to Ms. Tatum after the visit. The following was observed posted: Current License, NC Summary of Child Care Law, Schedule, Activity Plan, First Aid Sheet, and Emergency Numbers. Monthly Fire Drills, Shelter-in-Place/Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspections, the Emergency Medical Care Plan, Incident log, and the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan were observed. The EPR Plan was last updated March 12, 2024. The fire drills and shelter-in-place/lockdown drills met compliance; the outdoor play inspections met compliance. Ms. Grace is using an approved curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The daily attendance and arrival and departure times were reviewed and met compliance. The child care facility, including the bathroom, child care room, kitchen, and outdoor play area was monitored during the visit. Soap and toilet paper were available in the bathroom for use. The toys and equipment were in good repair. In the kitchen, there was a working fire extinguisher, working thermometer in the refrigerator, and smoke detectors. Ms. Grace's file was monitored and observed for Health Questionnaire, Emergency Information, First Aid and CPR, and Criminal Qualifying Letter; met the required number of annual ongoing training hours. Ms. Grace's oldest daughter has a current criminal background check letter on file. The children’s files were monitored today, and a violation was cited for an expired Off-Premise form. The outdoor play area was clean, and the toys were in good repair. A violation was cited for two (2) items that was accessible to children under five (5) years of age. Ms. Grace does not have any pets. There are children enrolled with allergies. Medications were reviewed and compliance was met. Ms. Tatum does not provide transportation and a vehicle was available in case of an emergency. Three (3) violation were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 1544 The child care operator did not comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. The facility was not listed as current and active on the NC Secretary of State website. GS 110-91 2004 For off-premise activities occurring on regular basis, the standing permission for 12 months had expired. The off-premise form expired October 1, 2024, for child (C.D.J). .1723(15)(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before November 6, 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 will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -On June 12, 2023 Governor Cooper signed Session Law 2023-40; Senate Bill 291. This law extends the hold harmless status for facilities operating with a star rated license until June 30, 2024. Additionally, it extends the reduced percentage of lead teachers that must meet the point levels from 75% to 50% until June 30, 2026. Scales are voluntary at this time. Your facility is due 2026. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -The facility was not listed as current-active on The NC Secretary of State Website. The child care operator must comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. Refer to G.S. 110-91. -Jump ropes must not be accessible to children under five (5) years of age without adult supervision. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1719(a)(19). -Ensure that all off-premise forms are current for each child enrolled. For off-premise activities occurring on regular basis, the standing permission is for 12 months; maintain off-premise forms. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1724(15)(b). -It was noticed that a smoke detector was "chirping," due to low battery. The detector was functioning; replace batteries. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1707(3). -The provider’s son will turn sixteen (16) on September 15, 2025.Schedule an appointment to obtain an I.D. for fingerprints and criminal background check before the sixteenth birthday. A current criminal background check is required and letter on file for those sixteen years-old and older residing in the home. Refer to G.S. 110-90.2 & Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(q). -The Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care Training Plan must be on the template provided by the Division and the plan must be available for review; update the plan annually. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1714(c) & (e). -Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. -The program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. Ms. Grace water was tested April 10, 2024. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. • After the visit Ms. Grace reached out to Michele Sullivan to grieve a violation regarding jump ropes being accessible to children under five years old. Her disagreement with the violation is due to the fact that she was supervising the children at all times and the rule states “jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision”. • Ms. Sullivan discussed the grievance with both the consultant and Jeff Gaster, Program Manager. • It was determined that the violation was cited correctly because the jump ropes were being stored in a way that was accessible to children under five years old however; based on the provider’s understanding of “without adult supervision” the violation is being removed. • Ms. Sullivan spoke to Ms. Grace and explained that we understand she was outside with the children and adequately supervising the children however; the intent of the rule is that the jump ropes are only accessible if the children are using them during a supervised activity and they should be inaccessible when stored. • Technical assistance regarding this rule was provided to Ms. Grace. This violation will be cited in the future if jump ropes are observed stored in a way that makes them accessible to children under five years old The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: GRACIOUS GIFTS IN-HOME CHILD CARE Facility ID: 60004234 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 10/23/2024 Number Present: 3 Completed Date: 10/23/2024 Age: From 0 To 2 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home 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. I was greeted by Ms. Tatum Grace, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Four (4) children arrived during the visit. I observed the children participating in Music and Movement, and I observed the children having supervised independent play. The facility has a Five-Star Rated License issued March 27, 2023. The last annual compliance visit was conducted November 2, 2023. The sanitation inspection was completed September 18, 2024, with a zero (0) Demerit Score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-nine (99) percent as of October 22, 2024. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on October 23, 2024 and Gracious Gifts In-Home Childcare LLC, was listed as active-not current; a violation was cited. The facility was monitored today with the Family Child Care Home Monitoring Checklist and the Family Child Care Home Item Number Listing. A copy of the checklist was provided to Ms. Tatum after the visit. The following was observed posted: Current License, NC Summary of Child Care Law, Schedule, Activity Plan, First Aid Sheet, and Emergency Numbers. Monthly Fire Drills, Shelter-in-Place/Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspections, the Emergency Medical Care Plan, Incident log, and the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan were observed. The EPR Plan was last updated March 12, 2024. The fire drills and shelter-in-place/lockdown drills met compliance; the outdoor play inspections met compliance. Ms. Grace is using an approved curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The daily attendance and arrival and departure times were reviewed and met compliance. The child care facility, including the bathroom, child care room, kitchen, and outdoor play area was monitored during the visit. Soap and toilet paper were available in the bathroom for use. The toys and equipment were in good repair. In the kitchen, there was a working fire extinguisher, working thermometer in the refrigerator, and smoke detectors. Ms. Grace's file was monitored and observed for Health Questionnaire, Emergency Information, First Aid and CPR, and Criminal Qualifying Letter; met the required number of annual ongoing training hours. Ms. Grace's oldest daughter has a current criminal background check letter on file. The children’s files were monitored today, and a violation was cited for an expired Off-Premise form. The outdoor play area was clean, and the toys were in good repair. A violation was cited for two (2) items that was accessible to children under five (5) years of age. Ms. Grace does not have any pets. There are children enrolled with allergies. Medications were reviewed and compliance was met. Ms. Tatum does not provide transportation and a vehicle was available in case of an emergency. Three (3) violation were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 1544 The child care operator did not comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. The facility was not listed as current and active on the NC Secretary of State website. GS 110-91 2004 For off-premise activities occurring on regular basis, the standing permission for 12 months had expired. The off-premise form expired October 1, 2024, for child (C.D.J). .1723(15)(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before November 6, 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 will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -On June 12, 2023 Governor Cooper signed Session Law 2023-40; Senate Bill 291. This law extends the hold harmless status for facilities operating with a star rated license until June 30, 2024. Additionally, it extends the reduced percentage of lead teachers that must meet the point levels from 75% to 50% until June 30, 2026. Scales are voluntary at this time. Your facility is due 2026. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -The facility was not listed as current-active on The NC Secretary of State Website. The child care operator must comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. Refer to G.S. 110-91. -Jump ropes must not be accessible to children under five (5) years of age without adult supervision. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1719(a)(19). -Ensure that all off-premise forms are current for each child enrolled. For off-premise activities occurring on regular basis, the standing permission is for 12 months; maintain off-premise forms. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1724(15)(b). -It was noticed that a smoke detector was "chirping," due to low battery. The detector was functioning; replace batteries. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1707(3). -The provider’s son will turn sixteen (16) on September 15, 2025.Schedule an appointment to obtain an I.D. for fingerprints and criminal background check before the sixteenth birthday. A current criminal background check is required and letter on file for those sixteen years-old and older residing in the home. Refer to G.S. 110-90.2 & Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(q). -The Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care Training Plan must be on the template provided by the Division and the plan must be available for review; update the plan annually. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1714(c) & (e). -Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. -The program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. Ms. Grace water was tested April 10, 2024. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. • After the visit Ms. Grace reached out to Michele Sullivan to grieve a violation regarding jump ropes being accessible to children under five years old. Her disagreement with the violation is due to the fact that she was supervising the children at all times and the rule states “jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision”. • Ms. Sullivan discussed the grievance with both the consultant and Jeff Gaster, Program Manager. • It was determined that the violation was cited correctly because the jump ropes were being stored in a way that was accessible to children under five years old however; based on the provider’s understanding of “without adult supervision” the violation is being removed. • Ms. Sullivan spoke to Ms. Grace and explained that we understand she was outside with the children and adequately supervising the children however; the intent of the rule is that the jump ropes are only accessible if the children are using them during a supervised activity and they should be inaccessible when stored. • Technical assistance regarding this rule was provided to Ms. Grace. This violation will be cited in the future if jump ropes are observed stored in a way that makes them accessible to children under five years old The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: GRACIOUS GIFTS IN-HOME CHILD CARE Facility ID: 60004234 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 10/23/2024 Number Present: 3 Completed Date: 10/23/2024 Age: From 0 To 2 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home 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. I was greeted by Ms. Tatum Grace, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Four (4) children arrived during the visit. I observed the children participating in Music and Movement, and I observed the children having supervised independent play. The facility has a Five-Star Rated License issued March 27, 2023. The last annual compliance visit was conducted November 2, 2023. The sanitation inspection was completed September 18, 2024, with a zero (0) Demerit Score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-nine (99) percent as of October 22, 2024. