Stepping Stones Day Care

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: STEPPING STONES DAY CARE Facility ID: 70000153 Consultant: MICHELLE O'KELLEY Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 3/10/2026 Number Present: 5 Completed Date: 3/10/2026 Age: From 2 To 3 Total Minutes: 129 Time In: 01:11 PM Time Out: 03:20 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 your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. Jennifer Bradshaw Garrett, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me during the visit. The program currently operates with a 4-Star license, issued 10/14/22 earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for serving no more than two children under one year of age. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 11/7/25. The family childcare home’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety-four percent as of 3/9/26. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 3/9/26 and this facility is not currently owned or operated by a corporation. Please contact me prior to any changes regarding ownership of this facility. Five (5) children were present. Upon arrival, the children were resting. Toys and materials are stored for easy access by the children on low lying shelves. Child sized tables and chairs are also available for the children. The outdoor space includes a variety of portable toys, climbing structure, and other materials. The following violation(s) were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 905 Record of monthly fire drills, giving the date, time of day and length of time to evacuate, and operator's signature, were not available. A fire drill was not completed for November 2025 or December 2025. .1721 (e )(2) 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. Three (3) children were documented on the attendance record however there were five (5) children present. .1721(e)(6) 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 3/24/26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Michelle O’Kelley, Child Care Consultant PO Box 56 Jamesville, NC 27846 Michelle.OKelley@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Fire Drills: Fire drills are required to be conducted at least monthly to ensure that all staff and children, are aware of what actions to take in the event of a life-threatening emergency. It is most beneficial for staff and children to become familiar with the sound of the alarm that will go off should a real fire occur. A fire drill was not completed for November 2025 or December 2025. You stated that you completed them but did not write them down. Put a reminder in phone to complete fire drills monthly. Attendance: The health and safety of individual children requires that information regarding each child in care be kept and available when needed. Attendance records should accurately reflect the number of children in care at all times. Three (3) children were documented on the attendance record however there were five (5) children present. Children are to be signed in/out at arrival/departure time. This standard ensures that the facility knows which children are receiving care at any given time including evacuation. Reminders: • Southwestern Child Development Commission has trainings available online at www.swcdcinc.org • Submit your application for Assessment for a Rated License Homes to your consultant by second week of April 2026. Submit Family and Community Engagement Standards along with your Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) and Professional Development (PD) Plan to your consultant the last week of April 2026. Additional Comments: Sex Offender Registry: North Carolina General Statute 14-208 requires sex offenders to register with the North Carolina Department of Justice. The law states that a sex offender shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located. This does not apply to child care centers that are located on or within 1,000 feet of property of an institution of higher education where the registrant is a student or is employed. All licensed child care centers must register to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the center. (§14-208.19) To register for the e-mail notification, go to http://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your local sheriff's department. The Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families / Child Care Resource & Referral is able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on child care issues and the Environment Rating Scales. Their phone number is (252) 333-1233 or check out their website at www.albemarleafc.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Michelle O’Kelley, Child Care Consultant, (252) 508-3955, Michelle.OKelley@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@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

10A NCAC 09.1721 · Violation

Name of Operation: STEPPING STONES DAY CARE Facility ID: 70000153 Consultant: LAKISHA SKINNER Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 11/7/2025 Number Present: 3 Completed Date: 11/7/2025 Age: From 2 To 2 Total Minutes: 200 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced * The purpose of my unannounced Annual Compliance Visit today was to monitor this program for compliance with applicable child care requirements. V. Burnham-Butts, Operator, assisted me with today’s visit. The program currently operates with a 4-Star license, issued 10/14/22 earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for serving no more than two children under one year of age. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 11/19/24. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website. The information was current. Contact your consultant anytime you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. Corporation Status: Per your statements and according to the NC Secretary of State's website, this facility is not currently owned or operated by a corporation. Please contact me prior to any changes regarding the ownership of this facility. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. Children were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. During circle time, the children counted, sang, and danced. They then transitioned to free play time. The provider interacted with the children with encouraging words and instructions. There continues to be a fenced playground space located next to the home. Lunch included spaghetti, green beans, peaches, wheat bread and milk. Rated License Discussion - You indicated you are leaning towards meeting requirements for a 5-Star Rated License participating in meeting requirements for Pathway 2- Classroom and Instructional Quality. I emailed the application to you and discussed all items must be met within the 5 Star Standard of the Pathway. You indicated you will review the documents and plan to submit the required information before December 2026. One violation was documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 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. The health assessment for a child enrolled on August 25, 2025 was completed on October 28, 2025. GS 110-91(1); 10A NCAC 09.1721(a)(1) * The compliance history for your facility prior to today’s visit was 91%. 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. The violation documented may impact the compliance history score and must be corrected immediately. On or before November 21, 2025, you must provide documentation of how and when each violation was corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Lakisha Skinner, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 431 Grimesland, NC 27837 Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Children’s Health Assessment - Each preschool age child must have a health assessment before being admitted or within 30 days following admission to a child care facility. One child, enrolled on 8.25.25, had an assessment that was completed on 10/28/25. You did not indicate why. Having potential families provide health assessments prior to the child’s start date will help you to maintain compliance with this requirement. Additional Information: Criminal Background Check - Your daughter will turn 16 in January 2026. Any individual over the age of 15 who resides in a child care facility on either a temporary or permanent basis must complete a criminal background check within 5 days after their 16th birthday. Annual Licensing Fees - The Division of Child Development and Early Education assesses an Annual License Fee to active child care providers in accordance with North Carolina General Statute § 110-90(1a). This fee applies to the current calendar year (January - December 2025). Payments must be submitted online only no later than December 23, 2025. The current Annual License Fee Invoice Amount for family child care homes is $52.00. NCID - Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you every 6 months to login and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. The Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on child care issues. Their phone number is (252) 333-1233 or check out their website at www. https://www.aacfnc.org/. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Lakisha Skinner, Child Care Consultant, 252-820-5976, Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@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

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: STEPPING STONES DAY CARE Facility ID: 70000153 Consultant: LAKISHA SKINNER Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 11/7/2025 Number Present: 3 Completed Date: 11/7/2025 Age: From 2 To 2 Total Minutes: 200 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced * The purpose of my unannounced Annual Compliance Visit today was to monitor this program for compliance with applicable child care requirements. V. Burnham-Butts, Operator, assisted me with today’s visit. The program currently operates with a 4-Star license, issued 10/14/22 earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for serving no more than two children under one year of age. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 11/19/24. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website. The information was current. Contact your consultant anytime you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. Corporation Status: Per your statements and according to the NC Secretary of State's website, this facility is not currently owned or operated by a corporation. Please contact me prior to any changes regarding the ownership of this facility. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. Children were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. During circle time, the children counted, sang, and danced. They then transitioned to free play time. The provider interacted with the children with encouraging words and instructions. There continues to be a fenced playground space located next to the home. Lunch included spaghetti, green beans, peaches, wheat bread and milk. Rated License Discussion - You indicated you are leaning towards meeting requirements for a 5-Star Rated License participating in meeting requirements for Pathway 2- Classroom and Instructional Quality. I emailed the application to you and discussed all items must be met within the 5 Star Standard of the Pathway. You indicated you will review the documents and plan to submit the required information before December 2026. One violation was documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 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. The health assessment for a child enrolled on August 25, 2025 was completed on October 28, 2025. GS 110-91(1); 10A NCAC 09.1721(a)(1) * The compliance history for your facility prior to today’s visit was 91%. 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. The violation documented may impact the compliance history score and must be corrected immediately. On or before November 21, 2025, you must provide documentation of how and when each violation was corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Lakisha Skinner, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 431 Grimesland, NC 27837 Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Children’s Health Assessment - Each preschool age child must have a health assessment before being admitted or within 30 days following admission to a child care facility. One child, enrolled on 8.25.25, had an assessment that was completed on 10/28/25. You did not indicate why. Having potential families provide health assessments prior to the child’s start date will help you to maintain compliance with this requirement. Additional Information: Criminal Background Check - Your daughter will turn 16 in January 2026. Any individual over the age of 15 who resides in a child care facility on either a temporary or permanent basis must complete a criminal background check within 5 days after their 16th birthday. Annual Licensing Fees - The Division of Child Development and Early Education assesses an Annual License Fee to active child care providers in accordance with North Carolina General Statute § 110-90(1a). This fee applies to the current calendar year (January - December 2025). Payments must be submitted online only no later than December 23, 2025. The current Annual License Fee Invoice Amount for family child care homes is $52.00. NCID - Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you every 6 months to login and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. The Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on child care issues. Their phone number is (252) 333-1233 or check out their website at www. https://www.aacfnc.org/. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Lakisha Skinner, Child Care Consultant, 252-820-5976, Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@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: STEPPING STONES DAY CARE Facility ID: 70000153 Consultant: LAKISHA SKINNER Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 11/7/2025 Number Present: 3 Completed Date: 11/7/2025 Age: From 2 To 2 Total Minutes: 200 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced * The purpose of my unannounced Annual Compliance Visit today was to monitor this program for compliance with applicable child care requirements. V. Burnham-Butts, Operator, assisted me with today’s visit. The program currently operates with a 4-Star license, issued 10/14/22 earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for serving no more than two children under one year of age. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 11/19/24. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website. The information was current. Contact your consultant anytime you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. Corporation Status: Per your statements and according to the NC Secretary of State's website, this facility is not currently owned or operated by a corporation. Please contact me prior to any changes regarding the ownership of this facility. