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Home › NC › Charlotte › Precious Little Steps
Charlotte NC 28269 · License #60002177 · Home-based · Family Child Care Home
Not published by the state. Owners can add hours via profile claim.
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G.S. 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: PRECIOUS LITTLE STEPS Facility ID: 60002177 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 11/6/2025 Number Present: 7 Completed Date: 11/6/2025 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 02:15 PM Time Out: 04:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home 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. I was greeted by Owner/Operator Ms. Linda Speech. and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Speech's husband was present in the home during the visit. The facility had a Five-Star License issued July 18, 2019, and has an eighteen-month compliance history score of one-hundred (100) percent prior to today’s visit. The Annual Compliance visit was completed on March 14, 2025. I observed five (5) children present upon arrival, and I observed the children napping. Adequate supervision was provided while the children napped. Two (2) school-age children arrived during the visit for after school care. The following child care requirements were monitored and observed today using the Family Child Care Home Checklist and the 2025 Master Family Child Care Home Item Number Listing. Supervision: The children were adequately supervised. Nurturing tones were heard when Mrs. Ms. Speech and Ms. Little spoke with the children. Staff/Child Ratio: The staff/child ratio was maintained during today’s visit. CPR: Ms. Speech and Ms. Little are current with CPR. First Aid: Ms. Speech and Ms. Little are current First Aid. Special Training: Ms. Speech and Ms. Little are continuing to participate in ongoing in-service training. CBC Qualification: Ms. Speech has a current criminal background check (CBC) letter on file. Mrs. Speech's husband has a current CBC letter on file, and Mrs. Speech daughter has a current CBC letter on file. The roster was incomplete in the Automated Background Check System (ABCMS), and a violation was cited. ITS-SIDS: There is one (1) infant enrolled at this time. Ms. Speech and Ms. Little are current with ITS-SIDS training. The Infant Safe Sleep Poster and Policy were posted, and the Safe Sleep Charts were monitored; compliance met. Emergency Medical Care Plan: The Emergency Care Plan was posted. Administration of Medication: There are no children with medication, and there are no children with allergies. Storage of Hazardous Substances: I did not observe any hazardous substances accessible to children. Storage of Medication: No storage of medication. General Safety: There are no safety concerns. Discipline: There were no discipline concerns; appropriate discipline was provided. Adequate/Approved Space: The children present during the visit were observed in licensed approved space. Program Records: I reviewed all information required to be posted. The monthly fire drill was complete and up to date, and the quarterly drill (shelter-in-place/lockdown drills) were up to date. The playground inspections were up-to-date. License Posted: The license was observed posted. Permit Restrictions: All permit restrictions were observed meeting compliance today. The last Sanitation Inspection was completed February 11, 2025 with a demerit score of zero (0). The water was tested July 23, 2024. The Emergency Preparedness Plan is on file and was reviewed; compliance was met. One (1) violation was cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 1847 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The roster was incomplete in ABCMS. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before November 20, 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 will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Ms. Speech stated that she has completed the training for the ABCMS, and she has continued to experience difficulty with the system. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. On June 26th, the North Carolina Rules Review Commission (RRC) approved the QRIS Modernization rules adopted by the NC Child Care Commission during their April meeting. The Division of Child Development and Early Education is preparing a summary of the rules, an online training module for Moodle, and an implementation plan. The implementation plan will allow time for administrators/operators to learn and understand the different pathways and the changes within our system. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website to learn more now. -The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: • In August, we provided a rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and hosted webinars. • In September, child care consultants hosted in-person facility operator/administrator meetings within the counties served; provided additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. • 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 twelve (12) months based on the pathway chosen. -Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.