10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: DISCOVERY PLACE CHILD CARE CENTER INC Facility ID: 71000155 Consultant: SHEREEN PICKETT Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/25/2024 Number Present: 74 Completed Date: 9/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 11:00 AM 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 during a routine unannounced visit. The program currently operates with a Three Star License, issued April 10, 2018, earning 4 points in Staff Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 quality point for choosing a Programmatic Option. Restrictions on the permit include daytime care only, serving children with an age range from 0-12 and first shift capacity of 93. According to the Secretary of State’s website, Discovery Place Child Care Center, Inc. is current and active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted by Child Care Consultant Tammy Ross on February 14, 2024. Prior to today’s visit, the facility’s eighteen-month compliance history was 90%. Fire Inspection – 01/10/2024 – Approved for daytime care only Sanitation – 06/03/2024 – Superior classification Administrator, Samantha Liles, was present and available for consultation. Owner/Operator, Samantha Daughtry was also present today. Six classrooms are operating with eighty-five children enrolled and seventy-four children present. All children were appropriately supervised. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules were available for each group of children. Infants in space 2 received care based on their individual needs. Infant feeding charts are current and up to date and safe sleep charts are being maintained. Children in spaces 1, 4 and 5 were observed during free play, accessing a variety of age-appropriate materials. Children in spaces 3 and 6 were engaged in morning group time. Morning snack consisted of waffles and milk. Lunch planned for the day consisted of chicken nuggets, baked beans, apple sauce, and milk. The following violations were observed and must be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 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 spaces 3 and 6, a smart screen was being used during morning group time activities without documentation on a cumulative log. .0510(d)(2)(A-C) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Four protruding bolts were observed on the plastic border of the preschool playgrouond. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. On or before October 04, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to me at Shereen.Pickett@dhhs.nc.gov. It must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance related to violations cited: Today I suggested that you review Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0510 regarding screen time. If you choose to provide screen time at your facility, you must ensure that it is used to meet a developmental goal, that it is limited to 30 minutes per day and that the time is documented, and that free choice activities are offered for children not participating. I shared with you that screen time is also prohibited for children under the age of three years old.. Four protruding bolts were observed on the plastic border on the preschool playground. I suggest that you check them on a regular basis to determine if they need to be pushed back down in the ground. Protrusions are considered safety hazards as children may trip over them or fall on them. Bolts should be hammered down flush with the border. Reminders: A shelter-in place drill is due in September. The sandbox on the toddler playground should remain covered when not in use. The grass on the toddler playground is long in certain spots. Due to recent rain, it has been a challenge to keep grass maintained. Ensure the grass on that playground is trimmed/ maintained as soon as possible. E. Penrod, hired on July 31, 2024, must complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment before or by October 31, 2024. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed, signed and a copy was left with you. Feel free to reach me with questions/ concerns at (910) 508-3228 or Shereen.pickett@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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0510 · Violation

Name of Operation: DISCOVERY PLACE CHILD CARE CENTER INC Facility ID: 71000155 Consultant: SHEREEN PICKETT Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/25/2024 Number Present: 74 Completed Date: 9/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 11:00 AM 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 during a routine unannounced visit. The program currently operates with a Three Star License, issued April 10, 2018, earning 4 points in Staff Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 quality point for choosing a Programmatic Option. Restrictions on the permit include daytime care only, serving children with an age range from 0-12 and first shift capacity of 93. According to the Secretary of State’s website, Discovery Place Child Care Center, Inc. is current and active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted by Child Care Consultant Tammy Ross on February 14, 2024. Prior to today’s visit, the facility’s eighteen-month compliance history was 90%. Fire Inspection – 01/10/2024 – Approved for daytime care only Sanitation – 06/03/2024 – Superior classification Administrator, Samantha Liles, was present and available for consultation. Owner/Operator, Samantha Daughtry was also present today. Six classrooms are operating with eighty-five children enrolled and seventy-four children present. All children were appropriately supervised. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules were available for each group of children. Infants in space 2 received care based on their individual needs. Infant feeding charts are current and up to date and safe sleep charts are being maintained. Children in spaces 1, 4 and 5 were observed during free play, accessing a variety of age-appropriate materials. Children in spaces 3 and 6 were engaged in morning group time. Morning snack consisted of waffles and milk. Lunch planned for the day consisted of chicken nuggets, baked beans, apple sauce, and milk. The following violations were observed and must be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 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 spaces 3 and 6, a smart screen was being used during morning group time activities without documentation on a cumulative log. .0510(d)(2)(A-C) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Four protruding bolts were observed on the plastic border of the preschool playgrouond. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. On or before October 04, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to me at Shereen.Pickett@dhhs.nc.gov. It must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Technical Assistance related to violations cited: Today I suggested that you review Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0510 regarding screen time. If you choose to provide screen time at your facility, you must ensure that it is used to meet a developmental goal, that it is limited to 30 minutes per day and that the time is documented, and that free choice activities are offered for children not participating. I shared with you that screen time is also prohibited for children under the age of three years old.. Four protruding bolts were observed on the plastic border on the preschool playground. I suggest that you check them on a regular basis to determine if they need to be pushed back down in the ground. Protrusions are considered safety hazards as children may trip over them or fall on them. Bolts should be hammered down flush with the border. Reminders: A shelter-in place drill is due in September. The sandbox on the toddler playground should remain covered when not in use. The grass on the toddler playground is long in certain spots. Due to recent rain, it has been a challenge to keep grass maintained. Ensure the grass on that playground is trimmed/ maintained as soon as possible. E. Penrod, hired on July 31, 2024, must complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment before or by October 31, 2024. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed, signed and a copy was left with you. Feel free to reach me with questions/ concerns at (910) 508-3228 or Shereen.pickett@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: DISCOVERY PLACE CHILD CARE CENTER INC Facility ID: 71000155 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0424-144L Visit Date: 4/18/2024 Number Present: 68 Completed Date: 4/18/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 105 Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to investigate a report alleging violations of child care requirements. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Owner/Administrator, Samantha Daughtry, was present and available for consultation. Staff/child ratios for all spaces were in compliance. There are eighty children enrolled and sixty-eight children, ages 0-5, were today. During today’s visit, all children were supervised. There were no issues related to supervision of children observed. Infants received care based on their individual needs and all preschool children were observing nap/rest time. Covered mats with blankets were appropriately spaced, lights were off, and soft music played making it conducive to sleeping/resting. The allegations of this report were specific to the classroom for two/three-year-old children. It was discussed with Ms. Daughtry and caregiver for two/three-year-old classroom, Jaelyn Eason. You were both given the opportunity to state your perceptions of the allegation and to share any pertinent information Staff/Child Ratio for classroom for two/three-year-old children – 3 caregivers: 18 children The following allegation was discussed: Allegation - There are concerns that a child was not adequately supervised. During today’s visit, Ms. Daughtry and Ms. Eason admitted that on April 9, 2024, a three-year-old child ran out of the classroom into the hallway. Ms. Eason stated she was assisting children with art at the table when a three-year-old child was dropped off by her mother. As the mother signed the child in and walked down the hallway - the three-year-old child ran out of the classroom behind her, calling for her mama. Ms. Eason stated a teacher who was present in the hallway stopped the child and brought her back to the classroom. Ms. Daughtry confirmed this information as she was also present in the hallway area when this incident occurred. Ms. Daughtry and Ms. Eason both stated the incident occurred and was resolved quickly. Since this incident occurred, Ms. Daughtry had a conference with Ms. Eason regarding the importance of supervision. Ms. Daughtry also stated that she and Administrator, Samatha Liles, review supervision rules and requirements as often as needed and during all staff meetings. I reviewed and received all the facility’s information signed by all staff members regarding their responsibility when supervising children. This information included the job description and information in staff handbook. This facility does not have cameras. Based on my investigation, staff interviews, observations and information received, this allegation is substantiated. All children must be properly supervised, indoors, and outdoors, at all times. Adequate supervision means that staff interact with the children while moving about the indoor and outdoor area, and are always able to hear and/or see the children. For pre-school age children, the operator shall always be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize his or her ability to hear and see the children and render immediate assistance. For school-age children, the operator shall be positioned in the indoor and outdoor environment to maximize his or her ability to hear or see the children at all times and render immediate assistance. During transitions, staff must account for all children with name-to-face recognition by visually identifying each child. Staff also use their knowledge of each child's development and abilities to anticipate what they will do, then get involved and redirect them when necessary. On top of check-in and check-out procedures, centers need a system tracking children throughout the day. This is done by simply performing a name to face count at regular intervals. Teachers must actually see and match each child’s face to their name on their check-in sheet in order to make sure this count is accurate. These counts should be performed at regular intervals but are especially important during transitions such as going outside. The importance of child tracking procedures should be emphasized during onboarding and during continuing education for teachers. By implementing and following these simple procedures childcare staff can keep track of all the children in their care throughout the day. Ensure all children are visually supervised. Supervision is basic to safety and the prevention of injury and maintaining quality child care. The importance of supervision is not only to protect children from physical injury, but from harm that can occur from teasing/bullying/inappropriate topics discussed or inappropriate behavior. Active and positive supervision involves knowing each child’s abilities, establishing clear and simple safety rules, being aware of potential hazards, standing in strategic positions, and scanning play areas and circulating around the space. I also recommend you arrange training on supervision for all staff members. The following violation was cited today. The violation must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required. Remember it is your responsibility to ensure you comply with all applicable child care requirements. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. On April 9, 2024, a 3-year-old child ran out of the classroom into the hallway and was stopped by another teacher who was in hallway. .1801(a)(1-5) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. On or before May 2, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected as well as how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. It must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Violations of this nature directly impact the safety of the children while in your care. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your program. Based on a Substantiated complaint, a follow-up visit will be conducted. In addition, an administrative action may be issued. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed, printed, and signed by the administrator. You may contact me, Tammy Ross, Child Care Consultant, at 910-824-1143 or Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: DISCOVERY PLACE CHILD CARE CENTER INC Facility ID: 71000155 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/14/2024 Number Present: 64 Completed Date: 2/14/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 145 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM 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 during your annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Child Care Consultant, April Bosse, accompanied and assisted me with this visit. The program currently operates with a Three Star License, issued April 10, 2018, earning 4 points in Staff Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 quality point for choosing a Programmatic Option. Restrictions on the permit include Daytime care only, serving children with an age range from 0-12 and first shift capacity of 93. As of February 9, 2024, according to the Secretary of State’s website, Discovery Place Child Care Center, Inc. is current and active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on February 22, 2023. The facility’s 18-month compliance history is 95%. Fire Inspection – 01/10/2024 – Approved for daytime care only – Satisfactory Sanitation Inspection – 10/31/2023 - 12 Demerits – Superior Administrator, Samantha Liles, was present and available for consultation. Owner/Operator, Samantha Daughtry was also present today. Six classrooms are operating with ninety-one children enrolled and sixty-four children present. All children were appropriately supervised. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules were available for each group of children. Infants received care based on their individual needs. Infant feeding charts are current and up to date and safe sleep charts are being maintained. During today’s visit, infants in Space 2 were observed sleeping in appropriate cribs, playing with materials on the floor, crawling around exploring their environment or engaged in routine care. Toddlers in Spaces 1 were engaged in free choice activities such as blocks, books, and push and play manipulatives. Two-year-old children in Space 4 were outside in the outdoor play area sliding down slides and swinging on swings. Three-year-old children in Spaces 6 were engaged in group time identifying letters with magnets and talking about books. Preschool children in Space 5 were engaged in activity areas with magnetic tiles, coloring boards, and drawing with markers. Lunch for today consisted of chicken nuggets, applesauce, baked beans, and milk. There were two violations observed today; violations were corrected during the visit. Continued compliance with all applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in Space 2 or in Space 3. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 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. Bottles in Space 2 were not dated with today's date. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(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. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Comments regarding violations cited: Activity Plans in Spaces 2 and 3 were not current. During the visit, you located the written plan for Space 2 and posted it in the classroom. The activity plan for Space 3 was written during the visit and posted. This violation was corrected during the visit. Today we discussed that all classrooms should have a current schedule and activity plan for each group of children posted for reference by parents and by caregivers. For each group of children in care, the activity plan shall include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development. Infant Bottles - Today bottles in Space 2 were not labeled with today’s date. All human milk, formula, and other bottled beverages, including beverages in sippy cups, that are sent from home shall be fully prepared and labeled with the date received at the child care center and the name of the child to whom the milk, formula, or beverage belongs before being brought to the child care center. During today’s visit, the teachers labeled any bottles missing the date received. This violation was corrected during the visit. Other Information: A director’s meeting will be held via Zoom on February 20, 2024, from 9:30am-11:30am. Refer to your invite for additional information. Rated License Information - Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due to be completed in April 2021. DCDEE has developed a 3-Cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. You are in Cohort 1. We will be working together through this process, and I will provide guidance along the way. Reassessments will not become mandatory again until July 1, 2024, and your facility has been placed into “Cohort 1.” Placement in this cohort means you will have from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, to plan and prepare for your reassessment, with your reassessment being due between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. In your planning year, you may review resources available at www.ncrlap.org and contact Smart Start of Pender County or Region 4 CCR&R for assistance with completion of the self-study component of the environment rating scales. Your planning year is an opportunity for you to focus on the quality of your program as well as consider strategies to help maintain or increase your star rating. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you hire new staff or as staff complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is maintained at all times, so you must ensure you monitor staff qualifications and percentages in advance of your upcoming reassessment. Health & Safety Training - Staff members, who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Ensure this information is maintained on file. New staff are in the process of completing these trainings. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Rules - Child Care Rules were revised July 1, 2023, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Sanitation rules were also readopted July 1, 2023. I strongly urge you to review the training information at https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/op-training.htm and contact Children’s Environmental Health Services with any questions. Lead Testing – This facility completed their retest in June 2023. As defined under G.S. 110-86(7), facilities shall test, at least once every three years, all outlets used for drinking or food preparation. You will need to register your next test with Clean Water for Carolina Kids online at https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. Be sure to send your results to me when they are received. Documentation was completed on site, reviewed electronically, signed, and emailed to you. Remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with 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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

G.S. 110-86 · Violation

Name of Operation: DISCOVERY PLACE CHILD CARE CENTER INC Facility ID: 71000155 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/14/2024 Number Present: 64 Completed Date: 2/14/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 145 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM 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 during your annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Child Care Consultant, April Bosse, accompanied and assisted me with this visit. The program currently operates with a Three Star License, issued April 10, 2018, earning 4 points in Staff Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 quality point for choosing a Programmatic Option. Restrictions on the permit include Daytime care only, serving children with an age range from 0-12 and first shift capacity of 93. As of February 9, 2024, according to the Secretary of State’s website, Discovery Place Child Care Center, Inc. is current and active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on February 22, 2023. The facility’s 18-month compliance history is 95%. Fire Inspection – 01/10/2024 – Approved for daytime care only – Satisfactory Sanitation Inspection – 10/31/2023 - 12 Demerits – Superior Administrator, Samantha Liles, was present and available for consultation. Owner/Operator, Samantha Daughtry was also present today. Six classrooms are operating with ninety-one children enrolled and sixty-four children present. All children were appropriately supervised. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules were available for each group of children. Infants received care based on their individual needs. Infant feeding charts are current and up to date and safe sleep charts are being maintained. During today’s visit, infants in Space 2 were observed sleeping in appropriate cribs, playing with materials on the floor, crawling around exploring their environment or engaged in routine care. Toddlers in Spaces 1 were engaged in free choice activities such as blocks, books, and push and play manipulatives. Two-year-old children in Space 4 were outside in the outdoor play area sliding down slides and swinging on swings. Three-year-old children in Spaces 6 were engaged in group time identifying letters with magnets and talking about books. Preschool children in Space 5 were engaged in activity areas with magnetic tiles, coloring boards, and drawing with markers. Lunch for today consisted of chicken nuggets, applesauce, baked beans, and milk. There were two violations observed today; violations were corrected during the visit. Continued compliance with all applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in Space 2 or in Space 3. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 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. Bottles in Space 2 were not dated with today's date. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(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. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Comments regarding violations cited: Activity Plans in Spaces 2 and 3 were not current. During the visit, you located the written plan for Space 2 and posted it in the classroom. The activity plan for Space 3 was written during the visit and posted. This violation was corrected during the visit. Today we discussed that all classrooms should have a current schedule and activity plan for each group of children posted for reference by parents and by caregivers. For each group of children in care, the activity plan shall include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development. Infant Bottles - Today bottles in Space 2 were not labeled with today’s date. All human milk, formula, and other bottled beverages, including beverages in sippy cups, that are sent from home shall be fully prepared and labeled with the date received at the child care center and the name of the child to whom the milk, formula, or beverage belongs before being brought to the child care center. During today’s visit, the teachers labeled any bottles missing the date received. This violation was corrected during the visit. Other Information: A director’s meeting will be held via Zoom on February 20, 2024, from 9:30am-11:30am. Refer to your invite for additional information. Rated License Information - Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due to be completed in April 2021. DCDEE has developed a 3-Cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. You are in Cohort 1. We will be working together through this process, and I will provide guidance along the way. Reassessments will not become mandatory again until July 1, 2024, and your facility has been placed into “Cohort 1.” Placement in this cohort means you will have from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, to plan and prepare for your reassessment, with your reassessment being due between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. In your planning year, you may review resources available at www.ncrlap.org and contact Smart Start of Pender County or Region 4 CCR&R for assistance with completion of the self-study component of the environment rating scales. Your planning year is an opportunity for you to focus on the quality of your program as well as consider strategies to help maintain or increase your star rating. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you hire new staff or as staff complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is maintained at all times, so you must ensure you monitor staff qualifications and percentages in advance of your upcoming reassessment. Health & Safety Training - Staff members, who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Ensure this information is maintained on file. New staff are in the process of completing these trainings. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Rules - Child Care Rules were revised July 1, 2023, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Sanitation rules were also readopted July 1, 2023. I strongly urge you to review the training information at https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/op-training.htm and contact Children’s Environmental Health Services with any questions. Lead Testing – This facility completed their retest in June 2023. As defined under G.S. 110-86(7), facilities shall test, at least once every three years, all outlets used for drinking or food preparation. You will need to register your next test with Clean Water for Carolina Kids online at https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. Be sure to send your results to me when they are received. Documentation was completed on site, reviewed electronically, signed, and emailed to you. Remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with 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: DISCOVERY PLACE CHILD CARE CENTER INC Facility ID: 71000155 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/14/2024 Number Present: 64 Completed Date: 2/14/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 145 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM 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 during your annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Child Care Consultant, April Bosse, accompanied and assisted me with this visit. The program currently operates with a Three Star License, issued April 10, 2018, earning 4 points in Staff Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 quality point for choosing a Programmatic Option. Restrictions on the permit include Daytime care only, serving children with an age range from 0-12 and first shift capacity of 93. As of February 9, 2024, according to the Secretary of State’s website, Discovery Place Child Care Center, Inc. is current and active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on February 22, 2023. The facility’s 18-month compliance history is 95%. Fire Inspection – 01/10/2024 – Approved for daytime care only – Satisfactory Sanitation Inspection – 10/31/2023 - 12 Demerits – Superior Administrator, Samantha Liles, was present and available for consultation. Owner/Operator, Samantha Daughtry was also present today. Six classrooms are operating with ninety-one children enrolled and sixty-four children present. All children were appropriately supervised. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules were available for each group of children. Infants received care based on their individual needs. Infant feeding charts are current and up to date and safe sleep charts are being maintained. During today’s visit, infants in Space 2 were observed sleeping in appropriate cribs, playing with materials on the floor, crawling around exploring their environment or engaged in routine care. Toddlers in Spaces 1 were engaged in free choice activities such as blocks, books, and push and play manipulatives. Two-year-old children in Space 4 were outside in the outdoor play area sliding down slides and swinging on swings. Three-year-old children in Spaces 6 were engaged in group time identifying letters with magnets and talking about books. Preschool children in Space 5 were engaged in activity areas with magnetic tiles, coloring boards, and drawing with markers. Lunch for today consisted of chicken nuggets, applesauce, baked beans, and milk. There were two violations observed today; violations were corrected during the visit. Continued compliance with all applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in Space 2 or in Space 3. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 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. Bottles in Space 2 were not dated with today's date. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(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. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Comments regarding violations cited: Activity Plans in Spaces 2 and 3 were not current. During the visit, you located the written plan for Space 2 and posted it in the classroom. The activity plan for Space 3 was written during the visit and posted. This violation was corrected during the visit. Today we discussed that all classrooms should have a current schedule and activity plan for each group of children posted for reference by parents and by caregivers. For each group of children in care, the activity plan shall include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development. Infant Bottles - Today bottles in Space 2 were not labeled with today’s date. All human milk, formula, and other bottled beverages, including beverages in sippy cups, that are sent from home shall be fully prepared and labeled with the date received at the child care center and the name of the child to whom the milk, formula, or beverage belongs before being brought to the child care center. During today’s visit, the teachers labeled any bottles missing the date received. This violation was corrected during the visit. Other Information: A director’s meeting will be held via Zoom on February 20, 2024, from 9:30am-11:30am. Refer to your invite for additional information. Rated License Information - Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due to be completed in April 2021. DCDEE has developed a 3-Cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. You are in Cohort 1. We will be working together through this process, and I will provide guidance along the way. Reassessments will not become mandatory again until July 1, 2024, and your facility has been placed into “Cohort 1.” Placement in this cohort means you will have from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, to plan and prepare for your reassessment, with your reassessment being due between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. In your planning year, you may review resources available at www.ncrlap.org and contact Smart Start of Pender County or Region 4 CCR&R for assistance with completion of the self-study component of the environment rating scales. Your planning year is an opportunity for you to focus on the quality of your program as well as consider strategies to help maintain or increase your star rating. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you hire new staff or as staff complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is maintained at all times, so you must ensure you monitor staff qualifications and percentages in advance of your upcoming reassessment. Health & Safety Training - Staff members, who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Ensure this information is maintained on file. New staff are in the process of completing these trainings. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Rules - Child Care Rules were revised July 1, 2023, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Sanitation rules were also readopted July 1, 2023. I strongly urge you to review the training information at https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/op-training.htm and contact Children’s Environmental Health Services with any questions. Lead Testing – This facility completed their retest in June 2023. As defined under G.S. 110-86(7), facilities shall test, at least once every three years, all outlets used for drinking or food preparation. You will need to register your next test with Clean Water for Carolina Kids online at https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. Be sure to send your results to me when they are received. Documentation was completed on site, reviewed electronically, signed, and emailed to you. Remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with 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: DISCOVERY PLACE CHILD CARE CENTER INC Facility ID: 71000155 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/14/2024 Number Present: 64 Completed Date: 2/14/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 145 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM 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 during your annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Child Care Consultant, April Bosse, accompanied and assisted me with this visit. The program currently operates with a Three Star License, issued April 10, 2018, earning 4 points in Staff Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 quality point for choosing a Programmatic Option. Restrictions on the permit include Daytime care only, serving children with an age range from 0-12 and first shift capacity of 93. As of February 9, 2024, according to the Secretary of State’s website, Discovery Place Child Care Center, Inc. is current and active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on February 22, 2023. The facility’s 18-month compliance history is 95%. Fire Inspection – 01/10/2024 – Approved for daytime care only – Satisfactory Sanitation Inspection – 10/31/2023 - 12 Demerits – Superior Administrator, Samantha Liles, was present and available for consultation. Owner/Operator, Samantha Daughtry was also present today. Six classrooms are operating with ninety-one children enrolled and sixty-four children present. All children were appropriately supervised. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules were available for each group of children. Infants received care based on their individual needs. Infant feeding charts are current and up to date and safe sleep charts are being maintained. During today’s visit, infants in Space 2 were observed sleeping in appropriate cribs, playing with materials on the floor, crawling around exploring their environment or engaged in routine care. Toddlers in Spaces 1 were engaged in free choice activities such as blocks, books, and push and play manipulatives. Two-year-old children in Space 4 were outside in the outdoor play area sliding down slides and swinging on swings. Three-year-old children in Spaces 6 were engaged in group time identifying letters with magnets and talking about books. Preschool children in Space 5 were engaged in activity areas with magnetic tiles, coloring boards, and drawing with markers. Lunch for today consisted of chicken nuggets, applesauce, baked beans, and milk. There were two violations observed today; violations were corrected during the visit. Continued compliance with all applicable child care requirements is required at all times. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not posted in Space 2 or in Space 3. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 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. Bottles in Space 2 were not dated with today's date. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(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. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Comments regarding violations cited: Activity Plans in Spaces 2 and 3 were not current. During the visit, you located the written plan for Space 2 and posted it in the classroom. The activity plan for Space 3 was written during the visit and posted. This violation was corrected during the visit. Today we discussed that all classrooms should have a current schedule and activity plan for each group of children posted for reference by parents and by caregivers. For each group of children in care, the activity plan shall include activities intended to stimulate the following developmental domains, in accordance with North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development. Infant Bottles - Today bottles in Space 2 were not labeled with today’s date. All human milk, formula, and other bottled beverages, including beverages in sippy cups, that are sent from home shall be fully prepared and labeled with the date received at the child care center and the name of the child to whom the milk, formula, or beverage belongs before being brought to the child care center. During today’s visit, the teachers labeled any bottles missing the date received. This violation was corrected during the visit. Other Information: A director’s meeting will be held via Zoom on February 20, 2024, from 9:30am-11:30am. Refer to your invite for additional information. Rated License Information - Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due to be completed in April 2021. DCDEE has developed a 3-Cohort system. There are three cohorts, and each includes a preparation year and a reassessment year. You are in Cohort 1. We will be working together through this process, and I will provide guidance along the way. Reassessments will not become mandatory again until July 1, 2024, and your facility has been placed into “Cohort 1.” Placement in this cohort means you will have from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, to plan and prepare for your reassessment, with your reassessment being due between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. In your planning year, you may review resources available at www.ncrlap.org and contact Smart Start of Pender County or Region 4 CCR&R for assistance with completion of the self-study component of the environment rating scales. Your planning year is an opportunity for you to focus on the quality of your program as well as consider strategies to help maintain or increase your star rating. Ensure all information and education has been submitted to DCDEE WORKS as you hire new staff or as staff complete additional coursework. Keep in mind, it is expected that compliance with Education standards is maintained at all times, so you must ensure you monitor staff qualifications and percentages in advance of your upcoming reassessment. Health & Safety Training - Staff members, who have been employed for at least one year, have completed Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Ensure this information is maintained on file. New staff are in the process of completing these trainings. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Rules - Child Care Rules were revised July 1, 2023, and a new rule book was posted to the DCDEE website. As discussed, you should discard any old versions of the rules and ensure you are referring to the most current rule book when reviewing or researching requirements. Sanitation rules were also readopted July 1, 2023. I strongly urge you to review the training information at https://ehs.dph.ncdhhs.gov/hhccehb/cehu/ccs/op-training.htm and contact Children’s Environmental Health Services with any questions. Lead Testing – This facility completed their retest in June 2023. As defined under G.S. 110-86(7), facilities shall test, at least once every three years, all outlets used for drinking or food preparation. You will need to register your next test with Clean Water for Carolina Kids online at https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/. Be sure to send your results to me when they are received. Documentation was completed on site, reviewed electronically, signed, and emailed to you. Remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with 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: DISCOVERY PLACE CHILD CARE CENTER INC Facility ID: 71000155 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/7/2023 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 9/7/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 90 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 11:00 AM 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 during a routine unannounced visit. The program currently operates with a Three Star License, issued April 10, 2018, earning 4 points in Staff Education, 2 points in Program Standards, and 1 quality point for choosing a Programmatic Option. Restrictions on the permit include Daytime care only, serving children with an age range from 0-12 and first shift capacity of 93. As of September 6, 2023, according to the Secretary of State’s website, Discovery Place Child Care Center, Inc. is current and active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on February 22, 2023, by Child Care Consultant Tammy Ross. The facility’s 18-month compliance history is 97%. Today’s visit was conducted by Child Care Consultant April Bosse on behalf of your Child Care Consultant Tammy Ross. Fire Inspection – 01/24/2023 – Approved for daytime care only Satisfactory Sanitation Inspection – 05/23/2023 -Superior Assistant Administrator, Danielle Jackson, was present and available for consultation. Administrator, Samantha Liles, is on maternity leave. Six classrooms are operating with eighty-one children enrolled and fifty-five children present. All children were appropriately supervised. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules were available for each group of children. Activity plans were observed posted in each classroom. Infants received care based on their individual needs. Infant feeding charts are current and up to date and safe sleep charts are being maintained. During today’s visit, infants in Space 2 were observed sleeping in appropriate cribs, playing with materials on the floor, crawling around exploring their environment, and one infant was being held by a caregiver. Toddlers in Space 1 were engaged in activity areas with puzzles, manipulatives, and blocks. Two-year-old children in Space 4 were outside on the playground engaged with slides, bikes, and swings. Preschool children in Spaces 5 and 6 were observed engaged in a variety of activities including, magna-tiles, pretending to cook and care for baby dolls, and group time reading “Ten Apples Up On Top”. Staff in all classrooms were observed interacting with children in a positive and nurturing manner. Lunch consisted of tuna with crackers, corn, pears, and milk. New staff files were monitored today and found to be in compliance. The following violations were observed today and must be corrected immediately: 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. An aerosol can of carpet cleaner was not stored in a locked storage or cabinet. .2820(b) 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 diaper cream in Space 4 had an authorization that was expired and the medication was not discarded or returned to the parent within 72 hours. .0803(12) 1835 The medical action plan was not updated on an annual basis or when changes to the plan were made by the child's parent or health care professional. One Asthma Action Plan in Space 5 was not updated on an annual basis. .0801(b) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before September 18, 2023. I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Email the information to: April Bosse, Child Care Consultant April.bosse@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance for violations cited: One diaper cream form was expired in Space 4. Diaper cream forms expire after one year of parent signature. Today I suggested marking these dates on a calendar for the teachers or on a calendar for you so that everyone can track these expiration dates without any lapse. Additionally, I suggested going through each classroom to ensure that all forms on file have a corresponding medication or cream to go along with them. Old forms no longer in use may be discarded. Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. The medical action plan for an inhaler in Space 5 was not renewed annually. The medical action plan shall be updated on an annual basis and when changes to the plan are made by the child's parent or health care professional. Today I suggested making a list of expiration dates for both the action plan and the medication administration form as these will expire at different times. Sample medical action plans may be found on the Division's website at: http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/providers Rated License Reassessment Information: Your facility’s three-year rated license reassessment was due to be completed in August 2021 but was not completed due to reassessments being voluntary during the COVID-19 pandemic. As discussed today, reassessments will not become mandatory again until July 1, 2024, and your facility has been placed into “Cohort 2.” Placement in this cohort means you have from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025 to plan and prepare for your reassessment, with your reassessment being due between July 1, 2025 and June 30, 2026. In your planning year, you may review resources available at www.ncrlap.org and contact Smart Start of Pender County or Region 4 CCR&R for assistance with completion of the self-study component. Your Child Care Consultant Tammy Ross is also available to assist you upon request. This is an opportunity to focus on your Star Rated License and consider strategies to help maintain or increase your star rating. Review topics related to the Environment Rating Scales or other quality initiatives. For example, if transitions are challenging, ask yourself what strategies help. Engage to brainstorm, offer support and clarification, and set goals. Allocate resources so you can focus on self-study as part of the workday to help you become more familiar and confident with the assessment process. Also, be reminded that you may voluntarily request a reassessment at any time by contacting Tammy Ross and that NCRLAP outreach assessments are still being offered if you wish to “practice.” You may also wish to contact technical assistance specialists with Smart Start of Pender County to help you with mock assessments. Related to education, ensure you are uploading your education. For any questions about the NC Early Childhood Equivalency exam, please contact: DCDEE.Equivalency.Exam@dhhs.nc.gov. This information can also be found on the DCDEE website (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/) under the What’s New section (https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/WhatsNew/north-carolina-early-childhood-equivalency-exam-now-available). It is vitally important that you are registered for WORKS and maintain your workforce information to support education requirements. You are responsible for ensuring that information contained in the Early Childhood Education Workforce Database is up to date and complete. Reminders: On March 13, 2023, the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-PLUS (MCCYN-PLUS) initiative launched in North Carolina to make it easier for military families to access and afford quality child care from community providers. Licensed child care facilities are now able to participate in MCCYN-PLUS based on their star rating. If you are interested in participating in the military fee assistance program, please visit: https://www.childcareaware.org/feeassistancerespite/feeassistancerespiteproviders/feeassistance/ to review the application process. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all the applicable laws and rules always whether they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed, signed and printed for you. Contact me at April Bosse, Child Care Consultant, 910-709-4196, April.bosse@dhhs.nc.gov Tammy Ross, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-1143, tammy.ross@dhhs.nc.gov or you may contact my Supervisor, Lynette Robbins, Licensing Supervisor, 910-824-0235, lynette.robbins@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .1803 · Violation

Name of Operation: DISCOVERY PLACE CHILD CARE CENTER INC Facility ID: 71000155 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0823-136L Visit Date: 8/15/2023 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 8/15/2023 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 11:45 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 unannounced visit was to investigate a report alleging violations of child care requirements. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Assistant Administrator, Danielle Jackson was present and available for consultation. Administrator, Samantha Jackson, is on maternity leave; her last day of working was yesterday, August 14, 2023. Ms. Jackson accompanied me as I visited each classroom. I visited each classroom. Staff/child ratios for all spaces were monitored and found to be in compliance. There are eighty seven enrolled and sixty six children, ages 0 – 10, were present. Infants received care based on their individual needs. Toddlers were observing nap/rest time. At nap/rest time, lights were turned off, soft music played, and covered cots with blankets were appropriately spaced. Ensure all cots are spaced at least 18 inches apart unless a solid barrier is present. Preschool children and school age children were eating lunch. Lunch consisted of turkey and cheese sandwiches, carrots, peaches, and milk. All children were adequately supervised. The allegations of this report were discussed with Assistant Administrator – Danielle Jackson and all staff present on the premises. You were each given the opportunity to state your perceptions of the allegations and to share any pertinent information. This facility does not have cameras. The following allegations were discussed today. Allegation #1 There are concerns that sanitation guidelines are not being followed. All classrooms used with the children were visited today. All environments were clean, orderly and safe for children in care. There were no sanitation issues observed. The last sanitation inspection was