Huckleberry'S Friends Preschool AND Child Care

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: HUCKLEBERRY'S FRIENDS PRESCHOOL AND CHILD CARE Facility ID: 9255299 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 5/26/2026 Number Present: 67 Completed Date: 5/26/2026 Age: From 0 To 7 Total Minutes: 170 Time In: 10:30 AM Time Out: 01:20 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to inspect the facility for compliance with child care requirements during your annual compliance visit. The center currently operates with a 5 STAR rated license. The center is approved for 122 children ages 0-12. My visit was conducted with Joyce Shepherd, Administrator. During today’s visit an assessment of Child Care Requirements was conducted, inspecting all space used by children. During today’s visit I verified on the NC Secretary of State website that the owner of the facility, Huckleberry’s Friends, Inc. is listed as current-active as of 5-26-26. Upon arrival to the program today, the children were observed participating in morning activities and some were outside playing on the playground. I monitored all space used by the children during my visit. We discussed today that on playground #2, there are raised wooden planter boxes and the end pieces are decayed and splintering. As a result of the boards falling off and being removed, it left nails exposed which are hazardous to the children. The raised beds will need to be repaired or removed ASAP. A spot check was conducted on six new staff files. Staff and training worksheets were not ready for submission so we discussed to finish them and send to me no later than Friday, May 29, 2026. Criminal background check qualification letters were current and on file for all staff as verified by the ABCMS database. A spot check was conducted on five children’s files and observed to be in compliance. I inspected the facilities posted information such as the license, EMC plan, emergency telephone numbers, staff/ratio sheets, allergy lists, etc. Fire drills, EPR drills and outdoor playground inspections were monitored and observed to be in compliance. The last fire drill was conducted on 5-15-26 and the last EPR drill was conducted on 3-30-26. Don’t forget that another EPR drill is due by 6-30-26 in order to remain in compliance. The most recent fire inspection was conducted on 10-8-25. The most recent Sanitation inspection was conducted on 10-1-25. *****Violations: One violation regarding safety was observed and must be corrected. The corrective action letter stating how each violation was corrected is due to me no later than June 9, 2026 and can be e-mailed or mailed to me to the address at the bottom of this report. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. on playground #2, I observed raised wooden planter boxes and the end pieces are decayed and splintering. As a result of the boards falling off and being removed, it left nails exposed which are hazardous to the children. The raised beds will need to be repaired or removed ASAP. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) QRIS: We discussed the program is working on preparations for having the ERS conducted as a piece of application for rated license via pathway #1, Program Assessment. Ms. Shepherd stated they have had a delay in preparations due to a large amount of staffing turnover but they have hired a Program Specialist who will be starting soon and the primary responsibility of the Program Specialist is to work with the classrooms and all required paperwork. Some things to remember in order for you to maintain your 5 STAR license are below. You must meet enhanced ratios and it is optional to meet enhanced space. Family & Community Engagement Standards – In order to maintain your 5 STARS, you will meet the minimum requirements and you will need to choose four additional options. Continuous Quality Improvement Plans (CQI) – Each staff member as well as the facility will need to complete these. Environment rating scales will be conducted and you must have an average score of 4.0 for ITERS-3 and ECERS-3. We discussed to keep in mind there will probably be a backlog for requests so prepare accordingly and send me the request form (Environment Rating Scale Assessment request form when you are ready to have them ordered. A Program Assessment Self Study using the applicable ERS must be completed for all classrooms. You must have an approved curriculum. Make sure all staff have submitted all transcripts and have established WORKS accounts. You will need to have an overall 5 stars for Lead Teachers and an overall 5 stars for “other” staff which includes, Administration, Teacher Assistants and any other staff involved with the caregiving of the children. Please feel free to call me with questions. Contact me with questions at: Kim.Wimberly@dhhs.nc.gov 919-819-9387 http://ncchildcaresearch.dhhs.state.nc.us 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 .2703 · Violation

Name of Operation: HUCKLEBERRY'S FRIENDS PRESCHOOL AND CHILD CARE Facility ID: 9255299 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/28/2025 Number Present: 70 Completed Date: 1/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 12:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit was to monitor child care requirements during a routine unannounced visit. Today’s visit was conducted with Emily Sauls, Owner/Co-Administrator. I reviewed the NC Secretary of State’s website and the owner of the facility, Huckleberry’s Friends, Inc. is listed as current-active as of 1-28-25. Program requirements The following items were observed posted: first aid poster, 5 STAR license, no smoking sign, summary of the law and emergency care plan. The indoor environment was monitored for safety. Daily arrival and departure times of the children are documented on a clipboard in each classroom. All space used by the children were adequately heated and cooled. An incident log is stored in the Director’s office. The last fire inspection conducted is current and a copy if attached to this report . The last Sanitation inspection was conducted on 4-5-24. The last documented outdoor playground inspection was December 2024. Fire drills and EPR drills were current and on file. The last fire drill was conducted on 12-31-24 and the last EPR drill was conducted on 12-16-24. Staff Records: I monitored nine new staff files who were hired since July 2024 during my visit today. We discussed that one staff member had a staff medical report dated 7-15-25. Please have the staff member contact the medical office where this was conducted and have the date corrected and a revised copy placed in the staff file. We also discussed that one staff member had taken a SIDS class from an unapproved trainer. I explained to you that this staff member cannot work any shifts in the infant room until a new SIDS class has been taken from an approved trainer. Criminal background qualifying letters were current and on file for all staff. You do have a few staff who need to renew their criminal background qualifying letters for 2025 so I encourage you to make notes as a reminder so these do not go delinquent. Staff/Child Ratios and Supervision: During today's visit I observed the children playing in centers and some were having circle time. The Infants were being