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. Please review the information on the NCRLAP's website to become familiar with the new third edition. -An email was issued on July 31, 2025, regarding the Quality Every Day (QED) Program. Quality Every Day (QED) is a quality initiative at Child Care Resources Inc., funded by Smart Start of Mecklenburg County. They are recruiting for the QED Program this year for those that may be interested in coaching and training for teachers and directors. There are different tracks for participation (Licensing renewal, Program start-up, staff-child interactions and director support); and there are new opportunities this year like updated ERS-3 trainings, Leadership college coursework for administrators and Communities of Practice for both Child Care Directors and Family Child Care providers. They still have opportunities for college coursework and stipends for coursework completion. -Technical Assistance was provided on the QRIS Pathway to the Stars. Ms. Speech stated that she would like to apply for a five (5) Star Rated License through Pathway 2; forms (Pathway to the Stars) were completed during the visit. The following documents were reviewed and copies provided: -QRIS Pathway #2-Classroom and Instructional Quality for Family Child Care Homes (FCCH) -Four Star Education Standards -Family and Community Engagement Standards -CQI -Review of Self-Study Forms (emailed to provider during the visit). -QRIS Timeline reviewed: -October 2025-March 2026: Review of Resources and Materials -April 2026-September 2026-Submit rated license application and transition to a pathway, and Application for 2-5 star rated license application. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Generated from this facility's specific inspection record
Data synced from North Carolina's child care licensing agency on Jul 9, 2026 · Report an error
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: PRECIOUS LITTLE STEPS Facility ID: 60002177 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 11/6/2025 Number Present: 7 Completed Date: 11/6/2025 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 02:15 PM Time Out: 04:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home 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. I was greeted by Owner/Operator Ms. Linda Speech. and I explained the purpose of the visit. Ms. Speech's husband was present in the home during the visit. The facility had a Five-Star License issued July 18, 2019, and has an eighteen-month compliance history score of one-hundred (100) percent prior to today’s visit. The Annual Compliance visit was completed on March 14, 2025. I observed five (5) children present upon arrival, and I observed the children napping. Adequate supervision was provided while the children napped. Two (2) school-age children arrived during the visit for after school care. The following child care requirements were monitored and observed today using the Family Child Care Home Checklist and the 2025 Master Family Child Care Home Item Number Listing. Supervision: The children were adequately supervised. Nurturing tones were heard when Mrs. Ms. Speech and Ms. Little spoke with the children. Staff/Child Ratio: The staff/child ratio was maintained during today’s visit. CPR: Ms. Speech and Ms. Little are current with CPR. First Aid: Ms. Speech and Ms. Little are current First Aid. Special Training: Ms. Speech and Ms. Little are continuing to participate in ongoing in-service training. CBC Qualification: Ms. Speech has a current criminal background check (CBC) letter on file. Mrs. Speech's husband has a current CBC letter on file, and Mrs. Speech daughter has a current CBC letter on file. The roster was incomplete in the Automated Background Check System (ABCMS), and a violation was cited. ITS-SIDS: There is one (1) infant enrolled at this time. Ms. Speech and Ms. Little are current with ITS-SIDS training. The Infant Safe Sleep Poster and Policy were posted, and the Safe Sleep Charts were monitored; compliance met. Emergency Medical Care Plan: The Emergency Care Plan was posted. Administration of Medication: There are no children with medication, and there are no children with allergies. Storage of Hazardous Substances: I did not observe any hazardous substances accessible to children. Storage of Medication: No storage of medication. General Safety: There are no safety concerns. Discipline: There were no discipline concerns; appropriate discipline was provided. Adequate/Approved Space: The children present during the visit were observed in licensed approved space. Program Records: I reviewed all information required to be posted. The monthly fire drill was complete and up to date, and the quarterly drill (shelter-in-place/lockdown drills) were up to date. The playground inspections were up-to-date. License Posted: The license was observed posted. Permit Restrictions: All permit restrictions were observed meeting compliance today. The last Sanitation Inspection was completed February 11, 2025 with a demerit score of zero (0). The water was tested July 23, 2024. The Emergency Preparedness Plan is on file and was reviewed; compliance was met. One (1) violation was cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 1847 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The roster was incomplete in ABCMS. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before November 20, 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 will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Ms. Speech stated that she has completed the training for the ABCMS, and she has continued to experience difficulty with the system. -CBC Provider Portal Technical Assistance & Notification to the Division of New Hires or Residents Technical Assistance Guidance: • As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. • The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. •Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. • Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. On June 26th, the North Carolina Rules Review Commission (RRC) approved the QRIS Modernization rules adopted by the NC Child Care Commission during their April meeting. The Division of Child Development and Early Education is preparing a summary of the rules, an online training module for Moodle, and an implementation plan. The implementation plan will allow time for administrators/operators to learn and