10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 115 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 295 Time In: 10:35 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 the full Annual Compliance visit. The facility was currently operating with a Five Star License issued on September 13, 2024 and had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 83% prior to today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on September 4, 2024. The April 2025 Center Item Number Listing and March 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. The license and NC Summary of the Law were prominently posted. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. J. Tinker, cook, and she stated Ms. Kimberly Doster, director, was subbing in a classroom today. I met Ms. Doster on the playground and explained the purpose of the visit. I monitored the facility unaccompanied. Eight (8) classrooms were monitored today. Children were observed participating in a variety of activities to include independent play, large group time, and playing outdoors. Arrival times were documented as required. Teachers were observed engaged and actively supervising children. Each classroom met staff/child ratios. Infants and toddlers were observed coming inside from outdoor play. Teachers washed children’s hands as they came back inside. Safe sleep checks were completed as required. Bottles were observed dated and labeled. Each child 15 months and younger had a posted feeding schedule. Classrooms were organized and had a variety of age appropriate materials. Playgrounds were monitored. I observed foam underlayment exposed around posts on the infant playground. Ms. Doster stated she put a work order in for the repair and that she believed maintenance planned to replace all of the artificial turf on the infant playground. I observed small wooden circle pieces from a broken toy on the toddler playground. The pieces were removed during the visit. Preschool aged children were observed on the large playground. Teachers provided adequate supervision and were observed engaged with children. Emergency medications were monitored. One (1) child’s medical action plan would expire on 8/27/25. Ms. Doster reached out to the parents to renew the form. The medication was stored behind lock and key in Space 1. I explained that ER medication was required to remain in unlocked storage above 5 feet. The teacher and I put the medication in the outdoor bookbag and hung it by the exterior door above 5 feet. The permission for the ER medication expired 3/26/25. I reminded Ms. Doster that medication permissions were valid for 6 months and medical action plans were valid for 12 months. The kitchen was monitored. Lunch met nutrition requirements and reflected what was posted on the menu. Transportation requirements were monitored. Two (2) buses were monitored. It was reported that only one (1) bus was being used. Both buses had current registration and insurance. Four (4) children did not have emergency identifying information completed and each was transported on 8/25/25. The same four (4) children did not have completed permission to transport. A sampling of staff files were monitored. No new employees were hired since the last annual compliance visit. I reviewed the completed staff/training worksheet and observed one (1) employee’s criminal background qualification expired 8/17/25. The employee, R. Belandria, has 14 days to renew her background qualification. The new qualification should be completed by 9/5/25 or she may not return to work. A sampling of children’s files were monitored. Fire Drill logs and emergency drills were completed as required. Playground inspections were completed as required. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 4/3/25 and received superior rating. The last fire inspection was conducted on 4/29/25. The EPR plan was updated 2/6/25. The secretary of state website was reviewed today and Kindercare Learning Centers LLC was current-active. The facility roster was not created in the ABCMS portal. Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The plexiglass on a doll house in Space 6 was cracked and exposed a sharp edge accessible to children. A one year old child was playing with a Matchbox car in Space 5b. The cars are suitable for children 3 years and older due to small parts. .0601(c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. A child's emergency medication was stored behind lock and key in Space 1. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 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. Small wooden circle pieces of a broken toy the size of a nickel were observed on the playground where two year old children were playing. .0604(q) 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. Foam surfacing was exposed underneath the artificial turf around posts on the infant playground. .0604(q) 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). The qualification letter for R. Belandria expired 8/17/25. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Four (4) school-aged children did not have emergency identifying information before being transported from elementary school to the center on 8/25/25. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. Four (4) children transported from elementary school to the center did not have written permission to transport. .1003(i)(j) 1801 The operator did not include the criminal history mandatory reporting requirement in all new employee orientation information. The center ABCMS roster was not completed. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(m) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. The medication permission for a child's emergency medication in Space 1 expired March 26, 2025. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Corrective Action: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Tuesday, September 9, 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 legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov The emailed compliance letter must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance/General Comments: The Pathways to the Stars transition will begin soon. In August, we’ll provide a rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform. We’ll also host informational webinars: Webinars – Choosing a Pathway to the Stars • August 18 at 1:00pm (child care centers and centers located in a residence) • August 18 at 6:30pm (family child care homes) • August 20 at 1:00pm (family child care homes) • August 20 at 6:30pm (child care centers and centers located in a residence) In September, child care consultants will host in-person facility operator/administrator meetings at Child Care Resources, Inc to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. Invites will be sent soon and attendees will be required to register for a session as space is limited. Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. The following was discussed: - CBC qualification letters can be renewed up to 6 months prior to the expiration. - I showed how to access the ABCMS training in Moodle. - Medication permissions should be renewed every 6 months. - Staff should move throughout the preschool playground to ensure children are not hidden behind the large trees on the playground. - ER medication should follow children throughout the facility and when outside the bag containing the medication must remain on the teacher. - Playground walkthroughs should be completed each morning before children go outdoors to ensure broken equipment/trash is removed. - Encourage children to not bring toys from home to the center to ensure materials are age-appropriate. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Thank you for your time today. Please contact me with questions or concerns at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648. 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 .1003 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 115 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 295 Time In: 10:35 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 the full Annual Compliance visit. The facility was currently operating with a Five Star License issued on September 13, 2024 and had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 83% prior to today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on September 4, 2024. The April 2025 Center Item Number Listing and March 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. The license and NC Summary of the Law were prominently posted. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. J. Tinker, cook, and she stated Ms. Kimberly Doster, director, was subbing in a classroom today. I met Ms. Doster on the playground and explained the purpose of the visit. I monitored the facility unaccompanied. Eight (8) classrooms were monitored today. Children were observed participating in a variety of activities to include independent play, large group time, and playing outdoors. Arrival times were documented as required. Teachers were observed engaged and actively supervising children. Each classroom met staff/child ratios. Infants and toddlers were observed coming inside from outdoor play. Teachers washed children’s hands as they came back inside. Safe sleep checks were completed as required. Bottles were observed dated and labeled. Each child 15 months and younger had a posted feeding schedule. Classrooms were organized and had a variety of age appropriate materials. Playgrounds were monitored. I observed foam underlayment exposed around posts on the infant playground. Ms. Doster stated she put a work order in for the repair and that she believed maintenance planned to replace all of the artificial turf on the infant playground. I observed small wooden circle pieces from a broken toy on the toddler playground. The pieces were removed during the visit. Preschool aged children were observed on the large playground. Teachers provided adequate supervision and were observed engaged with children. Emergency medications were monitored. One (1) child’s medical action plan would expire on 8/27/25. Ms. Doster reached out to the parents to renew the form. The medication was stored behind lock and key in Space 1. I explained that ER medication was required to remain in unlocked storage above 5 feet. The teacher and I put the medication in the outdoor bookbag and hung it by the exterior door above 5 feet. The permission for the ER medication expired 3/26/25. I reminded Ms. Doster that medication permissions were valid for 6 months and medical action plans were valid for 12 months. The kitchen was monitored. Lunch met nutrition requirements and reflected what was posted on the menu. Transportation requirements were monitored. Two (2) buses were monitored. It was reported that only one (1) bus was being used. Both buses had current registration and insurance. Four (4) children did not have emergency identifying information completed and each was transported on 8/25/25. The same four (4) children did not have completed permission to transport. A sampling of staff files were monitored. No new employees were hired since the last annual compliance visit. I reviewed the completed staff/training worksheet and observed one (1) employee’s criminal background qualification expired 8/17/25. The employee, R. Belandria, has 14 days to renew her background qualification. The new qualification should be completed by 9/5/25 or she may not return to work. A sampling of children’s files were monitored. Fire Drill logs and emergency drills were completed as required. Playground inspections were completed as required. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 4/3/25 and received superior rating. The last fire inspection was conducted on 4/29/25. The EPR plan was updated 2/6/25. The secretary of state website was reviewed today and Kindercare Learning Centers LLC was current-active. The facility roster was not created in the ABCMS portal. Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The plexiglass on a doll house in Space 6 was cracked and exposed a sharp edge accessible to children. A one year old child was playing with a Matchbox car in Space 5b. The cars are suitable for children 3 years and older due to small parts. .0601(c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. A child's emergency medication was stored behind lock and key in Space 1. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 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. Small wooden circle pieces of a broken toy the size of a nickel were observed on the playground where two year old children were playing. .0604(q) 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. Foam surfacing was exposed underneath the artificial turf around posts on the infant playground. .0604(q) 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). The qualification letter for R. Belandria expired 8/17/25. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Four (4) school-aged children did not have emergency identifying information before being transported from elementary school to the center on 8/25/25. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. Four (4) children transported from elementary school to the center did not have written permission to transport. .1003(i)(j) 1801 The operator did not include the criminal history mandatory reporting requirement in all new employee orientation information. The center ABCMS roster was not completed. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(m) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. The medication permission for a child's emergency medication in Space 1 expired March 26, 2025. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Corrective Action: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Tuesday, September 9, 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 legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov The emailed compliance letter must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance/General Comments: The Pathways to the Stars transition will begin soon. In August, we’ll provide a rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform. We’ll also host informational webinars: Webinars – Choosing a Pathway to the Stars • August 18 at 1:00pm (child care centers and centers located in a residence) • August 18 at 6:30pm (family child care homes) • August 20 at 1:00pm (family child care homes) • August 20 at 6:30pm (child care centers and centers located in a residence) In September, child care consultants will host in-person facility operator/administrator meetings at Child Care Resources, Inc to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. Invites will be sent soon and attendees will be required to register for a session as space is limited. Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. The following was discussed: - CBC qualification letters can be renewed up to 6 months prior to the expiration. - I showed how to access the ABCMS training in Moodle. - Medication permissions should be renewed every 6 months. - Staff should move throughout the preschool playground to ensure children are not hidden behind the large trees on the playground. - ER medication should follow children throughout the facility and when outside the bag containing the medication must remain on the teacher. - Playground walkthroughs should be completed each morning before children go outdoors to ensure broken equipment/trash is removed. - Encourage children to not bring toys from home to the center to ensure materials are age-appropriate. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Thank you for your time today. Please contact me with questions or concerns at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 115 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 295 Time In: 10:35 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 the full Annual Compliance visit. The facility was currently operating with a Five Star License issued on September 13, 2024 and had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 83% prior to today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on September 4, 2024. The April 2025 Center Item Number Listing and March 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. The license and NC Summary of the Law were prominently posted. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. J. Tinker, cook, and she stated Ms. Kimberly Doster, director, was subbing in a classroom today. I met Ms. Doster on the playground and explained the purpose of the visit. I monitored the facility unaccompanied. Eight (8) classrooms were monitored today. Children were observed participating in a variety of activities to include independent play, large group time, and playing outdoors. Arrival times were documented as required. Teachers were observed engaged and actively supervising children. Each classroom met staff/child ratios. Infants and toddlers were observed coming inside from outdoor play. Teachers washed children’s hands as they came back inside. Safe sleep checks were completed as required. Bottles were observed dated and labeled. Each child 15 months and younger had a posted feeding schedule. Classrooms were organized and had a variety of age appropriate materials. Playgrounds were monitored. I observed foam underlayment exposed around posts on the infant playground. Ms. Doster stated she put a work order in for the repair and that she believed maintenance planned to replace all of the artificial turf on the infant playground. I observed small wooden circle pieces from a broken toy on the toddler playground. The pieces were removed during the visit. Preschool aged children were observed on the large playground. Teachers provided adequate supervision and were observed engaged with children. Emergency medications were monitored. One (1) child’s medical action plan would expire on 8/27/25. Ms. Doster reached out to the parents to renew the form. The medication was stored behind lock and key in Space 1. I explained that ER medication was required to remain in unlocked storage above 5 feet. The teacher and I put the medication in the outdoor bookbag and hung it by the exterior door above 5 feet. The permission for the ER medication expired 3/26/25. I reminded Ms. Doster that medication permissions were valid for 6 months and medical action plans were valid for 12 months. The kitchen was monitored. Lunch met nutrition requirements and reflected what was posted on the menu. Transportation requirements were monitored. Two (2) buses were monitored. It was reported that only one (1) bus was being used. Both buses had current registration and insurance. Four (4) children did not have emergency identifying information completed and each was transported on 8/25/25. The same four (4) children did not have completed permission to transport. A sampling of staff files were monitored. No new employees were hired since the last annual compliance visit. I reviewed the completed staff/training worksheet and observed one (1) employee’s criminal background qualification expired 8/17/25. The employee, R. Belandria, has 14 days to renew her background qualification. The new qualification should be completed by 9/5/25 or she may not return to work. A sampling of children’s files were monitored. Fire Drill logs and emergency drills were completed as required. Playground inspections were completed as required. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 4/3/25 and received superior rating. The last fire inspection was conducted on 4/29/25. The EPR plan was updated 2/6/25. The secretary of state website was reviewed today and Kindercare Learning Centers LLC was current-active. The facility roster was not created in the ABCMS portal. Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The plexiglass on a doll house in Space 6 was cracked and exposed a sharp edge accessible to children. A one year old child was playing with a Matchbox car in Space 5b. The cars are suitable for children 3 years and older due to small parts. .0601(c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. A child's emergency medication was stored behind lock and key in Space 1. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 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. Small wooden circle pieces of a broken toy the size of a nickel were observed on the playground where two year old children were playing. .0604(q) 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. Foam surfacing was exposed underneath the artificial turf around posts on the infant playground. .0604(q) 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). The qualification letter for R. Belandria expired 8/17/25. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Four (4) school-aged children did not have emergency identifying information before being transported from elementary school to the center on 8/25/25. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. Four (4) children transported from elementary school to the center did not have written permission to transport. .1003(i)(j) 1801 The operator did not include the criminal history mandatory reporting requirement in all new employee orientation information. The center ABCMS roster was not completed. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(m) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. The medication permission for a child's emergency medication in Space 1 expired March 26, 2025. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Corrective Action: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Tuesday, September 9, 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 legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov The emailed compliance letter must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance/General Comments: The Pathways to the Stars transition will begin soon. In August, we’ll provide a rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform. We’ll also host informational webinars: Webinars – Choosing a Pathway to the Stars • August 18 at 1:00pm (child care centers and centers located in a residence) • August 18 at 6:30pm (family child care homes) • August 20 at 1:00pm (family child care homes) • August 20 at 6:30pm (child care centers and centers located in a residence) In September, child care consultants will host in-person facility operator/administrator meetings at Child Care Resources, Inc to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. Invites will be sent soon and attendees will be required to register for a session as space is limited. Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. The following was discussed: - CBC qualification letters can be renewed up to 6 months prior to the expiration. - I showed how to access the ABCMS training in Moodle. - Medication permissions should be renewed every 6 months. - Staff should move throughout the preschool playground to ensure children are not hidden behind the large trees on the playground. - ER medication should follow children throughout the facility and when outside the bag containing the medication must remain on the teacher. - Playground walkthroughs should be completed each morning before children go outdoors to ensure broken equipment/trash is removed. - Encourage children to not bring toys from home to the center to ensure materials are age-appropriate. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Thank you for your time today. Please contact me with questions or concerns at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648. 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 CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 115 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 295 Time In: 10:35 AM Time Out: 03:30 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 the full Annual Compliance visit. The facility was currently operating with a Five Star License issued on September 13, 2024 and had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 83% prior to today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on September 4, 2024. The April 2025 Center Item Number Listing and March 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. The license and NC Summary of the Law were prominently posted. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. J. Tinker, cook, and she stated Ms. Kimberly Doster, director, was subbing in a classroom today. I met Ms. Doster on the playground and explained the purpose of the visit. I monitored the facility unaccompanied. Eight (8) classrooms were monitored today. Children were observed participating in a variety of activities to include independent play, large group time, and playing outdoors. Arrival times were documented as required. Teachers were observed engaged and actively supervising children. Each classroom met staff/child ratios. Infants and toddlers were observed coming inside from outdoor play. Teachers washed children’s hands as they came back inside. Safe sleep checks were completed as required. Bottles were observed dated and labeled. Each child 15 months and younger had a posted feeding schedule. Classrooms were organized and had a variety of age appropriate materials. Playgrounds were monitored. I observed foam underlayment exposed around posts on the infant playground. Ms. Doster stated she put a work order in for the repair and that she believed maintenance planned to replace all of the artificial turf on the infant playground. I observed small wooden circle pieces from a broken toy on the toddler playground. The pieces were removed during the visit. Preschool aged children were observed on the large playground. Teachers provided adequate supervision and were observed engaged with children. Emergency medications were monitored. One (1) child’s medical action plan would expire on 8/27/25. Ms. Doster reached out to the parents to renew the form. The medication was stored behind lock and key in Space 1. I explained that ER medication was required to remain in unlocked storage above 5 feet. The teacher and I put the medication in the outdoor bookbag and hung it by the exterior door above 5 feet. The permission for the ER medication expired 3/26/25. I reminded Ms. Doster that medication permissions were valid for 6 months and medical action plans were valid for 12 months. The kitchen was monitored. Lunch met nutrition requirements and reflected what was posted on the menu. Transportation requirements were monitored. Two (2) buses were monitored. It was reported that only one (1) bus was being used. Both buses had current registration and insurance. Four (4) children did not have emergency identifying information completed and each was transported on 8/25/25. The same four (4) children did not have completed permission to transport. A sampling of staff files were monitored. No new employees were hired since the last annual compliance visit. I reviewed the completed staff/training worksheet and observed one (1) employee’s criminal background qualification expired 8/17/25. The employee, R. Belandria, has 14 days to renew her background qualification. The new qualification should be completed by 9/5/25 or she may not return to work. A sampling of children’s files were monitored. Fire Drill logs and emergency drills were completed as required. Playground inspections were completed as required. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 4/3/25 and received superior rating. The last fire inspection was conducted on 4/29/25. The EPR plan was updated 2/6/25. The secretary of state website was reviewed today and Kindercare Learning Centers LLC was current-active. The facility roster was not created in the ABCMS portal. Violation Number Comment Rule 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The plexiglass on a doll house in Space 6 was cracked and exposed a sharp edge accessible to children. A one year old child was playing with a Matchbox car in Space 5b. The cars are suitable for children 3 years and older due to small parts. .0601(c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. A child's emergency medication was stored behind lock and key in Space 1. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 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. Small wooden circle pieces of a broken toy the size of a nickel were observed on the playground where two year old children were playing. .0604(q) 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. Foam surfacing was exposed underneath the artificial turf around posts on the infant playground. .0604(q) 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). The qualification letter for R. Belandria expired 8/17/25. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Four (4) school-aged children did not have emergency identifying information before being transported from elementary school to the center on 8/25/25. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. Four (4) children transported from elementary school to the center did not have written permission to transport. .1003(i)(j) 1801 The operator did not include the criminal history mandatory reporting requirement in all new employee orientation information. The center ABCMS roster was not completed. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(m) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. The medication permission for a child's emergency medication in Space 1 expired March 26, 2025. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Corrective Action: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Tuesday, September 9, 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 legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov The emailed compliance letter must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance/General Comments: The Pathways to the Stars transition will begin soon. In August, we’ll provide a rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform. We’ll also host informational webinars: Webinars – Choosing a Pathway to the Stars • August 18 at 1:00pm (child care centers and centers located in a residence) • August 18 at 6:30pm (family child care homes) • August 20 at 1:00pm (family child care homes) • August 20 at 6:30pm (child care centers and centers located in a residence) In September, child care consultants will host in-person facility operator/administrator meetings at Child Care Resources, Inc to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. Invites will be sent soon and attendees will be required to register for a session as space is limited. Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. The following was discussed: - CBC qualification letters can be renewed up to 6 months prior to the expiration. - I showed how to access the ABCMS training in Moodle. - Medication permissions should be renewed every 6 months. - Staff should move throughout the preschool playground to ensure children are not hidden behind the large trees on the playground. - ER medication should follow children throughout the facility and when outside the bag containing the medication must remain on the teacher. - Playground walkthroughs should be completed each morning before children go outdoors to ensure broken equipment/trash is removed. - Encourage children to not bring toys from home to the center to ensure materials are age-appropriate. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Thank you for your time today. Please contact me with questions or concerns at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648. 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 CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0625-130L Visit Date: 7/1/2025 Number Present: 122 Completed Date: 7/1/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 63 Time In: 09:57 AM Time Out: 11:00 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced follow-up visit was to verify compliance with violations cited during a complaint visit conducted on 6/24/25 when staff/child ratio/group size was cited. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. Kimberly Doster, Director, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Doster accompanied me on the walkthrough. School aged children were observed leaving for a field trip on two (2) center buses. Ms. Doster stated they were going to the movies. The posted calendar showed the field trip destination and rosters were left at the facility. All classrooms were observed meeting staff/child ratio and group size requirements and each were observed being cared for in approved spaces. I observed two (2) children exiting the restrooms in the hallway unsupervised. They walked to Space 6 and out the door that led to the playground. Ms. Doster stated the classroom was on the playground. We walked to the playground and Ms. Doster spoke with the teachers responsible for the two (2) children and the teacher assistant stated she allowed the children to go unaccompanied to the restroom. Ms. Doster coached the teacher and explained the expectation. The following violations were verified corrected today: Item #209 regarding approved space Item #1127 regarding list of children at the center attending a field trip Item #1756 regarding staff/child ratio and group size One (1) violation was cited today. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. I observed two (2) children exiting the restrooms in the hallway unsupervised. They walked to Space 6 and out the door that led to the playground. .1801(a)(1-5) Corrective Action: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Tuesday, July 15, 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. Email the information to jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov. and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to verify compliance with supervision. Technical Assistance/General Comments: 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS Children shall be adequately supervised at all times in child care centers. Adequate supervision shall mean that: (1) staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance; (2) staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) staff must know where each child is located and be aware of the children's activities at all times; (4) staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child; and (5) staff must be able to see and hear children aged birth to five years old while the children are eating. All of the conditions in this Paragraph shall apply except when emergencies necessitate that adequate supervision is impossible. Documentation of emergencies shall be maintained and available for review by Division representatives upon request. - Children must be accompanied by a teacher when going to the restrooms. Restrooms are located in the hallway. Teachers standing in classroom doorways to supervise children does not meet the requirements in the rule. Staff should be able to render immediate assistance if necessary. If children need to use the restroom while on the playground one (1) teacher must take enough children inside with them to maintain ratio with one (1) teacher and to adequately supervise children at the restroom. I recommend taking all children to the restroom prior to going outside. Thank you for your time today. Please contact me at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648 with questions or concerns. 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 CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0625-130L Visit Date: 7/1/2025 Number Present: 122 Completed Date: 7/1/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 63 Time In: 09:57 AM Time Out: 11:00 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced follow-up visit was to verify compliance with violations cited during a complaint visit conducted on 6/24/25 when staff/child ratio/group size was cited. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. Kimberly Doster, Director, and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Doster accompanied me on the walkthrough. School aged children were observed leaving for a field trip on two (2) center buses. Ms. Doster stated they were going to the movies. The posted calendar showed the field trip destination and rosters were left at the facility. All classrooms were observed meeting staff/child ratio and group size requirements and each were observed being cared for in approved spaces. I observed two (2) children exiting the restrooms in the hallway unsupervised. They walked to Space 6 and out the door that led to the playground. Ms. Doster stated the classroom was on the playground. We walked to the playground and Ms. Doster spoke with the teachers responsible for the two (2) children and the teacher assistant stated she allowed the children to go unaccompanied to the restroom. Ms. Doster coached the teacher and explained the expectation. The following violations were verified corrected today: Item #209 regarding approved space Item #1127 regarding list of children at the center attending a field trip Item #1756 regarding staff/child ratio and group size One (1) violation was cited today. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. I observed two (2) children exiting the restrooms in the hallway unsupervised. They walked to Space 6 and out the door that led to the playground. .1801(a)(1-5) Corrective Action: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Tuesday, July 15, 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. Email the information to jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov. and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. A follow-up visit will be conducted in the near future to verify compliance with supervision. Technical Assistance/General Comments: 10A NCAC 09 .1801 SUPERVISION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS Children shall be adequately supervised at all times in child care centers. Adequate supervision shall mean that: (1) staff must be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize their ability to hear or see the children at all times and render assistance; (2) staff must interact with the children while moving about the indoor or outdoor area; (3) staff must know where each child is located and be aware of the children's activities at all times; (4) staff must provide supervision appropriate to the individual age, needs, and capabilities of each child; and (5) staff must be able to see and hear children aged birth to five years old while the children are eating. All of the conditions in this Paragraph shall apply except when emergencies necessitate that adequate supervision is impossible. Documentation of emergencies shall be maintained and available for review by Division representatives upon request. - Children must be accompanied by a teacher when going to the restrooms. Restrooms are located in the hallway. Teachers standing in classroom doorways to supervise children does not meet the requirements in the rule. Staff should be able to render immediate assistance if necessary. If children need to use the restroom while on the playground one (1) teacher must take enough children inside with them to maintain ratio with one (1) teacher and to adequately supervise children at the restroom. I recommend taking all children to the restroom prior to going outside. Thank you for your time today. Please contact me at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648 with questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1003 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0625-130L Visit Date: 6/24/2025 Number Present: 135 Completed Date: 6/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 170 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 12:50 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 obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The concerns were related to unapproved space, staff/child ratio, and safe environment. The following was discussed with Ms. Kimberly Doster, Director: It was reported that the center flooded overnight on 6/12/25 and each room had water on the floor specifically in the room for two-year-old children. Children slept in the hallway at naptime. I interviewed three (3) staff members and completed a walkthrough of the facility with Ms. Doster. The following was explained: The facility had water enter classrooms overnight on 6/12/25 after heavy rains. When opening staff arrived at the center on 6/13/25 they observed standing water and mud/sand in three (3) classrooms. Water and dirt were observed approximately two (2) to three (3) feet from the door inside Spaces 4, 5b, and 5a. The teachers wiped the water up with towels and removed rugs that were soaked with water. They closed off activity areas near the exit door and did not allow children to play where the floor was still dirty. Children were not moved but remained in their assigned rooms until naptime. During naptime seventeen (17) children were placed on cots in the hallway. There were six (6) one-year-old children present and eleven (11) two-year-olds napping in the hallway with two (2) teachers supervising. They moved the children to the hallway because the crew arrived to the center to clean floors and carpets. Children could not be inside the rooms while being cleaned. Based on interviews the concern regarding unapproved space was confirmed. Children may only be cared for in spaces approved by building, fire, and environmental health standards. Based on interviews and observations the concern regarding staff/child ratio was confirmed. Seventeen (17) children aged 1 year to 2 years old were present with two (2) teachers while napping in the hallway. The number was confirmed by reviewing the head count sheets from 6/13/25. The maximum group size for 1 year old children is twelve (12) children. Based on interviews and observations the concern regarding safe environment was unconfirmed. Children were resting on cots and there were no hazards reported or observed in the hallway where children slept. Children were not allowed to play in areas of the classroom affected by the water and were removed from the spaces when contracted workers arrived to clean the floors and rugs. During the walkthrough I observed children playing outside and participating in large group activities indoors. A bounce house was onsite today for a special summer camp activity. Teachers were observed standing at the entrance and at the exit of the bounce house monitoring the number of children allowed inside at one (1) time. I did not observe an age range listed on the outside of the bounce house. Ms. Doster stated twenty-two (22) school aged children were participating in a field trip today to the movies and park. A roster of children was not onsite. I observed permission forms completed. Two (2) violations related to the complaint and one (1) violation unrelated to the complaint were cited today. Violation Number Comment Rule 209 Children used space that was not approved. The hallway was used for rest time for seventeen (17) children aged 1 and 2 years old on 6/13/25. GS 110-91(1)&(4-5) 1127 For routine transport of children to and from the center, staff did not have a list of the children being transported. Twenty-two (22) school-age children were offsite participating in a field trip. The roster of children present on the field trip was not onsite. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(l) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Seventeen (17) children aged 1 and 2 years old were grouped in the hallway for rest time. The maximum group size for 1 year old children is twelve (12). 10A NCAC 09 .2818 Corrective Action: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Tuesday, July 8, 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. Email the information to jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov. and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance/General Comments: - It is recommended to close classrooms for care if children cannot be disbursed to other classrooms when rooms are unable to be used due to maintenance issues. Children must be cared for in approved spaces. In addition to hallways, children may not be cared for in offices or foyers. - Ratio and maximum group size must always be maintained for the youngest child present. - We discussed the Child Care Weather Watch chart and I reminded Ms. Doster that the heat index should be considered when determining how long or if children could play outdoors, not the air temperature. I recommended checking temperatures multiple times per day to determine outdoor safety. I recommended adjusting outdoor schedules to be outside early in the morning and later in the afternoon. - The facility’s total capacity is 132. There were 135 children signed in today but twenty-two (22) were offsite participating in a field trip. Ms. Doster stated school-age children left at 9:00 am and would return at 4:00 pm. Permission forms indicated that as well. There may only be a maximum of 132 children present on site. The facility should create alternative plans for when field trips are rained out to accommodate the school-age children to avoid being over center capacity. Thank you for your time today. Please contact me at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648 with questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0625-130L Visit Date: 6/24/2025 Number Present: 135 Completed Date: 6/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 170 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 12:50 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 obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The concerns were related to unapproved space, staff/child ratio, and safe environment. The following was discussed with Ms. Kimberly Doster, Director: It was reported that the center flooded overnight on 6/12/25 and each room had water on the floor specifically in the room for two-year-old children. Children slept in the hallway at naptime. I interviewed three (3) staff members and completed a walkthrough of the facility with Ms. Doster. The following was explained: The facility had water enter classrooms overnight on 6/12/25 after heavy rains. When opening staff arrived at the center on 6/13/25 they observed standing water and mud/sand in three (3) classrooms. Water and dirt were observed approximately two (2) to three (3) feet from the door inside Spaces 4, 5b, and 5a. The teachers wiped the water up with towels and removed rugs that were soaked with water. They closed off activity areas near the exit door and did not allow children to play where the floor was still dirty. Children were not moved but remained in their assigned rooms until naptime. During naptime seventeen (17) children were placed on cots in the hallway. There were six (6) one-year-old children present and eleven (11) two-year-olds napping in the hallway with two (2) teachers supervising. They moved the children to the hallway because the crew arrived to the center to clean floors and carpets. Children could not be inside the rooms while being cleaned. Based on interviews the concern regarding unapproved space was confirmed. Children may only be cared for in spaces approved by building, fire, and environmental health standards. Based on interviews and observations the concern regarding staff/child ratio was confirmed. Seventeen (17) children aged 1 year to 2 years old were present with two (2) teachers while napping in the hallway. The number was confirmed by reviewing the head count sheets from 6/13/25. The maximum group size for 1 year old children is twelve (12) children. Based on interviews and observations the concern regarding safe environment was unconfirmed. Children were resting on cots and there were no hazards reported or observed in the hallway where children slept. Children were not allowed to play in areas of the classroom affected by the water and were removed from the spaces when contracted workers arrived to clean the floors and rugs. During the walkthrough I observed children playing outside and participating in large group activities indoors. A bounce house was onsite today for a special summer camp activity. Teachers were observed standing at the entrance and at the exit of the bounce house monitoring the number of children allowed inside at one (1) time. I did not observe an age range listed on the outside of the bounce house. Ms. Doster stated twenty-two (22) school aged children were participating in a field trip today to the movies and park. A roster of children was not onsite. I observed permission forms completed. Two (2) violations related to the complaint and one (1) violation unrelated to the complaint were cited today. Violation Number Comment Rule 209 Children used space that was not approved. The hallway was used for rest time for seventeen (17) children aged 1 and 2 years old on 6/13/25. GS 110-91(1)&(4-5) 1127 For routine transport of children to and from the center, staff did not have a list of the children being transported. Twenty-two (22) school-age children were offsite participating in a field trip. The roster of children present on the field trip was not onsite. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(l) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Seventeen (17) children aged 1 and 2 years old were grouped in the hallway for rest time. The maximum group size for 1 year old children is twelve (12). 10A NCAC 09 .2818 Corrective Action: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Tuesday, July 8, 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. Email the information to jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov. and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance/General Comments: - It is recommended to close classrooms for care if children cannot be disbursed to other classrooms when rooms are unable to be used due to maintenance issues. Children must be cared for in approved spaces. In addition to hallways, children may not be cared for in offices or foyers. - Ratio and maximum group size must always be maintained for the youngest child present. - We discussed the Child Care Weather Watch chart and I reminded Ms. Doster that the heat index should be considered when determining how long or if children could play outdoors, not the air temperature. I recommended checking temperatures multiple times per day to determine outdoor safety. I recommended adjusting outdoor schedules to be outside early in the morning and later in the afternoon. - The facility’s total capacity is 132. There were 135 children signed in today but twenty-two (22) were offsite participating in a field trip. Ms. Doster stated school-age children left at 9:00 am and would return at 4:00 pm. Permission forms indicated that as well. There may only be a maximum of 132 children present on site. The facility should create alternative plans for when field trips are rained out to accommodate the school-age children to avoid being over center capacity. Thank you for your time today. Please contact me at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648 with questions or concerns. 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 CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0625-130L Visit Date: 6/24/2025 Number Present: 135 Completed Date: 6/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 170 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 12:50 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 obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The concerns were related to unapproved space, staff/child ratio, and safe environment. The following was discussed with Ms. Kimberly Doster, Director: It was reported that the center flooded overnight on 6/12/25 and each room had water on the floor specifically in the room for two-year-old children. Children slept in the hallway at naptime. I interviewed three (3) staff members and completed a walkthrough of the facility with Ms. Doster. The following was explained: The facility had water enter classrooms overnight on 6/12/25 after heavy rains. When opening staff arrived at the center on 6/13/25 they observed standing water and mud/sand in three (3) classrooms. Water and dirt were observed approximately two (2) to three (3) feet from the door inside Spaces 4, 5b, and 5a. The teachers wiped the water up with towels and removed rugs that were soaked with water. They closed off activity areas near the exit door and did not allow children to play where the floor was still dirty. Children were not moved but remained in their assigned rooms until naptime. During naptime seventeen (17) children were placed on cots in the hallway. There were six (6) one-year-old children present and eleven (11) two-year-olds napping in the hallway with two (2) teachers supervising. They moved the children to the hallway because the crew arrived to the center to clean floors and carpets. Children could not be inside the rooms while being cleaned. Based on interviews the concern regarding unapproved space was confirmed. Children may only be cared for in spaces approved by building, fire, and environmental health standards. Based on interviews and observations the concern regarding staff/child ratio was confirmed. Seventeen (17) children aged 1 year to 2 years old were present with two (2) teachers while napping in the hallway. The number was confirmed by reviewing the head count sheets from 6/13/25. The maximum group size for 1 year old children is twelve (12) children. Based on interviews and observations the concern regarding safe environment was unconfirmed. Children were resting on cots and there were no hazards reported or observed in the hallway where children slept. Children were not allowed to play in areas of the classroom affected by the water and were removed from the spaces when contracted workers arrived to clean the floors and rugs. During the walkthrough I observed children playing outside and participating in large group activities indoors. A bounce house was onsite today for a special summer camp activity. Teachers were observed standing at the entrance and at the exit of the bounce house monitoring the number of children allowed inside at one (1) time. I did not observe an age range listed on the outside of the bounce house. Ms. Doster stated twenty-two (22) school aged children were participating in a field trip today to the movies and park. A roster of children was not onsite. I observed permission forms completed. Two (2) violations related to the complaint and one (1) violation unrelated to the complaint were cited today. Violation Number Comment Rule 209 Children used space that was not approved. The hallway was used for rest time for seventeen (17) children aged 1 and 2 years old on 6/13/25. GS 110-91(1)&(4-5) 1127 For routine transport of children to and from the center, staff did not have a list of the children being transported. Twenty-two (22) school-age children were offsite participating in a field trip. The roster of children present on the field trip was not onsite. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(l) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Seventeen (17) children aged 1 and 2 years old were grouped in the hallway for rest time. The maximum group size for 1 year old children is twelve (12). 10A NCAC 09 .2818 Corrective Action: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Tuesday, July 8, 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. Email the information to jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov. and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance/General Comments: - It is recommended to close classrooms for care if children cannot be disbursed to other classrooms when rooms are unable to be used due to maintenance issues. Children must be cared for in approved spaces. In addition to hallways, children may not be cared for in offices or foyers. - Ratio and maximum group size must always be maintained for the youngest child present. - We discussed the Child Care Weather Watch chart and I reminded Ms. Doster that the heat index should be considered when determining how long or if children could play outdoors, not the air temperature. I recommended checking temperatures multiple times per day to determine outdoor safety. I recommended adjusting outdoor schedules to be outside early in the morning and later in the afternoon. - The facility’s total capacity is 132. There were 135 children signed in today but twenty-two (22) were offsite participating in a field trip. Ms. Doster stated school-age children left at 9:00 am and would return at 4:00 pm. Permission forms indicated that as well. There may only be a maximum of 132 children present on site. The facility should create alternative plans for when field trips are rained out to accommodate the school-age children to avoid being over center capacity. Thank you for your time today. Please contact me at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648 with questions or concerns. 