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. Children were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. During circle time, the children counted, sang, and danced. They then transitioned to free play time. The provider interacted with the children with encouraging words and instructions. There continues to be a fenced playground space located next to the home. Lunch included spaghetti, green beans, peaches, wheat bread and milk. Rated License Discussion - You indicated you are leaning towards meeting requirements for a 5-Star Rated License participating in meeting requirements for Pathway 2- Classroom and Instructional Quality. I emailed the application to you and discussed all items must be met within the 5 Star Standard of the Pathway. You indicated you will review the documents and plan to submit the required information before December 2026. One violation was documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 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. The health assessment for a child enrolled on August 25, 2025 was completed on October 28, 2025. GS 110-91(1); 10A NCAC 09.1721(a)(1) * The compliance history for your facility prior to today’s visit was 91%. 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. The violation documented may impact the compliance history score and must be corrected immediately. On or before November 21, 2025, you must provide documentation of how and when each violation was corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Lakisha Skinner, Child Care Consultant PO BOX 431 Grimesland, NC 27837 Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Children’s Health Assessment - Each preschool age child must have a health assessment before being admitted or within 30 days following admission to a child care facility. One child, enrolled on 8.25.25, had an assessment that was completed on 10/28/25. You did not indicate why. Having potential families provide health assessments prior to the child’s start date will help you to maintain compliance with this requirement. Additional Information: Criminal Background Check - Your daughter will turn 16 in January 2026. Any individual over the age of 15 who resides in a child care facility on either a temporary or permanent basis must complete a criminal background check within 5 days after their 16th birthday. Annual Licensing Fees - The Division of Child Development and Early Education assesses an Annual License Fee to active child care providers in accordance with North Carolina General Statute § 110-90(1a). This fee applies to the current calendar year (January - December 2025). Payments must be submitted online only no later than December 23, 2025. The current Annual License Fee Invoice Amount for family child care homes is $52.00. NCID - Did you know that if you do not login on any DCDEE platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) for a period of 12 months, your account will be archived? An archived account cannot be reinstated. You will need to create a new one and then email all platforms (e.g., Moodle, WORKS, CBC) to merge accounts. Pro Tip: Set your calendar to remind you every 6 months to login and out at https://myncid.nc.gov to keep your account activated and it will NOT be archived. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. The Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on child care issues. Their phone number is (252) 333-1233 or check out their website at www. https://www.aacfnc.org/. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Lakisha Skinner, Child Care Consultant, 252-820-5976, Lakisha.Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@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

10A NCAC 09. 1702 · Violation

Name of Operation: STEPPING STONES DAY CARE Facility ID: 70000153 Consultant: ANNE BUCK Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 4/25/2025 Number Present: 5 Completed Date: 4/25/2025 Age: From 2 To 6 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. The owner/operator assisted me with today’s visit. Her husband was present and assisted with the care of the children. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 10/14/22 earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for: Infant capacity restricted to no more than two children under one year of age. Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS is implemented (SB 425). This means that you do not need to schedule a rated license assessment unless you voluntarily request one. The new QRIS has been approved by the Child Care Commission. The Division is working on implementation and trainings for the new system. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project - NCRLAP’s mission is to promote the quality of child care by consistently and reliably assessing environments for the North Carolina Star Rated License. They collaborate with professionals in the early childhood education field to foster the development and learning of young children. Their website, ncrlap.org, offers resources, trainings, videos, worksheets, and help to get ready for the new ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and FCCRS-3 assessment tools that will be used in the new QRIS system. The facilities’ compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 94% as of 4/22/25. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. The home was prepared for the completion of mitigation for lead based paint in the main child care space. The children were being cared for in the original approved hallway space until the final inspection is completed. The children spent most of the day outside on the fenced playground. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. The Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families / Child Care Resource & Referral is able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on child care issues and the Environment Rating Scales. Their phone number is (252) 333-1233 or check out their website at www.albemarleafc.org. The following violation(s) were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 930 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years from the date of issuance). A. Butts qualifying letter expired on 2/11/25 and a current qualifying letter was not on file and available for review. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(n) & (o) 1104 Operator or other transportation provider did not comply with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations concerning vehicles and the transportation of passengers. The provider stated that, at least two (2) times during the mitigation process, the children were transported in their personal vehicle to another location for nap time. The facility is not approved for transportation. G.S.110-91 & .1723(2) 1604 The children were in care at a location address that was not listed on the license. Per the provider's statements, the children were transported to a another facility for nap time while the mitigation process was being completed in the home. The change of location was not preapproved by a representative of the Division. 10A NCAC 09. 1702(f) 1831 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available for review at the facility. A. Butts qualifying letter expired on 2/11/25 and a current qualifying letter was not on file and available for review. G.S. 110-90.2 (b) & (d) & .2703(e) .1702(b)(1) Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, the Items Number Listing (can be used as a detailed checklist of required items) and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Check the designated facility email at least weekly to stay current with communication and email blasts from DCDEE. If your email is not the facility email, sign up for email blasts on the What’s New page for general information and communication from DCDEE. 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 5/9/25, 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: Anne Buck, Child Care Consultant PO Box 2363 Elizabeth City, NC 27906 Anne.Buck@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Criminal Records Check- Ensuring caregivers complete the required criminal record check process every five years helps to protect the children in care. Albert Butts’ qualifying letter expired on 2/11/25 and a current qualifying letter was not on file and available for review. Qualification letters expire five years from the date on the letter. Providers can apply up to six months in advance of the expiration date to obtain a new letter. A tracking system must be put into place to help you remember to submit paperwork before a qualification letter expires. Use your “Provider Verification Form”, that is updated at each visit, to help you track when renewals are necessary. Setting an alarm notice on your phone or calendar can also help ensure the process is completed on time. You stated that you thought you had completed the background check at the same time and that you will probably renew yours at the same time to put both of you on the same schedule. This violation must be corrected within two (2) weeks and a copy of the qualifying letter submitted with your compliance letter. Transportation and Approved Space – Keeping children safe is the first priority of every provider. Per your statements, two (2) times during the mitigation process, the children were transported in your personal vehicle to another facility for nap time. Your facility is not currently approved for transportation. The vehicle used to transport children to another location had not been inspected by a representative of the Division to verify that it met all safety requirements. Children cannot be cared for in any space that has not been preapproved for your license by a representative of the Division. If there is a need for an emergency relocation, you must first notify your consultant to assist you with the process of approving the new location. You stated that you were not sure what to do and did not understand that this would not be allowed. You stated that you will not do it again and will call your consultant when you are unsure what your next steps will be. Additional Information: NCID Password Change – In the Raise NC email blast sent out on 2/21/25, announced changes to the password rules. As part of ongoing efforts to protect state systems and data, the N.C. Department of Information Technology will be changing the minimum length of NCID passwords from 8 to 14 characters. The change will apply to all providers. NCID passwords must be updated on a regular basis to keep them active. The next time you update your current password; you will be required to create a new one that must: • Be a minimum of 14 characters. • Consist of at least one numeric character, at least one uppercase letter, at least one lowercase letter, and at least one special character such as #, &, * etc. • Passwords shall not contain number or character substitutes to create dictionary words (e.g., d33psl33p for deepsleep). Strong, unique passwords, along with practicing mindful cybersecurity practices, are key components to the Division protecting your devices and personal information Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - New child care rules require child care facilities to test for lead in drinking water, lead paint, and asbestos. Testing is required by 1/1/2025. Check out the FAQ in the updated Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids. Currently there is funding to pay for the testing and to mitigate lead paint or asbestos hazards. Depending on the age of your home or building and the information you provide in the enrollment process, testing for lead paint and asbestos may not be required. Water testing will be required every three years. For more information go to https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ or contact your Environmental Health Specialist. Based on the information in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids: Water: Completed Lead Based Paint: Mitigation in process Asbestos: Completed At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If I may be of further assistance, please contact me by phone at 252-333-2084 or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, may also be contacted at (252) 373-4199. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: STEPPING STONES DAY CARE Facility ID: 70000153 Consultant: ANNE BUCK Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 4/25/2025 Number Present: 5 Completed Date: 4/25/2025 Age: From 2 To 6 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. The owner/operator assisted me with today’s visit. Her husband was present and assisted with the care of the children. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 10/14/22 earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for: Infant capacity restricted to no more than two children under one year of age. Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS is implemented (SB 425). This means that you do not need to schedule a rated license assessment unless you voluntarily request one. The new QRIS has been approved by the Child Care Commission. The Division is working on implementation and trainings for the new system. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project - NCRLAP’s mission is to promote the quality of child care by consistently and reliably assessing environments for the North Carolina Star Rated License. They collaborate with professionals in the early childhood education field to foster the development and learning of young children. Their website, ncrlap.org, offers resources, trainings, videos, worksheets, and help to get ready for the new ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and FCCRS-3 assessment tools that will be used in the new QRIS system. The facilities’ compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 94% as of 4/22/25. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. The home was prepared for the completion of mitigation for lead based paint in the main child care space. The children were being cared for in the original approved hallway space until the final inspection is completed. The children spent most of the day outside on the fenced playground. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. The Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families / Child Care Resource & Referral is able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on child care issues and the Environment Rating Scales. Their phone number is (252) 333-1233 or check out their website at www.albemarleafc.org. The following violation(s) were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 930 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years from the date of issuance). A. Butts qualifying letter expired on 2/11/25 and a current qualifying letter was not on file and available for review. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(n) & (o) 1104 Operator or other transportation provider did not comply with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations concerning vehicles and the transportation of passengers. The provider stated that, at least two (2) times during the mitigation process, the children were transported in their personal vehicle to another location for nap time. The facility is not approved for transportation. G.S.110-91 & .1723(2) 1604 The children were in care at a location address that was not listed on the license. Per the provider's statements, the children were transported to a another facility for nap time while the mitigation process was being completed in the home. The change of location was not preapproved by a representative of the Division. 