Brighter Minds Childcare

10A NCAC 09 .1724 · Violation

Name of Operation: BRIGHTER MINDS CHILDCARE Facility ID: 32002108 Consultant: MANDY ANNUNZIATA Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 1/7/2026 Number Present: 4 Completed Date: 1/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 3 Total Minutes: 95 Time In: 10:40 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor applicable child care requirements during your routine unannounced visit. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the provider, Regina Breeze Cain, who assisted me during the visit. LICENSE STATUS The family child care home currently operates with a Two Star License issued on February 7, 2020. The program received two points for Program Standards, three points for Staff Education, and one Quality Point. INSPECTIONS/DRILLS STATUS -The last documented outdoor play area inspection was completed on 11/10/25. -The last documented fire drill was conducted on 11/10/25. -The last documented lockdown/shelter-in-place drill was conducted on 9/3/25. -The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 7/15/25. MONITORING I completed a walk-through of the home, visiting the caregiving space and bathroom. Four children were present, ranging in age from 10 months to three years old. The children were observed looking at books, eating lunch, and resting. Lunch consisted of spaghetti, corn, apple slices, and whole wheat bread. A partial assessment of child care requirements was conducted. I monitored all applicable requirements, including but not limited to supervision, staff-child ratios, health and safety requirements, equipment and furnishings, and program records. Newly enrolled children’s records also were reviewed. No enrolled children have medications or medical care plans, so these requirements were not monitored. Children 12 months of age or younger are enrolled; therefore, safe sleep requirements were monitored and a violation was cited. INDOOR/OUTDOOR SPACE Children are cared for in a converted garage, and a variety of materials are available for play, including blocks, manipulatives, books, and art materials. A bathroom and changing table are located just outside the children’s play space. Portable cribs and cots are used for rest time. The backyard is fenced with a variety of gross motor equipment. VIOLATIONS The following violations were observed and documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 714 Monthly check for hazards on the outdoor play area was not completed using a form supplied by the Division. No outdoor inspection was documented in December 2025. 10A NCAC .1721(e)(5)(A-F) 1306 Operator has not completed ITS-SIDS training every three years from the completion date of the previous ITS-SIDS training. The provider's ITS-SIDS training expired on 10/7/25 and has not been renewed. .1703(a)(4) 1810 Operator did not retain the safe sleep acknowledgement in the child's records as long as the child was enrolled. A newly enrolled infant did not have a signed safe sleep policy in their file. 10A NCAC 09 .1724(c) 1853 The operator did not conduct a monthly fire drill. No fire drill was documented in December 2025. .1719(a)(15) & .1721( e)(2) 1854 The operator did not conduct a quarterly lockdown or shelter-in-place drill and or the drill record was incomplete. The last quarterly lockdown or shelter-in-place drill was conducted in September 2025. No drill was documented when it was due in December 2025. .1719(a )(16) & .1721(e )(7) 1922 Plastic bags, toys, and toy parts small enough to be swallowed, including but not limited to materials that can be easily torn apart such as foam rubber and styrofoam, were accessible to children under the age of three. Plastic bags were within children's reach in an unlocked storage cabinet in the caregiving space. .1719(a)(18) 2012 Individual who provides care for 5 hours or more a week, did not complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training. The provider completed training in 2018 but has not renewed it within the last five years. .1729(a)(9) C4 In order to comply with the NC Laws and Rules, any violations documented today must be corrected immediately. I need to receive your compliance letter by January 21, 2026. The letter must address each violation and explain how it has been corrected. Please send this to mandy.annunziata@dhhs.nc.gov and include the following information: -Facility name -Facility ID number -Each item number COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today’s visit, the provider’s compliance history score was 89%. According to NC General Statute 110-90(4)(d), all facilities must maintain a compliance history of at least 75% for the past 18 months. Failure to maintain compliance may result in an administrative action. The FCCH was not in compliance with all applicable minimum licensing requirements during today’s visit and violations were documented that could impact the provider’s overall compliance history score. An updated compliance history score will be generated after today’s visit, and you will be informed of the results during the next visit to your facility. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE -Providers who are licensed to care for infants must renew their ITS-SIDS training every three years. Your training expired on 10/7/25 and needs to be renewed immediately. You can check the Early Years (formerly CCSA) website at https://www.earlyyearsnc.org to sign up for a renewal class. -“Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment” (part of the Health and Safety Training) should be renewed every five years. You last completed this training in 2018, so you are past due to renew it. This training can be found on the Positive Child Alliance NC website: https://preventchildabusenc.org/online-trainings/ -Safety is a top priority when providing care for young children. Today I observed plastic bags within reach of children in your unlocked storage cabinets, which poses a suffocation and choking hazard for the babies and toddlers in your care. You stated that you thought they were acceptable because they were being used to store clothes and changing pads, and you had knotted the tops of the bags. I suggest conducting a walk-through of the children’s space prior to children’s arrival each morning, removing any potential hazards and placing them at least five feet high. -Emergency drills, such as fire drills and lockdown/shelter-in-place drills, must be conducted in a timely manner because they allow staff and children to practice and prepare for an actual emergency. Today, your drill log showed a lapse in required practice drills because no drills were conducted in December 2025. Fire drills must be conducted at least once per month, and a shelter-in-place/lockdown drill must be conducted at least once per quarter (every three months). I suggest setting a reminder on your calendar to help you maintain compliance with this rule. -Monthly outdoor inspections should be completed to ensure that children have a safe place to play. Any hazards should be removed or repaired promptly. No outdoor inspection had been conducted in December 2025. I recommend completing the inspections on the same day of each month (for example, the first day of each month) to help you remember when inspections are due. -A newly enrolled infant’s file was incomplete today. It was missing a signed safe sleep policy. You said you