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 CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0625-130L Visit Date: 6/24/2025 Number Present: 135 Completed Date: 6/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 11 Total Minutes: 170 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 12:50 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 obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The concerns were related to unapproved space, staff/child ratio, and safe environment. The following was discussed with Ms. Kimberly Doster, Director: It was reported that the center flooded overnight on 6/12/25 and each room had water on the floor specifically in the room for two-year-old children. Children slept in the hallway at naptime. I interviewed three (3) staff members and completed a walkthrough of the facility with Ms. Doster. The following was explained: The facility had water enter classrooms overnight on 6/12/25 after heavy rains. When opening staff arrived at the center on 6/13/25 they observed standing water and mud/sand in three (3) classrooms. Water and dirt were observed approximately two (2) to three (3) feet from the door inside Spaces 4, 5b, and 5a. The teachers wiped the water up with towels and removed rugs that were soaked with water. They closed off activity areas near the exit door and did not allow children to play where the floor was still dirty. Children were not moved but remained in their assigned rooms until naptime. During naptime seventeen (17) children were placed on cots in the hallway. There were six (6) one-year-old children present and eleven (11) two-year-olds napping in the hallway with two (2) teachers supervising. They moved the children to the hallway because the crew arrived to the center to clean floors and carpets. Children could not be inside the rooms while being cleaned. Based on interviews the concern regarding unapproved space was confirmed. Children may only be cared for in spaces approved by building, fire, and environmental health standards. Based on interviews and observations the concern regarding staff/child ratio was confirmed. Seventeen (17) children aged 1 year to 2 years old were present with two (2) teachers while napping in the hallway. The number was confirmed by reviewing the head count sheets from 6/13/25. The maximum group size for 1 year old children is twelve (12) children. Based on interviews and observations the concern regarding safe environment was unconfirmed. Children were resting on cots and there were no hazards reported or observed in the hallway where children slept. Children were not allowed to play in areas of the classroom affected by the water and were removed from the spaces when contracted workers arrived to clean the floors and rugs. During the walkthrough I observed children playing outside and participating in large group activities indoors. A bounce house was onsite today for a special summer camp activity. Teachers were observed standing at the entrance and at the exit of the bounce house monitoring the number of children allowed inside at one (1) time. I did not observe an age range listed on the outside of the bounce house. Ms. Doster stated twenty-two (22) school aged children were participating in a field trip today to the movies and park. A roster of children was not onsite. I observed permission forms completed. Two (2) violations related to the complaint and one (1) violation unrelated to the complaint were cited today. Violation Number Comment Rule 209 Children used space that was not approved. The hallway was used for rest time for seventeen (17) children aged 1 and 2 years old on 6/13/25. GS 110-91(1)&(4-5) 1127 For routine transport of children to and from the center, staff did not have a list of the children being transported. Twenty-two (22) school-age children were offsite participating in a field trip. The roster of children present on the field trip was not onsite. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(l) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. Seventeen (17) children aged 1 and 2 years old were grouped in the hallway for rest time. The maximum group size for 1 year old children is twelve (12). 10A NCAC 09 .2818 Corrective Action: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Tuesday, July 8, 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. Email the information to jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov. and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance/General Comments: - It is recommended to close classrooms for care if children cannot be disbursed to other classrooms when rooms are unable to be used due to maintenance issues. Children must be cared for in approved spaces. In addition to hallways, children may not be cared for in offices or foyers. - Ratio and maximum group size must always be maintained for the youngest child present. - We discussed the Child Care Weather Watch chart and I reminded Ms. Doster that the heat index should be considered when determining how long or if children could play outdoors, not the air temperature. I recommended checking temperatures multiple times per day to determine outdoor safety. I recommended adjusting outdoor schedules to be outside early in the morning and later in the afternoon. - The facility’s total capacity is 132. There were 135 children signed in today but twenty-two (22) were offsite participating in a field trip. Ms. Doster stated school-age children left at 9:00 am and would return at 4:00 pm. Permission forms indicated that as well. There may only be a maximum of 132 children present on site. The facility should create alternative plans for when field trips are rained out to accommodate the school-age children to avoid being over center capacity. Thank you for your time today. Please contact me at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648 with questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1003 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/31/2025 Number Present: 105 Completed Date: 3/31/2025 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 258 Time In: 10:12 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor applicable child care rules and laws during a routine unannounced visit. The facility currently operated with a Five Star Rated License issued September 13, 2024. The facility is NAEYC Accredited. The facility had an eighteen month compliance history of 81% prior to today’s visit. The license and NC child care law summary were posted. The following was monitored using the November 2024 Master Center Item Number Listing: supervision, capacity, staff/child ratios, adequate and approved space, criminal background checks, CPR, First Aid, special training, new staff records, storage of hazardous products, and storage of medication. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. Jodie Tinker, Cook, and I explained the purpose of my visit. She stated Ms. Kimberly Doster, Director, was in Space 6 today due to staff absences. I walked to Space 6 where I met Ms. Doster and explained the purpose of the visit. She stated two (2) new employees were present today observing classroom procedures. The two (2) new employees were present in Space 5a and Space 5b. I observed school-aged children outside of Space 6. Ms. Doster stated Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) had a teacher workday today and school-aged children were present all day. She stated they were preparing to leave for a field trip. I monitored permission forms and transportation requirements. Twelve (12) children did not have emergency identifying information attached to their emergency information. Three (3) children who were routinely transported had emergency identifying information attached to their emergency information. Two (2) buses were used to transport children today. I monitored unaccompanied. Preschool aged children were observed participating in large group indoor activities, preparing for lunch, and playing outdoors. Preschool classrooms were observed organized and with adequate amounts of materials that were observed in good repair. Lesson plans were posted and current. Arrival and departure times were documented as required. Infants were observed playing on the floor with two (2) teachers. Teachers were engaged and provided age-appropriate care and a nurturing environment. One (1) infant was observed sleeping. Safe sleep checks were documented and maintained as required. Bottles were observed dated and labeled. Toddlers were observed on the playground as well as preparing for lunch. Teachers were observed assisting with personal care needs and diapering. When I arrived to Space 5b I observed seven (7) children present with one (1) teacher. She stated the youngest child present was one (1) year of age. She stated today was the child’s first day in the classroom. The teacher aide was supervising three (3) children in the hall bathroom. Space 5b was out of ratio with a one (1) year old child present. Space 5a for toddlers had ten (10) one year old children present. The maximum group size listed on the staff/child ratio form indicated six (6) children. Ms. Doster stated she thought the room was measured for a maximum group size of ten (10) children but she had kept the maximum group size at six (6) during the last couple of visits from DCDEE. I could not find the space calculations for Space 5a in the working file, so I measured the space again today and confirmed the maximum number of children allowed in the space was ten (10). A copy of the space calculations sheet was left with the visit summary. While monitoring Space 5a I observed ten (10) one year olds sitting at tables eating lunch. One (1) teacher walked out of Space 5a into Space 5b leaving one (1) teacher supervising children. Spaces 5a and 5b are separated by a half wall. I reviewed with the teachers that even though it was a half wall it was still considered two (2) separate spaces and ratio had to be maintained at all times. The teacher left the space to get spoons for the children. I recommend keeping utensils in the classroom and rolling the cart of food into the space to maintain compliance with staff/child ratio. All required documents were observed current and posted. Emergency medications were monitored. One (1) child required ER medication. The medical action plan (MAP) was completed in August 2024. A separate medication permission form was not completed. It was explained that the facility used the MAP as the permission. I reviewed the medication permission requirements reminding staff that permissions were valid 6 months and MAP’s were valid 12 months. Three (3) new staffs file were reviewed. One (1) employee hired 3/22/25 did not have a CBC qualification letter on file. I reviewed her information in the ABCMS portal and her qualification was “in process.” She had never received a previous qualification. She left the facility and may not return until a valid qualification is received. The individual was observed counted in staff/child ratio and was observed supervising children alone today. The completed staff/training worksheet was reviewed. All staff had current First Aid/CPR and specialized training. Five (5) violations of child care requirements were observed and documented today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. An employee, O. Haselton, hired 3/22/25 did not have a completed CBC check prior to employment. The individual's background check indicated "in process" in the ABCMS system. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Twelve (12) of the fifteen (15) school-age children did not have emergency identifying information attached to their emergency contact information. The children were observed preparing to leave for a field trip. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. One (1) teacher was observed supervising seven (7) children in Space 5b. The youngest child present was one (1) year of age. One (1) teacher in Space 5a left the classroom to retrieve spoons for lunch from Space 5b. There was only one (1) teacher in Space 5a supervising ten (10) children one year of age. Space 5a and Space 5b were separated by a half wall. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. An employee, O. Haselton, hired 3/22/25 did not have a valid qualification letter on file for review. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. One (1) child with emergency medication had an expired medication permission form on file. The permission was signed 8/2024. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Corrective Action: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Monday, April 14, 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: Jennifer Stansfield, Child Care Consultant PO Box 1967 Huntersville, NC 28078 Jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Another unannounced visit will be required in the next two (2) weeks to verify compliance with staff/child ratio and CBC qualification requirements. Technical Assistance/General Comments: Criminal Background Portal/ABCMS: North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. To get started, complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training in Moodle—a video tutorial followed by a few questions. Technical Assistance/General Comments: - Medical Action Plans may be completed by the physician or the parent and are valid for 12 months. Medication permission forms are valid for 6 months. I recommend using the medication permission form on the DCDEE website. The form states valid for 6 months. I also recommend posting in the classroom the expiration dates of the MAP, medication permission form, and medication for easy reference. - I encourage staff to review the staff/child ratio form posted in the classroom to ensure ratios are followed for the youngest child present. I recommend taking enough children to the restrooms located in the hallway to maintain ratio with one (1) teacher. For example during today’s visit a teacher took three (3) children to restroom leaving one (1) teacher with seven (7) children. The ratio for one year olds is 1:6. The teacher should have taken four (4) children to the hallway restroom to maintain ratio in the classroom. - When a child receives medical treatment for an injury that occurs onsite the completed incident report should be sent the consultant within seven (7) calendar days. - Emergency identifying information should be attached to emergency contact information when transporting children. The identifying information is important if the driver is unable to communicate with first responders if an accident occurred during transport who each child is and who to call. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ Thank you for your time today. Please contact me with any questions at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/31/2025 Number Present: 105 Completed Date: 3/31/2025 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 258 Time In: 10:12 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor applicable child care rules and laws during a routine unannounced visit. The facility currently operated with a Five Star Rated License issued September 13, 2024. The facility is NAEYC Accredited. The facility had an eighteen month compliance history of 81% prior to today’s visit. The license and NC child care law summary were posted. The following was monitored using the November 2024 Master Center Item Number Listing: supervision, capacity, staff/child ratios, adequate and approved space, criminal background checks, CPR, First Aid, special training, new staff records, storage of hazardous products, and storage of medication. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. Jodie Tinker, Cook, and I explained the purpose of my visit. She stated Ms. Kimberly Doster, Director, was in Space 6 today due to staff absences. I walked to Space 6 where I met Ms. Doster and explained the purpose of the visit. She stated two (2) new employees were present today observing classroom procedures. The two (2) new employees were present in Space 5a and Space 5b. I observed school-aged children outside of Space 6. Ms. Doster stated Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) had a teacher workday today and school-aged children were present all day. She stated they were preparing to leave for a field trip. I monitored permission forms and transportation requirements. Twelve (12) children did not have emergency identifying information attached to their emergency information. Three (3) children who were routinely transported had emergency identifying information attached to their emergency information. Two (2) buses were used to transport children today. I monitored unaccompanied. Preschool aged children were observed participating in large group indoor activities, preparing for lunch, and playing outdoors. Preschool classrooms were observed organized and with adequate amounts of materials that were observed in good repair. Lesson plans were posted and current. Arrival and departure times were documented as required. Infants were observed playing on the floor with two (2) teachers. Teachers were engaged and provided age-appropriate care and a nurturing environment. One (1) infant was observed sleeping. Safe sleep checks were documented and maintained as required. Bottles were observed dated and labeled. Toddlers were observed on the playground as well as preparing for lunch. Teachers were observed assisting with personal care needs and diapering. When I arrived to Space 5b I observed seven (7) children present with one (1) teacher. She stated the youngest child present was one (1) year of age. She stated today was the child’s first day in the classroom. The teacher aide was supervising three (3) children in the hall bathroom. Space 5b was out of ratio with a one (1) year old child present. Space 5a for toddlers had ten (10) one year old children present. The maximum group size listed on the staff/child ratio form indicated six (6) children. Ms. Doster stated she thought the room was measured for a maximum group size of ten (10) children but she had kept the maximum group size at six (6) during the last couple of visits from DCDEE. I could not find the space calculations for Space 5a in the working file, so I measured the space again today and confirmed the maximum number of children allowed in the space was ten (10). A copy of the space calculations sheet was left with the visit summary. While monitoring Space 5a I observed ten (10) one year olds sitting at tables eating lunch. One (1) teacher walked out of Space 5a into Space 5b leaving one (1) teacher supervising children. Spaces 5a and 5b are separated by a half wall. I reviewed with the teachers that even though it was a half wall it was still considered two (2) separate spaces and ratio had to be maintained at all times. The teacher left the space to get spoons for the children. I recommend keeping utensils in the classroom and rolling the cart of food into the space to maintain compliance with staff/child ratio. All required documents were observed current and posted. Emergency medications were monitored. One (1) child required ER medication. The medical action plan (MAP) was completed in August 2024. A separate medication permission form was not completed. It was explained that the facility used the MAP as the permission. I reviewed the medication permission requirements reminding staff that permissions were valid 6 months and MAP’s were valid 12 months. Three (3) new staffs file were reviewed. One (1) employee hired 3/22/25 did not have a CBC qualification letter on file. I reviewed her information in the ABCMS portal and her qualification was “in process.” She had never received a previous qualification. She left the facility and may not return until a valid qualification is received. The individual was observed counted in staff/child ratio and was observed supervising children alone today. The completed staff/training worksheet was reviewed. All staff had current First Aid/CPR and specialized training. Five (5) violations of child care requirements were observed and documented today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. An employee, O. Haselton, hired 3/22/25 did not have a completed CBC check prior to employment. The individual's background check indicated "in process" in the ABCMS system. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Twelve (12) of the fifteen (15) school-age children did not have emergency identifying information attached to their emergency contact information. The children were observed preparing to leave for a field trip. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. One (1) teacher was observed supervising seven (7) children in Space 5b. The youngest child present was one (1) year of age. One (1) teacher in Space 5a left the classroom to retrieve spoons for lunch from Space 5b. There was only one (1) teacher in Space 5a supervising ten (10) children one year of age. Space 5a and Space 5b were separated by a half wall. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. An employee, O. Haselton, hired 3/22/25 did not have a valid qualification letter on file for review. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. One (1) child with emergency medication had an expired medication permission form on file. The permission was signed 8/2024. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Corrective Action: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Monday, April 14, 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: Jennifer Stansfield, Child Care Consultant PO Box 1967 Huntersville, NC 28078 Jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Another unannounced visit will be required in the next two (2) weeks to verify compliance with staff/child ratio and CBC qualification requirements. Technical Assistance/General Comments: Criminal Background Portal/ABCMS: North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. To get started, complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training in Moodle—a video tutorial followed by a few questions. Technical Assistance/General Comments: - Medical Action Plans may be completed by the physician or the parent and are valid for 12 months. Medication permission forms are valid for 6 months. I recommend using the medication permission form on the DCDEE website. The form states valid for 6 months. I also recommend posting in the classroom the expiration dates of the MAP, medication permission form, and medication for easy reference. - I encourage staff to review the staff/child ratio form posted in the classroom to ensure ratios are followed for the youngest child present. I recommend taking enough children to the restrooms located in the hallway to maintain ratio with one (1) teacher. For example during today’s visit a teacher took three (3) children to restroom leaving one (1) teacher with seven (7) children. The ratio for one year olds is 1:6. The teacher should have taken four (4) children to the hallway restroom to maintain ratio in the classroom. - When a child receives medical treatment for an injury that occurs onsite the completed incident report should be sent the consultant within seven (7) calendar days. - Emergency identifying information should be attached to emergency contact information when transporting children. The identifying information is important if the driver is unable to communicate with first responders if an accident occurred during transport who each child is and who to call. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ Thank you for your time today. Please contact me with any questions at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/31/2025 Number Present: 105 Completed Date: 3/31/2025 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 258 Time In: 10:12 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor applicable child care rules and laws during a routine unannounced visit. The facility currently operated with a Five Star Rated License issued September 13, 2024. The facility is NAEYC Accredited. The facility had an eighteen month compliance history of 81% prior to today’s visit. The license and NC child care law summary were posted. The following was monitored using the November 2024 Master Center Item Number Listing: supervision, capacity, staff/child ratios, adequate and approved space, criminal background checks, CPR, First Aid, special training, new staff records, storage of hazardous products, and storage of medication. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. Jodie Tinker, Cook, and I explained the purpose of my visit. She stated Ms. Kimberly Doster, Director, was in Space 6 today due to staff absences. I walked to Space 6 where I met Ms. Doster and explained the purpose of the visit. She stated two (2) new employees were present today observing classroom procedures. The two (2) new employees were present in Space 5a and Space 5b. I observed school-aged children outside of Space 6. Ms. Doster stated Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) had a teacher workday today and school-aged children were present all day. She stated they were preparing to leave for a field trip. I monitored permission forms and transportation requirements. Twelve (12) children did not have emergency identifying information attached to their emergency information. Three (3) children who were routinely transported had emergency identifying information attached to their emergency information. Two (2) buses were used to transport children today. I monitored unaccompanied. Preschool aged children were observed participating in large group indoor activities, preparing for lunch, and playing outdoors. Preschool classrooms were observed organized and with adequate amounts of materials that were observed in good repair. Lesson plans were posted and current. Arrival and departure times were documented as required. Infants were observed playing on the floor with two (2) teachers. Teachers were engaged and provided age-appropriate care and a nurturing environment. One (1) infant was observed sleeping. Safe sleep checks were documented and maintained as required. Bottles were observed dated and labeled. Toddlers were observed on the playground as well as preparing for lunch. Teachers were observed assisting with personal care needs and diapering. When I arrived to Space 5b I observed seven (7) children present with one (1) teacher. She stated the youngest child present was one (1) year of age. She stated today was the child’s first day in the classroom. The teacher aide was supervising three (3) children in the hall bathroom. Space 5b was out of ratio with a one (1) year old child present. Space 5a for toddlers had ten (10) one year old children present. The maximum group size listed on the staff/child ratio form indicated six (6) children. Ms. Doster stated she thought the room was measured for a maximum group size of ten (10) children but she had kept the maximum group size at six (6) during the last couple of visits from DCDEE. I could not find the space calculations for Space 5a in the working file, so I measured the space again today and confirmed the maximum number of children allowed in the space was ten (10). A copy of the space calculations sheet was left with the visit summary. While monitoring Space 5a I observed ten (10) one year olds sitting at tables eating lunch. One (1) teacher walked out of Space 5a into Space 5b leaving one (1) teacher supervising children. Spaces 5a and 5b are separated by a half wall. I reviewed with the teachers that even though it was a half wall it was still considered two (2) separate spaces and ratio had to be maintained at all times. The teacher left the space to get spoons for the children. I recommend keeping utensils in the classroom and rolling the cart of food into the space to maintain compliance with staff/child ratio. All required documents were observed current and posted. Emergency medications were monitored. One (1) child required ER medication. The medical action plan (MAP) was completed in August 2024. A separate medication permission form was not completed. It was explained that the facility used the MAP as the permission. I reviewed the medication permission requirements reminding staff that permissions were valid 6 months and MAP’s were valid 12 months. Three (3) new staffs file were reviewed. One (1) employee hired 3/22/25 did not have a CBC qualification letter on file. I reviewed her information in the ABCMS portal and her qualification was “in process.” She had never received a previous qualification. She left the facility and may not return until a valid qualification is received. The individual was observed counted in staff/child ratio and was observed supervising children alone today. The completed staff/training worksheet was reviewed. All staff had current First Aid/CPR and specialized training. Five (5) violations of child care requirements were observed and documented today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. An employee, O. Haselton, hired 3/22/25 did not have a completed CBC check prior to employment. The individual's background check indicated "in process" in the ABCMS system. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Twelve (12) of the fifteen (15) school-age children did not have emergency identifying information attached to their emergency contact information. The children were observed preparing to leave for a field trip. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. One (1) teacher was observed supervising seven (7) children in Space 5b. The youngest child present was one (1) year of age. One (1) teacher in Space 5a left the classroom to retrieve spoons for lunch from Space 5b. There was only one (1) teacher in Space 5a supervising ten (10) children one year of age. Space 5a and Space 5b were separated by a half wall. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. An employee, O. Haselton, hired 3/22/25 did not have a valid qualification letter on file for review. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. One (1) child with emergency medication had an expired medication permission form on file. The permission was signed 8/2024. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Corrective Action: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Monday, April 14, 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: Jennifer Stansfield, Child Care Consultant PO Box 1967 Huntersville, NC 28078 Jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Another unannounced visit will be required in the next two (2) weeks to verify compliance with staff/child ratio and CBC qualification requirements. Technical Assistance/General Comments: Criminal Background Portal/ABCMS: North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. To get started, complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training in Moodle—a video tutorial followed by a few questions. Technical Assistance/General Comments: - Medical Action Plans may be completed by the physician or the parent and are valid for 12 months. Medication permission forms are valid for 6 months. I recommend using the medication permission form on the DCDEE website. The form states valid for 6 months. I also recommend posting in the classroom the expiration dates of the MAP, medication permission form, and medication for easy reference. - I encourage staff to review the staff/child ratio form posted in the classroom to ensure ratios are followed for the youngest child present. I recommend taking enough children to the restrooms located in the hallway to maintain ratio with one (1) teacher. For example during today’s visit a teacher took three (3) children to restroom leaving one (1) teacher with seven (7) children. The ratio for one year olds is 1:6. The teacher should have taken four (4) children to the hallway restroom to maintain ratio in the classroom. - When a child receives medical treatment for an injury that occurs onsite the completed incident report should be sent the consultant within seven (7) calendar days. - Emergency identifying information should be attached to emergency contact information when transporting children. The identifying information is important if the driver is unable to communicate with first responders if an accident occurred during transport who each child is and who to call. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ Thank you for your time today. Please contact me with any questions at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648. 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 CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/31/2025 Number Present: 105 Completed Date: 3/31/2025 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 258 Time In: 10:12 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor applicable child care rules and laws during a routine unannounced visit. The facility currently operated with a Five Star Rated License issued September 13, 2024. The facility is NAEYC Accredited. The facility had an eighteen month compliance history of 81% prior to today’s visit. The license and NC child care law summary were posted. The following was monitored using the November 2024 Master Center Item Number Listing: supervision, capacity, staff/child ratios, adequate and approved space, criminal background checks, CPR, First Aid, special training, new staff records, storage of hazardous products, and storage of medication. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. Jodie Tinker, Cook, and I explained the purpose of my visit. She stated Ms. Kimberly Doster, Director, was in Space 6 today due to staff absences. I walked to Space 6 where I met Ms. Doster and explained the purpose of the visit. She stated two (2) new employees were present today observing classroom procedures. The two (2) new employees were present in Space 5a and Space 5b. I observed school-aged children outside of Space 6. Ms. Doster stated Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) had a teacher workday today and school-aged children were present all day. She stated they were preparing to leave for a field trip. I monitored permission forms and transportation requirements. Twelve (12) children did not have emergency identifying information attached to their emergency information. Three (3) children who were routinely transported had emergency identifying information attached to their emergency information. Two (2) buses were used to transport children today. I monitored unaccompanied. Preschool aged children were observed participating in large group indoor activities, preparing for lunch, and playing outdoors. Preschool classrooms were observed organized and with adequate amounts of materials that were observed in good repair. Lesson plans were posted and current. Arrival and departure times were documented as required. Infants were observed playing on the floor with two (2) teachers. Teachers were engaged and provided age-appropriate care and a nurturing environment. One (1) infant was observed sleeping. Safe sleep checks were documented and maintained as required. Bottles were observed dated and labeled. Toddlers were observed on the playground as well as preparing for lunch. Teachers were observed assisting with personal care needs and diapering. When I arrived to Space 5b I observed seven (7) children present with one (1) teacher. She stated the youngest child present was one (1) year of age. She stated today was the child’s first day in the classroom. The teacher aide was supervising three (3) children in the hall bathroom. Space 5b was out of ratio with a one (1) year old child present. Space 5a for toddlers had ten (10) one year old children present. The maximum group size listed on the staff/child ratio form indicated six (6) children. Ms. Doster stated she thought the room was measured for a maximum group size of ten (10) children but she had kept the maximum group size at six (6) during the last couple of visits from DCDEE. I could not find the space calculations for Space 5a in the working file, so I measured the space again today and confirmed the maximum number of children allowed in the space was ten (10). A copy of the space calculations sheet was left with the visit summary. While monitoring Space 5a I observed ten (10) one year olds sitting at tables eating lunch. One (1) teacher walked out of Space 5a into Space 5b leaving one (1) teacher supervising children. Spaces 5a and 5b are separated by a half wall. I reviewed with the teachers that even though it was a half wall it was still considered two (2) separate spaces and ratio had to be maintained at all times. The teacher left the space to get spoons for the children. I recommend keeping utensils in the classroom and rolling the cart of food into the space to maintain compliance with staff/child ratio. All required documents were observed current and posted. Emergency medications were monitored. One (1) child required ER medication. The medical action plan (MAP) was completed in August 2024. A separate medication permission form was not completed. It was explained that the facility used the MAP as the permission. I reviewed the medication permission requirements reminding staff that permissions were valid 6 months and MAP’s were valid 12 months. Three (3) new staffs file were reviewed. One (1) employee hired 3/22/25 did not have a CBC qualification letter on file. I reviewed her information in the ABCMS portal and her qualification was “in process.” She had never received a previous qualification. She left the facility and may not return until a valid qualification is received. The individual was observed counted in staff/child ratio and was observed supervising children alone today. The completed staff/training worksheet was reviewed. All staff had current First Aid/CPR and specialized training. Five (5) violations of child care requirements were observed and documented today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. An employee, O. Haselton, hired 3/22/25 did not have a completed CBC check prior to employment. The individual's background check indicated "in process" in the ABCMS system. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Twelve (12) of the fifteen (15) school-age children did not have emergency identifying information attached to their emergency contact information. The children were observed preparing to leave for a field trip. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. One (1) teacher was observed supervising seven (7) children in Space 5b. The youngest child present was one (1) year of age. One (1) teacher in Space 5a left the classroom to retrieve spoons for lunch from Space 5b. There was only one (1) teacher in Space 5a supervising ten (10) children one year of age. Space 5a and Space 5b were separated by a half wall. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. An employee, O. Haselton, hired 3/22/25 did not have a valid qualification letter on file for review. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. One (1) child with emergency medication had an expired medication permission form on file. The permission was signed 8/2024. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) Corrective Action: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Monday, April 14, 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: Jennifer Stansfield, Child Care Consultant PO Box 1967 Huntersville, NC 28078 Jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Another unannounced visit will be required in the next two (2) weeks to verify compliance with staff/child ratio and CBC qualification requirements. Technical Assistance/General Comments: Criminal Background Portal/ABCMS: North Carolina child care administrators can now view and edit their facility’s staff roster in ABCMS, the DCDEE’s criminal background check system. Provider Access to ABCMS allows administrators to: • See the real-time background check status of staff members. • Run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. • See new background check applicants and add to staff roster. To get started, complete the ABCMS Child Care Provider Portal Training in Moodle—a video tutorial followed by a few questions. Technical Assistance/General Comments: - Medical Action Plans may be completed by the physician or the parent and are valid for 12 months. Medication permission forms are valid for 6 months. I recommend using the medication permission form on the DCDEE website. The form states valid for 6 months. I also recommend posting in the classroom the expiration dates of the MAP, medication permission form, and medication for easy reference. - I encourage staff to review the staff/child ratio form posted in the classroom to ensure ratios are followed for the youngest child present. I recommend taking enough children to the restrooms located in the hallway to maintain ratio with one (1) teacher. For example during today’s visit a teacher took three (3) children to restroom leaving one (1) teacher with seven (7) children. The ratio for one year olds is 1:6. The teacher should have taken four (4) children to the hallway restroom to maintain ratio in the classroom. - When a child receives medical treatment for an injury that occurs onsite the completed incident report should be sent the consultant within seven (7) calendar days. - Emergency identifying information should be attached to emergency contact information when transporting children. The identifying information is important if the driver is unable to communicate with first responders if an accident occurred during transport who each child is and who to call. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ Thank you for your time today. Please contact me with any questions at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 704-956-1648. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/4/2024 Number Present: 100 Completed Date: 9/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 360 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 04:00 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 the full Annual Compliance visit. The facility was currently operating with a Four Star License issued on April 4, 2022 and had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 94% prior to today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on September 13, 2023. The March 2024 Center Item Number Listing and March 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. The license and NC Summary of the Law were prominently posted. Upon arrival I was greeted by the cook and she stated Ms. Kimberly Doster, director, was not onsite today. Ms. M. Arbuckle, lead teacher, accompanied me on the walkthrough. Eight (8) classrooms were monitored today. Children were observed participating in a variety of activities to include independent play, large group time, and playing outdoors. Arrival times were documented as required. Teachers were observed engaged and actively supervising children. Each classroom met staff/child ratios. Infants were observed sleeping and being fed. Safe sleep checks were completed as required. Bottles were observed dated and labeled. Each child 15 months and younger had a posted feeding schedule. One (1) child in Space 2b did not have an updated feeding plan to indicate table foods. Topical creams were monitored and each had a current permission form. Classrooms were organized and had a variety of age appropriate materials. Schedules were posted and teachers were observed referencing the curriculum book. Playgrounds were monitored and met compliance. I observed preschool aged children riding bicycles on the paved portion of the playground. Ms. Arbuckle stated the bicycles were donated to the program. The bicycles were trainer bikes and did not have pedals. The warning label on the bike indicated to always use with properly fitted shoes and helmet. Children were not wearing helmets while using the bikes. Emergency medications were monitored and met requirements. It was reported in Space 8 for children four years of age that there were no cots for children to nap/rest on during rest time. I explained that each child was required to have an assigned cot and rest time should occur on the cot. It was reported that children participated in quiet activities during rest time. The kitchen was monitored. Lunch met nutrition requirements. Transportation requirements were monitored. Two (2) buses were monitored. The registration for one (1) bus expired in May 2024. During the visit it was discovered that bus was assigned to the wrong facility. It was reported the bus was used during summer and to pick children up for afterschool. The transportation permission forms indicated permission to transport for summer camp field trips. I explained that the forms needed to be updated to include where children were being transported to and from and the specific times of transport. Both buses had disinfectants stored on the floor and one (1) had bug spray stored on the floor. Both buses had trash on the floors and food was observed in several seats. Emergency identifying information was observed for each child and emergency contacts information was completed. A sampling of staff files were monitored including four (4) new employees. A sampling of children’s files were monitored. The facility had a statement signed by parents indicating emergency medical care (EMC) could be provided in the event of an emergency from the date of enrollment and throughout enrollment. I explained that emergency medical care information was required to be renewed annually. We discussed using pages 1 and 2 from the enrollment packet each year during reenrollment to satisfy the requirements for annual updates to EMC and emergency contact review. Fire Drill logs and emergency drills were completed as required. Playground inspections were completed as required. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 4/4/24 and received superior rating. The last fire inspection was conducted on 5/21/24. - The EPR plan was updated 7/3/24. Violation Number Comment Rule 542 The written feeding plan was not modified as the child's needs changed. One (1) child in Space 2b did not have an updated feeding plan to indicate table foods. 10 NCAC 09 .0902(a) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. N0 children in Space 8 had assigned cots. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The outdoor riding toys and stationary kitchen on the toddler playground were observed with mud and mildew. The arm of a plastic rocking chair was observed cracked and broken. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Children were observed using Strider bicycles today without helmets. The warning label on the bike indicated to always use with properly fitted shoes and helmet. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Both buses had disinfectants stored on the floor and one (1) had bug spray stored on the floor. .2820(b) 1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. The registration expired in May 2024 for Bus #19099. .1002(b) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. The permission to transport on file for all school age children did not indicate where the children were being transported to and from and the arrival/departure times were not accurate. .1003(i)(j) 1311 Emergency medical care information was not on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and/or was not updated as changes occurred or at least annually for each child. Six (6) children's updated emergency medical care information did not include (2) the responsible party's choice of health care professional. .0802(c) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. One (1) child did not have the date of enrollment listed on the discipline policy. .1804(b) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three (3) children did not have all of the required information addressed on the application. .0801(a)(1-7) Corrective Action: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Wednesday, September 18, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Stansfield, Child Care Consultant PO Box 1967 Huntersville, NC 28078 jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance/General Comments: Star Rated License Reassessment Update: SB 425 extended hold harmless until the new Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) is revised and implemented. Facilities are not required to proceed with the rated license assessment at this time unless they voluntarily choose to proceed. – QRIS update: Get ready for the 3s Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third edition. Information regarding the transition can be found by visiting https://ncrlap.org/Resources/pages/get-ready-for-3s. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://ncrlap.org/. for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Rule Clarification: 10A NCAC 09 .0802 EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE (c) Emergency medical care information shall be on file for each child. That information shall include: (1) the name, address, and telephone number of the parent or other person to be contacted in case of an emergency; (2) the responsible party's choice of health care professional; (3) any chronic illness and any medication taken for that illness; and (4) any other information that has a direct bearing on ensuring safe medical treatment for the child. This emergency medical care information shall be on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and shall be updated as changes occur and at least annually. 10A NCAC 09 .0608 PREVENTION OF SHAKEN BABY SYNDROME AND ABUSIVE HEAD TRAUMA (a) Each child care center licensed to care for children up to five years of age shall develop and adopt policies to prevent shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma prior to licensure. The policy shall include the following: (1) How to recognize, respond to, and report the signs and symptoms of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma. Signs and symptoms include: irritability, difficulty staying awake, difficulty breathing, inability to lift the head, seizures, lack of appetite, vomiting, and bruises; (2) Strategies to assist staff members in coping with a crying, fussing, or distraught child; (3) Strategies to assist staff members in understanding how to care for infants; (4) Strategies to ensure staff members understand the brain development of children up to five years of age; (5) A list of prohibited behaviors that shall include, but not be limited to, shaking a child, tossing a child into the air or into a crib, chair, or car seat, and pushing a child into walls, doors, and furniture; and (6) Resources to assist staff members and families in preventing shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma. (d) Within 30 days of adopting the policy, the child care center shall review the policy with existing staff members who provide care for children up to five years of age. Each child care center shall review the policy with new staff members prior to the individual providing care to children. The acknowledgement of this review shall contain: (1) the individual's name; (2) the date the center's policy was given and explained to the individual; (3) the individual's signature; and (4) the date the individual signed the acknowledgment. The child care center shall retain the acknowledgement in the staff member's file. Thank you for your time today. Contact me with questions or concerns at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov 0r 704-956-1648. 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 .0608 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/4/2024 Number Present: 100 Completed Date: 9/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 360 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 04:00 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 the full Annual Compliance visit. The facility was currently operating with a Four Star License issued on April 4, 2022 and had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 94% prior to today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on September 13, 2023. The March 2024 Center Item Number Listing and March 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. The license and NC Summary of the Law were prominently posted. Upon arrival I was greeted by the cook and she stated Ms. Kimberly Doster, director, was not onsite today. Ms. M. Arbuckle, lead teacher, accompanied me on the walkthrough. Eight (8) classrooms were monitored today. Children were observed participating in a variety of activities to include independent play, large group time, and playing outdoors. Arrival times were documented as required. Teachers were observed engaged and actively supervising children. Each classroom met staff/child ratios. Infants were observed sleeping and being fed. Safe sleep checks were completed as required. Bottles were observed dated and labeled. Each child 15 months and younger had a posted feeding schedule. One (1) child in Space 2b did not have an updated feeding plan to indicate table foods. Topical creams were monitored and each had a current permission form. Classrooms were organized and had a variety of age appropriate materials. Schedules were posted and teachers were observed referencing the curriculum book. Playgrounds were monitored and met compliance. I observed preschool aged children riding bicycles on the paved portion of the playground. Ms. Arbuckle stated the bicycles were donated to the program. The bicycles were trainer bikes and did not have pedals. The warning label on the bike indicated to always use with properly fitted shoes and helmet. Children were not wearing helmets while using the bikes. Emergency medications were monitored and met requirements. It was reported in Space 8 for children four years of age that there were no cots for children to nap/rest on during rest time. I explained that each child was required to have an assigned cot and rest time should occur on the cot. It was reported that children participated in quiet activities during rest time. The kitchen was monitored. Lunch met nutrition requirements. Transportation requirements were monitored. Two (2) buses were monitored. The registration for one (1) bus expired in May 2024. During the visit it was discovered that bus was assigned to the wrong facility. It was reported the bus was used during summer and to pick children up for afterschool. The transportation permission forms indicated permission to transport for summer camp field trips. I explained that the forms needed to be updated to include where children were being transported to and from and the specific times of transport. Both buses had disinfectants stored on the floor and one (1) had bug spray stored on the floor. Both buses had trash on the floors and food was observed in several seats. Emergency identifying information was observed for each child and emergency contacts information was completed. A sampling of staff files were monitored including four (4) new employees. A sampling of children’s files were monitored. The facility had a statement signed by parents indicating emergency medical care (EMC) could be provided in the event of an emergency from the date of enrollment and throughout enrollment. I explained that emergency medical care information was required to be renewed annually. We discussed using pages 1 and 2 from the enrollment packet each year during reenrollment to satisfy the requirements for annual updates to EMC and emergency contact review. Fire Drill logs and emergency drills were completed as required. Playground inspections were completed as required. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 4/4/24 and received superior rating. The last fire inspection was conducted on 5/21/24. - The EPR plan was updated 7/3/24. Violation Number Comment Rule 542 The written feeding plan was not modified as the child's needs changed. One (1) child in Space 2b did not have an updated feeding plan to indicate table foods. 10 NCAC 09 .0902(a) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. N0 children in Space 8 had assigned cots. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The outdoor riding toys and stationary kitchen on the toddler playground were observed with mud and mildew. The arm of a plastic rocking chair was observed cracked and broken. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Children were observed using Strider bicycles today without helmets. The warning label on the bike indicated to always use with properly fitted shoes and helmet. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Both buses had disinfectants stored on the floor and one (1) had bug spray stored on the floor. .2820(b) 1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. The registration expired in May 2024 for Bus #19099. .1002(b) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. The permission to transport on file for all school age children did not indicate where the children were being transported to and from and the arrival/departure times were not accurate. .1003(i)(j) 1311 Emergency medical care information was not on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and/or was not updated as changes occurred or at least annually for each child. Six (6) children's updated emergency medical care information did not include (2) the responsible party's choice of health care professional. .0802(c) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. One (1) child did not have the date of enrollment listed on the discipline policy. .1804(b) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three (3) children did not have all of the required information addressed on the application. .0801(a)(1-7) Corrective Action: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Wednesday, September 18, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Stansfield, Child Care Consultant PO Box 1967 Huntersville, NC 28078 jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance/General Comments: Star Rated License Reassessment Update: SB 425 extended hold harmless until the new Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) is revised and implemented. Facilities are not required to proceed with the rated license assessment at this time unless they voluntarily choose to proceed. – QRIS update: Get ready for the 3s Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third edition. Information regarding the transition can be found by visiting https://ncrlap.org/Resources/pages/get-ready-for-3s. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://ncrlap.org/. for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Rule Clarification: 10A NCAC 09 .0802 EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE (c) Emergency medical care information shall be on file for each child. That information shall include: (1) the name, address, and telephone number of the parent or other person to be contacted in case of an emergency; (2) the responsible party's choice of health care professional; (3) any chronic illness and any medication taken for that illness; and (4) any other information that has a direct bearing on ensuring safe medical treatment for the child. This emergency medical care information shall be on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and shall be updated as changes occur and at least annually. 10A NCAC 09 .0608 PREVENTION OF SHAKEN BABY SYNDROME AND ABUSIVE HEAD TRAUMA (a) Each child care center licensed to care for children up to five years of age shall develop and adopt policies to prevent shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma prior to licensure. The policy shall include the following: (1) How to recognize, respond to, and report the signs and symptoms of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma. Signs and symptoms include: irritability, difficulty staying awake, difficulty breathing, inability to lift the head, seizures, lack of appetite, vomiting, and bruises; (2) Strategies to assist staff members in coping with a crying, fussing, or distraught child; (3) Strategies to assist staff members in understanding how to care for infants; (4) Strategies to ensure staff members understand the brain development of children up to five years of age; (5) A list of prohibited behaviors that shall include, but not be limited to, shaking a child, tossing a child into the air or into a crib, chair, or car seat, and pushing a child into walls, doors, and furniture; and (6) Resources to assist staff members and families in preventing shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma. (d) Within 30 days of adopting the policy, the child care center shall review the policy with existing staff members who provide care for children up to five years of age. Each child care center shall review the policy with new staff members prior to the individual providing care to children. The acknowledgement of this review shall contain: (1) the individual's name; (2) the date the center's policy was given and explained to the individual; (3) the individual's signature; and (4) the date the individual signed the acknowledgment. The child care center shall retain the acknowledgement in the staff member's file. Thank you for your time today. Contact me with questions or concerns at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov 0r 704-956-1648. 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 CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/4/2024 Number Present: 100 Completed Date: 9/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 360 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 04:00 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 the full Annual Compliance visit. The facility was currently operating with a Four Star License issued on April 4, 2022 and had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 94% prior to today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on September 13, 2023. The March 2024 Center Item Number Listing and March 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. The license and NC Summary of the Law were prominently posted. Upon arrival I was greeted by the cook and she stated Ms. Kimberly Doster, director, was not onsite today. Ms. M. Arbuckle, lead teacher, accompanied me on the walkthrough. Eight (8) classrooms were monitored today. Children were observed participating in a variety of activities to include independent play, large group time, and playing outdoors. Arrival times were documented as required. Teachers were observed engaged and actively supervising children. Each classroom met staff/child ratios. Infants were observed sleeping and being fed. Safe sleep checks were completed as required. Bottles were observed dated and labeled. Each child 15 months and younger had a posted feeding schedule. One (1) child in Space 2b did not have an updated feeding plan to indicate table foods. Topical creams were monitored and each had a current permission form. Classrooms were organized and had a variety of age appropriate materials. Schedules were posted and teachers were observed referencing the curriculum book. Playgrounds were monitored and met compliance. I observed preschool aged children riding bicycles on the paved portion of the playground. Ms. Arbuckle stated the bicycles were donated to the program. The bicycles were trainer bikes and did not have pedals. The warning label on the bike indicated to always use with properly fitted shoes and helmet. Children were not wearing helmets while using the bikes. Emergency medications were monitored and met requirements. It was reported in Space 8 for children four years of age that there were no cots for children to nap/rest on during rest time. I explained that each child was required to have an assigned cot and rest time should occur on the cot. It was reported that children participated in quiet activities during rest time. The kitchen was monitored. Lunch met nutrition requirements. Transportation requirements were monitored. Two (2) buses were monitored. The registration for one (1) bus expired in May 2024. During the visit it was discovered that bus was assigned to the wrong facility. It was reported the bus was used during summer and to pick children up for afterschool. The transportation permission forms indicated permission to transport for summer camp field trips. I explained that the forms needed to be updated to include where children were being transported to and from and the specific times of transport. Both buses had disinfectants stored on the floor and one (1) had bug spray stored on the floor. Both buses had trash on the floors and food was observed in several seats. Emergency identifying information was observed for each child and emergency contacts information was completed. A sampling of staff files were monitored including four (4) new employees. A sampling of children’s files were monitored. The facility had a statement signed by parents indicating emergency medical care (EMC) could be provided in the event of an emergency from the date of enrollment and throughout enrollment. I explained that emergency medical care information was required to be renewed annually. We discussed using pages 1 and 2 from the enrollment packet each year during reenrollment to satisfy the requirements for annual updates to EMC and emergency contact review. Fire Drill logs and emergency drills were completed as required. Playground inspections were completed as required. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 4/4/24 and received superior rating. The last fire inspection was conducted on 5/21/24. - The EPR plan was updated 7/3/24. Violation Number Comment Rule 542 The written feeding plan was not modified as the child's needs changed. One (1) child in Space 2b did not have an updated feeding plan to indicate table foods. 10 NCAC 09 .0902(a) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. N0 children in Space 8 had assigned cots. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The outdoor riding toys and stationary kitchen on the toddler playground were observed with mud and mildew. The arm of a plastic rocking chair was observed cracked and broken. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Children were observed using Strider bicycles today without helmets. The warning label on the bike indicated to always use with properly fitted shoes and helmet. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Both buses had disinfectants stored on the floor and one (1) had bug spray stored on the floor. .2820(b) 1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. The registration expired in May 2024 for Bus #19099. .1002(b) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. The permission to transport on file for all school age children did not indicate where the children were being transported to and from and the arrival/departure times were not accurate. .1003(i)(j) 1311 Emergency medical care information was not on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and/or was not updated as changes occurred or at least annually for each child. Six (6) children's updated emergency medical care information did not include (2) the responsible party's choice of health care professional. .0802(c) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. One (1) child did not have the date of enrollment listed on the discipline policy. .1804(b) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three (3) children did not have all of the required information addressed on the application. .0801(a)(1-7) Corrective Action: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Wednesday, September 18, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Stansfield, Child Care Consultant PO Box 1967 Huntersville, NC 28078 jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance/General Comments: Star Rated License Reassessment Update: SB 425 extended hold harmless until the new Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) is revised and implemented. Facilities are not required to proceed with the rated license assessment at this time unless they voluntarily choose to proceed. – QRIS update: Get ready for the 3s Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third edition. Information regarding the transition can be found by visiting https://ncrlap.org/Resources/pages/get-ready-for-3s. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://ncrlap.org/. for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Rule Clarification: 10A NCAC 09 .0802 EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE (c) Emergency medical care information shall be on file for each child. That information shall include: (1) the name, address, and telephone number of the parent or other person to be contacted in case of an emergency; (2) the responsible party's choice of health care professional; (3) any chronic illness and any medication taken for that illness; and (4) any other information that has a direct bearing on ensuring safe medical treatment for the child. This emergency medical care information shall be on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and shall be updated as changes occur and at least annually. 10A NCAC 09 .0608 PREVENTION OF SHAKEN BABY SYNDROME AND ABUSIVE HEAD TRAUMA (a) Each child care center licensed to care for children up to five years of age shall develop and adopt policies to prevent shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma prior to licensure. The policy shall include the following: (1) How to recognize, respond to, and report the signs and symptoms of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma. Signs and symptoms include: irritability, difficulty staying awake, difficulty breathing, inability to lift the head, seizures, lack of appetite, vomiting, and bruises; (2) Strategies to assist staff members in coping with a crying, fussing, or distraught child; (3) Strategies to assist staff members in understanding how to care for infants; (4) Strategies to ensure staff members understand the brain development of children up to five years of age; (5) A list of prohibited behaviors that shall include, but not be limited to, shaking a child, tossing a child into the air or into a crib, chair, or car seat, and pushing a child into walls, doors, and furniture; and (6) Resources to assist staff members and families in preventing shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma. (d) Within 30 days of adopting the policy, the child care center shall review the policy with existing staff members who provide care for children up to five years of age. Each child care center shall review the policy with new staff members prior to the individual providing care to children. The acknowledgement of this review shall contain: (1) the individual's name; (2) the date the center's policy was given and explained to the individual; (3) the individual's signature; and (4) the date the individual signed the acknowledgment. The child care center shall retain the acknowledgement in the staff member's file. Thank you for your time today. Contact me with questions or concerns at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov 0r 704-956-1648. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/4/2024 Number Present: 100 Completed Date: 9/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 360 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 04:00 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 the full Annual Compliance visit. The facility was currently operating with a Four Star License issued on April 4, 2022 and had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 94% prior to today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on September 13, 2023. The March 2024 Center Item Number Listing and March 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. The license and NC Summary of the Law were prominently posted. Upon arrival I was greeted by the cook and she stated Ms. Kimberly Doster, director, was not onsite today. Ms. M. Arbuckle, lead teacher, accompanied me on the walkthrough. Eight (8) classrooms were monitored today. Children were observed participating in a variety of activities to include independent play, large group time, and playing outdoors. Arrival times were documented as required. Teachers were observed engaged and actively supervising children. Each classroom met staff/child ratios. Infants were observed sleeping and being fed. Safe sleep checks were completed as required. Bottles were observed dated and labeled. Each child 15 months and younger had a posted feeding schedule. One (1) child in Space 2b did not have an updated feeding plan to indicate table foods. Topical creams were monitored and each had a current permission form. Classrooms were organized and had a variety of age appropriate materials. Schedules were posted and teachers were observed referencing the curriculum book. Playgrounds were monitored and met compliance. I observed preschool aged children riding bicycles on the paved portion of the playground. Ms. Arbuckle stated the bicycles were donated to the program. The bicycles were trainer bikes and did not have pedals. The warning label on the bike indicated to always use with properly fitted shoes and helmet. Children were not wearing helmets while using the bikes. Emergency medications were monitored and met requirements. It was reported in Space 8 for children four years of age that there were no cots for children to nap/rest on during rest time. I explained that each child was required to have an assigned cot and rest time should occur on the cot. It was reported that children participated in quiet activities during rest time. The kitchen was monitored. Lunch met nutrition requirements. Transportation requirements were monitored. Two (2) buses were monitored. The registration for one (1) bus expired in May 2024. During the visit it was discovered that bus was assigned to the wrong facility. It was reported the bus was used during summer and to pick children up for afterschool. The transportation permission forms indicated permission to transport for summer camp field trips. I explained that the forms needed to be updated to include where children were being transported to and from and the specific times of transport. Both buses had disinfectants stored on the floor and one (1) had bug spray stored on the floor. Both buses had trash on the floors and food was observed in several seats. Emergency identifying information was observed for each child and emergency contacts information was completed. A sampling of staff files were monitored including four (4) new employees. A sampling of children’s files were monitored. The facility had a statement signed by parents indicating emergency medical care (EMC) could be provided in the event of an emergency from the date of enrollment and throughout enrollment. I explained that emergency medical care information was required to be renewed annually. We discussed using pages 1 and 2 from the enrollment packet each year during reenrollment to satisfy the requirements for annual updates to EMC and emergency contact review. Fire Drill logs and emergency drills were completed as required. Playground inspections were completed as required. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 4/4/24 and received superior rating. The last fire inspection was conducted on 5/21/24. - The EPR plan was updated 7/3/24. Violation Number Comment Rule 542 The written feeding plan was not modified as the child's needs changed. One (1) child in Space 2b did not have an updated feeding plan to indicate table foods. 10 NCAC 09 .0902(a) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. N0 children in Space 8 had assigned cots. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The outdoor riding toys and stationary kitchen on the toddler playground were observed with mud and mildew. The arm of a plastic rocking chair was observed cracked and broken. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Children were observed using Strider bicycles today without helmets. The warning label on the bike indicated to always use with properly fitted shoes and helmet. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Both buses had disinfectants stored on the floor and one (1) had bug spray stored on the floor. .2820(b) 1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. The registration expired in May 2024 for Bus #19099. .1002(b) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. The permission to transport on file for all school age children did not indicate where the children were being transported to and from and the arrival/departure times were not accurate. .1003(i)(j) 1311 Emergency medical care information was not on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and/or was not updated as changes occurred or at least annually for each child. Six (6) children's updated emergency medical care information did not include (2) the responsible party's choice of health care professional. .0802(c) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. One (1) child did not have the date of enrollment listed on the discipline policy. .1804(b) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three (3) children did not have all of the required information addressed on the application. .0801(a)(1-7) Corrective Action: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Wednesday, September 18, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Stansfield, Child Care Consultant PO Box 1967 Huntersville, NC 28078 jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance/General Comments: Star Rated License Reassessment Update: SB 425 extended hold harmless until the new Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) is revised and implemented. Facilities are not required to proceed with the rated license assessment at this time unless they voluntarily choose to proceed. – QRIS update: Get ready for the 3s Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third edition. Information regarding the transition can be found by visiting https://ncrlap.org/Resources/pages/get-ready-for-3s. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://ncrlap.org/. for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Rule Clarification: 10A NCAC 09 .0802 EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE (c) Emergency medical care information shall be on file for each child. That information shall include: (1) the name, address, and telephone number of the parent or other person to be contacted in case of an emergency; (2) the responsible party's choice of health care professional; (3) any chronic illness and any medication taken for that illness; and (4) any other information that has a direct bearing on ensuring safe medical treatment for the child. This emergency medical care information shall be on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and shall be updated as changes occur and at least annually. 10A NCAC 09 .0608 PREVENTION OF SHAKEN BABY SYNDROME AND ABUSIVE HEAD TRAUMA (a) Each child care center licensed to care for children up to five years of age shall develop and adopt policies to prevent shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma prior to licensure. The policy shall include the following: (1) How to recognize, respond to, and report the signs and symptoms of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma. Signs and symptoms include: irritability, difficulty staying awake, difficulty breathing, inability to lift the head, seizures, lack of appetite, vomiting, and bruises; (2) Strategies to assist staff members in coping with a crying, fussing, or distraught child; (3) Strategies to assist staff members in understanding how to care for infants; (4) Strategies to ensure staff members understand the brain development of children up to five years of age; (5) A list of prohibited behaviors that shall include, but not be limited to, shaking a child, tossing a child into the air or into a crib, chair, or car seat, and pushing a child into walls, doors, and furniture; and (6) Resources to assist staff members and families in preventing shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma. (d) Within 30 days of adopting the policy, the child care center shall review the policy with existing staff members who provide care for children up to five years of age. Each child care center shall review the policy with new staff members prior to the individual providing care to children. The acknowledgement of this review shall contain: (1) the individual's name; (2) the date the center's policy was given and explained to the individual; (3) the individual's signature; and (4) the date the individual signed the acknowledgment. The child care center shall retain the acknowledgement in the staff member's file. Thank you for your time today. Contact me with questions or concerns at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov 0r 704-956-1648. 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 CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/4/2024 Number Present: 100 Completed Date: 9/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 360 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 04:00 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 the full Annual Compliance visit. The facility was currently operating with a Four Star License issued on April 4, 2022 and had an eighteen (18) month compliance history score of 94% prior to today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on September 13, 2023. The March 2024 Center Item Number Listing and March 2023 Annual Compliance Checklist were used to monitor today. The license and NC Summary of the Law were prominently posted. Upon arrival I was greeted by the cook and she stated Ms. Kimberly Doster, director, was not onsite today. Ms. M. Arbuckle, lead teacher, accompanied me on the walkthrough. Eight (8) classrooms were monitored today. Children were observed participating in a variety of activities to include independent play, large group time, and playing outdoors. Arrival times were documented as required. Teachers were observed engaged and actively supervising children. Each classroom met staff/child ratios. Infants were observed sleeping and being fed. Safe sleep checks were completed as required. Bottles were observed dated and labeled. Each child 15 months and younger had a posted feeding schedule. One (1) child in Space 2b did not have an updated feeding plan to indicate table foods. Topical creams were monitored and each had a current permission form. Classrooms were organized and had a variety of age appropriate materials. Schedules were posted and teachers were observed referencing the curriculum book. Playgrounds were monitored and met compliance. I observed preschool aged children riding bicycles on the paved portion of the playground. Ms. Arbuckle stated the bicycles were donated to the program. The bicycles were trainer bikes and did not have pedals. The warning label on the bike indicated to always use with properly fitted shoes and helmet. Children were not wearing helmets while using the bikes. Emergency medications were monitored and met requirements. It was reported in Space 8 for children four years of age that there were no cots for children to nap/rest on during rest time. I explained that each child was required to have an assigned cot and rest time should occur on the cot. It was reported that children participated in quiet activities during rest time. The kitchen was monitored. Lunch met nutrition requirements. Transportation requirements were monitored. Two (2) buses were monitored. The registration for one (1) bus expired in May 2024. During the visit it was discovered that bus was assigned to the wrong facility. It was reported the bus was used during summer and to pick children up for afterschool. The transportation permission forms indicated permission to transport for summer camp field trips. I explained that the forms needed to be updated to include where children were being transported to and from and the specific times of transport. Both buses had disinfectants stored on the floor and one (1) had bug spray stored on the floor. Both buses had trash on the floors and food was observed in several seats. Emergency identifying information was observed for each child and emergency contacts information was completed. A sampling of staff files were monitored including four (4) new employees. A sampling of children’s files were monitored. The facility had a statement signed by parents indicating emergency medical care (EMC) could be provided in the event of an emergency from the date of enrollment and throughout enrollment. I explained that emergency medical care information was required to be renewed annually. We discussed using pages 1 and 2 from the enrollment packet each year during reenrollment to satisfy the requirements for annual updates to EMC and emergency contact review. Fire Drill logs and emergency drills were completed as required. Playground inspections were completed as required. The last sanitation inspection was conducted on 4/4/24 and received superior rating. The last fire inspection was conducted on 5/21/24. - The EPR plan was updated 7/3/24. Violation Number Comment Rule 542 The written feeding plan was not modified as the child's needs changed. One (1) child in Space 2b did not have an updated feeding plan to indicate table foods. 10 NCAC 09 .0902(a) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. N0 children in Space 8 had assigned cots. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The outdoor riding toys and stationary kitchen on the toddler playground were observed with mud and mildew. The arm of a plastic rocking chair was observed cracked and broken. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Children were observed using Strider bicycles today without helmets. The warning label on the bike indicated to always use with properly fitted shoes and helmet. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Both buses had disinfectants stored on the floor and one (1) had bug spray stored on the floor. .2820(b) 1110 Vehicles used to transport children enrolled in the child care center did not comply with all applicable State and federal laws and regulations. The registration expired in May 2024 for Bus #19099. .1002(b) 1125 Before children were transported, written permission from a parent was not obtained that included when and where the child was to be transported, expected time of departure and arrival, and the transportation provider. The permission to transport on file for all school age children did not indicate where the children were being transported to and from and the arrival/departure times were not accurate. .1003(i)(j) 1311 Emergency medical care information was not on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and/or was not updated as changes occurred or at least annually for each child. Six (6) children's updated emergency medical care information did not include (2) the responsible party's choice of health care professional. .0802(c) 1325 Parent’s statement includes the child’s name and date of enrollment and the date the parent signed the statement. One (1) child did not have the date of enrollment listed on the discipline policy. .1804(b) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Three (3) children did not have all of the required information addressed on the application. .0801(a)(1-7) Corrective Action: Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Wednesday, September 18, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Stansfield, Child Care Consultant PO Box 1967 Huntersville, NC 28078 jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance/General Comments: Star Rated License Reassessment Update: SB 425 extended hold harmless until the new Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) is revised and implemented. Facilities are not required to proceed with the rated license assessment at this time unless they voluntarily choose to proceed. – QRIS update: Get ready for the 3s Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third edition. Information regarding the transition can be found by visiting https://ncrlap.org/Resources/pages/get-ready-for-3s. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://ncrlap.org/. for more information about updated resources, credit hour trainings, and outreach assessment opportunities to help you become familiar with these tools. For official environment rating scale assessments for a NC Star Rated License, the NCRLAP will use the Revised editions until February 1, 2025. Rule Clarification: 10A NCAC 09 .0802 EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE (c) Emergency medical care information shall be on file for each child. That information shall include: (1) the name, address, and telephone number of the parent or other person to be contacted in case of an emergency; (2) the responsible party's choice of health care professional; (3) any chronic illness and any medication taken for that illness; and (4) any other information that has a direct bearing on ensuring safe medical treatment for the child. This emergency medical care information shall be on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and shall be updated as changes occur and at least annually. 10A NCAC 09 .0608 PREVENTION OF SHAKEN BABY SYNDROME AND ABUSIVE HEAD TRAUMA (a) Each child care center licensed to care for children up to five years of age shall develop and adopt policies to prevent shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma prior to licensure. The policy shall include the following: (1) How to recognize, respond to, and report the signs and symptoms of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma. Signs and symptoms include: irritability, difficulty staying awake, difficulty breathing, inability to lift the head, seizures, lack of appetite, vomiting, and bruises; (2) Strategies to assist staff members in coping with a crying, fussing, or distraught child; (3) Strategies to assist staff members in understanding how to care for infants; (4) Strategies to ensure staff members understand the brain development of children up to five years of age; (5) A list of prohibited behaviors that shall include, but not be limited to, shaking a child, tossing a child into the air or into a crib, chair, or car seat, and pushing a child into walls, doors, and furniture; and (6) Resources to assist staff members and families in preventing shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma. (d) Within 30 days of adopting the policy, the child care center shall review the policy with existing staff members who provide care for children up to five years of age. Each child care center shall review the policy with new staff members prior to the individual providing care to children. The acknowledgement of this review shall contain: (1) the individual's name; (2) the date the center's policy was given and explained to the individual; (3) the individual's signature; and (4) the date the individual signed the acknowledgment. The child care center shall retain the acknowledgement in the staff member's file. Thank you for your time today. Contact me with questions or concerns at jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov 0r 704-956-1648. 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 CENTERS LLC Facility ID: 6055064 Consultant: JENNIFER STANSFIELD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/2/2024 Number Present: 81 Completed Date: 4/2/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 100 Time In: 11:05 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor applicable child care rules and laws during a routine unannounced visit. The facility currently operated with a Four Star Rated License issued April 4, 2022 and earned 4 points in the staff education component, 6 points in the program component meeting enhanced space and ratio requirements, and 1 point in the quality component for having approved enhanced policies, a staff benefits package, and an infrastructure of parent involvement. The facility had an eighteen month compliance history of 98% prior to today’s visit. The license and NC child care law summary were posted. The following was monitored using the August 2023 Master Center Item Number Listing: supervision, capacity, staff/child ratios, adequate and approved space, criminal background checks, CPR, First Aid, special training, new staff records, storage of hazardous products, and storage of medication. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. Kimberly Doster, Director, and I explained the purpose of my visit. Ms. Doster accompanied me on the walkthrough. The door to the laundry room and staff restroom was observed unlocked. Hazardous products were observed stored inside. The door was equipped with a keypad locking system. Ms. Doster stated the system was new and staff may not have locked it again after leaving to the space. In the room for infants, I observed three (3) teachers caring for seven (7) infants. Infants were observed on the floor playing with teachers. Safe sleep checks were completed as required. Each infant had an assigned crib and cribs were labeled. Evacuation cribs were observed next to the exterior door. Teachers stated they laid every infant down on their back but some children turned immediately on their side or tummy. They stated they documented hoe the child was positioned when they walked away from the crib. I explained that even if the child rolls immediately to their side or tummy they should document how the child was placed in the crib. Toddlers were observed finishing lunch. Teachers wiped hands and faces as they finished lunch. Lunch met nutrition requirements. Classrooms were organized and materials were observed in good repair. Children in Space 8 for preschool aged children were observed coming in from outdoor play. The teacher was observed at the door conducting a head count of children as they entered. Children washed hands and sat on the carpet for large group story time as they waited for lunch to be served. Evidence of implemented curriculum was observed in all classrooms. Materials were plentiful and observed in good repair in all classrooms. During the visit I observed a preschool aged child leave the bathroom in the hallway and walk back to Space 8 unaccompanied. Ms. Doster was not present when I observed the child unsupervised. I discussed what I observed with Ms. Doster and she went to Space 8 and discussed with the class that they could not leave the classroom without their teacher. All required documents were observed current and posted. Medications were monitored in all classrooms. It was explained that emergency medications should not be stored behind lock and key in Space 1 but should be stored above five feet. The Epi pen was observed stored in a locked cabinet. The cabinet did not have anything stored in it that would be considered hazardous. Ms. Doster stated the teacher could leave the cabinet unlocked and keep the medication stored in the cabinet. One (1) new staff file was reviewed and met requirements. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. A preschool aged child was observed leaving the bathroom in the hallway and walking back to Space 8 unaccompanied. .1801(a)(1-5) 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. The door to the laundry room and staff restroom was observed unlocked. Cleaning products to include bleach and aerosol sprays were observed stored inside. .2820(b) Corrective Action: Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before Tuesday, April 16, 2024 I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Stansfield, Child Care Consultant PO Box 1967 Huntersville, NC 28078 Jennifer.stansfield@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance/General Comments: - A violation was documented for failure to maintain compliance with supervision requirements. Violations of this nature directly impact the safety of the children while in your care. In addition, these types of violations have the greatest negative impact on your compliance history. A follow up visit will be conducted in the near future to monitor compliance with child care requirements. - Ms. Doster stated CCRI began working with the facility last week to prepare for the Rated License Assessment. The facility is in Cohort 1 and their evaluation year begins 7/1/24. We discussed requesting the assessment in the fall to coincide with the annual compliance visit. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.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.