10A NCAC 09. 1702(f) 1831 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available for review at the facility. A. Butts qualifying letter expired on 2/11/25 and a current qualifying letter was not on file and available for review. G.S. 110-90.2 (b) & (d) & .2703(e) .1702(b)(1) Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, the Items Number Listing (can be used as a detailed checklist of required items) and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Check the designated facility email at least weekly to stay current with communication and email blasts from DCDEE. If your email is not the facility email, sign up for email blasts on the What’s New page for general information and communication from DCDEE. 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 5/9/25, 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: Anne Buck, Child Care Consultant PO Box 2363 Elizabeth City, NC 27906 Anne.Buck@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Criminal Records Check- Ensuring caregivers complete the required criminal record check process every five years helps to protect the children in care. Albert Butts’ qualifying letter expired on 2/11/25 and a current qualifying letter was not on file and available for review. Qualification letters expire five years from the date on the letter. Providers can apply up to six months in advance of the expiration date to obtain a new letter. A tracking system must be put into place to help you remember to submit paperwork before a qualification letter expires. Use your “Provider Verification Form”, that is updated at each visit, to help you track when renewals are necessary. Setting an alarm notice on your phone or calendar can also help ensure the process is completed on time. You stated that you thought you had completed the background check at the same time and that you will probably renew yours at the same time to put both of you on the same schedule. This violation must be corrected within two (2) weeks and a copy of the qualifying letter submitted with your compliance letter. Transportation and Approved Space – Keeping children safe is the first priority of every provider. Per your statements, two (2) times during the mitigation process, the children were transported in your personal vehicle to another facility for nap time. Your facility is not currently approved for transportation. The vehicle used to transport children to another location had not been inspected by a representative of the Division to verify that it met all safety requirements. Children cannot be cared for in any space that has not been preapproved for your license by a representative of the Division. If there is a need for an emergency relocation, you must first notify your consultant to assist you with the process of approving the new location. You stated that you were not sure what to do and did not understand that this would not be allowed. You stated that you will not do it again and will call your consultant when you are unsure what your next steps will be. Additional Information: NCID Password Change – In the Raise NC email blast sent out on 2/21/25, announced changes to the password rules. As part of ongoing efforts to protect state systems and data, the N.C. Department of Information Technology will be changing the minimum length of NCID passwords from 8 to 14 characters. The change will apply to all providers. NCID passwords must be updated on a regular basis to keep them active. The next time you update your current password; you will be required to create a new one that must: • Be a minimum of 14 characters. • Consist of at least one numeric character, at least one uppercase letter, at least one lowercase letter, and at least one special character such as #, &, * etc. • Passwords shall not contain number or character substitutes to create dictionary words (e.g., d33psl33p for deepsleep). Strong, unique passwords, along with practicing mindful cybersecurity practices, are key components to the Division protecting your devices and personal information Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - New child care rules require child care facilities to test for lead in drinking water, lead paint, and asbestos. Testing is required by 1/1/2025. Check out the FAQ in the updated Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids. Currently there is funding to pay for the testing and to mitigate lead paint or asbestos hazards. Depending on the age of your home or building and the information you provide in the enrollment process, testing for lead paint and asbestos may not be required. Water testing will be required every three years. For more information go to https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ or contact your Environmental Health Specialist. Based on the information in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids: Water: Completed Lead Based Paint: Mitigation in process Asbestos: Completed At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If I may be of further assistance, please contact me by phone at 252-333-2084 or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, may also be contacted at (252) 373-4199. 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: STEPPING STONES DAY CARE Facility ID: 70000153 Consultant: ANNE BUCK Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 4/25/2025 Number Present: 5 Completed Date: 4/25/2025 Age: From 2 To 6 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. The owner/operator assisted me with today’s visit. Her husband was present and assisted with the care of the children. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 10/14/22 earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for: Infant capacity restricted to no more than two children under one year of age. Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS is implemented (SB 425). This means that you do not need to schedule a rated license assessment unless you voluntarily request one. The new QRIS has been approved by the Child Care Commission. The Division is working on implementation and trainings for the new system. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project - NCRLAP’s mission is to promote the quality of child care by consistently and reliably assessing environments for the North Carolina Star Rated License. They collaborate with professionals in the early childhood education field to foster the development and learning of young children. Their website, ncrlap.org, offers resources, trainings, videos, worksheets, and help to get ready for the new ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and FCCRS-3 assessment tools that will be used in the new QRIS system. The facilities’ compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 94% as of 4/22/25. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. The home was prepared for the completion of mitigation for lead based paint in the main child care space. The children were being cared for in the original approved hallway space until the final inspection is completed. The children spent most of the day outside on the fenced playground. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. The Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families / Child Care Resource & Referral is able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on child care issues and the Environment Rating Scales. Their phone number is (252) 333-1233 or check out their website at www.albemarleafc.org. The following violation(s) were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 930 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years from the date of issuance). A. Butts qualifying letter expired on 2/11/25 and a current qualifying letter was not on file and available for review. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(n) & (o) 1104 Operator or other transportation provider did not comply with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations concerning vehicles and the transportation of passengers. The provider stated that, at least two (2) times during the mitigation process, the children were transported in their personal vehicle to another location for nap time. The facility is not approved for transportation. G.S.110-91 & .1723(2) 1604 The children were in care at a location address that was not listed on the license. Per the provider's statements, the children were transported to a another facility for nap time while the mitigation process was being completed in the home. The change of location was not preapproved by a representative of the Division. 10A NCAC 09. 1702(f) 1831 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available for review at the facility. A. Butts qualifying letter expired on 2/11/25 and a current qualifying letter was not on file and available for review. G.S. 110-90.2 (b) & (d) & .2703(e) .1702(b)(1) Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, the Items Number Listing (can be used as a detailed checklist of required items) and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Check the designated facility email at least weekly to stay current with communication and email blasts from DCDEE. If your email is not the facility email, sign up for email blasts on the What’s New page for general information and communication from DCDEE. 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 5/9/25, 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: Anne Buck, Child Care Consultant PO Box 2363 Elizabeth City, NC 27906 Anne.Buck@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Criminal Records Check- Ensuring caregivers complete the required criminal record check process every five years helps to protect the children in care. Albert Butts’ qualifying letter expired on 2/11/25 and a current qualifying letter was not on file and available for review. Qualification letters expire five years from the date on the letter. Providers can apply up to six months in advance of the expiration date to obtain a new letter. A tracking system must be put into place to help you remember to submit paperwork before a qualification letter expires. Use your “Provider Verification Form”, that is updated at each visit, to help you track when renewals are necessary. Setting an alarm notice on your phone or calendar can also help ensure the process is completed on time. You stated that you thought you had completed the background check at the same time and that you will probably renew yours at the same time to put both of you on the same schedule. This violation must be corrected within two (2) weeks and a copy of the qualifying letter submitted with your compliance letter. Transportation and Approved Space – Keeping children safe is the first priority of every provider. Per your statements, two (2) times during the mitigation process, the children were transported in your personal vehicle to another facility for nap time. Your facility is not currently approved for transportation. The vehicle used to transport children to another location had not been inspected by a representative of the Division to verify that it met all safety requirements. Children cannot be cared for in any space that has not been preapproved for your license by a representative of the Division. If there is a need for an emergency relocation, you must first notify your consultant to assist you with the process of approving the new location. You stated that you were not sure what to do and did not understand that this would not be allowed. You stated that you will not do it again and will call your consultant when you are unsure what your next steps will be. Additional Information: NCID Password Change – In the Raise NC email blast sent out on 2/21/25, announced changes to the password rules. As part of ongoing efforts to protect state systems and data, the N.C. Department of Information Technology will be changing the minimum length of NCID passwords from 8 to 14 characters. The change will apply to all providers. NCID passwords must be updated on a regular basis to keep them active. The next time you update your current password; you will be required to create a new one that must: • Be a minimum of 14 characters. • Consist of at least one numeric character, at least one uppercase letter, at least one lowercase letter, and at least one special character such as #, &, * etc. • Passwords shall not contain number or character substitutes to create dictionary words (e.g., d33psl33p for deepsleep). Strong, unique passwords, along with practicing mindful cybersecurity practices, are key components to the Division protecting your devices and personal information Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - New child care rules require child care facilities to test for lead in drinking water, lead paint, and asbestos. Testing is required by 1/1/2025. Check out the FAQ in the updated Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids. Currently there is funding to pay for the testing and to mitigate lead paint or asbestos hazards. Depending on the age of your home or building and the information you provide in the enrollment process, testing for lead paint and asbestos may not be required. Water testing will be required every three years. For more information go to https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ or contact your Environmental Health Specialist. Based on the information in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids: Water: Completed Lead Based Paint: Mitigation in process Asbestos: Completed At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If I may be of further assistance, please contact me by phone at 252-333-2084 or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, may also be contacted at (252) 373-4199. 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: STEPPING STONES DAY CARE Facility ID: 70000153 Consultant: ANNE BUCK Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 4/25/2025 Number Present: 5 Completed Date: 4/25/2025 Age: From 2 To 6 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. The owner/operator assisted me with today’s visit. Her husband was present and assisted with the care of the children. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 10/14/22 earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for: Infant capacity restricted to no more than two children under one year of age. Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS is implemented (SB 425). This means that you do not need to schedule a rated license assessment unless you voluntarily request one. The new QRIS has been approved by the Child Care Commission. The Division is working on implementation and trainings for the new system. North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project - NCRLAP’s mission is to promote the quality of child care by consistently and reliably assessing environments for the North Carolina Star Rated License. They collaborate with professionals in the early childhood education field to foster the development and learning of young children. Their website, ncrlap.org, offers resources, trainings, videos, worksheets, and help to get ready for the new ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and FCCRS-3 assessment tools that will be used in the new QRIS system. The facilities’ compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 94% as of 4/22/25. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. The home was prepared for the completion of mitigation for lead based paint in the main child care space. The children were being cared for in the original approved hallway space until the final inspection is completed. The children spent most of the day outside on the fenced playground. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. The Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families / Child Care Resource & Referral is able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on child care issues and the Environment Rating Scales. Their phone number is (252) 333-1233 or check out their website at www.albemarleafc.org. The following violation(s) were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 930 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years from the date of issuance). A. Butts qualifying letter expired on 2/11/25 and a current qualifying letter was not on file and available for review. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(n) & (o) 1104 Operator or other transportation provider did not comply with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations concerning vehicles and the transportation of passengers. The provider stated that, at least two (2) times during the mitigation process, the children were transported in their personal vehicle to another location for nap time. The facility is not approved for transportation. G.S.110-91 & .1723(2) 1604 The children were in care at a location address that was not listed on the license. Per the provider's statements, the children were transported to a another facility for nap time while the mitigation process was being completed in the home. The change of location was not preapproved by a representative of the Division. 10A NCAC 09. 1702(f) 1831 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available for review at the facility. A. Butts qualifying letter expired on 2/11/25 and a current qualifying letter was not on file and available for review. G.S. 110-90.2 (b) & (d) & .2703(e) .1702(b)(1) Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, the Items Number Listing (can be used as a detailed checklist of required items) and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Check the designated facility email at least weekly to stay current with communication and email blasts from DCDEE. If your email is not the facility email, sign up for email blasts on the What’s New page for general information and communication from DCDEE. 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 5/9/25, 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: Anne Buck, Child Care Consultant PO Box 2363 Elizabeth City, NC 27906 Anne.Buck@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Criminal Records Check- Ensuring caregivers complete the required criminal record check process every five years helps to protect the children in care. Albert Butts’ qualifying letter expired on 2/11/25 and a current qualifying letter was not on file and available for review. Qualification letters expire five years from the date on the letter. Providers can apply up to six months in advance of the expiration date to obtain a new letter. A tracking system must be put into place to help you remember to submit paperwork before a qualification letter expires. Use your “Provider Verification Form”, that is updated at each visit, to help you track when renewals are necessary. Setting an alarm notice on your phone or calendar can also help ensure the process is completed on time. You stated that you thought you had completed the background check at the same time and that you will probably renew yours at the same time to put both of you on the same schedule. This violation must be corrected within two (2) weeks and a copy of the qualifying letter submitted with your compliance letter. Transportation and Approved Space – Keeping children safe is the first priority of every provider. Per your statements, two (2) times during the mitigation process, the children were transported in your personal vehicle to another facility for nap time. Your facility is not currently approved for transportation. The vehicle used to transport children to another location had not been inspected by a representative of the Division to verify that it met all safety requirements. Children cannot be cared for in any space that has not been preapproved for your license by a representative of the Division. If there is a need for an emergency relocation, you must first notify your consultant to assist you with the process of approving the new location. You stated that you were not sure what to do and did not understand that this would not be allowed. You stated that you will not do it again and will call your consultant when you are unsure what your next steps will be. Additional Information: NCID Password Change – In the Raise NC email blast sent out on 2/21/25, announced changes to the password rules. As part of ongoing efforts to protect state systems and data, the N.C. Department of Information Technology will be changing the minimum length of NCID passwords from 8 to 14 characters. The change will apply to all providers. NCID passwords must be updated on a regular basis to keep them active. The next time you update your current password; you will be required to create a new one that must: • Be a minimum of 14 characters. • Consist of at least one numeric character, at least one uppercase letter, at least one lowercase letter, and at least one special character such as #, &, * etc. • Passwords shall not contain number or character substitutes to create dictionary words (e.g., d33psl33p for deepsleep). Strong, unique passwords, along with practicing mindful cybersecurity practices, are key components to the Division protecting your devices and personal information Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - New child care rules require child care facilities to test for lead in drinking water, lead paint, and asbestos. Testing is required by 1/1/2025. Check out the FAQ in the updated Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids. Currently there is funding to pay for the testing and to mitigate lead paint or asbestos hazards. Depending on the age of your home or building and the information you provide in the enrollment process, testing for lead paint and asbestos may not be required. Water testing will be required every three years. For more information go to https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ or contact your Environmental Health Specialist. Based on the information in the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids: Water: Completed Lead Based Paint: Mitigation in process Asbestos: Completed At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If I may be of further assistance, please contact me by phone at 252-333-2084 or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, may also be contacted at (252) 373-4199. 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 .1720 · Violation

Name of Operation: STEPPING STONES DAY CARE Facility ID: 70000153 Consultant: ANNE BUCK Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 11/19/2024 Number Present: 4 Completed Date: 11/19/2024 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 12:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced Annual Compliance Visit today was to monitor this program for compliance with applicable child care requirements. The Owner/operator assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 10/14/22 earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for serving no more than two children under one year of age. Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS is implemented (SB 425). This means that you do not need to schedule a rated license assessment unless you voluntarily request one. The new QRIS has been approved by the Child Care Commission. The Division is working on implementation and trainings for the new system. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 12/12/23. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 96% as of 11/18/24. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. Hands were washed as required. Breakfast was observed and consisted of scrambled eggs, whole wheat toast, apple slices, and milk. The children then toileted, washed hands and prepared to go outside. A fenced back yard continues to be used for gross motor play. The children had access to swings, playhouses, and push cars. Corporation Status: Per your statements and according to the NC Secretary of State's website, this facility is not currently owned or operated by a corporation. Please contact me prior to any changes regarding the ownership of this facility. The Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families / Child Care Resource & Referral is able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on child care issues and the Environment Rating Scales. Their phone number is (252) 333-1233 or check out their website at www.albemarleafc.org. The following violation(s) were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 906 Authorization to seek medical care in the parent's absence was not available. Three, out of 10 children’s files reviewed, did not have a signature for permission. .1721(a)(3)(I) 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. One child, enrolled on 9/23/24, did not have a medical exam on file for review today. GS 110-91(1); 10A NCAC 09.1721(a)(1) 1406 Authorization for up to 6 months to administer prescription or over-the-counter medication, when needed, for chronic medical conditions and for allergic reactions was not in writing and did not contain information required by rule 10 NCAC 09 .1720(c)(6)(A-I). One child, FH, had a medical permission form on file for Ventolin HFA that expired on 1/19/23. 10A NCAC 09 .1720(b)(4) 1920 Indoor and outdoor area was not checked daily for debris, vandalism, broken equipment, and animal waste. There was duct tape covering the chains supporting the swings. The tape was old and shredding. .1719(a)(17) 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 accessible to children under 2 years of age in the shower of the bathroom the children use. There was also a plastic bag on top of the washing machine the children walk past to use the bathroom. .1719(a)(18) Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, the Items Number Listing (can be used as a detailed checklist of required items) and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Check the designated facility email at least weekly to stay current with communication and email blasts from DCDEE. If your email is not the facility email, sign up for email blasts on the What’s New page for general information and communication from DCDEE. 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 12/3/24, 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: Anne Buck, Child Care Consultant PO Box 2363 Elizabeth City, NC 27906 Anne.Buck@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Parental Permission to Administer Medication - Parents must give a provider written authorization to administer any medication. These forms must be kept current even if the child has not used the medication or a long period. One child, FH, had a medical permission form on file for Ventolin HFA that expired on 1/19/23. Per our discussion, consider having parents sign new permission forms when they review their application yearly. Some forms may need to be renewed every 6 months. This helps with tracking when each form expires. Checking all medication permission forms at least monthly will also help to ensure that the information is current and accurate. You must be diligent in your adherence to the medication administration policy and procedures to prevent any inadvertent medication errors, which may be harmful to the child. Authorization for Emergency Medical Care - Emergency situations can occur quickly and without warning. Having a plan in place and knowing what to do is your best protection. A parent/guardian’s signature giving permission to administer emergency care is a required part of the child’s application. This ensures that you have the authority to get the medical care a child needs in an emergency situation. Three, out of 10 children’s files reviewed, did not have a signature for permission. Per our discussion, whoever has legal custody of the child can sign giving permission for the emergency care. Children’s Health Assessment - Each child shall have a health assessment before being admitted or within 30 days following admission to a child care facility. One child, enrolled on 9/23/24, did not have a medical exam on file for review today. You stated that the guardian brought the sealed report but when it was opened, the health care provider had not completed their part of the form. You have sent it back and asked the guardian to obtain the full report. Per our discussion, consider requiring parents and guardians to supply all required information prior to being enrolled. This helps prevent having to go back and try to get them to complete the requirements before the child care rule deadlines. If you incorporate this, you must update your policies and procedures and share the update with all parents within 14 days of making the change. Plastic Bags - Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. In child care facilities, plastic bags must be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. Plastic bags were accessible to children under 2 years of age in the shower of the bathroom the children use. There was also a plastic bag on top of the washing machine the children walk past to use the bathroom. To make plastic bags inaccessible to children less than three years old, store them above five feet from the finished floor. You must go through your facility and ensure all plastic bags are stored 5 feet above the floor or in locked storage. Playground Safety - Regular outdoor inspections are critical to prevent deterioration of equipment and accumulation of hazardous materials in the play. It also ensures that appropriate repairs are made as soon as possible. The outdoor play area should be inspected daily to ensure the materials are in good repair and ready for use by the children. There was duct tape on the chains supporting the swings. The tape was old and shredding. This must be removed. If the chains are in poor repair, they must also be removed. You have 4 swings in good condition so children would still have access to these if the other swings were removed. Additional Information: Caring for Children with Custody Orders - In situations where a child has a custody order with the court, you must request a copy of the order to ensure you have accurate information as to who can make decisions for the child’s wellbeing. It also clearly identifies who can pick up the child or have access to the child’s records. Parents have the right to access their child unless a court order states that they do not have legal custody rights. You must have access to this information to be able to make informed decisions concerning the child. Whenever you see an application that does not list both parents or lists a guardian, you should inquire about a court order and require a copy before starting care. ABCMS Requirements - 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. Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - New child care rules require child care facilities to test for lead in drinking water, lead paint, and asbestos. Testing is required by 1/1/2025. Check out the FAQ in the updated Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids. Currently there is funding to pay for the testing and to mitigate lead paint or asbestos hazards. Depending on the age of your home and the information you provide in the enrollment process, testing for lead paint and asbestos may not be required. For more information go to https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ or contact your Environmental Health Specialist. Status: Water – Completed 6/18/24 – Mitigation Needed Lead Paint – Waiting for on-site results Asbestos – Waiting for on-site results North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project - NCRLAP’s mission is to promote the quality of child care by consistently and reliably assessing environments for the North Carolina Star Rated License. They collaborate with professionals in the early childhood education field to foster the development and learning of young children. Their website, ncrlap.org, offers resources, trainings, videos, worksheets, and help to get ready for the new ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and FCCRS-3 assessment tools that will be used in the new QRIS system. Natural Learning Initiative has created resources, often in collaboration with the Natural Learning Initiative’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience and growth of all children. You can explore and use these resources on their website https://naturalearning.org/resources/. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If I may be of further assistance, please contact me by phone at 252-333-2084 or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, may also be contacted at (252) 373-4199. 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: STEPPING STONES DAY CARE Facility ID: 70000153 Consultant: ANNE BUCK Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 11/19/2024 Number Present: 4 Completed Date: 11/19/2024 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 12:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced Annual Compliance Visit today was to monitor this program for compliance with applicable child care requirements. The Owner/operator assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 10/14/22 earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for serving no more than two children under one year of age. Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS is implemented (SB 425). This means that you do not need to schedule a rated license assessment unless you voluntarily request one. The new QRIS has been approved by the Child Care Commission. The Division is working on implementation and trainings for the new system. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 12/12/23. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 96% as of 11/18/24. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. Hands were washed as required. Breakfast was observed and consisted of scrambled eggs, whole wheat toast, apple slices, and milk. The children then toileted, washed hands and prepared to go outside. A fenced back yard continues to be used for gross motor play. The children had access to swings, playhouses, and push cars. Corporation Status: Per your statements and according to the NC Secretary of State's website, this facility is not currently owned or operated by a corporation. Please contact me prior to any changes regarding the ownership of this facility. The Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families / Child Care Resource & Referral is able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on child care issues and the Environment Rating Scales. Their phone number is (252) 333-1233 or check out their website at www.albemarleafc.org. The following violation(s) were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 906 Authorization to seek medical care in the parent's absence was not available. Three, out of 10 children’s files reviewed, did not have a signature for permission. .1721(a)(3)(I) 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. One child, enrolled on 9/23/24, did not have a medical exam on file for review today. GS 110-91(1); 10A NCAC 09.1721(a)(1) 1406 Authorization for up to 6 months to administer prescription or over-the-counter medication, when needed, for chronic medical conditions and for allergic reactions was not in writing and did not contain information required by rule 10 NCAC 09 .1720(c)(6)(A-I). One child, FH, had a medical permission form on file for Ventolin HFA that expired on 1/19/23. 10A NCAC 09 .1720(b)(4) 1920 Indoor and outdoor area was not checked daily for debris, vandalism, broken equipment, and animal waste. There was duct tape covering the chains supporting the swings. The tape was old and shredding. .1719(a)(17) 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 accessible to children under 2 years of age in the shower of the bathroom the children use. There was also a plastic bag on top of the washing machine the children walk past to use the bathroom. .1719(a)(18) Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, the Items Number Listing (can be used as a detailed checklist of required items) and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Check the designated facility email at least weekly to stay current with communication and email blasts from DCDEE. If your email is not the facility email, sign up for email blasts on the What’s New page for general information and communication from DCDEE. 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 12/3/24, 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: Anne Buck, Child Care Consultant PO Box 2363 Elizabeth City, NC 27906 Anne.Buck@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Parental Permission to Administer Medication - Parents must give a provider written authorization to administer any medication. These forms must be kept current even if the child has not used the medication or a long period. One child, FH, had a medical permission form on file for Ventolin HFA that expired on 1/19/23. Per our discussion, consider having parents sign new permission forms when they review their application yearly. Some forms may need to be renewed every 6 months. This helps with tracking when each form expires. Checking all medication permission forms at least monthly will also help to ensure that the information is current and accurate. You must be diligent in your adherence to the medication administration policy and procedures to prevent any inadvertent medication errors, which may be harmful to the child. Authorization for Emergency Medical Care - Emergency situations can occur quickly and without warning. Having a plan in place and knowing what to do is your best protection. A parent/guardian’s signature giving permission to administer emergency care is a required part of the child’s application. This ensures that you have the authority to get the medical care a child needs in an emergency situation. Three, out of 10 children’s files reviewed, did not have a signature for permission. Per our discussion, whoever has legal custody of the child can sign giving permission for the emergency care. Children’s Health Assessment - Each child shall have a health assessment before being admitted or within 30 days following admission to a child care facility. One child, enrolled on 9/23/24, did not have a medical exam on file for review today. You stated that the guardian brought the sealed report but when it was opened, the health care provider had not completed their part of the form. You have sent it back and asked the guardian to obtain the full report. Per our discussion, consider requiring parents and guardians to supply all required information prior to being enrolled. This helps prevent having to go back and try to get them to complete the requirements before the child care rule deadlines. If you incorporate this, you must update your policies and procedures and share the update with all parents within 14 days of making the change. Plastic Bags - Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. In child care facilities, plastic bags must be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. Plastic bags were accessible to children under 2 years of age in the shower of the bathroom the children use. There was also a plastic bag on top of the washing machine the children walk past to use the bathroom. To make plastic bags inaccessible to children less than three years old, store them above five feet from the finished floor. You must go through your facility and ensure all plastic bags are stored 5 feet above the floor or in locked storage. Playground Safety - Regular outdoor inspections are critical to prevent deterioration of equipment and accumulation of hazardous materials in the play. It also ensures that appropriate repairs are made as soon as possible. The outdoor play area should be inspected daily to ensure the materials are in good repair and ready for use by the children. There was duct tape on the chains supporting the swings. The tape was old and shredding. This must be removed. If the chains are in poor repair, they must also be removed. You have 4 swings in good condition so children would still have access to these if the other swings were removed. Additional Information: Caring for Children with Custody Orders - In situations where a child has a custody order with the court, you must request a copy of the order to ensure you have accurate information as to who can make decisions for the child’s wellbeing. It also clearly identifies who can pick up the child or have access to the child’s records. Parents have the right to access their child unless a court order states that they do not have legal custody rights. You must have access to this information to be able to make informed decisions concerning the child. Whenever you see an application that does not list both parents or lists a guardian, you should inquire about a court order and require a copy before starting care. ABCMS Requirements - 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. Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - New child care rules require child care facilities to test for lead in drinking water, lead paint, and asbestos. Testing is required by 1/1/2025. Check out the FAQ in the updated Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids. Currently there is funding to pay for the testing and to mitigate lead paint or asbestos hazards. Depending on the age of your home and the information you provide in the enrollment process, testing for lead paint and asbestos may not be required. For more information go to https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ or contact your Environmental Health Specialist. Status: Water – Completed 6/18/24 – Mitigation Needed Lead Paint – Waiting for on-site results Asbestos – Waiting for on-site results North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project - NCRLAP’s mission is to promote the quality of child care by consistently and reliably assessing environments for the North Carolina Star Rated License. They collaborate with professionals in the early childhood education field to foster the development and learning of young children. Their website, ncrlap.org, offers resources, trainings, videos, worksheets, and help to get ready for the new ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and FCCRS-3 assessment tools that will be used in the new QRIS system. Natural Learning Initiative has created resources, often in collaboration with the Natural Learning Initiative’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience and growth of all children. You can explore and use these resources on their website https://naturalearning.org/resources/. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If I may be of further assistance, please contact me by phone at 252-333-2084 or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, may also be contacted at (252) 373-4199. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: STEPPING STONES DAY CARE Facility ID: 70000153 Consultant: ANNE BUCK Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 11/19/2024 Number Present: 4 Completed Date: 11/19/2024 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 12:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced Annual Compliance Visit today was to monitor this program for compliance with applicable child care requirements. The Owner/operator assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 10/14/22 earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for serving no more than two children under one year of age. Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS is implemented (SB 425). This means that you do not need to schedule a rated license assessment unless you voluntarily request one. The new QRIS has been approved by the Child Care Commission. The Division is working on implementation and trainings for the new system. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 12/12/23. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 96% as of 11/18/24. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. Hands were washed as required. Breakfast was observed and consisted of scrambled eggs, whole wheat toast, apple slices, and milk. The children then toileted, washed hands and prepared to go outside. A fenced back yard continues to be used for gross motor play. The children had access to swings, playhouses, and push cars. Corporation Status: Per your statements and according to the NC Secretary of State's website, this facility is not currently owned or operated by a corporation. Please contact me prior to any changes regarding the ownership of this facility. The Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families / Child Care Resource & Referral is able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on child care issues and the Environment Rating Scales. Their phone number is (252) 333-1233 or check out their website at www.albemarleafc.org. The following violation(s) were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 906 Authorization to seek medical care in the parent's absence was not available. Three, out of 10 children’s files reviewed, did not have a signature for permission. .1721(a)(3)(I) 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. One child, enrolled on 9/23/24, did not have a medical exam on file for review today. GS 110-91(1); 10A NCAC 09.1721(a)(1) 1406 Authorization for up to 6 months to administer prescription or over-the-counter medication, when needed, for chronic medical conditions and for allergic reactions was not in writing and did not contain information required by rule 10 NCAC 09 .1720(c)(6)(A-I). One child, FH, had a medical permission form on file for Ventolin HFA that expired on 1/19/23. 