thought the parent had completed all the required forms. To ensure you have all forms, I recommend collecting them from the parent before you begin caring for the child. You can also use the children’s file checklist available on the DCDEE website under the “Provider” tab. CONSULTATION -We discussed the new licensure pathway options and I showed you how to access the QRIS information on the DCDEE website. You stated that you are considering Pathway #2 at this point. -Criminal Backgrounds Checks for all providers should be completed every five years. Your qualification letter expires in two weeks (on January 22, 2026), so you should renew your background check immediately. To access the background check portal, go to https://ncabcms.nc.gov/DCDEE/Applicant. You may also contact the CBC Unit via telephone (919) 814-6401 or by email DHHS.CBC.Unit@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions or need assistance. Providers may request new background checks up to six months in advance of their qualifying letter’s expiration date. -The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids Program provides free facility-wide testing for lead in water and inspections for asbestos and lead-based paint hazards without any out-of-pocket costs. You have enrolled in the program but no samples have been submitted for testing. Please visit www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/carolina to complete this process. Providers are required to test for lead in drinking water per Child Care Rule .1725. -You can access and update your EPR plan by using your NCID to log into the North Carolina Risk Management Portal at https://rmp.nc.gov/portal/portal.aspx. Please review and update your EPR plan yearly. TRAINING REMINDERS -CPR and First Aid must be renewed every two years. Your certification is valid until 8/13/26. -Health and Safety Training must be renewed every five years. You can find this training in Moodle on the DCDEE website. -You will need to complete 10 ongoing training hours prior to your next annual compliance visit (ITS-SIDS as well as Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment will both count toward this requirement). -If you choose to pursue 4 stars for your education rating, you will need to complete 1.5 CEUs prior to your rated license assessment in July. One place to find CEU credits is the Southwestern Child Development Commission website: https://www.swcdcinc.org/ RATED LICENSE STATUS The NC State Legislature has extended “hold harmless” status until new rated licensing guidelines are in place, and you may opt to keep your current license and delay your rated license assessment until the new guidelines are adopted. Please use this time to update your WORKS account with your education information. You can visit the North Carolina Rated License Project website (https://www.ncrlap.org) for resources regarding the rated license assessment process. AGENCY UPDATES Please check the Division of Child Development and Early Education’s website frequently for any new policies or rules. Go to https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, and click on the “What’s New” tab for all agency updates, including QRIS Modernization. I recommend exploring the new pathway options to obtain a rated license. New QRIS rules are in effect, and the Division is preparing for a gradual transition to the new requirements. Resources, forms, and training will be provided to support you in preparing for new options to earn your Two- through Five-Star Rated License. All the newest information will be posted at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization and will also be provided through emails and Raise NC newsletters. CONTACT INFORMATION If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact me at (919) 971-6255 or mandy.annunziata@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: BRIGHTER MINDS CHILDCARE Facility ID: 32002108 Consultant: MANDY ANNUNZIATA Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 1/24/2025 Number Present: 4 Completed Date: 1/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 2 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor applicable child care requirements during your routine unannounced visit. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the provider, Regina Cain, who assisted me during the visit. LICENSE STATUS The family child care home currently operates with a Two Star License issued on February 7, 2020. The program received two points for Program Standards, three points for Staff Education, and one quality point. INSPECTIONS/DRILLS STATUS -The last documented outdoor play area inspection was completed on 12/3/24. -The last documented fire drill was conducted on 12/3/24. -The last documented lockdown/shelter-in-place drill was conducted on 12/3/24. -The last annual compliance visit was conducted on 7/29/24. MONITORING I completed a walk-through of the home, visiting the caregiving space, bathroom, and outdoor play area. Four children were present, ranging in age from six months to two years old. The toddler children were playing freely with materials, reading books, getting diapers changed, eating lunch, and transitioning to rest time. The infant was sleeping, sitting in a baby swing, and being given a bottle by the caregiver. Lunch for the older children consisted of hot dogs, bread, broccoli, and milk. A partial assessment of child care requirements was conducted. I monitored all applicable requirements, including but not limited to supervision, staff-child ratios, health and safety requirements, equipment and furnishings, and program records. No enrolled children have medications or medical care plans, so these requirements were not monitored. A child 12 months of age or younger is enrolled; therefore, safe sleep requirements were monitored. INDOOR/OUTDOOR SPACE In the home, children are cared for in a converted garage. A variety of materials are available for learning through play, including blocks, vehicles, books, home living props, and puzzles. A bathroom and changing table are located just outside the caregiving space. Cots and a pack 'n' play are used for rest time. The backyard is fenced with a variety of toys for gross motor play as well as a large sandbox. VIOLATIONS The following violations were observed and documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 543 Screen time was not prohibited for children under the age of three. The operator did not offer alternative activities for children under the age of three years. A tv screen was on and playing a cartoon in the caregiving space. All children present were under the age of three years old. .1718(c) 919 Accurate records were not maintained for all staff and children. A child enrolled on 10/2/24 did not have a file available for review. G.S. 110-91(9) 1821 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of 30 days. No sleep log was available for review for the month of January 2025. .1724(a)(8)&(f) 1940 Hazardous cleaning supplies and other items that might be poisonous e.g. toxic plants, were not out of reach or in locked storage when children were in care. Glass cleaner was stored on a countertop that was not five feet above the floor. .1719(a)(6) 1943 An infant was observed sleeping in a seating device. An infant was observed sleeping in a swing and was not moved to a crib. .1724(a)(11) In order to comply with the NC Laws and Rules, any violations documented today must be corrected immediately. I need to receive your compliance letter by February 5, 2025. The letter must address each violation and explain how it has been corrected. Please send this to mandy.annunziata@dhhs.nc.gov and include the following information: -Facility name -Facility ID number -Each item number COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today’s visit, the provider’s compliance history score was 94%. According to NC General Statute 110-90(4)(d), all facilities must maintain a compliance history of at least 75% for the past 18 months. Failure to maintain compliance may result in an administrative action. The FCCH was not in compliance with all applicable minimum licensing requirements during today’s visit and violations were documented that could impact the provider’s overall compliance history score. An updated compliance history score will be generated after today’s visit, and you will be informed of the results during the next visit to your facility. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE -Screen time, including watching tv, is prohibited for all children in child care under the age of three. After age three, 30 minutes of screen time per day are allowed with a maximum of 2.5 hours per week. Today a tv screen in the child care space was playing a cartoon when I arrived. You turned off the screen after about five minutes. You stated that you had been told by a TA from Early Years that 15 minutes was allowed each day. I referred you to the child care rule prohibiting screen time for children under three years old. -Today I observed an infant sleeping in a swing when I arrived for my visit. The infant awakened after approximately 15 minutes and remained in the swing for the next 45 minutes playing with a teether and watching the other children. You stated that you usually take the infant out for tummy time while the older children are napping. I let you know that best practice indicates that you bring toys to children who are unable to move on their own, and that infants should not remain in a device longer than about 15 minutes while awake. If a baby falls asleep in a device, they should immediately be moved to a crib to finish their nap. -Record keeping is an important piece of a FCCH operation. A child's application and medical information are vital information to have in the event of an emergency. Today, an infant was missing all the required paperwork for enrollment. To ensure each child’s file is complete, you may reference the children’s file checklist available on the DCDEE website under the “Provider Documents and Forms” tab. Requiring all forms at the time of enrollment will help you stay in compliance. -When caring for infants, it’s important to follow safe sleep practices because the consequences for failing to follow procedures can be life-threatening. One required component of safe sleep policy is visually checking infants every 15 minutes and documenting these sleep checks on a sleep log, which must be retained for 30 days. Today, the logs from January 2025 were not available for review and the sleep checks could not be verified. You stated that you do keep sleep logs but could not find the one for this month. You provided the logs for October-December 2024. -Safety is a top priority when providing care for young children. Today I observed a cleaning product on a counter potentially within reach of children. I suggest conducting a walk-through of the children’s space prior to children’s arrival each morning, removing any hazards and placing them at least five feet high. CONSULTATION -Be especially aware of foods that might become choking hazards for the toddlers in your care. Foods such as hot dogs, carrots, and grapes should be sliced lengthwise before serving (not cut into circles). -Criminal Backgrounds Checks for all providers should be completed every five years. Your qualifying letter will expire on 1/22/26. -The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids Program provides free facility-wide testing for lead in water and inspections for asbestos and lead-based paint hazards without any out-of-pocket costs. Visit www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/carolina to enroll. -You can access and update your EPR plan by using your NCID to log into the North Carolina Risk Management Portal at https://rmp.nc.gov/portal/portal.aspx. Please review and update your EPR plan yearly and add my name as your consultant. TRAINING REMINDERS -CPR and First Aid must be renewed every two years. Your training is valid until 8/13/26. -ITS-SIDS training must be renewed every three years. Your training will expire on 10/7/25. -Health and Safety Training must be renewed every five years. You can find this training in Moodle on the DCDEE website. Also, “Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment” (part of the Health and Safety Training) should be renewed every five years. This training can be found on the Prevent Child Abuse NC website: https://preventchildabusenc.org/online-trainings/ RATED LICENSE STATUS The NC State Legislature has extended “hold harmless” status until new rated licensing guidelines are in place, and you may opt to keep your current license and delay your rated license assessment until the new guidelines are adopted. Please use this time to update your WORKS account with your education information. You can visit the North Carolina Rated License Project website (https://www.ncrlap.org) for resources regarding the rated license assessment process. AGENCY UPDATES Please check the Division of Child Development and Early Education’s website frequently for any new policies or rules. Go to https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, and click on the “What’s New” tab for all agency updates. CONTACT INFORMATION If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact me at (919) 971-6255 or mandy.annunziata@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09.1721 · Violation

Name of Operation: BRIGHTER MINDS CHILDCARE Facility ID: 32002108 Consultant: KIA REID Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 7/29/2024 Number Present: 2 Completed Date: 7/29/2024 Age: From 1 To 1 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 11:00 AM Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 01:00 PM List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor applicable child care requirements during your annual compliance visit. I was accompanied by Mandy Annunziata, Child Care Consultant. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the provider, Regina Cain, who assisted us during today’s visit. LICENSE STATUS The family child care home currently operates with a two-star license issued on February 7, 2020. The program received three points for staff education, two points for program standards, and one quality point for serving no more than two children under one year of age. INSPECTIONS/DRILLS STATUS -The last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 15, 2023. -The last documented monthly outdoor play area inspection was completed on April 4, 2024. -The last documented monthly fire drill was conducted on April 2, 2024. -The last documented quarterly lockdown/shelter-in-place drill was conducted on March 4, 2024. MONITORING We completed a walk-through of the home, including the children’s space, kitchen, bathroom, and outdoor play area. At the time of the visit, there were two children one year of age present. The children were observed engaging in free play activities, diaper changing, and eating snack. A full assessment of child care requirements was conducted. I used a checklist to monitor all applicable requirements, including but not limited to supervision, capacity, health and safety requirements, equipment and furnishings, and program records. The provider does not transport children; therefore, this requirement was not monitored. No children 12 months or younger are enrolled; therefore, safe sleep requirements were not monitored. The provider verified that all the information on the FCCH Verification of Required Information for Operator and Additional Caregivers form was correct. INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT Inside the home, children are cared for in the converted garage. A variety of items for learning through play are available, including manipulatives, blocks, books, art materials, and home living props. The bathroom and changing table are located just outside of the children’s play area. The outdoor play area is a fenced backyard with a variety of gross motor equipment. The following violations were cited and documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 All medicines, including refrigerated and unrefrigerated, were not kept in locked storage. Personal medication for a relative was in the child care space not in locked storage. .1719(a)(5) 714 Monthly check for hazards on the outdoor play area was not completed using a form supplied by the Division. The last outdoor inspection was completed on 4/2/24. 10A NCAC .1721(e)(5)(A-F) 904 Documentation of the operator’s emergency medical care plan to follow in the event of a child medical emergency, was not on file and available for review. This was not on file. .1713 908 Health questionnaire was not completed annually. The last documented health questionnaire on file was completed 10/5/22. .1703(a)(1) 910 Copy of each child's health assessment, including the operator's own preschool child(ren), was not on file within 30 days of enrollment. Two children currently enrolled did not have this information on file. GS 110-91(1); 10A NCAC 09.1721(a)(1) 911 Copy of each child's immunization record, including the operator's own preschool child(ren), was not on file. Two children currently enrolled did not have this information on file. GS 110-91(1); .1721(a)(2) 919 Accurate records were not maintained for all staff and children. One child currently enrolled did not the following records on file: application, receipt of discipline form, receipt of written plan of care, receipt of summary of child care law, receipt of operational policies. G.S. 110-91(9) 921 Operator did not maintain accurate daily attendance records including documentation of arrival and departure for all children in care, including the operator's own preschool children. Daily attendance records were not available for review. .1721(e)(6) 1705 Summary of the NC Child Care Law was not posted with the facility's license in a prominent place in the home. This was not posted in the fcch today. GS 110-102 1853 The operator did not conduct a monthly fire drill The last documented fire drill was conducted on 4/2/24. .1719(a)(15) & .1721( e)(2) 1854 The operator did not conduct a quarterly lockdown or shelter-in-place drill and or the drill record was incomplete. The last drill was conducted on 3/4/24. .1719(a )(16) & .1721(e )(7) 1922 Plastic bags, toys, and toy parts small enough to be swallowed, including but not limited to materials that can be easily torn apart such as foam rubber and styrofoam, were accessible to children under the age of three. Plastic bags were stored in unlocked cabinets accessible to the children under the age of three. .1719(a)(18) 2027 The professional development plan was not maintained in the personnel file. This was not completed. .1703(i)(5) 2031 Operator did not provide a copy of the shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma policy to parents at time of enrollment, and / or within fourteen days of a changes to the policy. Two children currently enrolled did not have this information on file. .1726(b)&(c) In order to comply with the NC Laws and Rules, any violations documented today must be corrected immediately. I need to receive your compliance letter by August 12, 2024. The letter must address each violation and explain specifically when and how it was corrected, as well as how you will prevent the same violations from happening in the future. Please send this to mandy.annunziata@dhhs.nc.gov and include the following information: -Facility name -Facility ID number -Each item number COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today’s visit, the facility’s compliance history score was 97%. According to NC General Statute 110-90(4)(d), all facilities must maintain a compliance history of at least 75% for the past 18 months. Failure to maintain compliance may result in an administrative action. The facility was not in compliance with all applicable minimum licensing requirements during today’s visit and violations were documented that could impact the center’s overall compliance history score. An updated compliance history score will be generated after today’s visit, and you will be informed of the results during the next visit to your program. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE -Safety is a top priority when providing care for young children. Today I observed plastic grocery bags and disposable plastic gloves within reach of children in the diaper changing area, which poses a suffocation and choking hazard for the toddlers in your care. I suggest conducting a walk-through of the children’s space prior to children’s arrival each morning, removing any potentials choking hazards and placing them at least five feet high. -Providers are required to keep daily attendance records for all children in their care, including drop-off and pick-up times. Accurate attendance records show that you remain in compliance with child care ratios and also provide a list of children present in the event of an emergency. I recommend placing the attendance log next to the front door for parents (or you) to sign children in and out each day. -I suggest conducting all your drills and inspections on the same day of each month (for example, the 15th of every month) to help you easily remember when everything is due. -To ensure each child’s file is complete, you should use the children’s file checklist available on the DCDEE website in “Provider Documents and Forms” under the “Provider” tab. -Health and safety training must be renewed every five years. Your training expired in 2023. CONSULTATION -The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids Program provides free facility-wide testing for lead in water and inspections for asbestos and lead-based paint hazards without any out-of-pocket costs. Visit www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/carolina to enroll by November 1, 2024. TRAINING REMINDERS -Training from August 15, 2023, to July 29, 2024, was reviewed today and documented on the Verification of Required Information for Operator and Additional Caregivers form. All required training hours should be completed by June 2025. -CPR and First Aid must be renewed every two years. Your CPR and First Aid expires on 10/08/2024. RATED LICENSE STATUS The NC State Legislature has extended “hold harmless” status until new rated licensing guidelines are in place, and you may opt to keep your current license and delay your rated license assessment until the new guidelines are adopted. Please use this time to update your WORKS account with your education information. You can visit the North Carolina Rated License Project website (https://www.ncrlap.org) for resources regarding the rated license assessment process and the FCCH self-study. AGENCY UPDATES Please check the Division of Child Development and Early Education’s website frequently for any new policies or rules. Go to https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, and click on the “What’s New” tab for all agency updates. 