Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center

10A NCAC 09 .0713 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: SANDRA JOHNSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/17/2025 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 12/17/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 12:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to an Administrative Action follow-up visit issued on October 14, 2025. The previous annual compliance visit was completed June 12, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 91% which is above the 75%, that is required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a three-Star License issued December 18, 2024. The License was based on the program earning five points in education standards, two points in program standards, and one quality point by choosing to meet an educational option: completing 20 additional annual on-going training hours for full time lead teacher and teachers, and staff working part-time. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum, Administrator, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of Superior completed July 31, 2025. Fire Classification of Approved for daytime care completed May 22, 2025. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Ms. Tatum who had just returned from dropping off a child at school. She pulled into the facility the same time I arrived. Upon entering the facility there were eight children in space #1 with one teacher prior to Ms. Tatum, entering the space. There were three children under one year of age and five who were one year of age. In space #2, there was one teacher with eleven children with the youngest child being two years of age and the oldest being four years of age. Ms. Tatum stated the reason for being out of compliance with staff child ratio was because she lost a staff member and the new staff that was hired was not present yet. The menu showed that breakfast today was eggs, cheese, peaches, wheat toast, and milk. During the Visit the violations were correct by the teacher who was late arriving and going into space number #1, to serve as the second teacher and the children in space #2, who are usually cared for in space #3, taken back to space #3, with their teacher. However, when the administrator had to leave space #1, to fix lunch the children were moved again and the teacher in space #3, had thirteen children with the youngest child being 2 years of age and the oldest being 4 years of age. When completing enrollment for Space #2, I observed there were 11 children present and the space capacity allowed at 25 sq. ft. of floor space per child is 9 children. Additionally, prior to lunch, I observed staff transitioning children from one space to another so the administrator could prepare the meal for food service. As a result, there were 13 children present in Space #3; however, the space capacity allowed at 25 sq. ft. of floor space per child is 10 children. Ms. Tatum was present at Creative Blocks for Tots Learning Center LLC, ID # 26002601, I explained the purpose of the visit and reviewed the Notice of Administrative Action with Ms. Tatum. Ms. Tatum was given the opportunity to ask questions. I reviewed Steps 1-4 in the appeal process with Ms. Dixon. I stated to Ms. Tatum that the appeal deadline is November 18, 2025. I also explained to Ms. Tatum regardless of whether you appeal, the Division of Child Development and Early Education offers an informal meeting process where providers can speak to Division staff regarding administrative actions in accordance with North Carolina General Statute 150B-22. To arrange an informal meeting, contact DCDEE at (919) 814-6300. One new staff file was monitored during today’s visit. A review of the last staff and training worksheet was monitored for current documents on file. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with Ms. Tatum. The following violation was observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 201 A room was occupied by more children than the space allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. Two rooms were occupied by more children than the spaces allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. Space #2 allowed 9 children at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child; however, there were 11 children present in the space. Additionally, Space #3 allowed 10 children at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child and there were 13 children present in the space. GS 110-91(6); .1401(f) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #1, There was one teacher present with eight children, three of the children being infants and five of the children being one year of age. In space #2, there was one teacher with eleven children with the youngest child being two years of age and the oldest child being four years of age. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on December 31, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Sandra Johnson Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 64401 Fayetteville, NC 28306 sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 TA/Consultation: A violation was cited for the facility having more than 9 children in Space #2 and more than 10 children in Space #3, at any given time. According to the floor plan submitted and approved by the Division of Child Development and Early Education, Space #2 is only permitted to have no more than 9 children present and Space #3, no more than 10 children present at any given time. The facility meets minimum space requirements at 25 sq. ft. of floor space per child. For additional guidance, you may refer to child care rule .1401(f) and GS 110-91(6). Staff/Child Ratios and Group Sizes A violation regarding the staff-to-child ratio was observed and documented today. Staff-to-child ratio is a measure of the number of children for whom each child care provider is responsible. Because younger children need more direct one-on-one interaction, response, and supervision, staff-to-child ratios are lower for younger children than for older ones. Ratio and group size are two factors that are critical to a child’s health, safety, and development. Ratios and group sizes help ensure that a child gets enough one-on-one attention from an adult who is available to take care of each child’s unique needs. Responsive caregiving is extremely important to a child’s social and emotional development, physical well-being, and overall learning. The administrator and I reviewed the staff/child ratios and maximum group size applicable to children less than one year of age. I strongly encourage you to review the staff-to-child ratio requirements with staff and establish a system that provides support to staff when they are at risk of exceeding the staff-to-child ratio and maximum group size based on the age of the young child in the group. Refer to Child Care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR CENTERS. Ms. Tatum and I discussed why she was not incompliance today. Ms. Tatum stated one member of staff left on Friday, 12/12/2025, and may not come back. She hired another staff member on 12/3/2025, who was late getting to work today. She stated that she is looking to hire one more employee. I shared with Ms. Tatum how serious this situation. She is currently on an Administrative Action for the same violation. We talked about how this is putting children safety at risk. I shared with Ms. Tatum that she must be aware of the number of children that are present, the ages of the children, and the number of staff members providing care at any given time. I shared with Ms. Tatum that some days the staff present may have to stop receiving children for the day or until other staff arrive at work. They may have to contact parents to pick up children due to not having enough staff available for the number of children present, ages of the children, and the number of staff present to provide care. I also shared with Ms. Tatum that she is already on Administrative Action for the same violation that was cited today. I shared with her that this is very serious and that based on the action that we are monitoring for that DCDEE could recommend a more stringent action to include a provisional but not limited to termination of the license. Administrative Action (AA): Written Warning (W.W.) The facility was issued an Administrative Action – Written Warning effective October 14, 2025, The AA date October 14, 2025, was not received by mail. However, Ms. Tatum was given a copy of the AA during today’s visit and was posted on the parent board and reviewed with Ms. Dixon during an Initial Administrative Action Visit. Stipulations of the (W.W.) were discussed, and reminders are listed below: The AA (W.W.) shall be posted in an area accessible to parents and visitors near the entrance of the facility. The AA (W.W.) was posted during today’s visit and shall remain posted throughout the effective time period and until closure letter is received by the facility from DCDEE. 1.The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements including, but not limited to, the following: • Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2818, regarding enhanced staff/child ratios and group size • Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6), regarding grouping of children. The facility was not incompliance with staff/child ratio on 10/20/2025. The facility was in compliance with staff/child ratios and grouping of children on 11/24/2025. The facility was not incompliance with enhanced staff/child ratios and group size. 2. Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Latoya Tatum, administrator, shall contact Julanda Jett, Partnership for Children of Cumberland County, email jjett@ccpfc.org, to arrange for training that will address supervision and staff/child ratios. No children shall be in care during this training. All staff members including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory training. Documentation of the training shall be maintained in the facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. Ms. Tatum is aware that she has until October 27, 2025, to arrange the supervision and staff/child ratio training with Partnership for Children of Cumberland County. On 10/23/2025, Ms. Tatum informed me via email that the training would be completed on 11/4/2025. Ms. Tatum submitted the signed training roster via email on 11/10/2025. 3. Within two (2) weeks after the required supervision and staff/child ratio training is completed, Ms. Tatum shall review and revise the facility’s supervision policy and staffing pattern plan to incorporate strategies learned in the training. The policy, procedures, and plan should describe, in detail, the steps the facility will take to ensure children are adequately supervised and staff/child ratios are maintained at all times. The policy and procedures shall include, but not be limited to, the following: • Designation of an administrative staff member to evaluate the arrival and departure times of children and staffing patterns throughout the day to determine the most appropriate staff schedule and to make necessary adjustments as needed • Procedures that ensure children are appropriately grouped and adequately supervised throughout the day • Procedures to follow when staff are tardy or absent • Procedures for informing administration when staff members need to attend to personal care needs or to complete tasks outside the classroom or away from the group • Procedures for when a new staff member assumes responsibility of the children or when a child or children is/are moved to another group • Procedures for informing administration when a teacher has reached the maximum amount of children they can care for, according to the ages of children The written policy, procedures, and plan shall be submitted to Sandra Johnson, Child Care Consultant, PO Box 64401, Fayetteville, NC 28306, telephone number 910-408-8985, email Sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov, for review. Ms. Johnson shall notify Ms. Tatum, orally and in writing, as to whether the written policy, procedures, and plan are sufficient or if modifications are needed. Once notification is received that the policy, procedures, and plan are sufficient, they shall be immediately implemented, and a copy of the policy, procedures, and plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. On 11/14/2025, Ms. Tatum submitted the policy for supervision and staff/child ratios via email. The policy was approved and Ms. Tatum was notified via email and orally on 11/24/2025. 4. Within one (1) week after notification from the Division that the stipulation has been met for the policy, procedures, and plan related to supervision and staffing, Ms. Tatum shall conduct a staff meeting with all staff members to discuss the policy, procedures, and staffing plan. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. Ms. Tatum has until 12/4/2025 to complete the staff meeting. During today’s visit it was confirmed that Ms. Tatum completed the staff meeting on 12/2/2025 Reminders: Please visit DCDEE’s website for the latest child care updates and information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please feel free to contact me at sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov or 910-408-8985 if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: SANDRA JOHNSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/17/2025 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 12/17/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 12:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to an Administrative Action follow-up visit issued on October 14, 2025. The previous annual compliance visit was completed June 12, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 91% which is above the 75%, that is required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a three-Star License issued December 18, 2024. The License was based on the program earning five points in education standards, two points in program standards, and one quality point by choosing to meet an educational option: completing 20 additional annual on-going training hours for full time lead teacher and teachers, and staff working part-time. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum, Administrator, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of Superior completed July 31, 2025. Fire Classification of Approved for daytime care completed May 22, 2025. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Ms. Tatum who had just returned from dropping off a child at school. She pulled into the facility the same time I arrived. Upon entering the facility there were eight children in space #1 with one teacher prior to Ms. Tatum, entering the space. There were three children under one year of age and five who were one year of age. In space #2, there was one teacher with eleven children with the youngest child being two years of age and the oldest being four years of age. Ms. Tatum stated the reason for being out of compliance with staff child ratio was because she lost a staff member and the new staff that was hired was not present yet. The menu showed that breakfast today was eggs, cheese, peaches, wheat toast, and milk. During the Visit the violations were correct by the teacher who was late arriving and going into space number #1, to serve as the second teacher and the children in space #2, who are usually cared for in space #3, taken back to space #3, with their teacher. However, when the administrator had to leave space #1, to fix lunch the children were moved again and the teacher in space #3, had thirteen children with the youngest child being 2 years of age and the oldest being 4 years of age. When completing enrollment for Space #2, I observed there were 11 children present and the space capacity allowed at 25 sq. ft. of floor space per child is 9 children. Additionally, prior to lunch, I observed staff transitioning children from one space to another so the administrator could prepare the meal for food service. As a result, there were 13 children present in Space #3; however, the space capacity allowed at 25 sq. ft. of floor space per child is 10 children. Ms. Tatum was present at Creative Blocks for Tots Learning Center LLC, ID # 26002601, I explained the purpose of the visit and reviewed the Notice of Administrative Action with Ms. Tatum. Ms. Tatum was given the opportunity to ask questions. I reviewed Steps 1-4 in the appeal process with Ms. Dixon. I stated to Ms. Tatum that the appeal deadline is November 18, 2025. I also explained to Ms. Tatum regardless of whether you appeal, the Division of Child Development and Early Education offers an informal meeting process where providers can speak to Division staff regarding administrative actions in accordance with North Carolina General Statute 150B-22. To arrange an informal meeting, contact DCDEE at (919) 814-6300. One new staff file was monitored during today’s visit. A review of the last staff and training worksheet was monitored for current documents on file. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with Ms. Tatum. The following violation was observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 201 A room was occupied by more children than the space allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. Two rooms were occupied by more children than the spaces allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. Space #2 allowed 9 children at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child; however, there were 11 children present in the space. Additionally, Space #3 allowed 10 children at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child and there were 13 children present in the space. GS 110-91(6); .1401(f) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #1, There was one teacher present with eight children, three of the children being infants and five of the children being one year of age. In space #2, there was one teacher with eleven children with the youngest child being two years of age and the oldest child being four years of age. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on December 31, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Sandra Johnson Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 64401 Fayetteville, NC 28306 sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 TA/Consultation: A violation was cited for the facility having more than 9 children in Space #2 and more than 10 children in Space #3, at any given time. According to the floor plan submitted and approved by the Division of Child Development and Early Education, Space #2 is only permitted to have no more than 9 children present and Space #3, no more than 10 children present at any given time. The facility meets minimum space requirements at 25 sq. ft. of floor space per child. For additional guidance, you may refer to child care rule .1401(f) and GS 110-91(6). Staff/Child Ratios and Group Sizes A violation regarding the staff-to-child ratio was observed and documented today. Staff-to-child ratio is a measure of the number of children for whom each child care provider is responsible. Because younger children need more direct one-on-one interaction, response, and supervision, staff-to-child ratios are lower for younger children than for older ones. Ratio and group size are two factors that are critical to a child’s health, safety, and development. Ratios and group sizes help ensure that a child gets enough one-on-one attention from an adult who is available to take care of each child’s unique needs. Responsive caregiving is extremely important to a child’s social and emotional development, physical well-being, and overall learning. The administrator and I reviewed the staff/child ratios and maximum group size applicable to children less than one year of age. I strongly encourage you to review the staff-to-child ratio requirements with staff and establish a system that provides support to staff when they are at risk of exceeding the staff-to-child ratio and maximum group size based on the age of the young child in the group. Refer to Child Care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR CENTERS. Ms. Tatum and I discussed why she was not incompliance today. Ms. Tatum stated one member of staff left on Friday, 12/12/2025, and may not come back. She hired another staff member on 12/3/2025, who was late getting to work today. She stated that she is looking to hire one more employee. I shared with Ms. Tatum how serious this situation. She is currently on an Administrative Action for the same violation. We talked about how this is putting children safety at risk. I shared with Ms. Tatum that she must be aware of the number of children that are present, the ages of the children, and the number of staff members providing care at any given time. I shared with Ms. Tatum that some days the staff present may have to stop receiving children for the day or until other staff arrive at work. They may have to contact parents to pick up children due to not having enough staff available for the number of children present, ages of the children, and the number of staff present to provide care. I also shared with Ms. Tatum that she is already on Administrative Action for the same violation that was cited today. I shared with her that this is very serious and that based on the action that we are monitoring for that DCDEE could recommend a more stringent action to include a provisional but not limited to termination of the license. Administrative Action (AA): Written Warning (W.W.) The facility was issued an Administrative Action – Written Warning effective October 14, 2025, The AA date October 14, 2025, was not received by mail. However, Ms. Tatum was given a copy of the AA during today’s visit and was posted on the parent board and reviewed with Ms. Dixon during an Initial Administrative Action Visit. Stipulations of the (W.W.) were discussed, and reminders are listed below: The AA (W.W.) shall be posted in an area accessible to parents and visitors near the entrance of the facility. The AA (W.W.) was posted during today’s visit and shall remain posted throughout the effective time period and until closure letter is received by the facility from DCDEE. 1.The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements including, but not limited to, the following: • Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2818, regarding enhanced staff/child ratios and group size • Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6), regarding grouping of children. The facility was not incompliance with staff/child ratio on 10/20/2025. The facility was in compliance with staff/child ratios and grouping of children on 11/24/2025. The facility was not incompliance with enhanced staff/child ratios and group size. 2. Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Latoya Tatum, administrator, shall contact Julanda Jett, Partnership for Children of Cumberland County, email jjett@ccpfc.org, to arrange for training that will address supervision and staff/child ratios. No children shall be in care during this training. All staff members including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory training. Documentation of the training shall be maintained in the facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. Ms. Tatum is aware that she has until October 27, 2025, to arrange the supervision and staff/child ratio training with Partnership for Children of Cumberland County. On 10/23/2025, Ms. Tatum informed me via email that the training would be completed on 11/4/2025. Ms. Tatum submitted the signed training roster via email on 11/10/2025. 3. Within two (2) weeks after the required supervision and staff/child ratio training is completed, Ms. Tatum shall review and revise the facility’s supervision policy and staffing pattern plan to incorporate strategies learned in the training. The policy, procedures, and plan should describe, in detail, the steps the facility will take to ensure children are adequately supervised and staff/child ratios are maintained at all times. The policy and procedures shall include, but not be limited to, the following: • Designation of an administrative staff member to evaluate the arrival and departure times of children and staffing patterns throughout the day to determine the most appropriate staff schedule and to make necessary adjustments as needed • Procedures that ensure children are appropriately grouped and adequately supervised throughout the day • Procedures to follow when staff are tardy or absent • Procedures for informing administration when staff members need to attend to personal care needs or to complete tasks outside the classroom or away from the group • Procedures for when a new staff member assumes responsibility of the children or when a child or children is/are moved to another group • Procedures for informing administration when a teacher has reached the maximum amount of children they can care for, according to the ages of children The written policy, procedures, and plan shall be submitted to Sandra Johnson, Child Care Consultant, PO Box 64401, Fayetteville, NC 28306, telephone number 910-408-8985, email Sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov, for review. Ms. Johnson shall notify Ms. Tatum, orally and in writing, as to whether the written policy, procedures, and plan are sufficient or if modifications are needed. Once notification is received that the policy, procedures, and plan are sufficient, they shall be immediately implemented, and a copy of the policy, procedures, and plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. On 11/14/2025, Ms. Tatum submitted the policy for supervision and staff/child ratios via email. The policy was approved and Ms. Tatum was notified via email and orally on 11/24/2025. 4. Within one (1) week after notification from the Division that the stipulation has been met for the policy, procedures, and plan related to supervision and staffing, Ms. Tatum shall conduct a staff meeting with all staff members to discuss the policy, procedures, and staffing plan. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. Ms. Tatum has until 12/4/2025 to complete the staff meeting. During today’s visit it was confirmed that Ms. Tatum completed the staff meeting on 12/2/2025 Reminders: Please visit DCDEE’s website for the latest child care updates and information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please feel free to contact me at sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov or 910-408-8985 if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: SANDRA JOHNSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/17/2025 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 12/17/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 12:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to an Administrative Action follow-up visit issued on October 14, 2025. The previous annual compliance visit was completed June 12, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 91% which is above the 75%, that is required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a three-Star License issued December 18, 2024. The License was based on the program earning five points in education standards, two points in program standards, and one quality point by choosing to meet an educational option: completing 20 additional annual on-going training hours for full time lead teacher and teachers, and staff working part-time. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum, Administrator, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of Superior completed July 31, 2025. Fire Classification of Approved for daytime care completed May 22, 2025. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Ms. Tatum who had just returned from dropping off a child at school. She pulled into the facility the same time I arrived. Upon entering the facility there were eight children in space #1 with one teacher prior to Ms. Tatum, entering the space. There were three children under one year of age and five who were one year of age. In space #2, there was one teacher with eleven children with the youngest child being two years of age and the oldest being four years of age. Ms. Tatum stated the reason for being out of compliance with staff child ratio was because she lost a staff member and the new staff that was hired was not present yet. The menu showed that breakfast today was eggs, cheese, peaches, wheat toast, and milk. During the Visit the violations were correct by the teacher who was late arriving and going into space number #1, to serve as the second teacher and the children in space #2, who are usually cared for in space #3, taken back to space #3, with their teacher. However, when the administrator had to leave space #1, to fix lunch the children were moved again and the teacher in space #3, had thirteen children with the youngest child being 2 years of age and the oldest being 4 years of age. When completing enrollment for Space #2, I observed there were 11 children present and the space capacity allowed at 25 sq. ft. of floor space per child is 9 children. Additionally, prior to lunch, I observed staff transitioning children from one space to another so the administrator could prepare the meal for food service. As a result, there were 13 children present in Space #3; however, the space capacity allowed at 25 sq. ft. of floor space per child is 10 children. Ms. Tatum was present at Creative Blocks for Tots Learning Center LLC, ID # 26002601, I explained the purpose of the visit and reviewed the Notice of Administrative Action with Ms. Tatum. Ms. Tatum was given the opportunity to ask questions. I reviewed Steps 1-4 in the appeal process with Ms. Dixon. I stated to Ms. Tatum that the appeal deadline is November 18, 2025. I also explained to Ms. Tatum regardless of whether you appeal, the Division of Child Development and Early Education offers an informal meeting process where providers can speak to Division staff regarding administrative actions in accordance with North Carolina General Statute 150B-22. To arrange an informal meeting, contact DCDEE at (919) 814-6300. One new staff file was monitored during today’s visit. A review of the last staff and training worksheet was monitored for current documents on file. