Kindercare-Sardis

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE-SARDIS Facility ID: 90000532 Consultant: TRACI J. MEYER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/13/2026 Number Present: 83 Completed Date: 4/13/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 117 Time In: 08:42 AM Time Out: 10:39 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an unannounced routine visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. P. Metcalf. I shared the reason for the visit and she assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a Five Star (5) Center License. The license was posted, with restrictions to: first shift (1st) care, meets enhanced ratios and enhanced space. They hold a Accreditation Pathway, NAEYC star license. This is due for reaccreditation on or before 12/1/28. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-nine (89%) percent before today’s visit. The following items were monitored: Licensing Posted, Permit Restrictions, Staff/Child Ratio, Supervision, Specialized Trainings, Storage of Hazardous Substances and Storage of Medication, Program Records, and General Safety. Fire and Sanitation Inspections have not occurred since the last visit and remain current. The following items above were found in/out of compliance. The following inspections are below. •Last fire drill was conducted on 4/1/26 •Last Shelter in Place/Lockdown Drill was conducted on 3/31/26 •Last Playground Inspection was conducted on 3/31/26 The children were observed in the room that serves infant aged children to be participating in sleeping and feeding activities. The children in rooms that serve toddler aged children were participating in transitioning from AM meal to teacher led group time activities. The children in the rooms that serve preschool aged children were participating in transitioning from teacher led morning routines to self[-directed free play or participation in a group lead gym activity. Outdoor Learning Environment was verfied to be in compliance. Please remember to rake mulch around swing areas to avoid compaction. Staff Records: The staff-training worksheets were completed during the visit. There were two (2) new staff files to monitor. Both new staff were verified in the ABCMS system. Medication: Medication was monitored and guidance was provided for epi-pen medication authorization. Nutrition: The menu and allergy listing was posted and for lunch the children were having egg sandwiches, turkey sausage, strawberries, broccoli and milk. Weapons: Today you reported that your facility was in compliance with childcare requirements regarding firearms. Transportation: Transportation is not provided. One (1) violation was observed today. The violations are as follows Violation Number Comment Rule 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. In the space three (3) a perscription emergency medication did not have the required signature on the authorization to administer form. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) On or before 4/26/26 I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant PO Box 1293 Matthews, NC 28106 OR Traci.Meyer@dhhs.nc.gov 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 (75%). Any violation (s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The compliance history could be impacted after today’s visit. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Technical Assistance •The Healthy Social Behaviors Project offers coaching for child care providers who would like support managing challenging classroom behaviors. The goal is to empower teachers to create learning environments that promote pro-social skills, like self-control and problem solving. Support is available by phone (888-600-1685, Option 1), email, or through an online form. •Trainings Available from Birth-Three Quality Initiative Explore the many live and on-demand trainings from Birth-Three Quality Initiative. Courses include Nurturing Little Minds, Applying NCFELD to Infant-Toddler Planning, and Building Relationships with Infants and Toddlers •Guidance was offered when using the ABCMS Provider Portal pertaining to associating staff or household members, making payments, and creating rosters. The facility is in compliance with ABCMS requirements. •At the next Annual Compliance visit, a copy of the NAEYC accreditation will be submitted to issue a three (3) year license. The last license was issued in December of 2024 and is due for renewal in 2027. The facility will begin the NAEYC recertification in 2027 and once that is completed, depending on the outcome of renewal, a new license should be able to be issued to reflect a new three (3) year time line. This will help align the NAEYC accreditation dates, specifically the month with the DCDEE licensing dates. The time line for both licenses are different. We jointly reviewed the visit summary and documentation of my findings and violations with you, I encouraged you to ask any questions and you stated that you had none. Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov to get the latest updates. If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact me at 704-594-0041 or via email at Traci.Meyer@dhhs.nc.gov or Ebony Duncan, Licensing Supervisor ebony.duncan@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your assistance during today’s visit. Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant Division of Child Development and Early Education 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 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE-SARDIS Facility ID: 90000532 Consultant: TRACI J. MEYER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/6/2026 Number Present: 99 Completed Date: 1/6/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 296 Time In: 08:47 AM Time Out: 01:43 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an unannounced annual compliance visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by I shared the reason for the visit. Ms. P. Metcalf accompanied me throughout the walk-through of the facility and the outdoor learning environments. Your program currently operates with a Five (5) star center license. The license was posted, with restrictions to first (1st) shift care, meets enhanced ratios and is accredited through NAEYC. Ownership: The facility owner is KinderCare Learning LLC #: 2523889 which is active an current. If any changes to the ownership need to be made, you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to this facility and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers. I monitored the following items today: supervision, staff/child ratio, staff, health, safety, and program records. All licensed spaces were observed. Program Records: We reviewed all the required records and were in compliance. Inspections: All inspections were monitored, and inspection dates are listed below. •Fire drill was conducted on 12/20/25 •Emergency drill was conducted on 12/30/25 •Playground inspection was completed on 12/31/25 •Sanitation inspection was conducted on12/4/25 and received a Superior classification. •EPR manual was updated on and was completed in 2024. Since this date an Administration change has occurred. We discussed yearly updates and timelines that should occur. •Incident logs and sheets were completed and up to date. Indoor Learning Environment: I observed children in the indoor learning environment and the following items were posted in the classrooms that were monitored: Daily schedules, activity plans, staff/child ratio worksheets, emergency numbers, emergency procedures, arrival/departure procedures, summary of law and menus. Children in the room that serves infant aged children they were observed to be participating in self-help care routines. The children in the room that serves toddler aged children were observed participating in free choice activity time and transitioning from their AM meal to free choice time. The children in the room that serves younger preschool aged children were observed to be participating in a special dance activity and free play. The children in the room that serves older preschool aged children were participating in free choice activities. Outdoor Learning Environment: The outdoor learning environments were monitored and was in compliance. Please be sure to rake the mulch when it becomes impacted and move excess mulch to fall zone areas such as swings. Staff Records: The staff-training worksheet was completed prior to the visit and the qualifying letters for staff were not verified but reviewed during today’s visit. There were eleven (11) new staff files to review today, and two (2) existing staff file. Please refer to the staff/training worksheet to review which files were monitored. Children’s Records: Staff reported there were ninety-nine (99) children enrolled in this center. There were eighty-eight (88) in attendance today. Ten (10) children’s files were reviewed today, please refer to the children’s worksheet to review which files was monitored. Medication: The facility reported there was one child with emergency medication on site, it was in compliance. Accompanying documents and permission forms were left for the facility to share with the family and complete. Nutrition: The facility was in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Meal Patterns Requirements. The menu, allergy and nutrition opt-out forms were posted and for lunch the children were having fish tacos with whole grain tortillas, bananas, with a cheese quesadilla option, with milk. Weapons: Your facility reported that they were in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Requirements regarding firearms. Transportation: The facility reported the do not provide transportation. There were seven (7) violations were observed today and four (4) were corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The previous Administrator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within seven (7) days of completion and there is no current fire inspection posted or on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In spaces seven (7) and six (6) a current activity plan was not posted. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Staff member B.H. did not have a completed emergency information form on file. .0701(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Staff member L.M's CPR training did not reflect the completion of First Aid and did not included an infant or child certification. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Staff member L.M's CPR course is not from an approved training organization and it did not including training for children or infants. .1102(d) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. The date of staff member A.P's Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma was signed after the start date and providing care. .0608(d)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. In spaces one (1) and two (2) there were duplicate diaper creams for children that did not have the correct permission dates or expiration dates. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) The violations not corrected during the visit must be corrected immediately. On or before 1/19/26 I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant PO Box 364 Matthews, NC 28105 Traci.meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 (75%). Any violation (s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was prior to today’s visit was ninety-five (95%) percent. The compliance history could be impacted after today’s visit. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Rated License: • Updated Child Care Rules are located in Section .3200 pertaining to QRIS system, otherwise known as Pathways to Stars are available for review. The process will began with these informational opportunities. •The facility’s permit date is August of 2027 and at that time I will review their license and NAEYC accreditation. Information was left with the facility pertaining to documents due at that time. •The NAEYC accreditation is valid through December of 2028, upon recertification documentation will need to be provided. Technical Assistance •When children bring in diaper creams that are the same brand as the current brand, a new topical permission slip with a correct expiration date should be filled out. While they are the same creams/ointments they should have different expiration dates. This will also provide the opportunity to complete a new permission form to review dosage instructions. •A pre-service administration form was filled out by Ms. Metcalf, and an email exchanged occurred asking their regional manager to complete the form. A reminder was offered today to complete the form by the end of the week. •Please locate Ms. Metcalf’s Playground Inspection training certificate or enroll in a current class. This is due on or before the end of February 2026. •A printed copy of approved CPR/FA providers was left with the facility. •The new administration was not able to locate the current 2025 fire inspection, they have started steps for the 2026 inspection and will follow up with me today. If there was no inspection in 2025 further action could be taken. Once the 2026 fire inspection is completed please send a copy to me within seven (7) days. •It is always a good idea to have all Administration team members trained on all compliance procedures. This offers required on going training hours as well as cross training. •Rule 15A NCAC 18A .2816 requires currently operating childcare centers to test water initially and every three years. Family childcare homes are required to test water for lead once. •Activity plans should be posted in each classroom with the current date. We discussed having the teachers or administration print them out on Fridays, and leave them in the rooms for the following week or on the main counter to be picked up. The two (2) rooms without activity plans posted were following the weekly plan. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. We jointly reviewed the visit summary and documentation of my findings and violations with you, I encouraged to ask any questions and you did not have any. If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact me at 704-594-0041 or via email at Traci.Meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your assistance during today’s visit. Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant Division of Child Development and Early Education If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE-SARDIS Facility ID: 90000532 Consultant: TRACI J. MEYER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/6/2026 Number Present: 99 Completed Date: 1/6/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 296 Time In: 08:47 AM Time Out: 01:43 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an unannounced annual compliance visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by I shared the reason for the visit. Ms. P. Metcalf accompanied me throughout the walk-through of the facility and the outdoor learning environments. Your program currently operates with a Five (5) star center license. The license was posted, with restrictions to first (1st) shift care, meets enhanced ratios and is accredited through NAEYC. Ownership: The facility owner is KinderCare Learning LLC #: 2523889 which is active an current. If any changes to the ownership need to be made, you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to this facility and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers. I monitored the following items today: supervision, staff/child ratio, staff, health, safety, and program records. All licensed spaces were observed. Program Records: We reviewed all the required records and were in compliance. Inspections: All inspections were monitored, and inspection dates are listed below. •Fire drill was conducted on 12/20/25 •Emergency drill was conducted on 12/30/25 •Playground inspection was completed on 12/31/25 •Sanitation inspection was conducted on12/4/25 and received a Superior classification. •EPR manual was updated on and was completed in 2024. Since this date an Administration change has occurred. We discussed yearly updates and timelines that should occur. •Incident logs and sheets were completed and up to date. Indoor Learning Environment: I observed children in the indoor learning environment and the following items were posted in the classrooms that were monitored: Daily schedules, activity plans, staff/child ratio worksheets, emergency numbers, emergency procedures, arrival/departure procedures, summary of law and menus. Children in the room that serves infant aged children they were observed to be participating in self-help care routines. The children in the room that serves toddler aged children were observed participating in free choice activity time and transitioning from their AM meal to free choice time. The children in the room that serves younger preschool aged children were observed to be participating in a special dance activity and free play. The children in the room that serves older preschool aged children were participating in free choice activities. Outdoor Learning Environment: The outdoor learning environments were monitored and was in compliance. Please be sure to rake the mulch when it becomes impacted and move excess mulch to fall zone areas such as swings. Staff Records: The staff-training worksheet was completed prior to the visit and the qualifying letters for staff were not verified but reviewed during today’s visit. There were eleven (11) new staff files to review today, and two (2) existing staff file. Please refer to the staff/training worksheet to review which files were monitored. Children’s Records: Staff reported there were ninety-nine (99) children enrolled in this center. There were eighty-eight (88) in attendance today. Ten (10) children’s files were reviewed today, please refer to the children’s worksheet to review which files was monitored. Medication: The facility reported there was one child with emergency medication on site, it was in compliance. Accompanying documents and permission forms were left for the facility to share with the family and complete. Nutrition: The facility was in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Meal Patterns Requirements. The menu, allergy and nutrition opt-out forms were posted and for lunch the children were having fish tacos with whole grain tortillas, bananas, with a cheese quesadilla option, with milk. Weapons: Your facility reported that they were in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Requirements regarding firearms. Transportation: The facility reported the do not provide transportation. There were seven (7) violations were observed today and four (4) were corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The previous Administrator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within seven (7) days of completion and there is no current fire inspection posted or on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In spaces seven (7) and six (6) a current activity plan was not posted. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Staff member B.H. did not have a completed emergency information form on file. .0701(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Staff member L.M's CPR training did not reflect the completion of First Aid and did not included an infant or child certification. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Staff member L.M's CPR course is not from an approved training organization and it did not including training for children or infants. .1102(d) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. The date of staff member A.P's Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma was signed after the start date and providing care. .0608(d)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. In spaces one (1) and two (2) there were duplicate diaper creams for children that did not have the correct permission dates or expiration dates. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) The violations not corrected during the visit must be corrected immediately. On or before 1/19/26 I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant PO Box 364 Matthews, NC 28105 Traci.meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 (75%). Any violation (s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was prior to today’s visit was ninety-five (95%) percent. The compliance history could be impacted after today’s visit. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Rated License: • Updated Child Care Rules are located in Section .3200 pertaining to QRIS system, otherwise known as Pathways to Stars are available for review. The process will began with these informational opportunities. •The facility’s permit date is August of 2027 and at that time I will review their license and NAEYC accreditation. Information was left with the facility pertaining to documents due at that time. •The NAEYC accreditation is valid through December of 2028, upon recertification documentation will need to be provided. Technical Assistance •When children bring in diaper creams that are the same brand as the current brand, a new topical permission slip with a correct expiration date should be filled out. While they are the same creams/ointments they should have different expiration dates. This will also provide the opportunity to complete a new permission form to review dosage instructions. •A pre-service administration form was filled out by Ms. Metcalf, and an email exchanged occurred asking their regional manager to complete the form. A reminder was offered today to complete the form by the end of the week. •Please locate Ms. Metcalf’s Playground Inspection training certificate or enroll in a current class. This is due on or before the end of February 2026. •A printed copy of approved CPR/FA providers was left with the facility. •The new administration was not able to locate the current 2025 fire inspection, they have started steps for the 2026 inspection and will follow up with me today. If there was no inspection in 2025 further action could be taken. Once the 2026 fire inspection is completed please send a copy to me within seven (7) days. •It is always a good idea to have all Administration team members trained on all compliance procedures. This offers required on going training hours as well as cross training. •Rule 15A NCAC 18A .2816 requires currently operating childcare centers to test water initially and every three years. Family childcare homes are required to test water for lead once. •Activity plans should be posted in each classroom with the current date. We discussed having the teachers or administration print them out on Fridays, and leave them in the rooms for the following week or on the main counter to be picked up. The two (2) rooms without activity plans posted were following the weekly plan. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. We jointly reviewed the visit summary and documentation of my findings and violations with you, I encouraged to ask any questions and you did not have any. If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact me at 704-594-0041 or via email at Traci.Meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your assistance during today’s visit. Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant Division of Child Development and Early Education 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: KINDERCARE-SARDIS Facility ID: 90000532 Consultant: TRACI J. MEYER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/6/2026 Number Present: 99 Completed Date: 1/6/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 296 Time In: 08:47 AM Time Out: 01:43 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an unannounced annual compliance visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by I shared the reason for the visit. Ms. P. Metcalf accompanied me throughout the walk-through of the facility and the outdoor learning environments. Your program currently operates with a Five (5) star center license. The license was posted, with restrictions to first (1st) shift care, meets enhanced ratios and is accredited through NAEYC. Ownership: The facility owner is KinderCare Learning LLC #: 2523889 which is active an current. If any changes to the ownership need to be made, you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to this facility and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers. I monitored the following items today: supervision, staff/child ratio, staff, health, safety, and program records. All licensed spaces were observed. Program Records: We reviewed all the required records and were in compliance. Inspections: All inspections were monitored, and inspection dates are listed below. •Fire drill was conducted on 12/20/25 •Emergency drill was conducted on 12/30/25 •Playground inspection was completed on 12/31/25 •Sanitation inspection was conducted on12/4/25 and received a Superior classification. •EPR manual was updated on and was completed in 2024. Since this date an Administration change has occurred. We discussed yearly updates and timelines that should occur. •Incident logs and sheets were completed and up to date. Indoor Learning Environment: I observed children in the indoor learning environment and the following items were posted in the classrooms that were monitored: Daily schedules, activity plans, staff/child ratio worksheets, emergency numbers, emergency procedures, arrival/departure procedures, summary of law and menus. Children in the room that serves infant aged children they were observed to be participating in self-help care routines. The children in the room that serves toddler aged children were observed participating in free choice activity time and transitioning from their AM meal to free choice time. The children in the room that serves younger preschool aged children were observed to be participating in a special dance activity and free play. The children in the room that serves older preschool aged children were participating in free choice activities. Outdoor Learning Environment: The outdoor learning environments were monitored and was in compliance. Please be sure to rake the mulch when it becomes impacted and move excess mulch to fall zone areas such as swings. Staff Records: The staff-training worksheet was completed prior to the visit and the qualifying letters for staff were not verified but reviewed during today’s visit. There were eleven (11) new staff files to review today, and two (2) existing staff file. Please refer to the staff/training worksheet to review which files were monitored. Children’s Records: Staff reported there were ninety-nine (99) children enrolled in this center. There were eighty-eight (88) in attendance today. Ten (10) children’s files were reviewed today, please refer to the children’s worksheet to review which files was monitored. Medication: The facility reported there was one child with emergency medication on site, it was in compliance. Accompanying documents and permission forms were left for the facility to share with the family and complete. Nutrition: The facility was in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Meal Patterns Requirements. The menu, allergy and nutrition opt-out forms were posted and for lunch the children were having fish tacos with whole grain tortillas, bananas, with a cheese quesadilla option, with milk. Weapons: Your facility reported that they were in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Requirements regarding firearms. Transportation: The facility reported the do not provide transportation. There were seven (7) violations were observed today and four (4) were corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The previous Administrator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within seven (7) days of completion and there is no current fire inspection posted or on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. In spaces seven (7) and six (6) a current activity plan was not posted. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Staff member B.H. did not have a completed emergency information form on file. .0701(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Staff member L.M's CPR training did not reflect the completion of First Aid and did not included an infant or child certification. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. Staff member L.M's CPR course is not from an approved training organization and it did not including training for children or infants. .1102(d) 1874 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with new staff prior to providing care with children and/or a signed acknowledgement with all the required information was not maintained in the staff person's file. The date of staff member A.P's Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma was signed after the start date and providing care. .0608(d)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. In spaces one (1) and two (2) there were duplicate diaper creams for children that did not have the correct permission dates or expiration dates. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) The violations not corrected during the visit must be corrected immediately. On or before 1/19/26 I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant PO Box 364 Matthews, NC 28105 Traci.meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 (75%). Any violation (s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was prior to today’s visit was ninety-five (95%) percent. The compliance history could be impacted after today’s visit. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Rated License: • Updated Child Care Rules are located in Section .3200 pertaining to QRIS system, otherwise known as Pathways to Stars are available for review. The process will began with these informational opportunities. •The facility’s permit date is August of 2027 and at that time I will review their license and NAEYC accreditation. Information was left with the facility pertaining to documents due at that time. •The NAEYC accreditation is valid through December of 2028, upon recertification documentation will need to be provided. Technical Assistance •When children bring in diaper creams that are the same brand as the current brand, a new topical permission slip with a correct expiration date should be filled out. While they are the same creams/ointments they should have different expiration dates. This will also provide the opportunity to complete a new permission form to review dosage instructions. •A pre-service administration form was filled out by Ms. Metcalf, and an email exchanged occurred asking their regional manager to complete the form. A reminder was offered today to complete the form by the end of the week. •Please locate Ms. Metcalf’s Playground Inspection training certificate or enroll in a current class. This is due on or before the end of February 2026. •A printed copy of approved CPR/FA providers was left with the facility. •The new administration was not able to locate the current 2025 fire inspection, they have started steps for the 2026 inspection and will follow up with me today. If there was no inspection in 2025 further action could be taken. Once the 2026 fire inspection is completed please send a copy to me within seven (7) days. •It is always a good idea to have all Administration team members trained on all compliance procedures. This offers required on going training hours as well as cross training. •Rule 15A NCAC 18A .2816 requires currently operating childcare centers to test water initially and every three years. Family childcare homes are required to test water for lead once. •Activity plans should be posted in each classroom with the current date. We discussed having the teachers or administration print them out on Fridays, and leave them in the rooms for the following week or on the main counter to be picked up. The two (2) rooms without activity plans posted were following the weekly plan. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. We jointly reviewed the visit summary and documentation of my findings and violations with you, I encouraged to ask any questions and you did not have any. If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact me at 704-594-0041 or via email at Traci.Meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your assistance during today’s visit. Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant Division of Child Development and Early Education 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: KINDERCARE-SARDIS Facility ID: 90000532 Consultant: TRACI J. MEYER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/8/2025 Number Present: 98 Completed Date: 1/8/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 309 Time In: 08:51 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an unannounced annual compliance visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. W. Griffin I shared the reason for the visit and she accompanied me throughout the walk-through of the facility and the outdoor learning environments. Your program currently operates with a five (5) star license. The license was posted, with restrictions to first (1st) shift care, meets enhanced ratios and enhanced space. Ownership: The facility owner is Kindercare Education LLC, with SoSID #:1209895 and is current and active. If any changes to the ownership need to be made, you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to this facility and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers. I monitored the following items today: supervision, staff/child ratio, staff, health, safety, and program records. All classrooms, auxiliary space, kitchen, and outdoor spaces were monitored. Program Records: We reviewed all the required records and were in compliance. Inspections: All inspections were monitored, and inspection dates are listed below. •Fire drill was conducted on 12/18/24. •Emergency drill was conducted on 12/12/24. •Fire inspection was completed on 5/2/24. •Playground inspection was completed on 12/18/24. •Sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/31/24 and received a Superior classification. •EPR manual was updated on 12/24/24. •Incident logs and sheets were in compliance and up to date. Indoor Learning Environment: I observed children in the indoor learning environment and the following items were posted in the classrooms that were monitored: Daily schedules, activity plans, staff/child ratio worksheets, emergency numbers, emergency procedures, arrival/departure procedures, summary of law and menus. Children in the rooms serving infants were finishing breakfast and diaper changing. Children in the rooms that serves toddler age children were participating in free choice center play. Children in the rooms that serve preschool age children were transitioning to outdoor learning, teacher led circle time, and self-directed free play activities including healthy food option activities. Outdoor Learning Environment: The outdoor learning environments were monitored and out of compliance. On the toddler playground the tot’s swings, which are over five (5) feet in height, did not have the required amount of protective surface on all sides of the swings. Staff Records: The staff-training worksheet was completed prior to the visit. There were eight (8) new staff files to review today, and two (2)existing staff file. Please refer to the staff/training worksheet to review which files were monitored. Review the TB screening and testing forms and the language requiring health care professionals signatures. Children’s Records: There are one hundred and five (105) children enrolled in this center. There were ninety-eight (98) in attendance today. Eleven (11) children’s files were reviewed today, please refer to the children’s worksheet to review which files was monitored. As a reminder, children's health assessments are to be completed fully by a healthcare professional within thirty (30) days of enrollment. Medication: All emergency and other medications were reviewed today and emergency medication was out of compliance. Nutrition: The facility was in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Meal Patterns Requirements. The allergen and menu listed were posted and for lunch the children were having ravioli, peas, apples, and milk for lunch. Weapons: Your facility reported that they were in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Requirements regarding firearms. Transportation: The facility reported they do not provide transportation. There were six (6) violations were observed today and one (1) was corrected during the visit. The violations are as follows: 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 the space that serves two year old's (2) an unlocked cabinet contained personal items which were hazardous to children. .2820(b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. A child in space that serves two year old's (2) had an expired epi-pen. .0803(12) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. Staff members P.B. and T.J. did not have forms signed by a health professional showing TB testing or questionnaire negative results. .0701(a) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Four (4) children's files reviewed showed an incomplete health assessment form within the first thirty (30( days. GS110-91(1) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. Tot swings did not have the correct depth of protective surfacing that extends two times the length of the pivot point to the bottom of the swing seat in the rear and front of the tot swings. The critical height structure is over five (5) feet in height. .0605(k)(1-4) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Staff members P.B. and E.J. did not completed the Child Maltreatment training within the required ninety (90) days of employment. .1102(g) The violations not corrected during the visit must be corrected immediately. On or before 1/21/25 I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant PO Box 364 Matthews, NC 28105 Traci.meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 (75%). Any violation (s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-two (82%) percent prior to today’s visit. The compliance history could be impacted after today’s visit. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Rated License: •Use this time for staff to update their information in the WORKS database. For more information, please go to https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/DCDEE-WORKS. Have all staff update their education including certifications. Technical Assistance •It is best practice on Staff Emergency Information to have the form completed with hospital preferences. •The smaller high chairs in the infant classrooms are not appropriate for children eating food who cannot support their bodies and or heads fully. It is recommended that at least one (1) full size, age-appropriate high chair be placed in infant rooms. •As a reminder Emergency Drills are to be completed and documented every three (3) months. •In the EPR binder, please make sure to include all consultants and contact information for easy access. •Safe Sleep policies should be posted in a visible location in rooms with safe sleep policies. •It is best practice with Shaken Baby Head Trauma policy forms are signed on or before the first day of work even when staff members do not interact with children under the age of five (5). •Resource Center (SSRC) is funded by and in partnership with the Alliance for Children and is hosted by South Piedmont Community College. The SSRC offers a variety of materials to support children ages 0-5 in their learning and development. The SSRC is a lending library of more than 5,000 resources with a delivery service. If you are interested you can reach the SSRC via email at smartstartresourcecenter@gmail.com or by phone at 704-290-5894. •Rule 15A NCAC 18A .2816 requires currently operating child care centers to test water initially and every three years. Family child care homes are required to test water for lead once. •G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. o The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php? id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. o Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. We jointly reviewed the visit summary and documentation of my findings and violations with you, I encouraged to ask any questions and you did not have any. If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact me at 704-594-0041 or via email at Traci.Meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your assistance during today’s visit. Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant Division of Child Development and Early Education 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

GS110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE-SARDIS Facility ID: 90000532 Consultant: TRACI J. MEYER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/8/2025 Number Present: 98 Completed Date: 1/8/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 309 Time In: 08:51 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an unannounced annual compliance visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. W. Griffin I shared the reason for the visit and she accompanied me throughout the walk-through of the facility and the outdoor learning environments. Your program currently operates with a five (5) star license. The license was posted, with restrictions to first (1st) shift care, meets enhanced ratios and enhanced space. Ownership: The facility owner is Kindercare Education LLC, with SoSID #:1209895 and is current and active. If any changes to the ownership need to be made, you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to this facility and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers. I monitored the following items today: supervision, staff/child ratio, staff, health, safety, and program records. All classrooms, auxiliary space, kitchen, and outdoor spaces were monitored. Program Records: We reviewed all the required records and were in compliance. Inspections: All inspections were monitored, and inspection dates are listed below. •Fire drill was conducted on 12/18/24. •Emergency drill was conducted on 12/12/24. •Fire inspection was completed on 5/2/24. •Playground inspection was completed on 12/18/24. •Sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/31/24 and received a Superior classification. •EPR manual was updated on 12/24/24. •Incident logs and sheets were in compliance and up to date. Indoor Learning Environment: I observed children in the indoor learning environment and the following items were posted in the classrooms that were monitored: Daily schedules, activity plans, staff/child ratio worksheets, emergency numbers, emergency procedures, arrival/departure procedures, summary of law and menus. Children in the rooms serving infants were finishing breakfast and diaper changing. Children in the rooms that serves toddler age children were participating in free choice center play. Children in the rooms that serve preschool age children were transitioning to outdoor learning, teacher led circle time, and self-directed free play activities including healthy food option activities. Outdoor Learning Environment: The outdoor learning environments were monitored and out of compliance. On the toddler playground the tot’s swings, which are over five (5) feet in height, did not have the required amount of protective surface on all sides of the swings. Staff Records: The staff-training worksheet was completed prior to the visit. There were eight (8) new staff files to review today, and two (2)existing staff file. Please refer to the staff/training worksheet to review which files were monitored. Review the TB screening and testing forms and the language requiring health care professionals signatures. Children’s Records: There are one hundred and five (105) children enrolled in this center. There were ninety-eight (98) in attendance today. Eleven (11) children’s files were reviewed today, please refer to the children’s worksheet to review which files was monitored. As a reminder, children's health assessments are to be completed fully by a healthcare professional within thirty (30) days of enrollment. Medication: All emergency and other medications were reviewed today and emergency medication was out of compliance. Nutrition: The facility was in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Meal Patterns Requirements. The allergen and menu listed were posted and for lunch the children were having ravioli, peas, apples, and milk for lunch. Weapons: Your facility reported that they were in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Requirements regarding firearms. Transportation: The facility reported they do not provide transportation. There were six (6) violations were observed today and one (1) was corrected during the visit. The violations are as follows: 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 the space that serves two year old's (2) an unlocked cabinet contained personal items which were hazardous to children. .2820(b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. A child in space that serves two year old's (2) had an expired epi-pen. .0803(12) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. Staff members P.B. and T.J. did not have forms signed by a health professional showing TB testing or questionnaire negative results. .0701(a) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Four (4) children's files reviewed showed an incomplete health assessment form within the first thirty (30( days. GS110-91(1) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. Tot swings did not have the correct depth of protective surfacing that extends two times the length of the pivot point to the bottom of the swing seat in the rear and front of the tot swings. The critical height structure is over five (5) feet in height. .0605(k)(1-4) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Staff members P.B. and E.J. did not completed the Child Maltreatment training within the required ninety (90) days of employment. .1102(g) The violations not corrected during the visit must be corrected immediately. On or before 1/21/25 I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant PO Box 364 Matthews, NC 28105 Traci.meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 (75%). Any violation (s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-two (82%) percent prior to today’s visit. The compliance history could be impacted after today’s visit. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Rated License: •Use this time for staff to update their information in the WORKS database. For more information, please go to https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/DCDEE-WORKS. Have all staff update their education including certifications. Technical Assistance •It is best practice on Staff Emergency Information to have the form completed with hospital preferences. •The smaller high chairs in the infant classrooms are not appropriate for children eating food who cannot support their bodies and or heads fully. It is recommended that at least one (1) full size, age-appropriate high chair be placed in infant rooms. •As a reminder Emergency Drills are to be completed and documented every three (3) months. •In the EPR binder, please make sure to include all consultants and contact information for easy access. •Safe Sleep policies should be posted in a visible location in rooms with safe sleep policies. •It is best practice with Shaken Baby Head Trauma policy forms are signed on or before the first day of work even when staff members do not interact with children under the age of five (5). •Resource Center (SSRC) is funded by and in partnership with the Alliance for Children and is hosted by South Piedmont Community College. The SSRC offers a variety of materials to support children ages 0-5 in their learning and development. The SSRC is a lending library of more than 5,000 resources with a delivery service. If you are interested you can reach the SSRC via email at smartstartresourcecenter@gmail.com or by phone at 704-290-5894. •Rule 15A NCAC 18A .2816 requires currently operating child care centers to test water initially and every three years. Family child care homes are required to test water for lead once. •G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. o The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php? id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. o Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. We jointly reviewed the visit summary and documentation of my findings and violations with you, I encouraged to ask any questions and you did not have any. If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact me at 704-594-0041 or via email at Traci.Meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your assistance during today’s visit. Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant Division of Child Development and Early Education 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: KINDERCARE-SARDIS Facility ID: 90000532 Consultant: TRACI J. MEYER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/8/2025 Number Present: 98 Completed Date: 1/8/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 309 Time In: 08:51 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an unannounced annual compliance visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. W. Griffin I shared the reason for the visit and she accompanied me throughout the walk-through of the facility and the outdoor learning environments. Your program currently operates with a five (5) star license. The license was posted, with restrictions to first (1st) shift care, meets enhanced ratios and enhanced space. Ownership: The facility owner is Kindercare Education LLC, with SoSID #:1209895 and is current and active. If any changes to the ownership need to be made, you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to this facility and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers. I monitored the following items today: supervision, staff/child ratio, staff, health, safety, and program records. All classrooms, auxiliary space, kitchen, and outdoor spaces were monitored. Program Records: We reviewed all the required records and were in compliance. Inspections: All inspections were monitored, and inspection dates are listed below. •Fire drill was conducted on 12/18/24. •Emergency drill was conducted on 12/12/24. •Fire inspection was completed on 5/2/24. •Playground inspection was completed on 12/18/24. •Sanitation inspection was conducted on 10/31/24 and received a Superior classification. •EPR manual was updated on 12/24/24. •Incident logs and sheets were in compliance and up to date. Indoor Learning Environment: I observed children in the indoor learning environment and the following items were posted in the classrooms that were monitored: Daily schedules, activity plans, staff/child ratio worksheets, emergency numbers, emergency procedures, arrival/departure procedures, summary of law and menus. Children in the rooms serving infants were finishing breakfast and diaper changing. Children in the rooms that serves toddler age children were participating in free choice center play. Children in the rooms that serve preschool age children were transitioning to outdoor learning, teacher led circle time, and self-directed free play activities including healthy food option activities. Outdoor Learning Environment: The outdoor learning environments were monitored and out of compliance. On the toddler playground the tot’s swings, which are over five (5) feet in height, did not have the required amount of protective surface on all sides of the swings. Staff Records: The staff-training worksheet was completed prior to the visit. There were eight (8) new staff files to review today, and two (2)existing staff file. Please refer to the staff/training worksheet to review which files were monitored. Review the TB screening and testing forms and the language requiring health care professionals signatures. Children’s Records: There are one hundred and five (105) children enrolled in this center. There were ninety-eight (98) in attendance today. Eleven (11) children’s files were reviewed today, please refer to the children’s worksheet to review which files was monitored. As a reminder, children's health assessments are to be completed fully by a healthcare professional within thirty (30) days of enrollment. Medication: All emergency and other medications were reviewed today and emergency medication was out of compliance. Nutrition: The facility was in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Meal Patterns Requirements. The allergen and menu listed were posted and for lunch the children were having ravioli, peas, apples, and milk for lunch. Weapons: Your facility reported that they were in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Requirements regarding firearms. Transportation: The facility reported they do not provide transportation. There were six (6) violations were observed today and one (1) was corrected during the visit. The violations are as follows: 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 the space that serves two year old's (2) an unlocked cabinet contained personal items which were hazardous to children. .2820(b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. A child in space that serves two year old's (2) had an expired epi-pen. .0803(12) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. Staff members P.B. and T.J. did not have forms signed by a health professional showing TB testing or questionnaire negative results. .0701(a) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Four (4) children's files reviewed showed an incomplete health assessment form within the first thirty (30( days. GS110-91(1) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. Tot swings did not have the correct depth of protective surfacing that extends two times the length of the pivot point to the bottom of the swing seat in the rear and front of the tot swings. The critical height structure is over five (5) feet in height. .0605(k)(1-4) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. Staff members P.B. and E.J. did not completed the Child Maltreatment training within the required ninety (90) days of employment. .1102(g) The violations not corrected during the visit must be corrected immediately. On or before 1/21/25 I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant PO Box 364 Matthews, NC 28105 Traci.meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 (75%). Any violation (s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty-two (82%) percent prior to today’s visit. The compliance history could be impacted after today’s visit. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Rated License: •Use this time for staff to update their information in the WORKS database. For more information, please go to https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/DCDEE-WORKS. Have all staff update their education including certifications. Technical Assistance •It is best practice on Staff Emergency Information to have the form completed with hospital preferences. •The smaller high chairs in the infant classrooms are not appropriate for children eating food who cannot support their bodies and or heads fully. It is recommended that at least one (1) full size, age-appropriate high chair be placed in infant rooms. •As a reminder Emergency Drills are to be completed and documented every three (3) months. •In the EPR binder, please make sure to include all consultants and contact information for easy access. •Safe Sleep policies should be posted in a visible location in rooms with safe sleep policies. •It is best practice with Shaken Baby Head Trauma policy forms are signed on or before the first day of work even when staff members do not interact with children under the age of five (5). •Resource Center (SSRC) is funded by and in partnership with the Alliance for Children and is hosted by South Piedmont Community College. The SSRC offers a variety of materials to support children ages 0-5 in their learning and development. The SSRC is a lending library of more than 5,000 resources with a delivery service. If you are interested you can reach the SSRC via email at smartstartresourcecenter@gmail.com or by phone at 704-290-5894. •Rule 15A NCAC 18A .2816 requires currently operating child care centers to test water initially and every three years. Family child care homes are required to test water for lead once. •G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r) child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. o The process of notifying the Division has changed and is now captured in ABCMS. This change has been in effect since February 2024. Effective immediately, you will need to obtain a Business NCID and complete Provider Portal training in Moodle at https://www.dcdee.moodle.nc.gov/course/view.php? id=119. No action is needed on your part if you have completed the reference training and are currently using the ABCMS Provider Portal to update information regarding new hires or residents. o Once the training has been completed and access has been given, you must verify your facility roster to ensure current staff are noted on the roster. This information should be updated in ABCMS in an ongoing basis as staff members are hired and when their employment is terminated. This satisfies the requirement to notify the Division of new child care providers working who were hired or moved into the child care facility within five business days. The compliance of this rule will be monitored during your next visit. Please note, the hard copy of the Change of Information form will no longer be needed or accepted. Should you need assistance please contact the Criminal Background Check Unit at (919) 814-8401 and someone will assist you. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. We jointly reviewed the visit summary and documentation of my findings and violations with you, I encouraged to ask any questions and you did not have any. If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact me at 704-594-0041 or via email at Traci.Meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your assistance during today’s visit. Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant Division of Child Development and Early Education 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: KINDERCARE-SARDIS Facility ID: 90000532 Consultant: TRACI J. MEYER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/10/2024 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 1/10/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an unannounced annual compliance visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. Wendy Griffin, Director. I shared the reason for the visit and Ms. Griffin accompanied me throughout the walk-through of the facility and the outdoor learning environments. Your program currently operates with a four (4) star license issued 7/22/22. The license was posted, with restrictions to 1st shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and meets enhanced ratios minus one in each group. Ownership: The facility owner is Kindercare Education LLC If any changes to the ownership need to be made, you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to this facility and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers. I monitored the following items today: supervision, staff/child ratio, staff, health, safety, and program records. All classrooms, kitchen, inside learning classrooms and outside spaces. Program Records: We reviewed all the required records and were in compliance. Inspections: All inspections were monitored, and inspection dates are listed below. •Fire drill was conducted on 1/2/2024. •Emergency drill was conducted on 10/17/2023. •Fire inspection was completed on 6/1/2023. •Playground inspection was completed on 1/2/2024. •Sanitation inspection was conducted on 8/7/2023 and received a Superior classification. •The EPR was reviewed and updated on 1/3/2024. Indoor Learning Environment: I observed children in the indoor learning environment and the following items were posted in the classrooms that were monitored: Daily schedules, activity plans, staff/child ratio worksheets, emergency numbers, emergency procedures, arrival/departure procedures, summary of law and menu. In the classroom serving infant aged children, the two rooms were combined and all infants were happy and engaged in eating, playing or being cared for by the teachers. In the classrooms serving toddlers, the children were engaged in circle story time. In space #4 that serves toddlers, the opportunities to learn through play is limited due to the lack of toys and supplies in the classroom. In the classroom serving preschool aged children, the rooms were colorful and full of supplies and toys allowing all children to choose from numerous learning opportunities. The children in these rooms were participating in a teacher directed circle time, free choice play and centers. Please keep in mind in the arts/creative centers, to provide purposeful supplies that are accessible children. For example, if there are scissors, there should be something to cut, if there is paint, there should be something to paint. Outdoor Learning Environment: The outdoor learning environments were monitored and in compliance, there was an area on the toddler playground where mulch was spread but not needed. Reach out to maintenance and have them move the mulch to a more suitable location such as under the swings. Please continue to rake the mulch under critical height structures and swings to stop compaction and maintain compliance. Staff Records: The staff-training worksheet was completed prior to the visit. There was one (1) new staff files to review today, and two (2) existing staff file. Please refer to the staff/training worksheet to review which files were monitored. The files were in compliance and well organized. Children’s Records: There are ninety four (94) children enrolled in this center. There were sixty-six (66) in attendance today. Nine (9) children’s files were reviewed today, please refer to the children’s worksheet to review which files was monitored. Three of the children’s files did not have an annual update for calendar year 2023, showing that the files were reviewed and updated annually. Medication: All emergency and other medications were reviewed today and one epi pen was out of compliance. Nutrition: The facility was in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Meal Patterns Requirements. The children had pancakes and milk for breakfast. Strawberries were also listed on the menu but not served. This was corrected at the beginning of my visit. Weapons: Your facility reported that they were in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Requirements regarding firearms. Transportation: Kindercare-Sardis does not provide transportation at this time. Five (5) violations were observed today and one (1) was corrected during the visit. The violations are as follows: 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 listed a fruit for breakfast and it was not served. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 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 between Spaces five (5) and six (6) there was potting soil with multiple warnings accessible to children. .2820(b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. An epi-pen in Space Eight (8) was expired. .0803(12) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Four (4) children's forms were not updated annually or when information changed. .0801(a)(1-7) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. In Space Three (3) there was one (1) diaper cream that did not specify the amount to use on the children. In Space three (3) there were four (1) diaper creams that did not specify the amount to use on children. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) The violations not corrected during the visit must be corrected immediately. On or before 01/24/2024, 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 may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant PO Box 364 Matthews, NC 28105 or Traci.Meyer@dhhs.nc.gov 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 (75%). Any violation (s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator and before the visit the compliance was eighty eight percent (88%). The compliance history could be impacted after today’s visit. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Rated License: Your facility’s rated license cohort is cohort number three (3). The preparation year of the assessment is July 1st, 2025 to June 30th, 2026 and the assessment year is July 1st, 2026 to June 30th, 2027. Listed below are some items to do to get ready for the upcoming preparation and assessment years. •Have all staff update their information in the WORKS database. For more information, please go to https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/DCDEE-WORKS. Have all teachers and staff print out their WORKS letter, so you can see if their education is updated. If any teachers have a BSAC certificate have them upload the certificate into their account. •Access the resources for your upcoming assessment at www.ncrlap.org. •Review the materials lists for each classroom. This list is to be used as a resource reminding you of some of the required items to promote quality in programming. •Contact CCRI and The Alliance for Children to have them assist you in providing guidance in preparation for the scales. Technical Assistance: •Make sure the janitorial staff is cleaning the bathrooms the children use daily. •When a food substitution is made or a food is left off the menu, make sure to update any posted menus with the accurate information. •Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest updates. •The Smart Start Resource Center (SSRC) is funded by and in partnership with the Alliance for Children and is hosted by South Piedmont Community College. The SSRC offers a variety of materials to support children ages 0-5 in their learning and development. The SSRC is a lending library of more than 5,000 resources with a delivery service. If you are interested you can reach the SSRC via email at smartstartresourcecenter@gmail.com or by phone at 704-290-5894. This would be a good resource for Space #4 to add more interactive supplies and learning toys that are age appropriate. •Continue to watch the level of mulch on both playgrounds, making sure that they stay in compliance with critical height structures and swings. •Regarding weather related issues, if you have any damage or concerns, please reach out to your Childcare Consultant for guidance. •Continue to move older children and graduates to the room that serves four (4) and five (5) year old's to help with ratios and age-appropriate development for these students. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. We jointly reviewed the visit summary and documentation of my findings and violations with you, I encouraged to ask any questions and you did not have any. If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact me at 704-594-0041 or via email at Traci.Meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your assistance during today’s visit. Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant Division of Child Development and Early Education 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: KINDERCARE-SARDIS Facility ID: 90000532 Consultant: TRACI J. MEYER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/10/2024 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 1/10/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 195 Time In: 08:45 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an unannounced annual compliance visit. Upon arrival I was greeted by Ms. Wendy Griffin, Director. I shared the reason for the visit and Ms. Griffin accompanied me throughout the walk-through of the facility and the outdoor learning environments. Your program currently operates with a four (4) star license issued 7/22/22. The license was posted, with restrictions to 1st shift, meets enhanced ratios, meets enhanced space, and meets enhanced ratios minus one in each group. Ownership: The facility owner is Kindercare Education LLC If any changes to the ownership need to be made, you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. I used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable childcare requirements pertinent to this facility and the Annual Compliance Monitoring Checklist for Child Care Centers. I monitored the following items today: supervision, staff/child ratio, staff, health, safety, and program records. All classrooms, kitchen, inside learning classrooms and outside spaces. Program Records: We reviewed all the required records and were in compliance. Inspections: All inspections were monitored, and inspection dates are listed below. •Fire drill was conducted on 1/2/2024. •Emergency drill was conducted on 10/17/2023. •Fire inspection was completed on 6/1/2023. •Playground inspection was completed on 1/2/2024. •Sanitation inspection was conducted on 8/7/2023 and received a Superior classification. •The EPR was reviewed and updated on 1/3/2024. Indoor Learning Environment: I observed children in the indoor learning environment and the following items were posted in the classrooms that were monitored: Daily schedules, activity plans, staff/child ratio worksheets, emergency numbers, emergency procedures, arrival/departure procedures, summary of law and menu. In the classroom serving infant aged children, the two rooms were combined and all infants were happy and engaged in eating, playing or being cared for by the teachers. In the classrooms serving toddlers, the children were engaged in circle story time. In space #4 that serves toddlers, the opportunities to learn through play is limited due to the lack of toys and supplies in the classroom. In the classroom serving preschool aged children, the rooms were colorful and full of supplies and toys allowing all children to choose from numerous learning opportunities. The children in these rooms were participating in a teacher directed circle time, free choice play and centers. Please keep in mind in the arts/creative centers, to provide purposeful supplies that are accessible children. For example, if there are scissors, there should be something to cut, if there is paint, there should be something to paint. Outdoor Learning Environment: The outdoor learning environments were monitored and in compliance, there was an area on the toddler playground where mulch was spread but not needed. Reach out to maintenance and have them move the mulch to a more suitable location such as under the swings. Please continue to rake the mulch under critical height structures and swings to stop compaction and maintain compliance. Staff Records: The staff-training worksheet was completed prior to the visit. There was one (1) new staff files to review today, and two (2) existing staff file. Please refer to the staff/training worksheet to review which files were monitored. The files were in compliance and well organized. Children’s Records: There are ninety four (94) children enrolled in this center. There were sixty-six (66) in attendance today. Nine (9) children’s files were reviewed today, please refer to the children’s worksheet to review which files was monitored. Three of the children’s files did not have an annual update for calendar year 2023, showing that the files were reviewed and updated annually. Medication: All emergency and other medications were reviewed today and one epi pen was out of compliance. Nutrition: The facility was in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Meal Patterns Requirements. The children had pancakes and milk for breakfast. Strawberries were also listed on the menu but not served. This was corrected at the beginning of my visit. Weapons: Your facility reported that they were in compliance during today’s visit with Child Care Requirements regarding firearms. Transportation: Kindercare-Sardis does not provide transportation at this time. Five (5) violations were observed today and one (1) was corrected during the visit. The violations are as follows: 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 listed a fruit for breakfast and it was not served. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 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 between Spaces five (5) and six (6) there was potting soil with multiple warnings accessible to children. .2820(b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. An epi-pen in Space Eight (8) was expired. .0803(12) 1329 Application for enrollment did not include all required information. Four (4) children's forms were not updated annually or when information changed. .0801(a)(1-7) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. In Space Three (3) there was one (1) diaper cream that did not specify the amount to use on the children. In Space three (3) there were four (1) diaper creams that did not specify the amount to use on children. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) The violations not corrected during the visit must be corrected immediately. On or before 01/24/2024, 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 may be completed. Mail or email the information to: Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant PO Box 364 Matthews, NC 28105 or Traci.Meyer@dhhs.nc.gov 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 (75%). Any violation (s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator and before the visit the compliance was eighty eight percent (88%). The compliance history could be impacted after today’s visit. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. Rated License: Your facility’s rated license cohort is cohort number three (3). The preparation year of the assessment is July 1st, 2025 to June 30th, 2026 and the assessment year is July 1st, 2026 to June 30th, 2027. Listed below are some items to do to get ready for the upcoming preparation and assessment years. •Have all staff update their information in the WORKS database. For more information, please go to https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/DCDEE-WORKS. Have all teachers and staff print out their WORKS letter, so you can see if their education is updated. If any teachers have a BSAC certificate have them upload the certificate into their account. •Access the resources for your upcoming assessment at www.ncrlap.org. •Review the materials lists for each classroom. This list is to be used as a resource reminding you of some of the required items to promote quality in programming. •Contact CCRI and The Alliance for Children to have them assist you in providing guidance in preparation for the scales. Technical Assistance: •Make sure the janitorial staff is cleaning the bathrooms the children use daily. •When a food substitution is made or a food is left off the menu, make sure to update any posted menus with the accurate information. •Please continue to visit DCDEE’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ to get the latest updates. •The Smart Start Resource Center (SSRC) is funded by and in partnership with the Alliance for Children and is hosted by South Piedmont Community College. The SSRC offers a variety of materials to support children ages 0-5 in their learning and development. The SSRC is a lending library of more than 5,000 resources with a delivery service. If you are interested you can reach the SSRC via email at smartstartresourcecenter@gmail.com or by phone at 704-290-5894. This would be a good resource for Space #4 to add more interactive supplies and learning toys that are age appropriate. •Continue to watch the level of mulch on both playgrounds, making sure that they stay in compliance with critical height structures and swings. •Regarding weather related issues, if you have any damage or concerns, please reach out to your Childcare Consultant for guidance. •Continue to move older children and graduates to the room that serves four (4) and five (5) year old's to help with ratios and age-appropriate development for these students. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. We jointly reviewed the visit summary and documentation of my findings and violations with you, I encouraged to ask any questions and you did not have any. If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact me at 704-594-0041 or via email at Traci.Meyer@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your assistance during today’s visit. Traci Meyer Carpenter Child Care Consultant Division of Child Development and Early Education If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: KINDERCARE-SARDIS Facility ID: 90000532 Consultant: KATHY WILLIS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/7/2023 Number Present: 69 Completed Date: 9/7/2023 Age: From 0 To 12 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 11:30 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my Routine unannounced visit was to monitor for compliance with applicable childcare requirements. Upon arrival the Ms. Griffin, Administrator assisted me during today’s visit. Traci Meyer Carpenter, Child Care Consultant, assisted me with today’s visit. We used the Child Care Center Item Number Listing (DCD 0357) as a basic monitoring tool to assess compliance with all applicable child care requirements pertinent to this visit. Permit information-the program operates with a Four- Star license, issued July 8, 2022. The center has four (4) points for education, six (6) points for program standards and one (1) quality point. License restriction include Daytime care only; Meets enhanced ratios and Meets enhanced space. Ownership: Kindercare Education LLC status on the NC Secretary of State website was listed as current/active as of 06/24/2011. If any changes to the corporation need to be made, you must notify your consultant at least thirty (30) days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location or inherited. The following items were monitored today: Supervision, Capacity, Staff-Child Ratios, Emergency Medical Plan, Storage and Administration of Medication, Storage of Hazardous materials, General Safety, Discipline, Adequate and Approved Space, Program Records, License Posted and Permit Restrictions. Indoor learning Environment: A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor areas were monitored. We observed children participating in floor play, tummy time, diaper changing procedures, hand washing procedures, transition time, outdoor gross motor play, free play in classroom center areas and circle time. We discussed Space #3 and the classroom set up and materials. Although this room met minimal requirements the program quality was not consistent with the most of other classrooms observed today. I would encourage you to consider working with the Infant and Toddler Specialist in this room in order to build a skilled, informed, and dynamic birth-to-three teaching team. This program provides individualized support based on their unique needs, experiences, and goals within this classroom. They also provide practice-Based Coaching. We discussed interaction of staff in Spaces 1 & 2 and the need to obtain training regarding interaction with children, included in the new Infant and Toddler