Children'S Castle Child Care, Inc.

10A NCAC 09. 1801 · Violation

Name of Operation: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: HEATHER ELLIOTT Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0426-276L Visit Date: 6/11/2026 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 6/11/2026 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 125 Time In: 12:25 PM Time Out: 02:30 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 for an administrative action follow-up visit, including the Corrective Action Plan included in the written warning issued by the DCDEE to this facility on May 21, 2026. Your program currently operates with a 4-star license, issued July 25,2019. Restrictions on your permit include capacity of 145 for first and second shift, meets enhanced ratios and space, and Ajay Goyal is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. As of today, the center’s compliance history is 89%. Upon arrival, A. Reynolds, Administrator, was present and available for consultation. Ms. Reynolds was giving a staff member a break and was in a classroom during the facility walk-through and observations. There were five (5) classrooms open and being used for care today. Currently 63 children enrolled and 55 children were present. Children ranged in age from 0 to 10 years old. In space 2,infants were being cared for based on their individual needs. Three one-year-old children were napping on mats, and two infants were asleep in their individual cribs. Sleep checks were monitored and found in compliance. Infant aged children from Space 1 were combined with Space 2 today. In space 3, 4, 5, and 6, children were asleep on their individual cots with blankets. Soft music was playing and the environment was conducive for sleep. There were no new staff members hired from the last visit. On April 28, 2026, a Child Care Consultant from the Division of Child Development and Early Education visited Children’s Castle Child Care, Inc, regarding alleged violations of child care requirements related to concerns with supervision and children in an unsafe environment. The allegation regarding supervision was confirmed. Four violations of child care requirements were observed and documented regarding supervision, safe environment, plastic bags, and safe sleep checks. Stipulation- Immediately after receipt, this Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter, and Corrective Action Plan must be posted for three months and until receipt of a closure letter from the Division of Child Development and Early Education stating that the Corrective Action Plan has been completed. Today, the Administrative Action and information was posted on the parent board at the entrance into the center. Correction Action Plan: We reviewed each stipulation of this plan. The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with the applicable child care requirements including, but not limited to, Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09. 1801 regarding supervision. Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, A. Reynolds shall contact Jennifer Garner, Lead Child Care Consultant, to arrange for a complete review of all child care requirements. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in this mandatory training. Ms. Reynolds contacted Ms. Garner to schedule a rules review on May 29, 2026. A complete rules review is scheduled to be conducted on June 22, 2026. Within one (1) week after review of child care requirements, Ms. Reynolds shall review and revise the facility’s written supervision policy and procedures. The written policy and procedures shall be submitted to me, Heather Elliott, Child Care Consultant, for approval or if modifications are needed. Once you, Ms. Reynolds, receive orally and in writing that the stipulation has been met, the policies and procedures shall be implemented immediately and incorporated into the operating procedures. A copy of the written policy and procedures shall be maintained with your facility’s files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. Ms. Reynolds sent updated policies for review to Ms. Elliott on June 2, 2026. Within one (1) week, after notification from the Division that the stipulation has been met for the policy and procedures related to supervision, Ms. Reynolds shall conduct a staff meeting with all staff members to discuss the supervision policy and procedures. 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. Today 1 violation was observed and documented. The violation was corrected immediately, so no compliance letter is needed. Violation Number Comment Rule 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In space 4, an aerosol can of Lysol was stored in an unlocked cabinet accessible to children. .2820(b) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation documented was corrected immediately and therefore no compliance letter is needed. Technical Assistance: Today in Space 4, an aerosol can of Lysol was found in a cabinet locked with an unapproved lock, accessible to children. Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications, must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key, magnet, or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. Today I suggested looking through all the classrooms to ensure that all hazardous materials are locked with an approved lock. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education’s website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed with you, emailed to you, copies printed and signed. If you have any questions or concerns, you may contact me at heather.elliott@dhhs.nc.gov/ (910) 364-8728 or my supervisor, Kim Sherry at kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov / (910) 824-0470. 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: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: HEATHER ELLIOTT Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0426-276L Visit Date: 6/11/2026 Number Present: 55 Completed Date: 6/11/2026 Age: From 0 To 10 Total Minutes: 125 Time In: 12:25 PM Time Out: 02:30 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 for an administrative action follow-up visit, including the Corrective Action Plan included in the written warning issued by the DCDEE to this facility on May 21, 2026. Your program currently operates with a 4-star license, issued July 25,2019. Restrictions on your permit include capacity of 145 for first and second shift, meets enhanced ratios and space, and Ajay Goyal is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. As of today, the center’s compliance history is 89%. Upon arrival, A. Reynolds, Administrator, was present and available for consultation. Ms. Reynolds was giving a staff member a break and was in a classroom during the facility walk-through and observations. There were five (5) classrooms open and being used for care today. Currently 63 children enrolled and 55 children were present. Children ranged in age from 0 to 10 years old. In space 2,infants were being cared for based on their individual needs. Three one-year-old children were napping on mats, and two infants were asleep in their individual cribs. Sleep checks were monitored and found in compliance. Infant aged children from Space 1 were combined with Space 2 today. In space 3, 4, 5, and 6, children were asleep on their individual cots with blankets. Soft music was playing and the environment was conducive for sleep. There were no new staff members hired from the last visit. On April 28, 2026, a Child Care Consultant from the Division of Child Development and Early Education visited Children’s Castle Child Care, Inc, regarding alleged violations of child care requirements related to concerns with supervision and children in an unsafe environment. The allegation regarding supervision was confirmed. Four violations of child care requirements were observed and documented regarding supervision, safe environment, plastic bags, and safe sleep checks. Stipulation- Immediately after receipt, this Notice of Administrative Action, cover letter, and Corrective Action Plan must be posted for three months and until receipt of a closure letter from the Division of Child Development and Early Education stating that the Corrective Action Plan has been completed. Today, the Administrative Action and information was posted on the parent board at the entrance into the center. Correction Action Plan: We reviewed each stipulation of this plan. The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with the applicable child care requirements including, but not limited to, Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09. 1801 regarding supervision. Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, A. Reynolds shall contact Jennifer Garner, Lead Child Care Consultant, to arrange for a complete review of all child care requirements. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in this mandatory training. Ms. Reynolds contacted Ms. Garner to schedule a rules review on May 29, 2026. A complete rules review is scheduled to be conducted on June 22, 2026. Within one (1) week after review of child care requirements, Ms. Reynolds shall review and revise the facility’s written supervision policy and procedures. The written policy and procedures shall be submitted to me, Heather Elliott, Child Care Consultant, for approval or if modifications are needed. Once you, Ms. Reynolds, receive orally and in writing that the stipulation has been met, the policies and procedures shall be implemented immediately and incorporated into the operating procedures. A copy of the written policy and procedures shall be maintained with your facility’s files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. Ms. Reynolds sent updated policies for review to Ms. Elliott on June 2, 2026. Within one (1) week, after notification from the Division that the stipulation has been met for the policy and procedures related to supervision, Ms. Reynolds shall conduct a staff meeting with all staff members to discuss the supervision policy and procedures. 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. Today 1 violation was observed and documented. The violation was corrected immediately, so no compliance letter is needed. Violation Number Comment Rule 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. In space 4, an aerosol can of Lysol was stored in an unlocked cabinet accessible to children. .2820(b) Child care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4)(d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation documented was corrected immediately and therefore no compliance letter is needed. Technical Assistance: Today in Space 4, an aerosol can of Lysol was found in a cabinet locked with an unapproved lock, accessible to children. Please review child care rules regarding storage and accessibility of potentially hazardous items. Items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” with no other warnings must be stored at a minimum of five feet off the floor. Hazardous cleaning supplies, including those kept under pressure in an aerosol can, as well as medications, must be kept in locked storage. The definition of locked storage requires that the lock be unlocked with some type of device such as a key, magnet, or combination. Regular childproofing locks do not meet this requirement. Ensure that all cleaning supplies and other items labeled “Keep out of reach of children” are kept inaccessible while children are in care. Today I suggested looking through all the classrooms to ensure that all hazardous materials are locked with an approved lock. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education’s website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was reviewed with you, emailed to you, copies printed and signed. If you have any questions or concerns, you may contact me at heather.elliott@dhhs.nc.gov/ (910) 364-8728 or my supervisor, Kim Sherry at kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov / (910) 824-0470. 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: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: HEATHER ELLIOTT Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0426-276L Visit Date: 4/28/2026 Number Present: 52 Completed Date: 4/28/2026 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 245 Time In: 01:20 PM Time Out: 05:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to investigate a report alleging violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: Allegation #1: There are concerns that children are not being provided with adequate supervision. Allegation#2: There are concerns that children are an unsafe environment. The facility currently operates with a Four-Star License, issued July 25, 2019. Restrictions on the permit include a capacity of 145, age range from 0-12 years old, first and second shift care, meeting enhanced ratios and enhanced space, and Ajay Goyal is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. Restrictions were in compliance today. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 26, 2025. As of today, your facility had an 18-month compliance history score, which was 94%. In addition to the allegations, Supervision, Staff/Child Ratios, Adequate/Approved Space, New Staff Files and Permit Restrictions were monitored. Limited monitoring occurred. Upon arrival, you, Asha Reynolds, administrator, was on break and returned quickly. Ms. Reynolds then accompanied me with the walk-through and available for today’s visit. There were 74 children enrolled and 52 children present ranging from 0-12 years old. All classrooms were observed and monitored. Daily schedules and activity plans were posted in each classroom. Infants received care based on their individual needs. In space 1, one infant was sleeping and two infants were participating in individual care routines. In space 2, children were exploring their space and interacting with the teacher. A variety of age-appropriate toys were available for the children to explore. In space 3,4, and 5 children were napping on individual cots and blankets. Lights were off and soft music was playing. After rest time, children participated in personal care routines and prepared for snack. Space 4 and 5 transitioned after snack and children were observed playing outside with a variety of gross motor toys. In space 3, children were observed in free play, playing in centers including but not limited to manipulatives, dramatic play, blocks, and reading centers. Children in space 8 arrived later in the visit. They transitioned from the van and washed hands to prepare for snack. For snack, cheese, crackers and water were served. In space 8, children were observed playing board games, doing homework, reading, and participating in different art activities. Teachers were adequately supervising children. Investigation: The allegation was discussed with administrators and four staff members. You were all given the opportunity to state your perceptions of the allegation and to share any pertinent information. The facility does have cameras, however administration does not have access and stated that it is live feed only. Findings- Allegation #1 There are concerns that children were not being provided with adequate supervision. The administrative staff reported that staff are not allowed to have cell phones or air pods while in the classroom. Staff have been informed of the facility’s expectations, and it is also in the facility’s policy and procedures. According to the policy, cell phones should be locked up in their lockers in the staff break room or locked in their car during the duration of the workday. Administration stated that a verbal warning will be given to staff if they use their cell phone. Administration reported that a staff member was observed on her cell phone while actively supervising 16 3–5-year-old children with one other staff member present on the playground. The administrator made an announcement over the walkie-talkie to remind staff that at no time should any staff member, while actively supervising children, be on their phone and instruct them to get off. It was reported that the staff member did not hear the administrator’s announcement and continued her conversation. The administrator attempted to confront the staff member, and the staff member appeared mad. The staff member’s co-teacher called for administration after observing the staff member packing up her things. When administration walked into the classroom, the staff member walked out and quit. Staff members reported that they are not allowed to have their cellphones on them or to use them while they are supervising children. If they are seen with their phone or air pods in their ears, they are first asked to remove them and to lock them up. All staff members stated that if it continues, they do get written up. All staff members stated that cell phone use prohibits adequate supervision. When asked how they would respond if they observed a co-worker on the phone, all staff members reported they would tell the staff members to get off the phone and wait until their break to use the phone. The administration stated that when an incident occurs, such as an injury from the neck up, involving blood, or any incident or situation that they feel may need medical attention, she immediately contacts the parent. The administration reported that when an incident occurs, the teacher is expected to immediately go and assist the child and assess the situation. If an incident involves head injuries, blood, or they need assistance they call the office and the administrator will go help and determine whether additional medical attention is necessary. If the parent needs to be contacted, administration is the designated person responsible for making the call. The teacher will complete the incident report and have the parent to review and sign at pick-up. The administrator reported there have been previous incidents in which children fell and have hit their head. In those cases, parents were notified, incident reports were completed and signed, and no child needed medical assistance. The staff reported that when a child gets hurt, they immediately go to the child to assess the situation. If the incident involves blood, a bump/bruise to the child’s head, or appears to be more serious, the staff members immediately contact administration to come and help. The staff member assists the child and provides appropriate first aid as needed for the child. They will complete the incident report and when the child is picked up, the staff member will have the parent review and sign the incident report. Today, I reviewed the policies of supervision and cell phone use as outlined in the facility’s staff handbook. I also observed the live video feed to monitor staff while in the classroom. During my walk-through and video observation, I did not observe any cellphone use in the classroom. In addition, I reviewed the incident report log. The incident reports that I observed involving bumps to the head included documentation showing that parents were notified on two separate occasions. Based on staff interviews and today’s observations, this allegation is Confirmed. The staff member who was on the cell phone while supervising children on the playground was so engaged in the cell phone call that she did not hear the administrator’s reminder over the walkie-talkie to end her phone use. As a result, she was not able to provide adequate supervision of the children. Allegation #2 There are concerns that children are being cared for in an unsafe environment. Administrative staff stated that there is one child that uses profanity and may have outburst. During Spring Break, there was one situation where the child did get physical with another child. As a result, the parent was called to pick the child up and the child, and the child was suspended for one day. The administrator explained that the child is not always physical with other students, the biggest concern is the child’s inappropriate language. The administrator and staff have been communicating about the child’s behavior with the parent, and they are actively working together to come up with solutions. The parent has been notified that if this behavior continues, the parent will have to look for alternate care. Staff members reported that there are no major concerns with any child in their care. They shared that if they see a child becoming triggered or becoming increasingly frustrated, they intervene to assist the child in calming down. Staff members also stated that when additional support is needed, they will use the walkie-talkie and call the office for assistance. The staff members indicated that administration is always willing to help when needed. One staff member shared that administration has shared training materials and videos to support behavior management strategies in the classroom. Another staff member shared that there are one or two children who have heightened emotions at times, but they just keep a higher level of supervision on the child to ensure the safety of the other children in care. They have started identifying potential triggers, such as children arguing, and are actively working to support the children to calm down and help them navigate emotional situations. Today, I was able to observe in the classrooms. Children were playing and interacting with one another appropriately. Staff were providing adequate supervision and interacting with the children. I did not observe any child using inappropriate language towards staff or children. Based on staff interviews and my observation, this allegation is Unconfirmed. The following violations were observed. All violations shall be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. On April 24, 2026, while on playground space #1, a staff member was talking on her cell phone and was not providing adequate supervision. The administrator attempted to get the staff member’s attention over the walkie-talkie; however, the staff member did not respond, as she was distracted. At the time of the incident, the staff member was working with a co-teacher, and there were 16 children present, ages 3-5 years old. .1801(a)(1-5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the playground used for afterschool aged children and on the infant/ toddler playground, there is a gap between the concrete and the earth creating a tripping hazard. On the older toddler playground, the back left ground is washing away creating a tripping hazard with the grass and dirt. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space 1 and 2, plastic bags were observed under the changing table, not locked with an approved lock, assessable to children under 3. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space 1, safe sleep checks were not documented for one sleeping infant from 12:15pm-1:42pm. .0606(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. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 12, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. An administrative action may be issued based on a confirmed allegation AND (if applicable) a return visit will be made to verify correction of the violation. Technical Assistance When in the classroom, staff’s focus should be on supervising children and engaging them in play. As the facility has a landline, staff should not be on their cell phones in the classrooms. If staff need to make a phone call, they need to have a substitute caregiver replace them in the classroom while they step out to use the telephone. When staff are on their cell phones, they are not adequately supervising the children in their care. Today we discussed the importance of adequate supervision as it is a critical component of ensuring the safety and well-being of children. Staff must be actively engaged at all times for this to occur. I encourage you to review Child Care Rule 10 A NCAC 09. 1801 regarding supervision with your staff. Today we also discussed updating your cell phone use policy to include air pods/ ear buds use as well. Today, Space 1, a sleep check for a child was not performed from 12:15-1:42. The teacher documented that they were on break during this time. Please review rule 10A NCAC 09.1724(a) (6- 8) that requires all providers to visually check sleeping infants. The more often an infant is visually checked, the more likely it is that the caregiver will identify a problem before it becomes life threatening. The goal of creating a safe sleep environment for infants is to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and other sleep-related deaths such as accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed. Signs to monitor include: · Watching the chest rise and fall · Note color of skin · Look for flushing, restlessness and increased body temperature · Note the child’s position and whether he or she is awake or asleep. An infant’s first few weeks in child care can be the time of higher risk for SIDS, especially if the infant enrolls during the critical developmental period of 2-4 months of age. Remember, for the health, well-being, and safety of the infants in care, safe sleep checks should be conducted regularly. The frequency of visual checks should be included in your Safe Sleep Policy and followed. Best practice is to check on sleeping infants every 15 minutes. Visual checks must be documented. Various sample sleeping charts are available to you on the DCDEE website, under the “provider documents” tab. Safe sleep checks must be kept for each child and kept on file for a minimum of one month. Today we discussed reviewing with all staff members the safe sleep policy and the importance of the sleep checks. Today we discussed reminding staff members that if they are covering a break or step into the infant classrooms that they are responsible for all the requirements in that classroom. We discussed reminding staff that when they leave the classroom, to communicate with the new teacher when the next sleep check is required if an infant is sleeping. Today, I reminded you to watch the temperatures in the infant classrooms. Space 1 was significantly warmer than Space 2. There is a thermometer on the wall for the staff to adequately monitor the temperature in these spaces to stay between 68-75 degrees. In space 1 and 2, plastic bags were observed under the diaper changing area, unlocked, and accessible to children. Plastic bags may not be accessible to children under 3. Plastic bags are a suffocation hazard and kill dozens of children yearly mostly infants. Ensure all plastic bags are in locked storage or above 5 feet. This includes plastic bags to store medications and plastic sleeves that diapers come in. Today, the afterschool age playground and the infant/toddler playground, the ground beside the sidewalk has washed away creating a potential tripping hazard. On the playground used for the older toddlers in the back left corner the ground started to wash away creating a potential tripping hazard. Add surfacing to the area beside the concrete sidewalks where it has washed away as this is a tripping hazard for children. Consider adding additional surfacing to the ground on the older toddler playground to cover the ground in the back left corner where the tripping hazard is or spray painting them a bright color to make them more noticeable. Today, we briefly discussed your plans for the new QRIS pathways to the stars. You stated that at this time, you are strongly considering Pathway 1, but you will be reviewing Pathway 1- Classroom Assessment and Pathway 2- Classroom and Instructional Quality and make a final decision soon. We briefly discussed the education standards, family and community engagement, and the continuous quality improvement plans. I highly suggested if you are planning on going Pathway 1- Program Assessment, to begin the self-studies and to encourage your staff to take the trainings on the NCRLAP website to prepare for the assessment. I also suggested today that you start to look at the education of your staff members and to ensure that all your staff members have updated WORKS letters to better examine the education standards levels of your staff. You stated that at this moment you are concerned with the education levels of your staff and where they will be on the new education standards. I suggested reviewing the QRIS modernization page on the Division’s website. You expressed interest in a Technical Assistance visit with me to further discuss the QRIS information as you prepare. I mentioned reaching out to One Place for resources, training, and outreach assessments to help you prepare. I will send you an email with the application, which has active links to the different components and information to help you as you prepare. At the completion of the visit, a handwritten visit summary was left with you due to time restraints and computer and regulatory issues. A computer-generated visit summary was hand delivered to you, reviewed, signed and left with you two days later. If you have any questions, please contact me at heather.elliott@dhhs.nc.gov/ 910-364- 8728 or my supervisor, Kim Sherry at kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov/ 910-824-0470. 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 09.1724 · Violation

Name of Operation: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: HEATHER ELLIOTT Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0426-276L Visit Date: 4/28/2026 Number Present: 52 Completed Date: 4/28/2026 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 245 Time In: 01:20 PM Time Out: 05:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to investigate a report alleging violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: Allegation #1: There are concerns that children are not being provided with adequate supervision. Allegation#2: There are concerns that children are an unsafe environment. The facility currently operates with a Four-Star License, issued July 25, 2019. Restrictions on the permit include a capacity of 145, age range from 0-12 years old, first and second shift care, meeting enhanced ratios and enhanced space, and Ajay Goyal is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. Restrictions were in compliance today. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 26, 2025. As of today, your facility had an 18-month compliance history score, which was 94%. In addition to the allegations, Supervision, Staff/Child Ratios, Adequate/Approved Space, New Staff Files and Permit Restrictions were monitored. Limited monitoring occurred. Upon arrival, you, Asha Reynolds, administrator, was on break and returned quickly. Ms. Reynolds then accompanied me with the walk-through and available for today’s visit. There were 74 children enrolled and 52 children present ranging from 0-12 years old. All classrooms were observed and monitored. Daily schedules and activity plans were posted in each classroom. Infants received care based on their individual needs. In space 1, one infant was sleeping and two infants were participating in individual care routines. In space 2, children were exploring their space and interacting with the teacher. A variety of age-appropriate toys were available for the children to explore. In space 3,4, and 5 children were napping on individual cots and blankets. Lights were off and soft music was playing. After rest time, children participated in personal care routines and prepared for snack. Space 4 and 5 transitioned after snack and children were observed playing outside with a variety of gross motor toys. In space 3, children were observed in free play, playing in centers including but not limited to manipulatives, dramatic play, blocks, and reading centers. Children in space 8 arrived later in the visit. They transitioned from the van and washed hands to prepare for snack. For snack, cheese, crackers and water were served. In space 8, children were observed playing board games, doing homework, reading, and participating in different art activities. Teachers were adequately supervising children. Investigation: The allegation was discussed with administrators and four staff members. You were all given the opportunity to state your perceptions of the allegation and to share any pertinent information. The facility does have cameras, however administration does not have access and stated that it is live feed only. Findings- Allegation #1 There are concerns that children were not being provided with adequate supervision. The administrative staff reported that staff are not allowed to have cell phones or air pods while in the classroom. Staff have been informed of the facility’s expectations, and it is also in the facility’s policy and procedures. According to the policy, cell phones should be locked up in their lockers in the staff break room or locked in their car during the duration of the workday. Administration stated that a verbal warning will be given to staff if they use their cell phone. Administration reported that a staff member was observed on her cell phone while actively supervising 16 3–5-year-old children with one other staff member present on the playground. The administrator made an announcement over the walkie-talkie to remind staff that at no time should any staff member, while actively supervising children, be on their phone and instruct them to get off. It was reported that the staff member did not hear the administrator’s announcement and continued her conversation. The administrator attempted to confront the staff member, and the staff member appeared mad. The staff member’s co-teacher called for administration after observing the staff member packing up her things. When administration walked into the classroom, the staff member walked out and quit. Staff members reported that they are not allowed to have their cellphones on them or to use them while they are supervising children. If they are seen with their phone or air pods in their ears, they are first asked to remove them and to lock them up. All staff members stated that if it continues, they do get written up. All staff members stated that cell phone use prohibits adequate supervision. When asked how they would respond if they observed a co-worker on the phone, all staff members reported they would tell the staff members to get off the phone and wait until their break to use the phone. The administration stated that when an incident occurs, such as an injury from the neck up, involving blood, or any incident or situation that they feel may need medical attention, she immediately contacts the parent. The administration reported that when an incident occurs, the teacher is expected to immediately go and assist the child and assess the situation. If an incident involves head injuries, blood, or they need assistance they call the office and the administrator will go help and determine whether additional medical attention is necessary. If the parent needs to be contacted, administration is the designated person responsible for making the call. The teacher will complete the incident report and have the parent to review and sign at pick-up. The administrator reported there have been previous incidents in which children fell and have hit their head. In those cases, parents were notified, incident reports were completed and signed, and no child needed medical assistance. The staff reported that when a child gets hurt, they immediately go to the child to assess the situation. If the incident involves blood, a bump/bruise to the child’s head, or appears to be more serious, the staff members immediately contact administration to come and help. The staff member assists the child and provides appropriate first aid as needed for the child. They will complete the incident report and when the child is picked up, the staff member will have the parent review and sign the incident report. Today, I reviewed the policies of supervision and cell phone use as outlined in the facility’s staff handbook. I also observed the live video feed to monitor staff while in the classroom. During my walk-through and video observation, I did not observe any cellphone use in the classroom. In addition, I reviewed the incident report log. The incident reports that I observed involving bumps to the head included documentation showing that parents were notified on two separate occasions. Based on staff interviews and today’s observations, this allegation is Confirmed. The staff member who was on the cell phone while supervising children on the playground was so engaged in the cell phone call that she did not hear the administrator’s reminder over the walkie-talkie to end her phone use. As a result, she was not able to provide adequate supervision of the children. Allegation #2 There are concerns that children are being cared for in an unsafe environment. Administrative staff stated that there is one child that uses profanity and may have outburst. During Spring Break, there was one situation where the child did get physical with another child. As a result, the parent was called to pick the child up and the child, and the child was suspended for one day. The administrator explained that the child is not always physical with other students, the biggest concern is the child’s inappropriate language. The administrator and staff have been communicating about the child’s behavior with the parent, and they are actively working together to come up with solutions. The parent has been notified that if this behavior continues, the parent will have to look for alternate care. Staff members reported that there are no major concerns with any child in their care. They shared that if they see a child becoming triggered or becoming increasingly frustrated, they intervene to assist the child in calming down. Staff members also stated that when additional support is needed, they will use the walkie-talkie and call the office for assistance. The staff members indicated that administration is always willing to help when needed. One staff member shared that administration has shared training materials and videos to support behavior management strategies in the classroom. Another staff member shared that there are one or two children who have heightened emotions at times, but they just keep a higher level of supervision on the child to ensure the safety of the other children in care. They have started identifying potential triggers, such as children arguing, and are actively working to support the children to calm down and help them navigate emotional situations. Today, I was able to observe in the classrooms. Children were playing and interacting with one another appropriately. Staff were providing adequate supervision and interacting with the children. I did not observe any child using inappropriate language towards staff or children. Based on staff interviews and my observation, this allegation is Unconfirmed. The following violations were observed. All violations shall be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. On April 24, 2026, while on playground space #1, a staff member was talking on her cell phone and was not providing adequate supervision. The administrator attempted to get the staff member’s attention over the walkie-talkie; however, the staff member did not respond, as she was distracted. At the time of the incident, the staff member was working with a co-teacher, and there were 16 children present, ages 3-5 years old. .1801(a)(1-5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the playground used for afterschool aged children and on the infant/ toddler playground, there is a gap between the concrete and the earth creating a tripping hazard. On the older toddler playground, the back left ground is washing away creating a tripping hazard with the grass and dirt. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space 1 and 2, plastic bags were observed under the changing table, not locked with an approved lock, assessable to children under 3. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space 1, safe sleep checks were not documented for one sleeping infant from 12:15pm-1:42pm. .0606(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. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 12, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. An administrative action may be issued based on a confirmed allegation AND (if applicable) a return visit will be made to verify correction of the violation. Technical Assistance When in the classroom, staff’s focus should be on supervising children and engaging them in play. As the facility has a landline, staff should not be on their cell phones in the classrooms. If staff need to make a phone call, they need to have a substitute caregiver replace them in the classroom while they step out to use the telephone. When staff are on their cell phones, they are not adequately supervising the children in their care. Today we discussed the importance of adequate supervision as it is a critical component of ensuring the safety and well-being of children. Staff must be actively engaged at all times for this to occur. I encourage you to review Child Care Rule 10 A NCAC 09. 1801 regarding supervision with your staff. Today we also discussed updating your cell phone use policy to include air pods/ ear buds use as well. Today, Space 1, a sleep check for a child was not performed from 12:15-1:42. The teacher documented that they were on break during this time. Please review rule 10A NCAC 09.1724(a) (6- 8) that requires all providers to visually check sleeping infants. The more often an infant is visually checked, the more likely it is that the caregiver will identify a problem before it becomes life threatening. The goal of creating a safe sleep environment for infants is to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and other sleep-related deaths such as accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed. Signs to monitor include: · Watching the chest rise and fall · Note color of skin · Look for flushing, restlessness and increased body temperature · Note the child’s position and whether he or she is awake or asleep. An infant’s first few weeks in child care can be the time of higher risk for SIDS, especially if the infant enrolls during the critical developmental period of 2-4 months of age. Remember, for the health, well-being, and safety of the infants in care, safe sleep checks should be conducted regularly. The frequency of visual checks should be included in your Safe Sleep Policy and followed. Best practice is to check on sleeping infants every 15 minutes. Visual checks must be documented. Various sample sleeping charts are available to you on the DCDEE website, under the “provider documents” tab. Safe sleep checks must be kept for each child and kept on file for a minimum of one month. Today we discussed reviewing with all staff members the safe sleep policy and the importance of the sleep checks. Today we discussed reminding staff members that if they are covering a break or step into the infant classrooms that they are responsible for all the requirements in that classroom. We discussed reminding staff that when they leave the classroom, to communicate with the new teacher when the next sleep check is required if an infant is sleeping. Today, I reminded you to watch the temperatures in the infant classrooms. Space 1 was significantly warmer than Space 2. There is a thermometer on the wall for the staff to adequately monitor the temperature in these spaces to stay between 68-75 degrees. In space 1 and 2, plastic bags were observed under the diaper changing area, unlocked, and accessible to children. Plastic bags may not be accessible to children under 3. Plastic bags are a suffocation hazard and kill dozens of children yearly mostly infants. Ensure all plastic bags are in locked storage or above 5 feet. This includes plastic bags to store medications and plastic sleeves that diapers come in. Today, the afterschool age playground and the infant/toddler playground, the ground beside the sidewalk has washed away creating a potential tripping hazard. On the playground used for the older toddlers in the back left corner the ground started to wash away creating a potential tripping hazard. Add surfacing to the area beside the concrete sidewalks where it has washed away as this is a tripping hazard for children. Consider adding additional surfacing to the ground on the older toddler playground to cover the ground in the back left corner where the tripping hazard is or spray painting them a bright color to make them more noticeable. Today, we briefly discussed your plans for the new QRIS pathways to the stars. You stated that at this time, you are strongly considering Pathway 1, but you will be reviewing Pathway 1- Classroom Assessment and Pathway 2- Classroom and Instructional Quality and make a final decision soon. We briefly discussed the education standards, family and community engagement, and the continuous quality improvement plans. I highly suggested if you are planning on going Pathway 1- Program Assessment, to begin the self-studies and to encourage your staff to take the trainings on the NCRLAP website to prepare for the assessment. I also suggested today that you start to look at the education of your staff members and to ensure that all your staff members have updated WORKS letters to better examine the education standards levels of your staff. You stated that at this moment you are concerned with the education levels of your staff and where they will be on the new education standards. I suggested reviewing the QRIS modernization page on the Division’s website. You expressed interest in a Technical Assistance visit with me to further discuss the QRIS information as you prepare. I mentioned reaching out to One Place for resources, training, and outreach assessments to help you prepare. I will send you an email with the application, which has active links to the different components and information to help you as you prepare. At the completion of the visit, a handwritten visit summary was left with you due to time restraints and computer and regulatory issues. A computer-generated visit summary was hand delivered to you, reviewed, signed and left with you two days later. If you have any questions, please contact me at heather.elliott@dhhs.nc.gov/ 910-364- 8728 or my supervisor, Kim Sherry at kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov/ 910-824-0470. 