10A NCAC 09 .1720(b)(4) 1920 Indoor and outdoor area was not checked daily for debris, vandalism, broken equipment, and animal waste. There was duct tape covering the chains supporting the swings. The tape was old and shredding. .1719(a)(17) 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 accessible to children under 2 years of age in the shower of the bathroom the children use. There was also a plastic bag on top of the washing machine the children walk past to use the bathroom. .1719(a)(18) Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, the Items Number Listing (can be used as a detailed checklist of required items) and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Check the designated facility email at least weekly to stay current with communication and email blasts from DCDEE. If your email is not the facility email, sign up for email blasts on the What’s New page for general information and communication from DCDEE. 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 12/3/24, 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: Anne Buck, Child Care Consultant PO Box 2363 Elizabeth City, NC 27906 Anne.Buck@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Parental Permission to Administer Medication - Parents must give a provider written authorization to administer any medication. These forms must be kept current even if the child has not used the medication or a long period. One child, FH, had a medical permission form on file for Ventolin HFA that expired on 1/19/23. Per our discussion, consider having parents sign new permission forms when they review their application yearly. Some forms may need to be renewed every 6 months. This helps with tracking when each form expires. Checking all medication permission forms at least monthly will also help to ensure that the information is current and accurate. You must be diligent in your adherence to the medication administration policy and procedures to prevent any inadvertent medication errors, which may be harmful to the child. Authorization for Emergency Medical Care - Emergency situations can occur quickly and without warning. Having a plan in place and knowing what to do is your best protection. A parent/guardian’s signature giving permission to administer emergency care is a required part of the child’s application. This ensures that you have the authority to get the medical care a child needs in an emergency situation. Three, out of 10 children’s files reviewed, did not have a signature for permission. Per our discussion, whoever has legal custody of the child can sign giving permission for the emergency care. Children’s Health Assessment - Each child shall have a health assessment before being admitted or within 30 days following admission to a child care facility. One child, enrolled on 9/23/24, did not have a medical exam on file for review today. You stated that the guardian brought the sealed report but when it was opened, the health care provider had not completed their part of the form. You have sent it back and asked the guardian to obtain the full report. Per our discussion, consider requiring parents and guardians to supply all required information prior to being enrolled. This helps prevent having to go back and try to get them to complete the requirements before the child care rule deadlines. If you incorporate this, you must update your policies and procedures and share the update with all parents within 14 days of making the change. Plastic Bags - Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. In child care facilities, plastic bags must be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. Plastic bags were accessible to children under 2 years of age in the shower of the bathroom the children use. There was also a plastic bag on top of the washing machine the children walk past to use the bathroom. To make plastic bags inaccessible to children less than three years old, store them above five feet from the finished floor. You must go through your facility and ensure all plastic bags are stored 5 feet above the floor or in locked storage. Playground Safety - Regular outdoor inspections are critical to prevent deterioration of equipment and accumulation of hazardous materials in the play. It also ensures that appropriate repairs are made as soon as possible. The outdoor play area should be inspected daily to ensure the materials are in good repair and ready for use by the children. There was duct tape on the chains supporting the swings. The tape was old and shredding. This must be removed. If the chains are in poor repair, they must also be removed. You have 4 swings in good condition so children would still have access to these if the other swings were removed. Additional Information: Caring for Children with Custody Orders - In situations where a child has a custody order with the court, you must request a copy of the order to ensure you have accurate information as to who can make decisions for the child’s wellbeing. It also clearly identifies who can pick up the child or have access to the child’s records. Parents have the right to access their child unless a court order states that they do not have legal custody rights. You must have access to this information to be able to make informed decisions concerning the child. Whenever you see an application that does not list both parents or lists a guardian, you should inquire about a court order and require a copy before starting care. ABCMS Requirements - 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. Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - New child care rules require child care facilities to test for lead in drinking water, lead paint, and asbestos. Testing is required by 1/1/2025. Check out the FAQ in the updated Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids. Currently there is funding to pay for the testing and to mitigate lead paint or asbestos hazards. Depending on the age of your home and the information you provide in the enrollment process, testing for lead paint and asbestos may not be required. For more information go to https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ or contact your Environmental Health Specialist. Status: Water – Completed 6/18/24 – Mitigation Needed Lead Paint – Waiting for on-site results Asbestos – Waiting for on-site results North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project - NCRLAP’s mission is to promote the quality of child care by consistently and reliably assessing environments for the North Carolina Star Rated License. They collaborate with professionals in the early childhood education field to foster the development and learning of young children. Their website, ncrlap.org, offers resources, trainings, videos, worksheets, and help to get ready for the new ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and FCCRS-3 assessment tools that will be used in the new QRIS system. Natural Learning Initiative has created resources, often in collaboration with the Natural Learning Initiative’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience and growth of all children. You can explore and use these resources on their website https://naturalearning.org/resources/. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If I may be of further assistance, please contact me by phone at 252-333-2084 or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, may also be contacted at (252) 373-4199. 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: STEPPING STONES DAY CARE Facility ID: 70000153 Consultant: ANNE BUCK Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 11/19/2024 Number Present: 4 Completed Date: 11/19/2024 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 12:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced Annual Compliance Visit today was to monitor this program for compliance with applicable child care requirements. The Owner/operator assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 10/14/22 earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for serving no more than two children under one year of age. Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS is implemented (SB 425). This means that you do not need to schedule a rated license assessment unless you voluntarily request one. The new QRIS has been approved by the Child Care Commission. The Division is working on implementation and trainings for the new system. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 12/12/23. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 96% as of 11/18/24. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. Hands were washed as required. Breakfast was observed and consisted of scrambled eggs, whole wheat toast, apple slices, and milk. The children then toileted, washed hands and prepared to go outside. A fenced back yard continues to be used for gross motor play. The children had access to swings, playhouses, and push cars. Corporation Status: Per your statements and according to the NC Secretary of State's website, this facility is not currently owned or operated by a corporation. Please contact me prior to any changes regarding the ownership of this facility. The Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families / Child Care Resource & Referral is able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on child care issues and the Environment Rating Scales. Their phone number is (252) 333-1233 or check out their website at www.albemarleafc.org. The following violation(s) were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 906 Authorization to seek medical care in the parent's absence was not available. Three, out of 10 children’s files reviewed, did not have a signature for permission. .1721(a)(3)(I) 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. One child, enrolled on 9/23/24, did not have a medical exam on file for review today. GS 110-91(1); 10A NCAC 09.1721(a)(1) 1406 Authorization for up to 6 months to administer prescription or over-the-counter medication, when needed, for chronic medical conditions and for allergic reactions was not in writing and did not contain information required by rule 10 NCAC 09 .1720(c)(6)(A-I). One child, FH, had a medical permission form on file for Ventolin HFA that expired on 1/19/23. 10A NCAC 09 .1720(b)(4) 1920 Indoor and outdoor area was not checked daily for debris, vandalism, broken equipment, and animal waste. There was duct tape covering the chains supporting the swings. The tape was old and shredding. .1719(a)(17) 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 accessible to children under 2 years of age in the shower of the bathroom the children use. There was also a plastic bag on top of the washing machine the children walk past to use the bathroom. .1719(a)(18) Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, the Items Number Listing (can be used as a detailed checklist of required items) and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Check the designated facility email at least weekly to stay current with communication and email blasts from DCDEE. If your email is not the facility email, sign up for email blasts on the What’s New page for general information and communication from DCDEE. 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 12/3/24, 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: Anne Buck, Child Care Consultant PO Box 2363 Elizabeth City, NC 27906 Anne.Buck@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Parental Permission to Administer Medication - Parents must give a provider written authorization to administer any medication. These forms must be kept current even if the child has not used the medication or a long period. One child, FH, had a medical permission form on file for Ventolin HFA that expired on 1/19/23. Per our discussion, consider having parents sign new permission forms when they review their application yearly. Some forms may need to be renewed every 6 months. This helps with tracking when each form expires. Checking all medication permission forms at least monthly will also help to ensure that the information is current and accurate. You must be diligent in your adherence to the medication administration policy and procedures to prevent any inadvertent medication errors, which may be harmful to the child. Authorization for Emergency Medical Care - Emergency situations can occur quickly and without warning. Having a plan in place and knowing what to do is your best protection. A parent/guardian’s signature giving permission to administer emergency care is a required part of the child’s application. This ensures that you have the authority to get the medical care a child needs in an emergency situation. Three, out of 10 children’s files reviewed, did not have a signature for permission. Per our discussion, whoever has legal custody of the child can sign giving permission for the emergency care. Children’s Health Assessment - Each child shall have a health assessment before being admitted or within 30 days following admission to a child care facility. One child, enrolled on 9/23/24, did not have a medical exam on file for review today. You stated that the guardian brought the sealed report but when it was opened, the health care provider had not completed their part of the form. You have sent it back and asked the guardian to obtain the full report. Per our discussion, consider requiring parents and guardians to supply all required information prior to being enrolled. This helps prevent having to go back and try to get them to complete the requirements before the child care rule deadlines. If you incorporate this, you must update your policies and procedures and share the update with all parents within 14 days of making the change. Plastic Bags - Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. In child care facilities, plastic bags must be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. Plastic bags were accessible to children under 2 years of age in the shower of the bathroom the children use. There was also a plastic bag on top of the washing machine the children walk past to use the bathroom. To make plastic bags inaccessible to children less than three years old, store them above five feet from the finished floor. You must go through your facility and ensure all plastic bags are stored 5 feet above the floor or in locked storage. Playground Safety - Regular outdoor inspections are critical to prevent deterioration of equipment and accumulation of hazardous materials in the play. It also ensures that appropriate repairs are made as soon as possible. The outdoor play area should be inspected daily to ensure the materials are in good repair and ready for use by the children. There was duct tape on the chains supporting the swings. The tape was old and shredding. This must be removed. If the chains are in poor repair, they must also be removed. You have 4 swings in good condition so children would still have access to these if the other swings were removed. Additional Information: Caring for Children with Custody Orders - In situations where a child has a custody order with the court, you must request a copy of the order to ensure you have accurate information as to who can make decisions for the child’s wellbeing. It also clearly identifies who can pick up the child or have access to the child’s records. Parents have the right to access their child unless a court order states that they do not have legal custody rights. You must have access to this information to be able to make informed decisions concerning the child. Whenever you see an application that does not list both parents or lists a guardian, you should inquire about a court order and require a copy before starting care. ABCMS Requirements - 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. Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - New child care rules require child care facilities to test for lead in drinking water, lead paint, and asbestos. Testing is required by 1/1/2025. Check out the FAQ in the updated Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids. Currently there is funding to pay for the testing and to mitigate lead paint or asbestos hazards. Depending on the age of your home and the information you provide in the enrollment process, testing for lead paint and asbestos may not be required. For more information go to https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ or contact your Environmental Health Specialist. Status: Water – Completed 6/18/24 – Mitigation Needed Lead Paint – Waiting for on-site results Asbestos – Waiting for on-site results North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project - NCRLAP’s mission is to promote the quality of child care by consistently and reliably assessing environments for the North Carolina Star Rated License. They collaborate with professionals in the early childhood education field to foster the development and learning of young children. Their website, ncrlap.org, offers resources, trainings, videos, worksheets, and help to get ready for the new ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and FCCRS-3 assessment tools that will be used in the new QRIS system. Natural Learning Initiative has created resources, often in collaboration with the Natural Learning Initiative’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience and growth of all children. You can explore and use these resources on their website https://naturalearning.org/resources/. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If I may be of further assistance, please contact me by phone at 252-333-2084 or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, may also be contacted at (252) 373-4199. 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: STEPPING STONES DAY CARE Facility ID: 70000153 Consultant: ANNE BUCK Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 11/19/2024 Number Present: 4 Completed Date: 11/19/2024 Age: From 1 To 4 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 12:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced Annual Compliance Visit today was to monitor this program for compliance with applicable child care requirements. The Owner/operator assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 10/14/22 earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for serving no more than two children under one year of age. Hold harmless has been extended until the new QRIS is implemented (SB 425). This means that you do not need to schedule a rated license assessment unless you voluntarily request one. The new QRIS has been approved by the Child Care Commission. The Division is working on implementation and trainings for the new system. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 12/12/23. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 96% as of 11/18/24. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions and personal care routines. Hands were washed as required. Breakfast was observed and consisted of scrambled eggs, whole wheat toast, apple slices, and milk. The children then toileted, washed hands and prepared to go outside. A fenced back yard continues to be used for gross motor play. The children had access to swings, playhouses, and push cars. Corporation Status: Per your statements and according to the NC Secretary of State's website, this facility is not currently owned or operated by a corporation. Please contact me prior to any changes regarding the ownership of this facility. The Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families / Child Care Resource & Referral is able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on child care issues and the Environment Rating Scales. Their phone number is (252) 333-1233 or check out their website at www.albemarleafc.org. The following violation(s) were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 906 Authorization to seek medical care in the parent's absence was not available. Three, out of 10 children’s files reviewed, did not have a signature for permission. .1721(a)(3)(I) 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. One child, enrolled on 9/23/24, did not have a medical exam on file for review today. GS 110-91(1); 10A NCAC 09.1721(a)(1) 1406 Authorization for up to 6 months to administer prescription or over-the-counter medication, when needed, for chronic medical conditions and for allergic reactions was not in writing and did not contain information required by rule 10 NCAC 09 .1720(c)(6)(A-I). One child, FH, had a medical permission form on file for Ventolin HFA that expired on 1/19/23. 10A NCAC 09 .1720(b)(4) 1920 Indoor and outdoor area was not checked daily for debris, vandalism, broken equipment, and animal waste. There was duct tape covering the chains supporting the swings. The tape was old and shredding. .1719(a)(17) 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 accessible to children under 2 years of age in the shower of the bathroom the children use. There was also a plastic bag on top of the washing machine the children walk past to use the bathroom. .1719(a)(18) Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules and environmental health rules in North Carolina, the Items Number Listing (can be used as a detailed checklist of required items) and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Check the designated facility email at least weekly to stay current with communication and email blasts from DCDEE. If your email is not the facility email, sign up for email blasts on the What’s New page for general information and communication from DCDEE. 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 12/3/24, 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: Anne Buck, Child Care Consultant PO Box 2363 Elizabeth City, NC 27906 Anne.Buck@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Parental Permission to Administer Medication - Parents must give a provider written authorization to administer any medication. These forms must be kept current even if the child has not used the medication or a long period. One child, FH, had a medical permission form on file for Ventolin HFA that expired on 1/19/23. Per our discussion, consider having parents sign new permission forms when they review their application yearly. Some forms may need to be renewed every 6 months. This helps with tracking when each form expires. Checking all medication permission forms at least monthly will also help to ensure that the information is current and accurate. You must be diligent in your adherence to the medication administration policy and procedures to prevent any inadvertent medication errors, which may be harmful to the child. Authorization for Emergency Medical Care - Emergency situations can occur quickly and without warning. Having a plan in place and knowing what to do is your best protection. A parent/guardian’s signature giving permission to administer emergency care is a required part of the child’s application. This ensures that you have the authority to get the medical care a child needs in an emergency situation. Three, out of 10 children’s files reviewed, did not have a signature for permission. Per our discussion, whoever has legal custody of the child can sign giving permission for the emergency care. Children’s Health Assessment - Each child shall have a health assessment before being admitted or within 30 days following admission to a child care facility. One child, enrolled on 9/23/24, did not have a medical exam on file for review today. You stated that the guardian brought the sealed report but when it was opened, the health care provider had not completed their part of the form. You have sent it back and asked the guardian to obtain the full report. Per our discussion, consider requiring parents and guardians to supply all required information prior to being enrolled. This helps prevent having to go back and try to get them to complete the requirements before the child care rule deadlines. If you incorporate this, you must update your policies and procedures and share the update with all parents within 14 days of making the change. Plastic Bags - Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. In child care facilities, plastic bags must be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. Plastic bags were accessible to children under 2 years of age in the shower of the bathroom the children use. There was also a plastic bag on top of the washing machine the children walk past to use the bathroom. To make plastic bags inaccessible to children less than three years old, store them above five feet from the finished floor. You must go through your facility and ensure all plastic bags are stored 5 feet above the floor or in locked storage. Playground Safety - Regular outdoor inspections are critical to prevent deterioration of equipment and accumulation of hazardous materials in the play. It also ensures that appropriate repairs are made as soon as possible. The outdoor play area should be inspected daily to ensure the materials are in good repair and ready for use by the children. There was duct tape on the chains supporting the swings. The tape was old and shredding. This must be removed. If the chains are in poor repair, they must also be removed. You have 4 swings in good condition so children would still have access to these if the other swings were removed. Additional Information: Caring for Children with Custody Orders - In situations where a child has a custody order with the court, you must request a copy of the order to ensure you have accurate information as to who can make decisions for the child’s wellbeing. It also clearly identifies who can pick up the child or have access to the child’s records. Parents have the right to access their child unless a court order states that they do not have legal custody rights. You must have access to this information to be able to make informed decisions concerning the child. Whenever you see an application that does not list both parents or lists a guardian, you should inquire about a court order and require a copy before starting care. ABCMS Requirements - 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. Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - New child care rules require child care facilities to test for lead in drinking water, lead paint, and asbestos. Testing is required by 1/1/2025. Check out the FAQ in the updated Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids. Currently there is funding to pay for the testing and to mitigate lead paint or asbestos hazards. Depending on the age of your home and the information you provide in the enrollment process, testing for lead paint and asbestos may not be required. For more information go to https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ or contact your Environmental Health Specialist. Status: Water – Completed 6/18/24 – Mitigation Needed Lead Paint – Waiting for on-site results Asbestos – Waiting for on-site results North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project - NCRLAP’s mission is to promote the quality of child care by consistently and reliably assessing environments for the North Carolina Star Rated License. They collaborate with professionals in the early childhood education field to foster the development and learning of young children. Their website, ncrlap.org, offers resources, trainings, videos, worksheets, and help to get ready for the new ITERS-3, ECERS-3, and FCCRS-3 assessment tools that will be used in the new QRIS system. Natural Learning Initiative has created resources, often in collaboration with the Natural Learning Initiative’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience and growth of all children. You can explore and use these resources on their website https://naturalearning.org/resources/. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If I may be of further assistance, please contact me by phone at 252-333-2084 or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, may also be contacted at (252) 373-4199. 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: STEPPING STONES DAY CARE Facility ID: 70000153 Consultant: ANNE BUCK Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 12/12/2023 Number Present: 3 Completed Date: 12/12/2023 Age: From 0 To 3 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 12:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced Annual Compliance Visit today was to monitor this program for compliance with applicable child care requirements. V. Burnham-Butts, Owner/operator, assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 10/14/22 earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for serving no more than two children under one year of age. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four and five star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. You are currently using the Creative Curriculum. On June 27, 2023, the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) introduced a cohort model and timeline for resuming the star rated license reassessments. This cohort model includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. Your facility will be in Cohort 3 which means your preparation year will be 7/1/25-6/30/26 and your reassessment year will be 7/1/26-6/30/27. There are opportunities within the preparation year that will help prepare your facility for the reassessment year. Additional information and supports are available on the Division website under Providers, Licensing, Star Rated License, and Resuming Star Rated License. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 1/19/23. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 93% as of 12/8/23. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. The children were having free play time in the approved child care space. They colored with markers and chalk on an easel and played Spiderman in dramatic play. They then transitioned to center time where a book was read on sea creatures. The provider asked questions as they read. Another child arrived later in the morning. Information on the child’s health was shared. While the older children colored, the youngest child was allowed to move around the room and was offered age-appropriate materials. At 10:30, per the posted schedule, the children went outside to the fenced playground. There were 3 stationary climbing structures, push cars, and dramatic play materials for the children to use. Lunch was observed and consisted of a chicken sandwich on wheat bread, peas, pears, and milk. Corporation Status: Per your statements and according to the NC Secretary of State's website, this facility is not currently owned or operated by a corporation. Please contact me prior to any changes regarding the ownership of this facility. The Albemarle Alliance for Children and Families / Child Care Resource & Referral is able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on child care issues and the Environment Rating Scales. Their phone number is (252) 333-1233 or check out their website at www.albemarleafc.org. The following violation(s) were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 716 Electrical outlets not in use were not covered. An extension cord, located in the hallway where school age children work on homework, had 3 outlets that were not covered. 10A NCAC .1719(a)(27) 2033 Signed discipline statement did not include the required information, as outlined in rule. The signature page on file for JS, did not have documentation of the enrollment date. .1727(c )(1-3) As a licensed child care operator, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to maintain compliance with them. The NC General Statutes (Updated September 2020), Child Care Rules (Updated February 2021), and the “What’s New” section of The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website, ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov, are excellent resources to help you stay current with the child care requirements. The most current forms and documents needed for your licensed facility are available under the Provider tab. Many of them are now interactive so that you can type right into the form. Many of the forms needed for families are now offered in Spanish too. And of course, I am also available to assist you, should you have questions about the child care requirements. 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 were corrected during the visit, therefore you are not required to submit a compliance verification letter. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided by you is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. Technical Assistance: Discipline Policy - Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important because it ensures the health and safety of each child. A discipline policy must be reviewed with each parent prior to enrollment, and they must sign the form showing this was completed. The date of enrollment must be indicated on the form to demonstrate this review was done before the child started in the center. The signature page on file for JS, did not have documentation of the enrollment date. You have begun using a signature page to document the review of your policies with parents. Per our discussion, this form must include the required information for all the forms listed on the document. It should include the child’s name, the date of enrollment, the parent signature, and the date of the signature. There should be a line next to each form listed for the parent to initial that the information was received. Electrical Outlets - Approximately 2,400 children are injured annually by inserting objects into the slots of electrical outlets. An extension cord, located in the hallway where school age children work on homework, had 3 outlets that were not covered. All electrical outlets not in use, and accessible to children, must be protected with an outlet cover. This includes unused outlets on power strips and extension cords. This violation was corrected during the visit. Additional Information: Medications - Administering medication requires skill, knowledge, and careful attention to detail. Remember, before accepting medication from a parent, you must have: 1. The medication in the original pharmacy box with all the required information. Make sure the expiration date on the box matches the date on the medication. 2. A Medical Action Plan completed by a physician attached to the child’s application in their file and in the Ready to Go file. 3. Written permission to administer the medication, with complete instructions for how and when the medication is to be administered and signed by the parent. You would use the long form for chronic conditions for this type of medication. Before receiving any medication from a parent, you must carefully review the medication, the pharmacy box, the medical action plan, and the permission to administer forms to ensure everything is correct and all information matches. Consider creating a checklist to complete each time medication is brought to the facility to help staff verify they have all the required information. The Healthy Social Behaviors (HSB) Project supports teachers to promote healthy social-emotional development and reduce the expulsion rate among young children in licensed child care centers across North Carolina. The team is made up of specialists with early childhood education backgrounds who are passionate about empowering teachers to develop learning environments and teaching practices that promote prosocial skills in young children. To speak to a Behavior Support Advisor, contact 1-888-600-1685 option 1. License fee collection moved to December - There are a few changes to the Annual License Fee process this year: • All invoices will be emailed, and no paper copies will be sent through the U.S. Postal Service. • All invoices will be emailed by December 1, 2023, and will include the invoice number and total amount due. • All payments are due no later than December 31, 2023 Payments must be submitted online only through the Division’s website using a Mastercard or Visa debit or credit card, or by e-check. Providers will need their Facility ID number and their 2023 Invoice number to complete the payment process. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If I may be of further assistance, please contact me by phone at 252-333-2084 or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, may also be contacted at (252) 373-4199. 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: STEPPING STONES DAY CARE Facility ID: 70000153 Consultant: ANNE BUCK Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 7/20/2023 Number Present: 4 Completed Date: 7/20/2023 Age: From 3 To 6 Total Minutes: 145 Time In: 11:50 AM Time Out: 02:15 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 compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. V. Butts, Owner/operator, assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 10/14/22 earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for: Serves no more than 2 children less than 1 year of age. On June 27, 2023, the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) introduced a cohort model and timeline for resuming the star rated license reassessments. This cohort model includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. Your facility will be in Cohort 3 which means your preparation year will be 7/1/25-6/30/26 and your reassessment year will be 7/1/26-6/30/27. There are opportunities within the preparation year that will help prepare your facility for the reassessment year. Additional information and supports are available on the Division website under Providers, Licensing, Star Rated License, and Resuming Star Rated License. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 1/19/23. The facilities’ compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 89% as of 7/20/23. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. The children were playing in a sprinkler in the back yard when I arrived. When they returned inside, the operator supervised changing clothes and washing hands in the bathroom. They then transitioned to lunch. Lunch was observed and consisted of ham or turkey lunch meat on whole wheat bread. The children were assisted in building their own sandwich. Pineapple, green beans, and 2 % milk were also served. After lunch, the children rested on linen covered cots. The following violation(s) were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 701 All indoor and outdoor areas used by the children were not kept clean, orderly, and free of items which are potentially hazardous to children including removal of items a child can swallow; the removal of loose nails or screws and splinters on inside; and use of outdoor equipment that is too hot to touch. The playhouse beside the storage shed in the back corner of the yard had standing water in the window box. Mold and mildew were growing in the bottom. Mildew was also growing on the outside of the structure and on the chairs inside. Two swings had “S” hooks holding the seat. The posts and lattice on the older stationary climbing structure have become weathered and rough and could cause injury to a child. .1719(a)(1)&(17) As a licensed child care operator, it is your responsibility to be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and to maintain compliance with them. The NC General Statutes (Updated September 2020), Child Care Rules (Updated February 2021), and the “What’s New” section of The Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website, ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov, are excellent resources to help you stay current with the child care requirements. The most current forms and documents needed for your licensed facility are available under the Provider tab. Many of them are now interactive so that you can type right into the form. Many of the forms needed for families are now offered in Spanish too. And of course, I am also available to assist you, should you have questions about the child care requirements. 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 8/3/23, 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: Anne Buck, Child Care Consultant PO Box 2363 Elizabeth City, NC 27906 Anne.Buck@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Playground Safety - Regular outdoor inspections are critical to prevent deterioration of equipment and accumulation of hazardous materials within the outdoor play area and to ensure that appropriate repairs are made as soon as possible. The playhouse beside the storage shed in the back corner of the yard had standing water in the window box. Mold and mildew were growing in the bottom. Mildew was also growing on the outside of the structure and on the chairs inside. Two swings had “S” hooks holding the seat. The outdoor play area should be inspected daily to ensure the materials are clean and ready for use by the children. Per our discussion, consider drilling a small hole in any places on outdoor materials that hold water. This allows the water to drain through and prevent mildew. All materials should be thoroughly cleaned at least monthly to prevent mildew growth and remove dirt. You must replace the “S” hooks on the swings to prevent children’s clothing from catching and causing injury. The posts and lattice on the older stationary climbing structure have become weathered and rough. The structure’s posts and lattice must be made smooth. This could be done by sanding or applying wood putty and paint. You stated that you would clean the materials and replace the “S” hooks. You also stated that you would contact someone to maintenance the structure. Remember: Health and Safety Training and Five (5) Year Cycle Requirements - Providers are required to complete Health & Safety Training (H&S Training) within one year of hire and then complete training in all topic areas every five years. You and your staff originally completed your initial Health & Safety Training in 2018. Use the Health & Safety Training Log, available on the DCDEE website under Provider Documents, to document and track all H&S Trainings. Attach a certificate for each training topic area to the log. These trainings can also be used to meet annual on-going training requirements. If you have not yet met this requirement, free H&S Trainings, developed specifically for providers in North Carolina, are available in Moodle on the DCDEE website. Southwestern Child Development Commission, www.swcdcinc.org, also offers an approved on-line option for H&S Training for a reasonable fee. Once staff have completed the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment on the Prevent Child Abuse NC website, any approved training related to Child Maltreatment can be used to meet this topic area for the five-year cycle. Additional Information: MCCYN-PLUS expansion in NC - Child care programs with a license rated 3 stars or higher can now participate in the military’s fee assistance program. The Department of Defense and Child Care Aware® of America have launched the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-PLUS (MCCYN-PLUS) initiative to make it easier for North Carolina’s military families to access and afford quality child care from community providers. Child care programs with a license rated 3 stars or higher in the state’s quality rating and improvement program are eligible to apply. In addition to increasing the number of quality child care options for military families, MCCYN-PLUS gives eligible child care providers an opportunity to support and expand their businesses. Providers interested in qualifying for MCCYN-PLUS can apply through Child Care Aware® of America. Moodle Support - The Division offers early childhood professionals a wide range of professional development opportunities through the online learning platform Moodle. DCDEE has established a new support email address and phone number to help providers navigate Moodle. To get help with Moodle, email DCDEE_Moodle_Support@dhhs.nc.gov or call (919) 814-6326. The NC Early Childhood Credential Equivalency Exam is another pathway option comparable to a NC Early Childhood Credential. This equivalency exam assesses the foundations of culturally responsive, equitable and inclusive early childhood education, planning intentional developmentally appropriate experiences, learning activities, and teaching strategies for indoor and outdoor environments for all young children, guidance techniques, and professionalism. This option is now available on Moodle at no cost. Before staff take the test, they should review the NC Child Care Rules, the NC Foundations of Early Education and Development, and the most current version of Caring for Our Children. Each of these will help them prepare to score well on the test. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. If I may be of further assistance, please contact me by phone at 252-333-2084 or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, may also be contacted at (252) 373-4199. 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