Teacher orientation that can be found on Moodle. We also discussed for the Administration to please reach out to CCRI to enroll new staff in their “New Employee Orientation” training series. The training series consists of three (3) courses called: - A+ Supervision - Keep it Clean - Positive Guidance Help with Challenging Behaviors These are all free to staff who have been employed for less than one year and would assist the facility in maintaining compliance with skills learned that would support appropriate interactions, supervision, sanitation are Program Records: Postings were reviewed as well as attendance and arrival and departure, license posted, and permit restrictions being met. All items were in compliance. Access information at https://www.childcarerrnc.org/special-projects/b3qi/ to learn more. Outdoor Learning Environment was discussed, and the facility use all playground areas. There is equipment and materials that was age appropriate, and the children were engaged in gross motor play, language skills and creative dramatics. There were some items observed on the playgrounds that was broken and these were removed during today’s visit. We discussed the grass along the fence areas and in the bike path area. Right now the grass is not a concern but if it continues to grow could harbor “critters” that may not be friendly. Staff Records: There were six (6) new staff files reviewed. The staff qualifying letters and specialized training were verified during today’s visit. The following violations were observed today with one being corrected during today's visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 491 Caregiver did not respond at the earliest opportunity to an infant or toddler’s physical and emotional needs. In Space 1 where the children who were infants were located there were three (3) children in their cribs crying at the start of the facility observation and then again later at the end of the facility observation. There were three (3) staff in the classroom and ten (10) infant children, but no staff were attending to the needs of the children who were crying. One (1) staff member was feeding a child, the other was completing paperwork and the last was sitting on the floor. The children in the crib's needs were not responded to at the earliest opportunity as only one (1) of the two (2) staff members were busy caring for the children which would have delayed the response. .0511(b)(1) 492 Caregiver did not recognize special difficulties of infants and toddler separations. In space #2 where children ages one years old were located the caregiver was providing care for six (6) children. Two (2) of the six (6) children were crying and the caregiver was completing paperwork on the floor and not responding to or interacting with the children prior to, as observed through the window and during the observation of the classroom. Then upon final observation of the facility later one (1) child was still crying, and the caregiver was sitting in a chair with a blanket over her legs and was not interacting or consoling the child. The caregiver reported that one child had been absent and had just returned and the other child was new. Although she acknowledged the issues, she did not respond in a way that she provided evidence that she recognized the special difficulties. .0511(b)(2) 604 Lavatories were not kept clean, in good repair and kept free of storage. In the bathrooms between Spaces # 3 & 4 and Spaces # 7 & 8 the sinks caulking was in disrepair, worn and discolored. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(a) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. On the playground for the younger children there were ride on cars where the walkie-talkie holder that was broken in half and not in good repair. On the same playground there was a Little Tykes Mini Kitchen with a door broken in half. On the playground for the older children there was a Fisher Price basketball hoop that was missing pieces and couldn't be used. This was corrected during the visit. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 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 #7 there was cleaning solution pads left in an unlocked cabinet underneath the sink accessible to children in the room. .2820(b) 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. In space #2 where children ages one years old were located the caregiver was providing care for six (6) children. Two (2) of the six (6) children were crying and the caregiver was completing paperwork on the floor and not responding to or interacting with the children prior to, as observed through the window and during the observation of the classroom. Then upon final observation of the facility later one (1) child was still crying, and the caregiver was sitting in a chair with a blanket over her legs and was not interacting or consoling the child. The caregiver reported that one child had been absent and had just returned and the other child was new. Based on her lack of response and attentiveness to the child's emotional state there was no nurturing response appropriate to a child being new in a facility nor a child returning from an extended absence. G.S. 110-91(10) 1830 Potential biocontaminants were not stored properly (locked storage, removed from premises, inaccessible to children, or covered plastic lined receptacle). In Space #3 there was soiled pants on a shelf wrapped in a plastic bag that had a strong smell. The staff stated that they were pants of a child who was not longer enrolled and had been gone for more than two weeks. .0604(v) 1867 The depth of the loose surfacing was not based on critical height of the equipment. Under the three swings on the Preschool Playground the mulch was kicked out leaving the loose surfacing/protective cushioning less than the required 6 inches. .0605(k)(1-4) All violations must be corrected immediately, and correction must be submitted to me as soon as possible but no later September 21, 2023. Failure to maintain compliance with all requirements may result in an Administrative Action against the license, which could include civil penalties. Repeated violations may significantly affect your compliance history. An unannounced visit may be conducted to verify compliance with child care requirements. Rated License: Your facility falls into Cohort 3 with the prep year 06/27/2025 to 06/30/2026 - and your assessment year beings 07/01/2026. The preparation year, and the time before the preparation year is an opportunity to focus on your Star Rated License and consider strategies to help maintain or increase your star rating. Some preparation year ideas to consider related specifically to the program standards component of the Star Rated License are: 1. First and foremost, approach this as a learning process. There will always be things to work on, but make sure to acknowledge areas of strength along the way, communicate with others, ask questions, and be open to new or different ideas. 2. Always remember that you know the children and families and the program’s culture, current situations, priorities, and challenges. When considering the requirements, use your own expertise when deciding how best to focus time and energy. Administrators Review Requirements •Be familiar with the NC Child Care Law and Rules that apply to your program. •Review the ECERS-R, ITERS-R, SACERS-U, and/or FCCERS-R for your setting. Gather Resources •Look for assessment related resources at ncrlap.org •Have copies of the rating scales applicable to the age groups your program serves. •Seek out webinars and/or in-person trainings related to topics of interest. •Check out various provider resources and download NC's Foundations for Early Learning and Development at DCDEE's website: ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov Create a Plan of Action •Start a self-study process to become more familiar with the ERS or priority areas relevant to your program. •Brainstorm and collaborate with others about questions or current challenges you would like to address. Reach Out •Share your ideas and needs with others that can help with resources of various types •Get your questions answered by contacting your local CCR&R or Partnership for Children, NCRLAP, or your program's DCDEE consultant depending on the topic areas. •Talk with your consultant about completing a prep year ERS assessment to get more information about current situations at your program. Use staff meetings to discuss topics related to the Environment Rating Scales or other quality initiatives. For example, if transitions are challenging, ask everyone to share what strategies help, or which transitions take longer and why? Support and encourage staff during a self-study process. Connect them with resources at ncrlap.org including contact hour earning webinars and Thinking More worksheets for every rating scale. Engage to brainstorm, offer support and clarification, and set goals to help everyone become more familiar and confident with the assessment process. Allocate resources so they can focus on self-study as part of the workday. Resources such as Child Care Resource and Referral and Smart Start can be valuable when preparing for the ERS. “All about ECERS-R”, “All about ITERS-R” and the NCRLAP website (www.ncrlap.org) can also be helpful as staff prepare for the ERS. On the NCRLAP website, there are training videos, sample questions and clarifying information regarding the assessments you may find helpful. 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, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with the Administrative Team. Contact me at Kathy Twitty Willis, Child Care Consultant Regulatory Services Section, (704) 594-0148 or kathy.willis@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: KINDERCARE-SARDIS Facility ID: 90000532 Consultant: AMY SCHNURR Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0723-020A Visit Date: 7/10/2023 Number Present: 61 Completed Date: 7/10/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 01:00 PM Time Out: 03:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Wendy Griffin, Administrator, accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. Griffin and two additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. The following violations were confirmed during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. On July 6, 2023, a child, age four, was left unsupervised on the playground for approximately three minutes. .1801(a)(1-5) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. On July 6, 2023, a child, age four, was left alone on the facility's playground. A stranger located the child, picked up the child from inside of the fence-enclosed playground and took the child to the front door of the facility and released the child to a facility staff member. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Violations must be corrected immediately. Within one week, by Monday, July 17, 2023, you must submit documentation of the corrections you made and your plan to maintain compliance with the identified child care requirements to me at Amy Schnurr, Investigations Consultant, Phone: 980-423-0978, FAX: 919-715-1013, amy.schnurr@dhhs.nc.gov. You may contact me at Amy Schnurr, Investigator, 980-423-0978, amy.schnurr@dhhs.nc.gov or Veronica Grant, Supervisor, veronica.grant@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