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: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: HEATHER ELLIOTT Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0426-276L Visit Date: 4/28/2026 Number Present: 52 Completed Date: 4/28/2026 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 245 Time In: 01:20 PM Time Out: 05:25 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to investigate a report alleging violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: Allegation #1: There are concerns that children are not being provided with adequate supervision. Allegation#2: There are concerns that children are an unsafe environment. The facility currently operates with a Four-Star License, issued July 25, 2019. Restrictions on the permit include a capacity of 145, age range from 0-12 years old, first and second shift care, meeting enhanced ratios and enhanced space, and Ajay Goyal is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. Restrictions were in compliance today. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 26, 2025. As of today, your facility had an 18-month compliance history score, which was 94%. In addition to the allegations, Supervision, Staff/Child Ratios, Adequate/Approved Space, New Staff Files and Permit Restrictions were monitored. Limited monitoring occurred. Upon arrival, you, Asha Reynolds, administrator, was on break and returned quickly. Ms. Reynolds then accompanied me with the walk-through and available for today’s visit. There were 74 children enrolled and 52 children present ranging from 0-12 years old. All classrooms were observed and monitored. Daily schedules and activity plans were posted in each classroom. Infants received care based on their individual needs. In space 1, one infant was sleeping and two infants were participating in individual care routines. In space 2, children were exploring their space and interacting with the teacher. A variety of age-appropriate toys were available for the children to explore. In space 3,4, and 5 children were napping on individual cots and blankets. Lights were off and soft music was playing. After rest time, children participated in personal care routines and prepared for snack. Space 4 and 5 transitioned after snack and children were observed playing outside with a variety of gross motor toys. In space 3, children were observed in free play, playing in centers including but not limited to manipulatives, dramatic play, blocks, and reading centers. Children in space 8 arrived later in the visit. They transitioned from the van and washed hands to prepare for snack. For snack, cheese, crackers and water were served. In space 8, children were observed playing board games, doing homework, reading, and participating in different art activities. Teachers were adequately supervising children. Investigation: The allegation was discussed with administrators and four staff members. You were all given the opportunity to state your perceptions of the allegation and to share any pertinent information. The facility does have cameras, however administration does not have access and stated that it is live feed only. Findings- Allegation #1 There are concerns that children were not being provided with adequate supervision. The administrative staff reported that staff are not allowed to have cell phones or air pods while in the classroom. Staff have been informed of the facility’s expectations, and it is also in the facility’s policy and procedures. According to the policy, cell phones should be locked up in their lockers in the staff break room or locked in their car during the duration of the workday. Administration stated that a verbal warning will be given to staff if they use their cell phone. Administration reported that a staff member was observed on her cell phone while actively supervising 16 3–5-year-old children with one other staff member present on the playground. The administrator made an announcement over the walkie-talkie to remind staff that at no time should any staff member, while actively supervising children, be on their phone and instruct them to get off. It was reported that the staff member did not hear the administrator’s announcement and continued her conversation. The administrator attempted to confront the staff member, and the staff member appeared mad. The staff member’s co-teacher called for administration after observing the staff member packing up her things. When administration walked into the classroom, the staff member walked out and quit. Staff members reported that they are not allowed to have their cellphones on them or to use them while they are supervising children. If they are seen with their phone or air pods in their ears, they are first asked to remove them and to lock them up. All staff members stated that if it continues, they do get written up. All staff members stated that cell phone use prohibits adequate supervision. When asked how they would respond if they observed a co-worker on the phone, all staff members reported they would tell the staff members to get off the phone and wait until their break to use the phone. The administration stated that when an incident occurs, such as an injury from the neck up, involving blood, or any incident or situation that they feel may need medical attention, she immediately contacts the parent. The administration reported that when an incident occurs, the teacher is expected to immediately go and assist the child and assess the situation. If an incident involves head injuries, blood, or they need assistance they call the office and the administrator will go help and determine whether additional medical attention is necessary. If the parent needs to be contacted, administration is the designated person responsible for making the call. The teacher will complete the incident report and have the parent to review and sign at pick-up. The administrator reported there have been previous incidents in which children fell and have hit their head. In those cases, parents were notified, incident reports were completed and signed, and no child needed medical assistance. The staff reported that when a child gets hurt, they immediately go to the child to assess the situation. If the incident involves blood, a bump/bruise to the child’s head, or appears to be more serious, the staff members immediately contact administration to come and help. The staff member assists the child and provides appropriate first aid as needed for the child. They will complete the incident report and when the child is picked up, the staff member will have the parent review and sign the incident report. Today, I reviewed the policies of supervision and cell phone use as outlined in the facility’s staff handbook. I also observed the live video feed to monitor staff while in the classroom. During my walk-through and video observation, I did not observe any cellphone use in the classroom. In addition, I reviewed the incident report log. The incident reports that I observed involving bumps to the head included documentation showing that parents were notified on two separate occasions. Based on staff interviews and today’s observations, this allegation is Confirmed. The staff member who was on the cell phone while supervising children on the playground was so engaged in the cell phone call that she did not hear the administrator’s reminder over the walkie-talkie to end her phone use. As a result, she was not able to provide adequate supervision of the children. Allegation #2 There are concerns that children are being cared for in an unsafe environment. Administrative staff stated that there is one child that uses profanity and may have outburst. During Spring Break, there was one situation where the child did get physical with another child. As a result, the parent was called to pick the child up and the child, and the child was suspended for one day. The administrator explained that the child is not always physical with other students, the biggest concern is the child’s inappropriate language. The administrator and staff have been communicating about the child’s behavior with the parent, and they are actively working together to come up with solutions. The parent has been notified that if this behavior continues, the parent will have to look for alternate care. Staff members reported that there are no major concerns with any child in their care. They shared that if they see a child becoming triggered or becoming increasingly frustrated, they intervene to assist the child in calming down. Staff members also stated that when additional support is needed, they will use the walkie-talkie and call the office for assistance. The staff members indicated that administration is always willing to help when needed. One staff member shared that administration has shared training materials and videos to support behavior management strategies in the classroom. Another staff member shared that there are one or two children who have heightened emotions at times, but they just keep a higher level of supervision on the child to ensure the safety of the other children in care. They have started identifying potential triggers, such as children arguing, and are actively working to support the children to calm down and help them navigate emotional situations. Today, I was able to observe in the classrooms. Children were playing and interacting with one another appropriately. Staff were providing adequate supervision and interacting with the children. I did not observe any child using inappropriate language towards staff or children. Based on staff interviews and my observation, this allegation is Unconfirmed. The following violations were observed. All violations shall be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. On April 24, 2026, while on playground space #1, a staff member was talking on her cell phone and was not providing adequate supervision. The administrator attempted to get the staff member’s attention over the walkie-talkie; however, the staff member did not respond, as she was distracted. At the time of the incident, the staff member was working with a co-teacher, and there were 16 children present, ages 3-5 years old. .1801(a)(1-5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On the playground used for afterschool aged children and on the infant/ toddler playground, there is a gap between the concrete and the earth creating a tripping hazard. On the older toddler playground, the back left ground is washing away creating a tripping hazard with the grass and dirt. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space 1 and 2, plastic bags were observed under the changing table, not locked with an approved lock, assessable to children under 3. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space 1, safe sleep checks were not documented for one sleeping infant from 12:15pm-1:42pm. .0606(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. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before May 12, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. An administrative action may be issued based on a confirmed allegation AND (if applicable) a return visit will be made to verify correction of the violation. Technical Assistance When in the classroom, staff’s focus should be on supervising children and engaging them in play. As the facility has a landline, staff should not be on their cell phones in the classrooms. If staff need to make a phone call, they need to have a substitute caregiver replace them in the classroom while they step out to use the telephone. When staff are on their cell phones, they are not adequately supervising the children in their care. Today we discussed the importance of adequate supervision as it is a critical component of ensuring the safety and well-being of children. Staff must be actively engaged at all times for this to occur. I encourage you to review Child Care Rule 10 A NCAC 09. 1801 regarding supervision with your staff. Today we also discussed updating your cell phone use policy to include air pods/ ear buds use as well. Today, Space 1, a sleep check for a child was not performed from 12:15-1:42. The teacher documented that they were on break during this time. Please review rule 10A NCAC 09.1724(a) (6- 8) that requires all providers to visually check sleeping infants. The more often an infant is visually checked, the more likely it is that the caregiver will identify a problem before it becomes life threatening. The goal of creating a safe sleep environment for infants is to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and other sleep-related deaths such as accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed. Signs to monitor include: · Watching the chest rise and fall · Note color of skin · Look for flushing, restlessness and increased body temperature · Note the child’s position and whether he or she is awake or asleep. An infant’s first few weeks in child care can be the time of higher risk for SIDS, especially if the infant enrolls during the critical developmental period of 2-4 months of age. Remember, for the health, well-being, and safety of the infants in care, safe sleep checks should be conducted regularly. The frequency of visual checks should be included in your Safe Sleep Policy and followed. Best practice is to check on sleeping infants every 15 minutes. Visual checks must be documented. Various sample sleeping charts are available to you on the DCDEE website, under the “provider documents” tab. Safe sleep checks must be kept for each child and kept on file for a minimum of one month. Today we discussed reviewing with all staff members the safe sleep policy and the importance of the sleep checks. Today we discussed reminding staff members that if they are covering a break or step into the infant classrooms that they are responsible for all the requirements in that classroom. We discussed reminding staff that when they leave the classroom, to communicate with the new teacher when the next sleep check is required if an infant is sleeping. Today, I reminded you to watch the temperatures in the infant classrooms. Space 1 was significantly warmer than Space 2. There is a thermometer on the wall for the staff to adequately monitor the temperature in these spaces to stay between 68-75 degrees. In space 1 and 2, plastic bags were observed under the diaper changing area, unlocked, and accessible to children. Plastic bags may not be accessible to children under 3. Plastic bags are a suffocation hazard and kill dozens of children yearly mostly infants. Ensure all plastic bags are in locked storage or above 5 feet. This includes plastic bags to store medications and plastic sleeves that diapers come in. Today, the afterschool age playground and the infant/toddler playground, the ground beside the sidewalk has washed away creating a potential tripping hazard. On the playground used for the older toddlers in the back left corner the ground started to wash away creating a potential tripping hazard. Add surfacing to the area beside the concrete sidewalks where it has washed away as this is a tripping hazard for children. Consider adding additional surfacing to the ground on the older toddler playground to cover the ground in the back left corner where the tripping hazard is or spray painting them a bright color to make them more noticeable. Today, we briefly discussed your plans for the new QRIS pathways to the stars. You stated that at this time, you are strongly considering Pathway 1, but you will be reviewing Pathway 1- Classroom Assessment and Pathway 2- Classroom and Instructional Quality and make a final decision soon. We briefly discussed the education standards, family and community engagement, and the continuous quality improvement plans. I highly suggested if you are planning on going Pathway 1- Program Assessment, to begin the self-studies and to encourage your staff to take the trainings on the NCRLAP website to prepare for the assessment. I also suggested today that you start to look at the education of your staff members and to ensure that all your staff members have updated WORKS letters to better examine the education standards levels of your staff. You stated that at this moment you are concerned with the education levels of your staff and where they will be on the new education standards. I suggested reviewing the QRIS modernization page on the Division’s website. You expressed interest in a Technical Assistance visit with me to further discuss the QRIS information as you prepare. I mentioned reaching out to One Place for resources, training, and outreach assessments to help you prepare. I will send you an email with the application, which has active links to the different components and information to help you as you prepare. At the completion of the visit, a handwritten visit summary was left with you due to time restraints and computer and regulatory issues. A computer-generated visit summary was hand delivered to you, reviewed, signed and left with you two days later. If you have any questions, please contact me at heather.elliott@dhhs.nc.gov/ 910-364- 8728 or my supervisor, Kim Sherry at kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov/ 910-824-0470. 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: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: HEATHER ELLIOTT Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/11/2026 Number Present: 32 Completed Date: 2/11/2026 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 170 Time In: 09:55 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. Jennifer Garner, Lead Child Care Consultant, assisted during today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a 4-star license, issued July 25,2019. Restrictions on your permit include capacity of 145 for first and second shift, meets enhanced ratios and space, and Ajay Goyal is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 26, 2025. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 92% as of February 10, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and Children’s Castle Child Care, Inc., was listed as current/active. Your last fire inspection was on June 11, 2025, approved for daytime care. Your last sanitation inspection was on December 29, 2025, with an approved rating with 20 demerits. Asha Reynolds, administrator, was present and available for consultation. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, to include all approved indoor and outdoor learning environments. Today, five of the eight classrooms are currently in use, one being used for school- aged children in the afternoons. There were 51 children enrolled and 32 children present, ranging from 0-4 years of age. In space 2, infants were engaged in tummy time, exploring their space, and participating in personal care routines. Sleep checks were completed, recorded, and maintained as required. In space 3, 4, and 5 children were participating in free play, activities including but not limited to blocks, playing with toy people, playing with Mr. Potato Head, and playing in dramatic play. For lunch, cheese pizza, corn, mandarin oranges and milk were served. Files for all new staff members were reviewed and found in compliance. During today’s visit child care requirements were monitored for compliance including supervision, staff/child ratios, CPR and First Aid, Criminal Background Checks, storage of hazardous materials, storage of medications, approved space, and other applicable requirements. The following violations were observed and documented today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On playground 2, the wooden boarder has screws exposed accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. In space 2,3, and 4, roach excrement and dead roaches were found in the lower cabinets. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space 2, 3, and 4, diaper creams, including Desitin and Petroleum Jelly were stored in the diaper changing cabinet accessible to children. The cabinet was not locked with an approved lock. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space 2, 3, and 4, plastic bags were stored under the diaper changing table accessible to children under three years of age. The cabinet was not locked with an approved lock. .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. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 25,2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Heather Elliott, Child Care Consultant PO Box 161 Hampstead, NC 28443 910-364-8728 If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Today in space 2, 3, and 4 there were diaper creams that were under the diaper changing table, with a lock that is not approved, making the diaper creams accessible to children. Today we discussed the only approved locks are locks with keys, combination locks, and magnetic locks. Diaper creams are to be in locked storage or stored above 5 feet. In space 2, 3, and 4 the storage under the diaper changing tables, there were also plastic bags that were stored accessible to children under 3 years of age. Plastic bags may not be accessible to children under 3. Plastic bags are a suffocation hazard and kill dozens of children yearly mostly infants. Ensure all plastic bags are in locked storage or above 5 feet. This includes plastic bags to use to store medications and the plastic bags that contain diapers. Child Care Rule states that once a day, prior to initial use, the indoor and outdoor premises shall be checked for debris, vandalism, and broken equipment. Debris shall be removed and discarded. Today on playground space 2, the wooden barrier has screws that have become exposed due to the wood breaking away. This is exposing sharp edges that can be considered a hazard for children. On playgrounds 2 and 3 there was trash scattered around the space. In playground space 1, add surfacing to the area beside the sidewalk where it has washed away as this is a tripping hazard for children. Before children enter the outdoor area each day, you must take time to observe the outdoor area and ensure there are no safety hazards or debris in the area. If there are any hazards, they must be addressed before children can enter the area. As bolts were observed on the black mulch barrier were beginning to show signs of protruding, I suggest that you check them on a regular basis to determine if they need to be pushed back down in the ground. Protrusions are considered safety hazards as children may trip over them or fall on them. Bolts should be hammered down flush with the border. Due to recent inclement weather, today we discussed tilling the mulch and adding extra mulch if needed to the area surrounding the playground structure. During my walk through, all classroom spaces used by children and in the kitchen where food is prepared, I conducted a thorough inspection, opening cabinet doors and pulling drawers open. In classroom spaces 2,3, and 4 I observed evidence of pest activity, specifically roach droppings, feces, cast skins, egg cases, and roaches in the lower cabinets. Cockroaches can carry germs and allergens that can trigger asthma and other respiratory issues, particularly in young children. For this reason, proper sanitation, proper sanitation, regular inspections, and effective pest control are critical for maintaining clean, safe, and secure child care environments. Regular cleaning is essential to combat cockroach infestations, especially in areas where children may leave food debris. It is important to wipe down surfaces, sweep and mop, clean up spills immediately. Additionally, it is important to seal any open spaces, as cockroaches often live in gaps, cracks, and crevices. Additionally check for areas around molding, items they can hide under. Consider calling a pest control company or environmental health for resources and recommendations. Today we discussed the dead ants in space 6 by the exit door. The space is not currently in use for care. Prior to using this space and this playground you must remove the dead ants at the exit door, and you must address any ant hills on the playground. During the visit an overview of section .3200 of the child care rules was provided using the QRIS Conversation Template and resources available on the QRIS Modernization Page, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. All the newest information on the QRIS rated license assessments and documents are currently posted here. Each of the following pathway options were discussed: Pathway 1 - Program Assessment, Pathway 2 - Classroom and Instructional Quality, and touched on Pathway 3 - Accreditation and Head Start. We reviewed the components common to Pathways 1 and 2: Any staff person who will be evaluated as part of the Lead Teachers or Other Educators needs to register for a Works account and submit original, official transcripts or update their current Works account and submit new education. We walked through the Individual and Facility Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) forms (individual and center). You will complete the complete the center form for your facility and an Individual CQI annually. (This will also count as your Professional Development Plan) Maintain these in your staff files. We reviewed the Family and Community Engagement Plan. We reviewed the Foundational Practices. Ensure that they are included in the parent handbook Consider creating a notebook to collect documentation of the practices including pictures, flyers, newsletters, emails, etc. Pathway 1 – Program Assessment: You will complete a 3-month ERS Self-Study using the Thinking More About FCCERS-3. We discussed information available on the NC Rated License Assessment website, www.ncrlap.org,including training and forms for the three-month self-study and other resources (videos, documents, live and recorded training) and opportunities for an Outreach Assessment. To request Outreach Assessment - Email ncrlap@uncg.edu or call 1-866-362-7527. When the 3-month self-study is completed, you will complete and submit the Self-Study Verification Form. Pathway 2: Classroom and Instructional Quality We reviewed the list of approved curriculums and formative assessments as an approved curriculum and formative assessments will be required for pathway 2. You will need to provide verification that you have received training on the selected curriculum and formative assessment tool. We discussed options for five hours of additional training (on-going training or CEUs) or coaching/mentoring option. Today we discussed for you to complete your Staff Information and Education Worksheet. All staff education will need to be verified via WORKS. You will need 50% of lead teachers and 50% of all other staff members employed full-time to meet the requirements for education. Your license will not be delayed due to incomplete or unprocessed education information. It typically takes WORKS 4-6 weeks to complete an evaluation. To continue to be eligible to participate in the North Carolina Child Care Subsidy program your facility must earn a minimum of a Three Star License. Today we discussed ways staff can increase their stars. We discussed completing additional semester hours in early childhood education from an approved, accredited college, completing additional CEU’s from an approved agency and competency evaluations. CLEAN WATER FOR CAROLINA KIDS- Your facility’s status, according to Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: Water Testing- Completed on March 20, 2024. Water Testing must be completed every three years. The Lead Paint Testing and Asbestos Testing was completed May 21 2024, indicating the center is exempt. ABCMS-Today we discussed that 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. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Today we discussed updating and keeping your staff and training worksheet current. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, the visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at heather.elliott@dhhs.nc.gov / 910-364-8728 or my supervisor Kim Sherry, kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov / 910-824-0470 if you have any questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: HEATHER ELLIOTT Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/11/2026 Number Present: 32 Completed Date: 2/11/2026 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 170 Time In: 09:55 AM Time Out: 12:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for a routine unannounced visit. Jennifer Garner, Lead Child Care Consultant, assisted during today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a 4-star license, issued July 25,2019. Restrictions on your permit include capacity of 145 for first and second shift, meets enhanced ratios and space, and Ajay Goyal is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. The license was posted, and the restrictions were in compliance. Your last annual compliance visit was conducted on August 26, 2025. The center’s compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 92% as of February 10, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed today and Children’s Castle Child Care, Inc., was listed as current/active. Your last fire inspection was on June 11, 2025, approved for daytime care. Your last sanitation inspection was on December 29, 2025, with an approved rating with 20 demerits. Asha Reynolds, administrator, was present and available for consultation. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, to include all approved indoor and outdoor learning environments. Today, five of the eight classrooms are currently in use, one being used for school- aged children in the afternoons. There were 51 children enrolled and 32 children present, ranging from 0-4 years of age. In space 2, infants were engaged in tummy time, exploring their space, and participating in personal care routines. Sleep checks were completed, recorded, and maintained as required. In space 3, 4, and 5 children were participating in free play, activities including but not limited to blocks, playing with toy people, playing with Mr. Potato Head, and playing in dramatic play. For lunch, cheese pizza, corn, mandarin oranges and milk were served. Files for all new staff members were reviewed and found in compliance. During today’s visit child care requirements were monitored for compliance including supervision, staff/child ratios, CPR and First Aid, Criminal Background Checks, storage of hazardous materials, storage of medications, approved space, and other applicable requirements. The following violations were observed and documented today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On playground 2, the wooden boarder has screws exposed accessible to children. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 808 The child care center premises, including the outdoor learning environment, was not clean, drained to minimize standing water, free of litter and hazards, and/or maintained in a manner which does not create conditions that attract or harbor pests. In space 2,3, and 4, roach excrement and dead roaches were found in the lower cabinets. 15A NCAC 18A .2832(a) 841 Medications including prescription and non-prescription items were not stored in a locked cabinet or other locked container. In space 2, 3, and 4, diaper creams, including Desitin and Petroleum Jelly were stored in the diaper changing cabinet accessible to children. The cabinet was not locked with an approved lock. 15A NCAC 18A .2820(d) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space 2, 3, and 4, plastic bags were stored under the diaper changing table accessible to children under three years of age. The cabinet was not locked with an approved lock. .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. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before February 25,2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Heather Elliott, Child Care Consultant PO Box 161 Hampstead, NC 28443 910-364-8728 If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Today in space 2, 3, and 4 there were diaper creams that were under the diaper changing table, with a lock that is not approved, making the diaper creams accessible to children. Today we discussed the only approved locks are locks with keys, combination locks, and magnetic locks. Diaper creams are to be in locked storage or stored above 5 feet. In space 2, 3, and 4 the storage under the diaper changing tables, there were also plastic bags that were stored accessible to children under 3 years of age. Plastic bags may not be accessible to children under 3. Plastic bags are a suffocation hazard and kill dozens of children yearly mostly infants. Ensure all plastic bags are in locked storage or above 5 feet. This includes plastic bags to use to store medications and the plastic bags that contain diapers. Child Care Rule states that once a day, prior to initial use, the indoor and outdoor premises shall be checked for debris, vandalism, and broken equipment. Debris shall be removed and discarded. Today on playground space 2, the wooden barrier has screws that have become exposed due to the wood breaking away. This is exposing sharp edges that can be considered a hazard for children. On playgrounds 2 and 3 there was trash scattered around the space. In playground space 1, add surfacing to the area beside the sidewalk where it has washed away as this is a tripping hazard for children. Before children enter the outdoor area each day, you must take time to observe the outdoor area and ensure there are no safety hazards or debris in the area. If there are any hazards, they must be addressed before children can enter the area. As bolts were observed on the black mulch barrier were beginning to show signs of protruding, I suggest that you check them on a regular basis to determine if they need to be pushed back down in the ground. Protrusions are considered safety hazards as children may trip over them or fall on them. Bolts should be hammered down flush with the border. Due to recent inclement weather, today we discussed tilling the mulch and adding extra mulch if needed to the area surrounding the playground structure. During my walk through, all classroom spaces used by children and in the kitchen where food is prepared, I conducted a thorough inspection, opening cabinet doors and pulling drawers open. In classroom spaces 2,3, and 4 I observed evidence of pest activity, specifically roach droppings, feces, cast skins, egg cases, and roaches in the lower cabinets. Cockroaches can carry germs and allergens that can trigger asthma and other respiratory issues, particularly in young children. For this reason, proper sanitation, proper sanitation, regular inspections, and effective pest control are critical for maintaining clean, safe, and secure child care environments. Regular cleaning is essential to combat cockroach infestations, especially in areas where children may leave food debris. It is important to wipe down surfaces, sweep and mop, clean up spills immediately. Additionally, it is important to seal any open spaces, as cockroaches often live in gaps, cracks, and crevices. Additionally check for areas around molding, items they can hide under. Consider calling a pest control company or environmental health for resources and recommendations. Today we discussed the dead ants in space 6 by the exit door. The space is not currently in use for care. Prior to using this space and this playground you must remove the dead ants at the exit door, and you must address any ant hills on the playground. During the visit an overview of section .3200 of the child care rules was provided using the QRIS Conversation Template and resources available on the QRIS Modernization Page, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. All the newest information on the QRIS rated license assessments and documents are currently posted here. Each of the following pathway options were discussed: Pathway 1 - Program Assessment, Pathway 2 - Classroom and Instructional Quality, and touched on Pathway 3 - Accreditation and Head Start. We reviewed the components common to Pathways 1 and 2: Any staff person who will be evaluated as part of the Lead Teachers or Other Educators needs to register for a Works account and submit original, official transcripts or update their current Works account and submit new education. We walked through the Individual and Facility Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) forms (individual and center). You will complete the complete the center form for your facility and an Individual CQI annually. (This will also count as your Professional Development Plan) Maintain these in your staff files. We reviewed the Family and Community Engagement Plan. We reviewed the Foundational Practices. Ensure that they are included in the parent handbook Consider creating a notebook to collect documentation of the practices including pictures, flyers, newsletters, emails, etc. Pathway 1 – Program Assessment: You will complete a 3-month ERS Self-Study using the Thinking More About FCCERS-3. We discussed information available on the NC Rated License Assessment website, www.ncrlap.org,including training and forms for the three-month self-study and other resources (videos, documents, live and recorded training) and opportunities for an Outreach Assessment. To request Outreach Assessment - Email ncrlap@uncg.edu or call 1-866-362-7527. When the 3-month self-study is completed, you will complete and submit the Self-Study Verification Form. Pathway 2: Classroom and Instructional Quality We reviewed the list of approved curriculums and formative assessments as an approved curriculum and formative assessments will be required for pathway 2. You will need to provide verification that you have received training on the selected curriculum and formative assessment tool. We discussed options for five hours of additional training (on-going training or CEUs) or coaching/mentoring option. Today we discussed for you to complete your Staff Information and Education Worksheet. All staff education will need to be verified via WORKS. You will need 50% of lead teachers and 50% of all other staff members employed full-time to meet the requirements for education. Your license will not be delayed due to incomplete or unprocessed education information. It typically takes WORKS 4-6 weeks to complete an evaluation. To continue to be eligible to participate in the North Carolina Child Care Subsidy program your facility must earn a minimum of a Three Star License. Today we discussed ways staff can increase their stars. We discussed completing additional semester hours in early childhood education from an approved, accredited college, completing additional CEU’s from an approved agency and competency evaluations. CLEAN WATER FOR CAROLINA KIDS- Your facility’s status, according to Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: Water Testing- Completed on March 20, 2024. Water Testing must be completed every three years. The Lead Paint Testing and Asbestos Testing was completed May 21 2024, indicating the center is exempt. ABCMS-Today we discussed that 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. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. Today we discussed updating and keeping your staff and training worksheet current. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, the visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at heather.elliott@dhhs.nc.gov / 910-364-8728 or my supervisor Kim Sherry, kim.sherry@dhhs.nc.gov / 910-824-0470 if you have any questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0901 · Violation

Name of Operation: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: JENNIFER GARNER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 31 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance during your annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including staff and children’s files. This facility currently operates with a Four Star License issued July 25, 2019. Restrictions on the permit include: first and second shift capacity of 145 children 0-12 years of age, meets enhanced ratios and space. Ajay Goyal is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. Restrictions were in compliance today. The program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled; this program uses the Creative Curriculum for Preschool. The status of the corporation which owns the facility, Children’s Castle Child Care, Inc, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office today August 26, 2025. The last annual compliance was conducted on September 4, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed April 14, 2025, with an Approved classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on June 11, 2025. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 92%. Administrator A. Reynolds was present and available for consultation today. Eight indoor spaces and four outdoor space are approved for use by children. Spaces 1, 5, 6 & 7 are not currently in use and children are not enrolled in these spaces at this time. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. In spaces for infants and toddlers, materials are kept in identifiable grouping including books, blocks, dolls, pretend play materials, musical toys, sensory toys and fine motor toys. An open area that allows freedom of movement was available, both indoors and outdoors, for infants and for toddlers; as well as hands-on experiences. All infants were awake and on the floor exploring the space and playing with various age-appropriate toys. Toddlers, preschooler and school-age children were observed during free play in their classrooms. Children were dancing, building and playing with animals in blocks, cooking in dramatic play, drawing in art and building with magnetic panels in fine motor. Spaces for preschool and school age children are arranged into activity areas to include but are not limited to art, blocks, dramatic play, music, cozy, science, manipulatives, writing and language. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible in each activity area. The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website reflected the following information about your center’s required three-year water testing, lead paint testing, and asbestos testing: Three-year Water Testing was completed March 20, 2024. The Lead Paint Testing and Asbestos Testing was completed May 21 2024, indicating the center is exempt. All staff members employed at least one year have completed the required Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102, and staff members employed five years or more have repeated all topics within five years as required. Violation Number Comment Rule 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu posted reflected cheese pizza, corn, pineapples and milk. The menu served was ham and cheese sandwiches, corn, pineapples and milk. Food substitutions were not noted on the menu. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 1123 All vehicles used to transport children were not free of hazards. In the can used to transport children, the plastic seat belt covers on top of the seat were had come unattached and were dangling along the seatbelt straps. The cup holder was missing on the front row. Screws were missing from the side paneling next to the seats on the first and second row. 10A NCAC 09 .1002(a) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. Any violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before September 5, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Andrea Johnson, Child Care Consultant andrea.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov PO Box 904 Beaufort, NC 28516 252-732-0183 If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance regarding the violations cited: Menu: When you realize a food substitution is needed, update all posted menus immediately to reflect the change. Van: Ensure the van used to transport children is in good repair. Check the can daily to address any potential hazards. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: • You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and • If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and will be posted, on the QRIS Modernization page. • In September, child care consultants will host in-person facility operator/administrator meetings within the counties they serve to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. • Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities in order to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming informational settings and working with you on your pathway to the stars! Technical Assistance: Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database): 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 within five business days. You have completed the training and linked your staff to your facility. AWARD$ Plus Program: The Infant Toddler Educator AWARD$ program has recently gone through some exciting programmatic updates. The original AWARD$ program was only available to teachers working full-time in Birth to Three classrooms that had an AA in ECE or higher degree and were employed by 4- and 5-star programs. The education requirement has been reduced as an incentive to support teachers seeking to increase their education in any star rated licensed program. Visit www.childcareservices.org/award for additional information. The Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-PLUS (MCCYN-PLUS) initiative launched in North Carolina to make it easier for military families to access and afford quality child care from community providers. Licensed child care facilities are now able to participate in MCCYN-PLUS based on their star rating. If you are interested in participating in the military fee assistance program, please visit: https://www.childcareaware.org/feeassistancerespite/feeassistancerespiteproviders/feeassistance/ to review the application process. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Documentation was completed and reviewed on site, printed and signed. Remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Jennifer.j.garner@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1447 with any questions or concerns regarding this visit. 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 .1002 · Violation