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: BRIGHTER MINDS CHILDCARE Facility ID: 32002108 Consultant: KIA REID Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 7/29/2024 Number Present: 2 Completed Date: 7/29/2024 Age: From 1 To 1 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 11:00 AM Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 01:00 PM List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor applicable child care requirements during your annual compliance visit. I was accompanied by Mandy Annunziata, Child Care Consultant. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the provider, Regina Cain, who assisted us during today’s visit. LICENSE STATUS The family child care home currently operates with a two-star license issued on February 7, 2020. The program received three points for staff education, two points for program standards, and one quality point for serving no more than two children under one year of age. INSPECTIONS/DRILLS STATUS -The last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 15, 2023. -The last documented monthly outdoor play area inspection was completed on April 4, 2024. -The last documented monthly fire drill was conducted on April 2, 2024. -The last documented quarterly lockdown/shelter-in-place drill was conducted on March 4, 2024. MONITORING We completed a walk-through of the home, including the children’s space, kitchen, bathroom, and outdoor play area. At the time of the visit, there were two children one year of age present. The children were observed engaging in free play activities, diaper changing, and eating snack. A full assessment of child care requirements was conducted. I used a checklist to monitor all applicable requirements, including but not limited to supervision, capacity, health and safety requirements, equipment and furnishings, and program records. The provider does not transport children; therefore, this requirement was not monitored. No children 12 months or younger are enrolled; therefore, safe sleep requirements were not monitored. The provider verified that all the information on the FCCH Verification of Required Information for Operator and Additional Caregivers form was correct. INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT Inside the home, children are cared for in the converted garage. A variety of items for learning through play are available, including manipulatives, blocks, books, art materials, and home living props. The bathroom and changing table are located just outside of the children’s play area. The outdoor play area is a fenced backyard with a variety of gross motor equipment. The following violations were cited and documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 All medicines, including refrigerated and unrefrigerated, were not kept in locked storage. Personal medication for a relative was in the child care space not in locked storage. .1719(a)(5) 714 Monthly check for hazards on the outdoor play area was not completed using a form supplied by the Division. The last outdoor inspection was completed on 4/2/24. 10A NCAC .1721(e)(5)(A-F) 904 Documentation of the operator’s emergency medical care plan to follow in the event of a child medical emergency, was not on file and available for review. This was not on file. .1713 908 Health questionnaire was not completed annually. The last documented health questionnaire on file was completed 10/5/22. .1703(a)(1) 910 Copy of each child's health assessment, including the operator's own preschool child(ren), was not on file within 30 days of enrollment. Two children currently enrolled did not have this information on file. GS 110-91(1); 10A NCAC 09.1721(a)(1) 911 Copy of each child's immunization record, including the operator's own preschool child(ren), was not on file. Two children currently enrolled did not have this information on file. GS 110-91(1); .1721(a)(2) 919 Accurate records were not maintained for all staff and children. One child currently enrolled did not the following records on file: application, receipt of discipline form, receipt of written plan of care, receipt of summary of child care law, receipt of operational policies. G.S. 110-91(9) 921 Operator did not maintain accurate daily attendance records including documentation of arrival and departure for all children in care, including the operator's own preschool children. Daily attendance records were not available for review. .1721(e)(6) 1705 Summary of the NC Child Care Law was not posted with the facility's license in a prominent place in the home. This was not posted in the fcch today. GS 110-102 1853 The operator did not conduct a monthly fire drill The last documented fire drill was conducted on 4/2/24. .1719(a)(15) & .1721( e)(2) 1854 The operator did not conduct a quarterly lockdown or shelter-in-place drill and or the drill record was incomplete. The last drill was conducted on 3/4/24. .1719(a )(16) & .1721(e )(7) 1922 Plastic bags, toys, and toy parts small enough to be swallowed, including but not limited to materials that can be easily torn apart such as foam rubber and styrofoam, were accessible to children under the age of three. Plastic bags were stored in unlocked cabinets accessible to the children under the age of three. .1719(a)(18) 2027 The professional development plan was not maintained in the personnel file. This was not completed. .1703(i)(5) 2031 Operator did not provide a copy of the shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma policy to parents at time of enrollment, and / or within fourteen days of a changes to the policy. Two children currently enrolled did not have this information on file. .1726(b)&(c) In order to comply with the NC Laws and Rules, any violations documented today must be corrected immediately. I need to receive your compliance letter by August 12, 2024. The letter must address each violation and explain specifically when and how it was corrected, as well as how you will prevent the same violations from happening in the future. Please send this to mandy.annunziata@dhhs.nc.gov and include the following information: -Facility name -Facility ID number -Each item number COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today’s visit, the facility’s compliance history score was 97%. According to NC General Statute 110-90(4)(d), all facilities must maintain a compliance history of at least 75% for the past 18 months. Failure to maintain compliance may result in an administrative action. The facility was not in compliance with all applicable minimum licensing requirements during today’s visit and violations were documented that could impact the center’s overall compliance history score. An updated compliance history score will be generated after today’s visit, and you will be informed of the results during the next visit to your program. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE -Safety is a top priority when providing care for young children. Today I observed plastic grocery bags and disposable plastic gloves within reach of children in the diaper changing area, which poses a suffocation and choking hazard for the toddlers in your care. I suggest conducting a walk-through of the children’s space prior to children’s arrival each morning, removing any potentials choking hazards and placing them at least five feet high. -Providers are required to keep daily attendance records for all children in their care, including drop-off and pick-up times. Accurate attendance records show that you remain in compliance with child care ratios and also provide a list of children present in the event of an emergency. I recommend placing the attendance log next to the front door for parents (or you) to sign children in and out each day. -I suggest conducting all your drills and inspections on the same day of each month (for example, the 15th of every month) to help you easily remember when everything is due. -To ensure each child’s file is complete, you should use the children’s file checklist available on the DCDEE website in “Provider Documents and Forms” under the “Provider” tab. -Health and safety training must be renewed every five years. Your training expired in 2023. CONSULTATION -The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids Program provides free facility-wide testing for lead in water and inspections for asbestos and lead-based paint hazards without any out-of-pocket costs. Visit www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/carolina to enroll by November 1, 2024. TRAINING REMINDERS -Training from August 15, 2023, to July 29, 2024, was reviewed today and documented on the Verification of Required Information for Operator and Additional Caregivers form. All required training hours should be completed by June 2025. -CPR and First Aid must be renewed every two years. Your CPR and First Aid expires on 10/08/2024. RATED LICENSE STATUS The NC State Legislature has extended “hold harmless” status until new rated licensing guidelines are in place, and you may opt to keep your current license and delay your rated license assessment until the new guidelines are adopted. Please use this time to update your WORKS account with your education information. You can visit the North Carolina Rated License Project website (https://www.ncrlap.org) for resources regarding the rated license assessment process and the FCCH self-study. AGENCY UPDATES Please check the Division of Child Development and Early Education’s website frequently for any new policies or rules. Go to https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, and click on the “What’s New” tab for all agency updates. 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 110-102 · Violation

Name of Operation: BRIGHTER MINDS CHILDCARE Facility ID: 32002108 Consultant: KIA REID Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 7/29/2024 Number Present: 2 Completed Date: 7/29/2024 Age: From 1 To 1 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 11:00 AM Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 01:00 PM List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor applicable child care requirements during your annual compliance visit. I was accompanied by Mandy Annunziata, Child Care Consultant. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the provider, Regina Cain, who assisted us during today’s visit. LICENSE STATUS The family child care home currently operates with a two-star license issued on February 7, 2020. The program received three points for staff education, two points for program standards, and one quality point for serving no more than two children under one year of age. INSPECTIONS/DRILLS STATUS -The last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 15, 2023. -The last documented monthly outdoor play area inspection was completed on April 4, 2024. -The last documented monthly fire drill was conducted on April 2, 2024. -The last documented quarterly lockdown/shelter-in-place drill was conducted on March 4, 2024. MONITORING We completed a walk-through of the home, including the children’s space, kitchen, bathroom, and outdoor play area. At the time of the visit, there were two children one year of age present. The children were observed engaging in free play activities, diaper changing, and eating snack. A full assessment of child care requirements was conducted. I used a checklist to monitor all applicable requirements, including but not limited to supervision, capacity, health and safety requirements, equipment and furnishings, and program records. The provider does not transport children; therefore, this requirement was not monitored. No children 12 months or younger are enrolled; therefore, safe sleep requirements were not monitored. The provider verified that all the information on the FCCH Verification of Required Information for Operator and Additional Caregivers form was correct. INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT Inside the home, children are cared for in the converted garage. A variety of items for learning through play are available, including manipulatives, blocks, books, art materials, and home living props. The bathroom and changing table are located just outside of the children’s play area. The outdoor play area is a fenced backyard with a variety of gross motor equipment. The following violations were cited and documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 All medicines, including refrigerated and unrefrigerated, were not kept in locked storage. Personal medication for a relative was in the child care space not in locked storage. .1719(a)(5) 714 Monthly check for hazards on the outdoor play area was not completed using a form supplied by the Division. The last outdoor inspection was completed on 4/2/24. 10A NCAC .1721(e)(5)(A-F) 904 Documentation of the operator’s emergency medical care plan to follow in the event of a child medical emergency, was not on file and available for review. This was not on file. .1713 908 Health questionnaire was not completed annually. The last documented health questionnaire on file was completed 10/5/22. .1703(a)(1) 910 Copy of each child's health assessment, including the operator's own preschool child(ren), was not on file within 30 days of enrollment. Two children currently enrolled did not have this information on file. GS 110-91(1); 10A NCAC 09.1721(a)(1) 911 Copy of each child's immunization record, including the operator's own preschool child(ren), was not on file. Two children currently enrolled did not have this information on file. GS 110-91(1); .1721(a)(2) 919 Accurate records were not maintained for all staff and children. One child currently enrolled did not the following records on file: application, receipt of discipline form, receipt of written plan of care, receipt of summary of child care law, receipt of operational policies. G.S. 110-91(9) 921 Operator did not maintain accurate daily attendance records including documentation of arrival and departure for all children in care, including the operator's own preschool children. Daily attendance records were not available for review. .1721(e)(6) 1705 Summary of