10A NCAC 09 .2703 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/17/2025 Number Present: 77 Completed Date: 11/17/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 10:25 AM Time Out: 12:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit. A Written Warning was issued by DCDEE to this facility on October 8, 2025. Today, I met with the Director, B. Covington. Stipulation #2 of the Corrective Action Plan (CAP) required all staff to have a complete review of all child care requirements. The review was conducted on November 12, 2025, by Lead Child Care Consultant, Amy Italiano. The attendance roster for reviewed during today’s visit. All staff except for one attended the rules review. The Director reported that once the staff member returns to work a meeting with Ms. Italiano will be scheduled to review the child care requirements. The following items were monitored during the visit: supervision, staff/child ratio, CPR, First Aid training, special training, storage of hazardous substances, storage of medication, adequate/approved space, staff records, program records, license posted, permit restrictions and posted action, AA & CAP. A walk through of the facility was conducted with the Director Children were observed participating in personal care routines, free choice of indoor and outdoor activities, teacher directed activities and group time. Staff were observed interacting with the children during activities, assisting with personal care routines and supervising transitions. There have been no new staff hired since an unannounced follow up visit which was conducted on October 15, 2025. The staff and training worksheets were reviewed to confirm existing staff have current criminal background qualifying letters, First Aid training, CPR training, and ITS-SIDS training. Staff member, E. Rogers, had a qualification letter that expired October 19, 2025. Ms. Rogers has fifteen (15) days to obtain a new qualification letter. A copy of the qualification letter must be emailed to me at the email address below along with the compliance letter. The Emergency Drill Log was reviewed today. A lockdown drill was conducted October 10, 2025. The monthly fire drill was conducted during the visit today. There was one violation cited today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One staff member did not submit required forms and complete a criminal background qualification check prior to the expiration date. The qualification letter expired October 19, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member's criminal background qualification letter expired October 19, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 2, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov The following technical assistance was provided. It was explained to the Director that the staff member with an expired criminal background qualification letter could continue working if a valid qualification letter is received fifteen (15) days of today’s date. If a qualification letter is not received by December 2, 2025, the staff member cannot be at the facility any longer until a qualification letter is received. 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS (e) Child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a), shall have a valid qualification letter prior to employment or living in a child care facility and the qualification letter shall be kept on file at the facility for review by representatives of the Division. A conversation was held with the Director regarding stipulation #3 of the CAP. The written plan regarding steps the facility will take to ensure compliance with program, staff, and children file requirements is due to me on or before November 26, 2025. I encourage you to utilize DCDEE’s website on a regular basis for updated information regarding rules, regulations, etc. The website address is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/17/2025 Number Present: 77 Completed Date: 11/17/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 10:25 AM Time Out: 12:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit. A Written Warning was issued by DCDEE to this facility on October 8, 2025. Today, I met with the Director, B. Covington. Stipulation #2 of the Corrective Action Plan (CAP) required all staff to have a complete review of all child care requirements. The review was conducted on November 12, 2025, by Lead Child Care Consultant, Amy Italiano. The attendance roster for reviewed during today’s visit. All staff except for one attended the rules review. The Director reported that once the staff member returns to work a meeting with Ms. Italiano will be scheduled to review the child care requirements. The following items were monitored during the visit: supervision, staff/child ratio, CPR, First Aid training, special training, storage of hazardous substances, storage of medication, adequate/approved space, staff records, program records, license posted, permit restrictions and posted action, AA & CAP. A walk through of the facility was conducted with the Director Children were observed participating in personal care routines, free choice of indoor and outdoor activities, teacher directed activities and group time. Staff were observed interacting with the children during activities, assisting with personal care routines and supervising transitions. There have been no new staff hired since an unannounced follow up visit which was conducted on October 15, 2025. The staff and training worksheets were reviewed to confirm existing staff have current criminal background qualifying letters, First Aid training, CPR training, and ITS-SIDS training. Staff member, E. Rogers, had a qualification letter that expired October 19, 2025. Ms. Rogers has fifteen (15) days to obtain a new qualification letter. A copy of the qualification letter must be emailed to me at the email address below along with the compliance letter. The Emergency Drill Log was reviewed today. A lockdown drill was conducted October 10, 2025. The monthly fire drill was conducted during the visit today. There was one violation cited today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One staff member did not submit required forms and complete a criminal background qualification check prior to the expiration date. The qualification letter expired October 19, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member's criminal background qualification letter expired October 19, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 2, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov The following technical assistance was provided. It was explained to the Director that the staff member with an expired criminal background qualification letter could continue working if a valid qualification letter is received fifteen (15) days of today’s date. If a qualification letter is not received by December 2, 2025, the staff member cannot be at the facility any longer until a qualification letter is received. 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS (e) Child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a), shall have a valid qualification letter prior to employment or living in a child care facility and the qualification letter shall be kept on file at the facility for review by representatives of the Division. A conversation was held with the Director regarding stipulation #3 of the CAP. The written plan regarding steps the facility will take to ensure compliance with program, staff, and children file requirements is due to me on or before November 26, 2025. I encourage you to utilize DCDEE’s website on a regular basis for updated information regarding rules, regulations, etc. The website address is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/17/2025 Number Present: 77 Completed Date: 11/17/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 10:25 AM Time Out: 12:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an administrative action follow-up visit. A Written Warning was issued by DCDEE to this facility on October 8, 2025. Today, I met with the Director, B. Covington. Stipulation #2 of the Corrective Action Plan (CAP) required all staff to have a complete review of all child care requirements. The review was conducted on November 12, 2025, by Lead Child Care Consultant, Amy Italiano. The attendance roster for reviewed during today’s visit. All staff except for one attended the rules review. The Director reported that once the staff member returns to work a meeting with Ms. Italiano will be scheduled to review the child care requirements. The following items were monitored during the visit: supervision, staff/child ratio, CPR, First Aid training, special training, storage of hazardous substances, storage of medication, adequate/approved space, staff records, program records, license posted, permit restrictions and posted action, AA & CAP. A walk through of the facility was conducted with the Director Children were observed participating in personal care routines, free choice of indoor and outdoor activities, teacher directed activities and group time. Staff were observed interacting with the children during activities, assisting with personal care routines and supervising transitions. There have been no new staff hired since an unannounced follow up visit which was conducted on October 15, 2025. The staff and training worksheets were reviewed to confirm existing staff have current criminal background qualifying letters, First Aid training, CPR training, and ITS-SIDS training. Staff member, E. Rogers, had a qualification letter that expired October 19, 2025. Ms. Rogers has fifteen (15) days to obtain a new qualification letter. A copy of the qualification letter must be emailed to me at the email address below along with the compliance letter. The Emergency Drill Log was reviewed today. A lockdown drill was conducted October 10, 2025. The monthly fire drill was conducted during the visit today. There was one violation cited today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). One staff member did not submit required forms and complete a criminal background qualification check prior to the expiration date. The qualification letter expired October 19, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. One staff member's criminal background qualification letter expired October 19, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before December 2, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov The following technical assistance was provided. It was explained to the Director that the staff member with an expired criminal background qualification letter could continue working if a valid qualification letter is received fifteen (15) days of today’s date. If a qualification letter is not received by December 2, 2025, the staff member cannot be at the facility any longer until a qualification letter is received. 10A NCAC 09 .2703 CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS (e) Child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a), shall have a valid qualification letter prior to employment or living in a child care facility and the qualification letter shall be kept on file at the facility for review by representatives of the Division. A conversation was held with the Director regarding stipulation #3 of the CAP. The written plan regarding steps the facility will take to ensure compliance with program, staff, and children file requirements is due to me on or before November 26, 2025. I encourage you to utilize DCDEE’s website on a regular basis for updated information regarding rules, regulations, etc. The website address is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0514 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/12/2025 Number Present: 75 Completed Date: 8/12/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 170 Time In: 12:35 PM Time Out: 03:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to follow up on violations cited during the annual compliance visit conducted on July 30, 2025, and an other visit conducted on August 4, 2025. B. Covington, Director, assisted me with today’s visit. The following items were monitored for compliance: Item #1048 regarding First Aid training. The training is scheduled for August 19, 2025. Item #1065 regarding ITS-SIDS training. The training is scheduled for August 21, 2025. Item #1052 regarding on going training hours for two staff members. The staff are in the process of completing the training hours. Item #1232 regarding a staff development plan and annual evaluation for one staff member. A staff development plan and annual evaluation have not been completed. The Director reported that she is in the process of completing both. Item #1034 regarding health questionnaires for two staff. Questionnaires for both staff were updated during today’s visit. Item #1035 regarding emergency information for two staff. Emergency information for both staff was updated during today’s visit. Item #429 regarding activity plans and the use of Foundations for Early Learning and Development. The Director reported that she met with staff August 7, 2025, to explain the use of Foundations for Early Learning and Development and how to incorporate with the activity plans however, goals have not been included on the activity plans for the week. The Director reported that she will work with the staff on adding goals until they feel comfortable with using the tool. Item #616 regarding dust and dirt build up on shelving in space #9. Shelving has been cleaned. Item #705 regarding equipment and furnishings free of hazards. Pine cones causing sharp edges have not been removed from the sandbox and playground. Item #1311 regarding emergency medical care information for eight children. The Director reported that the emergency medical care form has been given to parents however, she has not received them back. Item #1321 regarding a medical exam for one child. The medical exam has not been received as of today. The Director reported requesting the medical exam from the parent and the parent was going to contact the child’s doctor. Item #1811 regarding a lockdown and shelter-in-place drill. A lockdown drill was conducted on July 22, 2025. Item #1824 regarding annual review and update of EPR plan. The EPR plan has not been updated as of today. The Director reported that she is waiting on a username and password from the corporate office. Item #1878 regarding medical authorization to administer diaper cream for one child. The child is no longer enrolled. Item #1914 regarding the EMC plan. The EMC plan was updated July 31, 2025. Item #862 regarding review of the EMC plan with staff. The plan has not been reviewed with staff as of today. Item #1825 regarding review of the EPR plan with staff. The plan has not been reviewed with staff as of today. A walk through the facility was conducted with the Director. Infants were observed participating in personal care routines and indoor play activities. Children one year of age and older were observed participating in rest time. Items #705, #1232, #429, #1311, #1321, #1824, #862, and #1825 were not confirmed as being corrected today. Additional time is extended for item #1052 since the training is in process and items #1048 and #1065 since the training has been scheduled. There were eight repeat violations cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 429 The activity plan was not designed to stimulate emotional and social, health and physical, approaches to play and learning, language development and communication, and cognitive development for each group of children in care. The activity plans for each classroom did not include goals for Foundations for Early Learning and Development. .0508(b)(1-5) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The sandbox on the toddler playground was covered with a tarp. The sandbox and tarp were covered with pine needles and pine cones. There were also pine cones scattered around the playground. The pine cones cause hazards due to sharp edges. .0601(c) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. The EMC plan was last reviewed with staff on August 3, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff member did not have an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan on file. One staff member's annual evaluation and staff development plan was dated June 7, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1311 Emergency medical care information was not on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and/or was not updated as changes occurred or at least annually for each child. Eight children did not have verification on file that emergency medical care information has been updated annually. .0802(c) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have a medical exam on file. GS110-91(1) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR plan has not been updated since January 2023. .0607(e) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. The EPR plan was last reviewed with staff on August 3, 2025. .0607(f) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 26, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov Technical Assistance: A conversation was held with the Director regarding the importance of correcting violations immediately and maintaining compliance. During the previous visit on August 4, 2025, I suggested the Director contact Claire Council at Child Care Resources Inc. for additional support and technical assistance. The Director reported today that she has contacted Ms. Council with the Quality Everyday Project, and they are in the process of scheduling a time to meet. I offered to conduct a technical assistance visit. After a discussion with the Director. I will contact Ms. Council to schedule a joint visit with the Director. I encouraged the Director to give parents and staff strict deadlines on completing and returning paperwork. Pathway to the Stars- Webinars will be hosted August 18th at 1:00pm and August 20th at 6pm for centers and centers located in a residence. In September, Child Care Consultants will be hosting an in-person meeting to provide additional guidance on changes, the transition plan and timeline. Additional information regarding the webinars will be in the Raise NC Newsletter. You will receive an email from me with information regarding the in-person meetings I encourage you to also utilize DCDEE’s website on a regular basis for updated information regarding rules and regulations, etc. DCDEE’s website address is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ The program’s 18-month compliance history after today’s visit was 76% Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: ratio. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0802 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/12/2025 Number Present: 75 Completed Date: 8/12/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 170 Time In: 12:35 PM Time Out: 03:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to follow up on violations cited during the annual compliance visit conducted on July 30, 2025, and an other visit conducted on August 4, 2025. B. Covington, Director, assisted me with today’s visit. The following items were monitored for compliance: Item #1048 regarding First Aid training. The training is scheduled for August 19, 2025. Item #1065 regarding ITS-SIDS training. The training is scheduled for August 21, 2025. Item #1052 regarding on going training hours for two staff members. The staff are in the process of completing the training hours. Item #1232 regarding a staff development plan and annual evaluation for one staff member. A staff development plan and annual evaluation have not been completed. The Director reported that she is in the process of completing both. Item #1034 regarding health questionnaires for two staff. Questionnaires for both staff were updated during today’s visit. Item #1035 regarding emergency information for two staff. Emergency information for both staff was updated during today’s visit. Item #429 regarding activity plans and the use of Foundations for Early Learning and Development. The Director reported that she met with staff August 7, 2025, to explain the use of Foundations for Early Learning and Development and how to incorporate with the activity plans however, goals have not been included on the activity plans for the week. The Director reported that she will work with the staff on adding goals until they feel comfortable with using the tool. Item #616 regarding dust and dirt build up on shelving in space #9. Shelving has been cleaned. Item #705 regarding equipment and furnishings free of hazards. Pine cones causing sharp edges have not been removed from the sandbox and playground. Item #1311 regarding emergency medical care information for eight children. The Director reported that the emergency medical care form has been given to parents however, she has not received them back. Item #1321 regarding a medical exam for one child. The medical exam has not been received as of today. The Director reported requesting the medical exam from the parent and the parent was going to contact the child’s doctor. Item #1811 regarding a lockdown and shelter-in-place drill. A lockdown drill was conducted on July 22, 2025. Item #1824 regarding annual review and update of EPR plan. The EPR plan has not been updated as of today. The Director reported that she is waiting on a username and password from the corporate office. Item #1878 regarding medical authorization to administer diaper cream for one child. The child is no longer enrolled. Item #1914 regarding the EMC plan. The EMC plan was updated July 31, 2025. Item #862 regarding review of the EMC plan with staff. The plan has not been reviewed with staff as of today. Item #1825 regarding review of the EPR plan with staff. The plan has not been reviewed with staff as of today. A walk through the facility was conducted with the Director. Infants were observed participating in personal care routines and indoor play activities. Children one year of age and older were observed participating in rest time. Items #705, #1232, #429, #1311, #1321, #1824, #862, and #1825 were not confirmed as being corrected today. Additional time is extended for item #1052 since the training is in process and items #1048 and #1065 since the training has been scheduled. There were eight repeat violations cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 429 The activity plan was not designed to stimulate emotional and social, health and physical, approaches to play and learning, language development and communication, and cognitive development for each group of children in care. The activity plans for each classroom did not include goals for Foundations for Early Learning and Development. .0508(b)(1-5) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The sandbox on the toddler playground was covered with a tarp. The sandbox and tarp were covered with pine needles and pine cones. There were also pine cones scattered around the playground. The pine cones cause hazards due to sharp edges. .0601(c) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. The EMC plan was last reviewed with staff on August 3, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff member did not have an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan on file. One staff member's annual evaluation and staff development plan was dated June 7, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1311 Emergency medical care information was not on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and/or was not updated as changes occurred or at least annually for each child. Eight children did not have verification on file that emergency medical care information has been updated annually. .0802(c) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have a medical exam on file. GS110-91(1) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR plan has not been updated since January 2023. .0607(e) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. The EPR plan was last reviewed with staff on August 3, 2025. .0607(f) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 26, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov Technical Assistance: A conversation was held with the Director regarding the importance of correcting violations immediately and maintaining compliance. During the previous visit on August 4, 2025, I suggested the Director contact Claire Council at Child Care Resources Inc. for additional support and technical assistance. The Director reported today that she has contacted Ms. Council with the Quality Everyday Project, and they are in the process of scheduling a time to meet. I offered to conduct a technical assistance visit. After a discussion with the Director. I will contact Ms. Council to schedule a joint visit with the Director. I encouraged the Director to give parents and staff strict deadlines on completing and returning paperwork. Pathway to the Stars- Webinars will be hosted August 18th at 1:00pm and August 20th at 6pm for centers and centers located in a residence. In September, Child Care Consultants will be hosting an in-person meeting to provide additional guidance on changes, the transition plan and timeline. Additional information regarding the webinars will be in the Raise NC Newsletter. You will receive an email from me with information regarding the in-person meetings I encourage you to also utilize DCDEE’s website on a regular basis for updated information regarding rules and regulations, etc. DCDEE’s website address is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ The program’s 18-month compliance history after today’s visit was 76% Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/12/2025 Number Present: 75 Completed Date: 8/12/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 170 Time In: 12:35 PM Time Out: 03:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to follow up on violations cited during the annual compliance visit conducted on July 30, 2025, and an other visit conducted on August 4, 2025. B. Covington, Director, assisted me with today’s visit. The following items were monitored for compliance: Item #1048 regarding First Aid training. The training is scheduled for August 19, 2025. Item #1065 regarding ITS-SIDS training. The training is scheduled for August 21, 2025. Item #1052 regarding on going training hours for two staff members. The staff are in the process of completing the training hours. Item #1232 regarding a staff development plan and annual evaluation for one staff member. A staff development plan and annual evaluation have not been completed. The Director reported that she is in the process of completing both. Item #1034 regarding health questionnaires for two staff. Questionnaires for both staff were updated during today’s visit. Item #1035 regarding emergency information for two staff. Emergency information for both staff was updated during today’s visit. Item #429 regarding activity plans and the use of Foundations for Early Learning and Development. The Director reported that she met with staff August 7, 2025, to explain the use of Foundations for Early Learning and Development and how to incorporate with the activity plans however, goals have not been included on the activity plans for the week. The Director reported that she will work with the staff on adding goals until they feel comfortable with using the tool. Item #616 regarding dust and dirt build up on shelving in space #9. Shelving has been cleaned. Item #705 regarding equipment and furnishings free of hazards. Pine cones causing sharp edges have not been removed from the sandbox and playground. Item #1311 regarding emergency medical care information for eight children. The Director reported that the emergency medical care form has been given to parents however, she has not received them back. Item #1321 regarding a medical exam for one child. The medical exam has not been received as of today. The Director reported requesting the medical exam from the parent and the parent was going to contact the child’s doctor. Item #1811 regarding a lockdown and shelter-in-place drill. A lockdown drill was conducted on July 22, 2025. Item #1824 regarding annual review and update of EPR plan. The EPR plan has not been updated as of today. The Director reported that she is waiting on a username and password from the corporate office. Item #1878 regarding medical authorization to administer diaper cream for one child. The child is no longer enrolled. Item #1914 regarding the EMC plan. The EMC plan was updated July 31, 2025. Item #862 regarding review of the EMC plan with staff. The plan has not been reviewed with staff as of today. Item #1825 regarding review of the EPR plan with staff. The plan has not been reviewed with staff as of today. A walk through the facility was conducted with the Director. Infants were observed participating in personal care routines and indoor play activities. Children one year of age and older were observed participating in rest time. Items #705, #1232, #429, #1311, #1321, #1824, #862, and #1825 were not confirmed as being corrected today. Additional time is extended for item #1052 since the training is in process and items #1048 and #1065 since the training has been scheduled. There were eight repeat violations cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 429 The activity plan was not designed to stimulate emotional and social, health and physical, approaches to play and learning, language development and communication, and cognitive development for each group of children in care. The activity plans for each classroom did not include goals for Foundations for Early Learning and Development. .0508(b)(1-5) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The sandbox on the toddler playground was covered with a tarp. The sandbox and tarp were covered with pine needles and pine cones. There were also pine cones scattered around the playground. The pine cones cause hazards due to sharp edges. .0601(c) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. The EMC plan was last reviewed with staff on August 3, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff member did not have an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan on file. One staff member's annual evaluation and staff development plan was dated June 7, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1311 Emergency medical care information was not on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and/or was not updated as changes occurred or at least annually for each child. Eight children did not have verification on file that emergency medical care information has been updated annually. .0802(c) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have a medical exam on file. GS110-91(1) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR plan has not been updated since January 2023. .0607(e) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. The EPR plan was last reviewed with staff on August 3, 2025. .0607(f) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 26, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov Technical Assistance: A conversation was held with the Director regarding the importance of correcting violations immediately and maintaining compliance. During the previous visit on August 4, 2025, I suggested the Director contact Claire Council at Child Care Resources Inc. for additional support and technical assistance. The Director reported today that she has contacted Ms. Council with the Quality Everyday Project, and they are in the process of scheduling a time to meet. I offered to conduct a technical assistance visit. After a discussion with the Director. I will contact Ms. Council to schedule a joint visit with the Director. I encouraged the Director to give parents and staff strict deadlines on completing and returning paperwork. Pathway to the Stars- Webinars will be hosted August 18th at 1:00pm and August 20th at 6pm for centers and centers located in a residence. In September, Child Care Consultants will be hosting an in-person meeting to provide additional guidance on changes, the transition plan and timeline. Additional information regarding the webinars will be in the Raise NC Newsletter. You will receive an email from me with information regarding the in-person meetings I encourage you to also utilize DCDEE’s website on a regular basis for updated information regarding rules and regulations, etc. DCDEE’s website address is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ The program’s 18-month compliance history after today’s visit was 76% Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/12/2025 Number Present: 75 Completed Date: 8/12/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 170 Time In: 12:35 PM Time Out: 03:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to follow up on violations cited during the annual compliance visit conducted on July 30, 2025, and an other visit conducted on August 4, 2025. B. Covington, Director, assisted me with today’s visit. The following items were monitored for compliance: Item #1048 regarding First Aid training. The training is scheduled for August 19, 2025. Item #1065 regarding ITS-SIDS training. The training is scheduled for August 21, 2025. Item #1052 regarding on going training hours for two staff members. The staff are in the process of completing the training hours. Item #1232 regarding a staff development plan and annual evaluation for one staff member. A staff development plan and annual evaluation have not been completed. The Director reported that she is in the process of completing both. Item #1034 regarding health questionnaires for two staff. Questionnaires for both staff were updated during today’s visit. Item #1035 regarding emergency information for two staff. Emergency information for both staff was updated during today’s visit. Item #429 regarding activity plans and the use of Foundations for Early Learning and Development. The Director reported that she met with staff August 7, 2025, to explain the use of Foundations for Early Learning and Development and how to incorporate with the activity plans however, goals have not been included on the activity plans for the week. The Director reported that she will work with the staff on adding goals until they feel comfortable with using the tool. Item #616 regarding dust and dirt build up on shelving in space #9. Shelving