Name of Operation: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: JENNIFER GARNER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 31 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance during your annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including staff and children’s files. This facility currently operates with a Four Star License issued July 25, 2019. Restrictions on the permit include: first and second shift capacity of 145 children 0-12 years of age, meets enhanced ratios and space. Ajay Goyal is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. Restrictions were in compliance today. The program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled; this program uses the Creative Curriculum for Preschool. The status of the corporation which owns the facility, Children’s Castle Child Care, Inc, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office today August 26, 2025. The last annual compliance was conducted on September 4, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed April 14, 2025, with an Approved classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on June 11, 2025. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 92%. Administrator A. Reynolds was present and available for consultation today. Eight indoor spaces and four outdoor space are approved for use by children. Spaces 1, 5, 6 & 7 are not currently in use and children are not enrolled in these spaces at this time. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. In spaces for infants and toddlers, materials are kept in identifiable grouping including books, blocks, dolls, pretend play materials, musical toys, sensory toys and fine motor toys. An open area that allows freedom of movement was available, both indoors and outdoors, for infants and for toddlers; as well as hands-on experiences. All infants were awake and on the floor exploring the space and playing with various age-appropriate toys. Toddlers, preschooler and school-age children were observed during free play in their classrooms. Children were dancing, building and playing with animals in blocks, cooking in dramatic play, drawing in art and building with magnetic panels in fine motor. Spaces for preschool and school age children are arranged into activity areas to include but are not limited to art, blocks, dramatic play, music, cozy, science, manipulatives, writing and language. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible in each activity area. The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website reflected the following information about your center’s required three-year water testing, lead paint testing, and asbestos testing: Three-year Water Testing was completed March 20, 2024. The Lead Paint Testing and Asbestos Testing was completed May 21 2024, indicating the center is exempt. All staff members employed at least one year have completed the required Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102, and staff members employed five years or more have repeated all topics within five years as required. Violation Number Comment Rule 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu posted reflected cheese pizza, corn, pineapples and milk. The menu served was ham and cheese sandwiches, corn, pineapples and milk. Food substitutions were not noted on the menu. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 1123 All vehicles used to transport children were not free of hazards. In the can used to transport children, the plastic seat belt covers on top of the seat were had come unattached and were dangling along the seatbelt straps. The cup holder was missing on the front row. Screws were missing from the side paneling next to the seats on the first and second row. 10A NCAC 09 .1002(a) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. Any violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before September 5, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Andrea Johnson, Child Care Consultant andrea.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov PO Box 904 Beaufort, NC 28516 252-732-0183 If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance regarding the violations cited: Menu: When you realize a food substitution is needed, update all posted menus immediately to reflect the change. Van: Ensure the van used to transport children is in good repair. Check the can daily to address any potential hazards. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: • You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and • If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and will be posted, on the QRIS Modernization page. • In September, child care consultants will host in-person facility operator/administrator meetings within the counties they serve to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. • Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities in order to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming informational settings and working with you on your pathway to the stars! Technical Assistance: Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database): 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 within five business days. You have completed the training and linked your staff to your facility. AWARD$ Plus Program: The Infant Toddler Educator AWARD$ program has recently gone through some exciting programmatic updates. The original AWARD$ program was only available to teachers working full-time in Birth to Three classrooms that had an AA in ECE or higher degree and were employed by 4- and 5-star programs. The education requirement has been reduced as an incentive to support teachers seeking to increase their education in any star rated licensed program. Visit www.childcareservices.org/award for additional information. The Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-PLUS (MCCYN-PLUS) initiative launched in North Carolina to make it easier for military families to access and afford quality child care from community providers. Licensed child care facilities are now able to participate in MCCYN-PLUS based on their star rating. If you are interested in participating in the military fee assistance program, please visit: https://www.childcareaware.org/feeassistancerespite/feeassistancerespiteproviders/feeassistance/ to review the application process. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Documentation was completed and reviewed on site, printed and signed. Remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Jennifer.j.garner@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1447 with any questions or concerns regarding this visit. 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 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: JENNIFER GARNER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 31 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance during your annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including staff and children’s files. This facility currently operates with a Four Star License issued July 25, 2019. Restrictions on the permit include: first and second shift capacity of 145 children 0-12 years of age, meets enhanced ratios and space. Ajay Goyal is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. Restrictions were in compliance today. The program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled; this program uses the Creative Curriculum for Preschool. The status of the corporation which owns the facility, Children’s Castle Child Care, Inc, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office today August 26, 2025. The last annual compliance was conducted on September 4, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed April 14, 2025, with an Approved classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on June 11, 2025. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 92%. Administrator A. Reynolds was present and available for consultation today. Eight indoor spaces and four outdoor space are approved for use by children. Spaces 1, 5, 6 & 7 are not currently in use and children are not enrolled in these spaces at this time. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. In spaces for infants and toddlers, materials are kept in identifiable grouping including books, blocks, dolls, pretend play materials, musical toys, sensory toys and fine motor toys. An open area that allows freedom of movement was available, both indoors and outdoors, for infants and for toddlers; as well as hands-on experiences. All infants were awake and on the floor exploring the space and playing with various age-appropriate toys. Toddlers, preschooler and school-age children were observed during free play in their classrooms. Children were dancing, building and playing with animals in blocks, cooking in dramatic play, drawing in art and building with magnetic panels in fine motor. Spaces for preschool and school age children are arranged into activity areas to include but are not limited to art, blocks, dramatic play, music, cozy, science, manipulatives, writing and language. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible in each activity area. The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website reflected the following information about your center’s required three-year water testing, lead paint testing, and asbestos testing: Three-year Water Testing was completed March 20, 2024. The Lead Paint Testing and Asbestos Testing was completed May 21 2024, indicating the center is exempt. All staff members employed at least one year have completed the required Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102, and staff members employed five years or more have repeated all topics within five years as required. Violation Number Comment Rule 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu posted reflected cheese pizza, corn, pineapples and milk. The menu served was ham and cheese sandwiches, corn, pineapples and milk. Food substitutions were not noted on the menu. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 1123 All vehicles used to transport children were not free of hazards. In the can used to transport children, the plastic seat belt covers on top of the seat were had come unattached and were dangling along the seatbelt straps. The cup holder was missing on the front row. Screws were missing from the side paneling next to the seats on the first and second row. 10A NCAC 09 .1002(a) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. Any violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before September 5, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Andrea Johnson, Child Care Consultant andrea.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov PO Box 904 Beaufort, NC 28516 252-732-0183 If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance regarding the violations cited: Menu: When you realize a food substitution is needed, update all posted menus immediately to reflect the change. Van: Ensure the van used to transport children is in good repair. Check the can daily to address any potential hazards. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: • You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and • If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and will be posted, on the QRIS Modernization page. • In September, child care consultants will host in-person facility operator/administrator meetings within the counties they serve to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. • Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities in order to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming informational settings and working with you on your pathway to the stars! Technical Assistance: Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database): 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 within five business days. You have completed the training and linked your staff to your facility. AWARD$ Plus Program: The Infant Toddler Educator AWARD$ program has recently gone through some exciting programmatic updates. The original AWARD$ program was only available to teachers working full-time in Birth to Three classrooms that had an AA in ECE or higher degree and were employed by 4- and 5-star programs. The education requirement has been reduced as an incentive to support teachers seeking to increase their education in any star rated licensed program. Visit www.childcareservices.org/award for additional information. The Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-PLUS (MCCYN-PLUS) initiative launched in North Carolina to make it easier for military families to access and afford quality child care from community providers. Licensed child care facilities are now able to participate in MCCYN-PLUS based on their star rating. If you are interested in participating in the military fee assistance program, please visit: https://www.childcareaware.org/feeassistancerespite/feeassistancerespiteproviders/feeassistance/ to review the application process. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Documentation was completed and reviewed on site, printed and signed. Remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Jennifer.j.garner@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1447 with any questions or concerns regarding this visit. 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: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: JENNIFER GARNER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 31 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance during your annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including staff and children’s files. This facility currently operates with a Four Star License issued July 25, 2019. Restrictions on the permit include: first and second shift capacity of 145 children 0-12 years of age, meets enhanced ratios and space. Ajay Goyal is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. Restrictions were in compliance today. The program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled; this program uses the Creative Curriculum for Preschool. The status of the corporation which owns the facility, Children’s Castle Child Care, Inc, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office today August 26, 2025. The last annual compliance was conducted on September 4, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed April 14, 2025, with an Approved classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on June 11, 2025. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 92%. Administrator A. Reynolds was present and available for consultation today. Eight indoor spaces and four outdoor space are approved for use by children. Spaces 1, 5, 6 & 7 are not currently in use and children are not enrolled in these spaces at this time. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. In spaces for infants and toddlers, materials are kept in identifiable grouping including books, blocks, dolls, pretend play materials, musical toys, sensory toys and fine motor toys. An open area that allows freedom of movement was available, both indoors and outdoors, for infants and for toddlers; as well as hands-on experiences. All infants were awake and on the floor exploring the space and playing with various age-appropriate toys. Toddlers, preschooler and school-age children were observed during free play in their classrooms. Children were dancing, building and playing with animals in blocks, cooking in dramatic play, drawing in art and building with magnetic panels in fine motor. Spaces for preschool and school age children are arranged into activity areas to include but are not limited to art, blocks, dramatic play, music, cozy, science, manipulatives, writing and language. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible in each activity area. The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website reflected the following information about your center’s required three-year water testing, lead paint testing, and asbestos testing: Three-year Water Testing was completed March 20, 2024. The Lead Paint Testing and Asbestos Testing was completed May 21 2024, indicating the center is exempt. All staff members employed at least one year have completed the required Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102, and staff members employed five years or more have repeated all topics within five years as required. Violation Number Comment Rule 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu posted reflected cheese pizza, corn, pineapples and milk. The menu served was ham and cheese sandwiches, corn, pineapples and milk. Food substitutions were not noted on the menu. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 1123 All vehicles used to transport children were not free of hazards. In the can used to transport children, the plastic seat belt covers on top of the seat were had come unattached and were dangling along the seatbelt straps. The cup holder was missing on the front row. Screws were missing from the side paneling next to the seats on the first and second row. 10A NCAC 09 .1002(a) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. Any violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before September 5, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Andrea Johnson, Child Care Consultant andrea.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov PO Box 904 Beaufort, NC 28516 252-732-0183 If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance regarding the violations cited: Menu: When you realize a food substitution is needed, update all posted menus immediately to reflect the change. Van: Ensure the van used to transport children is in good repair. Check the can daily to address any potential hazards. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: • You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and • If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and will be posted, on the QRIS Modernization page. • In September, child care consultants will host in-person facility operator/administrator meetings within the counties they serve to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. • Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities in order to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming informational settings and working with you on your pathway to the stars! Technical Assistance: Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database): 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 within five business days. You have completed the training and linked your staff to your facility. AWARD$ Plus Program: The Infant Toddler Educator AWARD$ program has recently gone through some exciting programmatic updates. The original AWARD$ program was only available to teachers working full-time in Birth to Three classrooms that had an AA in ECE or higher degree and were employed by 4- and 5-star programs. The education requirement has been reduced as an incentive to support teachers seeking to increase their education in any star rated licensed program. Visit www.childcareservices.org/award for additional information. The Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-PLUS (MCCYN-PLUS) initiative launched in North Carolina to make it easier for military families to access and afford quality child care from community providers. Licensed child care facilities are now able to participate in MCCYN-PLUS based on their star rating. If you are interested in participating in the military fee assistance program, please visit: https://www.childcareaware.org/feeassistancerespite/feeassistancerespiteproviders/feeassistance/ to review the application process. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Documentation was completed and reviewed on site, printed and signed. Remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Jennifer.j.garner@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1447 with any questions or concerns regarding this visit. 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: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: JENNIFER GARNER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/26/2025 Number Present: 31 Completed Date: 8/26/2025 Age: From 0 To 6 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 09:45 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance during your annual compliance visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today, including staff and children’s files. This facility currently operates with a Four Star License issued July 25, 2019. Restrictions on the permit include: first and second shift capacity of 145 children 0-12 years of age, meets enhanced ratios and space. Ajay Goyal is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. Restrictions were in compliance today. The program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled; this program uses the Creative Curriculum for Preschool. The status of the corporation which owns the facility, Children’s Castle Child Care, Inc, was verified as current and active with the NC Secretary of State’s office today August 26, 2025. The last annual compliance was conducted on September 4, 2024. The sanitation inspection was completed April 14, 2025, with an Approved classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on June 11, 2025. Prior to the visit, the facility had an eighteen-month compliance history score of 92%. Administrator A. Reynolds was present and available for consultation today. Eight indoor spaces and four outdoor space are approved for use by children. Spaces 1, 5, 6 & 7 are not currently in use and children are not enrolled in these spaces at this time. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. In spaces for infants and toddlers, materials are kept in identifiable grouping including books, blocks, dolls, pretend play materials, musical toys, sensory toys and fine motor toys. An open area that allows freedom of movement was available, both indoors and outdoors, for infants and for toddlers; as well as hands-on experiences. All infants were awake and on the floor exploring the space and playing with various age-appropriate toys. Toddlers, preschooler and school-age children were observed during free play in their classrooms. Children were dancing, building and playing with animals in blocks, cooking in dramatic play, drawing in art and building with magnetic panels in fine motor. Spaces for preschool and school age children are arranged into activity areas to include but are not limited to art, blocks, dramatic play, music, cozy, science, manipulatives, writing and language. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials were accessible in each activity area. The Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website reflected the following information about your center’s required three-year water testing, lead paint testing, and asbestos testing: Three-year Water Testing was completed March 20, 2024. The Lead Paint Testing and Asbestos Testing was completed May 21 2024, indicating the center is exempt. All staff members employed at least one year have completed the required Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102, and staff members employed five years or more have repeated all topics within five years as required. Violation Number Comment Rule 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu posted reflected cheese pizza, corn, pineapples and milk. The menu served was ham and cheese sandwiches, corn, pineapples and milk. Food substitutions were not noted on the menu. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 1123 All vehicles used to transport children were not free of hazards. In the can used to transport children, the plastic seat belt covers on top of the seat were had come unattached and were dangling along the seatbelt straps. The cup holder was missing on the front row. Screws were missing from the side paneling next to the seats on the first and second row. 10A NCAC 09 .1002(a) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violations documented may impact the compliance history score. Any violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before September 5, 2025, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Andrea Johnson, Child Care Consultant andrea.johnson@dhhs.nc.gov PO Box 904 Beaufort, NC 28516 252-732-0183 If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical assistance regarding the violations cited: Menu: When you realize a food substitution is needed, update all posted menus immediately to reflect the change. Van: Ensure the van used to transport children is in good repair. Check the can daily to address any potential hazards. Choosing a Pathway to the Stars The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: • You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and • If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and will be posted, on the QRIS Modernization page. • In September, child care consultants will host in-person facility operator/administrator meetings within the counties they serve to provide additional guidance on the changes, the transition plan and timeline. • Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities in order to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming informational settings and working with you on your pathway to the stars! Technical Assistance: Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database): 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 within five business days. You have completed the training and linked your staff to your facility. AWARD$ Plus Program: The Infant Toddler Educator AWARD$ program has recently gone through some exciting programmatic updates. The original AWARD$ program was only available to teachers working full-time in Birth to Three classrooms that had an AA in ECE or higher degree and were employed by 4- and 5-star programs. The education requirement has been reduced as an incentive to support teachers seeking to increase their education in any star rated licensed program. Visit www.childcareservices.org/award for additional information. The Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-PLUS (MCCYN-PLUS) initiative launched in North Carolina to make it easier for military families to access and afford quality child care from community providers. Licensed child care facilities are now able to participate in MCCYN-PLUS based on their star rating. If you are interested in participating in the military fee assistance program, please visit: https://www.childcareaware.org/feeassistancerespite/feeassistancerespiteproviders/feeassistance/ to review the application process. Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. Documentation was completed and reviewed on site, printed and signed. Remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Contact me at Jennifer.j.garner@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1447 with any questions or concerns regarding this visit. 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: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0124-165L Visit Date: 9/4/2024 Number Present: 49 Completed Date: 9/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 70 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 10:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violation of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: a concern that sanitation guidelines are not being followed, a concern that children are not being adequately supervised, and a concern that documentation is not being provided when a child is injured while in care. This facility currently operates with a 4 Star License, issued July 25, 2019 earning 6 points in Education, 4 points in Program, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the license include first and second shift care, children aged 0-12 years, meets enhanced ratios and space and Ajay Goyle is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. Prior to this visit, the facility’s eighteen-month compliance history was 93%. According to the NC Secretary of State website the corporation is current and active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted March 28, 2024. The last fire inspection was conducted July 1, 2024. The last approved sanitation was conducted March 28, 2024. Andrea Johnson, Child Care Consultant assisted with today’s visit. Lakesha Morrison and Treanina Stephens, administrators were present and available for consultation today. Today, there were forty-nine children, ranging in age from infants to 4-year-old were present. This visit was conducted in conjunction with an annual compliance visit. Investigation- I requested to view recorded video footage from the days the potential incidents occurred. The camera system did not provide any recorded footage rather only live video. Findings: Allegation 1: There is a concern that sanitation guidelines are not being followed. Staff members shared a one-year-old was served water in a sippy cup that had mold in the nipple. Staff explained, the child was upset, the staff member retrieved the cup from the child’s cubby, poured water in the cup and gave the child the water. During today’s visit, two Environmental Health inspectors arrived and conducted a routine inspection. The center was issued a Disapproved Inspection with 69 demerits. During our walk through and observations, concerns were observed. Many of the concerns were addressed in the sanitation inspection. In the classrooms for infants and toddlers, dirty mouthed toys were being kept around the handwashing sink. In all classrooms, the shelves used to store toys and materials were not clean as they had a collection of dust and dirt. In classroom space #3, during the diaper changing routine, staff members had to open the trash cans with their hand to dispose of wipes, diapers etc. Based on the reporter’s information, staff member’s information, environmental health reports, and my investigation, this allegation is Substantiated. Allegation 2: There is a concern that children are not being adequately supervised. You, Ms. Morrison, stated children are visually supervised at the facility. You added no staff have recently been written up for inappropriate supervision. Staff members stated children are visually supervised and they have not observed any lapses. During our walk through and observations, children were visually supervised. Staff were engaged in play with children, walking around supervising, diaper changing, and assisting children with cleanup. Based on the reporter’s information, staff member’s information, environmental health reports, and my investigation, this allegation is Unsubstantiated. Allegation 3 There is a concern that documentation is not being provided when a child is injured while in care. You stated you are not aware of any recent head injuries. In April 2024, one school-age child pushed another child, his sibling, into a shelf which resulted in medical attention. You submitted the incident report for this injury to me. Injury reports were reviewed since April 20204. It was determined, there have been sixteen incidents, but none were head injuries. Staff members concurred they are not aware of any injuries. They are not aware of any child hitting their heads or having any raised or bruised injuries on the body. Based on the reporter’s information, staff member’s information, environmental health reports, and my investigation, this allegation is Unsubstantiated. Violation Number Comment Rule 522 Multi-use articles, including highchair feeding trays, were not washed, rinsed and sanitized in the center's kitchen after each use. In classroom space #3, a child was served water in a sippie cup that had mold in the nipple. 15A NCAC 18A .2812(e) A violation was documented and must be corrected immediately. On or before September 14, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violation was corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Based on a Substantiated complaint, an administrative action may be issued. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Technical Assistance: A violation related to sanitation was documented. Multi-use articles, including highchair feeding trays, were not washed, rinsed and sanitized in the center's kitchen after each use. In classroom space #3, a child was served water in a sippy cup that had mold in the nipple. Mold in the sippy cups can make the child sick, causing coughing, wheezing, and other respiratory conditions. Any item that frequently comes into contact with water or is routinely in a moist area is very susceptible to mold growth. At the end of this visit, documentation was completed electronically, reviewed with you and emailed to you. Please remember it is your responsibility to comply with all child care rules and requirements at all times. Email me at Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov or call me at (910) 824-0470 with questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0124-249L Visit Date: 1/25/2024 Number Present: 54 Completed Date: 1/25/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 255 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegations are as follows: Children are not adequately supervised, incident reports are not prepared as required and the discipline policy is not followed. This facility currently operates with a 4 Star License, issued July 25, 2019 earning 6 points in Education, 4 points in Program, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the license include first and second shift care, children aged 0-12 years, meets enhanced ratios and space and Ajay Goyle is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. Prior to this visit, the facility’s eighteen-month compliance history was 91%. According to the NC Secretary of State website the corporation is current and active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted September 26, 2023. Lakesha Morrison and Treanina Stephens, administrators were present and available for consultation today. Today, there were fifty-four children, ranging in age from 4 months old to 5-years-old were present. All approved indoor spaces were monitored today. In the classroom for infants, there were eight present. Five of the eight infants were napping or were placed down to nap. Safe sleep check documentation was on file. The cribs were not individually labeled. The children in the classroom for one-year olds were engaged in activities such as singing and then played with a variety of toys such as trucks and cars. The staff members restricted the children in one area of the classroom. I provided technical assistance on this practice, appropriate caregiving activities, and transitions. In the classroom for two-year-olds, children were given tabletop toys and not allowed to play in other activity areas. Restricting the children to the tables contributed to a chaotic atmosphere, as children were throwing toys and dumping the tabletop toy bins. I modeled a transition and caregiving activity, then children were transitioned into activity centers which resulted in a calmer atmosphere. The three-year-olds were engaged in an indoor gross motor activity, as they were pretending to be butterflies. The preschool age group were sitting at the table listening to the teacher read a book. Lunch served today consisted of ham and cheese sandwiches, oranges, carrots, and milk. Investigation- Findings: You stated you feel this complaint report is the result of a disgruntled staff member. The staff member was upset with you on Tuesday and walked out of the center. Allegation 1: Children are not adequately supervised. You stated children are visually supervised and ratios are always in compliance. You and Ms. Stephens are in and out of the classrooms daily providing staff breaks, observing, and watching the cameras. Staff members inform you if there is a concern or need in their classroom. Staff indicated they were trained that children must be visually supervised at all times. Today, children were visually supervised and staff child ratios were in compliance. Staff floated around the classrooms, engaged in play and responded when children were in need. Based on today’s observations, staff members information, this allegation is Unsubstantiated. Allegation 2: Incident reports are not prepared as required. You stated injuries are documented as required. If a child is injured, the child’s teacher will notify one of the administrators via walkie talkie of the injury. One of the administrators goes down with an ice pack and an Incident report. The staff member completes the Incident report and returns it to the administrator or office. You explained you contact parents for the majority of all injuries. You added if the injury results in a bump, bite, scratch, staff typically give an ice pack. If it’s a head injury or bruising, you immediately contact the parents. Staff reported incidents are documented as required. I reviewed incident reports for the last two weeks. There were six accident reports and three behavior reports. The reports were documented accurately. There was one accident that occurred with a school-age on January 5, 2024 where the child received medical care. You completed the report as required and submitted it to me on January 11, 2024. Based on today’s observations and staff members information, this allegation is Unsubstantiated. Be reminded the Incident form is to be completed for all injuries. Anytime a child receives medical attention as a result of an incident occurring at a child care facility, the form must be submitted to your child care consultant within 7 calendar days. Allegation 3: The discipline policy is not followed. You stated the center follows the discipline policy. You determine if the behavior is typical or if there is an underlying issue with the child. You stated you discuss inappropriate behaviors with parents. If there is an injury as the result of a negative behavior, you immediately contact the child’s parent. You have not disenrolled a child in the last month. Today, I conducted observation in all the classrooms. I did not witness any behaviors that were not typical and that were not handled by the staff members. Based on a review of the center’s discipline policy, it appears you are following the policy. You explained you have flexibility and are able to work with the child and family when challenging behaviors occur. Based on today’s observations, staff members information, this allegation is Unsubstantiated. Violation Number Comment Rule 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. In classroom space #2, the child's bed/crib was not individually assigned and identified. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. In classroom space #3, the knob on the sink faucet was missing and the stem was exposed. .0601(c) Violations were documented during the complaint investigation. On or before February 2, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Kim Sherry, Child Care Consultant, Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Technical Assistance for Violation Cited: A violation was documented related equipment and furnishings in child care rule .0601. In classroom space #3, the knob on the sink faucet was missing and the stem was exposed. I observed a two-year-old child trying to turn on the water to wash her hands. Staff stated it had been broken for a period of time. Immediate Correction- Books and materials are needed in classroom space #3, and #4 immediately. Books are in limited supply or are in disrepair. Additional Information: As discussed on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, staff need training on Classroom Management. You explained you have reached out to One Place and they have provided resources related to training and a visit with the TA Specialist is scheduled for next week. Other concerns- You have installed red dirt on the playground which has resulted in children tracking the dirt into the center. I encourage you to install grass or another surfacing to prevent children and staff from walking in the dirt and bringing indoors. The infants should be taken out daily, weather permitting. Provide a large vinyl mat that can be used for outdoor play. The visit summary was completed on-site and emailed to the administrator. You may contact me, Kim Sherry at 910-824-1143 or Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0124-165L Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 1/24/2024 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 130 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 01:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegation is as follows: There is a concern that a child was cared for in a nurturing and caring manner. This facility currently operates with a 4 Star License, issued July 25, 2019 earning 6 points in Education, 4 points in Program, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the license include first and second shift care, children aged 0-12 years, meets enhanced ratios and space and Ajay Goyle is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. Prior to this visit, the facility’s eighteen-month compliance history was 91%. According to the NC Secretary of State website the corporation is current and active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted September 26, 2023. Lakesha Morrison and Treanani Stephens, administrators were present and available for consultation today. Today, there were sixty-six children, ranging in age from 4 months old to 12-years-old were present. All approved indoor spaces were monitored today. In the classroom for infants, four of the infants were eating table food sitting at the child size table or in the highchairs, one was napping, and the other three were lying on the floor on a bobby pillow or other soft sitter. The three infants lying on the boppy pillows were crying off and on, as the two staff members were assisting and supervising the other four children with meals. The assistant administrator who was accompanying me during the visit, sat down on the floor to care for those infants. Safe sleep documentation for the one infant napping was not current, the last safe sleep check was documented at 10:15am. The classroom for one-year olds was chaotic, there were some children finishing up their lunch, several children were jumping/walking around, pulling and throwing books from the bookshelf, one child was eating off the floor, etc. In the classroom for two-year-olds, children were transitioning from lunch routines to nap time, there was food all over the floor and children were walking through it. The group of the three-year-olds were sitting and listening to the teacher read a book while they waited for their lunch to arrive. The 4- and 5-year-olds were engaged in free play activities with manipulatives. Three of these children were crying off and on during the observations. The school-agers had transitioned from outdoors to indoors in preparation for lunch routines. They were washing their hands and sitting at the tables. Investigation- Findings: Allegation: There are concerns that children are not cared for in a nurturing/caring manner. I conducted a walk through and observations in the six classrooms that were open. You and Ms. Stephens stated children are cared for in a nurturing and caring manner. You explained you are in and out of the classrooms daily, you provide breaks for staff, provide technical assistance and overall help in the classrooms so you are aware of how children are treated. You have walkie talkies, so staff call if they need assistance. In addition, you stated you routinely observe the cameras. Ms. Stephens stated the staff love and care for the kids in their care. During the observations, staff members spoke to children in an appropriate tone. Staff appeared familiar with the children’s routines. They sat and talked with the children during lunch routines. Staff gave children opportunities for free play and were fully present during the activities. One staff member sat and read a book to the group of three-year-olds. Another staff member played ‘Red Rover’ with the group of school-agers. Based on the interviews and your information, on the afternoon of January 18, 2024, there was a three-year-old child that was changed from his soiled pants to a clean pull-up. The child did not have extra clothes available. The child’s teacher informed Ms. Stephens that pants were needed for the child. Ms. Stephens began looking for a pair of pants, was pulled away to deal with staffing concerns, and then returned to continue to look for pants for this child. As she was looking inside a cabinet for clothes, the child’s parent arrived to pick up her child. You further explained Ms. Stephens has repeatedly requested the child’s parents to bring in extra clothes. Based on today’s observations, staff members information, this allegation of nurture, care and treatment is Unsubstantiated. A violation was documented as extra clothes were not available. If the child does not have extra clothes available, it is the center’s responsibility to have extra clothes immediately accessible to prevent a child from going without clothing. Violation Number Comment Rule 402 Each child's diapers were not changed at areas designated exclusively for diapering, on a surface that was smooth, nonabsorbent, easily cleanable and of tight construction. In classroom space #3, there was a nonabsorbent piece of fabric located on the diapering table, as the top was vinyl and back side was felt. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(a) & (b) 803 There were no clean clothes available for the children to wear when children's clothes became wet or soiled. On January 18, 2024, a 3 year-old child's soiled pants was changed to a pull up. Extra pants were not available. 10A NCAC 09 .0806(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In classroom space #3, a one-year old picked up left over food from the floor and placed in their mouth. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. One infant was napping and safe sleep checks were not current. A check for this infant was last documented at 10:15am and I verified the safe sleep checks at 11am. .0606(g) 9999 NCAC 18A.2824(e)All floors and floor coverings shall be kept clean and maintained in good repair. In classrooms spaces #2, #3, and #4, the floors and carpets were dirty and a ring of dirt had collected around the edge of the classroom rugs. Violations were documented during the complaint investigation. On or before February 2, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Kim Sherry, Child Care Consultant, Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Technical Assistance for Violation Cited: A violation was documented related to toileting and clothing in child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0806. On January 18, 2024, a 3-year-old child was changed from soiled clothes to a pull up. Extra clothes were not available. The facility must have an extra change of clothes available if none are available from the parent. A violation was documented related to Sanitation- The center needs a thorough routine cleaning. Keeping the child care environment clean is one of the best ways to help ensure that children stay healthy. Dirty toys, bedding, linens, eating utensils, and surfaces can carry and spread germs. Regular disinfecting, cleaning, etc. should be a part of the routine in a child care setting. In addition, children should not be picking up food and eating off the floor. The floors harbor bacteria and germs. A violation was documented related to safe sleep checks in child care rule .0606- Safe sleep checks are important to ensure the napping infant isn’t having any difficulty napping and to verify your staff members are supervising and physically checking on the napping infants. The documentation is a way for staff to be reminded to check the napping baby. I strongly encourage you to use individual timers to ensure safe sleep checks for each child is completed within the required timeframe. Administrative staff could ‘spot check’ safe sleep check documentation to ensure it is being completed in real time and to maintain according to the facility’s safe sleep policy. Additional Information: Classroom Management- I observed concerns related to classroom management. A classroom environment needs effective management tools. Without them, your classroom has the potential to be chaotic, unsafe, distracting, and disorganized. Running and other disruptive behaviors present a safety hazard in the classroom. When kids are always where you expect them to be, you can supervise them closely, prevent accidents and stop conflict before it starts. It is critical that each classroom has a routine and plan for transitions. Contact One Place for technical assistance with classroom management skills. Be reminded: Continue to ensure each child should be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. Some examples of nurturing behavior are: being fully present in your interactions with children (verbally and non-verbally), validating their feelings, providing physical affection and comfort when sought, laughing and playing games, providing safe mental, physical and social challenges that promote healthy growth and development. The Regulatory System was not available; therefore, this visit summary was emailed to the administrator. You may contact me, Kim Sherry at 910-824-1143 or Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0806 · Violation

Name of Operation: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0124-165L Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 1/24/2024 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 130 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 01:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegation is as follows: There is a concern that a child was cared for in a nurturing and caring manner. This facility currently operates with a 4 Star License, issued July 25, 2019 earning 6 points in Education, 4 points in Program, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the license include first and second shift care, children aged 0-12 years, meets enhanced ratios and space and Ajay Goyle is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. Prior to this visit, the facility’s eighteen-month compliance history was 91%. According to the NC Secretary of State website the corporation is current and active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted September 26, 2023. Lakesha Morrison and Treanani Stephens, administrators were present and available for consultation today. Today, there were sixty-six children, ranging in age from 4 months old to 12-years-old were present. All approved indoor spaces were monitored today. In the classroom for infants, four of the infants were eating table food sitting at the child size table or in the highchairs, one was napping, and the other three were lying on the floor on a bobby pillow or other soft sitter. The three infants lying on the boppy pillows were crying off and on, as the two staff members were assisting and supervising the other four children with meals. The assistant administrator who was accompanying me during the visit, sat down on the floor to care for those infants. Safe sleep documentation for the one infant napping was not current, the last safe sleep check was documented at 10:15am. The classroom for one-year olds was chaotic, there were some children finishing up their lunch, several children were jumping/walking around, pulling and throwing books from the bookshelf, one child was eating off the floor, etc. In the classroom for two-year-olds, children were transitioning from lunch routines to nap time, there was food all over the floor and children were walking through it. The group of the three-year-olds were sitting and listening to the teacher read a book while they waited for their lunch to arrive. The 4- and 5-year-olds were engaged in free play activities with manipulatives. Three of these children were crying off and on during the observations. The school-agers had transitioned from outdoors to indoors in preparation for lunch routines. They were washing their hands and sitting at the tables. Investigation- Findings: Allegation: There are concerns that children are not cared for in a nurturing/caring manner. I conducted a walk through and observations in the six classrooms that were open. You and Ms. Stephens stated children are cared for in a nurturing and caring manner. You explained you are in and out of the classrooms daily, you provide breaks for staff, provide technical assistance and overall help in the classrooms so you are aware of how children are treated. You have walkie talkies, so staff call if they need assistance. In addition, you stated you routinely observe the cameras. Ms. Stephens stated the staff love and care for the kids in their care. During the observations, staff members spoke to children in an appropriate tone. Staff appeared familiar with the children’s routines. They sat and talked with the children during lunch routines. Staff gave children opportunities for free play and were fully present during the activities. One staff member sat and read a book to the group of three-year-olds. Another staff member played ‘Red Rover’ with the group of school-agers. Based on the interviews and your information, on the afternoon of January 18, 2024, there was a three-year-old child that was changed from his soiled pants to a clean pull-up. The child did not have extra clothes available. The child’s teacher informed Ms. Stephens that pants were needed for the child. Ms. Stephens began looking for a pair of pants, was pulled away to deal with staffing concerns, and then returned to continue to look for pants for this child. As she was looking inside a cabinet for clothes, the child’s parent arrived to pick up her child. You further explained Ms. Stephens has repeatedly requested the child’s parents to bring in extra clothes. Based on today’s observations, staff members information, this allegation of nurture, care and treatment is Unsubstantiated. A violation was documented as extra clothes were not available. If the child does not have extra clothes available, it is the center’s responsibility to have extra clothes immediately accessible to prevent a child from going without clothing. Violation Number Comment Rule 402 Each child's diapers were not changed at areas designated exclusively for diapering, on a surface that was smooth, nonabsorbent, easily cleanable and of tight construction. In classroom space #3, there was a nonabsorbent piece of fabric located on the diapering table, as the top was vinyl and back side was felt. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(a) & (b) 803 There were no clean clothes available for the children to wear when children's clothes became wet or soiled. On January 18, 2024, a 3 year-old child's soiled pants was changed to a pull up. Extra pants were not available. 10A NCAC 09 .0806(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In classroom space #3, a one-year old picked up left over food from the floor and placed in their mouth. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. One infant was napping and safe sleep checks were not current. A check for this infant was last documented at 10:15am and I verified the safe sleep checks at 11am. .0606(g) 9999 NCAC 18A.2824(e)All floors and floor coverings shall be kept clean and maintained in good repair. In classrooms spaces #2, #3, and #4, the floors and carpets were dirty and a ring of dirt had collected around the edge of the classroom rugs. Violations were documented during the complaint investigation. On or before February 2, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Kim Sherry, Child Care Consultant, Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Technical Assistance for Violation Cited: A violation was documented related to toileting and clothing in child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0806. On January 18, 2024, a 3-year-old child was changed from soiled clothes to a pull up. Extra clothes were not available. The facility must have an extra change of clothes available if none are available from the parent. A violation was documented related to Sanitation- The center needs a thorough routine cleaning. Keeping the child care environment clean is one of the best ways to help ensure that children stay healthy. Dirty toys, bedding, linens, eating utensils, and surfaces can carry and spread germs. Regular disinfecting, cleaning, etc. should be a part of the routine in a child care setting. In addition, children should not be picking up food and eating off the floor. The floors harbor bacteria and germs. A violation was documented related to safe sleep checks in child care rule .0606- Safe sleep checks are important to ensure the napping infant isn’t having any difficulty napping and to verify your staff members are supervising and physically checking on the napping infants. The documentation is a way for staff to be reminded to check the napping baby. I strongly encourage you to use individual timers to ensure safe sleep checks for each child is completed within the required timeframe. Administrative staff could ‘spot check’ safe sleep check documentation to ensure it is being completed in real time and to maintain according to the facility’s safe sleep policy. Additional Information: Classroom Management- I observed concerns related to classroom management. A classroom environment needs effective management tools. Without them, your classroom has the potential to be chaotic, unsafe, distracting, and disorganized. Running and other disruptive behaviors present a safety hazard in the classroom. When kids are always where you expect them to be, you can supervise them closely, prevent accidents and stop conflict before it starts. It is critical that each classroom has a routine and plan for transitions. Contact One Place for technical assistance with classroom management skills. Be reminded: Continue to ensure each child should be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. Some examples of nurturing behavior are: being fully present in your interactions with children (verbally and non-verbally), validating their feelings, providing physical affection and comfort when sought, laughing and playing games, providing safe mental, physical and social challenges that promote healthy growth and development. The Regulatory System was not available; therefore, this visit summary was emailed to the administrator. You may contact me, Kim Sherry at 910-824-1143 or Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0806 · Violation

Name of Operation: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0124-165L Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 1/24/2024 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 130 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 01:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegation is as follows: There is a concern that a child was cared for in a nurturing and caring manner. This facility currently operates with a 4 Star License, issued July 25, 2019 earning 6 points in Education, 4 points in Program, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the license include first and second shift care, children aged 0-12 years, meets enhanced ratios and space and Ajay Goyle is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. Prior to this visit, the facility’s eighteen-month compliance history was 91%. According to the NC Secretary of State website the corporation is current and active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted September 26, 2023. Lakesha Morrison and Treanani Stephens, administrators were present and available for consultation today. Today, there were sixty-six children, ranging in age from 4 months old to 12-years-old were present. All approved indoor spaces were monitored today. In the classroom for infants, four of the infants were eating table food sitting at the child size table or in the highchairs, one was napping, and the other three were lying on the floor on a bobby pillow or other soft sitter. The three infants lying on the boppy pillows were crying off and on, as the two staff members were assisting and supervising the other four children with meals. The assistant administrator who was accompanying me during the visit, sat down on the floor to care for those infants. Safe sleep documentation for the one infant napping was not current, the last safe sleep check was documented at 10:15am. The classroom for one-year olds was chaotic, there were some children finishing up their lunch, several children were jumping/walking around, pulling and throwing books from the bookshelf, one child was eating off the floor, etc. In the classroom for two-year-olds, children were transitioning from lunch routines to nap time, there was food all over the floor and children were walking through it. The group of the three-year-olds were sitting and listening to the teacher read a book while they waited for their lunch to arrive. The 4- and 5-year-olds were engaged in free play activities with manipulatives. Three of these children were crying off and on during the observations. The school-agers had transitioned from outdoors to indoors in preparation for lunch routines. They were washing their hands and sitting at the tables. Investigation- Findings: Allegation: There are concerns that children are not cared for in a nurturing/caring manner. I conducted a walk through and observations in the six classrooms that were open. You and Ms. Stephens stated children are cared for in a nurturing and caring manner. You explained you are in and out of the classrooms daily, you provide breaks for staff, provide technical assistance and overall help in the classrooms so you are aware of how children are treated. You have walkie talkies, so staff call if they need assistance. In addition, you stated you routinely observe the cameras. Ms. Stephens stated the staff love and care for the kids in their care. During the observations, staff members spoke to children in an appropriate tone. Staff appeared familiar with the children’s routines. They sat and talked with the children during lunch routines. Staff gave children opportunities for free play and were fully present during the activities. One staff member sat and read a book to the group of three-year-olds. Another staff member played ‘Red Rover’ with the group of school-agers. Based on the interviews and your information, on the afternoon of January 18, 2024, there was a three-year-old child that was changed from his soiled pants to a clean pull-up. The child did not have extra clothes available. The child’s teacher informed Ms. Stephens that pants were needed for the child. Ms. Stephens began looking for a pair of pants, was pulled away to deal with staffing concerns, and then returned to continue to look for pants for this child. As she was looking inside a cabinet for clothes, the child’s parent arrived to pick up her child. You further explained Ms. Stephens has repeatedly requested the child’s parents to bring in extra clothes. Based on today’s observations, staff members information, this allegation of nurture, care and treatment is Unsubstantiated. A violation was documented as extra clothes were not available. If the child does not have extra clothes available, it is the center’s responsibility to have extra clothes immediately accessible to prevent a child from going without clothing. Violation Number Comment Rule 402 Each child's diapers were not changed at areas designated exclusively for diapering, on a surface that was smooth, nonabsorbent, easily cleanable and of tight construction. In classroom space #3, there was a nonabsorbent piece of fabric located on the diapering table, as the top was vinyl and back side was felt. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(a) & (b) 803 There were no clean clothes available for the children to wear when children's clothes became wet or soiled. On January 18, 2024, a 3 year-old child's soiled pants was changed to a pull up. Extra pants were not available. 10A NCAC 09 .0806(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In classroom space #3, a one-year old picked up left over food from the floor and placed in their mouth. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. One infant was napping and safe sleep checks were not current. A check for this infant was last documented at 10:15am and I verified the safe sleep checks at 11am. .0606(g) 9999 NCAC 18A.2824(e)All floors and floor coverings shall be kept clean and maintained in good repair. In classrooms spaces #2, #3, and #4, the floors and carpets were dirty and a ring of dirt had collected around the edge of the classroom rugs. Violations were documented during the complaint investigation. On or before February 2, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Kim Sherry, Child Care Consultant, Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Technical Assistance for Violation Cited: A violation was documented related to toileting and clothing in child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0806. On January 18, 2024, a 3-year-old child was changed from soiled clothes to a pull up. Extra clothes were not available. The facility must have an extra change of clothes available if none are available from the parent. A violation was documented related to Sanitation- The center needs a thorough routine cleaning. Keeping the child care environment clean is one of the best ways to help ensure that children stay healthy. Dirty toys, bedding, linens, eating utensils, and surfaces can carry and spread germs. Regular disinfecting, cleaning, etc. should be a part of the routine in a child care setting. In addition, children should not be picking up food and eating off the floor. The floors harbor bacteria and germs. A violation was documented related to safe sleep checks in child care rule .0606- Safe sleep checks are important to ensure the napping infant isn’t having any difficulty napping and to verify your staff members are supervising and physically checking on the napping infants. The documentation is a way for staff to be reminded to check the napping baby. I strongly encourage you to use individual timers to ensure safe sleep checks for each child is completed within the required timeframe. Administrative staff could ‘spot check’ safe sleep check documentation to ensure it is being completed in real time and to maintain according to the facility’s safe sleep policy. Additional Information: Classroom Management- I observed concerns related to classroom management. A classroom environment needs effective management tools. Without them, your classroom has the potential to be chaotic, unsafe, distracting, and disorganized. Running and other disruptive behaviors present a safety hazard in the classroom. When kids are always where you expect them to be, you can supervise them closely, prevent accidents and stop conflict before it starts. It is critical that each classroom has a routine and plan for transitions. Contact One Place for technical assistance with classroom management skills. Be reminded: Continue to ensure each child should be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. Some examples of nurturing behavior are: being fully present in your interactions with children (verbally and non-verbally), validating their feelings, providing physical affection and comfort when sought, laughing and playing games, providing safe mental, physical and social challenges that promote healthy growth and development. The Regulatory System was not available; therefore, this visit summary was emailed to the administrator. You may contact me, Kim Sherry at 910-824-1143 or Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0124-165L Visit Date: 1/23/2024 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 1/24/2024 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 130 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 01:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to obtain information regarding alleged violations of child care requirements. The allegation is as follows: There is a concern that a child was cared for in a nurturing and caring manner. This facility currently operates with a 4 Star License, issued July 25, 2019 earning 6 points in Education, 4 points in Program, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the license include first and second shift care, children aged 0-12 years, meets enhanced ratios and space and Ajay Goyle is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. Prior to this visit, the facility’s eighteen-month compliance history was 91%. According to the NC Secretary of State website the corporation is current and active. The last annual compliance visit was conducted September 26, 2023. Lakesha Morrison and Treanani Stephens, administrators were present and available for consultation today. Today, there were sixty-six children, ranging in age from 4 months old to 12-years-old were present. All approved indoor spaces were monitored today. In the classroom for infants, four of the infants were eating table food sitting at the child size table or in the highchairs, one was napping, and the other three were lying on the floor on a bobby pillow or other soft sitter. The three infants lying on the boppy pillows were crying off and on, as the two staff members were assisting and supervising the other four children with meals. The assistant administrator who was accompanying me during the visit, sat down on the floor to care for those infants. Safe sleep documentation for the one infant napping was not current, the last safe sleep check was documented at 10:15am. The classroom for one-year olds was chaotic, there were some children finishing up their lunch, several children were jumping/walking around, pulling and throwing books from the bookshelf, one child was eating off the floor, etc. In the classroom for two-year-olds, children were transitioning from lunch routines to nap time, there was food all over the floor and children were walking through it. The group of the three-year-olds were sitting and listening to the teacher read a book while they waited for their lunch to arrive. The 4- and 5-year-olds were engaged in free play activities with manipulatives. Three of these children were crying off and on during the observations. The school-agers had transitioned from outdoors to indoors in preparation for lunch routines. They were washing their hands and sitting at the tables. Investigation- Findings: Allegation: There are concerns that children are not cared for in a nurturing/caring manner. I conducted a walk through and observations in the six classrooms that were open. You and Ms. Stephens stated children are cared for in a nurturing and caring manner. You explained you are in and out of the classrooms daily, you provide breaks for staff, provide technical assistance and overall help in the classrooms so you are aware of how children are treated. You have walkie talkies, so staff call if they need assistance. In addition, you stated you routinely observe the cameras. Ms. Stephens stated the staff love and care for the kids in their care. During the observations, staff members spoke to children in an appropriate tone. Staff appeared familiar with the children’s routines. They sat and talked with the children during lunch routines. Staff gave children opportunities for free play and were fully present during the activities. One staff member sat and read a book to the group of three-year-olds. Another staff member played ‘Red Rover’ with the group of school-agers. Based on the interviews and your information, on the afternoon of January 18, 2024, there was a three-year-old child that was changed from his soiled pants to a clean pull-up. The child did not have extra clothes available. The child’s teacher informed Ms. Stephens that pants were needed for the child. Ms. Stephens began looking for a pair of pants, was pulled away to deal with staffing concerns, and then returned to continue to look for pants for this child. As she was looking inside a cabinet for clothes, the child’s parent arrived to pick up her child. You further explained Ms. Stephens has repeatedly requested the child’s parents to bring in extra clothes. Based on today’s observations, staff members information, this allegation of nurture, care and treatment is Unsubstantiated. A violation was documented as extra clothes were not available. If the child does not have extra clothes available, it is the center’s responsibility to have extra clothes immediately accessible to prevent a child from going without clothing. Violation Number Comment Rule 402 Each child's diapers were not changed at areas designated exclusively for diapering, on a surface that was smooth, nonabsorbent, easily cleanable and of tight construction. In classroom space #3, there was a nonabsorbent piece of fabric located on the diapering table, as the top was vinyl and back side was felt. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(a) & (b) 803 There were no clean clothes available for the children to wear when children's clothes became wet or soiled. On January 18, 2024, a 3 year-old child's soiled pants was changed to a pull up. Extra pants were not available. 10A NCAC 09 .0806(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In classroom space #3, a one-year old picked up left over food from the floor and placed in their mouth. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. One infant was napping and safe sleep checks were not current. A check for this infant was last documented at 10:15am and I verified the safe sleep checks at 11am. .0606(g) 9999 NCAC 18A.2824(e)All floors and floor coverings shall be kept clean and maintained in good repair. In classrooms spaces #2, #3, and #4, the floors and carpets were dirty and a ring of dirt had collected around the edge of the classroom rugs. Violations were documented during the complaint investigation. On or before February 2, 2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Kim Sherry, Child Care Consultant, Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov. If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. Technical Assistance for Violation Cited: A violation was documented related to toileting and clothing in child care rule 10A NCAC 09 .0806. On January 18, 2024, a 3-year-old child was changed from soiled clothes to a pull up. Extra clothes were not available. The facility must have an extra change of clothes available if none are available from the parent. A violation was documented related to Sanitation- The center needs a thorough routine cleaning. Keeping the child care environment clean is one of the best ways to help ensure that children stay healthy. Dirty toys, bedding, linens, eating utensils, and surfaces can carry and spread germs. Regular disinfecting, cleaning, etc. should be a part of the routine in a child care setting. In addition, children should not be picking up food and eating off the floor. The floors harbor bacteria and germs. A violation was documented related to safe sleep checks in child care rule .0606- Safe sleep checks are important to ensure the napping infant isn’t having any difficulty napping and to verify your staff members are supervising and physically checking on the napping infants. The documentation is a way for staff to be reminded to check the napping baby. I strongly encourage you to use individual timers to ensure safe sleep checks for each child is completed within the required timeframe. Administrative staff could ‘spot check’ safe sleep check documentation to ensure it is being completed in real time and to maintain according to the facility’s safe sleep policy. Additional Information: Classroom Management- I observed concerns related to classroom management. A classroom environment needs effective management tools. Without them, your classroom has the potential to be chaotic, unsafe, distracting, and disorganized. Running and other disruptive behaviors present a safety hazard in the classroom. When kids are always where you expect them to be, you can supervise them closely, prevent accidents and stop conflict before it starts. It is critical that each classroom has a routine and plan for transitions. Contact One Place for technical assistance with classroom management skills. Be reminded: Continue to ensure each child should be attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, and in keeping with the child’s developmental needs. Some examples of nurturing behavior are: being fully present in your interactions with children (verbally and non-verbally), validating their feelings, providing physical affection and comfort when sought, laughing and playing games, providing safe mental, physical and social challenges that promote healthy growth and development. The Regulatory System was not available; therefore, this visit summary was emailed to the administrator. You may contact me, Kim Sherry at 910-824-1143 or Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09.0802 · Violation

Name of Operation: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: HEATHER BINDER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0124-103A Visit Date: 1/16/2024 Number Present: 52 Completed Date: 1/16/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 145 Time In: 11:50 AM Time Out: 02:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. I completed a walk-through of the facility unaccompanied. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Lakesha Morrison, Administrator, and two (2) additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 873 Center staff did not follow the EMC plan. On January 5, 2024, a ten-year-old child was injured while in care and administrative staff failed to follow the Emergency Medical Care Plan as written. 10A NCAC 09.0802(a) You may contact Heather Binder, Investigations Consultant, at (252) 617-6237, heather.binder@dhhs.nc.gov or Corrie Davenport, Northeastern Investigations Supervisor, at corrie.davenport@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/26/2023 Number Present: 49 Completed Date: 9/26/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 11:40 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. This facility currently operates with a 4 Star License, issued July 25, 2019 earning 6 points in Education, 4 points in Program, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the license include first and second shift care, children aged 0-12 years, meets enhanced ratios and space and Ajay Goyle is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. Prior to this visit, the facility’s eighteen-month compliance history was 89%. According to the NC Secretary of State website the corporation is current and active. April Bosse, Child Care Consultant, assisted with today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted September 29, 2022. The last Sanitation Inspection was conducted on May 17, 2023 with a Superior classification. The last Fire Inspection was conducted on June 23, 2023 - Facility was approved for daytime only. Lakesha Morrison and Treanina Stephens, administrators were present and available for consultation today. There are seventy-eight children enrolled and forty-nine children ages 0-4, were present today. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules were available for each group of children. Activity plans were observed posted in each classroom. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials was observed in each classroom. Infants in Space 2 received care based on individual need, including an observation of diapering where all sanitation procedures were observed and found to be compliance. Infants not engaged in routine care were observed playing on the carpeted area with soft toys such as rattles and soft blocks while caregivers sat on the floor and monitored supervision. Infant feeding schedules and safe sleep checks were monitored and found to be in compliance. One-year-old children in Space 3 were engaged in the outdoor area with push toys and taking a water break. Three-year-old children in Space 4 were observed outdoors playing with ride on toys, sand tables, balls, and sliding on the slide. Preschool children in Spaces 5 and 6 were painting in a large group activity and engaged in activity areas pretending to eat ice cream, and manipulative toys. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey and cheese sandwiches on whole grain bread, peas, mandarin oranges, and milk. Staff and children’s files were observed today. There are a total of eighteen staff members on staff with fifteen that are new. Five of the eighteen staff members must complete the Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Transportation requirements were monitored today as the facility provides transportation from local schools for school age children. Requirements were in compliance today. The following violation was documented today: Violation Number Comment Rule 402 Each child's diapers were not changed at areas designated exclusively for diapering, on a surface that was smooth, nonabsorbent, easily cleanable and of tight construction. In classroom space #2, the diaper changing mat on the changing table did not have a non-absorbent backing on it. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(a) & (b) Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. One violation was documented and was corrected during the visit. No action is needed. Technical Assistance: A violation was documented related to diapering in child care rule .2819. Each child's diapers were not changed on a surface that was smooth, nonabsorbent, easily cleanable and of tight construction. Today, the diaper changing mat on the changing table in Space 2 did not have a non-absorbent backing on it. This could cause germs to enter the soft cushioning of the mat and causes the mat to become soiled since the surface cannot be wiped clean with the disinfectant solution. Today, you replaced the diaper changing pad with a new pad that has nonabsorbent material on all sides. Today we discussed the mulch on the preschool playground. The mulch around the climber is resilient as you walk across it and is the correct depth as required. The mulch around the base of the slides is beginning to become compacted from daily use. Today technical assistance was given regarding how to maintain the resiliency of the mulch at the base of the slide. I suggested that you “fluff” the mulch by raking it at the end of the slide and pushing it back to the base as often as possible. This will ensure that the mulch remains resilient at the end of the slides. New Information: On July 1, 2023, Child Care Rules were revised, and a new rule book was posted and available to you on the DCDEE website. I encourage you to purge any previous versions and refer to the most current licensing rule book. As recently shared in my newsletter, sanitation rules were also revised recently. Encourage you to review any email blasts regarding the changes or and participate in any training opportunities. Training Opportunities- There will be in-person training tomorrow, Wednesday, September 27, 2023, starting at 9am till 2pm at One Place. You may attend one or you may attend all three. (ITERS-R - 9:00am-10:30am, ECERS-R 11am-12:30pm, SACERS-U 1pm- 2:00pm). At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Kim Sherry, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-1143, or Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: CHILDREN'S CASTLE CHILD CARE, INC. Facility ID: 67001044 Consultant: KIM SHERRY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/26/2023 Number Present: 49 Completed Date: 9/26/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 09:10 AM Time Out: 11:40 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. This facility currently operates with a 4 Star License, issued July 25, 2019 earning 6 points in Education, 4 points in Program, and 1 quality point. Restrictions on the license include first and second shift care, children aged 0-12 years, meets enhanced ratios and space and Ajay Goyle is not allowed on the premises during operating hours. Prior to this visit, the facility’s eighteen-month compliance history was 89%. According to the NC Secretary of State website the corporation is current and active. April Bosse, Child Care Consultant, assisted with today’s visit. The last annual compliance visit was conducted September 29, 2022. The last Sanitation Inspection was conducted on May 17, 2023 with a Superior classification. The last Fire Inspection was conducted on June 23, 2023 - Facility was approved for daytime only. Lakesha Morrison and Treanina Stephens, administrators were present and available for consultation today. There are seventy-eight children enrolled and forty-nine children ages 0-4, were present today. All approved indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored today. Daily schedules were available for each group of children. Activity plans were observed posted in each classroom. A variety of age-appropriate learning materials was observed in each classroom. Infants in Space 2 received care based on individual need, including an observation of diapering where all sanitation procedures were observed and found to be compliance. Infants not engaged in routine care were observed playing on the carpeted area with soft toys such as rattles and soft blocks while caregivers sat on the floor and monitored supervision. Infant feeding schedules and safe sleep checks were monitored and found to be in compliance. One-year-old children in Space 3 were engaged in the outdoor area with push toys and taking a water break. Three-year-old children in Space 4 were observed outdoors playing with ride on toys, sand tables, balls, and sliding on the slide. Preschool children in Spaces 5 and 6 were painting in a large group activity and engaged in activity areas pretending to eat ice cream, and manipulative toys. Today’s lunch consisted of turkey and cheese sandwiches on whole grain bread, peas, mandarin oranges, and milk. Staff and children’s files were observed today. There are a total of eighteen staff members on staff with fifteen that are new. Five of the eighteen staff members must complete the Health and Safety trainings as outlined in Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1102. Transportation requirements were monitored today as the facility provides transportation from local schools for school age children. Requirements were in compliance today. The following violation was documented today: Violation Number Comment Rule 402 Each child's diapers were not changed at areas designated exclusively for diapering, on a surface that was smooth, nonabsorbent, easily cleanable and of tight construction. In classroom space #2, the diaper changing mat on the changing table did not have a non-absorbent backing on it. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(a) & (b) Child Care programs are expected to always achieve and maintain compliance with child care rules, and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. One violation was documented and was corrected during the visit. No action is needed. Technical Assistance: A violation was documented related to diapering in child care rule .2819. Each child's diapers were not changed on a surface that was smooth, nonabsorbent, easily cleanable and of tight construction. Today, the diaper changing mat on the changing table in Space 2 did not have a non-absorbent backing on it. This could cause germs to enter the soft cushioning of the mat and causes the mat to become soiled since the surface cannot be wiped clean with the disinfectant solution. Today, you replaced the diaper changing pad with a new pad that has nonabsorbent material on all sides. Today we discussed the mulch on the preschool playground. The mulch around the climber is resilient as you walk across it and is the correct depth as required. The mulch around the base of the slides is beginning to become compacted from daily use. Today technical assistance was given regarding how to maintain the resiliency of the mulch at the base of the slide. I suggested that you “fluff” the mulch by raking it at the end of the slide and pushing it back to the base as often as possible. This will ensure that the mulch remains resilient at the end of the slides. New Information: On July 1, 2023, Child Care Rules were revised, and a new rule book was posted and available to you on the DCDEE website. I encourage you to purge any previous versions and refer to the most current licensing rule book. As recently shared in my newsletter, sanitation rules were also revised recently. Encourage you to review any email blasts regarding the changes or and participate in any training opportunities. Training Opportunities- There will be in-person training tomorrow, Wednesday, September 27, 2023, starting at 9am till 2pm at One Place. You may attend one or you may attend all three. (ITERS-R - 9:00am-10:30am, ECERS-R 11am-12:30pm, SACERS-U 1pm- 2:00pm). At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Kim Sherry, Child Care Consultant, 910-824-1143, or Kim.Sherry@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times