understand the different pathways and the changes within our system. We encourage you to visit the QRIS Modernization page on the DCDEE website to learn more now. -The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: • In August, we provided a rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and hosted webinars. • In September, child care consultants hosted in-person facility operator/administrator meetings within the counties served; provided additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. • 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 twelve (12) months based on the pathway chosen. -Get Ready for the 3’s / QRIS: Starting on February 1, 2025, the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3—also known as the "3s"—will be used for DCDEE environment rating scale assessments. The DCDEE and the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project (NCRLAP) are collaboratively working on preparations for the transition to the third editions. These third editions come with a spiral binding at the top, replacing the current revised editions. Visit the NCRLAP’s website, https://www.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. Please review the information on the NCRLAP's website to become familiar with the new third edition. -An email was issued on July 31, 2025, regarding the Quality Every Day (QED) Program. Quality Every Day (QED) is a quality initiative at Child Care Resources Inc., funded by Smart Start of Mecklenburg County. They are recruiting for the QED Program this year for those that may be interested in coaching and training for teachers and directors. There are different tracks for participation (Licensing renewal, Program start-up, staff-child interactions and director support); and there are new opportunities this year like updated ERS-3 trainings, Leadership college coursework for administrators and Communities of Practice for both Child Care Directors and Family Child Care providers. They still have opportunities for college coursework and stipends for coursework completion. -Technical Assistance was provided on the QRIS Pathway to the Stars. Ms. Speech stated that she would like to apply for a five (5) Star Rated License through Pathway 2; forms (Pathway to the Stars) were completed during the visit. The following documents were reviewed and copies provided: -QRIS Pathway #2-Classroom and Instructional Quality for Family Child Care Homes (FCCH) -Four Star Education Standards -Family and Community Engagement Standards -CQI -Review of Self-Study Forms (emailed to provider during the visit). -QRIS Timeline reviewed: -October 2025-March 2026: Review of Resources and Materials -April 2026-September 2026-Submit rated license application and transition to a pathway, and Application for 2-5 star rated license application. The visit summary was reviewed, signed, and a copy was provided to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
10A NCAC 09 .1706 · Violation
Name of Operation: PRECIOUS LITTLE STEPS Facility ID: 60002177 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 4/3/2024 Number Present: 6 Completed Date: 4/3/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 160 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. I was greeted by owner/operator Ms. Linda Speech. Mr. Michael Speech, Ms. Speach’s husband was present in the home during the visit, and Caregiver Ms. Michelle Little was present providing care. The facility has a Five-Star License issued effective July 18, 2024. The last annual compliance visit was conducted April 6, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed February 5, 2024, with zero (0) demerits. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR) was updated January 28, 2024. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-two percent as of April 2, 2024. Upon arrival I observed five (5) preschool children and one (1) school-age child eating breakfast: cheese grits, apples, and milk. After the children completed breakfast, I observed the staff and children wash their hands. Children under twelve months old received care according to individual needs including diapering and bottle feeding. Proper hand washing techniques and diaper changing procedures were observed. The Infant Feeding Plans were not posted, and a violation was cited. The program was monitored using the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Family Child Care Homes, and the Family Child Care Home Item Number Listing. A copy of the checklist was provided to Ms. Speach. The child care facility, including the bathroom, child care room, kitchen, and outdoor play area were monitored during the visit. Soap and toilet paper were available in the bathroom for use. The toys and equipment were in good repair. In the kitchen, there was a working fire extinguisher, a working thermometer in the refrigerator, and smoke detectors. The following was observed posted: Current License, NC Summary of Child Care Law, Schedule, Activity Plan, and Emergency Numbers. Monthly Fire Drills, Shelter-in-Place/Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspections, the Emergency Medical Care Plan, Incident log, and the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan were observed; items posted met compliance. The daily attendance and arrival and departure times were reviewed and met compliance. Ms. Speach’s file was monitored and observed for Health Questionnaire, Emergency Information, First Aid and CPR, and a Criminal Qualifying Letter; Mr. Speach has a current CBC letter on file and Ms. Speech’s daughter has a CBC on file. Ms. Speach met the required number of training hours; compliance met. Ms. Little’s file was monitored and observed for Health Questionnaire, Emergency Information, First Aid and CPR, and Criminal Qualifying Letters. One (1) and a