changed and having tummy time. Supervision was observed being maintained. Staff/child ratios and space capacity were observed to be in compliance. Medications and Hazardous Products: All hazardous products were either locked up or placed out of reach of the children. Classroom Observations: Today I observed an unlocked lower cabinet in the area behind the changing table in the Infant room (space 104). There were disposable gloves and trash bags observed being stored in this unlocked cabinet making them accessible to the children who were crawling around behind the changing table. The Infant teacher stated the lock was broken. I discussed with the staff member that until a lock can be added, the gloves and trash bags need to be removed. I also observed in space 103A which is also an Infant room, there were two baby bottles in the refrigerator which were labeled with the child’s name but not dated. There was also no documentation of sleep checks on file for any of the Infants age 0-12 months on file for 1-27-25. The staff member stated to me that none of the children age 0-12 months took naps yesterday, 1-27-25. I explained to the staff member that on days when children do not take naps, writing “no nap” on the safe sleep chart will provide proof for documentation purposes. We also discussed that there was one infant observed napping during my visit today but there was no safe sleep documentation for that child. Three items of non compliance regarding safe environment, safe sleep practices and nutrition were observed and must be corrected. A correction letter stating how each violation was corrected is due to me no later than February 11, 2025. The letter can be mailed or e-mailed to me at the address at the bottom of this report. Violation Number Comment Rule 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 bottles of milk were labeled but not dated which were located in one of the infant room refrigerators. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(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. There was a cabinet in one of the infant rooms which had a broken lock in which plastic bags and gloves were being stored. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. There was no documentation on file for the infant who was observed napping during my visit today. There was also no documentation of sleep checks on file for any of the Infants age 0-12 months on file for 1-27-25. .0606(g) During my visit today, I observed a very strong “sewage” smell in space 102 where the two year olds were being cared for. Ms. Sauls stated that about two months ago, a staff member spilled a mop bucket of water on a Friday and did not alert the staff and the water sat in the carpet over the weekend and became stagnant. Ms. Sauls stated that they have had the carpets cleaned a couple of times in an effort to clear out the smell. We discussed today that I suggested to contact a plumber to evaluate the septic lines underneath the classroom to rule out any plumbing issues. The smell is unpleasant for the staff and children to have to smell during the day while at the center. Technical Assistance: *Caring for infants and toddlers is very fast paced. More than one teacher should work in the classroom for infants. Primary caregivers should be assigned to each infant and toddler. Responsive primary caregivers buffer stress and help the infant or toddler regulate. The Program for Infant/Toddler Care recommends six essential program practices as a framework for relationship-based care. One of these practices is primary caregiving—the practice in which the care of each infant or toddler is assigned to one specific caregiver who is principally responsible for caring for that child in the care setting and communicating with the child’s family. Consistent, responsive, and meaningful interactions with a primary caregiver build a child’s attachment with a familiar adult. Primary caregiving also strengthens relationships with families, which, in turn, supports the development of trust and security between the infant or toddler and the primary caregiver. Diaper changing, tummy time, feedings and napping (safe sleep checks) are maintained more easily such as assuring all bottles brought from home are labeled and dated rather than multiple teachers trying to manage all of the infants/toddlers in their care. See rule reference. .0511 (3)(4). *It is very important to always document that infants are placed on their back when being placed in their crib for nap time, unless there is a Written Waiver on file, signed by the child’s parent/legal guardian. This includes if the infant rolls onto their tummy or side when being placed down for nap. By documenting tummy or side when the infant is being placed in the crib for the first time, the care giver is stating they purposefully placed the infant on their tummy or side when placing them in the crib for nap time. Sleep checks should tell a clear story of how the infant was initially placed in the crib when going down for nap and the time the infant went down for nap, each position the infant was observed in during each sleep check conducted by the infant room staff, and when the infant woke up. I suggested that if an infant does not nap on any given day, that the infant room staff document on their safe sleep chart, “NO NAP”, on that specific day or if an infant is absent on any given day that the staff record absent on the day. *There is a free training on the MOODLE platform on the DCDEE website titled “Infant Toddler Teacher Orientation” (revised.) I encourage all of your staff who care for infants and toddlers to take this on demand class to refresh their skills. REMINDERS: * Linking Criminal Background Checks – Staff need to log into the Criminal Background Check Portal on the DCDEE website and link to the facility license number. It is important to do this so staff at DCDEE can contact the center if a random criminal history check uncovers a staff member with a criminal charge or conviction working in a child care facility. It is also a way to for staff at the CBC Unit to keep you updated of the status of out-of-state checks if a new employee has a Provisional Qualification. Instructions on how to link to the facility was provided today. In the future, new staff need to link within five days of hire or transfer to your center. Review Criminal History Record Check Requirements for Child Care Centers in the NC Child Care Requirements 10A NCAC 09 .2703. Please feel free to call me if you have any questions regarding your report. Kim Wimberly PO BOX 609 Knightdale,NC 27545 919-819-9387 Kim.Wimberly@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 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: HUCKLEBERRY'S FRIENDS PRESCHOOL AND CHILD CARE Facility ID: 9255299 Consultant: PAMELIA CARMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0724-100A Visit Date: 7/12/2024 Number Present: 58 Completed Date: 7/12/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 03:00 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. Vickie Price, staff member accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Emily Sauls, director and additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On July, 3, 2024, a staff member held a bottle in the mouth of a crying infant. On July 29, 2024, a staff member failed to secure an infant in a highchair and the tray on the highchair resulting in the infant falling from the highchair to the floor. In September 2024, a child injured their hand on a nail sticking from the fence on the playground. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 872 Appropriate discipline practices were not followed. A staff member put a five-year-old child in time out for an extended period of time. .1803 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. On January 24, 2024, two staff members engaged in a verbal altercation and used profanity in the presence of children. A staff member failed to respond appropriately to a crying child. G.S. 110-91(10) 904 Child was handled roughly. On July 3, 2024, a staff member lifted a six-month old infant from the floor by the arm and carried the infant to another area in the classroom. A staff member grabbed a three-year-old child by the arm resulting in a scratch to the child's arm. A staff member sat a five-year-old child in a chair in an aggressive manner. .1803(a)(1) 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. A staff member caring for infants failed to maintain a valid ITS-SIDS training certification. .1102(f) 1810 There was a substantiation of child maltreatment. On December 3, 2024, the Division substantiated maltreatment based on the failure to meet the physical needs of children. GS 110-105.6(a) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk. A staff member put their leg across a child's legs to prevent the child from getting up from a chair. .1803(a)(10) You may contact me Pamelia Carmon, Investigations Consultant at 919-280-2252, or pamelia.carmon@dhhs.nc.gov or Sheronda Harris, Investigations Supervisor at Sheronda.harris@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

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: HUCKLEBERRY'S FRIENDS PRESCHOOL AND CHILD CARE Facility ID: 9255299 Consultant: PAMELIA CARMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0724-100A Visit Date: 7/12/2024 Number Present: 58 Completed Date: 7/12/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 03:00 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. Vickie Price, staff member accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Emily Sauls, director and additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On July, 3, 2024, a staff member held a bottle in the mouth of a crying infant. On July 29, 2024, a staff member failed to secure an infant in a highchair and the tray on the highchair resulting in the infant falling from the highchair to the floor. In September 2024, a child injured their hand on a nail sticking from the fence on the playground. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 872 Appropriate discipline practices were not followed. A staff member put a five-year-old child in time out for an extended period of time. .1803 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. On January 24, 2024, two staff members engaged in a verbal altercation and used profanity in the presence of children. A staff member failed to respond appropriately to a crying child. G.S. 110-91(10) 904 Child was handled roughly. On July 3, 2024, a staff member lifted a six-month old infant from the floor by the arm and carried the infant to another area in the classroom. A staff member grabbed a three-year-old child by the arm resulting in a scratch to the child's arm. A staff member sat a five-year-old child in a chair in an aggressive manner. .1803(a)(1) 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. A staff member caring for infants failed to maintain a valid ITS-SIDS training certification. .1102(f) 1810 There was a substantiation of child maltreatment. On December 3, 2024, the Division substantiated maltreatment based on the failure to meet the physical needs of children. GS 110-105.6(a) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk. A staff member put their leg across a child's legs to prevent the child from getting up from a chair. .1803(a)(10) You may contact me Pamelia Carmon, Investigations Consultant at 919-280-2252, or pamelia.carmon@dhhs.nc.gov or Sheronda Harris, Investigations Supervisor at Sheronda.harris@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 110-105 · Violation

Name of Operation: HUCKLEBERRY'S FRIENDS PRESCHOOL AND CHILD CARE Facility ID: 9255299 Consultant: PAMELIA CARMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0724-100A Visit Date: 7/12/2024 Number Present: 58 Completed Date: 7/12/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 03:00 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. Vickie Price, staff member accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Emily Sauls, director and additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On July, 3, 2024, a staff member held a bottle in the mouth of a crying infant. On July 29, 2024, a staff member failed to secure an infant in a highchair and the tray on the highchair resulting in the infant falling from the highchair to the floor. In September 2024, a child injured their hand on a nail sticking from the fence on the playground. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 872 Appropriate discipline practices were not followed. A staff member put a five-year-old child in time out for an extended period of time. .1803 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. On January 24, 2024, two staff members engaged in a verbal altercation and used profanity in the presence of children. A staff member failed to respond appropriately to a crying child. G.S. 110-91(10) 904 Child was handled roughly. On July 3, 2024, a staff member lifted a six-month old infant from the floor by the arm and carried the infant to another area in the classroom. A staff member grabbed a three-year-old child by the arm resulting in a scratch to the child's arm. A staff member sat a five-year-old child in a chair in an aggressive manner. .1803(a)(1) 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. A staff member caring for infants failed to maintain a valid ITS-SIDS training certification. .1102(f) 1810 There was a substantiation of child maltreatment. On December 3, 2024, the Division substantiated maltreatment based on the failure to meet the physical needs of children. GS 110-105.6(a) 1877 A child was restrained as a form of discipline and the child's safety or the safety of others was not at risk. A staff member put their leg across a child's legs to prevent the child from getting up from a chair. .1803(a)(10) You may contact me Pamelia Carmon, Investigations Consultant at 919-280-2252, or pamelia.carmon@dhhs.nc.gov or Sheronda Harris, Investigations Supervisor at Sheronda.harris@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: HUCKLEBERRY'S FRIENDS PRESCHOOL AND CHILD CARE Facility ID: 9255299 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/10/2024 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 7/10/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 10:25 AM Time Out: 12:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor child care requirements during an annual compliance follow up visit. Today’s visit was conducted with Tiffany Dunston, Assistant Director. Upon arrival to the center, the children were observed playing