has been cleaned. Item #705 regarding equipment and furnishings free of hazards. Pine cones causing sharp edges have not been removed from the sandbox and playground. Item #1311 regarding emergency medical care information for eight children. The Director reported that the emergency medical care form has been given to parents however, she has not received them back. Item #1321 regarding a medical exam for one child. The medical exam has not been received as of today. The Director reported requesting the medical exam from the parent and the parent was going to contact the child’s doctor. Item #1811 regarding a lockdown and shelter-in-place drill. A lockdown drill was conducted on July 22, 2025. Item #1824 regarding annual review and update of EPR plan. The EPR plan has not been updated as of today. The Director reported that she is waiting on a username and password from the corporate office. Item #1878 regarding medical authorization to administer diaper cream for one child. The child is no longer enrolled. Item #1914 regarding the EMC plan. The EMC plan was updated July 31, 2025. Item #862 regarding review of the EMC plan with staff. The plan has not been reviewed with staff as of today. Item #1825 regarding review of the EPR plan with staff. The plan has not been reviewed with staff as of today. A walk through the facility was conducted with the Director. Infants were observed participating in personal care routines and indoor play activities. Children one year of age and older were observed participating in rest time. Items #705, #1232, #429, #1311, #1321, #1824, #862, and #1825 were not confirmed as being corrected today. Additional time is extended for item #1052 since the training is in process and items #1048 and #1065 since the training has been scheduled. There were eight repeat violations cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 429 The activity plan was not designed to stimulate emotional and social, health and physical, approaches to play and learning, language development and communication, and cognitive development for each group of children in care. The activity plans for each classroom did not include goals for Foundations for Early Learning and Development. .0508(b)(1-5) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The sandbox on the toddler playground was covered with a tarp. The sandbox and tarp were covered with pine needles and pine cones. There were also pine cones scattered around the playground. The pine cones cause hazards due to sharp edges. .0601(c) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. The EMC plan was last reviewed with staff on August 3, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff member did not have an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan on file. One staff member's annual evaluation and staff development plan was dated June 7, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1311 Emergency medical care information was not on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and/or was not updated as changes occurred or at least annually for each child. Eight children did not have verification on file that emergency medical care information has been updated annually. .0802(c) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have a medical exam on file. GS110-91(1) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR plan has not been updated since January 2023. .0607(e) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. The EPR plan was last reviewed with staff on August 3, 2025. .0607(f) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 26, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov Technical Assistance: A conversation was held with the Director regarding the importance of correcting violations immediately and maintaining compliance. During the previous visit on August 4, 2025, I suggested the Director contact Claire Council at Child Care Resources Inc. for additional support and technical assistance. The Director reported today that she has contacted Ms. Council with the Quality Everyday Project, and they are in the process of scheduling a time to meet. I offered to conduct a technical assistance visit. After a discussion with the Director. I will contact Ms. Council to schedule a joint visit with the Director. I encouraged the Director to give parents and staff strict deadlines on completing and returning paperwork. Pathway to the Stars- Webinars will be hosted August 18th at 1:00pm and August 20th at 6pm for centers and centers located in a residence. In September, Child Care Consultants will be hosting an in-person meeting to provide additional guidance on changes, the transition plan and timeline. Additional information regarding the webinars will be in the Raise NC Newsletter. You will receive an email from me with information regarding the in-person meetings I encourage you to also utilize DCDEE’s website on a regular basis for updated information regarding rules and regulations, etc. DCDEE’s website address is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ The program’s 18-month compliance history after today’s visit was 76% Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0802 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/4/2025 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 8/4/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 155 Time In: 12:55 PM Time Out: 03:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Other Announced/Unannounced: Announced The purpose of today’s announced visit was to monitor staff records. The Annual Compliance visit was conducted on July 30, 2025, however, the Staff and Training worksheets had not been completed prior to the visit. B. Covington, the facility Director, assisted me with today’s visit. I received a copy of the Staff and Training Worksheets. The worksheets were reviewed to ensure all staff were in compliance with criminal background qualifying letters, First Aid, CPR, and ITS-SIDS training for staff working in the infant room. The Files for ten percent of the existing staff were monitored. There have been two new staff hired since an administrative action follow up visit was conducted on October 15, 2024. There were eight violations observed today. The violations were reviewed with the Director. All violations except for item #862 and #1825 regarding the Emergency Medical Care plan and the Emergency Preparedness and Response plan will be added to the annual compliance visit from July 30, 2025. Violations typically observed during this type of visit are normally added to the visit summary from the annual compliance visit however, items #862 and #1825 were not violations on July 30, 2025. I will complete a visit summary addendum to add the other violations to the visit summary. A copy will be emailed to you. Violation Number Comment Rule 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. The EMC plan was last reviewed with the staff on August 3, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. The EPR plan was last reviewed with the staff on August 3, 2024. .0607(f) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 18, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov A discussion was held with the acting Director regarding the number of violations cited. An Administrative Action may be issued to a facility when 16 or more violations of separate rules are cited during a visit. The following technical assistance was provided. First Aid- I reviewed the approved agency and course list for first aid and CPR with the Director and explained how to determine which courses are approved to meet the requirements for First Aid and CPR certification. ITS-SIDS training- For existing infant staff ITS-SIDS training must be renewed every three years. Until the staff member completes the training, she cannot be in the infant room alone. At all times, at least one Teacher with current ITS-SIDS training must be present. Staff Files- A conversation was held with the Director regarding organization and maintaining staff files. Contact information for the Quality Everyday Project which has a component for Director’s was given to the Director. I encourage you to contact Claire Council at Child Care Resources Inc. to request technical assistance and information about the Business Administration portion of the project. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions or concerns, please free to contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: ratio. Open / not marked corrected.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/4/2025 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 8/4/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 155 Time In: 12:55 PM Time Out: 03:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Other Announced/Unannounced: Announced The purpose of today’s announced visit was to monitor staff records. The Annual Compliance visit was conducted on July 30, 2025, however, the Staff and Training worksheets had not been completed prior to the visit. B. Covington, the facility Director, assisted me with today’s visit. I received a copy of the Staff and Training Worksheets. The worksheets were reviewed to ensure all staff were in compliance with criminal background qualifying letters, First Aid, CPR, and ITS-SIDS training for staff working in the infant room. The Files for ten percent of the existing staff were monitored. There have been two new staff hired since an administrative action follow up visit was conducted on October 15, 2024. There were eight violations observed today. The violations were reviewed with the Director. All violations except for item #862 and #1825 regarding the Emergency Medical Care plan and the Emergency Preparedness and Response plan will be added to the annual compliance visit from July 30, 2025. Violations typically observed during this type of visit are normally added to the visit summary from the annual compliance visit however, items #862 and #1825 were not violations on July 30, 2025. I will complete a visit summary addendum to add the other violations to the visit summary. A copy will be emailed to you. Violation Number Comment Rule 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. The EMC plan was last reviewed with the staff on August 3, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. The EPR plan was last reviewed with the staff on August 3, 2024. .0607(f) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 18, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov A discussion was held with the acting Director regarding the number of violations cited. An Administrative Action may be issued to a facility when 16 or more violations of separate rules are cited during a visit. The following technical assistance was provided. First Aid- I reviewed the approved agency and course list for first aid and CPR with the Director and explained how to determine which courses are approved to meet the requirements for First Aid and CPR certification. ITS-SIDS training- For existing infant staff ITS-SIDS training must be renewed every three years. Until the staff member completes the training, she cannot be in the infant room alone. At all times, at least one Teacher with current ITS-SIDS training must be present. Staff Files- A conversation was held with the Director regarding organization and maintaining staff files. Contact information for the Quality Everyday Project which has a component for Director’s was given to the Director. I encourage you to contact Claire Council at Child Care Resources Inc. to request technical assistance and information about the Business Administration portion of the project. Thank you for your time today. If you have any questions or concerns, please free to contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0514 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/30/2025 Number Present: 71 Completed Date: 7/30/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. The facility operates with a One Star Rated License with an effective date of February 2, 2023. The facility Director, B. Covington, assisted me with the visit. We completed a walk-through of the facility. I observed children in the indoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, teacher directed activities, free play of indoor activities, group time. Staff members were observed leading group time, supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 28, 2025, and Kindercare Education LLC was listed as current- active. A sanitation inspection was completed July 30, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was received on August 4, 2024, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Emergency Drill Log was reviewed today. A shelter-in-place drill was last conducted on April 22, 2025. A fire drill was conducted on June 19, 2025. Playground safety checklists were also monitored and are occurring each month as required. Files for ten percent of children enrolled were monitored. The Staff and Training Worksheets were not completed prior to today’s visit. An announced visit is scheduled for Monday, August 4, 2025 to review staff files. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 429 The activity plan was not designed to stimulate emotional and social, health and physical, approaches to play and learning, language development and communication, and cognitive development for each group of children in care. The activity plans for each classroom did not include goals for Foundations for Early Learning and Development. .0508(b)(1-5) 445 For children under three years of age, developmentally appropriate toys and activities were not provided as outlined in Rule. In space #12, dramatic play materials were stored on shelving that was turned to the wall not allowing children access. .0510 (e ) (1)(A-G) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. In space #9, the shelving used to store materials for the children was visibly dirty with dust/dirt build up where contact paper had been used. .2822(a)(1-4) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The sandbox on the toddler playground was covered with a tarp however, the sand and tarp was covered with pine needles and pine cones. The pine cones cause hazards due to sharp edges. There were pine cones also scattered around the playground. .0601(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In space #8, children two and three years of age are cared for. There was a bottle of glitter stored in an unlocked bottom cabinet which was labeled not for children under three years of age. In space #10, there was a zip loc bag of small batteries stored on top of cubbies and one battery stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 860 Balloons were accessible to children. In space #7, a child two years of age was walking around the classroom with a latex balloon. .0604(q) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Two staff did not have verification on file that annual health questionnaires were completed. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Two staff did not complete the emergency information form annually. .0701(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two staff did not have first aid training on file. .1102(c) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. One staff member completed seven of the required ten hours of on-going training. One staff member required to have twenty hours of on-going training did not have verification on file of any training for the year. .1103(a) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. ITS-SIDS training for a teacher working in the infant classroom expired July 8, 2025. .1102(f) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff member did not have an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan on file. One staff member's annual evaluation and staff development plan was dated June 7, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1311 Emergency medical care information was not on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and/or was not updated as changes occurred or at least annually for each child. Eight children did not have verification on file that emergency medical care information had been updated annually. .0802(c) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have a medical exam on file. GS110-91(1) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. A shelter in place drill was last conducted April 22, 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR plan has not been updated since January 2023. .0607(e) 1878 A drug or medicine was administered in a manner not authorized by the child's parent, physician or other authorized health professional. In space #2, a diaper cream for one child was present, however the parent did not sign the permission to administer. .0803(1)(c ) 1914 The person identified as the person or alternate person responsible for carrying out the emergency medical care plan was not on the premises at all times and/or did not accompany children for off premise activities. The previous Assistant Director is listed as an alternate person on the emergency medical care plan. .0802(b)(1-2) 9999 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Purses and other personal effects belonging to child care center employees shall be kept inaccessible to children and shall be stored in accordance with this Rule, as applicable. In space 10, a staff member's purse was stored less than five feet above the floor. The is a violation of requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2820. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 13, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov The following technical assistance was provided: Fire Inspection-The Director was reminded that a fire inspection is due by August 4, 2025. The original approved inspection must be submitted to me within one week of receipt. Emergency Medical Care Plan-The plan must be updated as changes occur. The Director reported that the Assistant Director hasn’t been employed at the facility since June 2025. EPR Plan- The EPR plan must be reviewed annually and updated as changes occur. Review of the plan today indicated the previous Director name, previous Child Care Consultant and previous Health Care Consultant. North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development- Activity plans did not include NC Foundations. Extra books were given to the Director during the visit. The book can also be accessed on line with the link provided https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/N/NC_Foundations.pdf?ver=2017-05-16-105950-953 A conversation was held with the Director regarding the rated license. The Director stated that the facility has started the process of becoming NAEYC accredited. The program’s 18-month compliance history after today’s visit is 80%. I encourage you to also utilize DCDEE’s website on a regular basis for updated information regarding rules and regulations, etc. DCDEE’s website address is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

GS110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/30/2025 Number Present: 71 Completed Date: 7/30/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. The facility operates with a One Star Rated License with an effective date of February 2, 2023. The facility Director, B. Covington, assisted me with the visit. We completed a walk-through of the facility. I observed children in the indoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, teacher directed activities, free play of indoor activities, group time. Staff members were observed leading group time, supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 28, 2025, and Kindercare Education LLC was listed as current- active. A sanitation inspection was completed July 30, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was received on August 4, 2024, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Emergency Drill Log was reviewed today. A shelter-in-place drill was last conducted on April 22, 2025. A fire drill was conducted on June 19, 2025. Playground safety checklists were also monitored and are occurring each month as required. Files for ten percent of children enrolled were monitored. The Staff and Training Worksheets were not completed prior to today’s visit. An announced visit is scheduled for Monday, August 4, 2025 to review staff files. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 429 The activity plan was not designed to stimulate emotional and social, health and physical, approaches to play and learning, language development and communication, and cognitive development for each group of children in care. The activity plans for each classroom did not include goals for Foundations for Early Learning and Development. .0508(b)(1-5) 445 For children under three years of age, developmentally appropriate toys and activities were not provided as outlined in Rule. In space #12, dramatic play materials were stored on shelving that was turned to the wall not allowing children access. .0510 (e ) (1)(A-G) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. In space #9, the shelving used to store materials for the children was visibly dirty with dust/dirt build up where contact paper had been used. .2822(a)(1-4) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The sandbox on the toddler playground was covered with a tarp however, the sand and tarp was covered with pine needles and pine cones. The pine cones cause hazards due to sharp edges. There were pine cones also scattered around the playground. .0601(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In space #8, children two and three years of age are cared for. There was a bottle of glitter stored in an unlocked bottom cabinet which was labeled not for children under three years of age. In space #10, there was a zip loc bag of small batteries stored on top of cubbies and one battery stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 860 Balloons were accessible to children. In space #7, a child two years of age was walking around the classroom with a latex balloon. .0604(q) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Two staff did not have verification on file that annual health questionnaires were completed. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Two staff did not complete the emergency information form annually. .0701(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two staff did not have first aid training on file. .1102(c) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. One staff member completed seven of the required ten hours of on-going training. One staff member required to have twenty hours of on-going training did not have verification on file of any training for the year. .1103(a) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. ITS-SIDS training for a teacher working in the infant classroom expired July 8, 2025. .1102(f) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff member did not have an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan on file. One staff member's annual evaluation and staff development plan was dated June 7, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1311 Emergency medical care information was not on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and/or was not updated as changes occurred or at least annually for each child. Eight children did not have verification on file that emergency medical care information had been updated annually. .0802(c) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have a medical exam on file. GS110-91(1) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. A shelter in place drill was last conducted April 22, 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR plan has not been updated since January 2023. .0607(e) 1878 A drug or medicine was administered in a manner not authorized by the child's parent, physician or other authorized health professional. In space #2, a diaper cream for one child was present, however the parent did not sign the permission to administer. .0803(1)(c ) 1914 The person identified as the person or alternate person responsible for carrying out the emergency medical care plan was not on the premises at all times and/or did not accompany children for off premise activities. The previous Assistant Director is listed as an alternate person on the emergency medical care plan. .0802(b)(1-2) 9999 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Purses and other personal effects belonging to child care center employees shall be kept inaccessible to children and shall be stored in accordance with this Rule, as applicable. In space 10, a staff member's purse was stored less than five feet above the floor. The is a violation of requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2820. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 13, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov The following technical assistance was provided: Fire Inspection-The Director was reminded that a fire inspection is due by August 4, 2025. The original approved inspection must be submitted to me within one week of receipt. Emergency Medical Care Plan-The plan must be updated as changes occur. The Director reported that the Assistant Director hasn’t been employed at the facility since June 2025. EPR Plan- The EPR plan must be reviewed annually and updated as changes occur. Review of the plan today indicated the previous Director name, previous Child Care Consultant and previous Health Care Consultant. North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development- Activity plans did not include NC Foundations. Extra books were given to the Director during the visit. The book can also be accessed on line with the link provided https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/N/NC_Foundations.pdf?ver=2017-05-16-105950-953 A conversation was held with the Director regarding the rated license. The Director stated that the facility has started the process of becoming NAEYC accredited. The program’s 18-month compliance history after today’s visit is 80%. I encourage you to also utilize DCDEE’s website on a regular basis for updated information regarding rules and regulations, etc. DCDEE’s website address is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/30/2025 Number Present: 71 Completed Date: 7/30/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:35 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. The facility operates with a One Star Rated License with an effective date of February 2, 2023. The facility Director, B. Covington, assisted me with the visit. We completed a walk-through of the facility. I observed children in the indoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in personal care routines, teacher directed activities, free play of indoor activities, group time. Staff members were observed leading group time, supervising activities and assisting with personal care routines. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on July 28, 2025, and Kindercare Education LLC was listed as current- active. A sanitation inspection was completed July 30, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was received on August 4, 2024, and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The Emergency Drill Log was reviewed today. A shelter-in-place drill was last conducted on April 22, 2025. A fire drill was conducted on June 19, 2025. Playground safety checklists were also monitored and are occurring each month as required. Files for ten percent of children enrolled were monitored. The Staff and Training Worksheets were not completed prior to today’s visit. An announced visit is scheduled for Monday, August 4, 2025 to review staff files. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 429 The activity plan was not designed to stimulate emotional and social, health and physical, approaches to play and learning, language development and communication, and cognitive development for each group of children in care. The activity plans for each classroom did not include goals for Foundations for Early Learning and Development. .0508(b)(1-5) 445 For children under three years of age, developmentally appropriate toys and activities were not provided as outlined in Rule. In space #12, dramatic play materials were stored on shelving that was turned to the wall not allowing children access. .0510 (e ) (1)(A-G) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. In space #9, the shelving used to store materials for the children was visibly dirty with dust/dirt build up where contact paper had been used. .2822(a)(1-4) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The sandbox on the toddler playground was covered with a tarp however, the sand and tarp was covered with pine needles and pine cones. The pine cones cause hazards due to sharp edges. There were pine cones also scattered around the playground. .0601(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In space #8, children two and three years of age are cared for. There was a bottle of glitter stored in an unlocked bottom cabinet which was labeled not for children under three years of age. In space #10, there was a zip loc bag of small batteries stored on top of cubbies and one battery stored in an unlocked cabinet. .2820(b) 860 Balloons were accessible to children. In space #7, a child two years of age was walking around the classroom with a latex balloon. .0604(q) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Two staff did not have verification on file that annual health questionnaires were completed. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Two staff did not complete the emergency information form annually. .0701(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two staff did not have first aid training on file. .1102(c) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. One staff member completed seven of the required ten hours of on-going training. One staff member required to have twenty hours of on-going training did not have verification on file of any training for the year. .1103(a) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. ITS-SIDS training for a teacher working in the infant classroom expired July 8, 2025. .1102(f) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. One staff member did not have an annual staff evaluation and staff development plan on file. One staff member's annual evaluation and staff development plan was dated June 7, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1311 Emergency medical care information was not on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and/or was not updated as changes occurred or at least annually for each child. Eight children did not have verification on file that emergency medical care information had been updated annually. .0802(c) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. One child did not have a medical exam on file. GS110-91(1) 1811 Shelter-in-place or lockdown drills were not practiced every three months and/or drill record was incomplete. A shelter in place drill was last conducted April 22, 2025. .0604(u);.0302(d)(8) 1824 The trained staff did not review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changed to ensure all information was current. The EPR plan has not been updated since January 2023. .0607(e) 1878 A drug or medicine was administered in a manner not authorized by the child's parent, physician or other authorized health professional. In space #2, a diaper cream for one child was present, however the parent did not sign the permission to administer. .0803(1)(c ) 1914 The person identified as the person or alternate person responsible for carrying out the emergency medical care plan was not on the premises at all times and/or did not accompany children for off premise activities. The previous Assistant Director is listed as an alternate person on the emergency medical care plan. .0802(b)(1-2) 9999 A violation was found for which there is no item number. Purses and other personal effects belonging to child care center employees shall be kept inaccessible to children and shall be stored in accordance with this Rule, as applicable. In space 10, a staff member's purse was stored less than five feet above the floor. The is a violation of requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2820. Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before August 13, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov The following technical assistance was provided: Fire Inspection-The Director was reminded that a fire inspection is due by August 4, 2025. The original approved inspection must be submitted to me within one week of receipt. Emergency Medical Care Plan-The plan must be updated as changes occur. The Director reported that the Assistant Director hasn’t been employed at the facility since June 2025. EPR Plan- The EPR plan must be reviewed annually and updated as changes occur. Review of the plan today indicated the previous Director name, previous Child Care Consultant and previous Health Care Consultant. North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development- Activity plans did not include NC Foundations. Extra books were given to the Director during the visit. The book can also be accessed on line with the link provided https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/N/NC_Foundations.pdf?ver=2017-05-16-105950-953 A conversation was held with the Director regarding the rated license. The Director stated that the facility has started the process of becoming NAEYC accredited. The program’s 18-month compliance history after today’s visit is 80%. I encourage you to also utilize DCDEE’s website on a regular basis for updated information regarding rules and regulations, etc. DCDEE’s website address is https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0806 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0425-116L Visit Date: 4/15/2025 Number Present: 74 Completed Date: 4/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements. Upon arrival, I was greeted by Director, P. Covington. I explained the reason for the visit. A discussion was held with the Director about information received indicating there were concerns regarding health standards, nutrition and incident reports. I also interviewed the Assistant Director and three additional staff members separately regarding the allegations. Incident reports- There are concerns that incident reports are not being completed as required. The Director reported that she was familiar with the allegation, because she had spoken with a parent regarding concerns that incident reports had not been completed when a child had visible marks on them. The Director reported that incident reports are completed anytime the staff administers first aid to children such as bites, scratches, head injuries, blood, etc. She also reported that with these concerns, the staff reported they did not notice any marks or injuries on the child therefore, an incident report was not completed. Both Teachers reported that incident reports are completed immediately when an incident occurs. The Director reported that staff have been instructed to notify her of any incidents and if they cannot complete the report to call her and she will assist so the report can be completed immediately. The Emergency Medical Care plan was reviewed during the visit, the Director is listed as the person responsible for determining the level of care needed. It was also reported by the administrators and teaching staff that, parents are also notified via the KinderCare App when an incident report has been completed so they are aware an incident occurred. It was also reported in some cases pictures are taken and sent to the parent. Nutrition-There are concerns that drinking water is not available throughout the day for children. The Director reported that parents bring water bottles to school for the children so that water is available. It was also reported that during the warmer months when the temperature is 80 degrees and above that coolers of water will be placed on the playground with cups available each day. Teaching staff reported that water is offered after coming in from outside play which is approximately 10:30a.m. and 4:00p.m., afternoon snack which is approximately 2: 45p.m, and anytime that ask for it. A discussion was held with the teaching staff about how the younger children communicate when they want water. Teaching staff reported that the children ask for it by pointing and saying “wa wa”. Milk is also offered to the children during breakfast and lunch. Health standards-There is a concern that children’s clothes are not changed when wet/soiled. The Assistant Director reported that he was aware of the allegation because he had spoken with a parent about concerns of a child’s clothes being wet at the time of pick up on April 3, 2025. He reported that the parent changed the child’s clothes before leaving the facility and also confirmed pictures of the child’s foot being taken in the parking lot. Additional information received included pictures that were taken at the facility showing the child’s feet being pruned from wetness. I reviewed the child’s daily activity sheet from that day via the App which indicated the child’s last diaper change was 2:38PM. Documentation showed the child was picked up at 5:40PM. The classroom Teachers leave at 4:15p.m. and 4:45p.m. Children are transitioned to a different classroom in the afternoon. It was reported that children have extra clothes on site as well as the facility has extra clothes if needed. However, all staff reported not being aware the child was wet. Based on discussions with the Director, Assistant Director, additional teaching staff, and my observations, there was not enough information to confirm the allegations regarding incident reports not being completed as required and water not being available. Based on pictures and documentation provided, the allegation regarding a child’s clothes were not changed when wet is confirmed. A walk through the facility was not conducted. It was reported by the Director that 74 children were present during my visit. The following violation was cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 401 Diapers were not changed whenever they were soiled or wet and/or were changed on a shift basis. Clothing of a child one year of age was wet and feet pruned at the time of pick up. It was documented that the child's last diaper change was 2:38p.m. The child was picked up at 5:40p.m. 10A NCAC 09 .0806(a) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before April 29, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov The following technical assistance was provided: A discussion was held with the Director regarding diaper changing procedures. Diapers must be changed whenever they become soiled or wet. The Director stated that the child may have been changed, and it just wasn’t documented. We discussed the importance of accurate documentation. We also discussed how children are transitioned in the afternoon. It was reported that Teacher’s verbally tell staff receiving the children about their day. I suggested there be a transition sheet for the remaining children that includes information such as last diaper change, incident reports, etc. A discussion was held with the Director regarding incident reports and repeated injuries. It was suggested to use the reports as a tool to know when there is a pattern and action should be taken such as removing or relocating equipment, furnishings, adjusting outdoor schedules, and/or an increase in supervision. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: KAYE DUNLAP Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0425-116L Visit Date: 4/15/2025 Number Present: 74 Completed Date: 4/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements. Upon arrival, I was greeted by Director, P. Covington. I explained the reason for the visit. A discussion was held with the Director about information received indicating there were concerns regarding health standards, nutrition and incident reports. I also interviewed the Assistant Director and three additional staff members separately regarding the allegations. Incident reports- There are concerns that incident reports are not being completed as required. The Director reported that she was familiar with the allegation, because she had spoken with a parent regarding concerns that incident reports had not been completed when a child had visible marks on them. The Director reported that incident reports are completed anytime the staff administers first aid to children such as bites, scratches, head injuries, blood, etc. She also reported that with these concerns, the staff reported they did not notice any marks or injuries on the child therefore, an incident report was not completed. Both Teachers reported that incident reports are completed immediately when an incident occurs. The Director reported that staff have been instructed to notify her of any incidents and if they cannot complete the report to call her and she will assist so the report can be completed immediately. The Emergency Medical Care plan was reviewed during the visit, the Director is listed as the person responsible for determining the level of care needed. It was also reported by the administrators and teaching staff that, parents are also notified via the KinderCare App when an incident report has been completed so they are aware an incident occurred. It was also reported in some cases pictures are taken and sent to the parent. Nutrition-There are concerns that drinking water is not available throughout the day for children. The Director reported that parents bring water bottles to school for the children so that water is available. It was also reported that during the warmer months when the temperature is 80 degrees and above that coolers of water will be placed on the playground with cups available each day. Teaching staff reported that water is offered after coming in from outside play which is approximately 10:30a.m. and 4:00p.m., afternoon snack which is approximately 2: 45p.m, and anytime that ask for it. A discussion was held with the teaching staff about how the younger children communicate when they want water. Teaching staff reported that the children ask for it by pointing and saying “wa wa”. Milk is also offered to the children during breakfast and lunch. Health standards-There is a concern that children’s clothes are not changed when wet/soiled. The Assistant Director reported that he was aware of the allegation because he had spoken with a parent about concerns of a child’s clothes being wet at the time of pick up on April 3, 2025. He reported that the parent changed the child’s clothes before leaving the facility and also confirmed pictures of the child’s foot being taken in the parking lot. Additional information received included pictures that were taken at the facility showing the child’s feet being pruned from wetness. I reviewed the child’s daily activity sheet from that day via the App which indicated the child’s last diaper change was 2:38PM. Documentation showed the child was picked up at 5:40PM. The classroom Teachers leave at 4:15p.m. and 4:45p.m. Children are transitioned to a different classroom in the afternoon. It was reported that children have extra clothes on site as well as the facility has extra clothes if needed. However, all staff reported not being aware the child was wet. Based on discussions with the Director, Assistant Director, additional teaching staff, and my observations, there was not enough information to confirm the allegations regarding incident reports not being completed as required and water not being available. Based on pictures and documentation provided, the allegation regarding a child’s clothes were not changed when wet is confirmed. A walk through the facility was not conducted. It was reported by the Director that 74 children were present during my visit. The following violation was cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 401 Diapers were not changed whenever they were soiled or wet and/or were changed on a shift basis. Clothing of a child one year of age was wet and feet pruned at the time of pick up. It was documented that the child's last diaper change was 2:38p.m. The child was picked up at 5:40p.m. 10A NCAC 09 .0806(a) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before April 29, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Kaye Dunlap, Child Care Consultant PO Box 627 Matthews, NC 28106 Kaye.Dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov The following technical assistance was provided: A discussion was held with the Director regarding diaper changing procedures. Diapers must be changed whenever they become soiled or wet. The Director stated that the child may have been changed, and it just wasn’t documented. We discussed the importance of accurate documentation. We also discussed how children are transitioned in the afternoon. It was reported that Teacher’s verbally tell staff receiving the children about their day. I suggested there be a transition sheet for the remaining children that includes information such as last diaper change, incident reports, etc. A discussion was held with the Director regarding incident reports and repeated injuries. It was suggested to use the reports as a tool to know when there is a pattern and action should be taken such as removing or relocating equipment, furnishings, adjusting outdoor schedules, and/or an increase in supervision. Thank you for your time today. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at 704-594-0152 or by email at kaye.dunlap@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0606 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: TAMIKA POWELL Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0225-222A Visit Date: 2/25/2025 Number Present: 71 Completed Date: 2/25/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 85 Time In: 10:50 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Patillia Covington, administrator, accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. Covington and two additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. On February 18, 2025, the temperature in the classroom for infants was below 68 degrees Fahrenheit. The safe sleep policy indicates the classroom for infants will maintain the temperature between 68-75 degrees Fahrenheit. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) You may contact me at Tamika Powell, Investigations Consultant, (704) 330-9725, Tamika.t.powell@dhhs.nc.gov or Veronica Grant, South Central Investigations Team Supervisor, veronica.grant@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/7/2024 Number Present: 68 Completed Date: 8/7/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 305 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the annual compliance visit. The 18 month compliance history prior today’s visit was 81%. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Bianca Covington, Director. I explained the purpose of today’s visit. You were able to accompany me on today’s walkthrough. We observed in each classroom and monitoring each outdoor play environment. You have a fenced in pool area that is not in use, the pool has been drained and covered and you do not use that fenced in area of the outdoor play environment. During the walkthrough, I observed large group time, free choice center play, hand washing, diaper changes, outdoor play, lunch and naptime. Supervision and staff/child ratios were observed throughout today’s visit. Children upset were tended to immediately and nurturing tones were heard as staff spoke with children in care. Each classroom, except space 12, had a current activity plan posted. All interest centers in each classroom had a variety of material accessible for play. I observed glue residue on shelves in many of the classrooms, that need to be cleaned. One door in the hallway leading to the outdoor environment was observed rusted at the base. Walls in Space 8 were observed with chipped paint exposing drywall and a few small holes in the wall where something was hung. Medications were reviewed, there were a few on site with expired written permission and two diaper creams without written permission. Infant safe sleep checks and current feeding schedules were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Bottles were observed labeled and dated accurately. Water bottles need to be stored individually so they do not touch one another when stored. A sample of children’s files were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Staff files were reviewed, you provided an updated staff and training worksheet I used to review staff files. Annual staff development plans and annual reviews have not been completed for staff who have been employed for a year or more. Two staff have not had an annual review of the EPR or EMC plan, one staff does not have proof of obtaining recognizing and responding to suspicions of maltreatment within the first 90 days of hire. One staff did not have a signed shaken baby syndrome policy on file and was able to review and sign it during the visit. I reviewed program records. The last fire inspection was conducted on 8-5-24; you provided a copy today. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 7-24-24. The emergency drill log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. The license was observed posted with all permit restrictions being maintained. The monthly playground inspections were reviewed, one has not been complete for June or July 2024. The incident logs were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The EMC plan was observed posted. The current menu was posted in the lobby, reviewed and found meeting compliance. The following violations were observed during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in Space 12. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. Space 9 i observed the toy pretend sink with visible dirt residue. Many storage shelves in classrooms had tape residue left on the shelves. .2822(a)(1-4) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Walls in Space 8 were observed with drywall exposed. One door in the hallway leading to the playground was observed rusted at the base. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The stationary equipment for 2-5 year olds was observed with one of the base poles cracked leaving sharp edges. Gate latch on the preschool playground does not function properly and cannot latch. .0601(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. During the walkthrough a mop bucket with cleaning solution, bathroom cleaner and window cleaner was observed in the hallway outside the hall bathrooms. The staff cleaning had stepped away and left the items unattended and did not lock them back up when not in use. The locked cabinet storing aerosol cleaning supplies was not locked in Space 8. .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. One sunscreen in Space 7 and one diaper cream in Space 12 did not have written permission to administer on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. One sunscreen permission in Space 7 expired 6/24. One sunscreen and one diaper cream permission in Space 8 expired 5/24. Two sunscreen permissions in Space 8 expired 5/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A monthly playground inspection for the month of June and July were not documented. .0605(q) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. Two staff do not have proof on file they reviewed the current EMC plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. (9) nine staff, who have been employed more than a year have not had an annual review or staff development plan updated annually. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. Two staff do not have proof of file they received a review of the current EPR plan. .0607(f) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. One staff hired 6-3-24 did not have a signed shaken baby syndrome policy on file. .0608(d)(1-4) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. I observed many staff medical information in the main staff file and not separated from the main staff file. .0701(d) Compliance Letter: Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Bianca Covington, administrator, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the consultant, andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before August 21, 2024. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Program monitoring: If you don't already, I encourage you have opening, closing checklist for admin and teacher staff to ensure each day the classrooms and playgrounds are ready for care. The list could have line items such as current activity plan posted, walls in good repair, material clean and in good repair, outlets covered, medications stored properly, cleaning supplies stored properly, etc. These checks will help ensure you maintain compliance with many different child care requirements. Staff Files: You stated that you had help from a co-director and she stated medical information did not need to be stored separate. I reviewed, with you, 10A NCAC 09. 0701(d)Staff medical statements, proof of a tuberculosis test or screening, and completed health questionnaires shall be included in the staff member's medical file, which must be maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file in the center. I encourage you utilize the staff file checklist and the staff and training worksheets to help maintain accurate staff files. Medications: I encourage all medications be checked in my admin to ensure you have all accurate information prior to allowing medication remain on site. Then each month have staff check medications in their classrooms to ensure permission forms are valid and match the child's medication on site. Currently you don't have any medications required for chronic conditions so medical action plans aren't required at this time. I encourage you review the medication requirements found in .0803 of the child care rules and contact me if you have any questions. Other: Record retention: We discussed record retention, I reminded you that there are charts to assist you in 10A NCAC 09 .2318 of the child care requirements. Administrative Action: Stipulations 1 will be monitored at each visit and will be on-going. It is the expectation the facility maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. Today, violations were observed, therefore stipulation #1 is not maintained. Stipulation #2 – You contacted Jennifer Kappas, CCRI Specialist, on May 21, 2024, to schedule the A+ Supervision training. The training has been scheduled for July 19, 2024. You submitted the required training information to me on 7/22/24, the information is on file and available for review. Stipulation #3 - The supervision plan was submitted to me on 8/2/24. During today’s visit I discussed the written plan submitted, which is not approved at this time. The following bullets were not addressed in the written plan and must be included in the written plan in order to be approved. When children are arriving and departing from the facility each day When children are toileting When more than one group of children is combined When children are preparing for and eating meals When children are transitioned from one area to another When children are transitioned from one caregiver to another When staff members need to complete tasks outside the classroom Consequences of staff members’ non-compliance with policies and procedures We also discussed a new deadline for submitted the updated plan is August 21,2024. Stipulation #4 Once the written plan in Stipulation #3 has been approved you will schedule a staff meeting within 2 weeks of the plans approval and review it with all staff. And within 3 days of the meeting, you will submit the required information to me, which is outlined in the stipulation of the action. If you have any questions please contact me (704)594-0039 or andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0514 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/7/2024 Number Present: 68 Completed Date: 8/7/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 305 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the annual compliance visit. The 18 month compliance history prior today’s visit was 81%. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Bianca Covington, Director. I explained the purpose of today’s visit. You were able to accompany me on today’s walkthrough. We observed in each classroom and monitoring each outdoor play environment. You have a fenced in pool area that is not in use, the pool has been drained and covered and you do not use that fenced in area of the outdoor play environment. During the walkthrough, I observed large group time, free choice center play, hand washing, diaper changes, outdoor play, lunch and naptime. Supervision and staff/child ratios were observed throughout today’s visit. Children upset were tended to immediately and nurturing tones were heard as staff spoke with children in care. Each classroom, except space 12, had a current activity plan posted. All interest centers in each classroom had a variety of material accessible for play. I observed glue residue on shelves in many of the classrooms, that need to be cleaned. One door in the hallway leading to the outdoor environment was observed rusted at the base. Walls in Space 8 were observed with chipped paint exposing drywall and a few small holes in the wall where something was hung. Medications were reviewed, there were a few on site with expired written permission and two diaper creams without written permission. Infant safe sleep checks and current feeding schedules were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Bottles were observed labeled and dated accurately. Water bottles need to be stored individually so they do not touch one another when stored. A sample of children’s files were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Staff files were reviewed, you provided an updated staff and training worksheet I used to review staff files. Annual staff development plans and annual reviews have not been completed for staff who have been employed for a year or more. Two staff have not had an annual review of the EPR or EMC plan, one staff does not have proof of obtaining recognizing and responding to suspicions of maltreatment within the first 90 days of hire. One staff did not have a signed shaken baby syndrome policy on file and was able to review and sign it during the visit. I reviewed program records. The last fire inspection was conducted on 8-5-24; you provided a copy today. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 7-24-24. The emergency drill log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. The license was observed posted with all permit restrictions being maintained. The monthly playground inspections were reviewed, one has not been complete for June or July 2024. The incident logs were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The EMC plan was observed posted. The current menu was posted in the lobby, reviewed and found meeting compliance. The following violations were observed during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in Space 12. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. Space 9 i observed the toy pretend sink with visible dirt residue. Many storage shelves in classrooms had tape residue left on the shelves. .2822(a)(1-4) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Walls in Space 8 were observed with drywall exposed. One door in the hallway leading to the playground was observed rusted at the base. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The stationary equipment for 2-5 year olds was observed with one of the base poles cracked leaving sharp edges. Gate latch on the preschool playground does not function properly and cannot latch. .0601(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. During the walkthrough a mop bucket with cleaning solution, bathroom cleaner and window cleaner was observed in the hallway outside the hall bathrooms. The staff cleaning had stepped away and left the items unattended and did not lock them back up when not in use. The locked cabinet storing aerosol cleaning supplies was not locked in Space 8. .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. One sunscreen in Space 7 and one diaper cream in Space 12 did not have written permission to administer on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. One sunscreen permission in Space 7 expired 6/24. One sunscreen and one diaper cream permission in Space 8 expired 5/24. Two sunscreen permissions in Space 8 expired 5/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A monthly playground inspection for the month of June and July were not documented. .0605(q) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. Two staff do not have proof on file they reviewed the current EMC plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. (9) nine staff, who have been employed more than a year have not had an annual review or staff development plan updated annually. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. Two staff do not have proof of file they received a review of the current EPR plan. .0607(f) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. One staff hired 6-3-24 did not have a signed shaken baby syndrome policy on file. .0608(d)(1-4) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. I observed many staff medical information in the main staff file and not separated from the main staff file. .0701(d) Compliance Letter: Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Bianca Covington, administrator, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the consultant, andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before August 21, 2024. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Program monitoring: If you don't already, I encourage you have opening, closing checklist for admin and teacher staff to ensure each day the classrooms and playgrounds are ready for care. The list could have line items such as current activity plan posted, walls in good repair, material clean and in good repair, outlets covered, medications stored properly, cleaning supplies stored properly, etc. These checks will help ensure you maintain compliance with many different child care requirements. Staff Files: You stated that you had help from a co-director and she stated medical information did not need to be stored separate. I reviewed, with you, 10A NCAC 09. 0701(d)Staff medical statements, proof of a tuberculosis test or screening, and completed health questionnaires shall be included in the staff member's medical file, which must be maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file in the center. I encourage you utilize the staff file checklist and the staff and training worksheets to help maintain accurate staff files. Medications: I encourage all medications be checked in my admin to ensure you have all accurate information prior to allowing medication remain on site. Then each month have staff check medications in their classrooms to ensure permission forms are valid and match the child's medication on site. Currently you don't have any medications required for chronic conditions so medical action plans aren't required at this time. I encourage you review the medication requirements found in .0803 of the child care rules and contact me if you have any questions. Other: Record retention: We discussed record retention, I reminded you that there are charts to assist you in 10A NCAC 09 .2318 of the child care requirements. Administrative Action: Stipulations 1 will be monitored at each visit and will be on-going. It is the expectation the facility maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. Today, violations were observed, therefore stipulation #1 is not maintained. Stipulation #2 – You contacted Jennifer Kappas, CCRI Specialist, on May 21, 2024, to schedule the A+ Supervision training. The training has been scheduled for July 19, 2024. You submitted the required training information to me on 7/22/24, the information is on file and available for review. Stipulation #3 - The supervision plan was submitted to me on 8/2/24. During today’s visit I discussed the written plan submitted, which is not approved at this time. The following bullets were not addressed in the written plan and must be included in the written plan in order to be approved. When children are arriving and departing from the facility each day When children are toileting When more than one group of children is combined When children are preparing for and eating meals When children are transitioned from one area to another When children are transitioned from one caregiver to another When staff members need to complete tasks outside the classroom Consequences of staff members’ non-compliance with policies and procedures We also discussed a new deadline for submitted the updated plan is August 21,2024. Stipulation #4 Once the written plan in Stipulation #3 has been approved you will schedule a staff meeting within 2 weeks of the plans approval and review it with all staff. And within 3 days of the meeting, you will submit the required information to me, which is outlined in the stipulation of the action. If you have any questions please contact me (704)594-0039 or andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0802 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/7/2024 Number Present: 68 Completed Date: 8/7/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 305 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the annual compliance visit. The 18 month compliance history prior today’s visit was 81%. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Bianca Covington, Director. I explained the purpose of today’s visit. You were able to accompany me on today’s walkthrough. We observed in each classroom and monitoring each outdoor play environment. You have a fenced in pool area that is not in use, the pool has been drained and covered and you do not use that fenced in area of the outdoor play environment. During the walkthrough, I observed large group time, free choice center play, hand washing, diaper changes, outdoor play, lunch and naptime. Supervision and staff/child ratios were observed throughout today’s visit. Children upset were tended to immediately and nurturing tones were heard as staff spoke with children in care. Each classroom, except space 12, had a current activity plan posted. All interest centers in each classroom had a variety of material accessible for play. I observed glue residue on shelves in many of the classrooms, that need to be cleaned. One door in the hallway leading to the outdoor environment was observed rusted at the base. Walls in Space 8 were observed with chipped paint exposing drywall and a few small holes in the wall where something was hung. Medications were reviewed, there were a few on site with expired written permission and two diaper creams without written permission. Infant safe sleep checks and current feeding schedules were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Bottles were observed labeled and dated accurately. Water bottles need to be stored individually so they do not touch one another when stored. A sample of children’s files were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Staff files were reviewed, you provided an updated staff and training worksheet I used to review staff files. Annual staff development plans and annual reviews have not been completed for staff who have been employed for a year or more. Two staff have not had an annual review of the EPR or EMC plan, one staff does not have proof of obtaining recognizing and responding to suspicions of maltreatment within the first 90 days of hire. One staff did not have a signed shaken baby syndrome policy on file and was able to review and sign it during the visit. I reviewed program records. The last fire inspection was conducted on 8-5-24; you provided a copy today. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 7-24-24. The emergency drill log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. The license was observed posted with all permit restrictions being maintained. The monthly playground inspections were reviewed, one has not been complete for June or July 2024. The incident logs were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The EMC plan was observed posted. The current menu was posted in the lobby, reviewed and found meeting compliance. The following violations were observed during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in Space 12. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. Space 9 i observed the toy pretend sink with visible dirt residue. Many storage shelves in classrooms had tape residue left on the shelves. .2822(a)(1-4) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Walls in Space 8 were observed with drywall exposed. One door in the hallway leading to the playground was observed rusted at the base. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The stationary equipment for 2-5 year olds was observed with one of the base poles cracked leaving sharp edges. Gate latch on the preschool playground does not function properly and cannot latch. .0601(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. During the walkthrough a mop bucket with cleaning solution, bathroom cleaner and window cleaner was observed in the hallway outside the hall bathrooms. The staff cleaning had stepped away and left the items unattended and did not lock them back up when not in use. The locked cabinet storing aerosol cleaning supplies was not locked in Space 8. .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. One sunscreen in Space 7 and one diaper cream in Space 12 did not have written permission to administer on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. One sunscreen permission in Space 7 expired 6/24. One sunscreen and one diaper cream permission in Space 8 expired 5/24. Two sunscreen permissions in Space 8 expired 5/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A monthly playground inspection for the month of June and July were not documented. .0605(q) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. Two staff do not have proof on file they reviewed the current EMC plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. (9) nine staff, who have been employed more than a year have not had an annual review or staff development plan updated annually. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. Two staff do not have proof of file they received a review of the current EPR plan. .0607(f) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. One staff hired 6-3-24 did not have a signed shaken baby syndrome policy on file. .0608(d)(1-4) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. I observed many staff medical information in the main staff file and not separated from the main staff file. .0701(d) Compliance Letter: Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Bianca Covington, administrator, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the consultant, andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before August 21, 2024. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Program monitoring: If you don't already, I encourage you have opening, closing checklist for admin and teacher staff to ensure each day the classrooms and playgrounds are ready for care. The list could have line items such as current activity plan posted, walls in good repair, material clean and in good repair, outlets covered, medications stored properly, cleaning supplies stored properly, etc. These checks will help ensure you maintain compliance with many different child care requirements. Staff Files: You stated that you had help from a co-director and she stated medical information did not need to be stored separate. I reviewed, with you, 10A NCAC 09. 0701(d)Staff medical statements, proof of a tuberculosis test or screening, and completed health questionnaires shall be included in the staff member's medical file, which must be maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file in the center. I encourage you utilize the staff file checklist and the staff and training worksheets to help maintain accurate staff files. Medications: I encourage all medications be checked in my admin to ensure you have all accurate information prior to allowing medication remain on site. Then each month have staff check medications in their classrooms to ensure permission forms are valid and match the child's medication on site. Currently you don't have any medications required for chronic conditions so medical action plans aren't required at this time. I encourage you review the medication requirements found in .0803 of the child care rules and contact me if you have any questions. Other: Record retention: We discussed record retention, I reminded you that there are charts to assist you in 10A NCAC 09 .2318 of the child care requirements. Administrative Action: Stipulations 1 will be monitored at each visit and will be on-going. It is the expectation the facility maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. Today, violations were observed, therefore stipulation #1 is not maintained. Stipulation #2 – You contacted Jennifer Kappas, CCRI Specialist, on May 21, 2024, to schedule the A+ Supervision training. The training has been scheduled for July 19, 2024. You submitted the required training information to me on 7/22/24, the information is on file and available for review. Stipulation #3 - The supervision plan was submitted to me on 8/2/24. During today’s visit I discussed the written plan submitted, which is not approved at this time. The following bullets were not addressed in the written plan and must be included in the written plan in order to be approved. When children are arriving and departing from the facility each day When children are toileting When more than one group of children is combined When children are preparing for and eating meals When children are transitioned from one area to another When children are transitioned from one caregiver to another When staff members need to complete tasks outside the classroom Consequences of staff members’ non-compliance with policies and procedures We also discussed a new deadline for submitted the updated plan is August 21,2024. Stipulation #4 Once the written plan in Stipulation #3 has been approved you will schedule a staff meeting within 2 weeks of the plans approval and review it with all staff. And within 3 days of the meeting, you will submit the required information to me, which is outlined in the stipulation of the action. If you have any questions please contact me (704)594-0039 or andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/7/2024 Number Present: 68 Completed Date: 8/7/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 305 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the annual compliance visit. The 18 month compliance history prior today’s visit was 81%. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Bianca Covington, Director. I explained the purpose of today’s visit. You were able to accompany me on today’s walkthrough. We observed in each classroom and monitoring each outdoor play environment. You have a fenced in pool area that is not in use, the pool has been drained and covered and you do not use that fenced in area of the outdoor play environment. During the walkthrough, I observed large group time, free choice center play, hand washing, diaper changes, outdoor play, lunch and naptime. Supervision and staff/child ratios were observed throughout today’s visit. Children upset were tended to immediately and nurturing tones were heard as staff spoke with children in care. Each classroom, except space 12, had a current activity plan posted. All interest centers in each classroom had a variety of material accessible for play. I observed glue residue on shelves in many of the classrooms, that need to be cleaned. One door in the hallway leading to the outdoor environment was observed rusted at the base. Walls in Space 8 were observed with chipped paint exposing drywall and a few small holes in the wall where something was hung. Medications were reviewed, there were a few on site with expired written permission and two diaper creams without written permission. Infant safe sleep checks and current feeding schedules were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Bottles were observed labeled and dated accurately. Water bottles need to be stored individually so they do not touch one another when stored. A sample of children’s files were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Staff files were reviewed, you provided an updated staff and training worksheet I used to review staff files. Annual staff development plans and annual reviews have not been completed for staff who have been employed for a year or more. Two staff have not had an annual review of the EPR or EMC plan, one staff does not have proof of obtaining recognizing and responding to suspicions of maltreatment within the first 90 days of hire. One staff did not have a signed shaken baby syndrome policy on file and was able to review and sign it during the visit. I reviewed program records. The last fire inspection was conducted on 8-5-24; you provided a copy today. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 7-24-24. The emergency drill log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. The license was observed posted with all permit restrictions being maintained. The monthly playground inspections were reviewed, one has not been complete for June or July 2024. The incident logs were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The EMC plan was observed posted. The current menu was posted in the lobby, reviewed and found meeting compliance. The following violations were observed during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in Space 12. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. Space 9 i observed the toy pretend sink with visible dirt residue. Many storage shelves in classrooms had tape residue left on the shelves. .2822(a)(1-4) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Walls in Space 8 were observed with drywall exposed. One door in the hallway leading to the playground was observed rusted at the base. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The stationary equipment for 2-5 year olds was observed with one of the base poles cracked leaving sharp edges. Gate latch on the preschool playground does not function properly and cannot latch. .0601(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. During the walkthrough a mop bucket with cleaning solution, bathroom cleaner and window cleaner was observed in the hallway outside the hall bathrooms. The staff cleaning had stepped away and left the items unattended and did not lock them back up when not in use. The locked cabinet storing aerosol cleaning supplies was not locked in Space 8. .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. One sunscreen in Space 7 and one diaper cream in Space 12 did not have written permission to administer on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. One sunscreen permission in Space 7 expired 6/24. One sunscreen and one diaper cream permission in Space 8 expired 5/24. Two sunscreen permissions in Space 8 expired 5/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A monthly playground inspection for the month of June and July were not documented. .0605(q) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. Two staff do not have proof on file they reviewed the current EMC plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. (9) nine staff, who have been employed more than a year have not had an annual review or staff development plan updated annually. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. Two staff do not have proof of file they received a review of the current EPR plan. .0607(f) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. One staff hired 6-3-24 did not have a signed shaken baby syndrome policy on file. .0608(d)(1-4) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. I observed many staff medical information in the main staff file and not separated from the main staff file. .0701(d) Compliance Letter: Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Bianca Covington, administrator, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the consultant, andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before August 21, 2024. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Program monitoring: If you don't already, I encourage you have opening, closing checklist for admin and teacher staff to ensure each day the classrooms and playgrounds are ready for care. The list could have line items such as current activity plan posted, walls in good repair, material clean and in good repair, outlets covered, medications stored properly, cleaning supplies stored properly, etc. These checks will help ensure you maintain compliance with many different child care requirements. Staff Files: You stated that you had help from a co-director and she stated medical information did not need to be stored separate. I reviewed, with you, 10A NCAC 09. 0701(d)Staff medical statements, proof of a tuberculosis test or screening, and completed health questionnaires shall be included in the staff member's medical file, which must be maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file in the center. I encourage you utilize the staff file checklist and the staff and training worksheets to help maintain accurate staff files. Medications: I encourage all medications be checked in my admin to ensure you have all accurate information prior to allowing medication remain on site. Then each month have staff check medications in their classrooms to ensure permission forms are valid and match the child's medication on site. Currently you don't have any medications required for chronic conditions so medical action plans aren't required at this time. I encourage you review the medication requirements found in .0803 of the child care rules and contact me if you have any questions. Other: Record retention: We discussed record retention, I reminded you that there are charts to assist you in 10A NCAC 09 .2318 of the child care requirements. Administrative Action: Stipulations 1 will be monitored at each visit and will be on-going. It is the expectation the facility maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. Today, violations were observed, therefore stipulation #1 is not maintained. Stipulation #2 – You contacted Jennifer Kappas, CCRI Specialist, on May 21, 2024, to schedule the A+ Supervision training. The training has been scheduled for July 19, 2024. You submitted the required training information to me on 7/22/24, the information is on file and available for review. Stipulation #3 - The supervision plan was submitted to me on 8/2/24. During today’s visit I discussed the written plan submitted, which is not approved at this time. The following bullets were not addressed in the written plan and must be included in the written plan in order to be approved. When children are arriving and departing from the facility each day When children are toileting When more than one group of children is combined When children are preparing for and eating meals When children are transitioned from one area to another When children are transitioned from one caregiver to another When staff members need to complete tasks outside the classroom Consequences of staff members’ non-compliance with policies and procedures We also discussed a new deadline for submitted the updated plan is August 21,2024. Stipulation #4 Once the written plan in Stipulation #3 has been approved you will schedule a staff meeting within 2 weeks of the plans approval and review it with all staff. And within 3 days of the meeting, you will submit the required information to me, which is outlined in the stipulation of the action. If you have any questions please contact me (704)594-0039 or andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .2318 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/7/2024 Number Present: 68 Completed Date: 8/7/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 305 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the annual compliance visit. The 18 month compliance history prior today’s visit was 81%. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Bianca Covington, Director. I explained the purpose of today’s visit. You were able to accompany me on today’s walkthrough. We observed in each classroom and monitoring each outdoor play environment. You have a fenced in pool area that is not in use, the pool has been drained and covered and you do not use that fenced in area of the outdoor play environment. During the walkthrough, I observed large group time, free choice center play, hand washing, diaper changes, outdoor play, lunch and naptime. Supervision and staff/child ratios were observed throughout today’s visit. Children upset were tended to immediately and nurturing tones were heard as staff spoke with children in care. Each classroom, except space 12, had a current activity plan posted. All interest centers in each classroom had a variety of material accessible for play. I observed glue residue on shelves in many of the classrooms, that need to be cleaned. One door in the hallway leading to the outdoor environment was observed rusted at the base. Walls in Space 8 were observed with chipped paint exposing drywall and a few small holes in the wall where something was hung. Medications were reviewed, there were a few on site with expired written permission and two diaper creams without written permission. Infant safe sleep checks and current feeding schedules were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Bottles were observed labeled and dated accurately. Water bottles need to be stored individually so they do not touch one another when stored. A sample of children’s files were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Staff files were reviewed, you provided an updated staff and training worksheet I used to review staff files. Annual staff development plans and annual reviews have not been completed for staff who have been employed for a year or more. Two staff have not had an annual review of the EPR or EMC plan, one staff does not have proof of obtaining recognizing and responding to suspicions of maltreatment within the first 90 days of hire. One staff did not have a signed shaken baby syndrome policy on file and was able to review and sign it during the visit. I reviewed program records. The last fire inspection was conducted on 8-5-24; you provided a copy today. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 7-24-24. The emergency drill log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. The license was observed posted with all permit restrictions being maintained. The monthly playground inspections were reviewed, one has not been complete for June or July 2024. The incident logs were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The EMC plan was observed posted. The current menu was posted in the lobby, reviewed and found meeting compliance. The following violations were observed during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in Space 12. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. Space 9 i observed the toy pretend sink with visible dirt residue. Many storage shelves in classrooms had tape residue left on the shelves. .2822(a)(1-4) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Walls in Space 8 were observed with drywall exposed. One door in the hallway leading to the playground was observed rusted at the base. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The stationary equipment for 2-5 year olds was observed with one of the base poles cracked leaving sharp edges. Gate latch on the preschool playground does not function properly and cannot latch. .0601(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. During the walkthrough a mop bucket with cleaning solution, bathroom cleaner and window cleaner was observed in the hallway outside the hall bathrooms. The staff cleaning had stepped away and left the items unattended and did not lock them back up when not in use. The locked cabinet storing aerosol cleaning supplies was not locked in Space 8. .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. One sunscreen in Space 7 and one diaper cream in Space 12 did not have written permission to administer on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. One sunscreen permission in Space 7 expired 6/24. One sunscreen and one diaper cream permission in Space 8 expired 5/24. Two sunscreen permissions in Space 8 expired 5/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A monthly playground inspection for the month of June and July were not documented. .0605(q) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. Two staff do not have proof on file they reviewed the current EMC plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. (9) nine staff, who have been employed more than a year have not had an annual review or staff development plan updated annually. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. Two staff do not have proof of file they received a review of the current EPR plan. .0607(f) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. One staff hired 6-3-24 did not have a signed shaken baby syndrome policy on file. .0608(d)(1-4) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. I observed many staff medical information in the main staff file and not separated from the main staff file. .0701(d) Compliance Letter: Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Bianca Covington, administrator, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the consultant, andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before August 21, 2024. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Program monitoring: If you don't already, I encourage you have opening, closing checklist for admin and teacher staff to ensure each day the classrooms and playgrounds are ready for care. The list could have line items such as current activity plan posted, walls in good repair, material clean and in good repair, outlets covered, medications stored properly, cleaning supplies stored properly, etc. These checks will help ensure you maintain compliance with many different child care requirements. Staff Files: You stated that you had help from a co-director and she stated medical information did not need to be stored separate. I reviewed, with you, 10A NCAC 09. 0701(d)Staff medical statements, proof of a tuberculosis test or screening, and completed health questionnaires shall be included in the staff member's medical file, which must be maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file in the center. I encourage you utilize the staff file checklist and the staff and training worksheets to help maintain accurate staff files. Medications: I encourage all medications be checked in my admin to ensure you have all accurate information prior to allowing medication remain on site. Then each month have staff check medications in their classrooms to ensure permission forms are valid and match the child's medication on site. Currently you don't have any medications required for chronic conditions so medical action plans aren't required at this time. I encourage you review the medication requirements found in .0803 of the child care rules and contact me if you have any questions. Other: Record retention: We discussed record retention, I reminded you that there are charts to assist you in 10A NCAC 09 .2318 of the child care requirements. Administrative Action: Stipulations 1 will be monitored at each visit and will be on-going. It is the expectation the facility maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. Today, violations were observed, therefore stipulation #1 is not maintained. Stipulation #2 – You contacted Jennifer Kappas, CCRI Specialist, on May 21, 2024, to schedule the A+ Supervision training. The training has been scheduled for July 19, 2024. You submitted the required training information to me on 7/22/24, the information is on file and available for review. Stipulation #3 - The supervision plan was submitted to me on 8/2/24. During today’s visit I discussed the written plan submitted, which is not approved at this time. The following bullets were not addressed in the written plan and must be included in the written plan in order to be approved. When children are arriving and departing from the facility each day When children are toileting When more than one group of children is combined When children are preparing for and eating meals When children are transitioned from one area to another When children are transitioned from one caregiver to another When staff members need to complete tasks outside the classroom Consequences of staff members’ non-compliance with policies and procedures We also discussed a new deadline for submitted the updated plan is August 21,2024. Stipulation #4 Once the written plan in Stipulation #3 has been approved you will schedule a staff meeting within 2 weeks of the plans approval and review it with all staff. And within 3 days of the meeting, you will submit the required information to me, which is outlined in the stipulation of the action. If you have any questions please contact me (704)594-0039 or andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09. 0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/7/2024 Number Present: 68 Completed Date: 8/7/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 305 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the annual compliance visit. The 18 month compliance history prior today’s visit was 81%. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Bianca Covington, Director. I explained the purpose of today’s visit. You were able to accompany me on today’s walkthrough. We observed in each classroom and monitoring each outdoor play environment. You have a fenced in pool area that is not in use, the pool has been drained and covered and you do not use that fenced in area of the outdoor play environment. During the walkthrough, I observed large group time, free choice center play, hand washing, diaper changes, outdoor play, lunch and naptime. Supervision and staff/child ratios were observed throughout today’s visit. Children upset were tended to immediately and nurturing tones were heard as staff spoke with children in care. Each classroom, except space 12, had a current activity plan posted. All interest centers in each classroom had a variety of material accessible for play. I observed glue residue on shelves in many of the classrooms, that need to be cleaned. One door in the hallway leading to the outdoor environment was observed rusted at the base. Walls in Space 8 were observed with chipped paint exposing drywall and a few small holes in the wall where something was hung. Medications were reviewed, there were a few on site with expired written permission and two diaper creams without written permission. Infant safe sleep checks and current feeding schedules were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Bottles were observed labeled and dated accurately. Water bottles need to be stored individually so they do not touch one another when stored. A sample of children’s files were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Staff files were reviewed, you provided an updated staff and training worksheet I used to review staff files. Annual staff development plans and annual reviews have not been completed for staff who have been employed for a year or more. Two staff have not had an annual review of the EPR or EMC plan, one staff does not have proof of obtaining recognizing and responding to suspicions of maltreatment within the first 90 days of hire. One staff did not have a signed shaken baby syndrome policy on file and was able to review and sign it during the visit. I reviewed program records. The last fire inspection was conducted on 8-5-24; you provided a copy today. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 7-24-24. The emergency drill log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. The license was observed posted with all permit restrictions being maintained. The monthly playground inspections were reviewed, one has not been complete for June or July 2024. The incident logs were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The EMC plan was observed posted. The current menu was posted in the lobby, reviewed and found meeting compliance. The following violations were observed during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in Space 12. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. Space 9 i observed the toy pretend sink with visible dirt residue. Many storage shelves in classrooms had tape residue left on the shelves. .2822(a)(1-4) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Walls in Space 8 were observed with drywall exposed. One door in the hallway leading to the playground was observed rusted at the base. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The stationary equipment for 2-5 year olds was observed with one of the base poles cracked leaving sharp edges. Gate latch on the preschool playground does not function properly and cannot latch. .0601(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. During the walkthrough a mop bucket with cleaning solution, bathroom cleaner and window cleaner was observed in the hallway outside the hall bathrooms. The staff cleaning had stepped away and left the items unattended and did not lock them back up when not in use. The locked cabinet storing aerosol cleaning supplies was not locked in Space 8. .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. One sunscreen in Space 7 and one diaper cream in Space 12 did not have written permission to administer on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. One sunscreen permission in Space 7 expired 6/24. One sunscreen and one diaper cream permission in Space 8 expired 5/24. Two sunscreen permissions in Space 8 expired 5/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A monthly playground inspection for the month of June and July were not documented. .0605(q) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. Two staff do not have proof on file they reviewed the current EMC plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. (9) nine staff, who have been employed more than a year have not had an annual review or staff development plan updated annually. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. Two staff do not have proof of file they received a review of the current EPR plan. .0607(f) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. One staff hired 6-3-24 did not have a signed shaken baby syndrome policy on file. .0608(d)(1-4) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. I observed many staff medical information in the main staff file and not separated from the main staff file. .0701(d) Compliance Letter: Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Bianca Covington, administrator, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the consultant, andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before August 21, 2024. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Program monitoring: If you don't already, I encourage you have opening, closing checklist for admin and teacher staff to ensure each day the classrooms and playgrounds are ready for care. The list could have line items such as current activity plan posted, walls in good repair, material clean and in good repair, outlets covered, medications stored properly, cleaning supplies stored properly, etc. These checks will help ensure you maintain compliance with many different child care requirements. Staff Files: You stated that you had help from a co-director and she stated medical information did not need to be stored separate. I reviewed, with you, 10A NCAC 09. 0701(d)Staff medical statements, proof of a tuberculosis test or screening, and completed health questionnaires shall be included in the staff member's medical file, which must be maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file in the center. I encourage you utilize the staff file checklist and the staff and training worksheets to help maintain accurate staff files. Medications: I encourage all medications be checked in my admin to ensure you have all accurate information prior to allowing medication remain on site. Then each month have staff check medications in their classrooms to ensure permission forms are valid and match the child's medication on site. Currently you don't have any medications required for chronic conditions so medical action plans aren't required at this time. I encourage you review the medication requirements found in .0803 of the child care rules and contact me if you have any questions. Other: Record retention: We discussed record retention, I reminded you that there are charts to assist you in 10A NCAC 09 .2318 of the child care requirements. Administrative Action: Stipulations 1 will be monitored at each visit and will be on-going. It is the expectation the facility maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. Today, violations were observed, therefore stipulation #1 is not maintained. Stipulation #2 – You contacted Jennifer Kappas, CCRI Specialist, on May 21, 2024, to schedule the A+ Supervision training. The training has been scheduled for July 19, 2024. You submitted the required training information to me on 7/22/24, the information is on file and available for review. Stipulation #3 - The supervision plan was submitted to me on 8/2/24. During today’s visit I discussed the written plan submitted, which is not approved at this time. The following bullets were not addressed in the written plan and must be included in the written plan in order to be approved. When children are arriving and departing from the facility each day When children are toileting When more than one group of children is combined When children are preparing for and eating meals When children are transitioned from one area to another When children are transitioned from one caregiver to another When staff members need to complete tasks outside the classroom Consequences of staff members’ non-compliance with policies and procedures We also discussed a new deadline for submitted the updated plan is August 21,2024. Stipulation #4 Once the written plan in Stipulation #3 has been approved you will schedule a staff meeting within 2 weeks of the plans approval and review it with all staff. And within 3 days of the meeting, you will submit the required information to me, which is outlined in the stipulation of the action. If you have any questions please contact me (704)594-0039 or andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/7/2024 Number Present: 68 Completed Date: 8/7/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 305 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 02:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the annual compliance visit. The 18 month compliance history prior today’s visit was 81%. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Bianca Covington, Director. I explained the purpose of today’s visit. You were able to accompany me on today’s walkthrough. We observed in each classroom and monitoring each outdoor play environment. You have a fenced in pool area that is not in use, the pool has been drained and covered and you do not use that fenced in area of the outdoor play environment. During the walkthrough, I observed large group time, free choice center play, hand washing, diaper changes, outdoor play, lunch and naptime. Supervision and staff/child ratios were observed throughout today’s visit. Children upset were tended to immediately and nurturing tones were heard as staff spoke with children in care. Each classroom, except space 12, had a current activity plan posted. All interest centers in each classroom had a variety of material accessible for play. I observed glue residue on shelves in many of the classrooms, that need to be cleaned. One door in the hallway leading to the outdoor environment was observed rusted at the base. Walls in Space 8 were observed with chipped paint exposing drywall and a few small holes in the wall where something was hung. Medications were reviewed, there were a few on site with expired written permission and two diaper creams without written permission. Infant safe sleep checks and current feeding schedules were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Bottles were observed labeled and dated accurately. Water bottles need to be stored individually so they do not touch one another when stored. A sample of children’s files were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Staff files were reviewed, you provided an updated staff and training worksheet I used to review staff files. Annual staff development plans and annual reviews have not been completed for staff who have been employed for a year or more. Two staff have not had an annual review of the EPR or EMC plan, one staff does not have proof of obtaining recognizing and responding to suspicions of maltreatment within the first 90 days of hire. One staff did not have a signed shaken baby syndrome policy on file and was able to review and sign it during the visit. I reviewed program records. The last fire inspection was conducted on 8-5-24; you provided a copy today. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 7-24-24. The emergency drill log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. The license was observed posted with all permit restrictions being maintained. The monthly playground inspections were reviewed, one has not been complete for June or July 2024. The incident logs were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The EMC plan was observed posted. The current menu was posted in the lobby, reviewed and found meeting compliance. The following violations were observed during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in Space 12. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. Space 9 i observed the toy pretend sink with visible dirt residue. Many storage shelves in classrooms had tape residue left on the shelves. .2822(a)(1-4) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Walls in Space 8 were observed with drywall exposed. One door in the hallway leading to the playground was observed rusted at the base. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The stationary equipment for 2-5 year olds was observed with one of the base poles cracked leaving sharp edges. Gate latch on the preschool playground does not function properly and cannot latch. .0601(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. During the walkthrough a mop bucket with cleaning solution, bathroom cleaner and window cleaner was observed in the hallway outside the hall bathrooms. The staff cleaning had stepped away and left the items unattended and did not lock them back up when not in use. The locked cabinet storing aerosol cleaning supplies was not locked in Space 8. .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. One sunscreen in Space 7 and one diaper cream in Space 12 did not have written permission to administer on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & b) 843 A drug or medicine was administered after its expiration date. One sunscreen permission in Space 7 expired 6/24. One sunscreen and one diaper cream permission in Space 8 expired 5/24. Two sunscreen permissions in Space 8 expired 5/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(d) 859 Monthly playground inspections were not completed and/or they were not completed by an individual trained in playground safety requirements. A monthly playground inspection for the month of June and July were not documented. .0605(q) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. Two staff do not have proof on file they reviewed the current EMC plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. (9) nine staff, who have been employed more than a year have not had an annual review or staff development plan updated annually. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. Two staff do not have proof of file they received a review of the current EPR plan. .0607(f) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. One staff hired 6-3-24 did not have a signed shaken baby syndrome policy on file. .0608(d)(1-4) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. I observed many staff medical information in the main staff file and not separated from the main staff file. .0701(d) Compliance Letter: Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Bianca Covington, administrator, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the consultant, andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before August 21, 2024. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Program monitoring: If you don't already, I encourage you have opening, closing checklist for admin and teacher staff to ensure each day the classrooms and playgrounds are ready for care. The list could have line items such as current activity plan posted, walls in good repair, material clean and in good repair, outlets covered, medications stored properly, cleaning supplies stored properly, etc. These checks will help ensure you maintain compliance with many different child care requirements. Staff Files: You stated that you had help from a co-director and she stated medical information did not need to be stored separate. I reviewed, with you, 10A NCAC 09. 0701(d)Staff medical statements, proof of a tuberculosis test or screening, and completed health questionnaires shall be included in the staff member's medical file, which must be maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file in the center. I encourage you utilize the staff file checklist and the staff and training worksheets to help maintain accurate staff files. Medications: I encourage all medications be checked in my admin to ensure you have all accurate information prior to allowing medication remain on site. Then each month have staff check medications in their classrooms to ensure permission forms are valid and match the child's medication on site. Currently you don't have any medications required for chronic conditions so medical action plans aren't required at this time. I encourage you review the medication requirements found in .0803 of the child care rules and contact me if you have any questions. Other: Record retention: We discussed record retention, I reminded you that there are charts to assist you in 10A NCAC 09 .2318 of the child care requirements. Administrative Action: Stipulations 1 will be monitored at each visit and will be on-going. It is the expectation the facility maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. Today, violations were observed, therefore stipulation #1 is not maintained. Stipulation #2 – You contacted Jennifer Kappas, CCRI Specialist, on May 21, 2024, to schedule the A+ Supervision training. The training has been scheduled for July 19, 2024. You submitted the required training information to me on 7/22/24, the information is on file and available for review. Stipulation #3 - The supervision plan was submitted to me on 8/2/24. During today’s visit I discussed the written plan submitted, which is not approved at this time. The following bullets were not addressed in the written plan and must be included in the written plan in order to be approved. When children are arriving and departing from the facility each day When children are toileting When more than one group of children is combined When children are preparing for and eating meals When children are transitioned from one area to another When children are transitioned from one caregiver to another When staff members need to complete tasks outside the classroom Consequences of staff members’ non-compliance with policies and procedures We also discussed a new deadline for submitted the updated plan is August 21,2024. Stipulation #4 Once the written plan in Stipulation #3 has been approved you will schedule a staff meeting within 2 weeks of the plans approval and review it with all staff. And within 3 days of the meeting, you will submit the required information to me, which is outlined in the stipulation of the action. If you have any questions please contact me (704)594-0039 or andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0802 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/26/2024 Number Present: 63 Completed Date: 6/26/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the administrative action follow up visit. The 18 month compliance history prior to today's visit was 86%. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Bianca Covington, Interim Director. I explained the purpose of today's visit. We sat in the office and discussed how things have been going. I asked if any new staff have started since my last visit, and you stated no. I asked if you had updated the staff and training worksheets and you had not. So we used old copies of the staff and training worksheets against staff files today. I reviewed current DCDEE qualifying letters, CPR/FA certification, Health and Safety Trainings, Other Specialized Trainings and anything I observed expired on the document. We resigned the documents at the top of the forms. I reviewed program records. The last fire inspection was conducted on 8-31-23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 1-18-24. The emergency drill log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. The license was observed posted with all permit restrictions being maintained. The monthly playground inspections and incident logs were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The EMC plan was observed posted, however the last director is still listed and is not current. You conducted a fire drill during my visit today, all children and staff exited the building quickly and moved to their designated safe location and were accounted for during the drill. You logged the drill on the emergency drill log after the drill was complete. As the drill was being conducted I observed you walking around the building checking each classroom to ensure everyone exited the building safely. A walkthrough was conducted, during the walkthrough two classrooms did not have a current activity plan posted. Supervision and staff/child ratios were observed being maintained. I observed staff contact you for transitions. They call you on the walkie talkies and you walk to the hallways and observe them do name to face checks and stay with the group as the move from their classroom to their next destination. During the visit I observed groups in their classroom during free play, and outdoor time. I also observed lunch time today. Lunch followed the current menu posted. Currently you do not have any medication to administer on site. I did observe on diaper change, and all steps were observed being followed. Administrative Action: Stipulations 1 will be monitored at each visit and will be on-going. It is the expectation the facility maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. Today, violations were observed, therefore stipulation #1 is not maintained. Stipulation #2 – You contacted Jennifer Kappas, CCRI Specialist, on May 21, 2024, to schedule the A+ Supervision training. The training has been scheduled for July 19, 2024. All staff will be present for the scheduled training. Within three days of the training, you will submit the attendance roster with printed names and signatures, the date, time and length of the training to me. Stipulation #3 Once A+ Supervision training has been completed; you will develop a written plan that describes in detail steps the facility will take to ensure adequate supervision. Each bullet outlined in the stipulation must be included in your plan. You will submit the plan to me within 2 weeks of completing A+ Supervision. I will review the plan, and I will notify you of its approval or if additional information is required to be approved. You will submit the plan to me by August 2, 2024. Stipulation #4 Once the written plan in Stipulation #3 has been approved you will schedule a staff meeting within 2 weeks of the plans approval and review it with all staff. And within 3 days of the meeting, you will submit the required information to me, which is outlined in the stipulation of the action. The following violations were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in Space 7 or Space 9. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. In Space 9, I observed peeling paint by the door seam as I was leaving the classroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 832 There was no written emergency medical care (EMC) plan. The EMC plan posted, list staff that are no longer employed at the facility. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. One staff did not have a current Health questionnaire on file, it was completed last 1/23/23. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff has not update her emergency information since 1/23/23. .0701(a) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One staff has not completed health and safety trainings and has been employed more than one year; she has been employed since 6-12-23. .1102(a) Compliance Letter: Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Bianca Covington, Director, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the consultant, andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before July 10, 2024. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Staff Files: I highly encourage you to keep the staff and training worksheets updated on your computer. The spreadsheet can be found on the DCDEE website, under provide document. It is an excel spreadsheet, you can enter the information for each staff. I encourage you to color code the document to notify you when staff's have items that is expiring or is needed. We discussed utilizing the staff file checklist that is also on the DCDEE website, under provider documents. That checklist tells also tells you when items are required to be on file. The Health and Safety Training Logs and On-going Training Logs are also found on the DCDEE websites. I also encourage you to share these forms with staff, as they are required to maintain these as part of their professional development. During staff meetings going over the requirements found in Section 10A NCAC 09 .1100. Management: I encourage you to have a procedure to ensure each classroom has a current activity plan posted each week. We discussed having a daily or weekly checklist that you use, on the checklist it may have outlets covered, activity plan posted and are current, menu posted and current, materials accessible, in good repair and sufficient, walls in good repair, ceilings in good repair, etc. Other: I share the Challenging Behaviors Helpline Brochure from CCRI for you and your staff to utilize. If you have any questions please contact me Andrea Anderson 12233 Royal Castle Ct Charlotte, NC, 28277 andrea.anderson.dhhs.nc.gov (704)594-0039 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 .1100 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/26/2024 Number Present: 63 Completed Date: 6/26/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the administrative action follow up visit. The 18 month compliance history prior to today's visit was 86%. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Bianca Covington, Interim Director. I explained the purpose of today's visit. We sat in the office and discussed how things have been going. I asked if any new staff have started since my last visit, and you stated no. I asked if you had updated the staff and training worksheets and you had not. So we used old copies of the staff and training worksheets against staff files today. I reviewed current DCDEE qualifying letters, CPR/FA certification, Health and Safety Trainings, Other Specialized Trainings and anything I observed expired on the document. We resigned the documents at the top of the forms. I reviewed program records. The last fire inspection was conducted on 8-31-23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 1-18-24. The emergency drill log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. The license was observed posted with all permit restrictions being maintained. The monthly playground inspections and incident logs were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The EMC plan was observed posted, however the last director is still listed and is not current. You conducted a fire drill during my visit today, all children and staff exited the building quickly and moved to their designated safe location and were accounted for during the drill. You logged the drill on the emergency drill log after the drill was complete. As the drill was being conducted I observed you walking around the building checking each classroom to ensure everyone exited the building safely. A walkthrough was conducted, during the walkthrough two classrooms did not have a current activity plan posted. Supervision and staff/child ratios were observed being maintained. I observed staff contact you for transitions. They call you on the walkie talkies and you walk to the hallways and observe them do name to face checks and stay with the group as the move from their classroom to their next destination. During the visit I observed groups in their classroom during free play, and outdoor time. I also observed lunch time today. Lunch followed the current menu posted. Currently you do not have any medication to administer on site. I did observe on diaper change, and all steps were observed being followed. Administrative Action: Stipulations 1 will be monitored at each visit and will be on-going. It is the expectation the facility maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. Today, violations were observed, therefore stipulation #1 is not maintained. Stipulation #2 – You contacted Jennifer Kappas, CCRI Specialist, on May 21, 2024, to schedule the A+ Supervision training. The training has been scheduled for July 19, 2024. All staff will be present for the scheduled training. Within three days of the training, you will submit the attendance roster with printed names and signatures, the date, time and length of the training to me. Stipulation #3 Once A+ Supervision training has been completed; you will develop a written plan that describes in detail steps the facility will take to ensure adequate supervision. Each bullet outlined in the stipulation must be included in your plan. You will submit the plan to me within 2 weeks of completing A+ Supervision. I will review the plan, and I will notify you of its approval or if additional information is required to be approved. You will submit the plan to me by August 2, 2024. Stipulation #4 Once the written plan in Stipulation #3 has been approved you will schedule a staff meeting within 2 weeks of the plans approval and review it with all staff. And within 3 days of the meeting, you will submit the required information to me, which is outlined in the stipulation of the action. The following violations were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in Space 7 or Space 9. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. In Space 9, I observed peeling paint by the door seam as I was leaving the classroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 832 There was no written emergency medical care (EMC) plan. The EMC plan posted, list staff that are no longer employed at the facility. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. One staff did not have a current Health questionnaire on file, it was completed last 1/23/23. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff has not update her emergency information since 1/23/23. .0701(a) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One staff has not completed health and safety trainings and has been employed more than one year; she has been employed since 6-12-23. .1102(a) Compliance Letter: Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Bianca Covington, Director, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the consultant, andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before July 10, 2024. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Staff Files: I highly encourage you to keep the staff and training worksheets updated on your computer. The spreadsheet can be found on the DCDEE website, under provide document. It is an excel spreadsheet, you can enter the information for each staff. I encourage you to color code the document to notify you when staff's have items that is expiring or is needed. We discussed utilizing the staff file checklist that is also on the DCDEE website, under provider documents. That checklist tells also tells you when items are required to be on file. The Health and Safety Training Logs and On-going Training Logs are also found on the DCDEE websites. I also encourage you to share these forms with staff, as they are required to maintain these as part of their professional development. During staff meetings going over the requirements found in Section 10A NCAC 09 .1100. Management: I encourage you to have a procedure to ensure each classroom has a current activity plan posted each week. We discussed having a daily or weekly checklist that you use, on the checklist it may have outlets covered, activity plan posted and are current, menu posted and current, materials accessible, in good repair and sufficient, walls in good repair, ceilings in good repair, etc. Other: I share the Challenging Behaviors Helpline Brochure from CCRI for you and your staff to utilize. If you have any questions please contact me Andrea Anderson 12233 Royal Castle Ct Charlotte, NC, 28277 andrea.anderson.dhhs.nc.gov (704)594-0039 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/26/2024 Number Present: 63 Completed Date: 6/26/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the administrative action follow up visit. The 18 month compliance history prior to today's visit was 86%. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Bianca Covington, Interim Director. I explained the purpose of today's visit. We sat in the office and discussed how things have been going. I asked if any new staff have started since my last visit, and you stated no. I asked if you had updated the staff and training worksheets and you had not. So we used old copies of the staff and training worksheets against staff files today. I reviewed current DCDEE qualifying letters, CPR/FA certification, Health and Safety Trainings, Other Specialized Trainings and anything I observed expired on the document. We resigned the documents at the top of the forms. I reviewed program records. The last fire inspection was conducted on 8-31-23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 1-18-24. The emergency drill log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. The license was observed posted with all permit restrictions being maintained. The monthly playground inspections and incident logs were reviewed and found meeting compliance. The EMC plan was observed posted, however the last director is still listed and is not current. You conducted a fire drill during my visit today, all children and staff exited the building quickly and moved to their designated safe location and were accounted for during the drill. You logged the drill on the emergency drill log after the drill was complete. As the drill was being conducted I observed you walking around the building checking each classroom to ensure everyone exited the building safely. A walkthrough was conducted, during the walkthrough two classrooms did not have a current activity plan posted. Supervision and staff/child ratios were observed being maintained. I observed staff contact you for transitions. They call you on the walkie talkies and you walk to the hallways and observe them do name to face checks and stay with the group as the move from their classroom to their next destination. During the visit I observed groups in their classroom during free play, and outdoor time. I also observed lunch time today. Lunch followed the current menu posted. Currently you do not have any medication to administer on site. I did observe on diaper change, and all steps were observed being followed. Administrative Action: Stipulations 1 will be monitored at each visit and will be on-going. It is the expectation the facility maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. Today, violations were observed, therefore stipulation #1 is not maintained. Stipulation #2 – You contacted Jennifer Kappas, CCRI Specialist, on May 21, 2024, to schedule the A+ Supervision training. The training has been scheduled for July 19, 2024. All staff will be present for the scheduled training. Within three days of the training, you will submit the attendance roster with printed names and signatures, the date, time and length of the training to me. Stipulation #3 Once A+ Supervision training has been completed; you will develop a written plan that describes in detail steps the facility will take to ensure adequate supervision. Each bullet outlined in the stipulation must be included in your plan. You will submit the plan to me within 2 weeks of completing A+ Supervision. I will review the plan, and I will notify you of its approval or if additional information is required to be approved. You will submit the plan to me by August 2, 2024. Stipulation #4 Once the written plan in Stipulation #3 has been approved you will schedule a staff meeting within 2 weeks of the plans approval and review it with all staff. And within 3 days of the meeting, you will submit the required information to me, which is outlined in the stipulation of the action. The following violations were observed today: Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in Space 7 or Space 9. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. In Space 9, I observed peeling paint by the door seam as I was leaving the classroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 832 There was no written emergency medical care (EMC) plan. The EMC plan posted, list staff that are no longer employed at the facility. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. One staff did not have a current Health questionnaire on file, it was completed last 1/23/23. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. One staff has not update her emergency information since 1/23/23. .0701(a) 1898 Staff did not complete the health and safety training within one year of employment. One staff has not completed health and safety trainings and has been employed more than one year; she has been employed since 6-12-23. .1102(a) Compliance Letter: Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Bianca Covington, Director, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the consultant, andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before July 10, 2024. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Staff Files: I highly encourage you to keep the staff and training worksheets updated on your computer. The spreadsheet can be found on the DCDEE website, under provide document. It is an excel spreadsheet, you can enter the information for each staff. I encourage you to color code the document to notify you when staff's have items that is expiring or is needed. We discussed utilizing the staff file checklist that is also on the DCDEE website, under provider documents. That checklist tells also tells you when items are required to be on file. The Health and Safety Training Logs and On-going Training Logs are also found on the DCDEE websites. I also encourage you to share these forms with staff, as they are required to maintain these as part of their professional development. During staff meetings going over the requirements found in Section 10A NCAC 09 .1100. Management: I encourage you to have a procedure to ensure each classroom has a current activity plan posted each week. We discussed having a daily or weekly checklist that you use, on the checklist it may have outlets covered, activity plan posted and are current, menu posted and current, materials accessible, in good repair and sufficient, walls in good repair, ceilings in good repair, etc. Other: I share the Challenging Behaviors Helpline Brochure from CCRI for you and your staff to utilize. If you have any questions please contact me Andrea Anderson 12233 Royal Castle Ct Charlotte, NC, 28277 andrea.anderson.dhhs.nc.gov (704)594-0039 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1801 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0324-348L Visit Date: 4/10/2024 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 4/10/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s complaint follow-up visit was to monitor corrections to violations cited during the 4/2/24 complaint visit. The 18 month compliance history, prior to today’s visit was 86%. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Megan Fiege, Center Director. I explained the purpose of today’s visit. You were not present during the 4/2/24 visit so we discussed that visit prior to completing a walkthrough of the facility. During the walkthrough I observed each group of children in care. Supervision and staff/child ratio were observed being maintained. Staff were observed interacting with children while moving about the indoor and outdoor environment, rendering assistance to children in care. As groups transitioned, the administrators met the group in the hallway and observed the name to face check as the group was entering the hallway, the playground and the classroom. Once all children were accounted and prior to moving to the next space one staff checked the surroundings to ensure nobody was missing from the group. While in Space 12, a room that serves one year old's I observed three new children's chairs stacked against the wall the arms of the chairs had bubble wrap. You removed them during the visit. Each group of children were observed being cared for in adequate approved space. The current One Star License was observed posted and all permit restrictions were observed meeting compliance. The following violation was cited during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 12, a room serving one year old's, three new children's chairs were stacked against the wall and the arms of the chairs were covered in bubble wrap. .0604(q) Compliance statement: Because the violation was corrected during the visit you are not required to submit a compliance statement to me. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .o6o4(q) - We discussed not storing items in plastic ziplock bags in rooms serving children under 3 years of age. We also discussed when any new material is placed in a classroom, if it is accessible to children in care it needs to be ready for use. Nothing accessible to children should be stored in plastic in rooms serving children under 3 years of age, this includes the plastic wrap holding a new stack of construction paper, posters etc. Supervision: Since you weren’t present during the last visit I reviewed 10A NCAC 09 .1801(a) with you. During meal times, I encourage all groups get through that transition before moving to the next thing, for instance you don't want to put cots down as children are finishing lunch, finish eating and washing hands prior to starting the naptime transition. Administrative Action: Based on the substantiation of the allegation; an Administrative Action Written Warning has been recommended and is currently in review. Requirements regarding Written Warnings can be found in 10A NCAC 09 .2203. I will be conducting unannounced visits every 4-6 weeks during this process. If you have any questions please contact me: Andrea Anderson 12233 Royal Castle Ct. Charlotte, NC 28277 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 .2203 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0324-348L Visit Date: 4/10/2024 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 4/10/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s complaint follow-up visit was to monitor corrections to violations cited during the 4/2/24 complaint visit. The 18 month compliance history, prior to today’s visit was 86%. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Megan Fiege, Center Director. I explained the purpose of today’s visit. You were not present during the 4/2/24 visit so we discussed that visit prior to completing a walkthrough of the facility. During the walkthrough I observed each group of children in care. Supervision and staff/child ratio were observed being maintained. Staff were observed interacting with children while moving about the indoor and outdoor environment, rendering assistance to children in care. As groups transitioned, the administrators met the group in the hallway and observed the name to face check as the group was entering the hallway, the playground and the classroom. Once all children were accounted and prior to moving to the next space one staff checked the surroundings to ensure nobody was missing from the group. While in Space 12, a room that serves one year old's I observed three new children's chairs stacked against the wall the arms of the chairs had bubble wrap. You removed them during the visit. Each group of children were observed being cared for in adequate approved space. The current One Star License was observed posted and all permit restrictions were observed meeting compliance. The following violation was cited during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space 12, a room serving one year old's, three new children's chairs were stacked against the wall and the arms of the chairs were covered in bubble wrap. .0604(q) Compliance statement: Because the violation was corrected during the visit you are not required to submit a compliance statement to me. Technical Assistance was provided on the following: Child Care Requirement 10A NCAC 09 .o6o4(q) - We discussed not storing items in plastic ziplock bags in rooms serving children under 3 years of age. We also discussed when any new material is placed in a classroom, if it is accessible to children in care it needs to be ready for use. Nothing accessible to children should be stored in plastic in rooms serving children under 3 years of age, this includes the plastic wrap holding a new stack of construction paper, posters etc. Supervision: Since you weren’t present during the last visit I reviewed 10A NCAC 09 .1801(a) with you. During meal times, I encourage all groups get through that transition before moving to the next thing, for instance you don't want to put cots down as children are finishing lunch, finish eating and washing hands prior to starting the naptime transition. Administrative Action: Based on the substantiation of the allegation; an Administrative Action Written Warning has been recommended and is currently in review. Requirements regarding Written Warnings can be found in 10A NCAC 09 .2203. I will be conducting unannounced visits every 4-6 weeks during this process. If you have any questions please contact me: Andrea Anderson 12233 Royal Castle Ct. Charlotte, NC 28277 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1801 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0324-348L Visit Date: 4/2/2024 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 4/2/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to investigate a report alleging violations of child care requirements. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Patillia Covington, Assistance Director. She stated she was aware of the incident that brought me to the center today. She also explained the director was not present. Allegation: There are concerns that a child was not adequately supervised. Findings: During today's investigation I interviewed the assistant director, the teacher who was caring for the child left in the hallway, and the staff that found the child in the hallway. This is self-report, the director left me a voicemail and contact DCDEE Intake to report the incident on March 26, 2024. During the interviews it was explained that on March 25, 2024 around 10:45 in the morning a group of two year olds from Space 8 were outdoors playing. They had been playing outdoor for about 15 minutes when another group of two year olds from Space 7 came outside. The played for another 10-15 minutes when Space 8 lined up to go inside. When the teacher opened the back hallway door to have her class enter the hallway she found a two year, belonging to Space 7, alone in the hallway. She stated the child was just standing waiting to go outdoors, she was not crying and didn't seem upset. Once she checked to see if she was ok she walked her over to her teacher and informed the teacher where she found the child. It was determined the child was left unattended for 10-15 minutes. Once Space 8 was back in their classroom, hands washed, diapering and lunch occurred and the room settled down she notified the administrators about the incident. Space 7 staff stated she conducted a name to face check as they left the classroom. Her group of children started walking down the hallway and an unused classroom door was cracked open and several of the children ran inside the room. She gathered them up redirecting them to the hallway to continue walking to the back door to go outdoors. She opened the back door and let all the children outside. She stated she did not follow procedure and complete the name to face check as they were exiting to the playground and she was unaware the child was not with the group until the other teacher brought her over and told her what happened. She stated that she understood the importance of completing the name to face check during transitions and counting children throughout the day so she knows the whereabouts of all children in her care. She informed me that they just changed classrooms 1-2 weeks ago, a few new children have started and she is getting familiar and was a little stressed. I asked if she had a walkie talkie and felt comfortable calling for assistance when needed and she stated she was able to do that and will moving forward. Staff reported since the incident all staff working with infants, toddlers and two year olds were retrained in the CSR (name to face check) procedure and reviewed the supervision procedures. All classrooms are now required to contact an administrator when they are ready to transition and an administrator will come observe the transition. I was also provided the staff's written statements to review, regarding the incident. The written statements mimicked what staff reported to me during today's interviews. The facility does not have cameras and did not capture the incident. The parents were notified of the incident and the child remains in care. Based on today's interviews and this being a self-report, this allegation is substantiated. A walkthrough of the facility was conducted today. I spent a little bit of time observing in Space 7 and I observed a transition to outdoors. Staff were observed calling the administrator letting her know they were ready to transition, once the administrator arrived the teacher completed the name to face check, lining the children up in the hallway as she completed the check. Once all children were accounted for she was instructed to scan the classroom one more time before closing the door. The group then walked outdoors, another name to face check was conducted as the children exited the building onto the playground. The administrator observed the name to face check being conducted, made sure all children exited the hallway with the group and provided feedback to the staff about the transition. During the walkthrough I observed groups in center play, diapering, and large group time. Supervision and staff/child ratio were maintained. Each group was observed in approved/adequate space. The current license was posted and all permit restrictions were observed meeting compliance. The following violation was cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. On March 25, 2024 the class from Space 8 was outdoors playing. Space 7 class came outdoors about 15 minutes later to play. Space 8 class finished outdoor play and began walking inside when a teacher noticed a two year old child, belonging to Space 7 class, in the hallway. The teacher checked the child asked if she was ok and then took her to her group's teacher outdoors and explained where she was found. It was determined that the child was left in the hallway unattended for 10-15 minutes. Space 7 teacher was unaware the child did not walk outside with the group, she did not complete the CSR (Name to face check) as the children entered the play area from the hallway. .1801(a)(1-5) Compliance Statement: Because you informed me how you have corrected the violation you are not required to submit a written statement to me. However, if you want to submit a detailed statement on steps you have taken to ensure correction to the violation you may send it to me by April 16, 2024. I will be conducted an unannounced follow up visit in the near future to monitor correction. Technical Assistance was provided today on the following: Supervision: I discussed what supervision means in a child care setting. The child care requirement regarding adequate supervision can be found in 10A NCAC 09 .1801(a). I asked how name to face checks are monitored, I encourage you to continue assisting with transitions from the classrooms and observed staff looking at each child as they call their name, make sure they mark the child before moving and check the area before closing the door. Calling out how many children present would also help, once the staff completes the name to face check she can state she has 9 children present. When the administrator arrives to observe/assist in the transition the first question should be is how many children are present, that way she will know how many children should have transitioned to the next place and the count the staff provides matches how many children are present at that time. I encourage you to discuss with all staff the importance of using the walkie talkies and to contact you anytime assistance is needed. Administrative Action: I explained based on the substantiation of the allegation and following child care requirement 10A NCAC 09 .2203, I would be recommending an Administrative Action written warning. During this time I will be conducted unannounced visits every 4-6 weeks. If you have any questions, please contact me Andrea Anderson 12233 Royal Castle Ct. Charlotte, NC 28277 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 .2203 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0324-348L Visit Date: 4/2/2024 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 4/2/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to investigate a report alleging violations of child care requirements. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Patillia Covington, Assistance Director. She stated she was aware of the incident that brought me to the center today. She also explained the director was not present. Allegation: There are concerns that a child was not adequately supervised. Findings: During today's investigation I interviewed the assistant director, the teacher who was caring for the child left in the hallway, and the staff that found the child in the hallway. This is self-report, the director left me a voicemail and contact DCDEE Intake to report the incident on March 26, 2024. During the interviews it was explained that on March 25, 2024 around 10:45 in the morning a group of two year olds from Space 8 were outdoors playing. They had been playing outdoor for about 15 minutes when another group of two year olds from Space 7 came outside. The played for another 10-15 minutes when Space 8 lined up to go inside. When the teacher opened the back hallway door to have her class enter the hallway she found a two year, belonging to Space 7, alone in the hallway. She stated the child was just standing waiting to go outdoors, she was not crying and didn't seem upset. Once she checked to see if she was ok she walked her over to her teacher and informed the teacher where she found the child. It was determined the child was left unattended for 10-15 minutes. Once Space 8 was back in their classroom, hands washed, diapering and lunch occurred and the room settled down she notified the administrators about the incident. Space 7 staff stated she conducted a name to face check as they left the classroom. Her group of children started walking down the hallway and an unused classroom door was cracked open and several of the children ran inside the room. She gathered them up redirecting them to the hallway to continue walking to the back door to go outdoors. She opened the back door and let all the children outside. She stated she did not follow procedure and complete the name to face check as they were exiting to the playground and she was unaware the child was not with the group until the other teacher brought her over and told her what happened. She stated that she understood the importance of completing the name to face check during transitions and counting children throughout the day so she knows the whereabouts of all children in her care. She informed me that they just changed classrooms 1-2 weeks ago, a few new children have started and she is getting familiar and was a little stressed. I asked if she had a walkie talkie and felt comfortable calling for assistance when needed and she stated she was able to do that and will moving forward. Staff reported since the incident all staff working with infants, toddlers and two year olds were retrained in the CSR (name to face check) procedure and reviewed the supervision procedures. All classrooms are now required to contact an administrator when they are ready to transition and an administrator will come observe the transition. I was also provided the staff's written statements to review, regarding the incident. The written statements mimicked what staff reported to me during today's interviews. The facility does not have cameras and did not capture the incident. The parents were notified of the incident and the child remains in care. Based on today's interviews and this being a self-report, this allegation is substantiated. A walkthrough of the facility was conducted today. I spent a little bit of time observing in Space 7 and I observed a transition to outdoors. Staff were observed calling the administrator letting her know they were ready to transition, once the administrator arrived the teacher completed the name to face check, lining the children up in the hallway as she completed the check. Once all children were accounted for she was instructed to scan the classroom one more time before closing the door. The group then walked outdoors, another name to face check was conducted as the children exited the building onto the playground. The administrator observed the name to face check being conducted, made sure all children exited the hallway with the group and provided feedback to the staff about the transition. During the walkthrough I observed groups in center play, diapering, and large group time. Supervision and staff/child ratio were maintained. Each group was observed in approved/adequate space. The current license was posted and all permit restrictions were observed meeting compliance. The following violation was cited today: Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. On March 25, 2024 the class from Space 8 was outdoors playing. Space 7 class came outdoors about 15 minutes later to play. Space 8 class finished outdoor play and began walking inside when a teacher noticed a two year old child, belonging to Space 7 class, in the hallway. The teacher checked the child asked if she was ok and then took her to her group's teacher outdoors and explained where she was found. It was determined that the child was left in the hallway unattended for 10-15 minutes. Space 7 teacher was unaware the child did not walk outside with the group, she did not complete the CSR (Name to face check) as the children entered the play area from the hallway. .1801(a)(1-5) Compliance Statement: Because you informed me how you have corrected the violation you are not required to submit a written statement to me. However, if you want to submit a detailed statement on steps you have taken to ensure correction to the violation you may send it to me by April 16, 2024. I will be conducted an unannounced follow up visit in the near future to monitor correction. Technical Assistance was provided today on the following: Supervision: I discussed what supervision means in a child care setting. The child care requirement regarding adequate supervision can be found in 10A NCAC 09 .1801(a). I asked how name to face checks are monitored, I encourage you to continue assisting with transitions from the classrooms and observed staff looking at each child as they call their name, make sure they mark the child before moving and check the area before closing the door. Calling out how many children present would also help, once the staff completes the name to face check she can state she has 9 children present. When the administrator arrives to observe/assist in the transition the first question should be is how many children are present, that way she will know how many children should have transitioned to the next place and the count the staff provides matches how many children are present at that time. I encourage you to discuss with all staff the importance of using the walkie talkies and to contact you anytime assistance is needed. Administrative Action: I explained based on the substantiation of the allegation and following child care requirement 10A NCAC 09 .2203, I would be recommending an Administrative Action written warning. During this time I will be conducted unannounced visits every 4-6 weeks. If you have any questions, please contact me Andrea Anderson 12233 Royal Castle Ct. Charlotte, NC 28277 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/13/2024 Number Present: 62 Completed Date: 3/13/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 305 Time In: 09:55 AM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the routine unannounced visit. The 18 month compliance history prior to today's visit was 92%. I met with Megan Fiege, Administrator, during today's visit. I explained the purpose of the visit. You were able to accompany me on the walk through of the facility. Supervision and staff/child ratio were observed meeting compliance. I observed staff moving about the indoor space monitoring children and engaged with children as they played. During lunch I observed staff seated or standing by the children as they ate. Each group was observed in approved/adequate space. Medications were monitored. The medications locked in your office were reviewed and i found that four infant Tylenol's only had parent permission and each bottle stated children's under 2 years of age consult a doctor. None had permission from the doctor to administer. One infant fever reducer has permission to administer one day and was not returned within 72 hours of completion. Diaper creams and lotions were observed in classrooms. One diaper cream was observed on the diaper changing station in Space 6, the room was not in use today, however the classroom door was not locked. You placed the diaper cream in the storage bin above 5 feet during the visit. Emergency medications were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Medical action plans were reviewed and found meeting compliance. While in the classrooms I observed the material in each center. While in Space 8, a room serving 2 year olds, I observed foam blocks and foam mirrors on the shelves accessible to children in care. They were removed during the visit. All other material in the classrooms were found to be clean, in good repair and developmentally appropriate for the age served. Currently activity plans were reviewed and found meeting compliance. There was evidence of the plan being implemented in each classroom. Staff were herd using nurturing tones, giving choices and asking open ended questions as they spoke with children in care. Cleaning supplies were observed stored properly. In Space 8, I observed aerosol foam paint stored in a cabinet with the key in the lock and the cabinet unlocked, this was corrected during the visit. Outlets were observed covered in each classroom. In space 8 and 9 the carpets by the back doors have one corner rolling up and torn and is considered a tripping hazard. While in the infant room, I reviewed the visual safe sleep documentation, observed staff conducting visual safe sleep checks and reviewed current feeding schedules posted. The air ducts in the ceiling in Space 1 has a lot of dust build up on the vent and on surrounding tiles. You stated you placed a work order last week for repair. Information required to be posted was observed posted. The current license was posted by the director's office as you enter the facility. All permit restrictions were observed meeting compliance. The last fire inspection was conducted on 8-31-23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 11-18-24. The emergency drill log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. I also reviewed the monthly playground inspections and incident log and found both meeting compliance. I reviewed the staff and training worksheets today and ensure each staff has a current DCDEE qualifying letter and I reviewed the specialized trainings. Two staff did not obtain CPR and FA certification within 90 days of employment. Today you stated you are now using your calendar to track dates to ensure they obtain the certification within the time frame required. Violation Number Comment Rule 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. Space 1, the air vent in the ceiling was observed with dust on the vent an don surrounding ceiling tiles. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. In Space 8 and 9, I observed the carpets by the back doors rolling up, which is considered a tripping hazard, and torn. .0601(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 8, I observed aerosol foam paint in an unlocked cabinet, the key was in the lock and the cabinet was unlocked. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. Space 6, I observed a diaper cream on the changing station in an unlocked classroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 846 Over-the-counter medicines were not in their original containers or administered as authorized in writing by parent, physician or authorized health professional. Four infant fever reducer medication did not have written permission by a physician and all bottles stated "Under 2 consult a physician" The permission was given by the parent and all children were under age 2. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. One infant fever reducer instructions stated to give one day for a child's reaction to the flu virus shot. The medication was not sent home or discarded within 72 hours of completion. .0803(12) 861 Prohibited styrofoam and foam rubber products were accessible to children under 3 years of age and/or approved foam products were used without proper supervision. While in Space 9, a room serving two year olds, I observed foam blocks and foam mirrors on the shelves accessible to children in care. .0604(q) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Tow staff did not obtain First Aid certification within the first 90 days of employment. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two staff did not obtain CPR certification within 90 days of employment. .1102(d) Compliance Statement Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Megan Fiege, administrator, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the consultant, andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before March 27, 2024. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Technical Assistance Medications: I highly encourage you to review the medication requirements found in 10A NCAC 09 .0803 of the child care requirements. I also encourage all medications come through the administrators. When accepting medications you must ensure the manufacture guidelines are followed, if a parent wants you to administer the medication and the instructions on the medication don't allow for that age or the dosage is ore than what is recommended you must obtain permission from a physician. A parent may give a caregiver standing authorization to administer a single weight-appropriate dose of acetaminophen to a child in the event the child has a fever and a parent cannot be reached. The authorization shall be in writing and shall contain (a)the child's name, (b) the signature of the parent; (c) the date the authorization was signed by the parent; and (d) the date that the authorization ends or a statement that the authorization is valid until withdrawn by the parent in writing. I highly encourage you put a process in place to monitor medications you accept on premise. Inform parents they will need to take a few minutes to check medications in to ensure you have all required information prior to allowing it to stay on premise. Storage: When items are required to be locked, the key cannot remain in the lock. It must be locked and the key removed from the lock in order for it to be considered locked. Having the key remain in the lock allows for anyone, including children, quick access to opening the cabinet, drawer, or door. Anything that is combustible or in an aerosol can must be in a locked cabinet/storage. Clean and in good repair: Encourage staff to communicate with you when they see dust build up, walls, carpets, material and equipment in poor repair. It must be removed immediately or made in accessible to children in care until it can be replaced, repaired or removed. Contact me anytime you have questions, or need clarification on requirements. You may also request a technical assistance visit to discuss requirements at anytime. Andrea Anderson 12233 Royal Castle Ct Charlotte, NC 28277 andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov (704)594-0039 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 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: ANDREA ANDERSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/13/2024 Number Present: 62 Completed Date: 3/13/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 305 Time In: 09:55 AM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor compliance of applicable child care requirements during the routine unannounced visit. The 18 month compliance history prior to today's visit was 92%. I met with Megan Fiege, Administrator, during today's visit. I explained the purpose of the visit. You were able to accompany me on the walk through of the facility. Supervision and staff/child ratio were observed meeting compliance. I observed staff moving about the indoor space monitoring children and engaged with children as they played. During lunch I observed staff seated or standing by the children as they ate. Each group was observed in approved/adequate space. Medications were monitored. The medications locked in your office were reviewed and i found that four infant Tylenol's only had parent permission and each bottle stated children's under 2 years of age consult a doctor. None had permission from the doctor to administer. One infant fever reducer has permission to administer one day and was not returned within 72 hours of completion. Diaper creams and lotions were observed in classrooms. One diaper cream was observed on the diaper changing station in Space 6, the room was not in use today, however the classroom door was not locked. You placed the diaper cream in the storage bin above 5 feet during the visit. Emergency medications were reviewed and found meeting compliance. Medical action plans were reviewed and found meeting compliance. While in the classrooms I observed the material in each center. While in Space 8, a room serving 2 year olds, I observed foam blocks and foam mirrors on the shelves accessible to children in care. They were removed during the visit. All other material in the classrooms were found to be clean, in good repair and developmentally appropriate for the age served. Currently activity plans were reviewed and found meeting compliance. There was evidence of the plan being implemented in each classroom. Staff were herd using nurturing tones, giving choices and asking open ended questions as they spoke with children in care. Cleaning supplies were observed stored properly. In Space 8, I observed aerosol foam paint stored in a cabinet with the key in the lock and the cabinet unlocked, this was corrected during the visit. Outlets were observed covered in each classroom. In space 8 and 9 the carpets by the back doors have one corner rolling up and torn and is considered a tripping hazard. While in the infant room, I reviewed the visual safe sleep documentation, observed staff conducting visual safe sleep checks and reviewed current feeding schedules posted. The air ducts in the ceiling in Space 1 has a lot of dust build up on the vent and on surrounding tiles. You stated you placed a work order last week for repair. Information required to be posted was observed posted. The current license was posted by the director's office as you enter the facility. All permit restrictions were observed meeting compliance. The last fire inspection was conducted on 8-31-23. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 11-18-24. The emergency drill log was reviewed and found meeting compliance. I also reviewed the monthly playground inspections and incident log and found both meeting compliance. I reviewed the staff and training worksheets today and ensure each staff has a current DCDEE qualifying letter and I reviewed the specialized trainings. Two staff did not obtain CPR and FA certification within 90 days of employment. Today you stated you are now using your calendar to track dates to ensure they obtain the certification within the time frame required. Violation Number Comment Rule 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean and in good repair. Space 1, the air vent in the ceiling was observed with dust on the vent an don surrounding ceiling tiles. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. In Space 8 and 9, I observed the carpets by the back doors rolling up, which is considered a tripping hazard, and torn. .0601(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In Space 8, I observed aerosol foam paint in an unlocked cabinet, the key was in the lock and the cabinet was unlocked. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. Space 6, I observed a diaper cream on the changing station in an unlocked classroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 846 Over-the-counter medicines were not in their original containers or administered as authorized in writing by parent, physician or authorized health professional. Four infant fever reducer medication did not have written permission by a physician and all bottles stated "Under 2 consult a physician" The permission was given by the parent and all children were under age 2. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(4) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. One infant fever reducer instructions stated to give one day for a child's reaction to the flu virus shot. The medication was not sent home or discarded within 72 hours of completion. .0803(12) 861 Prohibited styrofoam and foam rubber products were accessible to children under 3 years of age and/or approved foam products were used without proper supervision. While in Space 9, a room serving two year olds, I observed foam blocks and foam mirrors on the shelves accessible to children in care. .0604(q) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Tow staff did not obtain First Aid certification within the first 90 days of employment. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Two staff did not obtain CPR certification within 90 days of employment. .1102(d) Compliance Statement Childcare providers are expected to maintain compliance with all applicable child care requirements at all times. All violations cited today shall be corrected immediately. Megan Fiege, administrator, will email a compliance letter explaining how each violation cited today has been corrected. The compliance letter must be received by the consultant, andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov, on or before March 27, 2024. Failure to correct the violations and/or submit the compliance letter to me by the date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted to ensure corrections were made. Technical Assistance Medications: I highly encourage you to review the medication requirements found in 10A NCAC 09 .0803 of the child care requirements. I also encourage all medications come through the administrators. When accepting medications you must ensure the manufacture guidelines are followed, if a parent wants you to administer the medication and the instructions on the medication don't allow for that age or the dosage is ore than what is recommended you must obtain permission from a physician. A parent may give a caregiver standing authorization to administer a single weight-appropriate dose of acetaminophen to a child in the event the child has a fever and a parent cannot be reached. The authorization shall be in writing and shall contain (a)the child's name, (b) the signature of the parent; (c) the date the authorization was signed by the parent; and (d) the date that the authorization ends or a statement that the authorization is valid until withdrawn by the parent in writing. I highly encourage you put a process in place to monitor medications you accept on premise. Inform parents they will need to take a few minutes to check medications in to ensure you have all required information prior to allowing it to stay on premise. Storage: When items are required to be locked, the key cannot remain in the lock. It must be locked and the key removed from the lock in order for it to be considered locked. Having the key remain in the lock allows for anyone, including children, quick access to opening the cabinet, drawer, or door. Anything that is combustible or in an aerosol can must be in a locked cabinet/storage. Clean and in good repair: Encourage staff to communicate with you when they see dust build up, walls, carpets, material and equipment in poor repair. It must be removed immediately or made in accessible to children in care until it can be replaced, repaired or removed. Contact me anytime you have questions, or need clarification on requirements. You may also request a technical assistance visit to discuss requirements at anytime. Andrea Anderson 12233 Royal Castle Ct Charlotte, NC 28277 andrea.anderson@dhhs.nc.gov (704)594-0039 If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: RESHA WASHINGTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/24/2023 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 8/24/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 480 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 06:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor the facility for all applicable child care requirements during an Annual Compliance visit. The facility is currently operating with a One Star Rated License issued on 02/02/23 and had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 88 % prior to today’s visit. The June 2022 Child Care Center Item Number Listing and the March 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. Upon arrival I was greeted at the entrance by Ms. B. Covington, Assistant Director. I introduced myself and explained the purpose of my visit as I entered the facility. Ms. Covington directed me to Ms. M. Fiege’s office, Center Director, and after discussing the purpose of today’s visit and placing my personal items in a secured area we began the walk through of the facility. During the visit I observed children engaged in free play activities, mealtime routines, transitional activities and naptime. Teachers provided nurturing interactions and the facility was found in compliance with supervision, staff/child ratio, capacity and group size. It was observed that the facility’s license, NC Summary of Law, Safe Arrival/Departure procedures, Emergency Medical Care Plan and First Aid poster were posted in a visible area. In Space #1 it was observed that two topical medications were present with incomplete medication authorization forms that did not include all the required information. These were removed during the walk through and placed in the office. In Space #2 it was observed that one electrical outlet was not covered with a safety plug when not in use. This was corrected during the walk through. It was also observed that there were two topical medications present with incomplete medication authorization forms that did not include all the required information. These were removed during the walk through and placed in the office. In Space #4 it was observed that one electrical outlet was not covered with a safety plug when not in use. This was corrected during the walk through. In Space #5 there were two (2) medications present with incomplete medication authorization forms that did not include all the required information. These were removed during the walk through and placed in the office. It was also observed that there was one (1) emergency medication present that did not have a current medical authorization form on file. In Space #11 it was observed that two electrical outlets were not covered with safety plugs when not in use. This was corrected during the walk through. The outdoor learning environment was monitored. It was observed that there was trash and debris present in the path of traffic adjacent to two year old playground and in the area adjacent to the three year old playground. It was also observed that the mulch on the shared infant/toddler playground was not sufficient to meet the requirements of at least 6 inches of loose surface materials. Also while monitoring the playground it was observed that there was overgrown vegetation in the area surrounding the air conditioning unit, the areas adjacent to both the two and three year old classroom, as well as on the shared infant/toddler playground. The center’s incident logs and copies of the incident reports were monitored in each applicable child’s file. Monthly outdoor inspections were monitored for the past twelve months found to have been conducted and documented as required. Monthly fire drills were monitored. They were found to be documented and current. Emergency drills were monitored and were found to be conducted and documented as required. The kitchen was monitored and found to be in compliance. Seven (7) children’s files were monitored today and it was observed that three (3) children did not have current written permission on file to travel outside the fenced area of the facility. Eight (8) staff files were monitored today. It was observed that two veteran staff members did not have current annual professional development plans on file, current annual staff evaluations on file or current emergency contact information on file. It was also observed that there was no record of the two veteran staff having reviewed the center’s Emergency Medical Care Plan and Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan annually as required. While monitoring six (6) new staff files it was observed they did not have signed job descriptions on file or signed acknowledgement statements for a review of both operational and personnel policies. One new staff member did not have a completed medical report on file with all required information and one new staff member did not complete the required Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment within the first 90 days of employment, as required. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan was reviewed and found to have been updated annually as required. The Ready to Go File was monitored and found to be in compliance. The facility does not provide transportation. The last annual Sanitation Inspection was conducted on 07/12/23 with a rating of Approved and 19 demerits. The last annual Fire Inspection the facility has on file was conducted on 05/19/22. There should have been another one conducted either on or before 05/19/23. There were 13 violations cited during today’s visit. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last annual Fire Inspection the facility has on file was conducted on 05/19/22. There should have been another one conducted either on or before 05/19/23. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 808 The outdoor premises were not clean, drained and free of litter and hazardous materials grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. The outdoor learning environment was monitored. It was observed that there was trash and debris present in the path of traffic adjacent to two-year-old playground and in the area adjacent to the three year old playground. It was also observed that there was overgrown vegetation in the area surrounding the air conditioning unit, the areas adjacent to both the two and three year old classroom, as well as on the shared infant/toddler playground. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Spaces #2, 4 and 11 it was observed that electrical outlets were not covered with safety plugs when not in use. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. It was observed that there was no record of two veteran staff having reviewed the center’s Emergency Medical Care Plan annually as required. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. It was observed that one new staff member did not have a completed current medical report on file with all required information. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. It was observed that two veteran staff had not updated their Emergency Information Form annually as required. .0701(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. It was observed that two veteran staff members personnel files did not contain annual staff evaluations and staff development plans. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1233 Each employee's personnel file did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. It was observed that six (6) new staff members personnel files did not contain signed and dated statements that they received a job descriptions and that they have received personnel and operational policies. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(g) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. It was observed that three children did not have current written statements from their parents giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis. .1005(b)(4) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. It was observed that there was no record of two veteran staff having reviewed the center’s Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan annually as required. .0607(f) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. It was observed that the mulch on the shared infant/toddler playground was not sufficient to meet the requirements of at least 6 inches of loose surface materials. .0605(k)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. It was observed that there was one (1) emergency medication present that did not have a current medical authorization form on file. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It was observed that one new staff member did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Corrective Action: Violations must be corrected immediately. The childcare provider is expected to maintain all applicable childcare requirements at all times. The provider will send me a compliance letter explaining how she corrected today’s violation and the steps she put in place to ensure on going compliance on or before Thursday September 07, 2023 to the email listed below. Failure to correct the violation and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: -It was discussed that all medication forms should be reviewed by both the administrator and staff when medication is brought in to ensure that they are completed in their entirety. -It was discussed that all bottles and drinking utensils stored in classroom refrigerator be labeled with the child’s name and date. We also discussed it is best practice to have each covered with either a lid or another approved covering. -We discussed that the initial sleep position for all infants under twelve months be on their back and this should be documented on their Safe Sleep Chart. I also reminded teachers to thoroughly complete all information required on the Safe Sleep Chart form including initialing each line as they document a child’s sleep position. - I reminded administrators that a parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to six months to administer prescription or over-the-counter medication to a child, when needed, for chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, and for allergic reactions. This can be found in the NC Child Care Rules in section 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS. -The toxic plant list was shared and I reminded administrators to review it prior to placing any plants in classrooms, on the playground or planning any gardening activities. -We discussed the importance of putting a system in place for the review of all required paperwork for both children and staff files. It was highly recommended to make a list of annual update requirements to ensure this is consistently being done. -We discussed the importance of ensuring that all required forms, paperwork and policies are updated as needed and that teachers are aware of any changes and have access to these forms as necessary. -We discussed the importance of ensuring all documentation and forms required in classrooms are written legibly and free of errors. -It was highly recommended to maintain your staff and training worksheets to always keep them current and maintain DCDEE WORKS status letters for each lead teacher, teacher, and administrator. - The center’s LLC is listed as current-active with the NC Secretary of State’s office. If you have any questions, please contact Resha K. Washington at 704-910-7947 or email resha.washington@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: RESHA WASHINGTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/24/2023 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 8/24/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 480 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 06:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor the facility for all applicable child care requirements during an Annual Compliance visit. The facility is currently operating with a One Star Rated License issued on 02/02/23 and had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 88 % prior to today’s visit. The June 2022 Child Care Center Item Number Listing and the March 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. Upon arrival I was greeted at the entrance by Ms. B. Covington, Assistant Director. I introduced myself and explained the purpose of my visit as I entered the facility. Ms. Covington directed me to Ms. M. Fiege’s office, Center Director, and after discussing the purpose of today’s visit and placing my personal items in a secured area we began the walk through of the facility. During the visit I observed children engaged in free play activities, mealtime routines, transitional activities and naptime. Teachers provided nurturing interactions and the facility was found in compliance with supervision, staff/child ratio, capacity and group size. It was observed that the facility’s license, NC Summary of Law, Safe Arrival/Departure procedures, Emergency Medical Care Plan and First Aid poster were posted in a visible area. In Space #1 it was observed that two topical medications were present with incomplete medication authorization forms that did not include all the required information. These were removed during the walk through and placed in the office. In Space #2 it was observed that one electrical outlet was not covered with a safety plug when not in use. This was corrected during the walk through. It was also observed that there were two topical medications present with incomplete medication authorization forms that did not include all the required information. These were removed during the walk through and placed in the office. In Space #4 it was observed that one electrical outlet was not covered with a safety plug when not in use. This was corrected during the walk through. In Space #5 there were two (2) medications present with incomplete medication authorization forms that did not include all the required information. These were removed during the walk through and placed in the office. It was also observed that there was one (1) emergency medication present that did not have a current medical authorization form on file. In Space #11 it was observed that two electrical outlets were not covered with safety plugs when not in use. This was corrected during the walk through. The outdoor learning environment was monitored. It was observed that there was trash and debris present in the path of traffic adjacent to two year old playground and in the area adjacent to the three year old playground. It was also observed that the mulch on the shared infant/toddler playground was not sufficient to meet the requirements of at least 6 inches of loose surface materials. Also while monitoring the playground it was observed that there was overgrown vegetation in the area surrounding the air conditioning unit, the areas adjacent to both the two and three year old classroom, as well as on the shared infant/toddler playground. The center’s incident logs and copies of the incident reports were monitored in each applicable child’s file. Monthly outdoor inspections were monitored for the past twelve months found to have been conducted and documented as required. Monthly fire drills were monitored. They were found to be documented and current. Emergency drills were monitored and were found to be conducted and documented as required. The kitchen was monitored and found to be in compliance. Seven (7) children’s files were monitored today and it was observed that three (3) children did not have current written permission on file to travel outside the fenced area of the facility. Eight (8) staff files were monitored today. It was observed that two veteran staff members did not have current annual professional development plans on file, current annual staff evaluations on file or current emergency contact information on file. It was also observed that there was no record of the two veteran staff having reviewed the center’s Emergency Medical Care Plan and Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan annually as required. While monitoring six (6) new staff files it was observed they did not have signed job descriptions on file or signed acknowledgement statements for a review of both operational and personnel policies. One new staff member did not have a completed medical report on file with all required information and one new staff member did not complete the required Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment within the first 90 days of employment, as required. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan was reviewed and found to have been updated annually as required. The Ready to Go File was monitored and found to be in compliance. The facility does not provide transportation. The last annual Sanitation Inspection was conducted on 07/12/23 with a rating of Approved and 19 demerits. The last annual Fire Inspection the facility has on file was conducted on 05/19/22. There should have been another one conducted either on or before 05/19/23. There were 13 violations cited during today’s visit. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last annual Fire Inspection the facility has on file was conducted on 05/19/22. There should have been another one conducted either on or before 05/19/23. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 808 The outdoor premises were not clean, drained and free of litter and hazardous materials grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. The outdoor learning environment was monitored. It was observed that there was trash and debris present in the path of traffic adjacent to two-year-old playground and in the area adjacent to the three year old playground. It was also observed that there was overgrown vegetation in the area surrounding the air conditioning unit, the areas adjacent to both the two and three year old classroom, as well as on the shared infant/toddler playground. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Spaces #2, 4 and 11 it was observed that electrical outlets were not covered with safety plugs when not in use. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. It was observed that there was no record of two veteran staff having reviewed the center’s Emergency Medical Care Plan annually as required. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. It was observed that one new staff member did not have a completed current medical report on file with all required information. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. It was observed that two veteran staff had not updated their Emergency Information Form annually as required. .0701(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. It was observed that two veteran staff members personnel files did not contain annual staff evaluations and staff development plans. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1233 Each employee's personnel file did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. It was observed that six (6) new staff members personnel files did not contain signed and dated statements that they received a job descriptions and that they have received personnel and operational policies. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(g) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. It was observed that three children did not have current written statements from their parents giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis. .1005(b)(4) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. It was observed that there was no record of two veteran staff having reviewed the center’s Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan annually as required. .0607(f) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. It was observed that the mulch on the shared infant/toddler playground was not sufficient to meet the requirements of at least 6 inches of loose surface materials. .0605(k)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. It was observed that there was one (1) emergency medication present that did not have a current medical authorization form on file. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It was observed that one new staff member did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Corrective Action: Violations must be corrected immediately. The childcare provider is expected to maintain all applicable childcare requirements at all times. The provider will send me a compliance letter explaining how she corrected today’s violation and the steps she put in place to ensure on going compliance on or before Thursday September 07, 2023 to the email listed below. Failure to correct the violation and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: -It was discussed that all medication forms should be reviewed by both the administrator and staff when medication is brought in to ensure that they are completed in their entirety. -It was discussed that all bottles and drinking utensils stored in classroom refrigerator be labeled with the child’s name and date. We also discussed it is best practice to have each covered with either a lid or another approved covering. -We discussed that the initial sleep position for all infants under twelve months be on their back and this should be documented on their Safe Sleep Chart. I also reminded teachers to thoroughly complete all information required on the Safe Sleep Chart form including initialing each line as they document a child’s sleep position. - I reminded administrators that a parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to six months to administer prescription or over-the-counter medication to a child, when needed, for chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, and for allergic reactions. This can be found in the NC Child Care Rules in section 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS. -The toxic plant list was shared and I reminded administrators to review it prior to placing any plants in classrooms, on the playground or planning any gardening activities. -We discussed the importance of putting a system in place for the review of all required paperwork for both children and staff files. It was highly recommended to make a list of annual update requirements to ensure this is consistently being done. -We discussed the importance of ensuring that all required forms, paperwork and policies are updated as needed and that teachers are aware of any changes and have access to these forms as necessary. -We discussed the importance of ensuring all documentation and forms required in classrooms are written legibly and free of errors. -It was highly recommended to maintain your staff and training worksheets to always keep them current and maintain DCDEE WORKS status letters for each lead teacher, teacher, and administrator. - The center’s LLC is listed as current-active with the NC Secretary of State’s office. If you have any questions, please contact Resha K. Washington at 704-910-7947 or email resha.washington@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0514 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: RESHA WASHINGTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/24/2023 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 8/24/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 480 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 06:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor the facility for all applicable child care requirements during an Annual Compliance visit. The facility is currently operating with a One Star Rated License issued on 02/02/23 and had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 88 % prior to today’s visit. The June 2022 Child Care Center Item Number Listing and the March 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. Upon arrival I was greeted at the entrance by Ms. B. Covington, Assistant Director. I introduced myself and explained the purpose of my visit as I entered the facility. Ms. Covington directed me to Ms. M. Fiege’s office, Center Director, and after discussing the purpose of today’s visit and placing my personal items in a secured area we began the walk through of the facility. During the visit I observed children engaged in free play activities, mealtime routines, transitional activities and naptime. Teachers provided nurturing interactions and the facility was found in compliance with supervision, staff/child ratio, capacity and group size. It was observed that the facility’s license, NC Summary of Law, Safe Arrival/Departure procedures, Emergency Medical Care Plan and First Aid poster were posted in a visible area. In Space #1 it was observed that two topical medications were present with incomplete medication authorization forms that did not include all the required information. These were removed during the walk through and placed in the office. In Space #2 it was observed that one electrical outlet was not covered with a safety plug when not in use. This was corrected during the walk through. It was also observed that there were two topical medications present with incomplete medication authorization forms that did not include all the required information. These were removed during the walk through and placed in the office. In Space #4 it was observed that one electrical outlet was not covered with a safety plug when not in use. This was corrected during the walk through. In Space #5 there were two (2) medications present with incomplete medication authorization forms that did not include all the required information. These were removed during the walk through and placed in the office. It was also observed that there was one (1) emergency medication present that did not have a current medical authorization form on file. In Space #11 it was observed that two electrical outlets were not covered with safety plugs when not in use. This was corrected during the walk through. The outdoor learning environment was monitored. It was observed that there was trash and debris present in the path of traffic adjacent to two year old playground and in the area adjacent to the three year old playground. It was also observed that the mulch on the shared infant/toddler playground was not sufficient to meet the requirements of at least 6 inches of loose surface materials. Also while monitoring the playground it was observed that there was overgrown vegetation in the area surrounding the air conditioning unit, the areas adjacent to both the two and three year old classroom, as well as on the shared infant/toddler playground. The center’s incident logs and copies of the incident reports were monitored in each applicable child’s file. Monthly outdoor inspections were monitored for the past twelve months found to have been conducted and documented as required. Monthly fire drills were monitored. They were found to be documented and current. Emergency drills were monitored and were found to be conducted and documented as required. The kitchen was monitored and found to be in compliance. Seven (7) children’s files were monitored today and it was observed that three (3) children did not have current written permission on file to travel outside the fenced area of the facility. Eight (8) staff files were monitored today. It was observed that two veteran staff members did not have current annual professional development plans on file, current annual staff evaluations on file or current emergency contact information on file. It was also observed that there was no record of the two veteran staff having reviewed the center’s Emergency Medical Care Plan and Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan annually as required. While monitoring six (6) new staff files it was observed they did not have signed job descriptions on file or signed acknowledgement statements for a review of both operational and personnel policies. One new staff member did not have a completed medical report on file with all required information and one new staff member did not complete the required Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment within the first 90 days of employment, as required. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan was reviewed and found to have been updated annually as required. The Ready to Go File was monitored and found to be in compliance. The facility does not provide transportation. The last annual Sanitation Inspection was conducted on 07/12/23 with a rating of Approved and 19 demerits. The last annual Fire Inspection the facility has on file was conducted on 05/19/22. There should have been another one conducted either on or before 05/19/23. There were 13 violations cited during today’s visit. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last annual Fire Inspection the facility has on file was conducted on 05/19/22. There should have been another one conducted either on or before 05/19/23. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 808 The outdoor premises were not clean, drained and free of litter and hazardous materials grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. The outdoor learning environment was monitored. It was observed that there was trash and debris present in the path of traffic adjacent to two-year-old playground and in the area adjacent to the three year old playground. It was also observed that there was overgrown vegetation in the area surrounding the air conditioning unit, the areas adjacent to both the two and three year old classroom, as well as on the shared infant/toddler playground. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Spaces #2, 4 and 11 it was observed that electrical outlets were not covered with safety plugs when not in use. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. It was observed that there was no record of two veteran staff having reviewed the center’s Emergency Medical Care Plan annually as required. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. It was observed that one new staff member did not have a completed current medical report on file with all required information. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. It was observed that two veteran staff had not updated their Emergency Information Form annually as required. .0701(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. It was observed that two veteran staff members personnel files did not contain annual staff evaluations and staff development plans. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1233 Each employee's personnel file did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. It was observed that six (6) new staff members personnel files did not contain signed and dated statements that they received a job descriptions and that they have received personnel and operational policies. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(g) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. It was observed that three children did not have current written statements from their parents giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis. .1005(b)(4) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. It was observed that there was no record of two veteran staff having reviewed the center’s Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan annually as required. .0607(f) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. It was observed that the mulch on the shared infant/toddler playground was not sufficient to meet the requirements of at least 6 inches of loose surface materials. .0605(k)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. It was observed that there was one (1) emergency medication present that did not have a current medical authorization form on file. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It was observed that one new staff member did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Corrective Action: Violations must be corrected immediately. The childcare provider is expected to maintain all applicable childcare requirements at all times. The provider will send me a compliance letter explaining how she corrected today’s violation and the steps she put in place to ensure on going compliance on or before Thursday September 07, 2023 to the email listed below. Failure to correct the violation and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: -It was discussed that all medication forms should be reviewed by both the administrator and staff when medication is brought in to ensure that they are completed in their entirety. -It was discussed that all bottles and drinking utensils stored in classroom refrigerator be labeled with the child’s name and date. We also discussed it is best practice to have each covered with either a lid or another approved covering. -We discussed that the initial sleep position for all infants under twelve months be on their back and this should be documented on their Safe Sleep Chart. I also reminded teachers to thoroughly complete all information required on the Safe Sleep Chart form including initialing each line as they document a child’s sleep position. - I reminded administrators that a parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to six months to administer prescription or over-the-counter medication to a child, when needed, for chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, and for allergic reactions. This can be found in the NC Child Care Rules in section 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS. -The toxic plant list was shared and I reminded administrators to review it prior to placing any plants in classrooms, on the playground or planning any gardening activities. -We discussed the importance of putting a system in place for the review of all required paperwork for both children and staff files. It was highly recommended to make a list of annual update requirements to ensure this is consistently being done. -We discussed the importance of ensuring that all required forms, paperwork and policies are updated as needed and that teachers are aware of any changes and have access to these forms as necessary. -We discussed the importance of ensuring all documentation and forms required in classrooms are written legibly and free of errors. -It was highly recommended to maintain your staff and training worksheets to always keep them current and maintain DCDEE WORKS status letters for each lead teacher, teacher, and administrator. - The center’s LLC is listed as current-active with the NC Secretary of State’s office. If you have any questions, please contact Resha K. Washington at 704-910-7947 or email resha.washington@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: RESHA WASHINGTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/24/2023 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 8/24/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 480 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 06:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor the facility for all applicable child care requirements during an Annual Compliance visit. The facility is currently operating with a One Star Rated License issued on 02/02/23 and had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 88 % prior to today’s visit. The June 2022 Child Care Center Item Number Listing and the March 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. Upon arrival I was greeted at the entrance by Ms. B. Covington, Assistant Director. I introduced myself and explained the purpose of my visit as I entered the facility. Ms. Covington directed me to Ms. M. Fiege’s office, Center Director, and after discussing the purpose of today’s visit and placing my personal items in a secured area we began the walk through of the facility. During the visit I observed children engaged in free play activities, mealtime routines, transitional activities and naptime. Teachers provided nurturing interactions and the facility was found in compliance with supervision, staff/child ratio, capacity and group size. It was observed that the facility’s license, NC Summary of Law, Safe Arrival/Departure procedures, Emergency Medical Care Plan and First Aid poster were posted in a visible area. In Space #1 it was observed that two topical medications were present with incomplete medication authorization forms that did not include all the required information. These were removed during the walk through and placed in the office. In Space #2 it was observed that one electrical outlet was not covered with a safety plug when not in use. This was corrected during the walk through. It was also observed that there were two topical medications present with incomplete medication authorization forms that did not include all the required information. These were removed during the walk through and placed in the office. In Space #4 it was observed that one electrical outlet was not covered with a safety plug when not in use. This was corrected during the walk through. In Space #5 there were two (2) medications present with incomplete medication authorization forms that did not include all the required information. These were removed during the walk through and placed in the office. It was also observed that there was one (1) emergency medication present that did not have a current medical authorization form on file. In Space #11 it was observed that two electrical outlets were not covered with safety plugs when not in use. This was corrected during the walk through. The outdoor learning environment was monitored. It was observed that there was trash and debris present in the path of traffic adjacent to two year old playground and in the area adjacent to the three year old playground. It was also observed that the mulch on the shared infant/toddler playground was not sufficient to meet the requirements of at least 6 inches of loose surface materials. Also while monitoring the playground it was observed that there was overgrown vegetation in the area surrounding the air conditioning unit, the areas adjacent to both the two and three year old classroom, as well as on the shared infant/toddler playground. The center’s incident logs and copies of the incident reports were monitored in each applicable child’s file. Monthly outdoor inspections were monitored for the past twelve months found to have been conducted and documented as required. Monthly fire drills were monitored. They were found to be documented and current. Emergency drills were monitored and were found to be conducted and documented as required. The kitchen was monitored and found to be in compliance. Seven (7) children’s files were monitored today and it was observed that three (3) children did not have current written permission on file to travel outside the fenced area of the facility. Eight (8) staff files were monitored today. It was observed that two veteran staff members did not have current annual professional development plans on file, current annual staff evaluations on file or current emergency contact information on file. It was also observed that there was no record of the two veteran staff having reviewed the center’s Emergency Medical Care Plan and Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan annually as required. While monitoring six (6) new staff files it was observed they did not have signed job descriptions on file or signed acknowledgement statements for a review of both operational and personnel policies. One new staff member did not have a completed medical report on file with all required information and one new staff member did not complete the required Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment within the first 90 days of employment, as required. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan was reviewed and found to have been updated annually as required. The Ready to Go File was monitored and found to be in compliance. The facility does not provide transportation. The last annual Sanitation Inspection was conducted on 07/12/23 with a rating of Approved and 19 demerits. The last annual Fire Inspection the facility has on file was conducted on 05/19/22. There should have been another one conducted either on or before 05/19/23. There were 13 violations cited during today’s visit. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last annual Fire Inspection the facility has on file was conducted on 05/19/22. There should have been another one conducted either on or before 05/19/23. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 808 The outdoor premises were not clean, drained and free of litter and hazardous materials grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. The outdoor learning environment was monitored. It was observed that there was trash and debris present in the path of traffic adjacent to two-year-old playground and in the area adjacent to the three year old playground. It was also observed that there was overgrown vegetation in the area surrounding the air conditioning unit, the areas adjacent to both the two and three year old classroom, as well as on the shared infant/toddler playground. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Spaces #2, 4 and 11 it was observed that electrical outlets were not covered with safety plugs when not in use. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. It was observed that there was no record of two veteran staff having reviewed the center’s Emergency Medical Care Plan annually as required. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. It was observed that one new staff member did not have a completed current medical report on file with all required information. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. It was observed that two veteran staff had not updated their Emergency Information Form annually as required. .0701(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. It was observed that two veteran staff members personnel files did not contain annual staff evaluations and staff development plans. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1233 Each employee's personnel file did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. It was observed that six (6) new staff members personnel files did not contain signed and dated statements that they received a job descriptions and that they have received personnel and operational policies. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(g) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. It was observed that three children did not have current written statements from their parents giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis. .1005(b)(4) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. It was observed that there was no record of two veteran staff having reviewed the center’s Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan annually as required. .0607(f) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. It was observed that the mulch on the shared infant/toddler playground was not sufficient to meet the requirements of at least 6 inches of loose surface materials. .0605(k)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. It was observed that there was one (1) emergency medication present that did not have a current medical authorization form on file. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It was observed that one new staff member did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Corrective Action: Violations must be corrected immediately. The childcare provider is expected to maintain all applicable childcare requirements at all times. The provider will send me a compliance letter explaining how she corrected today’s violation and the steps she put in place to ensure on going compliance on or before Thursday September 07, 2023 to the email listed below. Failure to correct the violation and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: -It was discussed that all medication forms should be reviewed by both the administrator and staff when medication is brought in to ensure that they are completed in their entirety. -It was discussed that all bottles and drinking utensils stored in classroom refrigerator be labeled with the child’s name and date. We also discussed it is best practice to have each covered with either a lid or another approved covering. -We discussed that the initial sleep position for all infants under twelve months be on their back and this should be documented on their Safe Sleep Chart. I also reminded teachers to thoroughly complete all information required on the Safe Sleep Chart form including initialing each line as they document a child’s sleep position. - I reminded administrators that a parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to six months to administer prescription or over-the-counter medication to a child, when needed, for chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, and for allergic reactions. This can be found in the NC Child Care Rules in section 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS. -The toxic plant list was shared and I reminded administrators to review it prior to placing any plants in classrooms, on the playground or planning any gardening activities. -We discussed the importance of putting a system in place for the review of all required paperwork for both children and staff files. It was highly recommended to make a list of annual update requirements to ensure this is consistently being done. -We discussed the importance of ensuring that all required forms, paperwork and policies are updated as needed and that teachers are aware of any changes and have access to these forms as necessary. -We discussed the importance of ensuring all documentation and forms required in classrooms are written legibly and free of errors. -It was highly recommended to maintain your staff and training worksheets to always keep them current and maintain DCDEE WORKS status letters for each lead teacher, teacher, and administrator. - The center’s LLC is listed as current-active with the NC Secretary of State’s office. If you have any questions, please contact Resha K. Washington at 704-910-7947 or email resha.washington@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0802 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: RESHA WASHINGTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/24/2023 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 8/24/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 480 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 06:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor the facility for all applicable child care requirements during an Annual Compliance visit. The facility is currently operating with a One Star Rated License issued on 02/02/23 and had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 88 % prior to today’s visit. The June 2022 Child Care Center Item Number Listing and the March 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. Upon arrival I was greeted at the entrance by Ms. B. Covington, Assistant Director. I introduced myself and explained the purpose of my visit as I entered the facility. Ms. Covington directed me to Ms. M. Fiege’s office, Center Director, and after discussing the purpose of today’s visit and placing my personal items in a secured area we began the walk through of the facility. During the visit I observed children engaged in free play activities, mealtime routines, transitional activities and naptime. Teachers provided nurturing interactions and the facility was found in compliance with supervision, staff/child ratio, capacity and group size. It was observed that the facility’s license, NC Summary of Law, Safe Arrival/Departure procedures, Emergency Medical Care Plan and First Aid poster were posted in a visible area. In Space #1 it was observed that two topical medications were present with incomplete medication authorization forms that did not include all the required information. These were removed during the walk through and placed in the office. In Space #2 it was observed that one electrical outlet was not covered with a safety plug when not in use. This was corrected during the walk through. It was also observed that there were two topical medications present with incomplete medication authorization forms that did not include all the required information. These were removed during the walk through and placed in the office. In Space #4 it was observed that one electrical outlet was not covered with a safety plug when not in use. This was corrected during the walk through. In Space #5 there were two (2) medications present with incomplete medication authorization forms that did not include all the required information. These were removed during the walk through and placed in the office. It was also observed that there was one (1) emergency medication present that did not have a current medical authorization form on file. In Space #11 it was observed that two electrical outlets were not covered with safety plugs when not in use. This was corrected during the walk through. The outdoor learning environment was monitored. It was observed that there was trash and debris present in the path of traffic adjacent to two year old playground and in the area adjacent to the three year old playground. It was also observed that the mulch on the shared infant/toddler playground was not sufficient to meet the requirements of at least 6 inches of loose surface materials. Also while monitoring the playground it was observed that there was overgrown vegetation in the area surrounding the air conditioning unit, the areas adjacent to both the two and three year old classroom, as well as on the shared infant/toddler playground. The center’s incident logs and copies of the incident reports were monitored in each applicable child’s file. Monthly outdoor inspections were monitored for the past twelve months found to have been conducted and documented as required. Monthly fire drills were monitored. They were found to be documented and current. Emergency drills were monitored and were found to be conducted and documented as required. The kitchen was monitored and found to be in compliance. Seven (7) children’s files were monitored today and it was observed that three (3) children did not have current written permission on file to travel outside the fenced area of the facility. Eight (8) staff files were monitored today. It was observed that two veteran staff members did not have current annual professional development plans on file, current annual staff evaluations on file or current emergency contact information on file. It was also observed that there was no record of the two veteran staff having reviewed the center’s Emergency Medical Care Plan and Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan annually as required. While monitoring six (6) new staff files it was observed they did not have signed job descriptions on file or signed acknowledgement statements for a review of both operational and personnel policies. One new staff member did not have a completed medical report on file with all required information and one new staff member did not complete the required Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment within the first 90 days of employment, as required. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan was reviewed and found to have been updated annually as required. The Ready to Go File was monitored and found to be in compliance. The facility does not provide transportation. The last annual Sanitation Inspection was conducted on 07/12/23 with a rating of Approved and 19 demerits. The last annual Fire Inspection the facility has on file was conducted on 05/19/22. There should have been another one conducted either on or before 05/19/23. There were 13 violations cited during today’s visit. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last annual Fire Inspection the facility has on file was conducted on 05/19/22. There should have been another one conducted either on or before 05/19/23. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 808 The outdoor premises were not clean, drained and free of litter and hazardous materials grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. The outdoor learning environment was monitored. It was observed that there was trash and debris present in the path of traffic adjacent to two-year-old playground and in the area adjacent to the three year old playground. It was also observed that there was overgrown vegetation in the area surrounding the air conditioning unit, the areas adjacent to both the two and three year old classroom, as well as on the shared infant/toddler playground. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Spaces #2, 4 and 11 it was observed that electrical outlets were not covered with safety plugs when not in use. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. It was observed that there was no record of two veteran staff having reviewed the center’s Emergency Medical Care Plan annually as required. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. It was observed that one new staff member did not have a completed current medical report on file with all required information. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. It was observed that two veteran staff had not updated their Emergency Information Form annually as required. .0701(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. It was observed that two veteran staff members personnel files did not contain annual staff evaluations and staff development plans. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1233 Each employee's personnel file did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. It was observed that six (6) new staff members personnel files did not contain signed and dated statements that they received a job descriptions and that they have received personnel and operational policies. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(g) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. It was observed that three children did not have current written statements from their parents giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis. .1005(b)(4) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. It was observed that there was no record of two veteran staff having reviewed the center’s Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan annually as required. .0607(f) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. It was observed that the mulch on the shared infant/toddler playground was not sufficient to meet the requirements of at least 6 inches of loose surface materials. .0605(k)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. It was observed that there was one (1) emergency medication present that did not have a current medical authorization form on file. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It was observed that one new staff member did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Corrective Action: Violations must be corrected immediately. The childcare provider is expected to maintain all applicable childcare requirements at all times. The provider will send me a compliance letter explaining how she corrected today’s violation and the steps she put in place to ensure on going compliance on or before Thursday September 07, 2023 to the email listed below. Failure to correct the violation and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: -It was discussed that all medication forms should be reviewed by both the administrator and staff when medication is brought in to ensure that they are completed in their entirety. -It was discussed that all bottles and drinking utensils stored in classroom refrigerator be labeled with the child’s name and date. We also discussed it is best practice to have each covered with either a lid or another approved covering. -We discussed that the initial sleep position for all infants under twelve months be on their back and this should be documented on their Safe Sleep Chart. I also reminded teachers to thoroughly complete all information required on the Safe Sleep Chart form including initialing each line as they document a child’s sleep position. - I reminded administrators that a parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to six months to administer prescription or over-the-counter medication to a child, when needed, for chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, and for allergic reactions. This can be found in the NC Child Care Rules in section 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS. -The toxic plant list was shared and I reminded administrators to review it prior to placing any plants in classrooms, on the playground or planning any gardening activities. -We discussed the importance of putting a system in place for the review of all required paperwork for both children and staff files. It was highly recommended to make a list of annual update requirements to ensure this is consistently being done. -We discussed the importance of ensuring that all required forms, paperwork and policies are updated as needed and that teachers are aware of any changes and have access to these forms as necessary. -We discussed the importance of ensuring all documentation and forms required in classrooms are written legibly and free of errors. -It was highly recommended to maintain your staff and training worksheets to always keep them current and maintain DCDEE WORKS status letters for each lead teacher, teacher, and administrator. - The center’s LLC is listed as current-active with the NC Secretary of State’s office. If you have any questions, please contact Resha K. Washington at 704-910-7947 or email resha.washington@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER AT BALLANTYNE Facility ID: 60004205 Consultant: RESHA WASHINGTON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/24/2023 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 8/24/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 480 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 06:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor the facility for all applicable child care requirements during an Annual Compliance visit. The facility is currently operating with a One Star Rated License issued on 02/02/23 and had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 88 % prior to today’s visit. The June 2022 Child Care Center Item Number Listing and the March 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. Upon arrival I was greeted at the entrance by Ms. B. Covington, Assistant Director. I introduced myself and explained the purpose of my visit as I entered the facility. Ms. Covington directed me to Ms. M. Fiege’s office, Center Director, and after discussing the purpose of today’s visit and placing my personal items in a secured area we began the walk through of the facility. During the visit I observed children engaged in free play activities, mealtime routines, transitional activities and naptime. Teachers provided nurturing interactions and the facility was found in compliance with supervision, staff/child ratio, capacity and group size. It was observed that the facility’s license, NC Summary of Law, Safe Arrival/Departure procedures, Emergency Medical Care Plan and First Aid poster were posted in a visible area. In Space #1 it was observed that two topical medications were present with incomplete medication authorization forms that did not include all the required information. These were removed during the walk through and placed in the office. In Space #2 it was observed that one electrical outlet was not covered with a safety plug when not in use. This was corrected during the walk through. It was also observed that there were two topical medications present with incomplete medication authorization forms that did not include all the required information. These were removed during the walk through and placed in the office. In Space #4 it was observed that one electrical outlet was not covered with a safety plug when not in use. This was corrected during the walk through. In Space #5 there were two (2) medications present with incomplete medication authorization forms that did not include all the required information. These were removed during the walk through and placed in the office. It was also observed that there was one (1) emergency medication present that did not have a current medical authorization form on file. In Space #11 it was observed that two electrical outlets were not covered with safety plugs when not in use. This was corrected during the walk through. The outdoor learning environment was monitored. It was observed that there was trash and debris present in the path of traffic adjacent to two year old playground and in the area adjacent to the three year old playground. It was also observed that the mulch on the shared infant/toddler playground was not sufficient to meet the requirements of at least 6 inches of loose surface materials. Also while monitoring the playground it was observed that there was overgrown vegetation in the area surrounding the air conditioning unit, the areas adjacent to both the two and three year old classroom, as well as on the shared infant/toddler playground. The center’s incident logs and copies of the incident reports were monitored in each applicable child’s file. Monthly outdoor inspections were monitored for the past twelve months found to have been conducted and documented as required. Monthly fire drills were monitored. They were found to be documented and current. Emergency drills were monitored and were found to be conducted and documented as required. The kitchen was monitored and found to be in compliance. Seven (7) children’s files were monitored today and it was observed that three (3) children did not have current written permission on file to travel outside the fenced area of the facility. Eight (8) staff files were monitored today. It was observed that two veteran staff members did not have current annual professional development plans on file, current annual staff evaluations on file or current emergency contact information on file. It was also observed that there was no record of the two veteran staff having reviewed the center’s Emergency Medical Care Plan and Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan annually as required. While monitoring six (6) new staff files it was observed they did not have signed job descriptions on file or signed acknowledgement statements for a review of both operational and personnel policies. One new staff member did not have a completed medical report on file with all required information and one new staff member did not complete the required Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment within the first 90 days of employment, as required. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan was reviewed and found to have been updated annually as required. The Ready to Go File was monitored and found to be in compliance. The facility does not provide transportation. The last annual Sanitation Inspection was conducted on 07/12/23 with a rating of Approved and 19 demerits. The last annual Fire Inspection the facility has on file was conducted on 05/19/22. There should have been another one conducted either on or before 05/19/23. There were 13 violations cited during today’s visit. The following violations were cited during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last annual Fire Inspection the facility has on file was conducted on 05/19/22. There should have been another one conducted either on or before 05/19/23. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 808 The outdoor premises were not clean, drained and free of litter and hazardous materials grass and other vegetation in a manner which does not encourage vermin. The outdoor learning environment was monitored. It was observed that there was trash and debris present in the path of traffic adjacent to two-year-old playground and in the area adjacent to the three year old playground. It was also observed that there was overgrown vegetation in the area surrounding the air conditioning unit, the areas adjacent to both the two and three year old classroom, as well as on the shared infant/toddler playground. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. In Spaces #2, 4 and 11 it was observed that electrical outlets were not covered with safety plugs when not in use. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. It was observed that there was no record of two veteran staff having reviewed the center’s Emergency Medical Care Plan annually as required. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. It was observed that one new staff member did not have a completed current medical report on file with all required information. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. It was observed that two veteran staff had not updated their Emergency Information Form annually as required. .0701(a) 1232 Each employee's personnel file did not contain an annual staff evaluation and a staff development plan. It was observed that two veteran staff members personnel files did not contain annual staff evaluations and staff development plans. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(f) 1233 Each employee's personnel file did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. It was observed that six (6) new staff members personnel files did not contain signed and dated statements that they received a job descriptions and that they have received personnel and operational policies. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(g) 1322 A written statement from each child's parent giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis was not available. It was observed that three children did not have current written statements from their parents giving standing permission which may be valid for up to twelve months for participation in off premise activities that occur on a regular basis. .1005(b)(4) 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. It was observed that there was no record of two veteran staff having reviewed the center’s Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan annually as required. .0607(f) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. It was observed that the mulch on the shared infant/toddler playground was not sufficient to meet the requirements of at least 6 inches of loose surface materials. .0605(k)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. It was observed that there was one (1) emergency medication present that did not have a current medical authorization form on file. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. It was observed that one new staff member did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. .1102(g) Corrective Action: Violations must be corrected immediately. The childcare provider is expected to maintain all applicable childcare requirements at all times. The provider will send me a compliance letter explaining how she corrected today’s violation and the steps she put in place to ensure on going compliance on or before Thursday September 07, 2023 to the email listed below. Failure to correct the violation and send the written statement by the due date listed above may result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. Technical Assistance Provided and General Discussion: -It was discussed that all medication forms should be reviewed by both the administrator and staff when medication is brought in to ensure that they are completed in their entirety. -It was discussed that all bottles and drinking utensils stored in classroom refrigerator be labeled with the child’s name and date. We also discussed it is best practice to have each covered with either a lid or another approved covering. -We discussed that the initial sleep position for all infants under twelve months be on their back and this should be documented on their Safe Sleep Chart. I also reminded teachers to thoroughly complete all information required on the Safe Sleep Chart form including initialing each line as they document a child’s sleep position. - I reminded administrators that a parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to six months to administer prescription or over-the-counter medication to a child, when needed, for chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, and for allergic reactions. This can be found in the NC Child Care Rules in section 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS. -The toxic plant list was shared and I reminded administrators to review it prior to placing any plants in classrooms, on the playground or planning any gardening activities. -We discussed the importance of putting a system in place for the review of all required paperwork for both children and staff files. It was highly recommended to make a list of annual update requirements to ensure this is consistently being done. -We discussed the importance of ensuring that all required forms, paperwork and policies are updated as needed and that teachers are aware of any changes and have access to these forms as necessary. -We discussed the importance of ensuring all documentation and forms required in classrooms are written legibly and free of errors. -It was highly recommended to maintain your staff and training worksheets to always keep them current and maintain DCDEE WORKS status letters for each lead teacher, teacher, and administrator. - The center’s LLC is listed as current-active with the NC Secretary of State’s office. If you have any questions, please contact Resha K. Washington at 704-910-7947 or email resha.washington@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times