half (1.5) training hours are needed for ongoing training hours. The program uses an approved Curriculum, Funshine Express. The children’s files were monitored today, and the children's records met compliance. Signed Pet Acknowledgement Forms were on file, and Ms. Speach’s dog Rabies Vaccination is current. There are no children enrolled with allergies, and there are no children on medication or emergency medication. The outdoor play area was clean, and the toys were in good repair. Ms. Speach provides transportation during summer field trips. Vehicles used to transport children were observed, and compliance was met. One (1) violation was cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 1990 Infant feeding plans did not include the required information, including but not limited to the type and amount of milk, formula and food, and the frequency of feedings, and/or was not available for reference. The Infant Feeding Plans were not posted. .1706(i) 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 April 17, 2024 I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from. -On June 12th, Governor Cooper signed Senate Bill 291, extending the Child Care Hold Harmless legislation until June 30, 2024, and requiring the North Carolina Child Care Commission to make recommendations for modernizing the state’s Quality Rating and Improvement System. -Your facility has been assigned to Cohort 2: Prep year 7/1/24-6/30/25, Reassessment year 7/1/25-6/30/26. Please refer to the link for additional information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: Infant Feeding Plans are required to be posted. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1706. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed and signed, and a copy was emailed to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: PRECIOUS LITTLE STEPS Facility ID: 60002177 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 4/3/2024 Number Present: 6 Completed Date: 4/3/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 160 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. I was greeted by owner/operator Ms. Linda Speech. Mr. Michael Speech, Ms. Speach’s husband was present in the home during the visit, and Caregiver Ms. Michelle Little was present providing care. The facility has a Five-Star License issued effective July 18, 2024. The last annual compliance visit was conducted April 6, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed February 5, 2024, with zero (0) demerits. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR) was updated January 28, 2024. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-two percent as of April 2, 2024. Upon arrival I observed five (5) preschool children and one (1) school-age child eating breakfast: cheese grits, apples, and milk. After the children completed breakfast, I observed the staff and children wash their hands. Children under twelve months old received care according to individual needs including diapering and bottle feeding. Proper hand washing techniques and diaper changing procedures were observed. The Infant Feeding Plans were not posted, and a violation was cited. The program was monitored using the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Family Child Care Homes, and the Family Child Care Home Item Number Listing. A copy of the checklist was provided to Ms. Speach. The child care facility, including the bathroom, child care room, kitchen, and outdoor play area were monitored during the visit. Soap and toilet paper were available in the bathroom for use. The toys and equipment were in good repair. In the kitchen, there was a working fire extinguisher, a working thermometer in the refrigerator, and smoke detectors. The following was observed posted: Current License, NC Summary of Child Care Law, Schedule, Activity Plan, and Emergency Numbers. Monthly Fire Drills, Shelter-in-Place/Lockdown Drills, Playground Inspections, the Emergency Medical Care Plan, Incident log, and the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Plan were observed; items posted met compliance. The daily attendance and arrival and departure times were reviewed and met compliance. Ms. Speach’s file was monitored and observed for Health Questionnaire, Emergency Information, First Aid and CPR, and a Criminal Qualifying Letter; Mr. Speach has a current CBC letter on file and Ms. Speech’s daughter has a CBC on file. Ms. Speach met the required number of training hours; compliance met. Ms. Little’s file was monitored and observed for Health Questionnaire, Emergency Information, First Aid and CPR, and Criminal Qualifying Letters. One (1) and a half (1.5) training hours are needed for ongoing training hours. The program uses an approved Curriculum, Funshine Express. The children’s files were monitored today, and the children's records met compliance. Signed Pet Acknowledgement Forms were on file, and Ms. Speach’s dog Rabies Vaccination is current. There are no children enrolled with allergies, and there are no children on medication or emergency medication. The outdoor play area was clean, and the toys were in good repair. Ms. Speach provides transportation during summer field trips. Vehicles used to transport children were observed, and compliance was met. One (1) violation was cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 1990 Infant feeding plans did not include the required information, including but not limited to the type and amount of milk, formula and food, and the frequency of feedings, and/or was not available for reference. The Infant Feeding Plans were not posted. .1706(i) 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 April 17, 2024 I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov Reminders: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from. -On June 12th, Governor Cooper signed Senate Bill 291, extending the Child Care Hold Harmless legislation until June 30, 2024, and requiring the North Carolina Child Care Commission to make recommendations for modernizing the state’s Quality Rating and Improvement System. -Your facility has been assigned to Cohort 2: Prep year 7/1/24-6/30/25, Reassessment year 7/1/25-6/30/26. Please refer to the link for additional information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: Infant Feeding Plans are required to be posted. Refer to Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1706. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed and signed, and a copy was emailed to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