conducted by Pender County Environmental Health on May 23, 2023, and the facility received a superior classification. Ms. Jackson stated she prepares the disinfectant spray bottle and soapy water bottle every morning for each classroom. She also stated sanitation requirements are being met. Toys are cleaned as required. The floors are swept and mopped at the end of the day. All staff interviewed today stated they do not have any concerns regarding the cleanliness of the center. Based on my investigations, observations, and information received, this allegation is unsubstantiated. Keeping your child care facility clean is vital for the health, safety and well-being of children and you. One of the most important steps you can take to reduce the spread of germs (i.e. bacteria, viruses and fungi) is keeping your environment clean throughout the day. All floors, floor coverings, walls, ceilings, doors, windows, bathrooms, and any space used by child care children must be kept clean, sanitized, and in good repair; this helps to provide a safe and healthy environment for children as well as staff. Allegation #2 There is a concern that inappropriate discipline, including corporal punishment, was used. During today’s visit, I visited all classrooms, there were no observations of inappropriate discipline. All staff members stated they do not hit children and children are not hit by anyone at any time for any reason. They also advised they had no concerns nor have they witnessed any staff members using any inappropriate discipline, including corporal punishment. Most staff were observed interacting with children in a nurturing/caring manner and being attentive to the needs of the children in their care. Ms. Jackson advised facility’s discipline policy is reviewed with all staff upon hire. Each staff member received a copy of the discipline policy and signed a written statement confirming receipt; this information is on file for all staff. You cannot hit children. No form of corporal punishment or rough handling is ever acceptable by staff or parents. Children must not be subjected to corporal punishment by anyone at any time for any reason. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803 PROHIBITED DISCIPLINE IN CHILD CARE CENTERS states no child shall be subjected to any form of corporal punishment by the owner, operator, director, or staff of any child care center. The word discipline means to teach and guide. Discipline is not punishment. The discipline standard should reflect an approach that prevents behavior problems by supporting children in learning appropriate social skills and emotional responses. Those that work with young children should care for children without ever resorting to physical punishment or abusive language. When a child needs assistance, needs to express feelings, needs, and wants, the adult should help the child learn strategies for dealing with any situation. Modify the learning/play environment (schedule, routine, activities, transitions, etc.) to support appropriate behavior in a child. Create a predictable schedule. When a routine is predictable, children are more likely to know what to do and what is expected of them. This may decrease anxiety which may decrease acting out. Use encouragement and descriptive praise. When clear encouragement and descriptive praise are used to give attention to appropriate behaviors, those behaviors are likely to be repeated. Encouragement and praise should label the behaviors—not the child. Recognize and accept age-appropriate behaviors. Understand the stages of development in which the children in your care fall. For example, those that cry may not have the verbal ability to express their needs and/or wants or, they may not have the skills yet to do so. Based on my investigation, observations, staff interviews, and information received, this allegation is unsubstantiated. Safety starts in the classroom. Children should feel and be safe everywhere on campus—in the rest rooms, hallways, on field trips, and on the playground. Feeling safe makes learning possible. Caregivers can help a child feel safe, secure, and supported by acknowledging and responding sensitively to children's cues/signals and supporting children's secure attachment through consistent and warm nurturing relationships. One sign of a positive, respectful, and responsive relationships is that children and caregivers have a variety of meaningful interactions during their time together. There was one violation observed and documented today. This violation must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all time. Violation Number Comment Rule 325 Staff did not 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/or participating in activities with the children. A staff member in the classroom for four and five year-olds used an inappropriate tone with children due to the child not following directions during lunch time. .1802 In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received August 28, 2023 describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 Comment regarding violation A staff member in the classroom for four and five year-old used an inappropriate tone with children due to the child not following directions during lunch time. A staff member repeatedly used a stern and gruff tone with the children. The teacher’s voice was so loud that I could hear her from another classroom down the hallway. I heard the staff member tell the children, “No,” “You need to do what I say,” and “Don’t do that.” Ms. Jackson went to the classroom and addressed my concerns with the teacher. As I investigated the complaint, I addressed my concerns with the staff member also and she stated that’s not the “norm” for her but stated, “the child seemed to be in a daze, and she was trying to get the child’s attention since the child did not appear to be listening or following her directions.” I stated to her that it is normal behavior for children not to listen at times, but staff must interact with children in positive ways by treating them with respect and helping them feel welcome and comfortable at all times. Raising your voice and yelling makes children feel uncomfortable and afraid. If she becomes frustrated and needs a break, she needs to contact office staff for them to relieve her. Children should be spoken to in a calm, respectful voice at all times. No child may be yelled at, threatened, shamed, humiliated, bullied or subjected to sarcastic remarks or profanity. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child's developmental needs. It is important to remember to engage in one-to-one interactions with children, get on the child’s level for face-to-face interactions, use a pleasant, calm voice and simple language, provide warm, responsive physical contact, help children understand classroom expectations, redirect children when they engage in challenging behavior, listen to children and encourage them to listen to others, and acknowledge children for their accomplishments and efforts. Positive interactions between children and the caregiver are fundamental to quality child care. Ms. Jackson stated the staff member in the classroom for four and five year old children is new and still in training. She states that her and Ms. Liles have been in the classroom coaching, mentoring, and modeling for staff to ensure staff have the knowledge and skills needed to do their jobs and feel supported by the administrator. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Documentation was not completed on site due to internet/computer issues. Complaint findings and violation were discussed with Ms. Jackson during the visit. Remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with 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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: DISCOVERY PLACE CHILD CARE CENTER INC Facility ID: 71000155 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0823-136L Visit Date: 8/15/2023 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 8/15/2023 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 11:45 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 unannounced visit was to investigate a report alleging violations of child care requirements. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Assistant Administrator, Danielle Jackson was present and available for consultation. Administrator, Samantha Jackson, is on maternity leave; her last day of working was yesterday, August 14, 2023. Ms. Jackson accompanied me as I visited each classroom. I visited each classroom. Staff/child ratios for all spaces were monitored and found to be in compliance. There are eighty seven enrolled and sixty six children, ages 0 – 10, were present. Infants received care based on their individual needs. Toddlers were observing nap/rest time. At nap/rest time, lights were turned off, soft music played, and covered cots with blankets were appropriately spaced. Ensure all cots are spaced at least 18 inches apart unless a solid barrier is present. Preschool children and school age children were eating lunch. Lunch consisted of turkey and cheese sandwiches, carrots, peaches, and milk. All children were adequately supervised. The allegations of this report were discussed with Assistant Administrator – Danielle Jackson and all staff present on the premises. You were each given the opportunity to state your perceptions of the allegations and to share any pertinent information. This facility does not have cameras. The following allegations were discussed today. Allegation #1 There are concerns that sanitation guidelines are not being followed. All classrooms used with the children were visited today. All environments were clean, orderly and safe for children in care. There were no sanitation issues observed. The last sanitation inspection was conducted by Pender County Environmental Health on May 23, 2023, and the facility received a superior classification. Ms. Jackson stated she prepares the disinfectant spray bottle and soapy water bottle every morning for each classroom. She also stated sanitation requirements are being met. Toys are cleaned as required. The floors are swept and mopped at the end of the day. All staff interviewed today stated they do not have any concerns regarding the cleanliness of the center. Based on my investigations, observations, and information received, this allegation is unsubstantiated. Keeping your child care facility clean is vital for the health, safety and well-being of children and you. One of the most important steps you can take to reduce the spread of germs (i.e. bacteria, viruses and fungi) is keeping your environment clean throughout the day. All floors, floor coverings, walls, ceilings, doors, windows, bathrooms, and any space used by child care children must be kept clean, sanitized, and in good repair; this helps to provide a safe and healthy environment for children as well as staff. Allegation #2 There is a concern that inappropriate discipline, including corporal punishment, was used. During today’s visit, I visited all classrooms, there were no observations of inappropriate discipline. All staff members stated they do not hit children and children are not hit by anyone at any time for any reason. They also advised they had no concerns nor have they witnessed any staff members using any inappropriate discipline, including corporal punishment. Most staff were observed interacting with children in a nurturing/caring manner and being attentive to the needs of the children in their care. Ms. Jackson advised facility’s discipline policy is reviewed with all staff upon hire. Each staff member received a copy of the discipline policy and signed a written statement confirming receipt; this information is on file for all staff. You cannot hit children. No form of corporal punishment or rough handling is ever acceptable by staff or parents. Children must not be subjected to corporal punishment by anyone at any time for any reason. Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1803 PROHIBITED DISCIPLINE IN CHILD CARE CENTERS states no child shall be subjected to any form of corporal punishment by the owner, operator, director, or staff of any child care center. The word discipline means to teach and guide. Discipline is not punishment. The discipline standard should reflect an approach that prevents behavior problems by supporting children in learning appropriate social skills and emotional responses. Those that work with young children should care for children without ever resorting to physical punishment or abusive language. When a child needs assistance, needs to express feelings, needs, and wants, the adult should help the child learn strategies for dealing with any situation. Modify the learning/play environment (schedule, routine, activities, transitions, etc.) to support appropriate behavior in a child. Create a predictable schedule. When a routine is predictable, children are more likely to know what to do and what is expected of them. This may decrease anxiety which may decrease acting out. Use encouragement and descriptive praise. When clear encouragement and descriptive praise are used to give attention to appropriate behaviors, those behaviors are likely to be repeated. Encouragement and praise should label the behaviors—not the child. Recognize and accept age-appropriate behaviors. Understand the stages of development in which the children in your care fall. For example, those that cry may not have the verbal ability to express their needs and/or wants or, they may not have the skills yet to do so. Based on my investigation, observations, staff interviews, and information received, this allegation is unsubstantiated. Safety starts in the classroom. Children should feel and be safe everywhere on campus—in the rest rooms, hallways, on field trips, and on the playground. Feeling safe makes learning possible. Caregivers can help a child feel safe, secure, and supported by acknowledging and responding sensitively to children's cues/signals and supporting children's secure attachment through consistent and warm nurturing relationships. One sign of a positive, respectful, and responsive relationships is that children and caregivers have a variety of meaningful interactions during their time together. There was one violation observed and documented today. This violation must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required at all time. Violation Number Comment Rule 325 Staff did not 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/or participating in activities with the children. A staff member in the classroom for four and five year-olds used an inappropriate tone with children due to the child not following directions during lunch time. .1802 In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received August 28, 2023 describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 Comment regarding violation A staff member in the classroom for four and five year-old used an inappropriate tone with children due to the child not following directions during lunch time. A staff member repeatedly used a stern and gruff tone with the children. The teacher’s voice was so loud that I could hear her from another classroom down the hallway. I heard the staff member tell the children, “No,” “You need to do what I say,” and “Don’t do that.” Ms. Jackson went to the classroom and addressed my concerns with the teacher. As I investigated the complaint, I addressed my concerns with the staff member also and she stated that’s not the “norm” for her but stated, “the child seemed to be in a daze, and she was trying to get the child’s attention since the child did not appear to be listening or following her directions.” I stated to her that it is normal behavior for children not to listen at times, but staff must interact with children in positive ways by treating them with respect and helping them feel welcome and comfortable at all times. Raising your voice and yelling makes children feel uncomfortable and afraid. If she becomes frustrated and needs a break, she needs to contact office staff for them to relieve her. Children should be spoken to in a calm, respectful voice at all times. No child may be yelled at, threatened, shamed, humiliated, bullied or subjected to sarcastic remarks or profanity. Each child must be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child's developmental needs. It is important to remember to engage in one-to-one interactions with children, get on the child’s level for face-to-face interactions, use a pleasant, calm voice and simple language, provide warm, responsive physical contact, help children understand classroom expectations, redirect children when they engage in challenging behavior, listen to children and encourage them to listen to others, and acknowledge children for their accomplishments and efforts. Positive interactions between children and the caregiver are fundamental to quality child care. Ms. Jackson stated the staff member in the classroom for four and five year old children is new and still in training. She states that her and Ms. Liles have been in the classroom coaching, mentoring, and modeling for staff to ensure staff have the knowledge and skills needed to do their jobs and feel supported by the administrator. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Documentation was not completed on site due to internet/computer issues. Complaint findings and violation were discussed with Ms. Jackson during the visit. Remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with 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