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with Ms. Tatum. The following violation was observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 201 A room was occupied by more children than the space allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. Two rooms were occupied by more children than the spaces allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. Space #2 allowed 9 children at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child; however, there were 11 children present in the space. Additionally, Space #3 allowed 10 children at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child and there were 13 children present in the space. GS 110-91(6); .1401(f) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #1, There was one teacher present with eight children, three of the children being infants and five of the children being one year of age. In space #2, there was one teacher with eleven children with the youngest child being two years of age and the oldest child being four years of age. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on December 31, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Sandra Johnson Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 64401 Fayetteville, NC 28306 sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 TA/Consultation: A violation was cited for the facility having more than 9 children in Space #2 and more than 10 children in Space #3, at any given time. According to the floor plan submitted and approved by the Division of Child Development and Early Education, Space #2 is only permitted to have no more than 9 children present and Space #3, no more than 10 children present at any given time. The facility meets minimum space requirements at 25 sq. ft. of floor space per child. For additional guidance, you may refer to child care rule .1401(f) and GS 110-91(6). Staff/Child Ratios and Group Sizes A violation regarding the staff-to-child ratio was observed and documented today. Staff-to-child ratio is a measure of the number of children for whom each child care provider is responsible. Because younger children need more direct one-on-one interaction, response, and supervision, staff-to-child ratios are lower for younger children than for older ones. Ratio and group size are two factors that are critical to a child’s health, safety, and development. Ratios and group sizes help ensure that a child gets enough one-on-one attention from an adult who is available to take care of each child’s unique needs. Responsive caregiving is extremely important to a child’s social and emotional development, physical well-being, and overall learning. The administrator and I reviewed the staff/child ratios and maximum group size applicable to children less than one year of age. I strongly encourage you to review the staff-to-child ratio requirements with staff and establish a system that provides support to staff when they are at risk of exceeding the staff-to-child ratio and maximum group size based on the age of the young child in the group. Refer to Child Care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR CENTERS. Ms. Tatum and I discussed why she was not incompliance today. Ms. Tatum stated one member of staff left on Friday, 12/12/2025, and may not come back. She hired another staff member on 12/3/2025, who was late getting to work today. She stated that she is looking to hire one more employee. I shared with Ms. Tatum how serious this situation. She is currently on an Administrative Action for the same violation. We talked about how this is putting children safety at risk. I shared with Ms. Tatum that she must be aware of the number of children that are present, the ages of the children, and the number of staff members providing care at any given time. I shared with Ms. Tatum that some days the staff present may have to stop receiving children for the day or until other staff arrive at work. They may have to contact parents to pick up children due to not having enough staff available for the number of children present, ages of the children, and the number of staff present to provide care. I also shared with Ms. Tatum that she is already on Administrative Action for the same violation that was cited today. I shared with her that this is very serious and that based on the action that we are monitoring for that DCDEE could recommend a more stringent action to include a provisional but not limited to termination of the license. Administrative Action (AA): Written Warning (W.W.) The facility was issued an Administrative Action – Written Warning effective October 14, 2025, The AA date October 14, 2025, was not received by mail. However, Ms. Tatum was given a copy of the AA during today’s visit and was posted on the parent board and reviewed with Ms. Dixon during an Initial Administrative Action Visit. Stipulations of the (W.W.) were discussed, and reminders are listed below: The AA (W.W.) shall be posted in an area accessible to parents and visitors near the entrance of the facility. The AA (W.W.) was posted during today’s visit and shall remain posted throughout the effective time period and until closure letter is received by the facility from DCDEE. 1.The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements including, but not limited to, the following: • Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2818, regarding enhanced staff/child ratios and group size • Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6), regarding grouping of children. The facility was not incompliance with staff/child ratio on 10/20/2025. The facility was in compliance with staff/child ratios and grouping of children on 11/24/2025. The facility was not incompliance with enhanced staff/child ratios and group size. 2. Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Latoya Tatum, administrator, shall contact Julanda Jett, Partnership for Children of Cumberland County, email jjett@ccpfc.org, to arrange for training that will address supervision and staff/child ratios. No children shall be in care during this training. All staff members including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory training. Documentation of the training shall be maintained in the facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. Ms. Tatum is aware that she has until October 27, 2025, to arrange the supervision and staff/child ratio training with Partnership for Children of Cumberland County. On 10/23/2025, Ms. Tatum informed me via email that the training would be completed on 11/4/2025. Ms. Tatum submitted the signed training roster via email on 11/10/2025. 3. Within two (2) weeks after the required supervision and staff/child ratio training is completed, Ms. Tatum shall review and revise the facility’s supervision policy and staffing pattern plan to incorporate strategies learned in the training. The policy, procedures, and plan should describe, in detail, the steps the facility will take to ensure children are adequately supervised and staff/child ratios are maintained at all times. The policy and procedures shall include, but not be limited to, the following: • Designation of an administrative staff member to evaluate the arrival and departure times of children and staffing patterns throughout the day to determine the most appropriate staff schedule and to make necessary adjustments as needed • Procedures that ensure children are appropriately grouped and adequately supervised throughout the day • Procedures to follow when staff are tardy or absent • Procedures for informing administration when staff members need to attend to personal care needs or to complete tasks outside the classroom or away from the group • Procedures for when a new staff member assumes responsibility of the children or when a child or children is/are moved to another group • Procedures for informing administration when a teacher has reached the maximum amount of children they can care for, according to the ages of children The written policy, procedures, and plan shall be submitted to Sandra Johnson, Child Care Consultant, PO Box 64401, Fayetteville, NC 28306, telephone number 910-408-8985, email Sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov, for review. Ms. Johnson shall notify Ms. Tatum, orally and in writing, as to whether the written policy, procedures, and plan are sufficient or if modifications are needed. Once notification is received that the policy, procedures, and plan are sufficient, they shall be immediately implemented, and a copy of the policy, procedures, and plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. On 11/14/2025, Ms. Tatum submitted the policy for supervision and staff/child ratios via email. The policy was approved and Ms. Tatum was notified via email and orally on 11/24/2025. 4. Within one (1) week after notification from the Division that the stipulation has been met for the policy, procedures, and plan related to supervision and staffing, Ms. Tatum shall conduct a staff meeting with all staff members to discuss the policy, procedures, and staffing plan. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. Ms. Tatum has until 12/4/2025 to complete the staff meeting. During today’s visit it was confirmed that Ms. Tatum completed the staff meeting on 12/2/2025 Reminders: Please visit DCDEE’s website for the latest child care updates and information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please feel free to contact me at sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov or 910-408-8985 if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: SANDRA JOHNSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/17/2025 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 12/17/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 210 Time In: 08:40 AM Time Out: 12:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to an Administrative Action follow-up visit issued on October 14, 2025. The previous annual compliance visit was completed June 12, 2025, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 91% which is above the 75%, that is required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a three-Star License issued December 18, 2024. The License was based on the program earning five points in education standards, two points in program standards, and one quality point by choosing to meet an educational option: completing 20 additional annual on-going training hours for full time lead teacher and teachers, and staff working part-time. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum, Administrator, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of Superior completed July 31, 2025. Fire Classification of Approved for daytime care completed May 22, 2025. Upon my arrival I was greeted by Ms. Tatum who had just returned from dropping off a child at school. She pulled into the facility the same time I arrived. Upon entering the facility there were eight children in space #1 with one teacher prior to Ms. Tatum, entering the space. There were three children under one year of age and five who were one year of age. In space #2, there was one teacher with eleven children with the youngest child being two years of age and the oldest being four years of age. Ms. Tatum stated the reason for being out of compliance with staff child ratio was because she lost a staff member and the new staff that was hired was not present yet. The menu showed that breakfast today was eggs, cheese, peaches, wheat toast, and milk. During the Visit the violations were correct by the teacher who was late arriving and going into space number #1, to serve as the second teacher and the children in space #2, who are usually cared for in space #3, taken back to space #3, with their teacher. However, when the administrator had to leave space #1, to fix lunch the children were moved again and the teacher in space #3, had thirteen children with the youngest child being 2 years of age and the oldest being 4 years of age. When completing enrollment for Space #2, I observed there were 11 children present and the space capacity allowed at 25 sq. ft. of floor space per child is 9 children. Additionally, prior to lunch, I observed staff transitioning children from one space to another so the administrator could prepare the meal for food service. As a result, there were 13 children present in Space #3; however, the space capacity allowed at 25 sq. ft. of floor space per child is 10 children. Ms. Tatum was present at Creative Blocks for Tots Learning Center LLC, ID # 26002601, I explained the purpose of the visit and reviewed the Notice of Administrative Action with Ms. Tatum. Ms. Tatum was given the opportunity to ask questions. I reviewed Steps 1-4 in the appeal process with Ms. Dixon. I stated to Ms. Tatum that the appeal deadline is November 18, 2025. I also explained to Ms. Tatum regardless of whether you appeal, the Division of Child Development and Early Education offers an informal meeting process where providers can speak to Division staff regarding administrative actions in accordance with North Carolina General Statute 150B-22. To arrange an informal meeting, contact DCDEE at (919) 814-6300. One new staff file was monitored during today’s visit. A review of the last staff and training worksheet was monitored for current documents on file. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with Ms. Tatum. The following violation was observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 201 A room was occupied by more children than the space allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. Two rooms were occupied by more children than the spaces allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. Space #2 allowed 9 children at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child; however, there were 11 children present in the space. Additionally, Space #3 allowed 10 children at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child and there were 13 children present in the space. GS 110-91(6); .1401(f) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #1, There was one teacher present with eight children, three of the children being infants and five of the children being one year of age. In space #2, there was one teacher with eleven children with the youngest child being two years of age and the oldest child being four years of age. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on December 31, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Sandra Johnson Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 64401 Fayetteville, NC 28306 sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 TA/Consultation: A violation was cited for the facility having more than 9 children in Space #2 and more than 10 children in Space #3, at any given time. According to the floor plan submitted and approved by the Division of Child Development and Early Education, Space #2 is only permitted to have no more than 9 children present and Space #3, no more than 10 children present at any given time. The facility meets minimum space requirements at 25 sq. ft. of floor space per child. For additional guidance, you may refer to child care rule .1401(f) and GS 110-91(6). Staff/Child Ratios and Group Sizes A violation regarding the staff-to-child ratio was observed and documented today. Staff-to-child ratio is a measure of the number of children for whom each child care provider is responsible. Because younger children need more direct one-on-one interaction, response, and supervision, staff-to-child ratios are lower for younger children than for older ones. Ratio and group size are two factors that are critical to a child’s health, safety, and development. Ratios and group sizes help ensure that a child gets enough one-on-one attention from an adult who is available to take care of each child’s unique needs. Responsive caregiving is extremely important to a child’s social and emotional development, physical well-being, and overall learning. The administrator and I reviewed the staff/child ratios and maximum group size applicable to children less than one year of age. I strongly encourage you to review the staff-to-child ratio requirements with staff and establish a system that provides support to staff when they are at risk of exceeding the staff-to-child ratio and maximum group size based on the age of the young child in the group. Refer to Child Care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713 STAFF/CHILD RATIOS FOR CENTERS. Ms. Tatum and I discussed why she was not incompliance today. Ms. Tatum stated one member of staff left on Friday, 12/12/2025, and may not come back. She hired another staff member on 12/3/2025, who was late getting to work today. She stated that she is looking to hire one more employee. I shared with Ms. Tatum how serious this situation. She is currently on an Administrative Action for the same violation. We talked about how this is putting children safety at risk. I shared with Ms. Tatum that she must be aware of the number of children that are present, the ages of the children, and the number of staff members providing care at any given time. I shared with Ms. Tatum that some days the staff present may have to stop receiving children for the day or until other staff arrive at work. They may have to contact parents to pick up children due to not having enough staff available for the number of children present, ages of the children, and the number of staff present to provide care. I also shared with Ms. Tatum that she is already on Administrative Action for the same violation that was cited today. I shared with her that this is very serious and that based on the action that we are monitoring for that DCDEE could recommend a more stringent action to include a provisional but not limited to termination of the license. Administrative Action (AA): Written Warning (W.W.) The facility was issued an Administrative Action – Written Warning effective October 14, 2025, The AA date October 14, 2025, was not received by mail. However, Ms. Tatum was given a copy of the AA during today’s visit and was posted on the parent board and reviewed with Ms. Dixon during an Initial Administrative Action Visit. Stipulations of the (W.W.) were discussed, and reminders are listed below: The AA (W.W.) shall be posted in an area accessible to parents and visitors near the entrance of the facility. The AA (W.W.) was posted during today’s visit and shall remain posted throughout the effective time period and until closure letter is received by the facility from DCDEE. 1.The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements including, but not limited to, the following: • Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .2818, regarding enhanced staff/child ratios and group size • Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6), regarding grouping of children. The facility was not incompliance with staff/child ratio on 10/20/2025. The facility was in compliance with staff/child ratios and grouping of children on 11/24/2025. The facility was not incompliance with enhanced staff/child ratios and group size. 2. Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Latoya Tatum, administrator, shall contact Julanda Jett, Partnership for Children of Cumberland County, email jjett@ccpfc.org, to arrange for training that will address supervision and staff/child ratios. No children shall be in care during this training. All staff members including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory training. Documentation of the training shall be maintained in the facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. Ms. Tatum is aware that she has until October 27, 2025, to arrange the supervision and staff/child ratio training with Partnership for Children of Cumberland County. On 10/23/2025, Ms. Tatum informed me via email that the training would be completed on 11/4/2025. Ms. Tatum submitted the signed training roster via email on 11/10/2025. 3. Within two (2) weeks after the required supervision and staff/child ratio training is completed, Ms. Tatum shall review and revise the facility’s supervision policy and staffing pattern plan to incorporate strategies learned in the training. The policy, procedures, and plan should describe, in detail, the steps the facility will take to ensure children are adequately supervised and staff/child ratios are maintained at all times. The policy and procedures shall include, but not be limited to, the following: • Designation of an administrative staff member to evaluate the arrival and departure times of children and staffing patterns throughout the day to determine the most appropriate staff schedule and to make necessary adjustments as needed • Procedures that ensure children are appropriately grouped and adequately supervised throughout the day • Procedures to follow when staff are tardy or absent • Procedures for informing administration when staff members need to attend to personal care needs or to complete tasks outside the classroom or away from the group • Procedures for when a new staff member assumes responsibility of the children or when a child or children is/are moved to another group • Procedures for informing administration when a teacher has reached the maximum amount of children they can care for, according to the ages of children The written policy, procedures, and plan shall be submitted to Sandra Johnson, Child Care Consultant, PO Box 64401, Fayetteville, NC 28306, telephone number 910-408-8985, email Sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov, for review. Ms. Johnson shall notify Ms. Tatum, orally and in writing, as to whether the written policy, procedures, and plan are sufficient or if modifications are needed. Once notification is received that the policy, procedures, and plan are sufficient, they shall be immediately implemented, and a copy of the policy, procedures, and plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. On 11/14/2025, Ms. Tatum submitted the policy for supervision and staff/child ratios via email. The policy was approved and Ms. Tatum was notified via email and orally on 11/24/2025. 4. Within one (1) week after notification from the Division that the stipulation has been met for the policy, procedures, and plan related to supervision and staffing, Ms. Tatum shall conduct a staff meeting with all staff members to discuss the policy, procedures, and staffing plan. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. Ms. Tatum has until 12/4/2025 to complete the staff meeting. During today’s visit it was confirmed that Ms. Tatum completed the staff meeting on 12/2/2025 Reminders: Please visit DCDEE’s website for the latest child care updates and information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please feel free to contact me at sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov or 910-408-8985 if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: SANDRA JOHNSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0825-314L Visit Date: 8/28/2025 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 8/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 280 Time In: 11:05 AM Time Out: 01:05 PM Time In: 02:05 PM Time Out: 04:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate allegations regarding violations of child care requirements. The previous Annual Compliance Visit was completed June 12, 2025, Prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 91%, which is above the 75% required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Three-Star License issued December 18, 2024. The License was based on the program earning five (5) points in education standards, two (2) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet an education option with: Completing 20 additional annual on-going training hours for full-time lead teachers and teachers, and staff working part-time. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum, Administrator, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: The Sanitation Classification of Superior complete 2/12/2025. Fire Classification of Approved Daytime Only completed 5/22/2025. There are allegations of violations of child care requirements, including, but not limited to: -Staff Child Ratios - Grouping of Children - Materials and Equipment Upon entering the facility, I was greeted by the staff assigned birth through one year old children in space #1. There were two infants and one child one year of age. The children were sitting in their highchairs having lunch. In space #2, there were seven children ages 1 to 3 years of age. There was one caregiver responsible for the seven children. The caregiver was serving as a teacher. However, the owner stated she was a volunteer. The children were observed sitting at a child size table having their milk. The children had just finished having lunch. The milk was served after the children had already finished lunch and the plates had been discarded. In space #3 there were 7 children present ages 3 to 5 years of ages. The children had just finished having lunch. They were participating in bathroom routines, and were preparing for rest time. Lunch served today was Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, string beans, rolls, and milk. The allegations were discussed with Ms. Tatum and staff were interviewed. Allegation regarding staff/child ratio and/or group size: During interviews, staff reported that infant age children were often placed in a bouncer chair and then moved to space #3, where preschool children, ages three through five, were present. Additionally, during the visit today, there were seven children, ages one through three, in space #x 2, with one caregiver. Based on my observations and staff reports, the allegation regarding staff/child ratio and group size was substantiated. Allegation regarding materials and equipment in the outdoor area; The outdoor area was monitored and contained a sufficient quantity of materials and equipment, all in good repair, for all ages of children. Based on my observations, the allegation regarding materials and equipment was unsubstantiated. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with Ms. Tatum. The following violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 318 Children between 12 and 24 months of age were grouped with children 3 years of age or older. In space #2, there was a child one years of age being care for with children 2 and three years of age. This was corrected by placing the child one year of age from space #2 to space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. In space #2 the children were given the milk cup to drink after all the children had finished their lunch and all plates were cleared from the table. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The door to kitchen was left open after serving lunch to all classrooms. This was corrected by a staff member locking the kitchen back after being informed of it being open and no one was present in it. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. An application was not on file for the staff member who was caring for children in space #2. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. The caregiver in space #2, did not have a medical report on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. The caregiver working in space #2, did not have a TB test or Screening on file for review. .0701(a) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. The caregiver caring for children in space #2, did not have a health questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. The caregiver caring for children in space #2, did not have a emergency information on file. .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. While monitoring the ABCMS the the for the provider CBC in space #2, who was serving as a teacher. No information was found in the ABCMS portal. This was corrected by the caregiver who was present without a CBC left the facility and was informed that she could not return until she has her qualification letter in hand. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #2 their was a caregiver caring for seven children 1 to 3 years of age. It was also stated that often there are infant children cared for in space #3, with children 3 to 5 years of age. This was corrected by the caregiver in space #2, leaving the facility immediately and another staff member moved into space #2 to care for the children. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. The child care provider who was serving as a teacher in space #2, did not have a qualification letter on file. This was corrected by the caregiver who was caring for children in space #2 left the facility until further notice from the operator. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1826 Substitutes and volunteers counted in ratio were not informed of the center's EPR Plan and its location. Documentation of this notice was not maintained on file or in a file designated for emergency preparedness and response plan documents. The EPR Plan was not reviewed with the caregiver in space #2. .0607(g) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on September 11, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Sandra Johnson Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 64401 Fayetteville, NC 28306 sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 TA CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK: During the visit, Ms. Tatum informed me of the status of the criminal background check (CBC). For Ashley Tyson, caregiver in space #2. She stated that he caregiver had completed the required fingerprints and background check information on 8/27/2025. However, when checking CBC Regulatory System during the visit. The CBC Regulatory System did not show any information for Ms. Tyson. Since Ms. Tyson had no CBC qualifying letter, Ms. Tyson was told that she must leave the facility immediately and not return until they have a criminal background check qualifying letter. During the visit, we explained the criminal background check policy to Ms. Tatum. We discussed the coverage for the facility. Ms. Tatum stated that staff/child ratios could be maintained so Ms. Tyson could leave the premises. Ms. Tyson left the premises at11:30am. During today’s visit the file checklist forms for volunteer, substitute staff, and Staff that are on the DCDEE website under the provider forms tab, were printed out, discussed and left with Ms. Tatum. As required I have informed you that an Administrative Action will be recommended for the substantiation of the report. Reminders: The DCDEE has a new initiative – Natural Outdoor Learning Initiative. Through this initiative, we hope to increase knowledge and confidence for everyone in developing and implementing best practices to support the creation, programming, and safe use of naturalized outdoor spaces in child care facilities. You can learn more by visiting the NLI website, where you will also find many resources, including an updated Toolkit designed to help you enhance your outdoor learning environment. The downloadable NLI Toolkit is available at: https://naturalearning.org/preschool-outdoor-toolkit. Please visit DCDEE’s website for the latest child care updates and information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. If you have questions, please contact me at: sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov or 910-408-8985 if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0901 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: SANDRA JOHNSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0825-314L Visit Date: 8/28/2025 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 8/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 280 Time In: 11:05 AM Time Out: 01:05 PM Time In: 02:05 PM Time Out: 04:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate allegations regarding violations of child care requirements. The previous Annual Compliance Visit was completed June 12, 2025, Prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 91%, which is above the 75% required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Three-Star License issued December 18, 2024. The License was based on the program earning five (5) points in education standards, two (2) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet an education option with: Completing 20 additional annual on-going training hours for full-time lead teachers and teachers, and staff working part-time. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum, Administrator, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: The Sanitation Classification of Superior complete 2/12/2025. Fire Classification of Approved Daytime Only completed 5/22/2025. There are allegations of violations of child care requirements, including, but not limited to: -Staff Child Ratios - Grouping of Children - Materials and Equipment Upon entering the facility, I was greeted by the staff assigned birth through one year old children in space #1. There were two infants and one child one year of age. The children were sitting in their highchairs having lunch. In space #2, there were seven children ages 1 to 3 years of age. There was one caregiver responsible for the seven children. The caregiver was serving as a teacher. However, the owner stated she was a volunteer. The children were observed sitting at a child size table having their milk. The children had just finished having lunch. The milk was served after the children had already finished lunch and the plates had been discarded. In space #3 there were 7 children present ages 3 to 5 years of ages. The children had just finished having lunch. They were participating in bathroom routines, and were preparing for rest time. Lunch served today was Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, string beans, rolls, and milk. The allegations were discussed with Ms. Tatum and staff were interviewed. Allegation regarding staff/child ratio and/or group size: During interviews, staff reported that infant age children were often placed in a bouncer chair and then moved to space #3, where preschool children, ages three through five, were present. Additionally, during the visit today, there were seven children, ages one through three, in space #x 2, with one caregiver. Based on my observations and staff reports, the allegation regarding staff/child ratio and group size was substantiated. Allegation regarding materials and equipment in the outdoor area; The outdoor area was monitored and contained a sufficient quantity of materials and equipment, all in good repair, for all ages of children. Based on my observations, the allegation regarding materials and equipment was unsubstantiated. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with Ms. Tatum. The following violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 318 Children between 12 and 24 months of age were grouped with children 3 years of age or older. In space #2, there was a child one years of age being care for with children 2 and three years of age. This was corrected by placing the child one year of age from space #2 to space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. In space #2 the children were given the milk cup to drink after all the children had finished their lunch and all plates were cleared from the table. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The door to kitchen was left open after serving lunch to all classrooms. This was corrected by a staff member locking the kitchen back after being informed of it being open and no one was present in it. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. An application was not on file for the staff member who was caring for children in space #2. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. The caregiver in space #2, did not have a medical report on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. The caregiver working in space #2, did not have a TB test or Screening on file for review. .0701(a) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. The caregiver caring for children in space #2, did not have a health questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. The caregiver caring for children in space #2, did not have a emergency information on file. .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. While monitoring the ABCMS the the for the provider CBC in space #2, who was serving as a teacher. No information was found in the ABCMS portal. This was corrected by the caregiver who was present without a CBC left the facility and was informed that she could not return until she has her qualification letter in hand. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #2 their was a caregiver caring for seven children 1 to 3 years of age. It was also stated that often there are infant children cared for in space #3, with children 3 to 5 years of age. This was corrected by the caregiver in space #2, leaving the facility immediately and another staff member moved into space #2 to care for the children. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. The child care provider who was serving as a teacher in space #2, did not have a qualification letter on file. This was corrected by the caregiver who was caring for children in space #2 left the facility until further notice from the operator. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1826 Substitutes and volunteers counted in ratio were not informed of the center's EPR Plan and its location. Documentation of this notice was not maintained on file or in a file designated for emergency preparedness and response plan documents. The EPR Plan was not reviewed with the caregiver in space #2. .0607(g) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on September 11, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Sandra Johnson Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 64401 Fayetteville, NC 28306 sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 TA CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK: During the visit, Ms. Tatum informed me of the status of the criminal background check (CBC). For Ashley Tyson, caregiver in space #2. She stated that he caregiver had completed the required fingerprints and background check information on 8/27/2025. However, when checking CBC Regulatory System during the visit. The CBC Regulatory System did not show any information for Ms. Tyson. Since Ms. Tyson had no CBC qualifying letter, Ms. Tyson was told that she must leave the facility immediately and not return until they have a criminal background check qualifying letter. During the visit, we explained the criminal background check policy to Ms. Tatum. We discussed the coverage for the facility. Ms. Tatum stated that staff/child ratios could be maintained so Ms. Tyson could leave the premises. Ms. Tyson left the premises at11:30am. During today’s visit the file checklist forms for volunteer, substitute staff, and Staff that are on the DCDEE website under the provider forms tab, were printed out, discussed and left with Ms. Tatum. As required I have informed you that an Administrative Action will be recommended for the substantiation of the report. Reminders: The DCDEE has a new initiative – Natural Outdoor Learning Initiative. Through this initiative, we hope to increase knowledge and confidence for everyone in developing and implementing best practices to support the creation, programming, and safe use of naturalized outdoor spaces in child care facilities. You can learn more by visiting the NLI website, where you will also find many resources, including an updated Toolkit designed to help you enhance your outdoor learning environment. The downloadable NLI Toolkit is available at: https://naturalearning.org/preschool-outdoor-toolkit. Please visit DCDEE’s website for the latest child care updates and information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. If you have questions, please contact me at: sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov or 910-408-8985 if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: SANDRA JOHNSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0825-314L Visit Date: 8/28/2025 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 8/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 280 Time In: 11:05 AM Time Out: 01:05 PM Time In: 02:05 PM Time Out: 04:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate allegations regarding violations of child care requirements. The previous Annual Compliance Visit was completed June 12, 2025, Prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 91%, which is above the 75% required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Three-Star License issued December 18, 2024. The License was based on the program earning five (5) points in education standards, two (2) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet an education option with: Completing 20 additional annual on-going training hours for full-time lead teachers and teachers, and staff working part-time. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum, Administrator, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: The Sanitation Classification of Superior complete 2/12/2025. Fire Classification of Approved Daytime Only completed 5/22/2025. There are allegations of violations of child care requirements, including, but not limited to: -Staff Child Ratios - Grouping of Children - Materials and Equipment Upon entering the facility, I was greeted by the staff assigned birth through one year old children in space #1. There were two infants and one child one year of age. The children were sitting in their highchairs having lunch. In space #2, there were seven children ages 1 to 3 years of age. There was one caregiver responsible for the seven children. The caregiver was serving as a teacher. However, the owner stated she was a volunteer. The children were observed sitting at a child size table having their milk. The children had just finished having lunch. The milk was served after the children had already finished lunch and the plates had been discarded. In space #3 there were 7 children present ages 3 to 5 years of ages. The children had just finished having lunch. They were participating in bathroom routines, and were preparing for rest time. Lunch served today was Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, string beans, rolls, and milk. The allegations were discussed with Ms. Tatum and staff were interviewed. Allegation regarding staff/child ratio and/or group size: During interviews, staff reported that infant age children were often placed in a bouncer chair and then moved to space #3, where preschool children, ages three through five, were present. Additionally, during the visit today, there were seven children, ages one through three, in space #x 2, with one caregiver. Based on my observations and staff reports, the allegation regarding staff/child ratio and group size was substantiated. Allegation regarding materials and equipment in the outdoor area; The outdoor area was monitored and contained a sufficient quantity of materials and equipment, all in good repair, for all ages of children. Based on my observations, the allegation regarding materials and equipment was unsubstantiated. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with Ms. Tatum. The following violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 318 Children between 12 and 24 months of age were grouped with children 3 years of age or older. In space #2, there was a child one years of age being care for with children 2 and three years of age. This was corrected by placing the child one year of age from space #2 to space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. In space #2 the children were given the milk cup to drink after all the children had finished their lunch and all plates were cleared from the table. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The door to kitchen was left open after serving lunch to all classrooms. This was corrected by a staff member locking the kitchen back after being informed of it being open and no one was present in it. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. An application was not on file for the staff member who was caring for children in space #2. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. The caregiver in space #2, did not have a medical report on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. The caregiver working in space #2, did not have a TB test or Screening on file for review. .0701(a) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. The caregiver caring for children in space #2, did not have a health questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. The caregiver caring for children in space #2, did not have a emergency information on file. .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. While monitoring the ABCMS the the for the provider CBC in space #2, who was serving as a teacher. No information was found in the ABCMS portal. This was corrected by the caregiver who was present without a CBC left the facility and was informed that she could not return until she has her qualification letter in hand. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #2 their was a caregiver caring for seven children 1 to 3 years of age. It was also stated that often there are infant children cared for in space #3, with children 3 to 5 years of age. This was corrected by the caregiver in space #2, leaving the facility immediately and another staff member moved into space #2 to care for the children. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. The child care provider who was serving as a teacher in space #2, did not have a qualification letter on file. This was corrected by the caregiver who was caring for children in space #2 left the facility until further notice from the operator. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1826 Substitutes and volunteers counted in ratio were not informed of the center's EPR Plan and its location. Documentation of this notice was not maintained on file or in a file designated for emergency preparedness and response plan documents. The EPR Plan was not reviewed with the caregiver in space #2. .0607(g) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on September 11, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Sandra Johnson Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 64401 Fayetteville, NC 28306 sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 TA CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK: During the visit, Ms. Tatum informed me of the status of the criminal background check (CBC). For Ashley Tyson, caregiver in space #2. She stated that he caregiver had completed the required fingerprints and background check information on 8/27/2025. However, when checking CBC Regulatory System during the visit. The CBC Regulatory System did not show any information for Ms. Tyson. Since Ms. Tyson had no CBC qualifying letter, Ms. Tyson was told that she must leave the facility immediately and not return until they have a criminal background check qualifying letter. During the visit, we explained the criminal background check policy to Ms. Tatum. We discussed the coverage for the facility. Ms. Tatum stated that staff/child ratios could be maintained so Ms. Tyson could leave the premises. Ms. Tyson left the premises at11:30am. During today’s visit the file checklist forms for volunteer, substitute staff, and Staff that are on the DCDEE website under the provider forms tab, were printed out, discussed and left with Ms. Tatum. As required I have informed you that an Administrative Action will be recommended for the substantiation of the report. Reminders: The DCDEE has a new initiative – Natural Outdoor Learning Initiative. Through this initiative, we hope to increase knowledge and confidence for everyone in developing and implementing best practices to support the creation, programming, and safe use of naturalized outdoor spaces in child care facilities. You can learn more by visiting the NLI website, where you will also find many resources, including an updated Toolkit designed to help you enhance your outdoor learning environment. The downloadable NLI Toolkit is available at: https://naturalearning.org/preschool-outdoor-toolkit. Please visit DCDEE’s website for the latest child care updates and information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. If you have questions, please contact me at: sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov or 910-408-8985 if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0713 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: SANDRA JOHNSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0825-314L Visit Date: 8/28/2025 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 8/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 280 Time In: 11:05 AM Time Out: 01:05 PM Time In: 02:05 PM Time Out: 04:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate allegations regarding violations of child care requirements. The previous Annual Compliance Visit was completed June 12, 2025, Prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 91%, which is above the 75% required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Three-Star License issued December 18, 2024. The License was based on the program earning five (5) points in education standards, two (2) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet an education option with: Completing 20 additional annual on-going training hours for full-time lead teachers and teachers, and staff working part-time. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum, Administrator, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: The Sanitation Classification of Superior complete 2/12/2025. Fire Classification of Approved Daytime Only completed 5/22/2025. There are allegations of violations of child care requirements, including, but not limited to: -Staff Child Ratios - Grouping of Children - Materials and Equipment Upon entering the facility, I was greeted by the staff assigned birth through one year old children in space #1. There were two infants and one child one year of age. The children were sitting in their highchairs having lunch. In space #2, there were seven children ages 1 to 3 years of age. There was one caregiver responsible for the seven children. The caregiver was serving as a teacher. However, the owner stated she was a volunteer. The children were observed sitting at a child size table having their milk. The children had just finished having lunch. The milk was served after the children had already finished lunch and the plates had been discarded. In space #3 there were 7 children present ages 3 to 5 years of ages. The children had just finished having lunch. They were participating in bathroom routines, and were preparing for rest time. Lunch served today was Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, string beans, rolls, and milk. The allegations were discussed with Ms. Tatum and staff were interviewed. Allegation regarding staff/child ratio and/or group size: During interviews, staff reported that infant age children were often placed in a bouncer chair and then moved to space #3, where preschool children, ages three through five, were present. Additionally, during the visit today, there were seven children, ages one through three, in space #x 2, with one caregiver. Based on my observations and staff reports, the allegation regarding staff/child ratio and group size was substantiated. Allegation regarding materials and equipment in the outdoor area; The outdoor area was monitored and contained a sufficient quantity of materials and equipment, all in good repair, for all ages of children. Based on my observations, the allegation regarding materials and equipment was unsubstantiated. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with Ms. Tatum. The following violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 318 Children between 12 and 24 months of age were grouped with children 3 years of age or older. In space #2, there was a child one years of age being care for with children 2 and three years of age. This was corrected by placing the child one year of age from space #2 to space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. In space #2 the children were given the milk cup to drink after all the children had finished their lunch and all plates were cleared from the table. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The door to kitchen was left open after serving lunch to all classrooms. This was corrected by a staff member locking the kitchen back after being informed of it being open and no one was present in it. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. An application was not on file for the staff member who was caring for children in space #2. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. The caregiver in space #2, did not have a medical report on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. The caregiver working in space #2, did not have a TB test or Screening on file for review. .0701(a) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. The caregiver caring for children in space #2, did not have a health questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. The caregiver caring for children in space #2, did not have a emergency information on file. .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. While monitoring the ABCMS the the for the provider CBC in space #2, who was serving as a teacher. No information was found in the ABCMS portal. This was corrected by the caregiver who was present without a CBC left the facility and was informed that she could not return until she has her qualification letter in hand. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #2 their was a caregiver caring for seven children 1 to 3 years of age. It was also stated that often there are infant children cared for in space #3, with children 3 to 5 years of age. This was corrected by the caregiver in space #2, leaving the facility immediately and another staff member moved into space #2 to care for the children. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. The child care provider who was serving as a teacher in space #2, did not have a qualification letter on file. This was corrected by the caregiver who was caring for children in space #2 left the facility until further notice from the operator. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1826 Substitutes and volunteers counted in ratio were not informed of the center's EPR Plan and its location. Documentation of this notice was not maintained on file or in a file designated for emergency preparedness and response plan documents. The EPR Plan was not reviewed with the caregiver in space #2. .0607(g) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on September 11, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Sandra Johnson Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 64401 Fayetteville, NC 28306 sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 TA CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK: During the visit, Ms. Tatum informed me of the status of the criminal background check (CBC). For Ashley Tyson, caregiver in space #2. She stated that he caregiver had completed the required fingerprints and background check information on 8/27/2025. However, when checking CBC Regulatory System during the visit. The CBC Regulatory System did not show any information for Ms. Tyson. Since Ms. Tyson had no CBC qualifying letter, Ms. Tyson was told that she must leave the facility immediately and not return until they have a criminal background check qualifying letter. During the visit, we explained the criminal background check policy to Ms. Tatum. We discussed the coverage for the facility. Ms. Tatum stated that staff/child ratios could be maintained so Ms. Tyson could leave the premises. Ms. Tyson left the premises at11:30am. During today’s visit the file checklist forms for volunteer, substitute staff, and Staff that are on the DCDEE website under the provider forms tab, were printed out, discussed and left with Ms. Tatum. As required I have informed you that an Administrative Action will be recommended for the substantiation of the report. Reminders: The DCDEE has a new initiative – Natural Outdoor Learning Initiative. Through this initiative, we hope to increase knowledge and confidence for everyone in developing and implementing best practices to support the creation, programming, and safe use of naturalized outdoor spaces in child care facilities. You can learn more by visiting the NLI website, where you will also find many resources, including an updated Toolkit designed to help you enhance your outdoor learning environment. The downloadable NLI Toolkit is available at: https://naturalearning.org/preschool-outdoor-toolkit. Please visit DCDEE’s website for the latest child care updates and information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. If you have questions, please contact me at: sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov or 910-408-8985 if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: SANDRA JOHNSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0825-314L Visit Date: 8/28/2025 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 8/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 280 Time In: 11:05 AM Time Out: 01:05 PM Time In: 02:05 PM Time Out: 04:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate allegations regarding violations of child care requirements. The previous Annual Compliance Visit was completed June 12, 2025, Prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 91%, which is above the 75% required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Three-Star License issued December 18, 2024. The License was based on the program earning five (5) points in education standards, two (2) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet an education option with: Completing 20 additional annual on-going training hours for full-time lead teachers and teachers, and staff working part-time. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum, Administrator, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: The Sanitation Classification of Superior complete 2/12/2025. Fire Classification of Approved Daytime Only completed 5/22/2025. There are allegations of violations of child care requirements, including, but not limited to: -Staff Child Ratios - Grouping of Children - Materials and Equipment Upon entering the facility, I was greeted by the staff assigned birth through one year old children in space #1. There were two infants and one child one year of age. The children were sitting in their highchairs having lunch. In space #2, there were seven children ages 1 to 3 years of age. There was one caregiver responsible for the seven children. The caregiver was serving as a teacher. However, the owner stated she was a volunteer. The children were observed sitting at a child size table having their milk. The children had just finished having lunch. The milk was served after the children had already finished lunch and the plates had been discarded. In space #3 there were 7 children present ages 3 to 5 years of ages. The children had just finished having lunch. They were participating in bathroom routines, and were preparing for rest time. Lunch served today was Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, string beans, rolls, and milk. The allegations were discussed with Ms. Tatum and staff were interviewed. Allegation regarding staff/child ratio and/or group size: During interviews, staff reported that infant age children were often placed in a bouncer chair and then moved to space #3, where preschool children, ages three through five, were present. Additionally, during the visit today, there were seven children, ages one through three, in space #x 2, with one caregiver. Based on my observations and staff reports, the allegation regarding staff/child ratio and group size was substantiated. Allegation regarding materials and equipment in the outdoor area; The outdoor area was monitored and contained a sufficient quantity of materials and equipment, all in good repair, for all ages of children. Based on my observations, the allegation regarding materials and equipment was unsubstantiated. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with Ms. Tatum. The following violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 318 Children between 12 and 24 months of age were grouped with children 3 years of age or older. In space #2, there was a child one years of age being care for with children 2 and three years of age. This was corrected by placing the child one year of age from space #2 to space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. In space #2 the children were given the milk cup to drink after all the children had finished their lunch and all plates were cleared from the table. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The door to kitchen was left open after serving lunch to all classrooms. This was corrected by a staff member locking the kitchen back after being informed of it being open and no one was present in it. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. An application was not on file for the staff member who was caring for children in space #2. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. The caregiver in space #2, did not have a medical report on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. The caregiver working in space #2, did not have a TB test or Screening on file for review. .0701(a) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. The caregiver caring for children in space #2, did not have a health questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. The caregiver caring for children in space #2, did not have a emergency information on file. .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. While monitoring the ABCMS the the for the provider CBC in space #2, who was serving as a teacher. No information was found in the ABCMS portal. This was corrected by the caregiver who was present without a CBC left the facility and was informed that she could not return until she has her qualification letter in hand. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #2 their was a caregiver caring for seven children 1 to 3 years of age. It was also stated that often there are infant children cared for in space #3, with children 3 to 5 years of age. This was corrected by the caregiver in space #2, leaving the facility immediately and another staff member moved into space #2 to care for the children. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. The child care provider who was serving as a teacher in space #2, did not have a qualification letter on file. This was corrected by the caregiver who was caring for children in space #2 left the facility until further notice from the operator. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1826 Substitutes and volunteers counted in ratio were not informed of the center's EPR Plan and its location. Documentation of this notice was not maintained on file or in a file designated for emergency preparedness and response plan documents. The EPR Plan was not reviewed with the caregiver in space #2. .0607(g) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on September 11, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Sandra Johnson Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 64401 Fayetteville, NC 28306 sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 TA CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK: During the visit, Ms. Tatum informed me of the status of the criminal background check (CBC). For Ashley Tyson, caregiver in space #2. She stated that he caregiver had completed the required fingerprints and background check information on 8/27/2025. However, when checking CBC Regulatory System during the visit. The CBC Regulatory System did not show any information for Ms. Tyson. Since Ms. Tyson had no CBC qualifying letter, Ms. Tyson was told that she must leave the facility immediately and not return until they have a criminal background check qualifying letter. During the visit, we explained the criminal background check policy to Ms. Tatum. We discussed the coverage for the facility. Ms. Tatum stated that staff/child ratios could be maintained so Ms. Tyson could leave the premises. Ms. Tyson left the premises at11:30am. During today’s visit the file checklist forms for volunteer, substitute staff, and Staff that are on the DCDEE website under the provider forms tab, were printed out, discussed and left with Ms. Tatum. As required I have informed you that an Administrative Action will be recommended for the substantiation of the report. Reminders: The DCDEE has a new initiative – Natural Outdoor Learning Initiative. Through this initiative, we hope to increase knowledge and confidence for everyone in developing and implementing best practices to support the creation, programming, and safe use of naturalized outdoor spaces in child care facilities. You can learn more by visiting the NLI website, where you will also find many resources, including an updated Toolkit designed to help you enhance your outdoor learning environment. The downloadable NLI Toolkit is available at: https://naturalearning.org/preschool-outdoor-toolkit. Please visit DCDEE’s website for the latest child care updates and information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. If you have questions, please contact me at: sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov or 910-408-8985 if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: SANDRA JOHNSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0825-314L Visit Date: 8/28/2025 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 8/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 280 Time In: 11:05 AM Time Out: 01:05 PM Time In: 02:05 PM Time Out: 04:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate allegations regarding violations of child care requirements. The previous Annual Compliance Visit was completed June 12, 2025, Prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 91%, which is above the 75% required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Three-Star License issued December 18, 2024. The License was based on the program earning five (5) points in education standards, two (2) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet an education option with: Completing 20 additional annual on-going training hours for full-time lead teachers and teachers, and staff working part-time. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum, Administrator, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: The Sanitation Classification of Superior complete 2/12/2025. Fire Classification of Approved Daytime Only completed 5/22/2025. There are allegations of violations of child care requirements, including, but not limited to: -Staff Child Ratios - Grouping of Children - Materials and Equipment Upon entering the facility, I was greeted by the staff assigned birth through one year old children in space #1. There were two infants and one child one year of age. The children were sitting in their highchairs having lunch. In space #2, there were seven children ages 1 to 3 years of age. There was one caregiver responsible for the seven children. The caregiver was serving as a teacher. However, the owner stated she was a volunteer. The children were observed sitting at a child size table having their milk. The children had just finished having lunch. The milk was served after the children had already finished lunch and the plates had been discarded. In space #3 there were 7 children present ages 3 to 5 years of ages. The children had just finished having lunch. They were participating in bathroom routines, and were preparing for rest time. Lunch served today was Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, string beans, rolls, and milk. The allegations were discussed with Ms. Tatum and staff were interviewed. Allegation regarding staff/child ratio and/or group size: During interviews, staff reported that infant age children were often placed in a bouncer chair and then moved to space #3, where preschool children, ages three through five, were present. Additionally, during the visit today, there were seven children, ages one through three, in space #x 2, with one caregiver. Based on my observations and staff reports, the allegation regarding staff/child ratio and group size was substantiated. Allegation regarding materials and equipment in the outdoor area; The outdoor area was monitored and contained a sufficient quantity of materials and equipment, all in good repair, for all ages of children. Based on my observations, the allegation regarding materials and equipment was unsubstantiated. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with Ms. Tatum. The following violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 318 Children between 12 and 24 months of age were grouped with children 3 years of age or older. In space #2, there was a child one years of age being care for with children 2 and three years of age. This was corrected by placing the child one year of age from space #2 to space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. In space #2 the children were given the milk cup to drink after all the children had finished their lunch and all plates were cleared from the table. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The door to kitchen was left open after serving lunch to all classrooms. This was corrected by a staff member locking the kitchen back after being informed of it being open and no one was present in it. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. An application was not on file for the staff member who was caring for children in space #2. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. The caregiver in space #2, did not have a medical report on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. The caregiver working in space #2, did not have a TB test or Screening on file for review. .0701(a) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. The caregiver caring for children in space #2, did not have a health questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. The caregiver caring for children in space #2, did not have a emergency information on file. .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. While monitoring the ABCMS the the for the provider CBC in space #2, who was serving as a teacher. No information was found in the ABCMS portal. This was corrected by the caregiver who was present without a CBC left the facility and was informed that she could not return until she has her qualification letter in hand. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #2 their was a caregiver caring for seven children 1 to 3 years of age. It was also stated that often there are infant children cared for in space #3, with children 3 to 5 years of age. This was corrected by the caregiver in space #2, leaving the facility immediately and another staff member moved into space #2 to care for the children. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. The child care provider who was serving as a teacher in space #2, did not have a qualification letter on file. This was corrected by the caregiver who was caring for children in space #2 left the facility until further notice from the operator. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1826 Substitutes and volunteers counted in ratio were not informed of the center's EPR Plan and its location. Documentation of this notice was not maintained on file or in a file designated for emergency preparedness and response plan documents. The EPR Plan was not reviewed with the caregiver in space #2. .0607(g) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on September 11, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Sandra Johnson Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 64401 Fayetteville, NC 28306 sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 TA CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK: During the visit, Ms. Tatum informed me of the status of the criminal background check (CBC). For Ashley Tyson, caregiver in space #2. She stated that he caregiver had completed the required fingerprints and background check information on 8/27/2025. However, when checking CBC Regulatory System during the visit. The CBC Regulatory System did not show any information for Ms. Tyson. Since Ms. Tyson had no CBC qualifying letter, Ms. Tyson was told that she must leave the facility immediately and not return until they have a criminal background check qualifying letter. During the visit, we explained the criminal background check policy to Ms. Tatum. We discussed the coverage for the facility. Ms. Tatum stated that staff/child ratios could be maintained so Ms. Tyson could leave the premises. Ms. Tyson left the premises at11:30am. During today’s visit the file checklist forms for volunteer, substitute staff, and Staff that are on the DCDEE website under the provider forms tab, were printed out, discussed and left with Ms. Tatum. As required I have informed you that an Administrative Action will be recommended for the substantiation of the report. Reminders: The DCDEE has a new initiative – Natural Outdoor Learning Initiative. Through this initiative, we hope to increase knowledge and confidence for everyone in developing and implementing best practices to support the creation, programming, and safe use of naturalized outdoor spaces in child care facilities. You can learn more by visiting the NLI website, where you will also find many resources, including an updated Toolkit designed to help you enhance your outdoor learning environment. The downloadable NLI Toolkit is available at: https://naturalearning.org/preschool-outdoor-toolkit. Please visit DCDEE’s website for the latest child care updates and information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. If you have questions, please contact me at: sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov or 910-408-8985 if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: SANDRA JOHNSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0825-314L Visit Date: 8/28/2025 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 8/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 280 Time In: 11:05 AM Time Out: 01:05 PM Time In: 02:05 PM Time Out: 04:45 PM List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to investigate allegations regarding violations of child care requirements. The previous Annual Compliance Visit was completed June 12, 2025, Prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 91%, which is above the 75% required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Three-Star License issued December 18, 2024. The License was based on the program earning five (5) points in education standards, two (2) points in program standards, and one (1) quality point by choosing to meet an education option with: Completing 20 additional annual on-going training hours for full-time lead teachers and teachers, and staff working part-time. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum, Administrator, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: The Sanitation Classification of Superior complete 2/12/2025. Fire Classification of Approved Daytime Only completed 5/22/2025. There are allegations of violations of child care requirements, including, but not limited to: -Staff Child Ratios - Grouping of Children - Materials and Equipment Upon entering the facility, I was greeted by the staff assigned birth through one year old children in space #1. There were two infants and one child one year of age. The children were sitting in their highchairs having lunch. In space #2, there were seven children ages 1 to 3 years of age. There was one caregiver responsible for the seven children. The caregiver was serving as a teacher. However, the owner stated she was a volunteer. The children were observed sitting at a child size table having their milk. The children had just finished having lunch. The milk was served after the children had already finished lunch and the plates had been discarded. In space #3 there were 7 children present ages 3 to 5 years of ages. The children had just finished having lunch. They were participating in bathroom routines, and were preparing for rest time. Lunch served today was Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, string beans, rolls, and milk. The allegations were discussed with Ms. Tatum and staff were interviewed. Allegation regarding staff/child ratio and/or group size: During interviews, staff reported that infant age children were often placed in a bouncer chair and then moved to space #3, where preschool children, ages three through five, were present. Additionally, during the visit today, there were seven children, ages one through three, in space #x 2, with one caregiver. Based on my observations and staff reports, the allegation regarding staff/child ratio and group size was substantiated. Allegation regarding materials and equipment in the outdoor area; The outdoor area was monitored and contained a sufficient quantity of materials and equipment, all in good repair, for all ages of children. Based on my observations, the allegation regarding materials and equipment was unsubstantiated. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with Ms. Tatum. The following violations were cited. Violation Number Comment Rule 318 Children between 12 and 24 months of age were grouped with children 3 years of age or older. In space #2, there was a child one years of age being care for with children 2 and three years of age. This was corrected by placing the child one year of age from space #2 to space #1. 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)(6) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. In space #2 the children were given the milk cup to drink after all the children had finished their lunch and all plates were cleared from the table. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The door to kitchen was left open after serving lunch to all classrooms. This was corrected by a staff member locking the kitchen back after being informed of it being open and no one was present in it. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. An application was not on file for the staff member who was caring for children in space #2. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. The caregiver in space #2, did not have a medical report on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. The caregiver working in space #2, did not have a TB test or Screening on file for review. .0701(a) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. The caregiver caring for children in space #2, did not have a health questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. The caregiver caring for children in space #2, did not have a emergency information on file. .0701(a) 1041 Prior to employment a Criminal Background Check was not completed. While monitoring the ABCMS the the for the provider CBC in space #2, who was serving as a teacher. No information was found in the ABCMS portal. This was corrected by the caregiver who was present without a CBC left the facility and was informed that she could not return until she has her qualification letter in hand. G.S. 110-90.2(b) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. In space #2 their was a caregiver caring for seven children 1 to 3 years of age. It was also stated that often there are infant children cared for in space #3, with children 3 to 5 years of age. This was corrected by the caregiver in space #2, leaving the facility immediately and another staff member moved into space #2 to care for the children. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. The child care provider who was serving as a teacher in space #2, did not have a qualification letter on file. This was corrected by the caregiver who was caring for children in space #2 left the facility until further notice from the operator. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1826 Substitutes and volunteers counted in ratio were not informed of the center's EPR Plan and its location. Documentation of this notice was not maintained on file or in a file designated for emergency preparedness and response plan documents. The EPR Plan was not reviewed with the caregiver in space #2. .0607(g) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00pm on September 11, 2025, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Sandra Johnson Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 64401 Fayetteville, NC 28306 sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 TA CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK: During the visit, Ms. Tatum informed me of the status of the criminal background check (CBC). For Ashley Tyson, caregiver in space #2. She stated that he caregiver had completed the required fingerprints and background check information on 8/27/2025. However, when checking CBC Regulatory System during the visit. The CBC Regulatory System did not show any information for Ms. Tyson. Since Ms. Tyson had no CBC qualifying letter, Ms. Tyson was told that she must leave the facility immediately and not return until they have a criminal background check qualifying letter. During the visit, we explained the criminal background check policy to Ms. Tatum. We discussed the coverage for the facility. Ms. Tatum stated that staff/child ratios could be maintained so Ms. Tyson could leave the premises. Ms. Tyson left the premises at11:30am. During today’s visit the file checklist forms for volunteer, substitute staff, and Staff that are on the DCDEE website under the provider forms tab, were printed out, discussed and left with Ms. Tatum. As required I have informed you that an Administrative Action will be recommended for the substantiation of the report. Reminders: The DCDEE has a new initiative – Natural Outdoor Learning Initiative. Through this initiative, we hope to increase knowledge and confidence for everyone in developing and implementing best practices to support the creation, programming, and safe use of naturalized outdoor spaces in child care facilities. You can learn more by visiting the NLI website, where you will also find many resources, including an updated Toolkit designed to help you enhance your outdoor learning environment. The downloadable NLI Toolkit is available at: https://naturalearning.org/preschool-outdoor-toolkit. Please visit DCDEE’s website for the latest child care updates and information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. If you have questions, please contact me at: sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov or 910-408-8985 if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: SANDRA JOHNSON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/12/2025 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 6/12/2025 Age: From 0 To 7 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 11:25 AM Time Out: 04:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to an annual compliance visit, including health and safety trainings. The third temporary time period visit was completed November 14, 2024, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was at 89% which is above the 75%, that is required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a three-Star License issued December 18, 2024. The License was based on the program earning five points in education standards, two points in program standards, and one quality point by choosing to meet an educational option: completing 20 additional annual on-going training hours for full time lead teacher and teachers, and staff working part-time. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum, Administrator, and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Classification of Superior completed February 12, 2025. Fire Classification of Approved for daytime care completed May 22, 2025. Ms. Tatum was present while I observed the indoor and outdoor areas. The Children were observed returning from a field trip to the park. Once the children were inside the facility, they washed their hands and prepared for rest time. The children were observed resting on the individual mats. The mats were placed 18 inches apart. Lunch served today was ham and cheese sandwiches, lettuce, grapes, bread, and milk. Transportation was monitored during the visit. Transit- Ford 350 License plate: LHS-XXXX Registration /Inspection exp: Current Insurance Current At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with Ms. Tatum. The following violation was observed. Violation Number Comment Rule 1831 At least one child care provider, who has completed ITS-SIDS training was not present in the infant room, while children were in care. One staff member in space #1, was providing care to a child who was under 12 months of age. The staff member did not have ITS-SIDS training. However, this was corrected by the administrator who has ITS-SIDS training entering into space #1, to help the one staff member and understood that she has to remain in that space until the other staff member receives ITS-SIDS training and the certification in on file for review. .01102 (f) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. No compliance letter is due. Violation was corrected during visit. TA: A violation was cited for caring for children under 12 months of age without having ITS-SIDS training. Refer to NC Child Care Rule 10 A NCAC 09 .1102(f). We discussed the following strategy: Ensure that all new staff that have not completed ITS-SIDS training are not left by themselves while caring for children under 12 months of age. Reminders: The DCDEE has a new initiative – Natural Outdoor Learning Initiative. Through this initiative, we hope to increase knowledge and confidence for everyone in developing and implementing best practices to support the creation, programming, and safe use of naturalized outdoor spaces in child care facilities. You can learn more by visiting the NLI website, where you will also find many resources, including an updated Toolkit designed to help you enhance your outdoor learning environment. The downloadable NLI Toolkit is available at: https://naturalearning.org/preschool-outdoor-toolkit. Do you have children who bite? Do children struggle to focus during circle time? Do challenging behaviors cause difficult transitions? Do you spend all day managing behavior? Are you at your wits' end? Help is available for these and other behavioral challenges! The Challenging Behaviors Hotline has opened and is provided for Free. You may speak to a Behavior Support Advisor for advice and resources specific to challenging behaviors in your facility. Dial 1-888-600-1685 Option 1 or for more information go to www.childcareresourcesinc.org/challenging-behaviors-helpline. Please visit DCDEE’s website for the latest child care updates and information for child care at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Please feel free to contact me at sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov or 910-408-8985 if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/14/2024 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 11/14/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a third temporary time period visit. The previous visit was completed on September 19, 2024, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 81% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued June 17, 2024 to December 17, 2024. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Sandra Johnson, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me during today’s visit. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Inspection with nine (9) demerits and a classification of Superior completed July 29, 2024. Fire Inspection, approved for day time care only, dated May 8, 2024. L. Tatum, Administrator/Teacher, was present and counted in staff/child ratio in Space #1. I explained the purpose of our visit and requested permission to complete an unaccompanied walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas to monitor applicable child care requirements. Permission was granted. In Space #1, infants played on the carpeted floor with soft toys, dolls, books, and rattles/musical toys. L. Tatum sat on the carpeted floor with the infants and interacted with them during free play. A diapering routine was observed. In Space #3, preschool-age children participated in free play activities indoors. The children manipulated play dough and puzzles, colored on white paper with crayons, looked at books, and stacked blocks on the carpeted floor. After free play, children and staff cleaned up and participated in personal care routines prior to transitioning outdoors. Due to active precipitation, the children and staff were not able to remain in the outdoor learning environment. Upon their return indoors, children and staff washed their hands and transitioned to the carpet for vigorous activities. Children hopped, skipped, jumped, and ran in place to music. Spaces #2 and #4 were not used by children in care today. Enrollment and attendance records were monitored for all spaces. Lunch served was cheese pizza rolls, green beans, sliced peaches, and milk. Staff files were monitored September 19, 2024. One new employee was hired since the second temporary time period visit. The medical and personnel files for the new employee were monitored today. Additionally, required program records were monitored. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with L. Tatum. The following violations were observed and corrected during the visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. A teacher, identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional. Date of hire 9/23/24. This was corrected by having the staff member submit to the administrator a medical report signed by a health care professional on 11/1/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. One staff member, identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not have results indicating that they were free of active TB on file before the first day of employment. Date of hire 9/23/2024. This was corrected by the staff member submitting the TB Test Screening to the Administrator on 11/4/2024. .0701(a) No Compliance letter is due at this time. As a reminder, Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. The violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. Technical Assistance/Consultation/Reminders Specific to Today’s Visit: Staff Records: The health and safety of children requires that information regarding each staff member working with the children be kept and available when needed. Staff records consist of various documentation such as employment application, medical report, TB test results, Annual Health Questionnaire, emergency contact information, CBC qualification letter, and documentation of orientation, ongoing training, CPR and First Aid, and playground safety. A staff member hired September 23, 2024, had a medical report on file dated 11/1/24 and negative TB Test results dated 11/4/24. We discussed with the Administrator that the staff file checklist attached to the file is to be used as a tracking tool for paperwork submission and verification that the required information is on file by the due date. Additionally, the First Aid certification on file dated September 25, 2022, from the American Heart Association is not an approved training because the online portion was completed. Distance learning is not permitted for CPR or First Aid, a blended learning course (including face-to-face and virtual instruction) is permitted; so long as the course received is from an approved training organization and the student’s competency has been evaluated by the instructor. For the course to be valid, meeting NC Child Care Requirements, a completion card/certificate is required that reflects successful completion of the course, following the approved organization’s standards for the specific course. The employee shall complete an approved CPR and First Aid training by December 19, 2024. You may access the list of approved trainings at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training. Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred regarding the two-component star rated license process on September 19, 2024, and an application for a star rated license was received. L. Tatum did not request to have the ERS completed as part of the rated license assessment. Program Standards: Two (2) points The facility meets minimum requirements and enhanced ratios. Education Standards: The staff information sheet for rated license was completed and submitted on September 19, 2024. Administrator: The administrator is qualified as a Level II administrator, and has 15 years EC experience, and over 600 hours licensed school-age experience. Program Coordinator: Position was applied for in ECW; awaiting evaluation and updated educational record. Lead Teacher: 50% of the lead teachers have the NCECC, at least 15 SH ECE completed, and one year EC experience. Group Leader: WORKS account was established. The employee shall apply for the position (Group Leader) and upload their high school diploma and BSAC certificate. Quality Point: One (1) point The facility meets the following quality point educational option: Completing 20 additional annual on-going training hours for full-time lead teachers, and staff working part-time. The total points for the Child Care Star Rated License will be determined at the end of the six (6) months Temporary Time Period. As a reminder, to earn a three-star license and receive subsidy funds, the facility must earn at least a total of seven (7) points. At the end of the temporary time period, the rated license assessment packet will be completed and submitted to Raleigh for the issuance of a star rated license. The facility file will be transferred to the child care consultant in the assigned territory once the new license has been issued. At this time, the consultant for this facility will be: Sandra Johnson P.O. Box 64401 Fayetteville, NC 28306 Office 910-408-8985 Sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov You may visit our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for updated information regarding the child care law and rules, forms, and other pertinent information. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. If you have questions, please contact me at: (910) 709-4168 or Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/14/2024 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 11/14/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a third temporary time period visit. The previous visit was completed on September 19, 2024, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 81% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued June 17, 2024 to December 17, 2024. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Sandra Johnson, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me during today’s visit. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Inspection with nine (9) demerits and a classification of Superior completed July 29, 2024. Fire Inspection, approved for day time care only, dated May 8, 2024. L. Tatum, Administrator/Teacher, was present and counted in staff/child ratio in Space #1. I explained the purpose of our visit and requested permission to complete an unaccompanied walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas to monitor applicable child care requirements. Permission was granted. In Space #1, infants played on the carpeted floor with soft toys, dolls, books, and rattles/musical toys. L. Tatum sat on the carpeted floor with the infants and interacted with them during free play. A diapering routine was observed. In Space #3, preschool-age children participated in free play activities indoors. The children manipulated play dough and puzzles, colored on white paper with crayons, looked at books, and stacked blocks on the carpeted floor. After free play, children and staff cleaned up and participated in personal care routines prior to transitioning outdoors. Due to active precipitation, the children and staff were not able to remain in the outdoor learning environment. Upon their return indoors, children and staff washed their hands and transitioned to the carpet for vigorous activities. Children hopped, skipped, jumped, and ran in place to music. Spaces #2 and #4 were not used by children in care today. Enrollment and attendance records were monitored for all spaces. Lunch served was cheese pizza rolls, green beans, sliced peaches, and milk. Staff files were monitored September 19, 2024. One new employee was hired since the second temporary time period visit. The medical and personnel files for the new employee were monitored today. Additionally, required program records were monitored. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with L. Tatum. The following violations were observed and corrected during the visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. A teacher, identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional. Date of hire 9/23/24. This was corrected by having the staff member submit to the administrator a medical report signed by a health care professional on 11/1/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. One staff member, identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not have results indicating that they were free of active TB on file before the first day of employment. Date of hire 9/23/2024. This was corrected by the staff member submitting the TB Test Screening to the Administrator on 11/4/2024. .0701(a) No Compliance letter is due at this time. As a reminder, Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. The violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. Technical Assistance/Consultation/Reminders Specific to Today’s Visit: Staff Records: The health and safety of children requires that information regarding each staff member working with the children be kept and available when needed. Staff records consist of various documentation such as employment application, medical report, TB test results, Annual Health Questionnaire, emergency contact information, CBC qualification letter, and documentation of orientation, ongoing training, CPR and First Aid, and playground safety. A staff member hired September 23, 2024, had a medical report on file dated 11/1/24 and negative TB Test results dated 11/4/24. We discussed with the Administrator that the staff file checklist attached to the file is to be used as a tracking tool for paperwork submission and verification that the required information is on file by the due date. Additionally, the First Aid certification on file dated September 25, 2022, from the American Heart Association is not an approved training because the online portion was completed. Distance learning is not permitted for CPR or First Aid, a blended learning course (including face-to-face and virtual instruction) is permitted; so long as the course received is from an approved training organization and the student’s competency has been evaluated by the instructor. For the course to be valid, meeting NC Child Care Requirements, a completion card/certificate is required that reflects successful completion of the course, following the approved organization’s standards for the specific course. The employee shall complete an approved CPR and First Aid training by December 19, 2024. You may access the list of approved trainings at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training. Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred regarding the two-component star rated license process on September 19, 2024, and an application for a star rated license was received. L. Tatum did not request to have the ERS completed as part of the rated license assessment. Program Standards: Two (2) points The facility meets minimum requirements and enhanced ratios. Education Standards: The staff information sheet for rated license was completed and submitted on September 19, 2024. Administrator: The administrator is qualified as a Level II administrator, and has 15 years EC experience, and over 600 hours licensed school-age experience. Program Coordinator: Position was applied for in ECW; awaiting evaluation and updated educational record. Lead Teacher: 50% of the lead teachers have the NCECC, at least 15 SH ECE completed, and one year EC experience. Group Leader: WORKS account was established. The employee shall apply for the position (Group Leader) and upload their high school diploma and BSAC certificate. Quality Point: One (1) point The facility meets the following quality point educational option: Completing 20 additional annual on-going training hours for full-time lead teachers, and staff working part-time. The total points for the Child Care Star Rated License will be determined at the end of the six (6) months Temporary Time Period. As a reminder, to earn a three-star license and receive subsidy funds, the facility must earn at least a total of seven (7) points. At the end of the temporary time period, the rated license assessment packet will be completed and submitted to Raleigh for the issuance of a star rated license. The facility file will be transferred to the child care consultant in the assigned territory once the new license has been issued. At this time, the consultant for this facility will be: Sandra Johnson P.O. Box 64401 Fayetteville, NC 28306 Office 910-408-8985 Sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov You may visit our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for updated information regarding the child care law and rules, forms, and other pertinent information. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. If you have questions, please contact me at: (910) 709-4168 or Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/14/2024 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 11/14/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 180 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a third temporary time period visit. The previous visit was completed on September 19, 2024, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 81% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued June 17, 2024 to December 17, 2024. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Sandra Johnson, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me during today’s visit. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Inspection with nine (9) demerits and a classification of Superior completed July 29, 2024. Fire Inspection, approved for day time care only, dated May 8, 2024. L. Tatum, Administrator/Teacher, was present and counted in staff/child ratio in Space #1. I explained the purpose of our visit and requested permission to complete an unaccompanied walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas to monitor applicable child care requirements. Permission was granted. In Space #1, infants played on the carpeted floor with soft toys, dolls, books, and rattles/musical toys. L. Tatum sat on the carpeted floor with the infants and interacted with them during free play. A diapering routine was observed. In Space #3, preschool-age children participated in free play activities indoors. The children manipulated play dough and puzzles, colored on white paper with crayons, looked at books, and stacked blocks on the carpeted floor. After free play, children and staff cleaned up and participated in personal care routines prior to transitioning outdoors. Due to active precipitation, the children and staff were not able to remain in the outdoor learning environment. Upon their return indoors, children and staff washed their hands and transitioned to the carpet for vigorous activities. Children hopped, skipped, jumped, and ran in place to music. Spaces #2 and #4 were not used by children in care today. Enrollment and attendance records were monitored for all spaces. Lunch served was cheese pizza rolls, green beans, sliced peaches, and milk. Staff files were monitored September 19, 2024. One new employee was hired since the second temporary time period visit. The medical and personnel files for the new employee were monitored today. Additionally, required program records were monitored. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with L. Tatum. The following violations were observed and corrected during the visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. A teacher, identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional. Date of hire 9/23/24. This was corrected by having the staff member submit to the administrator a medical report signed by a health care professional on 11/1/24. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. One staff member, identified on the staff and training worksheet, did not have results indicating that they were free of active TB on file before the first day of employment. Date of hire 9/23/2024. This was corrected by the staff member submitting the TB Test Screening to the Administrator on 11/4/2024. .0701(a) No Compliance letter is due at this time. As a reminder, Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. The violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. Technical Assistance/Consultation/Reminders Specific to Today’s Visit: Staff Records: The health and safety of children requires that information regarding each staff member working with the children be kept and available when needed. Staff records consist of various documentation such as employment application, medical report, TB test results, Annual Health Questionnaire, emergency contact information, CBC qualification letter, and documentation of orientation, ongoing training, CPR and First Aid, and playground safety. A staff member hired September 23, 2024, had a medical report on file dated 11/1/24 and negative TB Test results dated 11/4/24. We discussed with the Administrator that the staff file checklist attached to the file is to be used as a tracking tool for paperwork submission and verification that the required information is on file by the due date. Additionally, the First Aid certification on file dated September 25, 2022, from the American Heart Association is not an approved training because the online portion was completed. Distance learning is not permitted for CPR or First Aid, a blended learning course (including face-to-face and virtual instruction) is permitted; so long as the course received is from an approved training organization and the student’s competency has been evaluated by the instructor. For the course to be valid, meeting NC Child Care Requirements, a completion card/certificate is required that reflects successful completion of the course, following the approved organization’s standards for the specific course. The employee shall complete an approved CPR and First Aid training by December 19, 2024. You may access the list of approved trainings at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Training-and-Professional-Development/Health-and-Safety-Trainings/Be-a-Smart-Consumer-of-First-Aid-and-CPR-Training. Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred regarding the two-component star rated license process on September 19, 2024, and an application for a star rated license was received. L. Tatum did not request to have the ERS completed as part of the rated license assessment. Program Standards: Two (2) points The facility meets minimum requirements and enhanced ratios. Education Standards: The staff information sheet for rated license was completed and submitted on September 19, 2024. Administrator: The administrator is qualified as a Level II administrator, and has 15 years EC experience, and over 600 hours licensed school-age experience. Program Coordinator: Position was applied for in ECW; awaiting evaluation and updated educational record. Lead Teacher: 50% of the lead teachers have the NCECC, at least 15 SH ECE completed, and one year EC experience. Group Leader: WORKS account was established. The employee shall apply for the position (Group Leader) and upload their high school diploma and BSAC certificate. Quality Point: One (1) point The facility meets the following quality point educational option: Completing 20 additional annual on-going training hours for full-time lead teachers, and staff working part-time. The total points for the Child Care Star Rated License will be determined at the end of the six (6) months Temporary Time Period. As a reminder, to earn a three-star license and receive subsidy funds, the facility must earn at least a total of seven (7) points. At the end of the temporary time period, the rated license assessment packet will be completed and submitted to Raleigh for the issuance of a star rated license. The facility file will be transferred to the child care consultant in the assigned territory once the new license has been issued. At this time, the consultant for this facility will be: Sandra Johnson P.O. Box 64401 Fayetteville, NC 28306 Office 910-408-8985 Sandra.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov You may visit our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for updated information regarding the child care law and rules, forms, and other pertinent information. As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php?id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS on an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. If you have questions, please contact me at: (910) 709-4168 or Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0514 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/19/2024 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 9/19/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 215 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a second temporary time period visit. The previous visit was completed on July 23, 2024, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 77% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued June 17, 2024 to December 17, 2024. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Sandra Johnson, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me during today’s visit. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Inspection with nine (9) demerits and a classification of Superior completed July 29, 2024. Fire Inspection, approved for day time care only, dated May 8, 2024. L. Tatum, Administrator, was present and counted in staff/child ratio in Space #1. I explained the purpose of the visit and requested to conduct an unaccompanied walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas. Permission was granted. In Space #1, nonmobile infants played on the carpeted floor with soft blocks, manipulatives, and dolls. A diapering routine was observed. Step #7 in the diapering procedure was omitted. An infant was held for bottle feeding. The bottle of formula was not dated and labeled for the appropriate child. When prompted, the administrator dated and labeled the bottle for the appropriate child. In Space #2, preschool-age children engaged in free play activities. Children stacked wooden blocks, manipulated puzzles and Legos, and looked at books. Afterwards, children participated in personal care routines prior to transitioning outdoors. I observed two coats hanging inside a cubby on two separate hooks touching one another causing contamination. When prompted, L. Leonard removed one of the coats from the storage space and placed it inside a separate cubby. In Space #3, children, ages three and four-years-old, played in the activity areas, and participated in personal care routines. Children played with musical instruments, manipulated circular connectors, and built with Legos. B. Armstrong, teacher, walked around the room, interacted with the children, and encouraged problem-solving, and communication. No children were present in Space #4. The space was monitored for applicable child care requirements. Upon their return indoors, children and staff assigned to Space #3 washed their hands and prepared for meal time. Lunch served was Fish sticks, French fries, sliced whole wheat bread, applesauce, and milk. After lunch, children participated in personal care routines and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Soft music played in the background. Staff files were monitored on July 23, 2024. During today’s visit, I verified the information on file was current/adequate. Children’s files and program records were monitored today. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with L. Tatum. The following violations were observed during the visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, that enrolled in the center on September 19, 2024. GS 110-102 205 Storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. In Space #2, storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. An individual cubby with two hooks was shared by two children. Personal belongings were not stored to prevent contamination. G.S. 110-91(6) 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. A bottle of formula in Space #1 was not dated and labeled for the appropriate child. When prompted, the administrator dated and labeled the bottle of formula for the appropriate child. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. The written feeding plan on file for the child, identified on the children's records worksheet, did not include the parent signature and was not dated when received by the center. .0902(a) 619 Diaper changing surfaces were not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after each use. In Space #1, the diaper changing surface was not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after a diapering routine was completed. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(c) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. Signed acknowledgement that the safe sleep policy was given to and explained to the parent of a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, on or before the first day the infant attended the center (September 19, 2024) was not on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Identifying information for a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, was not in the vehicle during transport. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. A signed acknowledgement that operational policies were discussed with parents on or before the child's first day, September 19, 2024, was not on file for the child, identified on the children's records worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. A signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not on file for a child, identified on the children's records worksheet. The child's date of enrollment was September 19, 2024. .1804(c) 1832 Application did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. The application for a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. The child's date on enrollment was September 19, 2024. .0801 (a)(5) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. The violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00 p.m. on October 3, 2024, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Rhonda Blackmon Lead Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 279 Linden, NC 28356 Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your facility. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a star rated license. Failure to maintain an acceptable compliance history may result in the issuance of administrative action up to and including denial of a full license at the end of the temporary time period. Technical Assistance Specific to Today’s Visit: Children’s Files: Record keeping is one of the most time-consuming tasks associated with administering a child care program. It is an important part of licensure. Review staff and children's files often to ensure the program is maintaining accurate licensing records. Organization and completeness of records is important to ensure easy access to information in emergency situations. We discussed the importance of reviewing all children’s files to ensure accuracy with completion of all required areas of the child's application, signatures on required forms, and items required to be on file on Day 1. As a reminder, the administrator should not sign off on the document until all areas of the form have been addressed. Continue to use the resource from the DCDEE website entitled, “ Children’s File Checklist.” Space/Storage Requirements: Space shall be available for proper storage of beds, cribs, mats, cots, sleeping garments, and linens as well as designated space for each child's personal belongings. Per sanitation requirement 18A .2820(E), individual cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall be provided for storage of coats, hats, or similar items. Coat hooks not in individual cubicles or lockers, shall be spaced at least 12 horizontal inches apart to protect from contamination. We discussed the following strategies for storing children’s personal belongings: purchase additional cubbies that can be mounted to the wall or placed against the wall in Space #2, add additional hooks on the walls and place them at least 18 inches apart to ensure each child’s belongings are protected from contamination, and/or add solid barriers in between the hooks inside the cubbies to prevent the items from touching. Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred regarding the two-component star rated license process on July 23, 2024. On June 28, 2024, the Governor signed Senate Bill 425 (now Session Law 2024-34), Health and Human Services Omnibus Bill, which includes the Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) Modifications recommended to the Legislature by the NC Child Care Commission to update QRIS and create additional pathways for licensed child care facilities to earn star rated licenses. Hold Harmless provisions have been extended and star rated license assessments for licensed child care providers will be conducted by provider request only, until the QRIS rulemaking process has been completed. Star rated license assessments are still required for new child care programs. L. Tatum and I discussed strategies on how to achieve a 3-5 Star Rated License. An application for a star rated license was received today. L. Tatum did not request to have the ERS completed as part of the rated license assessment. Program Standards: The facility meets minimum requirements and enhanced ratios. Education Standards: The staff information sheet for rated license was completed and submitted at the end of today’s visit. As a reminder, all staff education should be current before the fifth month (November 1, 2024) of the temporary time period as a rated license will need to be processed before the end date of the temporary license. Quality Point: L. Tatum and I reviewed and discussed eligibility requirements for the quality point option. The total points for the Child Care Star Rated License will be determined at the end of the six (6) months Temporary Time Period. As a reminder, to earn a three-star license and receive subsidy funds, the facility must earn at least a total of seven (7) points. Indicator Month: Discussions occurred regarding the indictor month for annual compliance monitoring visits at a licensed child care facility. I informed L. Tatum when a facility becomes licensed, it is assigned an “annual compliance” month. The annual compliance month is the month in which the facility’s Temporary License was issued (June). I stated the annual compliance month does not change if the facility is issued a 2 – 5 Star License, a Provisional License, or a Probationary License. Child care consultants use the annual compliance month to determine when to schedule each facility’s annual compliance visit. Additionally, representatives of the DCDEE may visit your program at any time and must complete at least one full monitoring visit at least annually. To best support you and the children in care, our goal is to visit programs more frequently. On-going Training: The staff and training worksheets were updated during today’s visit. It is your responsibility to keep the staff and training worksheets current for the consultant to review during annual compliance visits. Reminder: After the first year of employment, the child care administrator and any staff who work with children, shall participate in on-going training activities annually. Refer to child care requirement 09.1103 for the number of required training hours based on education and experience. Visit our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for updated information regarding the child care law and rules, forms, and other pertinent information. If you have questions, please contact me at: (910) 709-4168 or Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0606 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/19/2024 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 9/19/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 215 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a second temporary time period visit. The previous visit was completed on July 23, 2024, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 77% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued June 17, 2024 to December 17, 2024. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Sandra Johnson, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me during today’s visit. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Inspection with nine (9) demerits and a classification of Superior completed July 29, 2024. Fire Inspection, approved for day time care only, dated May 8, 2024. L. Tatum, Administrator, was present and counted in staff/child ratio in Space #1. I explained the purpose of the visit and requested to conduct an unaccompanied walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas. Permission was granted. In Space #1, nonmobile infants played on the carpeted floor with soft blocks, manipulatives, and dolls. A diapering routine was observed. Step #7 in the diapering procedure was omitted. An infant was held for bottle feeding. The bottle of formula was not dated and labeled for the appropriate child. When prompted, the administrator dated and labeled the bottle for the appropriate child. In Space #2, preschool-age children engaged in free play activities. Children stacked wooden blocks, manipulated puzzles and Legos, and looked at books. Afterwards, children participated in personal care routines prior to transitioning outdoors. I observed two coats hanging inside a cubby on two separate hooks touching one another causing contamination. When prompted, L. Leonard removed one of the coats from the storage space and placed it inside a separate cubby. In Space #3, children, ages three and four-years-old, played in the activity areas, and participated in personal care routines. Children played with musical instruments, manipulated circular connectors, and built with Legos. B. Armstrong, teacher, walked around the room, interacted with the children, and encouraged problem-solving, and communication. No children were present in Space #4. The space was monitored for applicable child care requirements. Upon their return indoors, children and staff assigned to Space #3 washed their hands and prepared for meal time. Lunch served was Fish sticks, French fries, sliced whole wheat bread, applesauce, and milk. After lunch, children participated in personal care routines and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Soft music played in the background. Staff files were monitored on July 23, 2024. During today’s visit, I verified the information on file was current/adequate. Children’s files and program records were monitored today. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with L. Tatum. The following violations were observed during the visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, that enrolled in the center on September 19, 2024. GS 110-102 205 Storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. In Space #2, storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. An individual cubby with two hooks was shared by two children. Personal belongings were not stored to prevent contamination. G.S. 110-91(6) 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. A bottle of formula in Space #1 was not dated and labeled for the appropriate child. When prompted, the administrator dated and labeled the bottle of formula for the appropriate child. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. The written feeding plan on file for the child, identified on the children's records worksheet, did not include the parent signature and was not dated when received by the center. .0902(a) 619 Diaper changing surfaces were not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after each use. In Space #1, the diaper changing surface was not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after a diapering routine was completed. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(c) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. Signed acknowledgement that the safe sleep policy was given to and explained to the parent of a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, on or before the first day the infant attended the center (September 19, 2024) was not on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Identifying information for a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, was not in the vehicle during transport. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. A signed acknowledgement that operational policies were discussed with parents on or before the child's first day, September 19, 2024, was not on file for the child, identified on the children's records worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. A signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not on file for a child, identified on the children's records worksheet. The child's date of enrollment was September 19, 2024. .1804(c) 1832 Application did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. The application for a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. The child's date on enrollment was September 19, 2024. .0801 (a)(5) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. The violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00 p.m. on October 3, 2024, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Rhonda Blackmon Lead Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 279 Linden, NC 28356 Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your facility. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a star rated license. Failure to maintain an acceptable compliance history may result in the issuance of administrative action up to and including denial of a full license at the end of the temporary time period. Technical Assistance Specific to Today’s Visit: Children’s Files: Record keeping is one of the most time-consuming tasks associated with administering a child care program. It is an important part of licensure. Review staff and children's files often to ensure the program is maintaining accurate licensing records. Organization and completeness of records is important to ensure easy access to information in emergency situations. We discussed the importance of reviewing all children’s files to ensure accuracy with completion of all required areas of the child's application, signatures on required forms, and items required to be on file on Day 1. As a reminder, the administrator should not sign off on the document until all areas of the form have been addressed. Continue to use the resource from the DCDEE website entitled, “ Children’s File Checklist.” Space/Storage Requirements: Space shall be available for proper storage of beds, cribs, mats, cots, sleeping garments, and linens as well as designated space for each child's personal belongings. Per sanitation requirement 18A .2820(E), individual cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall be provided for storage of coats, hats, or similar items. Coat hooks not in individual cubicles or lockers, shall be spaced at least 12 horizontal inches apart to protect from contamination. We discussed the following strategies for storing children’s personal belongings: purchase additional cubbies that can be mounted to the wall or placed against the wall in Space #2, add additional hooks on the walls and place them at least 18 inches apart to ensure each child’s belongings are protected from contamination, and/or add solid barriers in between the hooks inside the cubbies to prevent the items from touching. Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred regarding the two-component star rated license process on July 23, 2024. On June 28, 2024, the Governor signed Senate Bill 425 (now Session Law 2024-34), Health and Human Services Omnibus Bill, which includes the Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) Modifications recommended to the Legislature by the NC Child Care Commission to update QRIS and create additional pathways for licensed child care facilities to earn star rated licenses. Hold Harmless provisions have been extended and star rated license assessments for licensed child care providers will be conducted by provider request only, until the QRIS rulemaking process has been completed. Star rated license assessments are still required for new child care programs. L. Tatum and I discussed strategies on how to achieve a 3-5 Star Rated License. An application for a star rated license was received today. L. Tatum did not request to have the ERS completed as part of the rated license assessment. Program Standards: The facility meets minimum requirements and enhanced ratios. Education Standards: The staff information sheet for rated license was completed and submitted at the end of today’s visit. As a reminder, all staff education should be current before the fifth month (November 1, 2024) of the temporary time period as a rated license will need to be processed before the end date of the temporary license. Quality Point: L. Tatum and I reviewed and discussed eligibility requirements for the quality point option. The total points for the Child Care Star Rated License will be determined at the end of the six (6) months Temporary Time Period. As a reminder, to earn a three-star license and receive subsidy funds, the facility must earn at least a total of seven (7) points. Indicator Month: Discussions occurred regarding the indictor month for annual compliance monitoring visits at a licensed child care facility. I informed L. Tatum when a facility becomes licensed, it is assigned an “annual compliance” month. The annual compliance month is the month in which the facility’s Temporary License was issued (June). I stated the annual compliance month does not change if the facility is issued a 2 – 5 Star License, a Provisional License, or a Probationary License. Child care consultants use the annual compliance month to determine when to schedule each facility’s annual compliance visit. Additionally, representatives of the DCDEE may visit your program at any time and must complete at least one full monitoring visit at least annually. To best support you and the children in care, our goal is to visit programs more frequently. On-going Training: The staff and training worksheets were updated during today’s visit. It is your responsibility to keep the staff and training worksheets current for the consultant to review during annual compliance visits. Reminder: After the first year of employment, the child care administrator and any staff who work with children, shall participate in on-going training activities annually. Refer to child care requirement 09.1103 for the number of required training hours based on education and experience. Visit our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for updated information regarding the child care law and rules, forms, and other pertinent information. If you have questions, please contact me at: (910) 709-4168 or Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1003 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/19/2024 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 9/19/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 215 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a second temporary time period visit. The previous visit was completed on July 23, 2024, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 77% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued June 17, 2024 to December 17, 2024. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Sandra Johnson, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me during today’s visit. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Inspection with nine (9) demerits and a classification of Superior completed July 29, 2024. Fire Inspection, approved for day time care only, dated May 8, 2024. L. Tatum, Administrator, was present and counted in staff/child ratio in Space #1. I explained the purpose of the visit and requested to conduct an unaccompanied walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas. Permission was granted. In Space #1, nonmobile infants played on the carpeted floor with soft blocks, manipulatives, and dolls. A diapering routine was observed. Step #7 in the diapering procedure was omitted. An infant was held for bottle feeding. The bottle of formula was not dated and labeled for the appropriate child. When prompted, the administrator dated and labeled the bottle for the appropriate child. In Space #2, preschool-age children engaged in free play activities. Children stacked wooden blocks, manipulated puzzles and Legos, and looked at books. Afterwards, children participated in personal care routines prior to transitioning outdoors. I observed two coats hanging inside a cubby on two separate hooks touching one another causing contamination. When prompted, L. Leonard removed one of the coats from the storage space and placed it inside a separate cubby. In Space #3, children, ages three and four-years-old, played in the activity areas, and participated in personal care routines. Children played with musical instruments, manipulated circular connectors, and built with Legos. B. Armstrong, teacher, walked around the room, interacted with the children, and encouraged problem-solving, and communication. No children were present in Space #4. The space was monitored for applicable child care requirements. Upon their return indoors, children and staff assigned to Space #3 washed their hands and prepared for meal time. Lunch served was Fish sticks, French fries, sliced whole wheat bread, applesauce, and milk. After lunch, children participated in personal care routines and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Soft music played in the background. Staff files were monitored on July 23, 2024. During today’s visit, I verified the information on file was current/adequate. Children’s files and program records were monitored today. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with L. Tatum. The following violations were observed during the visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, that enrolled in the center on September 19, 2024. GS 110-102 205 Storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. In Space #2, storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. An individual cubby with two hooks was shared by two children. Personal belongings were not stored to prevent contamination. G.S. 110-91(6) 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. A bottle of formula in Space #1 was not dated and labeled for the appropriate child. When prompted, the administrator dated and labeled the bottle of formula for the appropriate child. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. The written feeding plan on file for the child, identified on the children's records worksheet, did not include the parent signature and was not dated when received by the center. .0902(a) 619 Diaper changing surfaces were not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after each use. In Space #1, the diaper changing surface was not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after a diapering routine was completed. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(c) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. Signed acknowledgement that the safe sleep policy was given to and explained to the parent of a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, on or before the first day the infant attended the center (September 19, 2024) was not on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Identifying information for a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, was not in the vehicle during transport. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. A signed acknowledgement that operational policies were discussed with parents on or before the child's first day, September 19, 2024, was not on file for the child, identified on the children's records worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. A signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not on file for a child, identified on the children's records worksheet. The child's date of enrollment was September 19, 2024. .1804(c) 1832 Application did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. The application for a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. The child's date on enrollment was September 19, 2024. .0801 (a)(5) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. The violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00 p.m. on October 3, 2024, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Rhonda Blackmon Lead Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 279 Linden, NC 28356 Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your facility. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a star rated license. Failure to maintain an acceptable compliance history may result in the issuance of administrative action up to and including denial of a full license at the end of the temporary time period. Technical Assistance Specific to Today’s Visit: Children’s Files: Record keeping is one of the most time-consuming tasks associated with administering a child care program. It is an important part of licensure. Review staff and children's files often to ensure the program is maintaining accurate licensing records. Organization and completeness of records is important to ensure easy access to information in emergency situations. We discussed the importance of reviewing all children’s files to ensure accuracy with completion of all required areas of the child's application, signatures on required forms, and items required to be on file on Day 1. As a reminder, the administrator should not sign off on the document until all areas of the form have been addressed. Continue to use the resource from the DCDEE website entitled, “ Children’s File Checklist.” Space/Storage Requirements: Space shall be available for proper storage of beds, cribs, mats, cots, sleeping garments, and linens as well as designated space for each child's personal belongings. Per sanitation requirement 18A .2820(E), individual cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall be provided for storage of coats, hats, or similar items. Coat hooks not in individual cubicles or lockers, shall be spaced at least 12 horizontal inches apart to protect from contamination. We discussed the following strategies for storing children’s personal belongings: purchase additional cubbies that can be mounted to the wall or placed against the wall in Space #2, add additional hooks on the walls and place them at least 18 inches apart to ensure each child’s belongings are protected from contamination, and/or add solid barriers in between the hooks inside the cubbies to prevent the items from touching. Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred regarding the two-component star rated license process on July 23, 2024. On June 28, 2024, the Governor signed Senate Bill 425 (now Session Law 2024-34), Health and Human Services Omnibus Bill, which includes the Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) Modifications recommended to the Legislature by the NC Child Care Commission to update QRIS and create additional pathways for licensed child care facilities to earn star rated licenses. Hold Harmless provisions have been extended and star rated license assessments for licensed child care providers will be conducted by provider request only, until the QRIS rulemaking process has been completed. Star rated license assessments are still required for new child care programs. L. Tatum and I discussed strategies on how to achieve a 3-5 Star Rated License. An application for a star rated license was received today. L. Tatum did not request to have the ERS completed as part of the rated license assessment. Program Standards: The facility meets minimum requirements and enhanced ratios. Education Standards: The staff information sheet for rated license was completed and submitted at the end of today’s visit. As a reminder, all staff education should be current before the fifth month (November 1, 2024) of the temporary time period as a rated license will need to be processed before the end date of the temporary license. Quality Point: L. Tatum and I reviewed and discussed eligibility requirements for the quality point option. The total points for the Child Care Star Rated License will be determined at the end of the six (6) months Temporary Time Period. As a reminder, to earn a three-star license and receive subsidy funds, the facility must earn at least a total of seven (7) points. Indicator Month: Discussions occurred regarding the indictor month for annual compliance monitoring visits at a licensed child care facility. I informed L. Tatum when a facility becomes licensed, it is assigned an “annual compliance” month. The annual compliance month is the month in which the facility’s Temporary License was issued (June). I stated the annual compliance month does not change if the facility is issued a 2 – 5 Star License, a Provisional License, or a Probationary License. Child care consultants use the annual compliance month to determine when to schedule each facility’s annual compliance visit. Additionally, representatives of the DCDEE may visit your program at any time and must complete at least one full monitoring visit at least annually. To best support you and the children in care, our goal is to visit programs more frequently. On-going Training: The staff and training worksheets were updated during today’s visit. It is your responsibility to keep the staff and training worksheets current for the consultant to review during annual compliance visits. Reminder: After the first year of employment, the child care administrator and any staff who work with children, shall participate in on-going training activities annually. Refer to child care requirement 09.1103 for the number of required training hours based on education and experience. Visit our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for updated information regarding the child care law and rules, forms, and other pertinent information. If you have questions, please contact me at: (910) 709-4168 or Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/19/2024 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 9/19/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 215 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a second temporary time period visit. The previous visit was completed on July 23, 2024, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 77% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued June 17, 2024 to December 17, 2024. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Sandra Johnson, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me during today’s visit. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Inspection with nine (9) demerits and a classification of Superior completed July 29, 2024. Fire Inspection, approved for day time care only, dated May 8, 2024. L. Tatum, Administrator, was present and counted in staff/child ratio in Space #1. I explained the purpose of the visit and requested to conduct an unaccompanied walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas. Permission was granted. In Space #1, nonmobile infants played on the carpeted floor with soft blocks, manipulatives, and dolls. A diapering routine was observed. Step #7 in the diapering procedure was omitted. An infant was held for bottle feeding. The bottle of formula was not dated and labeled for the appropriate child. When prompted, the administrator dated and labeled the bottle for the appropriate child. In Space #2, preschool-age children engaged in free play activities. Children stacked wooden blocks, manipulated puzzles and Legos, and looked at books. Afterwards, children participated in personal care routines prior to transitioning outdoors. I observed two coats hanging inside a cubby on two separate hooks touching one another causing contamination. When prompted, L. Leonard removed one of the coats from the storage space and placed it inside a separate cubby. In Space #3, children, ages three and four-years-old, played in the activity areas, and participated in personal care routines. Children played with musical instruments, manipulated circular connectors, and built with Legos. B. Armstrong, teacher, walked around the room, interacted with the children, and encouraged problem-solving, and communication. No children were present in Space #4. The space was monitored for applicable child care requirements. Upon their return indoors, children and staff assigned to Space #3 washed their hands and prepared for meal time. Lunch served was Fish sticks, French fries, sliced whole wheat bread, applesauce, and milk. After lunch, children participated in personal care routines and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Soft music played in the background. Staff files were monitored on July 23, 2024. During today’s visit, I verified the information on file was current/adequate. Children’s files and program records were monitored today. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with L. Tatum. The following violations were observed during the visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, that enrolled in the center on September 19, 2024. GS 110-102 205 Storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. In Space #2, storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. An individual cubby with two hooks was shared by two children. Personal belongings were not stored to prevent contamination. G.S. 110-91(6) 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. A bottle of formula in Space #1 was not dated and labeled for the appropriate child. When prompted, the administrator dated and labeled the bottle of formula for the appropriate child. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. The written feeding plan on file for the child, identified on the children's records worksheet, did not include the parent signature and was not dated when received by the center. .0902(a) 619 Diaper changing surfaces were not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after each use. In Space #1, the diaper changing surface was not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after a diapering routine was completed. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(c) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. Signed acknowledgement that the safe sleep policy was given to and explained to the parent of a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, on or before the first day the infant attended the center (September 19, 2024) was not on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Identifying information for a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, was not in the vehicle during transport. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. A signed acknowledgement that operational policies were discussed with parents on or before the child's first day, September 19, 2024, was not on file for the child, identified on the children's records worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. A signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not on file for a child, identified on the children's records worksheet. The child's date of enrollment was September 19, 2024. .1804(c) 1832 Application did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. The application for a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. The child's date on enrollment was September 19, 2024. .0801 (a)(5) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. The violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00 p.m. on October 3, 2024, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Rhonda Blackmon Lead Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 279 Linden, NC 28356 Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your facility. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a star rated license. Failure to maintain an acceptable compliance history may result in the issuance of administrative action up to and including denial of a full license at the end of the temporary time period. Technical Assistance Specific to Today’s Visit: Children’s Files: Record keeping is one of the most time-consuming tasks associated with administering a child care program. It is an important part of licensure. Review staff and children's files often to ensure the program is maintaining accurate licensing records. Organization and completeness of records is important to ensure easy access to information in emergency situations. We discussed the importance of reviewing all children’s files to ensure accuracy with completion of all required areas of the child's application, signatures on required forms, and items required to be on file on Day 1. As a reminder, the administrator should not sign off on the document until all areas of the form have been addressed. Continue to use the resource from the DCDEE website entitled, “ Children’s File Checklist.” Space/Storage Requirements: Space shall be available for proper storage of beds, cribs, mats, cots, sleeping garments, and linens as well as designated space for each child's personal belongings. Per sanitation requirement 18A .2820(E), individual cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall be provided for storage of coats, hats, or similar items. Coat hooks not in individual cubicles or lockers, shall be spaced at least 12 horizontal inches apart to protect from contamination. We discussed the following strategies for storing children’s personal belongings: purchase additional cubbies that can be mounted to the wall or placed against the wall in Space #2, add additional hooks on the walls and place them at least 18 inches apart to ensure each child’s belongings are protected from contamination, and/or add solid barriers in between the hooks inside the cubbies to prevent the items from touching. Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred regarding the two-component star rated license process on July 23, 2024. On June 28, 2024, the Governor signed Senate Bill 425 (now Session Law 2024-34), Health and Human Services Omnibus Bill, which includes the Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) Modifications recommended to the Legislature by the NC Child Care Commission to update QRIS and create additional pathways for licensed child care facilities to earn star rated licenses. Hold Harmless provisions have been extended and star rated license assessments for licensed child care providers will be conducted by provider request only, until the QRIS rulemaking process has been completed. Star rated license assessments are still required for new child care programs. L. Tatum and I discussed strategies on how to achieve a 3-5 Star Rated License. An application for a star rated license was received today. L. Tatum did not request to have the ERS completed as part of the rated license assessment. Program Standards: The facility meets minimum requirements and enhanced ratios. Education Standards: The staff information sheet for rated license was completed and submitted at the end of today’s visit. As a reminder, all staff education should be current before the fifth month (November 1, 2024) of the temporary time period as a rated license will need to be processed before the end date of the temporary license. Quality Point: L. Tatum and I reviewed and discussed eligibility requirements for the quality point option. The total points for the Child Care Star Rated License will be determined at the end of the six (6) months Temporary Time Period. As a reminder, to earn a three-star license and receive subsidy funds, the facility must earn at least a total of seven (7) points. Indicator Month: Discussions occurred regarding the indictor month for annual compliance monitoring visits at a licensed child care facility. I informed L. Tatum when a facility becomes licensed, it is assigned an “annual compliance” month. The annual compliance month is the month in which the facility’s Temporary License was issued (June). I stated the annual compliance month does not change if the facility is issued a 2 – 5 Star License, a Provisional License, or a Probationary License. Child care consultants use the annual compliance month to determine when to schedule each facility’s annual compliance visit. Additionally, representatives of the DCDEE may visit your program at any time and must complete at least one full monitoring visit at least annually. To best support you and the children in care, our goal is to visit programs more frequently. On-going Training: The staff and training worksheets were updated during today’s visit. It is your responsibility to keep the staff and training worksheets current for the consultant to review during annual compliance visits. Reminder: After the first year of employment, the child care administrator and any staff who work with children, shall participate in on-going training activities annually. Refer to child care requirement 09.1103 for the number of required training hours based on education and experience. Visit our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for updated information regarding the child care law and rules, forms, and other pertinent information. If you have questions, please contact me at: (910) 709-4168 or Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-102 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/19/2024 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 9/19/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 215 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a second temporary time period visit. The previous visit was completed on July 23, 2024, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 77% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued June 17, 2024 to December 17, 2024. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Sandra Johnson, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me during today’s visit. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Inspection with nine (9) demerits and a classification of Superior completed July 29, 2024. Fire Inspection, approved for day time care only, dated May 8, 2024. L. Tatum, Administrator, was present and counted in staff/child ratio in Space #1. I explained the purpose of the visit and requested to conduct an unaccompanied walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas. Permission was granted. In Space #1, nonmobile infants played on the carpeted floor with soft blocks, manipulatives, and dolls. A diapering routine was observed. Step #7 in the diapering procedure was omitted. An infant was held for bottle feeding. The bottle of formula was not dated and labeled for the appropriate child. When prompted, the administrator dated and labeled the bottle for the appropriate child. In Space #2, preschool-age children engaged in free play activities. Children stacked wooden blocks, manipulated puzzles and Legos, and looked at books. Afterwards, children participated in personal care routines prior to transitioning outdoors. I observed two coats hanging inside a cubby on two separate hooks touching one another causing contamination. When prompted, L. Leonard removed one of the coats from the storage space and placed it inside a separate cubby. In Space #3, children, ages three and four-years-old, played in the activity areas, and participated in personal care routines. Children played with musical instruments, manipulated circular connectors, and built with Legos. B. Armstrong, teacher, walked around the room, interacted with the children, and encouraged problem-solving, and communication. No children were present in Space #4. The space was monitored for applicable child care requirements. Upon their return indoors, children and staff assigned to Space #3 washed their hands and prepared for meal time. Lunch served was Fish sticks, French fries, sliced whole wheat bread, applesauce, and milk. After lunch, children participated in personal care routines and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Soft music played in the background. Staff files were monitored on July 23, 2024. During today’s visit, I verified the information on file was current/adequate. Children’s files and program records were monitored today. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with L. Tatum. The following violations were observed during the visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, that enrolled in the center on September 19, 2024. GS 110-102 205 Storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. In Space #2, storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. An individual cubby with two hooks was shared by two children. Personal belongings were not stored to prevent contamination. G.S. 110-91(6) 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. A bottle of formula in Space #1 was not dated and labeled for the appropriate child. When prompted, the administrator dated and labeled the bottle of formula for the appropriate child. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. The written feeding plan on file for the child, identified on the children's records worksheet, did not include the parent signature and was not dated when received by the center. .0902(a) 619 Diaper changing surfaces were not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after each use. In Space #1, the diaper changing surface was not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after a diapering routine was completed. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(c) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. Signed acknowledgement that the safe sleep policy was given to and explained to the parent of a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, on or before the first day the infant attended the center (September 19, 2024) was not on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Identifying information for a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, was not in the vehicle during transport. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. A signed acknowledgement that operational policies were discussed with parents on or before the child's first day, September 19, 2024, was not on file for the child, identified on the children's records worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. A signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not on file for a child, identified on the children's records worksheet. The child's date of enrollment was September 19, 2024. .1804(c) 1832 Application did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. The application for a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. The child's date on enrollment was September 19, 2024. .0801 (a)(5) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. The violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00 p.m. on October 3, 2024, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Rhonda Blackmon Lead Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 279 Linden, NC 28356 Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your facility. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a star rated license. Failure to maintain an acceptable compliance history may result in the issuance of administrative action up to and including denial of a full license at the end of the temporary time period. Technical Assistance Specific to Today’s Visit: Children’s Files: Record keeping is one of the most time-consuming tasks associated with administering a child care program. It is an important part of licensure. Review staff and children's files often to ensure the program is maintaining accurate licensing records. Organization and completeness of records is important to ensure easy access to information in emergency situations. We discussed the importance of reviewing all children’s files to ensure accuracy with completion of all required areas of the child's application, signatures on required forms, and items required to be on file on Day 1. As a reminder, the administrator should not sign off on the document until all areas of the form have been addressed. Continue to use the resource from the DCDEE website entitled, “ Children’s File Checklist.” Space/Storage Requirements: Space shall be available for proper storage of beds, cribs, mats, cots, sleeping garments, and linens as well as designated space for each child's personal belongings. Per sanitation requirement 18A .2820(E), individual cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall be provided for storage of coats, hats, or similar items. Coat hooks not in individual cubicles or lockers, shall be spaced at least 12 horizontal inches apart to protect from contamination. We discussed the following strategies for storing children’s personal belongings: purchase additional cubbies that can be mounted to the wall or placed against the wall in Space #2, add additional hooks on the walls and place them at least 18 inches apart to ensure each child’s belongings are protected from contamination, and/or add solid barriers in between the hooks inside the cubbies to prevent the items from touching. Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred regarding the two-component star rated license process on July 23, 2024. On June 28, 2024, the Governor signed Senate Bill 425 (now Session Law 2024-34), Health and Human Services Omnibus Bill, which includes the Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) Modifications recommended to the Legislature by the NC Child Care Commission to update QRIS and create additional pathways for licensed child care facilities to earn star rated licenses. Hold Harmless provisions have been extended and star rated license assessments for licensed child care providers will be conducted by provider request only, until the QRIS rulemaking process has been completed. Star rated license assessments are still required for new child care programs. L. Tatum and I discussed strategies on how to achieve a 3-5 Star Rated License. An application for a star rated license was received today. L. Tatum did not request to have the ERS completed as part of the rated license assessment. Program Standards: The facility meets minimum requirements and enhanced ratios. Education Standards: The staff information sheet for rated license was completed and submitted at the end of today’s visit. As a reminder, all staff education should be current before the fifth month (November 1, 2024) of the temporary time period as a rated license will need to be processed before the end date of the temporary license. Quality Point: L. Tatum and I reviewed and discussed eligibility requirements for the quality point option. The total points for the Child Care Star Rated License will be determined at the end of the six (6) months Temporary Time Period. As a reminder, to earn a three-star license and receive subsidy funds, the facility must earn at least a total of seven (7) points. Indicator Month: Discussions occurred regarding the indictor month for annual compliance monitoring visits at a licensed child care facility. I informed L. Tatum when a facility becomes licensed, it is assigned an “annual compliance” month. The annual compliance month is the month in which the facility’s Temporary License was issued (June). I stated the annual compliance month does not change if the facility is issued a 2 – 5 Star License, a Provisional License, or a Probationary License. Child care consultants use the annual compliance month to determine when to schedule each facility’s annual compliance visit. Additionally, representatives of the DCDEE may visit your program at any time and must complete at least one full monitoring visit at least annually. To best support you and the children in care, our goal is to visit programs more frequently. On-going Training: The staff and training worksheets were updated during today’s visit. It is your responsibility to keep the staff and training worksheets current for the consultant to review during annual compliance visits. Reminder: After the first year of employment, the child care administrator and any staff who work with children, shall participate in on-going training activities annually. Refer to child care requirement 09.1103 for the number of required training hours based on education and experience. Visit our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for updated information regarding the child care law and rules, forms, and other pertinent information. If you have questions, please contact me at: (910) 709-4168 or Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/19/2024 Number Present: 9 Completed Date: 9/19/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 215 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 12:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a second temporary time period visit. The previous visit was completed on July 23, 2024, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 77% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued June 17, 2024 to December 17, 2024. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Sandra Johnson, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me during today’s visit. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Inspection with nine (9) demerits and a classification of Superior completed July 29, 2024. Fire Inspection, approved for day time care only, dated May 8, 2024. L. Tatum, Administrator, was present and counted in staff/child ratio in Space #1. I explained the purpose of the visit and requested to conduct an unaccompanied walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas. Permission was granted. In Space #1, nonmobile infants played on the carpeted floor with soft blocks, manipulatives, and dolls. A diapering routine was observed. Step #7 in the diapering procedure was omitted. An infant was held for bottle feeding. The bottle of formula was not dated and labeled for the appropriate child. When prompted, the administrator dated and labeled the bottle for the appropriate child. In Space #2, preschool-age children engaged in free play activities. Children stacked wooden blocks, manipulated puzzles and Legos, and looked at books. Afterwards, children participated in personal care routines prior to transitioning outdoors. I observed two coats hanging inside a cubby on two separate hooks touching one another causing contamination. When prompted, L. Leonard removed one of the coats from the storage space and placed it inside a separate cubby. In Space #3, children, ages three and four-years-old, played in the activity areas, and participated in personal care routines. Children played with musical instruments, manipulated circular connectors, and built with Legos. B. Armstrong, teacher, walked around the room, interacted with the children, and encouraged problem-solving, and communication. No children were present in Space #4. The space was monitored for applicable child care requirements. Upon their return indoors, children and staff assigned to Space #3 washed their hands and prepared for meal time. Lunch served was Fish sticks, French fries, sliced whole wheat bread, applesauce, and milk. After lunch, children participated in personal care routines and transitioned to their cots for rest time. Soft music played in the background. Staff files were monitored on July 23, 2024. During today’s visit, I verified the information on file was current/adequate. Children’s files and program records were monitored today. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with L. Tatum. The following violations were observed during the visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, that enrolled in the center on September 19, 2024. GS 110-102 205 Storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. In Space #2, storage space was not available for each child's personal belongings. An individual cubby with two hooks was shared by two children. Personal belongings were not stored to prevent contamination. G.S. 110-91(6) 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. A bottle of formula in Space #1 was not dated and labeled for the appropriate child. When prompted, the administrator dated and labeled the bottle of formula for the appropriate child. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. The written feeding plan on file for the child, identified on the children's records worksheet, did not include the parent signature and was not dated when received by the center. .0902(a) 619 Diaper changing surfaces were not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after each use. In Space #1, the diaper changing surface was not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after a diapering routine was completed. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(c) 893 A copy of the safe sleep policy was not given to and/or explained to the parent of each child on or before the first day the infant attended the center. Signed acknowledgement that the safe sleep policy was given to and explained to the parent of a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, on or before the first day the infant attended the center (September 19, 2024) was not on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(c) 1124 Emergency and identifying information, including the child's name, photograph, emergency contact information and/or a copy of the emergency medical care information form was not in the vehicle for each child being transported. Identifying information for a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, was not in the vehicle during transport. 10A NCAC 09 .1003(d) 1203 Operational policies were not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day and/or they were not notified in writing of all changes. A signed acknowledgement that operational policies were discussed with parents on or before the child's first day, September 19, 2024, was not on file for the child, identified on the children's records worksheet. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(b) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. A signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not on file for a child, identified on the children's records worksheet. The child's date of enrollment was September 19, 2024. .1804(c) 1832 Application did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. The application for a child, identified on the children's records worksheet, did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. The child's date on enrollment was September 19, 2024. .0801 (a)(5) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. The violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00 p.m. on October 3, 2024, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Rhonda Blackmon Lead Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 279 Linden, NC 28356 Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your facility. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a star rated license. Failure to maintain an acceptable compliance history may result in the issuance of administrative action up to and including denial of a full license at the end of the temporary time period. Technical Assistance Specific to Today’s Visit: Children’s Files: Record keeping is one of the most time-consuming tasks associated with administering a child care program. It is an important part of licensure. Review staff and children's files often to ensure the program is maintaining accurate licensing records. Organization and completeness of records is important to ensure easy access to information in emergency situations. We discussed the importance of reviewing all children’s files to ensure accuracy with completion of all required areas of the child's application, signatures on required forms, and items required to be on file on Day 1. As a reminder, the administrator should not sign off on the document until all areas of the form have been addressed. Continue to use the resource from the DCDEE website entitled, “ Children’s File Checklist.” Space/Storage Requirements: Space shall be available for proper storage of beds, cribs, mats, cots, sleeping garments, and linens as well as designated space for each child's personal belongings. Per sanitation requirement 18A .2820(E), individual cubicles, lockers, or coat hooks shall be provided for storage of coats, hats, or similar items. Coat hooks not in individual cubicles or lockers, shall be spaced at least 12 horizontal inches apart to protect from contamination. We discussed the following strategies for storing children’s personal belongings: purchase additional cubbies that can be mounted to the wall or placed against the wall in Space #2, add additional hooks on the walls and place them at least 18 inches apart to ensure each child’s belongings are protected from contamination, and/or add solid barriers in between the hooks inside the cubbies to prevent the items from touching. Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred regarding the two-component star rated license process on July 23, 2024. On June 28, 2024, the Governor signed Senate Bill 425 (now Session Law 2024-34), Health and Human Services Omnibus Bill, which includes the Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) Modifications recommended to the Legislature by the NC Child Care Commission to update QRIS and create additional pathways for licensed child care facilities to earn star rated licenses. Hold Harmless provisions have been extended and star rated license assessments for licensed child care providers will be conducted by provider request only, until the QRIS rulemaking process has been completed. Star rated license assessments are still required for new child care programs. L. Tatum and I discussed strategies on how to achieve a 3-5 Star Rated License. An application for a star rated license was received today. L. Tatum did not request to have the ERS completed as part of the rated license assessment. Program Standards: The facility meets minimum requirements and enhanced ratios. Education Standards: The staff information sheet for rated license was completed and submitted at the end of today’s visit. As a reminder, all staff education should be current before the fifth month (November 1, 2024) of the temporary time period as a rated license will need to be processed before the end date of the temporary license. Quality Point: L. Tatum and I reviewed and discussed eligibility requirements for the quality point option. The total points for the Child Care Star Rated License will be determined at the end of the six (6) months Temporary Time Period. As a reminder, to earn a three-star license and receive subsidy funds, the facility must earn at least a total of seven (7) points. Indicator Month: Discussions occurred regarding the indictor month for annual compliance monitoring visits at a licensed child care facility. I informed L. Tatum when a facility becomes licensed, it is assigned an “annual compliance” month. The annual compliance month is the month in which the facility’s Temporary License was issued (June). I stated the annual compliance month does not change if the facility is issued a 2 – 5 Star License, a Provisional License, or a Probationary License. Child care consultants use the annual compliance month to determine when to schedule each facility’s annual compliance visit. Additionally, representatives of the DCDEE may visit your program at any time and must complete at least one full monitoring visit at least annually. To best support you and the children in care, our goal is to visit programs more frequently. On-going Training: The staff and training worksheets were updated during today’s visit. It is your responsibility to keep the staff and training worksheets current for the consultant to review during annual compliance visits. Reminder: After the first year of employment, the child care administrator and any staff who work with children, shall participate in on-going training activities annually. Refer to child care requirement 09.1103 for the number of required training hours based on education and experience. Visit our website: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for updated information regarding the child care law and rules, forms, and other pertinent information. If you have questions, please contact me at: (910) 709-4168 or Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/23/2024 Number Present: 6 Completed Date: 7/23/2024 Age: From 2 To 8 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a first temporary time period visit. The previous visit was completed on June 7, 2024, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 100% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued June 17, 2024 to December 17, 2024. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Sandra Johnson, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me during today’s visit. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Inspection with two (2) demerits and a classification of Superior completed May 21, 2024. Fire Inspection, approved for day time care only, dated May 8, 2024. L. Tatum, Administrator, was present and counted in staff/child ratio in Space #4. I explained the purpose of the visit and requested to conduct an unaccompanied walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas. There was no enrollment record for Space #1. In Space #2, L. Leonard read a book entitled, “Little Blue Truck Leads the Way” to a child, two-years-old. L. Leonard engaged the child in conversation and asked open-ended questions. After story time, the child manipulated Legos and played with musical toys. I observed packets of Benzalkonium Chloride cleanse wound wipes to prevent infection stored inside the first aid kit in Space #2. When prompted, the wipes were removed from the first aid kit and placed in locked storage. Additionally, a container with foam blocks were stored inside the shelving unit accessible to the two-year-old child. When prompted, the foam shape blocks were removed from the active play area and made inaccessible to children less than three-years-old. In Space #3, children, ages three and four-years-old, played in the activity areas, and participated in personal care routines. Children manipulated playdough with cookie cutters, built with Legos, and cooked on the pretend stove. B. Armstrong, teacher, walked around the room, interacted with the children, and encouraged problem-solving, and communication. A child, three years old, fell asleep during free play activities and B. Armstrong made accommodations for the child to rest/sleep. The activity plan in Space #3 was incomplete and the block/block building area did not have materials and equipment in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children chose the same or different activities. In Space #4, school-age children played a game of “Sorry” and colored at the table. The following items were stored inside the unlocked first aid kit, accessible to the children in care: Benzalkonium Chloride Cleanse wound wipes to prevent infection, Sting Relief Medicated pads, Povidone-Iodine Prep Pads, and alcohol wipes. When prompted, the items were removed from the first aid kit and placed inside the locked storage room. After free play, the children cleaned up and transitioned outdoors. While in the outdoor learning environment, children threw balls, climbed on the non-stationary equipment, and played “Freeze Tag.” Upon their return indoors, children and staff washed their hands and prepared for meal time. Lunch served was pepperoni and cheese pizza rolls, sweet corn, fruit cocktail, and milk. After lunch, children participated in personal care routines and transitioned to their cots for rest time. In the unlocked staff restroom, there was an aerosol dispenser of Febreze Air Mist Berry Bramble sitting on top of the paper towel dispenser. When prompted, L. Tatum removed the aerosol dispenser and placed it inside the locked storage room next to the staff bathroom. Three staff files and three children’s files were monitored today. In addition, required center program records were also monitored. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with L. Tatum. The following violations were observed during the visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 431 The activity plan did not provide at least 4 different activities daily listed in GS 110-91(12): art/creative play; books; blocks; manipulatives; and family living and dramatic play, including one of which is outdoors if weather conditions permit. The activity plan posted in Space #3 did not provide at least 4 different activities daily listed in GS 110-91(12). .0508(g)(2) 468 When three year old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. In Space #3, the materials and equipment in the Block/Block Building area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. There was one container of small wooden blocks, two push vehicles, and an assortment of plastic tools. .0510(d)(1) 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 dispenser of Febreze Air Mist was stored on top of the paper towel dispenser in the unlocked staff restroom. When prompted, staff removed the aerosol dispenser from the restroom and placed it inside the locked storage room next to the restroom. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. Non-prescription medications (Benzalkonium Chloride Cleanse wound wipes to prevent infection, Sting Relief Medicated pads, Povidone-Iodine Prep Pads, and alcohol wipes) were stored inside the unlocked first aid kits in Spaces #2 and #4. When prompted, staff removed the medications from the first aid kits and placed them inside locked storage. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 861 Prohibited styrofoam and foam rubber products were accessible to children under 3 years of age and/or approved foam products were used without proper supervision. In Space #2, foam rubber blocks were accessible to children under 3 years of age. When prompted, the foam blocks were removed from the active play area and made inaccessible to the child, two years old. .0604(q) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. The violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00 p.m. on August 6, 2024, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Rhonda Blackmon Lead Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 279 Linden, NC 28356 Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your facility. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a star rated license. Failure to maintain an acceptable compliance history may result in the issuance of administrative action up to and including denial of a full license at the end of the temporary time period. Technical Assistance Specific to Today’s Visit: Activity Plan: Complete weekly or monthly activity plans (dated) that include developmentally appropriate activities for enrolled children. Activity plans for all children must meet the following minimum licensing requirements: *Include activities daily to stimulate the following five developmental domains, as listed in your NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development book: (social &emotional development, health & physical development, approaches to play and learning, language development / communication, and cognitive development). *Include a daily gross motor activity which may occur indoors or outdoors. *Reflect at least four activities daily (one of which is gross motor), one of which is offered outdoors, weather permitting. The remaining three activities should occur in the following areas (art/creative play, children’s books, blocks and block building, manipulatives, and family living/dramatic play). *Include both free choice and adult-directed activities, which allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, in a small group or independently. *In addition, activity plans must include each of these three enrichment activities on at least a weekly basis: sand or water play; science and nature; and music and rhythm. A sample lesson plan form containing all required components was provided. *Materials and equipment must be available both inside and outside to support the activities on the activity plan and the daily schedule. Storage of Hazardous Items: Intentional planning of the environment ensures a safe environment has been created which prevents and reduces injuries to young children. Items that require locked storage were improperly stored and are as follows: aerosol dispenser of Febreze Air Mist and over-the-counter medications. Please be reminded, these items must be stored in locked storage. Consider posting reminder signs to alert staff about the importance of locking aerosol spray can products up after each use. Both prescription and over-the-counter medicines can help manage health conditions and relieve symptoms of illness. Medicines can have toxic effects if too much is taken or if unintentionally ingested by children or applied to a child without written consent. Each year, approximately 50,000 children younger than 6 years are brought to emergency departments after unintentionally taking medicine when a caregiver was not watching. Most (75%) of these exposures involve 1- or 2-year-old children. According to Sanitation Rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d): Medications including prescription and non-prescription items shall be stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container and shall not be stored above food. Designated emergency medications shall be stored out of reach of children but are not required to be in locked storage. Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred regarding the two-component star rated license. I informed L. Tatum that the enhanced standards are based on two components: education and program standards. The requirements to complete for each point level in both education and the program standards were reviewed. A packet of forms, brochures, and technical assistance handouts were reviewed and emailed to L. Tatum. The forms identified staff education requirements, program requirements, and options to achieve a Quality Point. NC Rated License Assessment Project (NC-RLAP): The NC-RLAP website has a wealth of information on the Environment Rating Scales and overall quality issues for child care. You can download NC Additional Notes for each of the scales and find additional information that will help you with your assessment. Training videos are available on the following topics: Overview of the Assessment Process, Using Materials with Non-Mobile Infants, A Safe Place for Gross Motor Play, Hand washing and Other Basic Health Considerations, and Language for Learning. NC-RLAP also offers free webinars to provide training and information about the Environment Rating Scales. Access to the webinars requires a computer with a high-speed internet connection and a phone. The webinars are typically offered between 1:00 - 1:45 PM, a typical napping time in most child care programs. To register for a session, call 1-866-3NCRLAP (1-866-362-7527). Registration will close the day before the webinar, so please do not wait until the morning of the webinar to register. There must be at least seven participants signed up for the session, or it may be cancelled. To access resources or information on webinars, go to www.ncrlap.org. WORKS is a self-service applicant portal that will be used by an individual applicant to register and maintain their workforce information to support education requirements. The WORKS portal is available online and requires the user to maintain an individual North Carolina Identity Management (NCID) username and password. All paperwork, except for official transcripts, will no longer be submitted to the Workforce Education Unit. These documents will be uploaded using WORKS via each applicant’s WORKS account. All staff education should be current before the fifth month (November) of the temporary time period. For more information about NCID and WORKS, visit the DCDEE website at www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov to view more information under the DCDEE WORKS tab http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/general/mb_dcdeeworks.asp. You can also contact the Workforce Education Unit at 1-800-859-0829 (In State Only) or 919-527-6600 for more information concerning WORKS. The Partnership for Children of Cumberland County offers on-site technical assistance to child care programs. Types of technical assistance provided include observation and assessment and support and mentoring visits. For more information, contact Mary Welch, CCR&R Program Manager at (910) 867-9700 or visit www.ccpfc.org. Training: Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment. Complete the health and safety training record as found on the DCDEE website. After the first year, staff must complete the health and safety training topics at least once every five years. Child care staff are expected to be well informed about child abuse and neglect issues and adequately trained to prevent and recognize potential maltreatment. The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org. Additionally, staff who are responsible for supervising groups of school-age children (group leaders) shall be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or its equivalent prior to employment and shall complete the BSAC training within three months of becoming employed. Documentation of training must be kept on file for review. Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR): One staff member from the facility is required to complete the Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training within one year of licensure. Once the training has been completed, the individual will have four (4) months to go online and complete the EPR Plan. Fire drills will continue to be completed monthly, but the administrator will also begin completing lock down drills or shelter in place drills. The trained staff shall review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changes to ensure all information is current. All staff shall review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review shall be maintained on file. The template for the EPR plan can be found at: https://rmp.nc.gov/portal/portal.aspx. On-going Training: The staff and training worksheets were updated during today’s visit. It is your responsibility to keep the staff and training worksheets current for the consultant to review during annual compliance visits. Reminder: After the first year of employment, the child care administrator and any staff who work with children shall participate in on-going training activities annually. Refer to child care requirement 09.1103 for the number of required training hours based on education and experience. The DCDEE has a new initiative – Natural Outdoor Learning Initiative. Through this initiative, we hope to increase knowledge and confidence for everyone in developing and implementing best practices to support the creation, programming, and safe use of naturalized outdoor spaces in child care facilities. You can learn more by visiting the NLI website, where you will also find many resources, including an updated Toolkit designed to help you enhance your outdoor learning environment. The downloadable NLI Toolkit is available at: https://naturalearning.org/preschool-outdoor-toolkit If you have questions, please contact me at (910) 709-4168. 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: Creative Blocks For Tots Learning Center Facility ID: 26002601 Consultant: RHONDA BLACKMON Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/23/2024 Number Present: 6 Completed Date: 7/23/2024 Age: From 2 To 8 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements pertinent to a first temporary time period visit. The previous visit was completed on June 7, 2024, and prior to today’s visit, the eighteen-month compliance history score was 100% as required by North Carolina General Statute 110-90(4)(c-d). This program currently operates with a Temporary License issued June 17, 2024 to December 17, 2024. The information on record with DCDEE was verified as correct by Latoya Tatum and the owner’s corporation status was verified on the Secretary of State’s website as current-active. Sandra Johnson, Child Care Consultant, accompanied me during today’s visit. Current Inspections are as follows: Sanitation Inspection with two (2) demerits and a classification of Superior completed May 21, 2024. Fire Inspection, approved for day time care only, dated May 8, 2024. L. Tatum, Administrator, was present and counted in staff/child ratio in Space #4. I explained the purpose of the visit and requested to conduct an unaccompanied walk-through of the indoor and outdoor areas. There was no enrollment record for Space #1. In Space #2, L. Leonard read a book entitled, “Little Blue Truck Leads the Way” to a child, two-years-old. L. Leonard engaged the child in conversation and asked open-ended questions. After story time, the child manipulated Legos and played with musical toys. I observed packets of Benzalkonium Chloride cleanse wound wipes to prevent infection stored inside the first aid kit in Space #2. When prompted, the wipes were removed from the first aid kit and placed in locked storage. Additionally, a container with foam blocks were stored inside the shelving unit accessible to the two-year-old child. When prompted, the foam shape blocks were removed from the active play area and made inaccessible to children less than three-years-old. In Space #3, children, ages three and four-years-old, played in the activity areas, and participated in personal care routines. Children manipulated playdough with cookie cutters, built with Legos, and cooked on the pretend stove. B. Armstrong, teacher, walked around the room, interacted with the children, and encouraged problem-solving, and communication. A child, three years old, fell asleep during free play activities and B. Armstrong made accommodations for the child to rest/sleep. The activity plan in Space #3 was incomplete and the block/block building area did not have materials and equipment in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children chose the same or different activities. In Space #4, school-age children played a game of “Sorry” and colored at the table. The following items were stored inside the unlocked first aid kit, accessible to the children in care: Benzalkonium Chloride Cleanse wound wipes to prevent infection, Sting Relief Medicated pads, Povidone-Iodine Prep Pads, and alcohol wipes. When prompted, the items were removed from the first aid kit and placed inside the locked storage room. After free play, the children cleaned up and transitioned outdoors. While in the outdoor learning environment, children threw balls, climbed on the non-stationary equipment, and played “Freeze Tag.” Upon their return indoors, children and staff washed their hands and prepared for meal time. Lunch served was pepperoni and cheese pizza rolls, sweet corn, fruit cocktail, and milk. After lunch, children participated in personal care routines and transitioned to their cots for rest time. In the unlocked staff restroom, there was an aerosol dispenser of Febreze Air Mist Berry Bramble sitting on top of the paper towel dispenser. When prompted, L. Tatum removed the aerosol dispenser and placed it inside the locked storage room next to the staff bathroom. Three staff files and three children’s files were monitored today. In addition, required center program records were also monitored. At the completion of the visit, the Visit Summary was reviewed with L. Tatum. The following violations were observed during the visit: Violation Number Comment Rule 431 The activity plan did not provide at least 4 different activities daily listed in GS 110-91(12): art/creative play; books; blocks; manipulatives; and family living and dramatic play, including one of which is outdoors if weather conditions permit. The activity plan posted in Space #3 did not provide at least 4 different activities daily listed in GS 110-91(12). .0508(g)(2) 468 When three year old children and older were in care, the materials and equipment in the activity area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. In Space #3, the materials and equipment in the Block/Block Building area was not in sufficient quantity to allow at least three children to use the area regardless of whether the children choose the same or different activities. There was one container of small wooden blocks, two push vehicles, and an assortment of plastic tools. .0510(d)(1) 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 dispenser of Febreze Air Mist was stored on top of the paper towel dispenser in the unlocked staff restroom. When prompted, staff removed the aerosol dispenser from the restroom and placed it inside the locked storage room next to the restroom. .2820(b) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. Non-prescription medications (Benzalkonium Chloride Cleanse wound wipes to prevent infection, Sting Relief Medicated pads, Povidone-Iodine Prep Pads, and alcohol wipes) were stored inside the unlocked first aid kits in Spaces #2 and #4. When prompted, staff removed the medications from the first aid kits and placed them inside locked storage. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 861 Prohibited styrofoam and foam rubber products were accessible to children under 3 years of age and/or approved foam products were used without proper supervision. In Space #2, foam rubber blocks were accessible to children under 3 years of age. When prompted, the foam blocks were removed from the active play area and made inaccessible to the child, two years old. .0604(q) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. The violations observed and documented today may impact the compliance history score. The violations observed and documented today must be corrected immediately. Additionally, by 5:00 p.m. on August 6, 2024, you must submit a written, dated, and signed statement to me. The statement must describe accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If the letter states that corrections have been made when they have not, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Rhonda Blackmon Lead Child Care Consultant P.O. Box 279 Linden, NC 28356 Rhonda.blackmon@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, you must include a signature block, which contains your name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 The compliance history is based on violations that are cited during visits to your facility. If you have an acceptable compliance history at the end of your temporary license you will be eligible to apply for a star rated license. Failure to maintain an acceptable compliance history may result in the issuance of administrative action up to and including denial of a full license at the end of the temporary time period. Technical Assistance Specific to Today’s Visit: Activity Plan: Complete weekly or monthly activity plans (dated) that include developmentally appropriate activities for enrolled children. Activity plans for all children must meet the following minimum licensing requirements: *Include activities daily to stimulate the following five developmental domains, as listed in your NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development book: (social &emotional development, health & physical development, approaches to play and learning, language development / communication, and cognitive development). *Include a daily gross motor activity which may occur indoors or outdoors. *Reflect at least four activities daily (one of which is gross motor), one of which is offered outdoors, weather permitting. The remaining three activities should occur in the following areas (art/creative play, children’s books, blocks and block building, manipulatives, and family living/dramatic play). *Include both free choice and adult-directed activities, which allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, in a small group or independently. *In addition, activity plans must include each of these three enrichment activities on at least a weekly basis: sand or water play; science and nature; and music and rhythm. A sample lesson plan form containing all required components was provided. *Materials and equipment must be available both inside and outside to support the activities on the activity plan and the daily schedule. Storage of Hazardous Items: Intentional planning of the environment ensures a safe environment has been created which prevents and reduces injuries to young children. Items that require locked storage were improperly stored and are as follows: aerosol dispenser of Febreze Air Mist and over-the-counter medications. Please be reminded, these items must be stored in locked storage. Consider posting reminder signs to alert staff about the importance of locking aerosol spray can products up after each use. Both prescription and over-the-counter medicines can help manage health conditions and relieve symptoms of illness. Medicines can have toxic effects if too much is taken or if unintentionally ingested by children or applied to a child without written consent. Each year, approximately 50,000 children younger than 6 years are brought to emergency departments after unintentionally taking medicine when a caregiver was not watching. Most (75%) of these exposures involve 1- or 2-year-old children. According to Sanitation Rule 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d): Medications including prescription and non-prescription items shall be stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container and shall not be stored above food. Designated emergency medications shall be stored out of reach of children but are not required to be in locked storage. Rated License Assessment: Discussions occurred regarding the two-component star rated license. I informed L. Tatum that the enhanced standards are based on two components: education and program standards. The requirements to complete for each point level in both education and the program standards were reviewed. A packet of forms, brochures, and technical assistance handouts were reviewed and emailed to L. Tatum. The forms identified staff education requirements, program requirements, and options to achieve a Quality Point. NC Rated License Assessment Project (NC-RLAP): The NC-RLAP website has a wealth of information on the Environment Rating Scales and overall quality issues for child care. You can download NC Additional Notes for each of the scales and find additional information that will help you with your assessment. Training videos are available on the following topics: Overview of the Assessment Process, Using Materials with Non-Mobile Infants, A Safe Place for Gross Motor Play, Hand washing and Other Basic Health Considerations, and Language for Learning. NC-RLAP also offers free webinars to provide training and information about the Environment Rating Scales. Access to the webinars requires a computer with a high-speed internet connection and a phone. The webinars are typically offered between 1:00 - 1:45 PM, a typical napping time in most child care programs. To register for a session, call 1-866-3NCRLAP (1-866-362-7527). Registration will close the day before the webinar, so please do not wait until the morning of the webinar to register. There must be at least seven participants signed up for the session, or it may be cancelled. To access resources or information on webinars, go to www.ncrlap.org. WORKS is a self-service applicant portal that will be used by an individual applicant to register and maintain their workforce information to support education requirements. The WORKS portal is available online and requires the user to maintain an individual North Carolina Identity Management (NCID) username and password. All paperwork, except for official transcripts, will no longer be submitted to the Workforce Education Unit. These documents will be uploaded using WORKS via each applicant’s WORKS account. All staff education should be current before the fifth month (November) of the temporary time period. For more information about NCID and WORKS, visit the DCDEE website at www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov to view more information under the DCDEE WORKS tab http://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/general/mb_dcdeeworks.asp. You can also contact the Workforce Education Unit at 1-800-859-0829 (In State Only) or 919-527-6600 for more information concerning WORKS. The Partnership for Children of Cumberland County offers on-site technical assistance to child care programs. Types of technical assistance provided include observation and assessment and support and mentoring visits. For more information, contact Mary Welch, CCR&R Program Manager at (910) 867-9700 or visit www.ccpfc.org. Training: Child care administrators and staff members shall complete health and safety training within one year of employment unless the staff member has completed the training within the year prior to beginning employment. Complete the health and safety training record as found on the DCDEE website. After the first year, staff must complete the health and safety training topics at least once every five years. Child care staff are expected to be well informed about child abuse and neglect issues and adequately trained to prevent and recognize potential maltreatment. The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org. Additionally, staff who are responsible for supervising groups of school-age children (group leaders) shall be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or its equivalent prior to employment and shall complete the BSAC training within three months of becoming employed. Documentation of training must be kept on file for review. Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR): One staff member from the facility is required to complete the Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training within one year of licensure. Once the training has been completed, the individual will have four (4) months to go online and complete the EPR Plan. Fire drills will continue to be completed monthly, but the administrator will also begin completing lock down drills or shelter in place drills. The trained staff shall review the EPR Plan annually or when information in the plan changes to ensure all information is current. All staff shall review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review shall be maintained on file. The template for the EPR plan can be found at: https://rmp.nc.gov/portal/portal.aspx. On-going Training: The staff and training worksheets were updated during today’s visit. It is your responsibility to keep the staff and training worksheets current for the consultant to review during annual compliance visits. Reminder: After the first year of employment, the child care administrator and any staff who work with children shall participate in on-going training activities annually. Refer to child care requirement 09.1103 for the number of required training hours based on education and experience. The DCDEE has a new initiative – Natural Outdoor Learning Initiative. Through this initiative, we hope to increase knowledge and confidence for everyone in developing and implementing best practices to support the creation, programming, and safe use of naturalized outdoor spaces in child care facilities. You can learn more by visiting the NLI website, where you will also find many resources, including an updated Toolkit designed to help you enhance your outdoor learning environment. The downloadable NLI Toolkit is available at: https://naturalearning.org/preschool-outdoor-toolkit If you have questions, please contact me at (910) 709-4168. 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