the NC Child Care Law was not posted with the facility's license in a prominent place in the home. This was not posted in the fcch today. GS 110-102 1853 The operator did not conduct a monthly fire drill The last documented fire drill was conducted on 4/2/24. .1719(a)(15) & .1721( e)(2) 1854 The operator did not conduct a quarterly lockdown or shelter-in-place drill and or the drill record was incomplete. The last drill was conducted on 3/4/24. .1719(a )(16) & .1721(e )(7) 1922 Plastic bags, toys, and toy parts small enough to be swallowed, including but not limited to materials that can be easily torn apart such as foam rubber and styrofoam, were accessible to children under the age of three. Plastic bags were stored in unlocked cabinets accessible to the children under the age of three. .1719(a)(18) 2027 The professional development plan was not maintained in the personnel file. This was not completed. .1703(i)(5) 2031 Operator did not provide a copy of the shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma policy to parents at time of enrollment, and / or within fourteen days of a changes to the policy. Two children currently enrolled did not have this information on file. .1726(b)&(c) In order to comply with the NC Laws and Rules, any violations documented today must be corrected immediately. I need to receive your compliance letter by August 12, 2024. The letter must address each violation and explain specifically when and how it was corrected, as well as how you will prevent the same violations from happening in the future. Please send this to mandy.annunziata@dhhs.nc.gov and include the following information: -Facility name -Facility ID number -Each item number COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today’s visit, the facility’s compliance history score was 97%. According to NC General Statute 110-90(4)(d), all facilities must maintain a compliance history of at least 75% for the past 18 months. Failure to maintain compliance may result in an administrative action. The facility was not in compliance with all applicable minimum licensing requirements during today’s visit and violations were documented that could impact the center’s overall compliance history score. An updated compliance history score will be generated after today’s visit, and you will be informed of the results during the next visit to your program. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE -Safety is a top priority when providing care for young children. Today I observed plastic grocery bags and disposable plastic gloves within reach of children in the diaper changing area, which poses a suffocation and choking hazard for the toddlers in your care. I suggest conducting a walk-through of the children’s space prior to children’s arrival each morning, removing any potentials choking hazards and placing them at least five feet high. -Providers are required to keep daily attendance records for all children in their care, including drop-off and pick-up times. Accurate attendance records show that you remain in compliance with child care ratios and also provide a list of children present in the event of an emergency. I recommend placing the attendance log next to the front door for parents (or you) to sign children in and out each day. -I suggest conducting all your drills and inspections on the same day of each month (for example, the 15th of every month) to help you easily remember when everything is due. -To ensure each child’s file is complete, you should use the children’s file checklist available on the DCDEE website in “Provider Documents and Forms” under the “Provider” tab. -Health and safety training must be renewed every five years. Your training expired in 2023. CONSULTATION -The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids Program provides free facility-wide testing for lead in water and inspections for asbestos and lead-based paint hazards without any out-of-pocket costs. Visit www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/carolina to enroll by November 1, 2024. TRAINING REMINDERS -Training from August 15, 2023, to July 29, 2024, was reviewed today and documented on the Verification of Required Information for Operator and Additional Caregivers form. All required training hours should be completed by June 2025. -CPR and First Aid must be renewed every two years. Your CPR and First Aid expires on 10/08/2024. RATED LICENSE STATUS The NC State Legislature has extended “hold harmless” status until new rated licensing guidelines are in place, and you may opt to keep your current license and delay your rated license assessment until the new guidelines are adopted. Please use this time to update your WORKS account with your education information. You can visit the North Carolina Rated License Project website (https://www.ncrlap.org) for resources regarding the rated license assessment process and the FCCH self-study. AGENCY UPDATES Please check the Division of Child Development and Early Education’s website frequently for any new policies or rules. Go to https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, and click on the “What’s New” tab for all agency updates. 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: BRIGHTER MINDS CHILDCARE Facility ID: 32002108 Consultant: KIA REID Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 7/29/2024 Number Present: 2 Completed Date: 7/29/2024 Age: From 1 To 1 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 11:00 AM Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 01:00 PM List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor applicable child care requirements during your annual compliance visit. I was accompanied by Mandy Annunziata, Child Care Consultant. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the provider, Regina Cain, who assisted us during today’s visit. LICENSE STATUS The family child care home currently operates with a two-star license issued on February 7, 2020. The program received three points for staff education, two points for program standards, and one quality point for serving no more than two children under one year of age. INSPECTIONS/DRILLS STATUS -The last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 15, 2023. -The last documented monthly outdoor play area inspection was completed on April 4, 2024. -The last documented monthly fire drill was conducted on April 2, 2024. -The last documented quarterly lockdown/shelter-in-place drill was conducted on March 4, 2024. MONITORING We completed a walk-through of the home, including the children’s space, kitchen, bathroom, and outdoor play area. At the time of the visit, there were two children one year of age present. The children were observed engaging in free play activities, diaper changing, and eating snack. A full assessment of child care requirements was conducted. I used a checklist to monitor all applicable requirements, including but not limited to supervision, capacity, health and safety requirements, equipment and furnishings, and program records. The provider does not transport children; therefore, this requirement was not monitored. No children 12 months or younger are enrolled; therefore, safe sleep requirements were not monitored. The provider verified that all the information on the FCCH Verification of Required Information for Operator and Additional Caregivers form was correct. INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT Inside the home, children are cared for in the converted garage. A variety of items for learning through play are available, including manipulatives, blocks, books, art materials, and home living props. The bathroom and changing table are located just outside of the children’s play area. The outdoor play area is a fenced backyard with a variety of gross motor equipment. The following violations were cited and documented during today’s visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 705 All medicines, including refrigerated and unrefrigerated, were not kept in locked storage. Personal medication for a relative was in the child care space not in locked storage. .1719(a)(5) 714 Monthly check for hazards on the outdoor play area was not completed using a form supplied by the Division. The last outdoor inspection was completed on 4/2/24. 