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on October 23, 2024 and Gracious Gifts In-Home Childcare LLC, was listed as active-not current; a violation was cited. The facility was monitored today with the Family Child Care Home Monitoring Checklist and the Family Child Care Home Item Number Listing. A copy of the checklist was provided to Ms. Tatum after the visit. The following was observed posted: Current License, NC Summary of Child Care Law, Schedule, Activity Plan, First Aid Sheet, and Emergency Numbers. Monthly Fire Drills, Shelter-in-Place/Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspections, the Emergency Medical Care Plan, Incident log, and the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan were observed. The EPR Plan was last updated March 12, 2024. The fire drills and shelter-in-place/lockdown drills met compliance; the outdoor play inspections met compliance. Ms. Grace is using an approved curriculum, Creative Curriculum. The daily attendance and arrival and departure times were reviewed and met compliance. The child care facility, including the bathroom, child care room, kitchen, and outdoor play area was monitored during the visit. Soap and toilet paper were available in the bathroom for use. The toys and equipment were in good repair. In the kitchen, there was a working fire extinguisher, working thermometer in the refrigerator, and smoke detectors. Ms. Grace's file was monitored and observed for Health Questionnaire, Emergency Information, First Aid and CPR, and Criminal Qualifying Letter; met the required number of annual ongoing training hours. Ms. Grace's oldest daughter has a current criminal background check letter on file. The children’s files were monitored today, and a violation was cited for an expired Off-Premise form. The outdoor play area was clean, and the toys were in good repair. A violation was cited for two (2) items that was accessible to children under five (5) years of age. Ms. Grace does not have any pets. There are children enrolled with allergies. Medications were reviewed and compliance was met. Ms. Tatum does not provide transportation and a vehicle was available in case of an emergency. Three (3) violation were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 1544 The child care operator did not comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. The facility was not listed as current and active on the NC Secretary of State website. GS 110-91 2004 For off-premise activities occurring on regular basis, the standing permission for 12 months had expired. The off-premise form expired October 1, 2024, for child (C.D.J). .1723(15)(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before November 6, 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 will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -On June 12, 2023 Governor Cooper signed Session Law 2023-40; Senate Bill 291. This law extends the hold harmless status for facilities operating with a star rated license until June 30, 2024. Additionally, it extends the reduced percentage of lead teachers that must meet the point levels from 75% to 50% until June 30, 2026. Scales are voluntary at this time. Your facility is due 2026. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -The facility was not listed as current-active on The NC Secretary of State Website. The child care operator must comply with all State laws, federal laws and/or local ordinances that pertain to child health, safety, and welfare, as required by General Statute 110-91. Refer to G.S. 110-91. -Jump ropes must not be accessible to children under five (5) years of age without adult supervision. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1719(a)(19). -Ensure that all off-premise forms are current for each child enrolled. For off-premise activities occurring on regular basis, the standing permission is for 12 months; maintain off-premise forms. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1724(15)(b). -It was noticed that a smoke detector was "chirping," due to low battery. The detector was functioning; replace batteries. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1707(3). -The provider’s son will turn sixteen (16) on September 15, 2025.Schedule an appointment to obtain an I.D. for fingerprints and criminal background check before the sixteenth birthday. A current criminal background check is required and letter on file for those sixteen years-old and older residing in the home. Refer to G.S. 110-90.2 & Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2703(q). -The Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care Training Plan must be on the template provided by the Division and the plan must be available for review; update the plan annually. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1714(c) & (e). -Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. -The program continues to test child care centers for lead in water at every tap used for drinking or cooking every three years (15A NCAC 18A .2816) and requires family child care homes to have testing completed by January 1, 2025 (10A NCAC 09 .1725(a)). The program also reviews child care facilities’ documentation and other information to determine and coordinate any steps needed to identify and eliminate lead-based paint and asbestos hazards (10A NCAC 41C.1001-1007). Licensed child care centers operating within a public school (i.e., afterschool programs, Head Starts, Pre-K, etc.) should coordinate with school staff to complete the lead in water section of the program so the entire school can be tested at once. Ms. Grace water was tested April 10, 2024. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. • After the visit Ms. Grace reached out to Michele Sullivan to grieve a violation regarding jump ropes being accessible to children under five years old. Her disagreement with the violation is due to the fact that she was supervising the children at all times and the rule states “jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision”. • Ms. Sullivan discussed the grievance with both the consultant and Jeff Gaster, Program Manager. • It was determined that the violation was cited correctly because the jump ropes were being stored in a way that was accessible to children under five years old however; based on the provider’s understanding of “without adult supervision” the violation is being removed. • Ms. Sullivan spoke to Ms. Grace and explained that we understand she was outside with the children and adequately supervising the children however; the intent of the rule is that the jump ropes are only accessible if the children are using them during a supervised activity and they should be inaccessible when stored. • Technical assistance regarding this rule was provided to Ms. Grace. This violation will be cited in the future if jump ropes are observed stored in a way that makes them accessible to children under five years old The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.