in centers and preparing for lunch. The infants were being changed and having tummy time. Staff/child ratios and supervision were monitored and observed to be in compliance. Capacity did not exceed that which was allowed. During my visit, I observed that two of the four violations which were observed out of compliance during an annual compliance visit conducted on 6-16-24 pertaining to a missing section of the outdoor playground fence (item # 824) and surfacing not meeting the required depth (item # 1867) have not been corrected as of today’s visit. On 7-2-24, I reached out to the center due to the fact that the corrective action letter from violations observed during the annual compliance visit on 6-18-24 which was due on 7-2-24 had not been received. On 7-3-24, an e-mail addressing violations from the visit on 6-18-24 was received from Tiffany Dunston, Assistant Director. I did observe that the corrective action letter did not indicate enough information indicating that violation numbers 824 and 1867 were corrected. On 7-5-24, I sent an e-mail to the facility that the correction letter received on 7-3-24 did not meet the requirements to prove correction of violations. I also indicated in the e-mail dated 7-3-24 that if an extension is needed to allow time for corrections, I would need to know in writing so that approval can be sent forward. Based on the fact that no further communication was given from the facility, a follow up visit was conducted. Let it also be documented that a request for extension request was e-mailed to me on 7-10-24 at 9:04 a.m. but it was not received due to the fact, I had left the office and was traveling to facilities. This request has been requested after the deadline for the corrective action letter on 7-2-24. I also monitored a sample of staff files based on missing information from the Staff and Training worksheets which were submitted to me. I did observe that the Owner/Director did not have a current ITS-SIDS class on file. This is a violation of child care requirements. Three violations, two of which were repeat violations, regarding safety, surfacing and SIDS were observed during my visit today. A corrective action letter stating how each violation was corrected is due to me no later than 7-24-24. Each violation must be addressed individually and please remember to put the facility name and ID number on the letter. The correction letter can be e-mailed (kim.wimberly@dhhs.nc.gov) or mailed to PO Box 609, Knightdale, NC 27545. If violations are not corrected within the timeframe, an administrative action may be taken against your license. Please note for future reference that when emergencies arise, please reach out to me to discuss other alternatives and this will assist with any confusion. Violation Number Comment Rule 824 Outdoor play area was not enclosed by fence with a minimum height of 4 feet. The top of the fence, less than six feet, was not free from protrusions. During today's visit, I observed the portion of the fence that was missing on 6-18-24 still has not been repaired. This is a repeat violation. GS 110-91(6); .0605((i) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. I observed during today's visit that the surfacing which was observed out of compliance on 6-18-24 still has not been corrected. This is a repeat violation. .0605(k)(1-4) Please feel free to call me if you have any questions at 919-819-9387. 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: HUCKLEBERRY'S FRIENDS PRESCHOOL AND CHILD CARE Facility ID: 9255299 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/18/2024 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 6/18/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to inspect the facility for compliance with child care requirements during your annual compliance visit. The last annual compliance was conducted on 7-6-23. The center currently operates with a 5 STAR rated license. The center is approved for 122 children ages 0-12. My visit was conducted with Tiffany Dunston, Co-Director. During today’s visit an assessment of Child Care Requirements was conducted, inspecting all space used by children. Prior to today’s visit, I checked the NC Secretary of State’s Office and the owner of the facility, Huckleberry Friends, Inc. is listed as current active as of 6-17-24. Upon arrival to the program today, the children were observed participating in various activities and some were outside playing. The four and five year old classroom was preparing to leaving for a field trip to the movies. The Infants were having tummy time. Sleeping baby checks were monitored for all Infants age 0-12 months and were observed to be in compliance. Staff/child ratios and supervision were observed in compliance. Space capacity did not exceed that which is allowed. I reminded Ms. Dunston today that there is an Infant room that is separated into two groups and to remind staff that they cannot exceed capacity on either side of the classroom based on the fact that both sides have been merged together due to low staffing. Ms. Dunston stated she is aware and understands. Program records were monitored and observed to be in compliance. Fire drills, EPR drills, and Outdoor Playground Inspections were all current and on file. The last fire drill was conducted on 5-20-24. The last EPR drill was conducted on 6-11-24. The most recent revision date for the EPR Plan was May 2024. The last fire inspection was conducted on 10-6-23. The last Sanitation inspection was conducted on 4-5-24 and a Superior rating was awarded with 12 demerits. The incident log is kept in the Director’s office. A spot check was conducted on ten children’s files and all were observed to be in compliance. Four new staff are new since my last visit and a spot check was conducted on those files and observed to be in compliance. Staff and Training worksheets were not ready to be submitted to me during the visit today. Please finish them and submit back to me via e-mail no later than Friday, June 21, 2024. For outside time, the children play in fenced areas. There are two separate fenced playgrounds and the children are divided up based on ages. We discussed that on playground #1, I observed a large portion of the fence that faces Lawndale Street estimated to be about 10 feet wide that was missing. Ms. Dunston stated that there has been some fallen tree cleanup and the company who was hired for the cleanup had to remove a portion of the fence to get their equipment inside the fence. Ms. Dunston stated the fence has been down for about a week. As we discussed, this is a safety concern for the children. This playground accommodates the Infants, Toddlers and Two year olds who do not understand about safety at this stage of their life. We discussed that a temporary border must be placed up immediately in order for the children to continue to play on this playground. Ms. Dunston stated that they have been keeping the children on the opposite side of the playground as a precaution to keep the children away from that portion of the fence. If you do temporarily use playground #2, precautions will have to be made to make the large climber inaccessible to the children due to their age. On playground #2, we discussed items of non compliance which also must be corrected. There are two plastic orange