10A NCAC .1721(e)(5)(A-F) 904 Documentation of the operator’s emergency medical care plan to follow in the event of a child medical emergency, was not on file and available for review. This was not on file. .1713 908 Health questionnaire was not completed annually. The last documented health questionnaire on file was completed 10/5/22. .1703(a)(1) 910 Copy of each child's health assessment, including the operator's own preschool child(ren), was not on file within 30 days of enrollment. Two children currently enrolled did not have this information on file. GS 110-91(1); 10A NCAC 09.1721(a)(1) 911 Copy of each child's immunization record, including the operator's own preschool child(ren), was not on file. Two children currently enrolled did not have this information on file. GS 110-91(1); .1721(a)(2) 919 Accurate records were not maintained for all staff and children. One child currently enrolled did not the following records on file: application, receipt of discipline form, receipt of written plan of care, receipt of summary of child care law, receipt of operational policies. G.S. 110-91(9) 921 Operator did not maintain accurate daily attendance records including documentation of arrival and departure for all children in care, including the operator's own preschool children. Daily attendance records were not available for review. .1721(e)(6) 1705 Summary of the NC Child Care Law was not posted with the facility's license in a prominent place in the home. This was not posted in the fcch today. GS 110-102 1853 The operator did not conduct a monthly fire drill The last documented fire drill was conducted on 4/2/24. .1719(a)(15) & .1721( e)(2) 1854 The operator did not conduct a quarterly lockdown or shelter-in-place drill and or the drill record was incomplete. The last drill was conducted on 3/4/24. .1719(a )(16) & .1721(e )(7) 1922 Plastic bags, toys, and toy parts small enough to be swallowed, including but not limited to materials that can be easily torn apart such as foam rubber and styrofoam, were accessible to children under the age of three. Plastic bags were stored in unlocked cabinets accessible to the children under the age of three. .1719(a)(18) 2027 The professional development plan was not maintained in the personnel file. This was not completed. .1703(i)(5) 2031 Operator did not provide a copy of the shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma policy to parents at time of enrollment, and / or within fourteen days of a changes to the policy. Two children currently enrolled did not have this information on file. .1726(b)&(c) In order to comply with the NC Laws and Rules, any violations documented today must be corrected immediately. I need to receive your compliance letter by August 12, 2024. The letter must address each violation and explain specifically when and how it was corrected, as well as how you will prevent the same violations from happening in the future. Please send this to mandy.annunziata@dhhs.nc.gov and include the following information: -Facility name -Facility ID number -Each item number COMPLIANCE HISTORY Prior to today’s visit, the facility’s compliance history score was 97%. According to NC General Statute 110-90(4)(d), all facilities must maintain a compliance history of at least 75% for the past 18 months. Failure to maintain compliance may result in an administrative action. The facility was not in compliance with all applicable minimum licensing requirements during today’s visit and violations were documented that could impact the center’s overall compliance history score. An updated compliance history score will be generated after today’s visit, and you will be informed of the results during the next visit to your program. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE -Safety is a top priority when providing care for young children. Today I observed plastic grocery bags and disposable plastic gloves within reach of children in the diaper changing area, which poses a suffocation and choking hazard for the toddlers in your care. I suggest conducting a walk-through of the children’s space prior to children’s arrival each morning, removing any potentials choking hazards and placing them at least five feet high. -Providers are required to keep daily attendance records for all children in their care, including drop-off and pick-up times. Accurate attendance records show that you remain in compliance with child care ratios and also provide a list of children present in the event of an emergency. I recommend placing the attendance log next to the front door for parents (or you) to sign children in and out each day. -I suggest conducting all your drills and inspections on the same day of each month (for example, the 15th of every month) to help you easily remember when everything is due. -To ensure each child’s file is complete, you should use the children’s file checklist available on the DCDEE website in “Provider Documents and Forms” under the “Provider” tab. -Health and safety training must be renewed every five years. Your training expired in 2023. CONSULTATION -The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids Program provides free facility-wide testing for lead in water and inspections for asbestos and lead-based paint hazards without any out-of-pocket costs. Visit www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/carolina to enroll by November 1, 2024. TRAINING REMINDERS -Training from August 15, 2023, to July 29, 2024, was reviewed today and documented on the Verification of Required Information for Operator and Additional Caregivers form. All required training hours should be completed by June 2025. -CPR and First Aid must be renewed every two years. Your CPR and First Aid expires on 10/08/2024. RATED LICENSE STATUS The NC State Legislature has extended “hold harmless” status until new rated licensing guidelines are in place, and you may opt to keep your current license and delay your rated license assessment until the new guidelines are adopted. Please use this time to update your WORKS account with your education information. You can visit the North Carolina Rated License Project website (https://www.ncrlap.org) for resources regarding the rated license assessment process and the FCCH self-study. AGENCY UPDATES Please check the Division of Child Development and Early Education’s website frequently for any new policies or rules. Go to https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/, and click on the “What’s New” tab for all agency updates. 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