Childcare Network #109

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: YOLANDA PRIDGEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0626-186L Visit Date: 6/24/2026 Number Present: 52 Completed Date: 6/24/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 420 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 04:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate an allegation regarding violations of child care requirements. The most recent Annual Compliance Visit was completed April 7, 2026, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 85%, as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Five (5) Star License issued November 2, 2024. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, five (5) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Staff benefits package and Infrastructure of parent involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct Vonda Leak. The owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of superior completed January 9, 2026. Fire Classification of approved for daytime care only completed May 20, 2026. A copy was received during today’s visit. There are allegations of violations of child care requirements including but not limited to: • Incident Reports • Sanitation V. Leak, new administrator, was present and accompanied me while observing the indoor and outdoor areas. Assistant director, Kendra Thompson, was present and assisted during the visit. In space #2, I observed two infants resting in their individual cribs while other infants played with soft toys, received tummy time on the floor, and explored the classroom area. I observed a teacher complete diapering and hand washing procedures with an infant. Preschool-aged children in all other spaces were engaged in free choice activities both indoors and outdoors. Indoors, children were engaged in playing with framed puzzles, sitting at child-sized tables playing with nesting toys, and making and flying paper airplanes. A group of children were observed in pretend play with community helpers in a playhouse. In the outdoor area, I observed children climbing stationary equipment, riding tricycles, and dumping and filling containers in the sand pit. Upon return indoors, staff assisted children with completing toilet training and hand washing routines. For lunch, the cook served turkey potpie, peas, carrots, and milk. Children were observed resting in individual cribs and cots as soft instrumental music played. A Staff Records and Training Worksheet was completed for five (5) new employees and staff files were monitored. The most current monthly fire drill and playground inspection were completed on May 28, 2026. The quarterly lockdown emergency drill was completed on June 12, 2026. A monthly playground inspection was conducted on June 4, 2026. The allegations regarding program records and adequate supervision were discussed with administrators including Debbi Jack, District Manager, was off-site, during the visit. I interviewed two (2) staff members including the administrators about incidents that occur within the facility regarding sanitation during diapering procedures, incident reports, and documenting program records. All staff interviewed stated that they were aware on the incident that occurred when a toddler tripped and fell in the outdoor area. Staff stated the one (1) year old child was walking on the playground when they tripped on the boarder surrounding the surfacing underneath stationary equipment. Both teachers stated they observed the child and did not see any issues visible. Following rest time, teachers stated they observed a small scratch on the child’s lower lip. One teacher stated an incident report was completed and shared with the child’s parent at the time of departure on the same day. Based on records reviewed, the incident was signed by the parent, the teacher who observed the incident, and an administrator on June 5, 2026. Diapering procedures were monitored in multiple classrooms. Based on staff interviews and documentation on file, teachers stated diaper changing and visible diaper checks occur every two hours or less. Administrators stated diaper changing is documented in the digital app however a diapering changing chart would be placed in each classroom to assist staff with additional documenting. During today’s visit, incident report forms and logs, documentation of diaper changing were monitored. Based on documentation monitored, observations, and information gathered from staff interviews, the allegation that sanitation requirements were not met was determined to be unsubstantiated. Based on documentation monitored, observations, and information gathered from staff interviews, the allegation that incident reports and logs were not shared with families nor maintained was determined to be unsubstantiated. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with administrators. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The facility's most current fire inspection was completed on May 20, 2026 and a copy of the report was not submitted within one week of the inspection visit. The violation was completed when a copy of the report was submitted during the visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The most current activity plan posted in space #3b was dated May 11, 2026. The violation was corrected when the teacher posted a current activity plan in the classroom. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Accessible to children in spaces #3a, staff members' personal purses were stored in an unlocked closet. In space #8, a staff member's purse was stored on top of open shelves which were not locked. The violation was corrected when staff removed their purses and placed them in a clocked cabinet in the classroom. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Accessible to children in space #3a, a box of plastic gloves were stored in the diaper changing area. The violation was corrected when the teacher moved the gloves and placed them in a cabinet five feet above the finished floor and in close proximity to the diapering area. .0604(q) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Four (4) staff members did not complete the required Emergency Information form on or before their first day of work. The violation was corrected when teacher completed the Emergency Information form during today's visit. .0701(a) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must were corrected immediately therefore a compliance letter is not required. Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: Fire Inspection: A violation was cited for the facility not submitting the annual fire inspection within one week of the inspection date. The most current fire inspection was conducted on May 20, 2026. As a reminder, the fire inspection must be completed on the form provided by DCDEE and submitted to the child care consultant within one week of the inspection. For more information, refer to NC Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a). Storage of Hazardous Items: The violation for storage of hazardous items was cited today. Properly storing hazardous materials is important because if in reach of children, may present a poison hazard if ingested, inhaled, or handled. I shared that additional information regarding the storage of medication can be found in Child Care Sanitation Rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b). A copy of the “Hazardous Items Storage for Child Care” resource may be obtained from our website. We also discussed the following strategies for achieving and maintaining compliance: review the resource with staff at your next staff meeting; remind staff to check behind the other; and periodically check classroom spaces throughout the day to ensure all hazardous items are locked. Choking Hazards: A violation was cited during today’s visit for items that were potential choking hazards accessible to children under three years of age. I recommended staff make all plastics and potential choking hazards inaccessible to children under three years of age. Additional information regarding plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart can be found in NC Child Care rule 10A NCAC .0604 (q). NCDHHS Responds to Increase in Measles Cases: Measles is on the rise globally and in North Carolina. As a highly contagious, airborne disease, even one case is a major priority for public health. NCDHHS is taking action by launching new outreach resources for child care providers, families, and community stakeholders to help curb the spread. Child care providers can share information about vaccinations with the families served and be informed with the most current information. For more information and to access tools and resources, visit NCDHHS at dph.ncdhhs.gov/measles. Challenging Behaviors: Do you have children who bite? Do children struggle to focus during circle time? Do challenging behaviors cause difficult transitions? Do you spend all day managing behavior? Are you at your wits' end? Help is available for these and other behavior challenges! The Challenging Behaviors Hotline has opened and is provided for Free. You may speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to challenging behaviors in your facility. Dial 1-888-600-1685 Option 1 or for more information go to www.childcareresourcesinc.org/challenging-behaviors-helpline. Outdoor Play: Every child must have an opportunity to be outdoors daily; if weather conditions permit. This requirement is for all ages including infants and toddlers. Due to extreme heat indices, it is important to remind parents about the requirement to go outdoors daily and that each child must come to school prepared to go outdoors. This includes bringing the appropriate clothes to child care and ensuring each child is able to participate in daily activities. Parents should determine whether their child is too sick to attend child care if they are unable to participate in the daily activities. The Weather watch chart must be used to determine “weather permitting”, and a thermometer may be posted outside a window, so staff can determine accurate temperatures. Ensure staff are trained in reading your posted Weather watch chart; you can also use the chart to help educate parents about when outdoor play should take place. For additional guidance, you may refer to the following requirements: Child Care Rule .0102 (27) "If weather conditions permit" means: (a) temperatures that fall within the guidelines developed by the Iowa Department of Public Health and specified on the Child Care Weather Watch chart. These guidelines shall be used when determining appropriate weather conditions for taking children outside for outdoor learning activities and playtime. This chart may be downloaded free of charge from https://hhs.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/portals/1/userfiles/128/child%20care%20weather%20watch%20june%202020%20final.pdf; and is incorporated by reference and includes subsequent editions and amendments; (b) following the air quality standards as set out in 15A NCAC 18A .2832(d). The Air Quality Color Guide can be found on the Division's web site at https://airquality.climate.ncsu.edu/air-guide/aq-datasets/ or call 1-888-RU4NCAIR (1- 888-784- 6224); and (c) no active precipitation. Caregivers may choose to go outdoors when there is active precipitation if children have appropriate clothing such as rain boots and raincoats, or if they are under a covered area. Sanitation Rule 2832(d): If a daily air quality forecast is made by the Division of Air Quality or the regional air quality agency for the county where a center is located, outdoor activity for children shall be restricted as follows. On days with a code orange (unhealthy for sensitive groups) forecast, children shall not be outside participating in physical activity between noon and 8:00 p.m. for more than one hour. On days with a code red (unhealthy) forecast, children shall not be outside participating in physical activity between noon and 8:00 p.m. for more than 15 minutes. On days with a code purple (very unhealthy) forecast, children shall not be outside participating in physical activity between noon and 8:00 p.m. Provisions shall be made to allow children with diagnosed asthma or with coughing or wheezing symptoms to participate in physical activity indoors on days with a code orange, red or purple air quality forecast. As you can see each code within the rule does not prohibit outdoor play, rather, it provides information on when considerations and adjustments should be made to the outdoor play schedule. Partner Update: Starting in June 2026, the administration of the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood (MCCYN) Program will transition from Child Care Aware of America (CCAoA) to the MilitaryChildCare.com Fee Assistance Management (MCC FAM) team. Visit the DCDEE website (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/) for updated requirements, forms, and other pertinent information. Please feel free to contact me at yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov or (910) 305-2371 or Rhonda Blackmon, Licensing Supervisor at rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov (910) 709-4168 if you have any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: YOLANDA PRIDGEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0626-186L Visit Date: 6/24/2026 Number Present: 52 Completed Date: 6/24/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 420 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 04:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate an allegation regarding violations of child care requirements. The most recent Annual Compliance Visit was completed April 7, 2026, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 85%, as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Five (5) Star License issued November 2, 2024. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, five (5) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Staff benefits package and Infrastructure of parent involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct Vonda Leak. The owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of superior completed January 9, 2026. Fire Classification of approved for daytime care only completed May 20, 2026. A copy was received during today’s visit. There are allegations of violations of child care requirements including but not limited to: • Incident Reports • Sanitation V. Leak, new administrator, was present and accompanied me while observing the indoor and outdoor areas. Assistant director, Kendra Thompson, was present and assisted during the visit. In space #2, I observed two infants resting in their individual cribs while other infants played with soft toys, received tummy time on the floor, and explored the classroom area. I observed a teacher complete diapering and hand washing procedures with an infant. Preschool-aged children in all other spaces were engaged in free choice activities both indoors and outdoors. Indoors, children were engaged in playing with framed puzzles, sitting at child-sized tables playing with nesting toys, and making and flying paper airplanes. A group of children were observed in pretend play with community helpers in a playhouse. In the outdoor area, I observed children climbing stationary equipment, riding tricycles, and dumping and filling containers in the sand pit. Upon return indoors, staff assisted children with completing toilet training and hand washing routines. For lunch, the cook served turkey potpie, peas, carrots, and milk. Children were observed resting in individual cribs and cots as soft instrumental music played. A Staff Records and Training Worksheet was completed for five (5) new employees and staff files were monitored. The most current monthly fire drill and playground inspection were completed on May 28, 2026. The quarterly lockdown emergency drill was completed on June 12, 2026. A monthly playground inspection was conducted on June 4, 2026. The allegations regarding program records and adequate supervision were discussed with administrators including Debbi Jack, District Manager, was off-site, during the visit. I interviewed two (2) staff members including the administrators about incidents that occur within the facility regarding sanitation during diapering procedures, incident reports, and documenting program records. All staff interviewed stated that they were aware on the incident that occurred when a toddler tripped and fell in the outdoor area. Staff stated the one (1) year old child was walking on the playground when they tripped on the boarder surrounding the surfacing underneath stationary equipment. Both teachers stated they observed the child and did not see any issues visible. Following rest time, teachers stated they observed a small scratch on the child’s lower lip. One teacher stated an incident report was completed and shared with the child’s parent at the time of departure on the same day. Based on records reviewed, the incident was signed by the parent, the teacher who observed the incident, and an administrator on June 5, 2026. Diapering procedures were monitored in multiple classrooms. Based on staff interviews and documentation on file, teachers stated diaper changing and visible diaper checks occur every two hours or less. Administrators stated diaper changing is documented in the digital app however a diapering changing chart would be placed in each classroom to assist staff with additional documenting. During today’s visit, incident report forms and logs, documentation of diaper changing were monitored. Based on documentation monitored, observations, and information gathered from staff interviews, the allegation that sanitation requirements were not met was determined to be unsubstantiated. Based on documentation monitored, observations, and information gathered from staff interviews, the allegation that incident reports and logs were not shared with families nor maintained was determined to be unsubstantiated. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with administrators. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The facility's most current fire inspection was completed on May 20, 2026 and a copy of the report was not submitted within one week of the inspection visit. The violation was completed when a copy of the report was submitted during the visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The most current activity plan posted in space #3b was dated May 11, 2026. The violation was corrected when the teacher posted a current activity plan in the classroom. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Accessible to children in spaces #3a, staff members' personal purses were stored in an unlocked closet. In space #8, a staff member's purse was stored on top of open shelves which were not locked. The violation was corrected when staff removed their purses and placed them in a clocked cabinet in the classroom. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Accessible to children in space #3a, a box of plastic gloves were stored in the diaper changing area. The violation was corrected when the teacher moved the gloves and placed them in a cabinet five feet above the finished floor and in close proximity to the diapering area. .0604(q) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Four (4) staff members did not complete the required Emergency Information form on or before their first day of work. The violation was corrected when teacher completed the Emergency Information form during today's visit. .0701(a) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must were corrected immediately therefore a compliance letter is not required. Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: Fire Inspection: A violation was cited for the facility not submitting the annual fire inspection within one week of the inspection date. The most current fire inspection was conducted on May 20, 2026. As a reminder, the fire inspection must be completed on the form provided by DCDEE and submitted to the child care consultant within one week of the inspection. For more information, refer to NC Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a). Storage of Hazardous Items: The violation for storage of hazardous items was cited today. Properly storing hazardous materials is important because if in reach of children, may present a poison hazard if ingested, inhaled, or handled. I shared that additional information regarding the storage of medication can be found in Child Care Sanitation Rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b). A copy of the “Hazardous Items Storage for Child Care” resource may be obtained from our website. We also discussed the following strategies for achieving and maintaining compliance: review the resource with staff at your next staff meeting; remind staff to check behind the other; and periodically check classroom spaces throughout the day to ensure all hazardous items are locked. Choking Hazards: A violation was cited during today’s visit for items that were potential choking hazards accessible to children under three years of age. I recommended staff make all plastics and potential choking hazards inaccessible to children under three years of age. Additional information regarding plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart can be found in NC Child Care rule 10A NCAC .0604 (q). NCDHHS Responds to Increase in Measles Cases: Measles is on the rise globally and in North Carolina. As a highly contagious, airborne disease, even one case is a major priority for public health. NCDHHS is taking action by launching new outreach resources for child care providers, families, and community stakeholders to help curb the spread. Child care providers can share information about vaccinations with the families served and be informed with the most current information. For more information and to access tools and resources, visit NCDHHS at dph.ncdhhs.gov/measles. Challenging Behaviors: Do you have children who bite? Do children struggle to focus during circle time? Do challenging behaviors cause difficult transitions? Do you spend all day managing behavior? Are you at your wits' end? Help is available for these and other behavior challenges! The Challenging Behaviors Hotline has opened and is provided for Free. You may speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to challenging behaviors in your facility. Dial 1-888-600-1685 Option 1 or for more information go to www.childcareresourcesinc.org/challenging-behaviors-helpline. Outdoor Play: Every child must have an opportunity to be outdoors daily; if weather conditions permit. This requirement is for all ages including infants and toddlers. Due to extreme heat indices, it is important to remind parents about the requirement to go outdoors daily and that each child must come to school prepared to go outdoors. This includes bringing the appropriate clothes to child care and ensuring each child is able to participate in daily activities. Parents should determine whether their child is too sick to attend child care if they are unable to participate in the daily activities. The Weather watch chart must be used to determine “weather permitting”, and a thermometer may be posted outside a window, so staff can determine accurate temperatures. Ensure staff are trained in reading your posted Weather watch chart; you can also use the chart to help educate parents about when outdoor play should take place. For additional guidance, you may refer to the following requirements: Child Care Rule .0102 (27) "If weather conditions permit" means: (a) temperatures that fall within the guidelines developed by the Iowa Department of Public Health and specified on the Child Care Weather Watch chart. These guidelines shall be used when determining appropriate weather conditions for taking children outside for outdoor learning activities and playtime. This chart may be downloaded free of charge from https://hhs.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/portals/1/userfiles/128/child%20care%20weather%20watch%20june%202020%20final.pdf; and is incorporated by reference and includes subsequent editions and amendments; (b) following the air quality standards as set out in 15A NCAC 18A .2832(d). The Air Quality Color Guide can be found on the Division's web site at https://airquality.climate.ncsu.edu/air-guide/aq-datasets/ or call 1-888-RU4NCAIR (1- 888-784- 6224); and (c) no active precipitation. Caregivers may choose to go outdoors when there is active precipitation if children have appropriate clothing such as rain boots and raincoats, or if they are under a covered area. Sanitation Rule 2832(d): If a daily air quality forecast is made by the Division of Air Quality or the regional air quality agency for the county where a center is located, outdoor activity for children shall be restricted as follows. On days with a code orange (unhealthy for sensitive groups) forecast, children shall not be outside participating in physical activity between noon and 8:00 p.m. for more than one hour. On days with a code red (unhealthy) forecast, children shall not be outside participating in physical activity between noon and 8:00 p.m. for more than 15 minutes. On days with a code purple (very unhealthy) forecast, children shall not be outside participating in physical activity between noon and 8:00 p.m. Provisions shall be made to allow children with diagnosed asthma or with coughing or wheezing symptoms to participate in physical activity indoors on days with a code orange, red or purple air quality forecast. As you can see each code within the rule does not prohibit outdoor play, rather, it provides information on when considerations and adjustments should be made to the outdoor play schedule. Partner Update: Starting in June 2026, the administration of the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood (MCCYN) Program will transition from Child Care Aware of America (CCAoA) to the MilitaryChildCare.com Fee Assistance Management (MCC FAM) team. Visit the DCDEE website (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/) for updated requirements, forms, and other pertinent information. Please feel free to contact me at yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov or (910) 305-2371 or Rhonda Blackmon, Licensing Supervisor at rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov (910) 709-4168 if you have any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: YOLANDA PRIDGEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0626-186L Visit Date: 6/24/2026 Number Present: 52 Completed Date: 6/24/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 420 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 04:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate an allegation regarding violations of child care requirements. The most recent Annual Compliance Visit was completed April 7, 2026, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 85%, as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Five (5) Star License issued November 2, 2024. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, five (5) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Staff benefits package and Infrastructure of parent involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct Vonda Leak. The owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of superior completed January 9, 2026. Fire Classification of approved for daytime care only completed May 20, 2026. A copy was received during today’s visit. There are allegations of violations of child care requirements including but not limited to: • Incident Reports • Sanitation V. Leak, new administrator, was present and accompanied me while observing the indoor and outdoor areas. Assistant director, Kendra Thompson, was present and assisted during the visit. In space #2, I observed two infants resting in their individual cribs while other infants played with soft toys, received tummy time on the floor, and explored the classroom area. I observed a teacher complete diapering and hand washing procedures with an infant. Preschool-aged children in all other spaces were engaged in free choice activities both indoors and outdoors. Indoors, children were engaged in playing with framed puzzles, sitting at child-sized tables playing with nesting toys, and making and flying paper airplanes. A group of children were observed in pretend play with community helpers in a playhouse. In the outdoor area, I observed children climbing stationary equipment, riding tricycles, and dumping and filling containers in the sand pit. Upon return indoors, staff assisted children with completing toilet training and hand washing routines. For lunch, the cook served turkey potpie, peas, carrots, and milk. Children were observed resting in individual cribs and cots as soft instrumental music played. A Staff Records and Training Worksheet was completed for five (5) new employees and staff files were monitored. The most current monthly fire drill and playground inspection were completed on May 28, 2026. The quarterly lockdown emergency drill was completed on June 12, 2026. A monthly playground inspection was conducted on June 4, 2026. The allegations regarding program records and adequate supervision were discussed with administrators including Debbi Jack, District Manager, was off-site, during the visit. I interviewed two (2) staff members including the administrators about incidents that occur within the facility regarding sanitation during diapering procedures, incident reports, and documenting program records. All staff interviewed stated that they were aware on the incident that occurred when a toddler tripped and fell in the outdoor area. Staff stated the one (1) year old child was walking on the playground when they tripped on the boarder surrounding the surfacing underneath stationary equipment. Both teachers stated they observed the child and did not see any issues visible. Following rest time, teachers stated they observed a small scratch on the child’s lower lip. One teacher stated an incident report was completed and shared with the child’s parent at the time of departure on the same day. Based on records reviewed, the incident was signed by the parent, the teacher who observed the incident, and an administrator on June 5, 2026. Diapering procedures were monitored in multiple classrooms. Based on staff interviews and documentation on file, teachers stated diaper changing and visible diaper checks occur every two hours or less. Administrators stated diaper changing is documented in the digital app however a diapering changing chart would be placed in each classroom to assist staff with additional documenting. During today’s visit, incident report forms and logs, documentation of diaper changing were monitored. Based on documentation monitored, observations, and information gathered from staff interviews, the allegation that sanitation requirements were not met was determined to be unsubstantiated. Based on documentation monitored, observations, and information gathered from staff interviews, the allegation that incident reports and logs were not shared with families nor maintained was determined to be unsubstantiated. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with administrators. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The facility's most current fire inspection was completed on May 20, 2026 and a copy of the report was not submitted within one week of the inspection visit. The violation was completed when a copy of the report was submitted during the visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The most current activity plan posted in space #3b was dated May 11, 2026. The violation was corrected when the teacher posted a current activity plan in the classroom. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Accessible to children in spaces #3a, staff members' personal purses were stored in an unlocked closet. In space #8, a staff member's purse was stored on top of open shelves which were not locked. The violation was corrected when staff removed their purses and placed them in a clocked cabinet in the classroom. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Accessible to children in space #3a, a box of plastic gloves were stored in the diaper changing area. The violation was corrected when the teacher moved the gloves and placed them in a cabinet five feet above the finished floor and in close proximity to the diapering area. .0604(q) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Four (4) staff members did not complete the required Emergency Information form on or before their first day of work. The violation was corrected when teacher completed the Emergency Information form during today's visit. .0701(a) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must were corrected immediately therefore a compliance letter is not required. Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: Fire Inspection: A violation was cited for the facility not submitting the annual fire inspection within one week of the inspection date. The most current fire inspection was conducted on May 20, 2026. As a reminder, the fire inspection must be completed on the form provided by DCDEE and submitted to the child care consultant within one week of the inspection. For more information, refer to NC Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a). Storage of Hazardous Items: The violation for storage of hazardous items was cited today. Properly storing hazardous materials is important because if in reach of children, may present a poison hazard if ingested, inhaled, or handled. I shared that additional information regarding the storage of medication can be found in Child Care Sanitation Rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b). A copy of the “Hazardous Items Storage for Child Care” resource may be obtained from our website. We also discussed the following strategies for achieving and maintaining compliance: review the resource with staff at your next staff meeting; remind staff to check behind the other; and periodically check classroom spaces throughout the day to ensure all hazardous items are locked. Choking Hazards: A violation was cited during today’s visit for items that were potential choking hazards accessible to children under three years of age. I recommended staff make all plastics and potential choking hazards inaccessible to children under three years of age. Additional information regarding plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart can be found in NC Child Care rule 10A NCAC .0604 (q). NCDHHS Responds to Increase in Measles Cases: Measles is on the rise globally and in North Carolina. As a highly contagious, airborne disease, even one case is a major priority for public health. NCDHHS is taking action by launching new outreach resources for child care providers, families, and community stakeholders to help curb the spread. Child care providers can share information about vaccinations with the families served and be informed with the most current information. For more information and to access tools and resources, visit NCDHHS at dph.ncdhhs.gov/measles. Challenging Behaviors: Do you have children who bite? Do children struggle to focus during circle time? Do challenging behaviors cause difficult transitions? Do you spend all day managing behavior? Are you at your wits' end? Help is available for these and other behavior challenges! The Challenging Behaviors Hotline has opened and is provided for Free. You may speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to challenging behaviors in your facility. Dial 1-888-600-1685 Option 1 or for more information go to www.childcareresourcesinc.org/challenging-behaviors-helpline. Outdoor Play: Every child must have an opportunity to be outdoors daily; if weather conditions permit. This requirement is for all ages including infants and toddlers. Due to extreme heat indices, it is important to remind parents about the requirement to go outdoors daily and that each child must come to school prepared to go outdoors. This includes bringing the appropriate clothes to child care and ensuring each child is able to participate in daily activities. Parents should determine whether their child is too sick to attend child care if they are unable to participate in the daily activities. The Weather watch chart must be used to determine “weather permitting”, and a thermometer may be posted outside a window, so staff can determine accurate temperatures. Ensure staff are trained in reading your posted Weather watch chart; you can also use the chart to help educate parents about when outdoor play should take place. For additional guidance, you may refer to the following requirements: Child Care Rule .0102 (27) "If weather conditions permit" means: (a) temperatures that fall within the guidelines developed by the Iowa Department of Public Health and specified on the Child Care Weather Watch chart. These guidelines shall be used when determining appropriate weather conditions for taking children outside for outdoor learning activities and playtime. This chart may be downloaded free of charge from https://hhs.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/portals/1/userfiles/128/child%20care%20weather%20watch%20june%202020%20final.pdf; and is incorporated by reference and includes subsequent editions and amendments; (b) following the air quality standards as set out in 15A NCAC 18A .2832(d). The Air Quality Color Guide can be found on the Division's web site at https://airquality.climate.ncsu.edu/air-guide/aq-datasets/ or call 1-888-RU4NCAIR (1- 888-784- 6224); and (c) no active precipitation. Caregivers may choose to go outdoors when there is active precipitation if children have appropriate clothing such as rain boots and raincoats, or if they are under a covered area. Sanitation Rule 2832(d): If a daily air quality forecast is made by the Division of Air Quality or the regional air quality agency for the county where a center is located, outdoor activity for children shall be restricted as follows. On days with a code orange (unhealthy for sensitive groups) forecast, children shall not be outside participating in physical activity between noon and 8:00 p.m. for more than one hour. On days with a code red (unhealthy) forecast, children shall not be outside participating in physical activity between noon and 8:00 p.m. for more than 15 minutes. On days with a code purple (very unhealthy) forecast, children shall not be outside participating in physical activity between noon and 8:00 p.m. Provisions shall be made to allow children with diagnosed asthma or with coughing or wheezing symptoms to participate in physical activity indoors on days with a code orange, red or purple air quality forecast. As you can see each code within the rule does not prohibit outdoor play, rather, it provides information on when considerations and adjustments should be made to the outdoor play schedule. Partner Update: Starting in June 2026, the administration of the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood (MCCYN) Program will transition from Child Care Aware of America (CCAoA) to the MilitaryChildCare.com Fee Assistance Management (MCC FAM) team. Visit the DCDEE website (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/) for updated requirements, forms, and other pertinent information. Please feel free to contact me at yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov or (910) 305-2371 or Rhonda Blackmon, Licensing Supervisor at rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov (910) 709-4168 if you have any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0802 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: YOLANDA PRIDGEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0526-121L Visit Date: 5/13/2026 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 5/13/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 455 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 05:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate an allegation regarding violations of child care requirements. The most recent Annual Compliance Visit was completed April 7, 2026, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 85%, as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Five (5) Star License issued November 2, 2024. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, five (5) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Staff benefits package and Infrastructure of parent involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Saerica Hamilton. Nikita Malone, administrator, began duties on April 28, 2026. The owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of superior completed January 9, 2026. Fire Classification of approved for daytime care only completed June 23, 2025. There are allegations of violations of child care requirements including but not limited to: • Supervision • Program Records N. Malone, administrator, was present and accompanied me while observing the indoor and outdoor areas. Saerica Hamilton, assisting administrator from the adjacent licensed facility, arrived and assisted with today’s visit. Assistant director, Kendra Thompson, was present. In space #2, I observed two infants resting in their individual cribs while other infants played with soft toys, received tummy time on the floor, and explored the classroom area. Preschool-aged children in all other spaces were engaged in free choice activities both indoors and outdoors. I observed children climbing stationary equipment, tossing balls back and forth, rocking on toy rockers, riding tricycles, and playing with toy vehicles in the sand pit. Upon return indoors, staff assisted children with completing diapering, toilet training, and hand washing routines. For lunch, the cook served turkey and cheese roll-up on wheat tortilla, fresh coleslaw, diced mixed fruit, and milk. Children were observed resting on individual cots as soft instrumental music played. Teachers monitored children as they rested. During today’s visit, Debbi Jack, District Manager, and Heather Russell, a corporation representative, were present and providing training and support to staff members. A staff and training worksheet was completed for two new employees and staff files were monitored. The most current monthly fire drill and playground inspection were completed on April 30, 2026. The quarterly shelter-in-place emergency drill was completed on March 3, 2026. The allegations regarding program records and adequate supervision were discussed with administrators. I interviewed seven (7) staff members including the administrators about incidents that occur within the facility. All staff interviewed stated that they were aware on the incident that occurred when 2 four year old children collided when running in the outdoor area at 10:54am on May 1, 2026. Based on staff interviews, it was determined that two teachers were standing on opposite sides on the climbing structure assisting other children when the two children collided and one of the children fell, hitting his face on the steps of the composite climbing structure. One teacher stated she was standing feet away from the child, heard them crying, and assessed the situation. The teacher stated that the children confirmed that when the two bumped into each other, one of them fell and hit their head on the steps. The teacher stated the child was taken indoors where S. Hamilton administered first aid and contacted the child’s parents. S. Hamilton stated following the phone conversation with one of the child’s parents, a photo of the child’s injury was sent to the parents via email at 11:24am. Staff stated the child calmed down, returned to the classroom, ate lunch, and fell asleep on their cot. Based on attendance and daily sign out records, the child’s parent signed them out digitally at 3:40pm. However, administrators and staff stated the parent arrived to pick the child up when the classroom teacher returned from lunch at 2:00pm. The incident report was received via email on May 6, 2026. The email stated the child’s parents notified them of disenrolling their children however, their last day of attendance was May 1, 2026. During today’s visit, attendance records, incident report logs, staff time sheets, daily sign/in out records, and the facility’s Emergency Medical Care Plan were monitored. Based on documentation monitored, observations, and information gathered from staff interviews, the allegation that children were not adequately supervised was determined to be unsubstantiated. Based on documentation monitored, observations, and information gathered from staff interviews, the allegation that program records were not maintained was determined to be substantiated. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with administrators. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. An incident report completed May 1, 2026 did not contain required information as outlined in NC Child Care Rule. Additional incident reports on file completed January 2026 to May 2026 did not contain required information as outlined in NC Child Care Rule. .0802 (e) 1911 An incident report was not completed and mailed to a Division representative within seven days after the incident when medical treatment was required. An incident report was not received within seven days after an incident that occurred on January 12, 2026 following the child receiving medical treatment on January 15, 2026. The violation was corrected during the visit when the administrators provided a copy of the incident report. .0802(f) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on May 27, 2026, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Yolanda Pridgen Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 25561 Fayetteville, NC 28314 yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: Incident Reports: A violation was cited for incident report not being properly and missing required information. Staff should ensure that an incident report is completed every time a child is injured while in care, using the required Division form. The report must include all key details such as the child’s information, date and time of the incident, witnesses, parent notification, any equipment involved, the cause and type of injury, First Aid provided, and steps taken to prevent the incident from happening again. Be sure to sign the report, obtain the parent’s signature, provide a copy to the parent, and file it promptly in the child’s record. When medical treatment is required, mail a copy to the Division within seven days. Additionally, complete the incident log each time an incident report is written to ensure accurate documentation and compliance. More information can be found in NC Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802. Equipment and Furnishings: A discussion regarding equipment and furnishings beginning to show wear and tear in the outdoor play area was had with administrators. We discussed the composite climbing structure on the playground used by preschool children. The administrators stated the equipment had been repaired a number of times. The equipment is showing wear and tear with the rubber mats on the platforms and steps leading to the structure. The rubber mats on the platform is beginning to lift due to weather exposure. Equipment and materials that are hazard free and in good repair are required for children. We discussed options for updating the equipment including: power washing the composite structure, painting it and sealing with clear coat to extend the life of the equipment; replacing worn rubber mats, and sanding any areas of potential rust. Additional information regarding outdoor materials and equipment is in Child Care Rule .0601 for Safe Environment. A violation was cited during a visit during the annual compliance visit on April 7, 2026. The repairs were made on May 7, 2026 and photos of the repairs were received via email on May 8, 2026 in addition to a compliance letter. During today's visit, areas of peeling paint was observed in the areas that was repaired on May 7, 2026. Also, refer to child care rule15A NCAC 18A .2821(a) regarding paint peeling on the wall. Walls shall be clean and in good repair. Administrators stated that a proposal to paint the entire interior of the facility would be submitted to upper management. Visit the DCDEE website (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/) for updated requirements, forms, and other pertinent information. Please feel free to contact me at yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov or (910) 305-2371 or Rhonda Blackmon, Licensing Supervisor at rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov (910) 709-4168 if you have any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: YOLANDA PRIDGEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0526-121L Visit Date: 5/13/2026 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 5/13/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 455 Time In: 09:40 AM Time Out: 05:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate an allegation regarding violations of child care requirements. The most recent Annual Compliance Visit was completed April 7, 2026, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 85%, as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Five (5) Star License issued November 2, 2024. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, five (5) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Staff benefits package and Infrastructure of parent involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Saerica Hamilton. Nikita Malone, administrator, began duties on April 28, 2026. The owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of superior completed January 9, 2026. Fire Classification of approved for daytime care only completed June 23, 2025. There are allegations of violations of child care requirements including but not limited to: • Supervision • Program Records N. Malone, administrator, was present and accompanied me while observing the indoor and outdoor areas. Saerica Hamilton, assisting administrator from the adjacent licensed facility, arrived and assisted with today’s visit. Assistant director, Kendra Thompson, was present. In space #2, I observed two infants resting in their individual cribs while other infants played with soft toys, received tummy time on the floor, and explored the classroom area. Preschool-aged children in all other spaces were engaged in free choice activities both indoors and outdoors. I observed children climbing stationary equipment, tossing balls back and forth, rocking on toy rockers, riding tricycles, and playing with toy vehicles in the sand pit. Upon return indoors, staff assisted children with completing diapering, toilet training, and hand washing routines. For lunch, the cook served turkey and cheese roll-up on wheat tortilla, fresh coleslaw, diced mixed fruit, and milk. Children were observed resting on individual cots as soft instrumental music played. Teachers monitored children as they rested. During today’s visit, Debbi Jack, District Manager, and Heather Russell, a corporation representative, were present and providing training and support to staff members. A staff and training worksheet was completed for two new employees and staff files were monitored. The most current monthly fire drill and playground inspection were completed on April 30, 2026. The quarterly shelter-in-place emergency drill was completed on March 3, 2026. The allegations regarding program records and adequate supervision were discussed with administrators. I interviewed seven (7) staff members including the administrators about incidents that occur within the facility. All staff interviewed stated that they were aware on the incident that occurred when 2 four year old children collided when running in the outdoor area at 10:54am on May 1, 2026. Based on staff interviews, it was determined that two teachers were standing on opposite sides on the climbing structure assisting other children when the two children collided and one of the children fell, hitting his face on the steps of the composite climbing structure. One teacher stated she was standing feet away from the child, heard them crying, and assessed the situation. The teacher stated that the children confirmed that when the two bumped into each other, one of them fell and hit their head on the steps. The teacher stated the child was taken indoors where S. Hamilton administered first aid and contacted the child’s parents. S. Hamilton stated following the phone conversation with one of the child’s parents, a photo of the child’s injury was sent to the parents via email at 11:24am. Staff stated the child calmed down, returned to the classroom, ate lunch, and fell asleep on their cot. Based on attendance and daily sign out records, the child’s parent signed them out digitally at 3:40pm. However, administrators and staff stated the parent arrived to pick the child up when the classroom teacher returned from lunch at 2:00pm. The incident report was received via email on May 6, 2026. The email stated the child’s parents notified them of disenrolling their children however, their last day of attendance was May 1, 2026. During today’s visit, attendance records, incident report logs, staff time sheets, daily sign/in out records, and the facility’s Emergency Medical Care Plan were monitored. Based on documentation monitored, observations, and information gathered from staff interviews, the allegation that children were not adequately supervised was determined to be unsubstantiated. Based on documentation monitored, observations, and information gathered from staff interviews, the allegation that program records were not maintained was determined to be substantiated. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with administrators. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. An incident report completed May 1, 2026 did not contain required information as outlined in NC Child Care Rule. Additional incident reports on file completed January 2026 to May 2026 did not contain required information as outlined in NC Child Care Rule. .0802 (e) 1911 An incident report was not completed and mailed to a Division representative within seven days after the incident when medical treatment was required. An incident report was not received within seven days after an incident that occurred on January 12, 2026 following the child receiving medical treatment on January 15, 2026. The violation was corrected during the visit when the administrators provided a copy of the incident report. .0802(f) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on May 27, 2026, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Yolanda Pridgen Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 25561 Fayetteville, NC 28314 yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: Incident Reports: A violation was cited for incident report not being properly and missing required information. Staff should ensure that an incident report is completed every time a child is injured while in care, using the required Division form. The report must include all key details such as the child’s information, date and time of the incident, witnesses, parent notification, any equipment involved, the cause and type of injury, First Aid provided, and steps taken to prevent the incident from happening again. Be sure to sign the report, obtain the parent’s signature, provide a copy to the parent, and file it promptly in the child’s record. When medical treatment is required, mail a copy to the Division within seven days. Additionally, complete the incident log each time an incident report is written to ensure accurate documentation and compliance. More information can be found in NC Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0802. Equipment and Furnishings: A discussion regarding equipment and furnishings beginning to show wear and tear in the outdoor play area was had with administrators. We discussed the composite climbing structure on the playground used by preschool children. The administrators stated the equipment had been repaired a number of times. The equipment is showing wear and tear with the rubber mats on the platforms and steps leading to the structure. The rubber mats on the platform is beginning to lift due to weather exposure. Equipment and materials that are hazard free and in good repair are required for children. We discussed options for updating the equipment including: power washing the composite structure, painting it and sealing with clear coat to extend the life of the equipment; replacing worn rubber mats, and sanding any areas of potential rust. Additional information regarding outdoor materials and equipment is in Child Care Rule .0601 for Safe Environment. A violation was cited during a visit during the annual compliance visit on April 7, 2026. The repairs were made on May 7, 2026 and photos of the repairs were received via email on May 8, 2026 in addition to a compliance letter. During today's visit, areas of peeling paint was observed in the areas that was repaired on May 7, 2026. Also, refer to child care rule15A NCAC 18A .2821(a) regarding paint peeling on the wall. Walls shall be clean and in good repair. Administrators stated that a proposal to paint the entire interior of the facility would be submitted to upper management. Visit the DCDEE website (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/) for updated requirements, forms, and other pertinent information. Please feel free to contact me at yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov or (910) 305-2371 or Rhonda Blackmon, Licensing Supervisor at rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov (910) 709-4168 if you have any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: YOLANDA PRIDGEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/7/2026 Number Present: 62 Completed Date: 4/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 04:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to an Annual Compliance Visit including health and safety training requirements. The most recent Annual Compliance Visit was completed April 15, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 89%, as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Five (5) Star License issued November 2, 2024. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, five (5) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Staff benefits package and Infrastructure of parent involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified by Saerica Hamilton. The previous administrator, Brenicia McNeill, last day as administrator was March 13, 2026. The owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of superior completed January 9, 2026. Fire Classification of approved for daytime care only completed June 23, 2025. Brandi Church, assistant director, was present and accompanied me while observing the indoor and outdoor areas. Acting Administrator, S. Hamilton, arrived from the adjacent licensed facility and assisted with the visit. In spaces #1 and #2, I observed staff members sitting on the floor, playing with infants during tummy time and manipulating soft toys and rattles. Children were exploring the classroom area and pulling up on child sized furnishings. One teacher held and comforted an infant while one infant rested in their individual crib. Preschool-aged children in all other spaces were engaged in free choice activities both indoors and outdoors. Children manipulated Dublos blocks, colored pages with crayons, and played with nuts, links and gears. In the cozy area, a small group of children read books while other children built towers with unit blocks, toy vehicles, and cooked pretend meals in dramatic play. In the outdoor area, children pushed and pulled wheeled toys and climbed on stationary equipment. I observed staff completing diapering routines and assisting children with toileting when needed. Hand washing and other personal care routines were completed and monitored. For lunch, the cook served ravioli with meat sauce, mixed vegetables, applesauce, corn muffin and milk. Children were observed resting on individual cots as soft instrumental music played. A checklist was used to note requirements monitored during today’s visit. A Staff and Training Worksheet was received and updated during the visit. Five (5) employee files were monitored for new and existing staff. A Children’s Record form was completed and nine (9) files were monitored. The most current monthly fire drill was conducted on March 20, 2026 and a quarterly shelter-in-place emergency drill was completed March 5, 2026. A monthly playground inspection was conducted on March 11, 2026. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with S. Hamilton and B. Church. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Classroom walls and interior doors throughout the building had chipping and peeling paint. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Accessible to children in space #2, a staff member's purse was stored in a cabinet underneath the hand washing sink. In space #7, an aerosol can of Febreze room spray was stored in an unlocked cabinet. The violations were corrected when staff removed items and placed them in lock cabinets. .2820(b) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. Medication on file for one child was not stored in the original container or accompanied by signed, dated, written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. .0803(2)(a) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. A bottle of Zytec syrup prescribed for one child expired March 2026. A bin of diaper creams and ointments of children who are not longer enrolled were not discarded within 72 hours of completion or withdrawal of authorization. .0803(12) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. Accessible to children in the outdoor play area, broken hallow stacking blocks exposing jagged edges, broken easel and child-sized table, classroom rugs, and a broken umbrella were not removed and discarded. The violation was corrected when staff removed the items from the outdoor area and placed them in the dumpster area. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Accessible to children in space #3a and #3b, plastic bags containing children clothes were stored in cubbies and plastic bags of diapers were stored in a cabinet underneath the hand washing sink. The violation was corrected when staff removed the items from the plastic bags. .0604(q) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. A medical report for two (2) employees were not on file prior to employment. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. Documentation of an up-to-date TB test or screening was not on file for one staff member hired March 17, 2026. .0701(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Verification of completion of First Aid training was not on file for one staff member hired February 10, 2025. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Verification of completion of CPR training was not on file for one staff member hired February 10, 2025. .1102(d) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. All staff required to receive on-going training did not complete the required number of hours according to their education and experience. .1103(a) 1790 A statement acknowledging the parental decision to opt out of the supplemental food provided by the center was not signed by the parent and/or maintained on file at the center. A Nutrition Opt Out form was not on file for one child who's family provides all meals consumed while present at the facility. .0901(d) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The EPR Plan and Ready to Go File completed January 15, 2025 did not contain up-to-date information for the facility. .0607(d)(10) 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. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on April 21, 2026, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Yolanda Pridgen Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 25561 Fayetteville, NC 28314 yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: EPR/Ready to Go File: A violation was cited for the Ready to Go File during today’s visit. All licensed ECE programs are required to have a Ready to Go File to ensure that all necessary information is available during an emergency. I provided a copy of the Ready to Go File Facility Checklist to you which can also be found on the DCDEE website underneath Provider Documents. You may find more information regarding EPR Plan and Ready to Go File in the NC Child Care Rules .0607(d)(10) On-going Training: A violation was cited for staff members not completing the number of required on-going training hours annually. We discussed a variety agencies to obtain on-going training hours. The operator stated they would prefer to attend virtual trainings. I recommended staff members visit the Partnership for Children of Cumberland County at www.ccpfc.org for an updated training calendar along with Southwestern Childcare Commission at https://www.swcdcinc.org/, NC Rated License Assessment Project at https://ncrlap.org/, and Positive Childhood Alliance of NC at https://preventchildabusenc.org/online-trainings/ for more information. Medical Report: A violation for a staff member’s medical statement/report not being on file was cited during today’s visit. As a reminder, the medical statement/report shall be completed prior to the first day of work. Refer to child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a). We discussed adding a reminder on your calendar and also refer to the Staff File Checklist to ensure all documents have been included in staff files. Choking Hazards: A violation was cited during today’s visit for items that were potential choking hazards accessible to children under three years of age. I recommended administrators have staff remove all materials accessible to children that could be a choking hazard in all spaces used for children under three years old. Additional information regarding plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart can be found in NC Child Care rule 10A NCAC .0604(q). Storage of Hazardous Items: The violation for storage of hazardous items was cited today. Properly storing hazardous materials is important because if in reach of children, may present a poison hazard if ingested, inhaled, or handled. I shared that additional information regarding the storage of medication can be found in Child Care Sanitation Rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b). A copy of the “Hazardous Items Storage for Child Care” resource may be obtained from our website. We also discussed the following strategies for achieving and maintaining compliance: review the resources with staff at your next staff meeting; remind staff to check behind the other; and periodically check classroom spaces throughout the day to ensure all hazardous items are locked. CPR/First Aid Trainings: Violations regarding CPR and First Aid was observed and documented today. Record keeping is one of the most time-consuming tasks associated with administration. It is an important part of licensure. Staff records consist of various documentation such as employment application, medical report, TB test results, Annual Health questionnaire, Emergency contact information, CRC qualification letter, documentation of orientation, in service training hours, CPR and First Aid, and playground safety. I also suggested the administrator use Be a Smart Consumer of Child Care Training and Be a Smart Consumer of CPR and First Aid Training. Both documents can be found on the DCDEE Website underneath the provider and professional development tabs. Please submit certificates of completion along with the compliance letter. DCDEE WORKS:I reminded the administrator to assist staff members with enrolling and/or updating information in the DCDEE WORKS system using their individual NCIDs. Staff members will need to create a DCDEE WORKS account, upload required certificates, and submit their updated educational transcripts by mail or electronically. The portal is available online and may be accessed via the following link: https://dcdee.works.nc.gov/. Challenging Behaviors: Do you have children who bite? Do children struggle to focus during circle time? Do challenging behaviors cause difficult transitions? Do you spend all day managing behavior? Are you at your wits' end? Help is available for these and other behavior challenges! The Challenging Behaviors Hotline has opened and is provided for Free. You may speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to challenging behaviors in your facility. Dial 1-888-600-1685 Option 1 or for more information go to www.childcareresourcesinc.org/challenging-behaviors-helpline. NCDHHS Responds to Increase in Measles Cases: Measles is on the rise globally and in North Carolina. As a highly contagious, airborne disease, even one case is a major priority for public health. NCDHHS is taking action by launching new outreach resources for child care providers, families, and community stakeholders to help curb the spread. Child care providers can share information about vaccinations with the families served and be informed with the most current information. For more information and to access tools and resources, visit NCDHHS at dph.ncdhhs.gov/measles. Visit the DCDEE website (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/) for updated requirements, forms, and other pertinent information. Please feel free to contact me at yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov or (910) 305-2371 or Rhonda Blackmon, Licensing Supervisor at rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov (910) 709-4168 if you have any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: YOLANDA PRIDGEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/7/2026 Number Present: 62 Completed Date: 4/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 04:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to an Annual Compliance Visit including health and safety training requirements. The most recent Annual Compliance Visit was completed April 15, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 89%, as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Five (5) Star License issued November 2, 2024. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, five (5) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Staff benefits package and Infrastructure of parent involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified by Saerica Hamilton. The previous administrator, Brenicia McNeill, last day as administrator was March 13, 2026. The owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of superior completed January 9, 2026. Fire Classification of approved for daytime care only completed June 23, 2025. Brandi Church, assistant director, was present and accompanied me while observing the indoor and outdoor areas. Acting Administrator, S. Hamilton, arrived from the adjacent licensed facility and assisted with the visit. In spaces #1 and #2, I observed staff members sitting on the floor, playing with infants during tummy time and manipulating soft toys and rattles. Children were exploring the classroom area and pulling up on child sized furnishings. One teacher held and comforted an infant while one infant rested in their individual crib. Preschool-aged children in all other spaces were engaged in free choice activities both indoors and outdoors. Children manipulated Dublos blocks, colored pages with crayons, and played with nuts, links and gears. In the cozy area, a small group of children read books while other children built towers with unit blocks, toy vehicles, and cooked pretend meals in dramatic play. In the outdoor area, children pushed and pulled wheeled toys and climbed on stationary equipment. I observed staff completing diapering routines and assisting children with toileting when needed. Hand washing and other personal care routines were completed and monitored. For lunch, the cook served ravioli with meat sauce, mixed vegetables, applesauce, corn muffin and milk. Children were observed resting on individual cots as soft instrumental music played. A checklist was used to note requirements monitored during today’s visit. A Staff and Training Worksheet was received and updated during the visit. Five (5) employee files were monitored for new and existing staff. A Children’s Record form was completed and nine (9) files were monitored. The most current monthly fire drill was conducted on March 20, 2026 and a quarterly shelter-in-place emergency drill was completed March 5, 2026. A monthly playground inspection was conducted on March 11, 2026. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with S. Hamilton and B. Church. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Classroom walls and interior doors throughout the building had chipping and peeling paint. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Accessible to children in space #2, a staff member's purse was stored in a cabinet underneath the hand washing sink. In space #7, an aerosol can of Febreze room spray was stored in an unlocked cabinet. The violations were corrected when staff removed items and placed them in lock cabinets. .2820(b) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. Medication on file for one child was not stored in the original container or accompanied by signed, dated, written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. .0803(2)(a) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. A bottle of Zytec syrup prescribed for one child expired March 2026. A bin of diaper creams and ointments of children who are not longer enrolled were not discarded within 72 hours of completion or withdrawal of authorization. .0803(12) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. Accessible to children in the outdoor play area, broken hallow stacking blocks exposing jagged edges, broken easel and child-sized table, classroom rugs, and a broken umbrella were not removed and discarded. The violation was corrected when staff removed the items from the outdoor area and placed them in the dumpster area. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Accessible to children in space #3a and #3b, plastic bags containing children clothes were stored in cubbies and plastic bags of diapers were stored in a cabinet underneath the hand washing sink. The violation was corrected when staff removed the items from the plastic bags. .0604(q) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. A medical report for two (2) employees were not on file prior to employment. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. Documentation of an up-to-date TB test or screening was not on file for one staff member hired March 17, 2026. .0701(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Verification of completion of First Aid training was not on file for one staff member hired February 10, 2025. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Verification of completion of CPR training was not on file for one staff member hired February 10, 2025. .1102(d) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. All staff required to receive on-going training did not complete the required number of hours according to their education and experience. .1103(a) 1790 A statement acknowledging the parental decision to opt out of the supplemental food provided by the center was not signed by the parent and/or maintained on file at the center. A Nutrition Opt Out form was not on file for one child who's family provides all meals consumed while present at the facility. .0901(d) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The EPR Plan and Ready to Go File completed January 15, 2025 did not contain up-to-date information for the facility. .0607(d)(10) 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. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on April 21, 2026, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Yolanda Pridgen Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 25561 Fayetteville, NC 28314 yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: EPR/Ready to Go File: A violation was cited for the Ready to Go File during today’s visit. All licensed ECE programs are required to have a Ready to Go File to ensure that all necessary information is available during an emergency. I provided a copy of the Ready to Go File Facility Checklist to you which can also be found on the DCDEE website underneath Provider Documents. You may find more information regarding EPR Plan and Ready to Go File in the NC Child Care Rules .0607(d)(10) On-going Training: A violation was cited for staff members not completing the number of required on-going training hours annually. We discussed a variety agencies to obtain on-going training hours. The operator stated they would prefer to attend virtual trainings. I recommended staff members visit the Partnership for Children of Cumberland County at www.ccpfc.org for an updated training calendar along with Southwestern Childcare Commission at https://www.swcdcinc.org/, NC Rated License Assessment Project at https://ncrlap.org/, and Positive Childhood Alliance of NC at https://preventchildabusenc.org/online-trainings/ for more information. Medical Report: A violation for a staff member’s medical statement/report not being on file was cited during today’s visit. As a reminder, the medical statement/report shall be completed prior to the first day of work. Refer to child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a). We discussed adding a reminder on your calendar and also refer to the Staff File Checklist to ensure all documents have been included in staff files. Choking Hazards: A violation was cited during today’s visit for items that were potential choking hazards accessible to children under three years of age. I recommended administrators have staff remove all materials accessible to children that could be a choking hazard in all spaces used for children under three years old. Additional information regarding plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart can be found in NC Child Care rule 10A NCAC .0604(q). Storage of Hazardous Items: The violation for storage of hazardous items was cited today. Properly storing hazardous materials is important because if in reach of children, may present a poison hazard if ingested, inhaled, or handled. I shared that additional information regarding the storage of medication can be found in Child Care Sanitation Rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b). A copy of the “Hazardous Items Storage for Child Care” resource may be obtained from our website. We also discussed the following strategies for achieving and maintaining compliance: review the resources with staff at your next staff meeting; remind staff to check behind the other; and periodically check classroom spaces throughout the day to ensure all hazardous items are locked. CPR/First Aid Trainings: Violations regarding CPR and First Aid was observed and documented today. Record keeping is one of the most time-consuming tasks associated with administration. It is an important part of licensure. Staff records consist of various documentation such as employment application, medical report, TB test results, Annual Health questionnaire, Emergency contact information, CRC qualification letter, documentation of orientation, in service training hours, CPR and First Aid, and playground safety. I also suggested the administrator use Be a Smart Consumer of Child Care Training and Be a Smart Consumer of CPR and First Aid Training. Both documents can be found on the DCDEE Website underneath the provider and professional development tabs. Please submit certificates of completion along with the compliance letter. DCDEE WORKS:I reminded the administrator to assist staff members with enrolling and/or updating information in the DCDEE WORKS system using their individual NCIDs. Staff members will need to create a DCDEE WORKS account, upload required certificates, and submit their updated educational transcripts by mail or electronically. The portal is available online and may be accessed via the following link: https://dcdee.works.nc.gov/. Challenging Behaviors: Do you have children who bite? Do children struggle to focus during circle time? Do challenging behaviors cause difficult transitions? Do you spend all day managing behavior? Are you at your wits' end? Help is available for these and other behavior challenges! The Challenging Behaviors Hotline has opened and is provided for Free. You may speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to challenging behaviors in your facility. Dial 1-888-600-1685 Option 1 or for more information go to www.childcareresourcesinc.org/challenging-behaviors-helpline. NCDHHS Responds to Increase in Measles Cases: Measles is on the rise globally and in North Carolina. As a highly contagious, airborne disease, even one case is a major priority for public health. NCDHHS is taking action by launching new outreach resources for child care providers, families, and community stakeholders to help curb the spread. Child care providers can share information about vaccinations with the families served and be informed with the most current information. For more information and to access tools and resources, visit NCDHHS at dph.ncdhhs.gov/measles. Visit the DCDEE website (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/) for updated requirements, forms, and other pertinent information. Please feel free to contact me at yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov or (910) 305-2371 or Rhonda Blackmon, Licensing Supervisor at rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov (910) 709-4168 if you have any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: YOLANDA PRIDGEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/7/2026 Number Present: 62 Completed Date: 4/7/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 450 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 04:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to an Annual Compliance Visit including health and safety training requirements. The most recent Annual Compliance Visit was completed April 15, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 89%, as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Five (5) Star License issued November 2, 2024. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, five (5) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Staff benefits package and Infrastructure of parent involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified by Saerica Hamilton. The previous administrator, Brenicia McNeill, last day as administrator was March 13, 2026. The owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of superior completed January 9, 2026. Fire Classification of approved for daytime care only completed June 23, 2025. Brandi Church, assistant director, was present and accompanied me while observing the indoor and outdoor areas. Acting Administrator, S. Hamilton, arrived from the adjacent licensed facility and assisted with the visit. In spaces #1 and #2, I observed staff members sitting on the floor, playing with infants during tummy time and manipulating soft toys and rattles. Children were exploring the classroom area and pulling up on child sized furnishings. One teacher held and comforted an infant while one infant rested in their individual crib. Preschool-aged children in all other spaces were engaged in free choice activities both indoors and outdoors. Children manipulated Dublos blocks, colored pages with crayons, and played with nuts, links and gears. In the cozy area, a small group of children read books while other children built towers with unit blocks, toy vehicles, and cooked pretend meals in dramatic play. In the outdoor area, children pushed and pulled wheeled toys and climbed on stationary equipment. I observed staff completing diapering routines and assisting children with toileting when needed. Hand washing and other personal care routines were completed and monitored. For lunch, the cook served ravioli with meat sauce, mixed vegetables, applesauce, corn muffin and milk. Children were observed resting on individual cots as soft instrumental music played. A checklist was used to note requirements monitored during today’s visit. A Staff and Training Worksheet was received and updated during the visit. Five (5) employee files were monitored for new and existing staff. A Children’s Record form was completed and nine (9) files were monitored. The most current monthly fire drill was conducted on March 20, 2026 and a quarterly shelter-in-place emergency drill was completed March 5, 2026. A monthly playground inspection was conducted on March 11, 2026. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with S. Hamilton and B. Church. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. Classroom walls and interior doors throughout the building had chipping and peeling paint. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Accessible to children in space #2, a staff member's purse was stored in a cabinet underneath the hand washing sink. In space #7, an aerosol can of Febreze room spray was stored in an unlocked cabinet. The violations were corrected when staff removed items and placed them in lock cabinets. .2820(b) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. Medication on file for one child was not stored in the original container or accompanied by signed, dated, written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional. .0803(2)(a) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. A bottle of Zytec syrup prescribed for one child expired March 2026. A bin of diaper creams and ointments of children who are not longer enrolled were not discarded within 72 hours of completion or withdrawal of authorization. .0803(12) 856 The indoor and/or outdoor premises was not checked once a day, prior to initial use, ensuring debris, and broken equipment was removed and disposed of. Accessible to children in the outdoor play area, broken hallow stacking blocks exposing jagged edges, broken easel and child-sized table, classroom rugs, and a broken umbrella were not removed and discarded. The violation was corrected when staff removed the items from the outdoor area and placed them in the dumpster area. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(p) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Accessible to children in space #3a and #3b, plastic bags containing children clothes were stored in cubbies and plastic bags of diapers were stored in a cabinet underneath the hand washing sink. The violation was corrected when staff removed the items from the plastic bags. .0604(q) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. A medical report for two (2) employees were not on file prior to employment. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. Documentation of an up-to-date TB test or screening was not on file for one staff member hired March 17, 2026. .0701(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Verification of completion of First Aid training was not on file for one staff member hired February 10, 2025. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Verification of completion of CPR training was not on file for one staff member hired February 10, 2025. .1102(d) 1052 Staff required to receive on-going training had not completed the required number of hours according to their education and experience. All staff required to receive on-going training did not complete the required number of hours according to their education and experience. .1103(a) 1790 A statement acknowledging the parental decision to opt out of the supplemental food provided by the center was not signed by the parent and/or maintained on file at the center. A Nutrition Opt Out form was not on file for one child who's family provides all meals consumed while present at the facility. .0901(d) 1823 The EPR Plan did not include the location of the Ready to Go File and or the required information. The EPR Plan and Ready to Go File completed January 15, 2025 did not contain up-to-date information for the facility. .0607(d)(10) 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. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on April 21, 2026, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Yolanda Pridgen Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 25561 Fayetteville, NC 28314 yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: EPR/Ready to Go File: A violation was cited for the Ready to Go File during today’s visit. All licensed ECE programs are required to have a Ready to Go File to ensure that all necessary information is available during an emergency. I provided a copy of the Ready to Go File Facility Checklist to you which can also be found on the DCDEE website underneath Provider Documents. You may find more information regarding EPR Plan and Ready to Go File in the NC Child Care Rules .0607(d)(10) On-going Training: A violation was cited for staff members not completing the number of required on-going training hours annually. We discussed a variety agencies to obtain on-going training hours. The operator stated they would prefer to attend virtual trainings. I recommended staff members visit the Partnership for Children of Cumberland County at www.ccpfc.org for an updated training calendar along with Southwestern Childcare Commission at https://www.swcdcinc.org/, NC Rated License Assessment Project at https://ncrlap.org/, and Positive Childhood Alliance of NC at https://preventchildabusenc.org/online-trainings/ for more information. Medical Report: A violation for a staff member’s medical statement/report not being on file was cited during today’s visit. As a reminder, the medical statement/report shall be completed prior to the first day of work. Refer to child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a). We discussed adding a reminder on your calendar and also refer to the Staff File Checklist to ensure all documents have been included in staff files. Choking Hazards: A violation was cited during today’s visit for items that were potential choking hazards accessible to children under three years of age. I recommended administrators have staff remove all materials accessible to children that could be a choking hazard in all spaces used for children under three years old. Additional information regarding plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart can be found in NC Child Care rule 10A NCAC .0604(q). Storage of Hazardous Items: The violation for storage of hazardous items was cited today. Properly storing hazardous materials is important because if in reach of children, may present a poison hazard if ingested, inhaled, or handled. I shared that additional information regarding the storage of medication can be found in Child Care Sanitation Rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b). A copy of the “Hazardous Items Storage for Child Care” resource may be obtained from our website. We also discussed the following strategies for achieving and maintaining compliance: review the resources with staff at your next staff meeting; remind staff to check behind the other; and periodically check classroom spaces throughout the day to ensure all hazardous items are locked. CPR/First Aid Trainings: Violations regarding CPR and First Aid was observed and documented today. Record keeping is one of the most time-consuming tasks associated with administration. It is an important part of licensure. Staff records consist of various documentation such as employment application, medical report, TB test results, Annual Health questionnaire, Emergency contact information, CRC qualification letter, documentation of orientation, in service training hours, CPR and First Aid, and playground safety. I also suggested the administrator use Be a Smart Consumer of Child Care Training and Be a Smart Consumer of CPR and First Aid Training. Both documents can be found on the DCDEE Website underneath the provider and professional development tabs. Please submit certificates of completion along with the compliance letter. DCDEE WORKS:I reminded the administrator to assist staff members with enrolling and/or updating information in the DCDEE WORKS system using their individual NCIDs. Staff members will need to create a DCDEE WORKS account, upload required certificates, and submit their updated educational transcripts by mail or electronically. The portal is available online and may be accessed via the following link: https://dcdee.works.nc.gov/. Challenging Behaviors: Do you have children who bite? Do children struggle to focus during circle time? Do challenging behaviors cause difficult transitions? Do you spend all day managing behavior? Are you at your wits' end? Help is available for these and other behavior challenges! The Challenging Behaviors Hotline has opened and is provided for Free. You may speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to challenging behaviors in your facility. Dial 1-888-600-1685 Option 1 or for more information go to www.childcareresourcesinc.org/challenging-behaviors-helpline. NCDHHS Responds to Increase in Measles Cases: Measles is on the rise globally and in North Carolina. As a highly contagious, airborne disease, even one case is a major priority for public health. NCDHHS is taking action by launching new outreach resources for child care providers, families, and community stakeholders to help curb the spread. Child care providers can share information about vaccinations with the families served and be informed with the most current information. For more information and to access tools and resources, visit NCDHHS at dph.ncdhhs.gov/measles. Visit the DCDEE website (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/) for updated requirements, forms, and other pertinent information. Please feel free to contact me at yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov or (910) 305-2371 or Rhonda Blackmon, Licensing Supervisor at rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov (910) 709-4168 if you have any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: STACEY EATON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1125-124A Visit Date: 11/24/2025 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 11/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 55 Time In: 11:20 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to follow-up regarding allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Brandi Church, Assistant Director, accompanied me during a walk through the facility. During the visit, I spoke with Ms. Church, who stated that Brenicia McNeill, Administrator, was not at the facility today. I also spoke to one staff member during today[s visit. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). The Administrator failed to submit required forms to complete a criminal background check for over a year after it expired. The renewal originally expired on September 6 2024, the documentation to renew the criminal background check was not submitted to the Division until October 24, 2025. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. The Administrator did not have a valid qualification letter on file during the initial site visit on November 18, 2025, the letter submitted did not display information at the top, a new qualification letter was submitted on November 19, 2025 with an expiration date of September 6, 2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) Violations must be corrected immediately. Within one week December 1, 2025, you must submit documentation of the corrections you made and your plan to maintain compliance with the identified child care requirements to me at. Stacey Eaton, Investigations Consultant, Phone#: (910)260-2071, Fax#: (910)425-7124, Email Address: stacey.eaton@dhhs.nc.gov. You may contact me at Stacey Eaton, Investigations Consultant, Phone#: (910)260-2071, Fax#: (910) 425-7124, Email Address: stacey.eaton@dhhs.nc.gov or Melissa Loehr, Southeastern Investigations Supervisor, Email Address: melissa.loehr@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0901 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: STACEY EATON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1125-124A Visit Date: 11/18/2025 Number Present: 78 Completed Date: 11/18/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Brenicia McNeill, Administrator, accompanied me during a walk through the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. McNeill and three additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. Staff/child ratios for one group size exceeded twelve to one staff for the number of children allowed in a classroom the first and last hours of the day. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. The allergy listing was posted, however, staff member failed to follow the posting and fed a known allergen to a child. .0901(g) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. On September 26, 2025, a child with a known allergy was provided a food substitution that was not of comparable food value to the allergen listed on the menu. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 853 Incident logs were not completed and maintained as required. Incident log was also not completed for child being given fish, a known allergy by staff member. .0802(g)(1-6) 1911 An incident report was not completed and mailed to a Division representative within seven days after the incident when medical treatment was required. An incident report was not completed when a child was given fish a known allergy by staff member and parent informed child was taken to ER/medical care and a copy was not mailed to Division within seven days following the incident. .0802(f) Violations must be corrected immediately. Within one week November 25, 2025, you must submit documentation of the corrections you made and your plan to maintain compliance with the identified child care requirements to me at. Stacey Eaton, Investigations Consultant, Phone#: (910)260-2071, Fax#: (910)425-7124, Email Address: stacey.eaton@dhhs.nc.gov. You may contact me at Stacey Eaton, Investigations Consultant, Phone#: (910)260-2071, Fax#: (910)425-7124, Email Address: stacey.eaton@dhhs.nc.gov or Melissa Loehr, Southeastern Investigations Supervisor, Phone#: Email Address: melissa.loehr@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: STACEY EATON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1125-124A Visit Date: 11/18/2025 Number Present: 78 Completed Date: 11/18/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 10:00 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Brenicia McNeill, Administrator, accompanied me during a walk through the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. McNeill and three additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. Staff/child ratios for one group size exceeded twelve to one staff for the number of children allowed in a classroom the first and last hours of the day. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 508 Special diet or food allergy information was not posted where they can be seen in food preparation and eating areas. The allergy listing was posted, however, staff member failed to follow the posting and fed a known allergen to a child. .0901(g) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. On September 26, 2025, a child with a known allergy was provided a food substitution that was not of comparable food value to the allergen listed on the menu. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 853 Incident logs were not completed and maintained as required. Incident log was also not completed for child being given fish, a known allergy by staff member. .0802(g)(1-6) 1911 An incident report was not completed and mailed to a Division representative within seven days after the incident when medical treatment was required. An incident report was not completed when a child was given fish a known allergy by staff member and parent informed child was taken to ER/medical care and a copy was not mailed to Division within seven days following the incident. .0802(f) Violations must be corrected immediately. Within one week November 25, 2025, you must submit documentation of the corrections you made and your plan to maintain compliance with the identified child care requirements to me at. Stacey Eaton, Investigations Consultant, Phone#: (910)260-2071, Fax#: (910)425-7124, Email Address: stacey.eaton@dhhs.nc.gov. You may contact me at Stacey Eaton, Investigations Consultant, Phone#: (910)260-2071, Fax#: (910)425-7124, Email Address: stacey.eaton@dhhs.nc.gov or Melissa Loehr, Southeastern Investigations Supervisor, Phone#: Email Address: melissa.loehr@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: YOLANDA PRIDGEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1025-424L Visit Date: 11/5/2025 Number Present: 80 Completed Date: 11/5/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 340 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate an allegation regarding violations of child care requirements. The most recent Annual Compliance Visit was completed April 15, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 90%, as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Five (5) Star License issued November 2, 2024. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, five (5) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Staff benefits package and Infrastructure of parent involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brenicia McNeill, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of superior completed June 18, 2025. Fire Classification of approved for daytime care only completed June 23, 2025. There are allegations of violations of child care requirements including but not limited to: • Unsafe Environment • Incident Reports Brenicia McNeill, administrator, was present and accompanied me while observing the indoor and outdoor areas. New assistant director. B. Church was present and assisted with the visit. In spaces #1 and #2, I observed two infants resting in their individual cribs while other infants received tummy time on the floor and explored the classroom areas. Preschool-aged children in all other spaces were engaged in free choice activities both indoors and outdoors. Children manipulated waffle blocks, danced to music, discussed listening in circle time, and engaged in naming flashcards with objects. A group of children in space #7 were observed putting on their jackets and teachers escorting them outdoors. In the outdoor area, children played basketball, ran around the field, chasing each other, and built structures with sand toys in the sand pit area. I observed staff completing diapering, toilet training, and assisting children with toileting when needed. Handwashing routines were monitored. For lunch, the cook served chicken patty on wheat bun, sweet potatoes, applesauce, and milk. Children were observed resting on individual cots as soft instrumental music played. The allegations were discussed with B. McNeill. I interviewed six (6) staff members including the administrator about challenging behaviors throughout the facility that resulted in an unsafe environment. The administrator stated there had been an on-going issue with children enrolled in space #4 with challenging behaviors. Based on staff interviews, teachers would contact administrators and other staff members to assist with challenging behaviors within the classroom. B. McNeill stated the facility received visits from Child Care Health Consultants for an unrelated health issue and the health consultants offered their assistance by providing staff with resources on developmental milestones. During staff interviews, it was determined the challenging behaviors displayed throughout the facility and more specifically in space #4 did not result in an unsafe environment for children. The documents monitored during the visit were completed incident report forms, the facility’s behavior incident reports, and the incident report logs beginning January 2025 until present. Based on classroom observations, information gathered, and staff interviews, allegations of an unsafe environment and incident reports not completed are both unsubstantiated. A staff and training worksheet was completed and an employee file was monitored for one new staff member. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with B. McNeill. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 218 Outdoor play area did not provide an area that is shaded. During today's visit, no shade structure was available on the playground used for infants and toddlers. 10A NCAC 09 .1402(d) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Accessible to children indoors, the kitchen door was not locked. In the outdoor play area, a portable basketball goal was not secured and was weighted down with two (2) concrete landscaping bricks. In the infant/toddler outdoor space, the drainage pipes created a hole that caused a potential tripping hazard. The violations were corrected when the administrator placed a rug over the drain hole, removed the landscaping bricks from the play area, and locked the kitchen door. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The depth of the mulch underneath the climbing structure was less than the required 12 inches. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on November 19, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Yolanda Pridgen Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 25561 Fayetteville, NC 28314 yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: During today’s visit, I discussed with the administrator the facility’s protocol on challenging behaviors in the classroom. B. McNeill stated the corporation has a regional specialist to assist staff members with classroom management and how to handle challenging behaviors. B. McNeill stated she has provided staff with resources from community agencies. I recommended she contact Cumberland County Partnership for Children www.ccpfc.org and complete a technical assistance application requesting specifically Healthy Social Behavior. B. McNeill stated a professional development day is scheduled for November 11, 2025 and challenging behaviors, completing documentation, and incident reports will be discussed. I reminded her that more information on incident reports could be found in NC Child Care rule 0802. If you have questions, please contact me at: (910) 305-2371 or yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1402 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: YOLANDA PRIDGEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1025-424L Visit Date: 11/5/2025 Number Present: 80 Completed Date: 11/5/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 340 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate an allegation regarding violations of child care requirements. The most recent Annual Compliance Visit was completed April 15, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 90%, as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Five (5) Star License issued November 2, 2024. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, five (5) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Staff benefits package and Infrastructure of parent involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brenicia McNeill, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of superior completed June 18, 2025. Fire Classification of approved for daytime care only completed June 23, 2025. There are allegations of violations of child care requirements including but not limited to: • Unsafe Environment • Incident Reports Brenicia McNeill, administrator, was present and accompanied me while observing the indoor and outdoor areas. New assistant director. B. Church was present and assisted with the visit. In spaces #1 and #2, I observed two infants resting in their individual cribs while other infants received tummy time on the floor and explored the classroom areas. Preschool-aged children in all other spaces were engaged in free choice activities both indoors and outdoors. Children manipulated waffle blocks, danced to music, discussed listening in circle time, and engaged in naming flashcards with objects. A group of children in space #7 were observed putting on their jackets and teachers escorting them outdoors. In the outdoor area, children played basketball, ran around the field, chasing each other, and built structures with sand toys in the sand pit area. I observed staff completing diapering, toilet training, and assisting children with toileting when needed. Handwashing routines were monitored. For lunch, the cook served chicken patty on wheat bun, sweet potatoes, applesauce, and milk. Children were observed resting on individual cots as soft instrumental music played. The allegations were discussed with B. McNeill. I interviewed six (6) staff members including the administrator about challenging behaviors throughout the facility that resulted in an unsafe environment. The administrator stated there had been an on-going issue with children enrolled in space #4 with challenging behaviors. Based on staff interviews, teachers would contact administrators and other staff members to assist with challenging behaviors within the classroom. B. McNeill stated the facility received visits from Child Care Health Consultants for an unrelated health issue and the health consultants offered their assistance by providing staff with resources on developmental milestones. During staff interviews, it was determined the challenging behaviors displayed throughout the facility and more specifically in space #4 did not result in an unsafe environment for children. The documents monitored during the visit were completed incident report forms, the facility’s behavior incident reports, and the incident report logs beginning January 2025 until present. Based on classroom observations, information gathered, and staff interviews, allegations of an unsafe environment and incident reports not completed are both unsubstantiated. A staff and training worksheet was completed and an employee file was monitored for one new staff member. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with B. McNeill. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 218 Outdoor play area did not provide an area that is shaded. During today's visit, no shade structure was available on the playground used for infants and toddlers. 10A NCAC 09 .1402(d) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Accessible to children indoors, the kitchen door was not locked. In the outdoor play area, a portable basketball goal was not secured and was weighted down with two (2) concrete landscaping bricks. In the infant/toddler outdoor space, the drainage pipes created a hole that caused a potential tripping hazard. The violations were corrected when the administrator placed a rug over the drain hole, removed the landscaping bricks from the play area, and locked the kitchen door. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The depth of the mulch underneath the climbing structure was less than the required 12 inches. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on November 19, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Yolanda Pridgen Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 25561 Fayetteville, NC 28314 yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: During today’s visit, I discussed with the administrator the facility’s protocol on challenging behaviors in the classroom. B. McNeill stated the corporation has a regional specialist to assist staff members with classroom management and how to handle challenging behaviors. B. McNeill stated she has provided staff with resources from community agencies. I recommended she contact Cumberland County Partnership for Children www.ccpfc.org and complete a technical assistance application requesting specifically Healthy Social Behavior. B. McNeill stated a professional development day is scheduled for November 11, 2025 and challenging behaviors, completing documentation, and incident reports will be discussed. I reminded her that more information on incident reports could be found in NC Child Care rule 0802. If you have questions, please contact me at: (910) 305-2371 or yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: YOLANDA PRIDGEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1025-424L Visit Date: 11/5/2025 Number Present: 80 Completed Date: 11/5/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 340 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate an allegation regarding violations of child care requirements. The most recent Annual Compliance Visit was completed April 15, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 90%, as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Five (5) Star License issued November 2, 2024. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, five (5) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Staff benefits package and Infrastructure of parent involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brenicia McNeill, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of superior completed June 18, 2025. Fire Classification of approved for daytime care only completed June 23, 2025. There are allegations of violations of child care requirements including but not limited to: • Unsafe Environment • Incident Reports Brenicia McNeill, administrator, was present and accompanied me while observing the indoor and outdoor areas. New assistant director. B. Church was present and assisted with the visit. In spaces #1 and #2, I observed two infants resting in their individual cribs while other infants received tummy time on the floor and explored the classroom areas. Preschool-aged children in all other spaces were engaged in free choice activities both indoors and outdoors. Children manipulated waffle blocks, danced to music, discussed listening in circle time, and engaged in naming flashcards with objects. A group of children in space #7 were observed putting on their jackets and teachers escorting them outdoors. In the outdoor area, children played basketball, ran around the field, chasing each other, and built structures with sand toys in the sand pit area. I observed staff completing diapering, toilet training, and assisting children with toileting when needed. Handwashing routines were monitored. For lunch, the cook served chicken patty on wheat bun, sweet potatoes, applesauce, and milk. Children were observed resting on individual cots as soft instrumental music played. The allegations were discussed with B. McNeill. I interviewed six (6) staff members including the administrator about challenging behaviors throughout the facility that resulted in an unsafe environment. The administrator stated there had been an on-going issue with children enrolled in space #4 with challenging behaviors. Based on staff interviews, teachers would contact administrators and other staff members to assist with challenging behaviors within the classroom. B. McNeill stated the facility received visits from Child Care Health Consultants for an unrelated health issue and the health consultants offered their assistance by providing staff with resources on developmental milestones. During staff interviews, it was determined the challenging behaviors displayed throughout the facility and more specifically in space #4 did not result in an unsafe environment for children. The documents monitored during the visit were completed incident report forms, the facility’s behavior incident reports, and the incident report logs beginning January 2025 until present. Based on classroom observations, information gathered, and staff interviews, allegations of an unsafe environment and incident reports not completed are both unsubstantiated. A staff and training worksheet was completed and an employee file was monitored for one new staff member. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with B. McNeill. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 218 Outdoor play area did not provide an area that is shaded. During today's visit, no shade structure was available on the playground used for infants and toddlers. 10A NCAC 09 .1402(d) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Accessible to children indoors, the kitchen door was not locked. In the outdoor play area, a portable basketball goal was not secured and was weighted down with two (2) concrete landscaping bricks. In the infant/toddler outdoor space, the drainage pipes created a hole that caused a potential tripping hazard. The violations were corrected when the administrator placed a rug over the drain hole, removed the landscaping bricks from the play area, and locked the kitchen door. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The depth of the mulch underneath the climbing structure was less than the required 12 inches. .0605(k)(1-4) 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 violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on November 19, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Yolanda Pridgen Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 25561 Fayetteville, NC 28314 yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: During today’s visit, I discussed with the administrator the facility’s protocol on challenging behaviors in the classroom. B. McNeill stated the corporation has a regional specialist to assist staff members with classroom management and how to handle challenging behaviors. B. McNeill stated she has provided staff with resources from community agencies. I recommended she contact Cumberland County Partnership for Children www.ccpfc.org and complete a technical assistance application requesting specifically Healthy Social Behavior. B. McNeill stated a professional development day is scheduled for November 11, 2025 and challenging behaviors, completing documentation, and incident reports will be discussed. I reminded her that more information on incident reports could be found in NC Child Care rule 0802. If you have questions, please contact me at: (910) 305-2371 or yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: YOLANDA PRIDGEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/25/2025 Number Present: 78 Completed Date: 9/25/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 03:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a Routine Unannounced Visit. The most recent Annual Compliance Visit was completed April 15, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 89%, as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Five (5) Star License issued November 2, 2024. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, five (5) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Staff benefits package and Infrastructure of parent involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brenicia McNeill, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of superior completed June 18, 2025. A copy of the sanitation inspection was received during today’s visit. Fire Classification of approved for daytime care only completed June 23, 2025. Brenicia McNeill, administrator, was present and accompanied me while observing the indoor and outdoor areas. Assistant director. T. Beverly was present and assisted with the visit. In space #1, I observed a staff member sitting on the floor, playing with infants during tummy time and manipulating soft toys and rattles. One teacher held and comforted an infant while other infants rested in their individual cribs. Preschool-aged children in all other spaces were engaged in free choice activities both indoors and outdoors. Children manipulated waffle blocks, read books in the cozy area, and cooked pretend meals in dramatic play with toy foods and cooking utensils. A group of children were observed painting on construction paper with dot stampers. In the outdoor area, children rode tricycles on the cemented patio, climbed and slid down stationary equipment, and ran a relay race with other children. I observed staff completing diapering routines and assisted children with toileting when needed. Handwashing and other personal care routines were completed and monitored. For lunch, the cook served chicken patty with cheese pasta, mixed vegetables, sliced apples, and milk. Children were observed resting on individual cots as soft instrumental music played. A Staff and Training Worksheet was received and updated for five (5) new staff members. All new employee files were monitored. The most current monthly fire drill was conducted on September 24, 2025 and a quarterly shelter-in-place emergency drill was completed September 9, 2025. A monthly playground inspection was conducted on September 24, 2025. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with B. McNeill. The following violation was observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Accessible to children in care, two containers of Clorox disinfecting wipes and a bottle of toy disinfecting solution was stored on a table in the administrator's unlocked office. The violation was corrected when the administrator removed the containers and placed them in the locked closet inside the office. .2820(b) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The ABCMS portal was not updated with current staff employed at the facility including staff who were hired within five business days. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on October 9, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Yolanda Pridgen Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 25561 Fayetteville, NC 28314 yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: Classroom Observation: I observed children in space #5 where they were creating individual art with paper and various colored paint marker dots. Children were engaged in conversations with teachers as they assisted children with pressing their markers down on the colored construction paper to make dots with the paint. “Try pressing it harder. That’s it, you did a good job”. Materials were stored on open shelves and accessible to children in care. I encourage staff to rotate throughout the classroom when working with children to ensure they are working with everyone. I also encourage teachers to utilize resources such as “Language and Learning” videos through the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project. Information can be found at https://ncrlap.org/Resources/. Criminal Background Check Qualification Letters: During the visit, there were two coaches from N Zone Sports who were gathering children enrolled in their soccer program. The coaches worked with children in the outdoor area for approximately 30 minutes before escorting children to their classrooms. A CBC qualification letter was available for review for one of the coaches. The other coach did not have a CBC qualification letter available for review. I discussed with administrators if children are left alone with individuals such as therapists or coaches, who do not have a valid CBC qualification letter, a staff member with a valid CBC qualification letter must accompany them when children are in care. I reminded administrators with request valid CBC qualification letters from any individual who visit the facility to work with children independently. DCDEE WORKS: I reminded the administrator to assist staff members with enrolling and/or updating information in the DCDEE WORKS system using their individual NCIDs. Staff members will need to create a DCDEE WORKS account, upload required certificates, and submit their updated educational transcripts by mail or electronically. The portal is available online and may be accessed via the following link: https://dcdee.works.nc.gov/. If you have questions, please contact me at: (910) 305-2371 or yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: YOLANDA PRIDGEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/25/2025 Number Present: 78 Completed Date: 9/25/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 03:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a Routine Unannounced Visit. The most recent Annual Compliance Visit was completed April 15, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 89%, as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Five (5) Star License issued November 2, 2024. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, five (5) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Staff benefits package and Infrastructure of parent involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brenicia McNeill, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of superior completed June 18, 2025. A copy of the sanitation inspection was received during today’s visit. Fire Classification of approved for daytime care only completed June 23, 2025. Brenicia McNeill, administrator, was present and accompanied me while observing the indoor and outdoor areas. Assistant director. T. Beverly was present and assisted with the visit. In space #1, I observed a staff member sitting on the floor, playing with infants during tummy time and manipulating soft toys and rattles. One teacher held and comforted an infant while other infants rested in their individual cribs. Preschool-aged children in all other spaces were engaged in free choice activities both indoors and outdoors. Children manipulated waffle blocks, read books in the cozy area, and cooked pretend meals in dramatic play with toy foods and cooking utensils. A group of children were observed painting on construction paper with dot stampers. In the outdoor area, children rode tricycles on the cemented patio, climbed and slid down stationary equipment, and ran a relay race with other children. I observed staff completing diapering routines and assisted children with toileting when needed. Handwashing and other personal care routines were completed and monitored. For lunch, the cook served chicken patty with cheese pasta, mixed vegetables, sliced apples, and milk. Children were observed resting on individual cots as soft instrumental music played. A Staff and Training Worksheet was received and updated for five (5) new staff members. All new employee files were monitored. The most current monthly fire drill was conducted on September 24, 2025 and a quarterly shelter-in-place emergency drill was completed September 9, 2025. A monthly playground inspection was conducted on September 24, 2025. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with B. McNeill. The following violation was observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Accessible to children in care, two containers of Clorox disinfecting wipes and a bottle of toy disinfecting solution was stored on a table in the administrator's unlocked office. The violation was corrected when the administrator removed the containers and placed them in the locked closet inside the office. .2820(b) 1805 A child care operator did not notify the Division of any new child care providers, as defined in G.S. 110-90.2(a)(2), who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The ABCMS portal was not updated with current staff employed at the facility including staff who were hired within five business days. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on October 9, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Yolanda Pridgen Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 25561 Fayetteville, NC 28314 yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: Classroom Observation: I observed children in space #5 where they were creating individual art with paper and various colored paint marker dots. Children were engaged in conversations with teachers as they assisted children with pressing their markers down on the colored construction paper to make dots with the paint. “Try pressing it harder. That’s it, you did a good job”. Materials were stored on open shelves and accessible to children in care. I encourage staff to rotate throughout the classroom when working with children to ensure they are working with everyone. I also encourage teachers to utilize resources such as “Language and Learning” videos through the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project. Information can be found at https://ncrlap.org/Resources/. Criminal Background Check Qualification Letters: During the visit, there were two coaches from N Zone Sports who were gathering children enrolled in their soccer program. The coaches worked with children in the outdoor area for approximately 30 minutes before escorting children to their classrooms. A CBC qualification letter was available for review for one of the coaches. The other coach did not have a CBC qualification letter available for review. I discussed with administrators if children are left alone with individuals such as therapists or coaches, who do not have a valid CBC qualification letter, a staff member with a valid CBC qualification letter must accompany them when children are in care. I reminded administrators with request valid CBC qualification letters from any individual who visit the facility to work with children independently. DCDEE WORKS: I reminded the administrator to assist staff members with enrolling and/or updating information in the DCDEE WORKS system using their individual NCIDs. Staff members will need to create a DCDEE WORKS account, upload required certificates, and submit their updated educational transcripts by mail or electronically. The portal is available online and may be accessed via the following link: https://dcdee.works.nc.gov/. If you have questions, please contact me at: (910) 305-2371 or yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: YOLANDA PRIDGEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/15/2025 Number Present: 71 Completed Date: 4/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 435 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 04:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirement pertinent to an Annual Compliance Visit including health and safety trainings. The most recent Temporary Time Period Visit was completed October 1, 2024, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 90%, as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Five (5) Star License issued December 30, 2019. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, five (5) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Staff benefits package and Infrastructure of parent involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brenicia McNeill, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of superior completed October 7, 2024. Fire Classification of approved for daytime care only completed July 12, 2024. Brenicia McNeill, administrator, was present and accompanied me while observing the indoor. Assistant director. T. Beverly was present and assisted with the visit. I observed most of the outdoor areas unaccompanied by a staff member. In space #1 and #2, I observed staff sitting in rocking chairs holding and bottle feeding and infant. Two infants were resting in their individual cribs on clean linen. Two infants were on the floor, playing with age-appropriate materials and exploring the classroom area. Preschool-aged children in all other spaces were observed engaged in indoor and outdoor activities. Children played with large waffle blocks, built structures with colored magnetic tiles, and danced and sang “The Ants Go Marching”. Outdoors, children played with push/pull toys, played basketball, and climbed on stationary equipment with sliding. Upon return indoors, staff assisted children with diapering/toileting and hand washing routines in preparation for story time. I observed teacher reading “PB&J Hooray” and “Who Flies Cat the Cat” before preparing for mealtime. Lunch, prepared and served by the cook, consisted of turkey with rice and gravy, garden peas, peaches, and milk. Following lunch, I observed children resting on individual cots with clean linen. A checklist was used to note the requirements monitored during the visit. Staff and Training Worksheets were received and updated during the visit and six (6) employee files were monitored. The Children’s Record was completed and 10 files were monitored. The most recent fire drill was completed March 28, 2025 and the current shelter-in-place drill was completed on March 13, 2025. The most current monthly playground inspection was completed on April 3, 2025. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with B. McNeill. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 405 A child's hands were not washed after each diaper change. In space #9, I observed a teacher complete diapering routines with a child and when finished, the child returned to the carpet without washing their hands. The violation was corrected when the teacher assisted the child with washing their hands and then returned him/her to the carpet. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c)(2) 468 When three year old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. In space #6, the book area did not have three (3) related activities for at least three children to use. The dramatic play/family living area did not have sufficient quantity of materials to at least allow three (3) children to use. The book area contained 14 books and no other materials. The dramatic play/family living area contained a variety of pots, pans, eating utensils, pretend foods, 4 dolls with 2 pieces of doll clothing, 2 dress-up garments, and two hats. .0510(d)(1) 473 Music and rhythm activities were not available weekly to each group. A music/karaoke machine was present for music and movement. No other music and movement materials were present or made available for children at least weekly in space #6. .0510(c)(1) 474 Science and nature activities were not available weekly to each group. A bin each of magnifying glasses, colored magnetic tiles, and toy whales were present for science and nature. No other science and nature materials were present or made available for children at least weekly in space #6. .0510(c)(2) 475 Sand and water play activities were not available weekly to each group. There were no furnishings or materials related to sand and water activities available for children at least weekly in space #6. .0510(c)(3) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. One child's bottle was stored in the refrigerator without the child's name or date. The violation was corrected when the teacher put the child's name and date on the bottle. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 619 Diaper changing surfaces were not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after each use. In space #9, I observed a teacher complete diapering routines without cleaning and disinfecting all diaper changing surfaces. The violation was corrected when the teacher reviewed the diapering chart and completed steps in cleaning and disinfecting the diaper changing mat and table surfaces. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(c) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. Accessible to preschool-aged children in space #3b, a teacher's purse was hanging on the bathroom door not in locked storage. The violation was corrected when the administrator placed the teacher's purse in a locked cabinet inside the classroom. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Accessible to preschool aged children in space #3b, an unlocked storage closet contained loose trash bags on the floor and trash bags containing toys and stuffed animals. The violation was corrected when the administrator removed the loose trash bags and placed the trash bags containing toys on a shelf that was over 5 feet from the floor. .0604(q) 9999 A violation was found for which there is no item number. In space #9, I observed a teacher complete diapering routines with a child. The teacher did not complete the step of wiping their hands and then the child's hands each with a separate disposable towelette or moistened paper towel. This is a violation of a requirement in 15A NCAC 18A .2819(d)(5). 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. Violation observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violation observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on April 29, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Yolanda Pridgen Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 25561 Fayetteville, NC 28314 yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: Storage of Hazardous Items: The violation for storage of hazardous items was cited today. Properly storing hazardous materials is important because if in reach of children, may present a poison hazard if ingested, inhaled, or handled. I shared that additional information regarding the storage of medication can be found in Child Care Sanitation Rule 15A NCAC 18A.2820(b). A copy of the “Hazardous Items Storage for Child Care” resource may be obtained from our website. We also discussed the following strategies for achieving and maintaining compliance: review the resource with staff at your next staff meeting; remind staff to check behind the other; and periodically check classroom spaces throughout the day to ensure all hazardous items are locked. Hand washing and Sanitizing: A violation was cited for hand washing of children and staff. It was discussed with the administrator that hand washing is our first line of defense to prevent the spread of germs. For children, handwashing must occur upon arrival, before and after eating, after toileting routines/diapering, after messy play, after outdoor play, and after touching contaminate surface or bodily fluids. Staff members must complete hand washing thoroughly before beginning work, before/after handling food, before bottle feeding or serving to other children, after toileting or handling body fluids, after diaper changing and/or after handling soiled items. We discussed cleaning, sanitizing, and the disinfecting of materials, eating surfaces, and other sanitation practices. It was recommended that administrators review handwashing and sanitation practices with all staff. You may review resources at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/ordering-posters and order step-by-step demonstration of procedures free of charge. Child Care Health Consultant: The Cumberland County Department of Public Health current Child Care Health Consultant is Nicole Richardson. Her contact number is: 910-678-7706 and her email address: nrrichardson@cumberlandcountync.gov Visit the website https://nccchcassociation.org/resources/ , under resources there are several links that may be beneficial for your Family Child Care Home. For example, Caring for Our Children, My Plate, Safe Kids NC, and many others. The following website will also provide more information about the Child Care Health Consultants. The Child Care Health Consultant provides support in the following areas, but not limited to: oral health, illness, infectious disease, emergency preparedness, health related areas, nutrition, environmental health, and physical activity. For addition information areas, visit the website, https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/child-care-health-consultants/about-cchc/. If you have questions, please contact me at: (910) 305-2371 or yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: YOLANDA PRIDGEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0325-358L Visit Date: 4/1/2025 Number Present: 83 Completed Date: 4/1/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 12:00 PM Time Out: 04:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate an allegation regarding violations of child care requirements. A Temporary Time Period Visit was completed October 1, 2024, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 90%, as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Five (5) Star License issued December 30, 2019. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, five (5) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Staff benefits package and Infrastructure of parent involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brenicia McNeill, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of superior completed October 7, 2024. Fire Classification of approved for daytime care only completed July 12, 2024. There are allegations of violations of child care requirements including but not limited to: • Approved space • Staff/child ratio • Capacity • Sanitation Brenicia McNeill, administrator, was present and accompanied me while observing the indoor. Assistant director. T. Beverly was present and assisted with the visit. I observed the outdoor areas unaccompanied by a staff member. In space #1, I observed staff sitting on the floor, playing with infants during tummy time and manipulating soft toys and rattles. One infant was observed resting in their crib. Preschool-aged children in all other spaces were observed resting on individual cots with clean linen. Children who were not asleep were engaged in quiet activities such as reading books or playing with puzzles. Mealtime was not observed. The allegations were discussed with B. McNeill. While observed the indoor area, it was discussed space #6 is not in use due to the space will potentially served children who are four (4) years old. Ms. McNeill stated the two (2) year old children who were previously enrolled in space #6 are now assigned to space #9. During the visit, there were twelve (12) children all two (2) years old present and based on the attendance roster, there were fourteen (14) children enrolled. The facility’s floor plan indicated the capacity in space #9 is fifteen (15) children. B. McNeill stated she was unaware of the capacities in each classroom as it was discussed with Rhonda Blackmon during Temporary Time Period visits. I interviewed staff members assigned to the classroom and they stated since transitioning to space #9, there have been no more than the current 14 children enrolled. During rest time, I observed children asleep on cots placed 7 inches, 9 inches, and 11 inches apart. B. McNeill and the teacher place clear dividers between the children as a solid barrier. During the visit, I observed attendance records for the past 90 days and enrollment did not exceed 14 children in space #9. Based on staff interviews, observations, and program record, the following violations were unsubstantiated: approved space, staff/child ratio, and capacity. Based on observation, allegations of sanitation because children rested on cots that were less than 18 inches was substantiated. A Staff and Training Worksheet was completed for two (2) new staff member and employee files were monitored. The most recent fire drill was completed March 28, 2025 and the current shelter-in-place drill was completed on March 13, 2025. The most current monthly playground inspection was completed on March 3, 2025. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with B. McNeill. The following violation was observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. In space #9, I observed three (3) children resting on individual cots that were placed 7", 9", and 11" apart. The violation was corrected when the teacher and administrator placed partitions in between each child who were resting on cots. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violation observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violation observed and documented today was corrected immediately therefore a compliance letter is not required. Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: Spacing of Bedding: A violation was cited for children resting on cots that were less than 18 inches apart. Beds, cribs, playpens, cots or mats must placed at least 18” apart or separated by partitions when in use for the health and safety of children enrolled. Partitions were available in the classroom space however were not being used. I recommended the administrator discuss spacing between cots, cribs, and bedding with staff during their next staff meeting. For more information, see sanitation rules in NC Child Care 15A NCAC 18A.2821(e). If you have questions, please contact me at: (910) 305-2371 or yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: YOLANDA PRIDGEN Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0125-109L Visit Date: 1/14/2025 Number Present: 65 Completed Date: 1/14/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate an allegation regarding violations of child care requirements. The previous Annual Compliance Visit was completed October 10, 2020, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 94%, as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Five (5) Star License issued December 30, 2019. The License was based on the program earning seven (7) points in education standards, five (5) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet a programmatic option: Staff benefits package and Infrastructure of parent involvement. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brenicia McNeill, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of superior completed October 7, 2024. Fire Classification of approved for daytime care only completed July 12, 2024. There are concerns that children are not being adequately supervised. Tairence Beverly, assistant director, accompanied me while observing the indoor area. I observed the outdoor areas unaccompanied by a staff member. Brenicia McNeill was present and assisted with the visit. In spaces #1 and #2, I observed staff bottle feeding infants while other infants played on the carpeted area with soft toys. Preschool-aged children were observed in free choice activities in interest centers. Children created individual art with construction paper, crayons, and colored tape. I observed children cleaning and vacuuming the dramatic play area and creating pretend meals. Children and staff danced to the song “Baby Shark” and transitioned to the carpet for story time. Teachers read the book “Dig” and discussed it with children. Children in space #7 were engaged in completing personal care routines and hand washing as staff assisted as needed. The cook prepared and served lunch which consisted of ravioli with meat sauce, garden peas, applesauce, corn muffin, and milk. Following lunch, children completed toileting routines/hand washing and prepared for rest time. Children were observed resting on individual cots. The allegation was discussed with B. McNeill and T. Beverly. I interviewed each administrator individually and both were unaware of any situation regarding children not being adequately supervised at the facility. T. Beverly stated his work station is in the front lobby. Staff members interviewed confirmed that a staff member is stationed at the front desk during the facility’s operating hours. I interviewed an additional 12 staff members who were present during the week in question regarding children not being adequately supervised at the facility. Each staff member stated they were unaware of any child not being adequately supervised at any time. Based on interviews and information gathered, the allegation that children are not adequately supervised is unsubstantiated. A staff and training worksheet was completed for four (4) new staff members and their employee files were monitored. The most current monthly fire drill and playground inspection were completed on December 10, 2024. The most recent lockdown emergency drill was conducted on December 13, 2024. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with B. McNeill. The following violation was observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Accessible to children under three years of age, plastic shopping bags and lamination pages were stored on the countertops near the sink in space #6. The violation was corrected when the assistant director and the teacher removed the items from the countertop and placed them in cabinets that were at least 5ft. from the floor. .0604(q) 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. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violation observed and documented today was corrected immediately therefore a compliance letter is not required. Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: Choking Hazards: A violation was cited during today’s visit for plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart, and/or toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. I recommended that administrators have all staff remove materials accessible to children that could be a choking hazard in spaces used for children under three years old. I recommended staff members complete a safety check of each classroom throughout the day to ensure items that could potentially be hazardous to children be removed or stored properly. Additional information regarding plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart can be found in NC Child Care rule 10A NCAC .0604(q). Please feel free to contact me at yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov or 910-305-2371 if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/1/2024 Number Present: 63 Completed Date: 10/1/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a third temporary time period visit. The previous visit was completed on August 12, 2024, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 85% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued May 1, 2024 to November 1, 2024. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brenicia McNeill, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Building Inspection dated June 11, 2024. The building meets the NC existing Building Code and educational occupancy. Nine classrooms were approved for occupancy by children. Fire Classification of Satisfactory, approved for day time care only, completed July 12, 2024. The owner is in the process of obtaining an approved sanitation inspection for the change of ownership that occurred on May 1, 2024. A sanitation inspection is scheduled for October 7, 2024. As a reminder, the facility has 6 months from the issuance of the Temporary License (November 1, 2024) to obtain an approved Sanitation Inspection. I stated to B. McNeill, “If the facility is unable to obtain required inspections before the end of the temporary time period, a provisional license may be issued to give the owner time to come into compliance with applicable child care requirements.” Upon my arrival, I was greeted by B. McNeill, Administrator. B. McNeill accompanied me during a walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas. In Spaces #1 and #2, infants and toddlers slept in their assigned cribs, played on the carpeted floor with soft toys, dolls, books, and rattles/musical toys, and were held for bottle feeding. In Space #2, a diapering routine was observed. In Spaces #3A, #3B, #5, #6, and #7, preschool-age children participated in free play activities indoors and had their Fall School Pictures taken in Space #9. They built with Legos; stacked blocks on the carpet; manipulated floor puzzles and magnetic tiles and alphabet letters; played dressed up in the dramatic play area and cooked on the pretend stove and fed their babies; looked at books; and used magnifying glasses to examine different types of insects and rocks. In Space #4, Ms. Johnson led a large group activity. Children sung songs, participated in finger plays, counted by rote, and named the months of the year and days of the week during circle time. There were no enrollment records for Spaces #8 and #9. Enrollment and attendance records were monitored for all spaces. Lunch served was sliced turkey and gravy, brown rice, sweet peas, sliced peaches, and milk. Staff files were monitored August 12, 2024. Five (5) new employees were hired since the last visit. Their medical and personnel files were monitored today. Additionally, required program records were monitored. During the visit, a modified rules review using current General Statutes and Child Care Requirements was completed with B. McNeill as part of the requirements for the ownership change that occurred on May 1, 2024. B. McNeill was given the opportunity to ask questions for clarification and understanding. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with B. McNeill. The following violations were observed and corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. A child care provider, identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not have a medical report on file prior to employment, September 17, 2024. The medical report on file was dated September 26, 2024. This is a repeated violation from July 10, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. A child care provider, identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB on or before the first day of work, September 17, 2024. The results on file were dated September 24, 2024. .0701(a) No compliance letter is due at this time. As a reminder, 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. Technical Assistance/Consultation/Reminders Specific to Today’s Visit: Staff Records: The health and safety of children requires that information regarding each staff working with the children be kept and available when needed. Staff records consist of various documentation such as employment application, medical report, TB test results, Annual Health Questionnaire, emergency contact information, CBC qualification letter, and documentation of orientation, ongoing training, CPR and First Aid, and playground safety. A staff member hired September 17, 2024, did not have a medical report and negative TB Test results on file prior to employment. I discussed with the Administrator that the staff file checklist attached to the file is to be used as a tracking tool for paperwork submission and verification that the required information is on file by the due date. Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred regarding the two-component star rated license process and hold harmless process in effect on August 12, 2024. I stated to B. McNeill, “When a child care center operating under hold harmless undergoes a change of ownership, the consultant will use previous points achieved from the facilities last star rated license assessment to assign a star rating at the end of the temporary license.” The facility achieved the following points in each component during the last star rated license assessment completed December 30, 2019: Education Standards: Seven (7) points Administrator – 7pts Program Coordinator – 7pts Lead Teacher – 7pts Teacher – 7 pts Group Leader – 7pts Program Standards: Five (5) points The facility meets requirements in Rule .2806, and enhanced ratios. The ERS average is 5.41. Quality Point: One (1) point The facility meets the following quality point programmatic option: staff benefits package and infrastructure of parent involvement that can be verified by the Division. Based on this combination, the facility has earned thirteen (13) points and is applying for a five-star license under the two-component system. At the end of the temporary time period, if full compliance is achieved for the change of ownership, the rated license assessment packet will be completed and submitted to Raleigh for the issuance of a star rated license. The facility file will be transferred to the child care consultant in the assigned territory once the new license has been issued. At this time, the consultant for this facility will be: Yolanda Pridgen P.O. Box 25561 Fayetteville, NC 28314 Office 910-305-2371 Yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov You may visit our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for updated information regarding the child care law and rules, forms, and other pertinent information. The DCDEE has a new initiative – Natural Outdoor Learning Initiative. Through this initiative, we hope to increase knowledge and confidence for everyone in developing and implementing best practices to support the creation, programming, and safe use of naturalized outdoor spaces in child care facilities. You can learn more by visiting the NLI website, where you will also find many resources, including an updated Toolkit designed to help you enhance your outdoor learning environment. The downloadable NLI Toolkit is available at: https://naturalearning.org/preschool-outdoor-toolkit. If you have questions, please contact me at: (910) 709-4168 or Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/1/2024 Number Present: 63 Completed Date: 10/1/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a third temporary time period visit. The previous visit was completed on August 12, 2024, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 85% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued May 1, 2024 to November 1, 2024. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brenicia McNeill, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Building Inspection dated June 11, 2024. The building meets the NC existing Building Code and educational occupancy. Nine classrooms were approved for occupancy by children. Fire Classification of Satisfactory, approved for day time care only, completed July 12, 2024. The owner is in the process of obtaining an approved sanitation inspection for the change of ownership that occurred on May 1, 2024. A sanitation inspection is scheduled for October 7, 2024. As a reminder, the facility has 6 months from the issuance of the Temporary License (November 1, 2024) to obtain an approved Sanitation Inspection. I stated to B. McNeill, “If the facility is unable to obtain required inspections before the end of the temporary time period, a provisional license may be issued to give the owner time to come into compliance with applicable child care requirements.” Upon my arrival, I was greeted by B. McNeill, Administrator. B. McNeill accompanied me during a walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas. In Spaces #1 and #2, infants and toddlers slept in their assigned cribs, played on the carpeted floor with soft toys, dolls, books, and rattles/musical toys, and were held for bottle feeding. In Space #2, a diapering routine was observed. In Spaces #3A, #3B, #5, #6, and #7, preschool-age children participated in free play activities indoors and had their Fall School Pictures taken in Space #9. They built with Legos; stacked blocks on the carpet; manipulated floor puzzles and magnetic tiles and alphabet letters; played dressed up in the dramatic play area and cooked on the pretend stove and fed their babies; looked at books; and used magnifying glasses to examine different types of insects and rocks. In Space #4, Ms. Johnson led a large group activity. Children sung songs, participated in finger plays, counted by rote, and named the months of the year and days of the week during circle time. There were no enrollment records for Spaces #8 and #9. Enrollment and attendance records were monitored for all spaces. Lunch served was sliced turkey and gravy, brown rice, sweet peas, sliced peaches, and milk. Staff files were monitored August 12, 2024. Five (5) new employees were hired since the last visit. Their medical and personnel files were monitored today. Additionally, required program records were monitored. During the visit, a modified rules review using current General Statutes and Child Care Requirements was completed with B. McNeill as part of the requirements for the ownership change that occurred on May 1, 2024. B. McNeill was given the opportunity to ask questions for clarification and understanding. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with B. McNeill. The following violations were observed and corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. A child care provider, identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not have a medical report on file prior to employment, September 17, 2024. The medical report on file was dated September 26, 2024. This is a repeated violation from July 10, 2024. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. A child care provider, identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB on or before the first day of work, September 17, 2024. The results on file were dated September 24, 2024. .0701(a) No compliance letter is due at this time. As a reminder, 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. Technical Assistance/Consultation/Reminders Specific to Today’s Visit: Staff Records: The health and safety of children requires that information regarding each staff working with the children be kept and available when needed. Staff records consist of various documentation such as employment application, medical report, TB test results, Annual Health Questionnaire, emergency contact information, CBC qualification letter, and documentation of orientation, ongoing training, CPR and First Aid, and playground safety. A staff member hired September 17, 2024, did not have a medical report and negative TB Test results on file prior to employment. I discussed with the Administrator that the staff file checklist attached to the file is to be used as a tracking tool for paperwork submission and verification that the required information is on file by the due date. Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred regarding the two-component star rated license process and hold harmless process in effect on August 12, 2024. I stated to B. McNeill, “When a child care center operating under hold harmless undergoes a change of ownership, the consultant will use previous points achieved from the facilities last star rated license assessment to assign a star rating at the end of the temporary license.” The facility achieved the following points in each component during the last star rated license assessment completed December 30, 2019: Education Standards: Seven (7) points Administrator – 7pts Program Coordinator – 7pts Lead Teacher – 7pts Teacher – 7 pts Group Leader – 7pts Program Standards: Five (5) points The facility meets requirements in Rule .2806, and enhanced ratios. The ERS average is 5.41. Quality Point: One (1) point The facility meets the following quality point programmatic option: staff benefits package and infrastructure of parent involvement that can be verified by the Division. Based on this combination, the facility has earned thirteen (13) points and is applying for a five-star license under the two-component system. At the end of the temporary time period, if full compliance is achieved for the change of ownership, the rated license assessment packet will be completed and submitted to Raleigh for the issuance of a star rated license. The facility file will be transferred to the child care consultant in the assigned territory once the new license has been issued. At this time, the consultant for this facility will be: Yolanda Pridgen P.O. Box 25561 Fayetteville, NC 28314 Office 910-305-2371 Yolanda.pridgen@dhhs.nc.gov You may visit our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for updated information regarding the child care law and rules, forms, and other pertinent information. The DCDEE has a new initiative – Natural Outdoor Learning Initiative. Through this initiative, we hope to increase knowledge and confidence for everyone in developing and implementing best practices to support the creation, programming, and safe use of naturalized outdoor spaces in child care facilities. You can learn more by visiting the NLI website, where you will also find many resources, including an updated Toolkit designed to help you enhance your outdoor learning environment. The downloadable NLI Toolkit is available at: https://naturalearning.org/preschool-outdoor-toolkit. If you have questions, please contact me at: (910) 709-4168 or Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/12/2024 Number Present: 56 Completed Date: 8/12/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 390 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: 03:30 PM Time Out: 05:00 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a second temporary time period visit. A full assessment using the Compliance Item Number Listing was completed. The previous visit was completed on July 10, 2024, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 96% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued May 1, 2024 to November 1, 2024. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brenicia McNeill and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. There are no current inspections at this time. The owner is in the process of obtaining current inspections for the change of ownership that occurred on May 1, 2024. The facility has 6 months from the issuance of the Temporary License (November 1, 2024) to obtain an approved Building, Fire, and Sanitation Inspection. B. McNeill, Administrator, and Tairence Beverly, Assistant Director, were present and assisted me during the visit. B. McNeill accompanied me during the walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas. Infants/toddlers present in Spaces #1 and #2 participated in free play and tummy time activities on the carpeted floor, slept in their assigned cribs, and chased bubbles. Mobile and nonmobile children had access to the required materials. Children played with rattles, stacking cups, soft blocks, and musical toys. The teachers interacted with the children and encouraged conversation and problem-solving. Two diapering routines were observed in Space #1. Additionally, a child was held for infant feeding. In Space #1, a bottled beverage for S.M. was labeled but not dated. In Space #2, a clear bottle with pink designs fully prepared was sitting on the counter. When the administrator asked, “Who’s bottle is this?” The teacher responded with the child’s name. The bottle was not labeled for the appropriate child or dated. When prompted, the teachers in Spaces #1 and #2 labeled and dated the bottles. In Space #1, there was a tube of Neosporin, and two packets of Tylenol stored inside the first aid kit in an unlocked cabinet above the sink. Additionally, there was a bottle of Dr. Talbot’s Mucus & Cold Relief stored in the outside pocket of a child’s grey bookbag hanging on a hook next to the exit door and a tube of Aquaphor stored inside a child’s cubby (C.B.) in Space #2, accessible to children in care. When prompted the administrator, removed the non-prescription medications from the first aid kit, book bag, and cubby, and placed them inside the locked medication box. In Space #1, the medication authorization on file to administer a topical ointment (Aquaphor) for two children (K.M. and S. N.) did not include the date of parent authorization or the length of time the authorization is valid. In Space #1, six children’s bookbags were stored on three separate hooks, causing contamination. Adequate storage space was not available for each child’s personal belongings. In Space #2, there was a plastic Walmart bag with two packs of paper plates and two packs of napkins with plastic outer wrapping stored inside a child’s cubby (D.S.), accessible to children, under three years of age. In Space #3B, there was a tube of Neosporin, and two packs of Tylenol stored inside the Red Bag hanging from a hook next to the sink, with personal care supplies and a first aid kit that staff carry outdoors with them daily. When prompted, the administrator removed the tube of Neosporin and packs of Tylenol and placed them inside the locked medication box. Children, one and two-years-old, played with fine motor materials and farm animals, stacked cups, and participated in personal care routines. After free play, they danced to music and looked at books prior to meal time. In Space #4, children, ages four and five-years-old, participated in a teacher directed art activity. They made “Super/Awesome Puppets” to use in the dramatic play and language arts areas. After the teacher directed activity, children participated in free play/choice. They manipulated puzzles, Lincoln Logs, Play Stix, and magnetic numbers. Two children, four-years-old, built with blocks and pushed vehicles on the carpeted area. In Space #6, children, two and three-years-old, listened to the story, “Pizza Day.” T. Beale, Teacher, asked open-ended questions and engaged the children in conversation. D. Lopez, Teacher, cleaned and sanitized the tables. After story time, the children washed their hands and transitioned to the tables for lunch. Lunch served was cheese pizza, sweet peas, pineapple tidbits, and milk. In Space #7, children, three-years-old, sat on the carpet and watched “Peppa Pig – Secrets” from a tablet provided by the facility. I requested to review the screen time or cumulative log. The administrator stated A. Leon was on a scheduled break and that the staff in the room did not have access to them. The screen time activity was not documented on a cumulative log or the activity plan that was reviewed. The administrator requested that T. Boone turn the tablet off and offer an alternate activity to the children. The children washed their hands and went to the tables for meal time. The cook brought the food inside the room while the children were washing their hands. After lunch, the children assisted the teachers with gathering their blankets and placing their assigned cots throughout the room for rest time. While monitoring the approved spaces, I observed peeling and flaking paint on the walls and window sills in Spaces #3B, #4, #7, and #9. There were no enrollment records for Space #3A, #5, #8, and #9. Staff and children files, and program records were monitored today. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with B. McNeill. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 205 Storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. Adequate storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. In Space #1, six children's bookbags with their personal items stored inside were hanging from three separate hooks. The children's personal belongings were not stored to prevent contamination. G.S. 110-91(6) 524 When children 3 years and older were in care, screen time was not used to stimulate a developmental domain; was not limited to 30 minutes a day and no more than a total of two and a half hours per week, per child; and/or was not documented on a cumulative log or the activity plan that is available for review. In Space #7, ten children, three-years-old, watched "Peppa Pig" on a tablet provided by the facility while waiting for lunch to be served. The screen time activity was not documented on a cumulative log or the activity plan that was available for review. .0510(d)(2)(A-C) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. Two bottled beverages in Spaces #1 and #2 were not dated and/or labeled for the appropriate child. When prompted, the teachers dated the bottle in Space #1 and dated and labeled the bottle for the appropriate child in Space #2. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. The paint on the walls and window sills in Spaces #3B, #4, #7, and #9 was peeling and flaking. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Spaces #1 and #3B, there was a tube of Neosporin, and two packets of Tylenol stored inside the first aid kit in an unlocked cabinet above the sink and in a Red Bag hanging on a hook next to the sink. Additionally, there was a bottle of Dr. Talbot’s Mucus & Cold Relief stored in the outside pocket of a child’s grey bookbag hanging on a hook next to the exit door in Space #1. When prompted, the administrator removed the non-prescription medications from the first aid kits and the book bag and placed them in a locked container. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space #2, there was a plastic Walmart bag with two packs of paper plates and two packs of napkins with plastic outer wrapping stored inside a child’s cubby, accessible to children under three years of age. .0604(q) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. The child care administrator did not complete the ITS-SIDS training every three years. The ITS-SIDS certification on file is dated October 19, 2020. .1102(f) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. In Space #1, the medication authorization on file to administer a topical ointment (Aquaphor) for two children, identified on the enrollment record, did not include the date of parent authorization or the length of time the authorization is valid. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) 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 violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00 p.m. on August 26, 2024, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Rhonda Blackmon Lead Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 279 Linden, NC 28356 Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance/Consultation/Reminders Specific to Today’s Visit: Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge, and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. Caregivers/teachers must be diligent in their adherence to the medication administration policy and procedures to prevent any inadvertent medication errors, which may be harmful to the child. There is always a risk that a child may have a negative reaction to a medication, and children should be monitored for serious side effects that may require an emergency response. All medicines require clear, accurate instruction and medical confirmation of the need for the medication to be given while the child is in the facility. Parents must submit signed and dated written authorization for the facility to administer their child’s medicine. Medication shall not be administered without written consent and/or expired consent. According to Sanitation Rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820 (d); Medications including prescription and non-prescription items shall be stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container and shall not be stored above food. Designated emergency medications shall be stored out of reach of children but are not required to be in locked storage. Non-prescription diaper creams and sunscreen shall be kept out of reach of children when not in use but are not required to be in locked storage. Out of reach means five feet above the finished floor. Screen time: One fact about today's society is that children are using computers, televisions, and video games more and more with little thought about the amount. Studies have shown that this increase in screen time is decreasing children's cognitive ability in some areas and is related to weight gain. With these studies, in addition to studies that conversely show that actively engaging children in a variety of activities promotes a child's development in all areas. As a reminder, screen time should be limited to 2 ½ hours per week per child, must be offered only as a free choice activity, and used to meet a developmental goal. The activity shall be documented on a cumulative log or the activity plan that is made available for review. Space/Storage Requirements: Space shall be available for proper storage of beds, cribs, mats, cots, sleeping garments, and linens as well as designated space for each child's personal belongings. Per sanitation requirement 18A .2820(E), individual cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall be provided for storage of coats, hats, or similar items. Coat hooks not in individual cubicles or lockers, shall be spaced at least 12 horizontal inches apart to protect from contamination. We discussed the following strategies for storing children’s personal belongings: purchase additional cubbies that can be mounted to the wall in Space #1, add additional hooks on the walls and place them at least 18 inches apart to ensure each child’s belongings are protected from contamination, and/or add solid barriers in between the hooks to prevent the items from touching. Orientation: Staff qualifications and training requirements are essential for adults who interact with and teach children. These requirements protect children in child care facilities by ensuring these facilities provide a physically safe and healthy environment where the developmental needs of children are being met and where children are cared for by qualified staff. Each staff person shall receive 16 hours of orientation within the first 6 weeks of employment. Six of the hours are required to be completed within the first two weeks of employment. Staff should not sign and date their orientation forms until the required 16 hours of orientation have been completed. The signature date should not be earlier than the completion date of orientation. Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred regarding the two-component star rated license process and hold harmless process in effect on May 15, 2024. I stated to B. McNeill, “When a child care center operating under hold harmless undergoes a change of ownership, the consultant will use previous points achieved from the facilities last star rated license assessment to assign a star rating at the end of the temporary license. The new owner will be expected to go through a star rated license reassessment during the cohort year established under the previous facility license. On June 28, 2024, the Governor signed Senate Bill 425 (now Session Law 2024-34), Health and Human Services Omnibus Bill, which includes the Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) Modifications recommended to the Legislature by the NC Child Care Commission to update QRIS and create additional pathways for licensed child care facilities to earn star rated licenses. Hold Harmless provisions have been extended and star rated license assessments for licensed child care providers will be conducted by provider request only, until the QRIS rulemaking process has been completed. Star rated license assessments are still required for new child care programs. Indicator Month: Discussions occurred regarding the indictor month for annual compliance monitoring visits at a licensed child care facility. I informed B. McNeill when a facility becomes licensed, it is assigned an “annual compliance” month. The annual compliance month is the month in which the facility’s Temporary License was issued (May). I stated the annual compliance month does not change if the facility is issued a 2 – 5 Star License, a Provisional License, or a Probationary License. Child care consultants use the annual compliance month to determine when to schedule each facility’s annual compliance visit. Additionally, representatives of the DCDEE may visit your program at any time and must complete at least one full monitoring visit at least annually. To best support you and the children in care, our goal is to visit programs more frequently. On-going Training: The staff and training worksheets were updated during today’s visit. It is your responsibility to keep the staff and training worksheets current for the consultant to review during annual compliance visits. Reminder: After the first year of employment, the child care administrator and any staff who work with children, shall participate in on-going training activities annually. Refer to child care requirement 09.1103 for the number of required training hours based on education and experience. Visit our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for updated information regarding the child care law and rules, forms, and other pertinent information. If you have questions, please contact me at (910) 709-4168. 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: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/12/2024 Number Present: 56 Completed Date: 8/12/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 390 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:30 PM Time In: 03:30 PM Time Out: 05:00 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a second temporary time period visit. A full assessment using the Compliance Item Number Listing was completed. The previous visit was completed on July 10, 2024, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 96% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued May 1, 2024 to November 1, 2024. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brenicia McNeill and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. There are no current inspections at this time. The owner is in the process of obtaining current inspections for the change of ownership that occurred on May 1, 2024. The facility has 6 months from the issuance of the Temporary License (November 1, 2024) to obtain an approved Building, Fire, and Sanitation Inspection. B. McNeill, Administrator, and Tairence Beverly, Assistant Director, were present and assisted me during the visit. B. McNeill accompanied me during the walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas. Infants/toddlers present in Spaces #1 and #2 participated in free play and tummy time activities on the carpeted floor, slept in their assigned cribs, and chased bubbles. Mobile and nonmobile children had access to the required materials. Children played with rattles, stacking cups, soft blocks, and musical toys. The teachers interacted with the children and encouraged conversation and problem-solving. Two diapering routines were observed in Space #1. Additionally, a child was held for infant feeding. In Space #1, a bottled beverage for S.M. was labeled but not dated. In Space #2, a clear bottle with pink designs fully prepared was sitting on the counter. When the administrator asked, “Who’s bottle is this?” The teacher responded with the child’s name. The bottle was not labeled for the appropriate child or dated. When prompted, the teachers in Spaces #1 and #2 labeled and dated the bottles. In Space #1, there was a tube of Neosporin, and two packets of Tylenol stored inside the first aid kit in an unlocked cabinet above the sink. Additionally, there was a bottle of Dr. Talbot’s Mucus & Cold Relief stored in the outside pocket of a child’s grey bookbag hanging on a hook next to the exit door and a tube of Aquaphor stored inside a child’s cubby (C.B.) in Space #2, accessible to children in care. When prompted the administrator, removed the non-prescription medications from the first aid kit, book bag, and cubby, and placed them inside the locked medication box. In Space #1, the medication authorization on file to administer a topical ointment (Aquaphor) for two children (K.M. and S. N.) did not include the date of parent authorization or the length of time the authorization is valid. In Space #1, six children’s bookbags were stored on three separate hooks, causing contamination. Adequate storage space was not available for each child’s personal belongings. In Space #2, there was a plastic Walmart bag with two packs of paper plates and two packs of napkins with plastic outer wrapping stored inside a child’s cubby (D.S.), accessible to children, under three years of age. In Space #3B, there was a tube of Neosporin, and two packs of Tylenol stored inside the Red Bag hanging from a hook next to the sink, with personal care supplies and a first aid kit that staff carry outdoors with them daily. When prompted, the administrator removed the tube of Neosporin and packs of Tylenol and placed them inside the locked medication box. Children, one and two-years-old, played with fine motor materials and farm animals, stacked cups, and participated in personal care routines. After free play, they danced to music and looked at books prior to meal time. In Space #4, children, ages four and five-years-old, participated in a teacher directed art activity. They made “Super/Awesome Puppets” to use in the dramatic play and language arts areas. After the teacher directed activity, children participated in free play/choice. They manipulated puzzles, Lincoln Logs, Play Stix, and magnetic numbers. Two children, four-years-old, built with blocks and pushed vehicles on the carpeted area. In Space #6, children, two and three-years-old, listened to the story, “Pizza Day.” T. Beale, Teacher, asked open-ended questions and engaged the children in conversation. D. Lopez, Teacher, cleaned and sanitized the tables. After story time, the children washed their hands and transitioned to the tables for lunch. Lunch served was cheese pizza, sweet peas, pineapple tidbits, and milk. In Space #7, children, three-years-old, sat on the carpet and watched “Peppa Pig – Secrets” from a tablet provided by the facility. I requested to review the screen time or cumulative log. The administrator stated A. Leon was on a scheduled break and that the staff in the room did not have access to them. The screen time activity was not documented on a cumulative log or the activity plan that was reviewed. The administrator requested that T. Boone turn the tablet off and offer an alternate activity to the children. The children washed their hands and went to the tables for meal time. The cook brought the food inside the room while the children were washing their hands. After lunch, the children assisted the teachers with gathering their blankets and placing their assigned cots throughout the room for rest time. While monitoring the approved spaces, I observed peeling and flaking paint on the walls and window sills in Spaces #3B, #4, #7, and #9. There were no enrollment records for Space #3A, #5, #8, and #9. Staff and children files, and program records were monitored today. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with B. McNeill. The following violations were observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 205 Storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. Adequate storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. In Space #1, six children's bookbags with their personal items stored inside were hanging from three separate hooks. The children's personal belongings were not stored to prevent contamination. G.S. 110-91(6) 524 When children 3 years and older were in care, screen time was not used to stimulate a developmental domain; was not limited to 30 minutes a day and no more than a total of two and a half hours per week, per child; and/or was not documented on a cumulative log or the activity plan that is available for review. In Space #7, ten children, three-years-old, watched "Peppa Pig" on a tablet provided by the facility while waiting for lunch to be served. The screen time activity was not documented on a cumulative log or the activity plan that was available for review. .0510(d)(2)(A-C) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. Two bottled beverages in Spaces #1 and #2 were not dated and/or labeled for the appropriate child. When prompted, the teachers dated the bottle in Space #1 and dated and labeled the bottle for the appropriate child in Space #2. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 620 All walls and ceilings including doors and windows were not kept clean, free of visible fungal growth, and in good repair. The paint on the walls and window sills in Spaces #3B, #4, #7, and #9 was peeling and flaking. 15A NCAC 18A .2825(a) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In Spaces #1 and #3B, there was a tube of Neosporin, and two packets of Tylenol stored inside the first aid kit in an unlocked cabinet above the sink and in a Red Bag hanging on a hook next to the sink. Additionally, there was a bottle of Dr. Talbot’s Mucus & Cold Relief stored in the outside pocket of a child’s grey bookbag hanging on a hook next to the exit door in Space #1. When prompted, the administrator removed the non-prescription medications from the first aid kits and the book bag and placed them in a locked container. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In Space #2, there was a plastic Walmart bag with two packs of paper plates and two packs of napkins with plastic outer wrapping stored inside a child’s cubby, accessible to children under three years of age. .0604(q) 1065 Child care providers scheduled to work in the infant room, did not complete ITS-SIDS training within two months of employment or did not complete the training every three years. Child care administrators did not complete the ITS-SIDS training within 90 days of employment and every three years thereafter. The child care administrator did not complete the ITS-SIDS training every three years. The ITS-SIDS certification on file is dated October 19, 2020. .1102(f) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. In Space #1, the medication authorization on file to administer a topical ointment (Aquaphor) for two children, identified on the enrollment record, did not include the date of parent authorization or the length of time the authorization is valid. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) 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 violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00 p.m. on August 26, 2024, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Rhonda Blackmon Lead Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 279 Linden, NC 28356 Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance/Consultation/Reminders Specific to Today’s Visit: Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge, and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. Caregivers/teachers must be diligent in their adherence to the medication administration policy and procedures to prevent any inadvertent medication errors, which may be harmful to the child. There is always a risk that a child may have a negative reaction to a medication, and children should be monitored for serious side effects that may require an emergency response. All medicines require clear, accurate instruction and medical confirmation of the need for the medication to be given while the child is in the facility. Parents must submit signed and dated written authorization for the facility to administer their child’s medicine. Medication shall not be administered without written consent and/or expired consent. According to Sanitation Rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820 (d); Medications including prescription and non-prescription items shall be stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container and shall not be stored above food. Designated emergency medications shall be stored out of reach of children but are not required to be in locked storage. Non-prescription diaper creams and sunscreen shall be kept out of reach of children when not in use but are not required to be in locked storage. Out of reach means five feet above the finished floor. Screen time: One fact about today's society is that children are using computers, televisions, and video games more and more with little thought about the amount. Studies have shown that this increase in screen time is decreasing children's cognitive ability in some areas and is related to weight gain. With these studies, in addition to studies that conversely show that actively engaging children in a variety of activities promotes a child's development in all areas. As a reminder, screen time should be limited to 2 ½ hours per week per child, must be offered only as a free choice activity, and used to meet a developmental goal. The activity shall be documented on a cumulative log or the activity plan that is made available for review. Space/Storage Requirements: Space shall be available for proper storage of beds, cribs, mats, cots, sleeping garments, and linens as well as designated space for each child's personal belongings. Per sanitation requirement 18A .2820(E), individual cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall be provided for storage of coats, hats, or similar items. Coat hooks not in individual cubicles or lockers, shall be spaced at least 12 horizontal inches apart to protect from contamination. We discussed the following strategies for storing children’s personal belongings: purchase additional cubbies that can be mounted to the wall in Space #1, add additional hooks on the walls and place them at least 18 inches apart to ensure each child’s belongings are protected from contamination, and/or add solid barriers in between the hooks to prevent the items from touching. Orientation: Staff qualifications and training requirements are essential for adults who interact with and teach children. These requirements protect children in child care facilities by ensuring these facilities provide a physically safe and healthy environment where the developmental needs of children are being met and where children are cared for by qualified staff. Each staff person shall receive 16 hours of orientation within the first 6 weeks of employment. Six of the hours are required to be completed within the first two weeks of employment. Staff should not sign and date their orientation forms until the required 16 hours of orientation have been completed. The signature date should not be earlier than the completion date of orientation. Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred regarding the two-component star rated license process and hold harmless process in effect on May 15, 2024. I stated to B. McNeill, “When a child care center operating under hold harmless undergoes a change of ownership, the consultant will use previous points achieved from the facilities last star rated license assessment to assign a star rating at the end of the temporary license. The new owner will be expected to go through a star rated license reassessment during the cohort year established under the previous facility license. On June 28, 2024, the Governor signed Senate Bill 425 (now Session Law 2024-34), Health and Human Services Omnibus Bill, which includes the Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) Modifications recommended to the Legislature by the NC Child Care Commission to update QRIS and create additional pathways for licensed child care facilities to earn star rated licenses. Hold Harmless provisions have been extended and star rated license assessments for licensed child care providers will be conducted by provider request only, until the QRIS rulemaking process has been completed. Star rated license assessments are still required for new child care programs. Indicator Month: Discussions occurred regarding the indictor month for annual compliance monitoring visits at a licensed child care facility. I informed B. McNeill when a facility becomes licensed, it is assigned an “annual compliance” month. The annual compliance month is the month in which the facility’s Temporary License was issued (May). I stated the annual compliance month does not change if the facility is issued a 2 – 5 Star License, a Provisional License, or a Probationary License. Child care consultants use the annual compliance month to determine when to schedule each facility’s annual compliance visit. Additionally, representatives of the DCDEE may visit your program at any time and must complete at least one full monitoring visit at least annually. To best support you and the children in care, our goal is to visit programs more frequently. On-going Training: The staff and training worksheets were updated during today’s visit. It is your responsibility to keep the staff and training worksheets current for the consultant to review during annual compliance visits. Reminder: After the first year of employment, the child care administrator and any staff who work with children, shall participate in on-going training activities annually. Refer to child care requirement 09.1103 for the number of required training hours based on education and experience. Visit our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for updated information regarding the child care law and rules, forms, and other pertinent information. If you have questions, please contact me at (910) 709-4168. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0624-298L Visit Date: 7/10/2024 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 7/10/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 175 Time In: 02:20 PM Time Out: 05:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate allegations regarding violations of child care requirements. The first temporary time period visit was completed on May 15, 2024. This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued, May 1, 2024 to November 1, 2024. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brenicia McNeill and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. There are no current inspections at this time. The owner is in the process of obtaining current inspections for the change of ownership that occurred on May 1, 2024. There is a concern that staff did not interact with children in a nurturing and caring manner. B. McNeill, Administrator, and Terrence Beverly, Assistant Director, were present. B. McNeill accompanied me during the walk-through of the indoor and outdoor environments. Children and staff assigned to Spaces #1, #2, #3, #4, #6, and #7 participated in free play and teacher-directed activities indoors and ate PM snack. In Spaces #1 and #2, infants slept in their assigned cribs, were held for bottle feeding, participated in tummy time activities, and free play. Soft toys, books, rattles, and dolls were accessible to the children. In Space #3, children, ages one and two-years-old, participated in free play activities. They looked at books, stacked blocks, manipulated puzzles, shook rain sticks and musical instruments, and danced in a circle to music with N. Adams, while M. Heche completed a diapering routine. In Space #4 children, ages four and five-years-old played dressed up and cooked and cleaned in the family living area, manipulated linking stars at the table, drew and painted with red paint in the art area, and danced to music. M. McAlister walked around the classroom and assisted children as needed. Children appeared to be happy and familiar with their routine, staff, and learning environment. There was no enrollment record for Space #5. Children assigned to Spaces #6 and #7 awoke from their nap/rest time and participated in personal care routines and PM snack. PM snack served was applesauce, banana muffin, and water. No one was present in Space #8. Enrollment information was collected. The allegation listed above was discussed with administrative staff. Based on specific information in the report, I interviewed five (5) staff members. During interviews conducted today, it was reported: • Administrative staff stated that they are not aware of any concerns related to staff not interacting with children in a nurturing and caring manner. The administrator stated she has not received a concern and/or complaint from a parent or anyone else in over a month. Additionally, there is an open AN investigation that was initiated by Stacey Eaton, Investigations Consultant, on June 6, 2024. The only other concern that has been brought to our attention is the air conditioner not working properly in Space #3. • The air conditioner in Space #3 was not working properly during the week of May 27-May 31, 2024. Management was informed about the temperature in the room. Staff monitored the temperature in the classroom to ensure the temperature did not exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Thermometers were hung on the walls of side A and B as well as a thermostat on side A. The thermostat was set at 65 degrees and was reading 70 degrees. After a week of inconsistency with the readings captured on the thermometers and thermostat, a work order was submitted to Corporate on June 4, 2024. It was reported that the temperature in Space #3 was 82 degrees. Additionally, it was reported that parents were concerned as well as staff. The temperature in the room was uncomfortable and the children were fussy and not sleeping. Electric fans were brought into the room and placed on side A and the exit doors (Side A and Side B) to the interior of the building were left open to assist with ventilation. Management and staff requested that parents provide an extra change of clothing and to dress their children in lighter clothing until the air conditioner is repaired. The air conditioner was repaired on June 5, 2024. During today’s visit, the temperature in the building was 70-72 degrees. • The Assistant Director stated that the facility is short-staffed. We are in the process of interviewing potential employees today. During the past month, we have experienced staff reporting off work at the last minute. In order to maintain compliance with staff/child ratio requirements: o Administrative staff work in a classroom until another staff member is available. o If ratios and group size permit, children are transitioned to another classroom. o As a last resort, parents are asked to wait with their child until ratios can be met. • The Director and Assistant Director explained to me that there is a Company Policy pertaining to transitions and that management is present during transitions from one space to another. I reviewed information in program records. One new staff member was employed since the last visit completed on May 15, 2024. Their personnel and medical files were monitored today. Based on my observation, and information gathered from the interviews conducted, the allegations that staff did not interact with children in a nurturing and caring manner is unsubstantiated. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with B. McNeill. The following violation was observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One staff member, identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not have a medical report on file prior to employment (July 2, 2024) that was signed by a health care professional. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. The violation observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violation observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00 p.m. on July 24, 2024, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail how and when the violation was corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Rhonda Blackmon Lead Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 279 Linden, NC 28356 Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: We discussed the following: Safe Environment: Every day millions of children attend early care and education programs. It is critical that they have the opportunity to grow and learn in healthy and safe environments with caring and professional caregivers/teachers. Children from day one shall have the opportunity to grow and develop appropriately, to thrive in healthy and safe environments, and to develop healthy and safe behaviors that will last a lifetime. An organized, comprehensive approach to injury prevention and control is necessary to ensure that a safe environment is provided for children in child care. Such an approach requires written plans, policies, procedures, and record-keeping so that there is consistency over time and across staff and an understanding between parents/guardians and caregivers/teachers about concerns for, and attention to, the safety of children. Nurture/Care Treatment: Child Care Requirement 09.1802 states that staff shall interact with children in positive ways by helping them feel welcome and comfortable, treating them with respect, listening to what they say, responding to them with acceptance and appreciation, and participating in activities with the children. For example, staff shall: (1) make eye contact when speaking to a child; (2) engage children in conversation to share experiences, ideas, and opinions; (3) help children develop problem-solving skills; and (4) facilitate learning by providing positive reinforcement, encouraging efforts, and recognizing accomplishments. Conversation with adults is one of the main channels through which children learn about themselves, others, and the world in which they live. While adults speaking to children teach the children facts and relays information, the social and emotional communications and the atmosphere of the exchange are equally important. The future development of the child depends on his/her command of language. Research suggests that language experiences in a child’s early years have a profound influence on that child’s language and vocabulary development, which in turn has an impact on future school success. The richness of the child’s language increases as it is nurtured by verbal interactions and learning experiences with adults and peers. Basic communication with parents/guardians and children requires an ability to speak their language. Discussing the impact of actions on feelings for the child and others helps to develop empathy. There should be an abundance of positive, nurturing interactions with children, staff, and parents. During today’s visit, there was no evidence that staff did not interact with children in a nurturing and caring manner. As a reminder, I informed administrative staff that staff are to provide a nurturing and caring environment for all children. When staff are overwhelmed, frustrated, and/or tired, a break should be provided so they can step away from the group/children. I encouraged the staff to let administrative staff know when they become frustrated or on edge and may need to take a break away from the children. The DCDEE Regulatory System was down; therefore, I was unable to key the visit summary into the system. A handwritten visit summary was completed and left with you today. A typed visit summary will be completed, and a copy emailed to you within two business days. Please visit DCDEE’s website for the latest child care updates at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. If you have questions, please contact me at: (910)709-4168. 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: Childcare Network #109 Facility ID: 26002597 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0624-298L Visit Date: 7/10/2024 Number Present: 59 Completed Date: 7/10/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 175 Time In: 02:20 PM Time Out: 05:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate allegations regarding violations of child care requirements. The first temporary time period visit was completed on May 15, 2024. This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued, May 1, 2024 to November 1, 2024. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Brenicia McNeill and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. There are no current inspections at this time. The owner is in the process of obtaining current inspections for the change of ownership that occurred on May 1, 2024. There is a concern that staff did not interact with children in a nurturing and caring manner. B. McNeill, Administrator, and Terrence Beverly, Assistant Director, were present. B. McNeill accompanied me during the walk-through of the indoor and outdoor environments. Children and staff assigned to Spaces #1, #2, #3, #4, #6, and #7 participated in free play and teacher-directed activities indoors and ate PM snack. In Spaces #1 and #2, infants slept in their assigned cribs, were held for bottle feeding, participated in tummy time activities, and free play. Soft toys, books, rattles, and dolls were accessible to the children. In Space #3, children, ages one and two-years-old, participated in free play activities. They looked at books, stacked blocks, manipulated puzzles, shook rain sticks and musical instruments, and danced in a circle to music with N. Adams, while M. Heche completed a diapering routine. In Space #4 children, ages four and five-years-old played dressed up and cooked and cleaned in the family living area, manipulated linking stars at the table, drew and painted with red paint in the art area, and danced to music. M. McAlister walked around the classroom and assisted children as needed. Children appeared to be happy and familiar with their routine, staff, and learning environment. There was no enrollment record for Space #5. Children assigned to Spaces #6 and #7 awoke from their nap/rest time and participated in personal care routines and PM snack. PM snack served was applesauce, banana muffin, and water. No one was present in Space #8. Enrollment information was collected. The allegation listed above was discussed with administrative staff. Based on specific information in the report, I interviewed five (5) staff members. During interviews conducted today, it was reported: • Administrative staff stated that they are not aware of any concerns related to staff not interacting with children in a nurturing and caring manner. The administrator stated she has not received a concern and/or complaint from a parent or anyone else in over a month. Additionally, there is an open AN investigation that was initiated by Stacey Eaton, Investigations Consultant, on June 6, 2024. The only other concern that has been brought to our attention is the air conditioner not working properly in Space #3. • The air conditioner in Space #3 was not working properly during the week of May 27-May 31, 2024. Management was informed about the temperature in the room. Staff monitored the temperature in the classroom to ensure the temperature did not exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Thermometers were hung on the walls of side A and B as well as a thermostat on side A. The thermostat was set at 65 degrees and was reading 70 degrees. After a week of inconsistency with the readings captured on the thermometers and thermostat, a work order was submitted to Corporate on June 4, 2024. It was reported that the temperature in Space #3 was 82 degrees. Additionally, it was reported that parents were concerned as well as staff. The temperature in the room was uncomfortable and the children were fussy and not sleeping. Electric fans were brought into the room and placed on side A and the exit doors (Side A and Side B) to the interior of the building were left open to assist with ventilation. Management and staff requested that parents provide an extra change of clothing and to dress their children in lighter clothing until the air conditioner is repaired. The air conditioner was repaired on June 5, 2024. During today’s visit, the temperature in the building was 70-72 degrees. • The Assistant Director stated that the facility is short-staffed. We are in the process of interviewing potential employees today. During the past month, we have experienced staff reporting off work at the last minute. In order to maintain compliance with staff/child ratio requirements: o Administrative staff work in a classroom until another staff member is available. o If ratios and group size permit, children are transitioned to another classroom. o As a last resort, parents are asked to wait with their child until ratios can be met. • The Director and Assistant Director explained to me that there is a Company Policy pertaining to transitions and that management is present during transitions from one space to another. I reviewed information in program records. One new staff member was employed since the last visit completed on May 15, 2024. Their personnel and medical files were monitored today. Based on my observation, and information gathered from the interviews conducted, the allegations that staff did not interact with children in a nurturing and caring manner is unsubstantiated. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with B. McNeill. The following violation was observed: Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One staff member, identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not have a medical report on file prior to employment (July 2, 2024) that was signed by a health care professional. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. The violation observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violation observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00 p.m. on July 24, 2024, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail how and when the violation was corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Rhonda Blackmon Lead Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 279 Linden, NC 28356 Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Facility Specific TA/Consultation/Reminders: We discussed the following: Safe Environment: Every day millions of children attend early care and education programs. It is critical that they have the opportunity to grow and learn in healthy and safe environments with caring and professional caregivers/teachers. Children from day one shall have the opportunity to grow and develop appropriately, to thrive in healthy and safe environments, and to develop healthy and safe behaviors that will last a lifetime. An organized, comprehensive approach to injury prevention and control is necessary to ensure that a safe environment is provided for children in child care. Such an approach requires written plans, policies, procedures, and record-keeping so that there is consistency over time and across staff and an understanding between parents/guardians and caregivers/teachers about concerns for, and attention to, the safety of children. Nurture/Care Treatment: Child Care Requirement 09.1802 states that staff shall interact with children in positive ways by helping them feel welcome and comfortable, treating them with respect, listening to what they say, responding to them with acceptance and appreciation, and participating in activities with the children. For example, staff shall: (1) make eye contact when speaking to a child; (2) engage children in conversation to share experiences, ideas, and opinions; (3) help children develop problem-solving skills; and (4) facilitate learning by providing positive reinforcement, encouraging efforts, and recognizing accomplishments. Conversation with adults is one of the main channels through which children learn about themselves, others, and the world in which they live. While adults speaking to children teach the children facts and relays information, the social and emotional communications and the atmosphere of the exchange are equally important. The future development of the child depends on his/her command of language. Research suggests that language experiences in a child’s early years have a profound influence on that child’s language and vocabulary development, which in turn has an impact on future school success. The richness of the child’s language increases as it is nurtured by verbal interactions and learning experiences with adults and peers. Basic communication with parents/guardians and children requires an ability to speak their language. Discussing the impact of actions on feelings for the child and others helps to develop empathy. There should be an abundance of positive, nurturing interactions with children, staff, and parents. During today’s visit, there was no evidence that staff did not interact with children in a nurturing and caring manner. As a reminder, I informed administrative staff that staff are to provide a nurturing and caring environment for all children. When staff are overwhelmed, frustrated, and/or tired, a break should be provided so they can step away from the group/children. I encouraged the staff to let administrative staff know when they become frustrated or on edge and may need to take a break away from the children. The DCDEE Regulatory System was down; therefore, I was unable to key the visit summary into the system. A handwritten visit summary was completed and left with you today. A typed visit summary will be completed, and a copy emailed to you within two business days. Please visit DCDEE’s website for the latest child care updates at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. If you have questions, please contact me at: (910)709-4168. 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