couches which were heavily mildewed and on one couch there was a large amount of standing water. Standing water promotes pests and all standing water should be emptied prior to children coming out to play. This is part of daily playground inspections which are required. There is a dome geoclimber that is sitting too close to the fence and must be moved. There is one board on the wooden fence that is bowed out and needs to be hammered back so that over time it does not allow children to climb through and get outside of the fence. We also discussed there is a very large tree branch hanging very low to the ground that needs to be trimmed back. As we discussed, it is low enough that if a tall child is running and not paying attention, it could be a safety concern and cause them to fall. Mulch needs to be added under the small climber meeting the required depth of surfacing. Though the mulched area appears to be deep, the areas of high impact, such as under the slides and rock wall do not meet requirements. Today I dug around these areas and dirt was the only layer I observed. I also observed heavy mildew on most of the outdoor toys. I observed that on the May outdoor playground inspection, it was indicated that new mulch is needed but as of today’s date, this task has not been completed. Outside toys need to be deep cleaned. There are raised bed gardens on the playground with various types of plants including cucumbers. I reminded you today that staff will need to closely monitor children to make sure that when bees are pollinating these plants that the children understand to be cautious around the bees. I love that you do have a mini garden and it is a great science experience for the children! Lastly, we discussed that there is a toy on the playground that should only be used under supervision. There is a portable toy that has hard plastic stepping boxes which is connected by rope. We discussed that from previous research it was a warning on this toy that due to the rope being a potential choking hazard, it should only be used with supervision of adult. Please remove this toy from the playground. As stated earlier, the four and five year old class was departing from the center on a field trip. I observed the children being transported in a Ford van with license plate VPW 4336. License plate is valid until November 2024. Insurance information for the transportation vehicle is current and on file at the center as well as in the vehicle. I observed the children board the van and a member of Administration assisted with loading the children. Each child’s name was called to enter the van and there was a teacher on the van buckling the children in. All children were observed sitting in booster seats which parents brought for their child. A final headcount of children was conducted prior to the van doors closing and the van leaving the center. Two staff were present on the van with eleven children. Additionally, one parent volunteer was driving in a separate vehicle and transported their own child. We discussed that the children were going to see the movie “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” which is a PG movie. We discussed that new law went into effect on 1-1-24 stating that when children watch movies, it is important to decide if the movies are developmentally appropriate. GS 110-91(12) requires facilities to provide developmentally appropriate activities. Per Child Care Rule .0102(12), “Developmentally appropriate” means suitable to the chronological age range and development characteristics of a specific age group of children. Since a PG rated movie may not be suitable for children, PG movies are not an appropriate option for screen time. If you choose to watch movies with a PG rating, parental approval would be required prior to the children viewing the movie. Due to the fact that permission was not obtained prior to the children departing for the movie, this is a violation of child care requirements. Ms. Dunston stated that the parents are made aware of which movie the children would be watching prior to the field trip but they do not have permission on file but would work on that effective today. *****Violations: Four (4) violations of child care requirements regarding safety, sanitation, developmentally appropriate off premise activities were observed during my visit today. A corrective action letter stating how each violation was corrected is due to me no later than July 2, 2024 and can be e-mailed or mailed to me at the contact information at the end of this report. Please remember to address each violation individually and indicate your center name and ID number. Violation Number Comment Rule 419 Activities and allotted times reflected in the schedule were not developmentally appropriate for the children in care. The four and five year old class went on a field trip to the movies to see the movie "Teenage Mutant Teenage Turtles" which is rated PG and considered not developmentally appropriate for the age group involved. Permission from each child's parent/guardian was not on file. GS 110-91(12) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. Water was standing on a large plastic couch on playground #2 during my visit today. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 824 Outdoor play area was not enclosed by fence with a minimum height of 4 feet. The top of the fence, less than six feet, was not free from protrusions. A portion of the back side of the fence facing Lawndale Street on playground #1 was observed missing during my visit today. GS 110-91(6); .0605((i) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. The mulch surfacing underneath the large climber on playground #2 did not meet the required depth. .0605(k)(1-4) Reminders: As we begin to transition back to rated license reassessments, please begin to prepare for your facility now so you are better prepared. Make sure all staff have established accounts in WORKS and if there are any staff who have taken coursework, get those original transcripts submitted to DCDEE to be evaluated. Your facility is in Cohort #2 which means your “Prep Year” is July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025 and your actual assessment year is July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026. Contact me with questions at: Kim.Wimberly@dhhs.nc.gov PO BOX 609 Knightdale, NC 27545 919-819-9387 http://ncchildcaresearch.dhhs.state.nc.us 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: HUCKLEBERRY'S FRIENDS PRESCHOOL AND CHILD CARE Facility ID: 9255299 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0224-254L Visit Date: 2/27/2024 Number Present: 64 Completed Date: 2/27/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit today was to investigate complaint allegations regarding Infant Care pertaining to feeding schedules and diaper changing procedures. Today’s visit was conducted with Emily Sauls, Owner/Administrator and Tiffany Dunston, Assistant Director. During my visit today, I reviewed the NC Secretary of State’s website and the owner of the facility, Huckleberry’s Friends, Inc. is listed as current-active as of 2-27-24. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the indoor environment were monitored during my visit today and observed to be in compliance. The license and emergency care plan were posted. Storage of hazardous products was monitored and observed to be in compliance. The children were observed doing morning activities and some classrooms were outside playing. The Infants were having tummy time and being fed. There was one Infant observed napping in a crib. Sleeping baby checks were monitored and observed to be in compliance. Arrival and departure times of all children are documented on clipboards and stored in each classroom. I discussed the allegations with Ms. Sauls and Ms. Dunston and the findings are below. Allegation #1 - There is a concern that an infant's feeding schedule was not followed. During my visit today, all feeding schedules for children ages 0-15 months were monitored and no instances were observed where feeding schedules were not followed. I observed a dry erase board in these classrooms which served as a reminder to staff as to when each child was due for their next meal/snack and then the center uses daily sheets to record meals, snacks and diaper changes. Feeding schedules were observed posted and current for all children age 0-15 months old. Staff in the Infant room were interviewed and stated to me that if they attempt to feed a child a bottle but child either refuses to eat or doesn’t finish the bottle, staff will take a break for about 15 minutes and attempt to feed the child again. If on the second attempt the child still refuses to eat, the formula/milk is poured out. I did observe an instance today in which an Infant stopped drinking their bottle. The Infant was observed to be mildly congested and appeared to be having difficulty eating. Staff attempted to burp the Infant and them attempted again to feed the Infant the remainder of the bottle. The child refused the bottle and fell asleep so the staff member placed the Infant on their back in a crib to sleep. Based on the fact that there was no proof showing feeding schedules were not followed nor was this lapse observed during my visit, this allegation is unsubstantiated. Allegation #2 -There is a concern that proper diaper changing procedures were not followed in the classroom for one-year-old children. During my visit today, two diaper changes were observed in the one year old classroom and I did not observe any violations of child care requirements. Based on my observations today, this allegation is unsubstantiated. We discussed today that even though the allegations were found to be unsubstantiated, I did observe some additional items which are violations of child care requirements. There were two children observed on the floor playing with toys in the Infant Room. I observed two different children mouth a pink/purple baby rattle and green plastic grapes but staff did not remove the toys after the children put down the toys. I observed the pink/purple rattle mouthed by three separate children. We discussed that staff must be reminded to remove mouthed toys from the play area to be sanitized and how important this is in the spread of germs. This is a violation of child care requirements. In the Infant Room, I observed an infant diaper change and the Infant’s hands were not washed with soap and water at the end of the diaper change. I did observe the staff member use a wipe on the child’s hands but we discussed that as long as the child can hold their head up, handwashing with soap and water must occur at the sink. The staff member did spray the changing table and washed with a soapy solution but then received a tray of food from Kitchen staff without washing their hands after the diaper change. A second child was observed having a diaper change and the child was placed in a high chair to eat and I did not observe the child’s hands washed after the diaper change. Staff member did wash their hands after the 2nd diaper change and spray the diaper changing table with a solution but I did not observe all the proper diaper changing techniques followed. A child arrived to the Infant Room during my observation and the child’s parent placed the child in the swing in the classroom. While in the swing, I observed the child spit up on their bib and a staff member who was feeding another child in the highchair cleaned up the spit up and put the bib in the dirty clothes bin and then sat back down to finish feeding the child in the high chair without washing their hands after handling and cleaning up the spit up. This is a violation of child care requirements. Lastly, during my observation in the Infant Room, I observed a child who was awake in a crib right beside a high chair. The staff member sprayed the high chair to clean it prior to feeding another child. Due to the fact that the crib where a child was waking up from a nap in and the solution that staff sprayed to clean the highchair which was sitting directly beside the crib, the overspray is a lung/eye irritant for the child who was in the crib. This is a violation of child care requirements regarding safe environment. Five violations of child care requirements regarding handwashing, safe environment, and healthy practices and reduction of the spread of germs were observed. A corrective action letter stating how each violation was corrected is due to me no later than March 12, 2024 and can be mailed or e-mailed to me at the address at the end of this report. Please remember to address each violation individually and to indicate your facility name and ID number. Violation Number Comment Rule 404 All staff did not wash their hands thoroughly after diapering each child. I observed three occurrences of staff not washing their hands in the Infant Room during my visit. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(a) 405 A child's hands were not washed after each diaper change. Two children's hands were not washed after diaper changes in the Infant Room. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c)(2) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. I observed a pink/purple rattle and green plastic grapes mouthed at least by two children in the Infant Room but were not removed from the play area. .2822(a)(1-4) 619 Diaper changing surfaces were not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after each use. Two instances of diaper changing procedures were observed out of compliance in the Infant classroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Cleaning solution was sprayed on a high chair while a child was in a crib located right beside the chair being cleaned. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) We also discussed other observations which were concerns and ways which could be modified for best practice. *Today I observed a child arrive to the center in the Infant Room and placed in a swing by the child’s parent. The child remained in the swing for an estimated period of 20 minutes and then when child cried, was placed in an exersaucer for the remainder of my classroom observation. Please remind staff the importance of tummy time. We also discussed that I observed overuse of the bouncy seat, swing and exersaucer. These furnishings should not be used as a primary form of entertainment for non mobile children. *I observed minimal toys accessible to the children in the Infant classroom. We discussed today that for non mobile children, placing a variety of toys in front of the children for them to play with and for those that can sit up, placing a variety of toys in bins and placing bins in front of the children. This will also assist with “overuse” of bouncy seats, swings and exersaucers. *While I did observe caregiver interactions to be warm, I observed very little stimulation in the Infant Room. Staff were observed sitting on floor with children but little stimulation was observed and very little occurrences of promoting language development. *When staff are feeding children, it is still important to foster communication during the meal times. I observed an Infant being fed a bottle by a staff member but I only observed one instance of communication with the child during the feeding. I also observed during this feeding that the staff member was paying such little attention to the Infant while feeding, that they did not realize for 3 minutes that the child had fallen asleep and stopped drinking the bottle. While it is important to continue supervision of other children during bottle feedings, it is also important to communicate and interact with the child being fed. *I also observed an Infant laid in a crib to nap after being fed. The child began to cry and cried for a period of eleven minutes. We discussed that self soothing is a great technique to work on with children but when children are visibly upset, it is developmentally appropriate to go to the child and attempt to soothe them as well. The Infant did not stop crying so after eleven minutes, a staff member did get the child out of the crib and rock the child. Ms. Sauls asked today if daily sheets sent home to parents are required for child care centers. We discussed that communication between parents and staff members should occur daily so that the staff member is aware of any concerns the parent has as well as the staff member reporting any concerns and any details of the child's day to the child's parents. It is not a requirement that paper sheets be given to parents reporting all specific details of a child's day but I will again state that at a minimum verbal communication should be occurring regularly between the center staff and the child's parents or guardians. Ms. Sauls also inquired as to if they are required to wake up sleeping children for feeding and diaper changes. We discussed that you are required to follow the feeding schedules for all children ages 0-15 months old but if a child is napping during what would be a designated feeding time, it is not a requirement to wake the child up from nap. As we discussed, if a child is taking an unusually long nap and poses other concerns, it is best practice to communicate with the child's parent/guardian. Technical Assistance: We discussed today that I will be contacting resources from Child Care Services Association for some one on one help for the staff in the Infant Room in regards to handwashing, interactions and promoting stimulation play with the children. I will keep you posted with the details of who will be calling you. 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. . Please feel free to call me with questions. Kim Wimberly PO Box 609 Knightdale, NC 27545 919-819-9387 Kim.Wimberly@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: HUCKLEBERRY'S FRIENDS PRESCHOOL AND CHILD CARE Facility ID: 9255299 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0224-254L Visit Date: 2/27/2024 Number Present: 64 Completed Date: 2/27/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 285 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit today was to investigate complaint allegations regarding Infant Care pertaining to feeding schedules and diaper changing procedures. Today’s visit was conducted with Emily Sauls, Owner/Administrator and Tiffany Dunston, Assistant Director. During my visit today, I reviewed the NC Secretary of State’s website and the owner of the facility, Huckleberry’s Friends, Inc. is listed as current-active as of 2-27-24. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the indoor environment were monitored during my visit today and observed to be in compliance. The license and emergency care plan were posted. Storage of hazardous products was monitored and observed to be in compliance. The children were observed doing morning activities and some classrooms were outside playing. The Infants were having tummy time and being fed. There was one Infant observed napping in a crib. Sleeping baby checks were monitored and observed to be in compliance. Arrival and departure times of all children are documented on clipboards and stored in each classroom. I discussed the allegations with Ms. Sauls and Ms. Dunston and the findings are below. Allegation #1 - There is a concern that an infant's feeding schedule was not followed. During my visit today, all feeding schedules for children ages 0-15 months were monitored and no instances were observed where feeding schedules were not followed. I observed a dry erase board in these classrooms which served as a reminder to staff as to when each child was due for their next meal/snack and then the center uses daily sheets to record meals, snacks and diaper changes. Feeding schedules were observed posted and current for all children age 0-15 months old. Staff in the Infant room were interviewed and stated to me that if they attempt to feed a child a bottle but child either refuses to eat or doesn’t finish the bottle, staff will take a break for about 15 minutes and attempt to feed the child again. If on the second attempt the child still refuses to eat, the formula/milk is poured out. I did observe an instance today in which an Infant stopped drinking their bottle. The Infant was observed to be mildly congested and appeared to be having difficulty eating. Staff attempted to burp the Infant and them attempted again to feed the Infant the remainder of the bottle. The child refused the bottle and fell asleep so the staff member placed the Infant on their back in a crib to sleep. Based on the fact that there was no proof showing feeding schedules were not followed nor was this lapse observed during my visit, this allegation is unsubstantiated. Allegation #2 -There is a concern that proper diaper changing procedures were not followed in the classroom for one-year-old children. During my visit today, two diaper changes were observed in the one year old classroom and I did not observe any violations of child care requirements. Based on my observations today, this allegation is unsubstantiated. We discussed today that even though the allegations were found to be unsubstantiated, I did observe some additional items which are violations of child care requirements. There were two children observed on the floor playing with toys in the Infant Room. I observed two different children mouth a pink/purple baby rattle and green plastic grapes but staff did not remove the toys after the children put down the toys. I observed the pink/purple rattle mouthed by three separate children. We discussed that staff must be reminded to remove mouthed toys from the play area to be sanitized and how important this is in the spread of germs. This is a violation of child care requirements. In the Infant Room, I observed an infant diaper change and the Infant’s hands were not washed with soap and water at the end of the diaper change. I did observe the