NC GS 110-90 · Violation
Name of Operation: PRECIOUS LITTLE STEPS Facility ID: 60002177 Consultant: DEANNA MATTHEWS Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 11/15/2023 Number Present: 5 Completed Date: 11/15/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 01:10 PM Time Out: 02:55 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home 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. I was greeted by the Owner/Operator Mrs. Linda Speach. Mr. Michael Speach, Mrs. Speach's husband was present in the home during the visit. Caregiver, Ms. Michelle Little, was present during the visit. The facility had a Five-Star License issued July 18, 2019, and an eighteen-month compliance history score of 90% prior to today’s visit. The Annual Compliance visit was completed on April 6, 2023. I observed proper handwashing as the children were preparing for lunch Mrs. Speach and Ms. Little used nurturing tones and provided adequate supervision. The children were served: chicken, green beans, mash potatoes, tangerines, and milk. There are no children enrolled on second shift. The following child care requirements were monitored and observed today using the Family Child Care Home Checklist and the Master Family Child Care Home Item Number Listing: Supervision: The children were adequately supervised. Nurturing tones were heard when Mrs. Speach and Ms. Little spoke with the children. Staff/Child Ratio: The ratio was maintained during today’s visit. CPR: Mrs. Speach and Ms. Little have current CPR. First Aid: Mrs. Speach and Ms. Little have current First Aid. Special Training: Mrs. Speach and Ms. Little are continuing to complete ongoing training. CBC Qualification: Staff are current with CBC qualification; three (3) other family members that reside in the home are current with CBC. ITS-SIDS: Staff's ITS-SIDS training certificates were current and the safe sleep poster was posted. The safe sleep logs were reviewed and compliance was met. Emergency Medical Care Plan: The Emergency Care Plan was posted. Administration of Medication: Medication Administration was reviewed and compliance was met. Storage of Hazardous Substances: I did not observe any hazardous substances that were accessible, they were observed stored properly during the visit. Storage of Medication: The medication was properly stored. General Safety: There were no safety concerns. Discipline: There were no discipline concerns; appropriate discipline was provided. Adequate/Approved Space: The children present during the visit was observed in the licensed approved space. Program Records: I reviewed all information required to be posted and found meeting compliance. The monthly fire drill and emergency drill was complete and up to date. The quarterly drill (shelter-in-place) was not up to date, and a violation was cited. The playground inspections were complete and up to date. License Posted: The license was observed posted. Permit Restrictions: All permit restrictions were observed meeting compliance today. The last Sanitation Inspection was completed February 3, 2023, with six (6) demerits. One (1) violation was cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 1854 The operator did not conduct a quarterly lockdown or shelter-in-place drill and or the drill record was incomplete. The shelter-in-place drills were completed January 2023, April 2023, and July 2023; drill not completed for October 2023. .1719(a )(16) & .1721(e )(7) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before November 29, 2023, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 756 Gastonia, NC 28053 Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov The following Technical Assistance (TA) was provided: -Continue to review emails from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) and from your assigned child care consultant. -House Bill 103: Effective July 11, 2022, individuals have five (5) years to renew their criminal record check instead of every three (3) years. -On June 12th, Governor Cooper signed Senate Bill 291, extending the Child Care Hold Harmless legislation until June 30, 2024, and requiring the North Carolina Child Care Commission to make recommendations for modernizing the state’s Quality Rating and Improvement System. -NCDHHS Children’s Environmental Health has conducted a series of virtual trainings on the recently re-adopted Child Care Sanitation Rules, effective July 1, 2023. -Your facility has been assigned to Cohort 2: Prep year 7/1/24-6/30/25, Reassessment year 7/1/25-6/30/26. Please refer to the link for additional information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/Resuming-Star-Rated-License. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed and signed, and a copy was emailed to you. Contact me at Deanna Matthews, Child Care Consultant, (704-962-7854), Deanna.Matthews@dhhs.nc.gov or Michele Sullivan, Licensing Supervisor, (704-594-0147), Michele.Sullivan@dhhs.nc.gov, if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.
Open Not marked corrected in the state record
Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.