staff member use a wipe on the child’s hands but we discussed that as long as the child can hold their head up, handwashing with soap and water must occur at the sink. The staff member did spray the changing table and washed with a soapy solution but then received a tray of food from Kitchen staff without washing their hands after the diaper change. A second child was observed having a diaper change and the child was placed in a high chair to eat and I did not observe the child’s hands washed after the diaper change. Staff member did wash their hands after the 2nd diaper change and spray the diaper changing table with a solution but I did not observe all the proper diaper changing techniques followed. A child arrived to the Infant Room during my observation and the child’s parent placed the child in the swing in the classroom. While in the swing, I observed the child spit up on their bib and a staff member who was feeding another child in the highchair cleaned up the spit up and put the bib in the dirty clothes bin and then sat back down to finish feeding the child in the high chair without washing their hands after handling and cleaning up the spit up. This is a violation of child care requirements. Lastly, during my observation in the Infant Room, I observed a child who was awake in a crib right beside a high chair. The staff member sprayed the high chair to clean it prior to feeding another child. Due to the fact that the crib where a child was waking up from a nap in and the solution that staff sprayed to clean the highchair which was sitting directly beside the crib, the overspray is a lung/eye irritant for the child who was in the crib. This is a violation of child care requirements regarding safe environment. Five violations of child care requirements regarding handwashing, safe environment, and healthy practices and reduction of the spread of germs were observed. A corrective action letter stating how each violation was corrected is due to me no later than March 12, 2024 and can be mailed or e-mailed to me at the address at the end of this report. Please remember to address each violation individually and to indicate your facility name and ID number. Violation Number Comment Rule 404 All staff did not wash their hands thoroughly after diapering each child. I observed three occurrences of staff not washing their hands in the Infant Room during my visit. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(a) 405 A child's hands were not washed after each diaper change. Two children's hands were not washed after diaper changes in the Infant Room. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c)(2) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. I observed a pink/purple rattle and green plastic grapes mouthed at least by two children in the Infant Room but were not removed from the play area. .2822(a)(1-4) 619 Diaper changing surfaces were not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after each use. Two instances of diaper changing procedures were observed out of compliance in the Infant classroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Cleaning solution was sprayed on a high chair while a child was in a crib located right beside the chair being cleaned. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) We also discussed other observations which were concerns and ways which could be modified for best practice. *Today I observed a child arrive to the center in the Infant Room and placed in a swing by the child’s parent. The child remained in the swing for an estimated period of 20 minutes and then when child cried, was placed in an exersaucer for the remainder of my classroom observation. Please remind staff the importance of tummy time. We also discussed that I observed overuse of the bouncy seat, swing and exersaucer. These furnishings should not be used as a primary form of entertainment for non mobile children. *I observed minimal toys accessible to the children in the Infant classroom. We discussed today that for non mobile children, placing a variety of toys in front of the children for them to play with and for those that can sit up, placing a variety of toys in bins and placing bins in front of the children. This will also assist with “overuse” of bouncy seats, swings and exersaucers. *While I did observe caregiver interactions to be warm, I observed very little stimulation in the Infant Room. Staff were observed sitting on floor with children but little stimulation was observed and very little occurrences of promoting language development. *When staff are feeding children, it is still important to foster communication during the meal times. I observed an Infant being fed a bottle by a staff member but I only observed one instance of communication with the child during the feeding. I also observed during this feeding that the staff member was paying such little attention to the Infant while feeding, that they did not realize for 3 minutes that the child had fallen asleep and stopped drinking the bottle. While it is important to continue supervision of other children during bottle feedings, it is also important to communicate and interact with the child being fed. *I also observed an Infant laid in a crib to nap after being fed. The child began to cry and cried for a period of eleven minutes. We discussed that self soothing is a great technique to work on with children but when children are visibly upset, it is developmentally appropriate to go to the child and attempt to soothe them as well. The Infant did not stop crying so after eleven minutes, a staff member did get the child out of the crib and rock the child. Ms. Sauls asked today if daily sheets sent home to parents are required for child care centers. We discussed that communication between parents and staff members should occur daily so that the staff member is aware of any concerns the parent has as well as the staff member reporting any concerns and any details of the child's day to the child's parents. It is not a requirement that paper sheets be given to parents reporting all specific details of a child's day but I will again state that at a minimum verbal communication should be occurring regularly between the center staff and the child's parents or guardians. Ms. Sauls also inquired as to if they are required to wake up sleeping children for feeding and diaper changes. We discussed that you are required to follow the feeding schedules for all children ages 0-15 months old but if a child is napping during what would be a designated feeding time, it is not a requirement to wake the child up from nap. As we discussed, if a child is taking an unusually long nap and poses other concerns, it is best practice to communicate with the child's parent/guardian. Technical Assistance: We discussed today that I will be contacting resources from Child Care Services Association for some one on one help for the staff in the Infant Room in regards to handwashing, interactions and promoting stimulation play with the children. I will keep you posted with the details of who will be calling you. 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. . Please feel free to call me with questions. Kim Wimberly PO Box 609 Knightdale, NC 27545 919-819-9387 Kim.Wimberly@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