Little Explorers Academy

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/10/2026 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 6/10/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable childcare requirements for a routine unannounced compliance visit. Ms. T. Roberts (Lead Teacher) and Mrs. B. Winters assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a Four-star license, issued 8-7-19. A full walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in the indoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, reading, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. The following items were observed in compliance during today's visit: license posted, and restrictions followed, summary of law posted, attendance taken daily, emergency medical care plan posted, activity plans posted, daily schedule posted, menus posted, allergies posted, storage of hazardous materials and substances, CPR/First Aid and SIDS training completed as required, medications and forms and Criminal Record Checks completed as required. Sanitation inspection remains current as of today (5/27/26). Fire inspection remains current as of today (4/23/26). Playground inspection 6/4/26. Emergency drill log: Shelter and lock down drills 4/27/26. Fire drill: 5/26/226. Two violations were cited during today’s visit; the provider asked questions about the topics below to ensure the facility stays in compliance. Once was corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 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Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Expired sunscreen was not discarded within 72 hours of expiration and after authorization had expired. .0803(12) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. Some children's forms did not have the name of the sunscreen or the topical ointment listed on the form, and there wasn't an form provided for some of the sunscreen's. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 6-24-26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Also, please provide information regarding how the facility will maintain compliance in the future. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov The emailed compliance letter must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Falsification: If child care operators state in the compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, this will be considered falsification of information, and an Administrative Action may be issued. If you cannot meet the requirements by the date, you must contact me with a proposed timeline of the corrections in a timely manner. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. Consultation and Technical Assistance The provider and I discussed ensuring signatures of teachers and parents are on feeding schedules, staff records and files and the importance of having staff having certificates in their file as well, health and safety training and recognizing and responding are to be redone every 5 years. Technical Assistance was given on outlet covers, keys in lock are still considered unlocked, broken toys with sharp edges, rust, expired medications and expired medication forms and expired sunscreen/ topical ointment. SECTION .0600 - SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. (d) Staff of the center shall immediately remove all equipment and furnishings that do not meet the requirements of Paragraphs (b) and (c) of this Rule from the premises or make the equipment or furnishings inaccessible to the children. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (1) No prescription or over-the-counter medication and no topical, non-medical ointment, repellent, lotion, cream, fluoridated toothpaste, or powder shall be administered to any child: (a) without written authorization from the child's parent; (b) without written instructions from the child's parent, physician or other health professional; (c) in any manner not authorized by the child's parent, physician or other health professional; (d) after its expiration date; (e) for non-medical reasons, such as to induce sleep; or (f) with a known allergy to the medication. (12)Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. A parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to 12 months to apply over-the-counter, topical ointments, topical teething ointment or gel, insect repellents, lotions, creams, fluoridated toothpaste, and powders, such as sunscreen, diapering creams, baby lotion, and baby powder, to a child, when needed. The authorization shall be in writing and shall contain: (a) the child's name; (b) the names of the authorized ointments, repellents, lotions, creams, fluoridated toothpaste, and powders; (c) the criteria for the administration of the ointments, repellents, lotions, creams, fluoridated toothpaste, and powders; (d) the manner in which the ointments, repellents, lotions, creams, fluoridated toothpaste, and powders shall be applied; (e) the signature of the parent; (f) the date the authorization was signed by the parent; and (g) the length of time the authorization is valid, if less than 12 months. Have all staff update WORKS accounts to reflect all currently completed coursework (DCDEE-WORKS) Review staff and training sheet for dates that staff need to have additional training done. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle”. These trainings are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Child care programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@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 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/10/2026 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 6/10/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable childcare requirements for a routine unannounced compliance visit. Ms. T. Roberts (Lead Teacher) and Mrs. B. Winters assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a Four-star license, issued 8-7-19. A full walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in the indoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, reading, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. The following items were observed in compliance during today's visit: license posted, and restrictions followed, summary of law posted, attendance taken daily, emergency medical care plan posted, activity plans posted, daily schedule posted, menus posted, allergies posted, storage of hazardous materials and substances, CPR/First Aid and SIDS training completed as required, medications and forms and Criminal Record Checks completed as required. Sanitation inspection remains current as of today (5/27/26). Fire inspection remains current as of today (4/23/26). Playground inspection 6/4/26. Emergency drill log: Shelter and lock down drills 4/27/26. Fire drill: 5/26/226. Two violations were cited during today’s visit; the provider asked questions about the topics below to ensure the facility stays in compliance. Once was corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 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. Expired sunscreen was not discarded within 72 hours of expiration and after authorization had expired. .0803(12) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. Some children's forms did not have the name of the sunscreen or the topical ointment listed on the form, and there wasn't an form provided for some of the sunscreen's. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 6-24-26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Also, please provide information regarding how the facility will maintain compliance in the future. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov The emailed compliance letter must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Falsification: If child care operators state in the compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, this will be considered falsification of information, and an Administrative Action may be issued. If you cannot meet the requirements by the date, you must contact me with a proposed timeline of the corrections in a timely manner. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. Consultation and Technical Assistance The provider and I discussed ensuring signatures of teachers and parents are on feeding schedules, staff records and files and the importance of having staff having certificates in their file as well, health and safety training and recognizing and responding are to be redone every 5 years. Technical Assistance was given on outlet covers, keys in lock are still considered unlocked, broken toys with sharp edges, rust, expired medications and expired medication forms and expired sunscreen/ topical ointment. SECTION .0600 - SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. (d) Staff of the center shall immediately remove all equipment and furnishings that do not meet the requirements of Paragraphs (b) and (c) of this Rule from the premises or make the equipment or furnishings inaccessible to the children. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (1) No prescription or over-the-counter medication and no topical, non-medical ointment, repellent, lotion, cream, fluoridated toothpaste, or powder shall be administered to any child: (a) without written authorization from the child's parent; (b) without written instructions from the child's parent, physician or other health professional; (c) in any manner not authorized by the child's parent, physician or other health professional; (d) after its expiration date; (e) for non-medical reasons, such as to induce sleep; or (f) with a known allergy to the medication. (12)Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. A parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to 12 months to apply over-the-counter, topical ointments, topical teething ointment or gel, insect repellents, lotions, creams, fluoridated toothpaste, and powders, such as sunscreen, diapering creams, baby lotion, and baby powder, to a child, when needed. The authorization shall be in writing and shall contain: (a) the child's name; (b) the names of the authorized ointments, repellents, lotions, creams, fluoridated toothpaste, and powders; (c) the criteria for the administration of the ointments, repellents, lotions, creams, fluoridated toothpaste, and powders; (d) the manner in which the ointments, repellents, lotions, creams, fluoridated toothpaste, and powders shall be applied; (e) the signature of the parent; (f) the date the authorization was signed by the parent; and (g) the length of time the authorization is valid, if less than 12 months. Have all staff update WORKS accounts to reflect all currently completed coursework (DCDEE-WORKS) Review staff and training sheet for dates that staff need to have additional training done. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle”. These trainings are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Child care programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/10/2026 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 6/10/2026 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable childcare requirements for a routine unannounced compliance visit. Ms. T. Roberts (Lead Teacher) and Mrs. B. Winters assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a Four-star license, issued 8-7-19. A full walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in the indoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, reading, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. The following items were observed in compliance during today's visit: license posted, and restrictions followed, summary of law posted, attendance taken daily, emergency medical care plan posted, activity plans posted, daily schedule posted, menus posted, allergies posted, storage of hazardous materials and substances, CPR/First Aid and SIDS training completed as required, medications and forms and Criminal Record Checks completed as required. Sanitation inspection remains current as of today (5/27/26). Fire inspection remains current as of today (4/23/26). Playground inspection 6/4/26. Emergency drill log: Shelter and lock down drills 4/27/26. Fire drill: 5/26/226. Two violations were cited during today’s visit; the provider asked questions about the topics below to ensure the facility stays in compliance. Once was corrected during the visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 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. Expired sunscreen was not discarded within 72 hours of expiration and after authorization had expired. .0803(12) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. Some children's forms did not have the name of the sunscreen or the topical ointment listed on the form, and there wasn't an form provided for some of the sunscreen's. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 6-24-26, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Also, please provide information regarding how the facility will maintain compliance in the future. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov The emailed compliance letter must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Falsification: If child care operators state in the compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, this will be considered falsification of information, and an Administrative Action may be issued. If you cannot meet the requirements by the date, you must contact me with a proposed timeline of the corrections in a timely manner. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. Consultation and Technical Assistance The provider and I discussed ensuring signatures of teachers and parents are on feeding schedules, staff records and files and the importance of having staff having certificates in their file as well, health and safety training and recognizing and responding are to be redone every 5 years. Technical Assistance was given on outlet covers, keys in lock are still considered unlocked, broken toys with sharp edges, rust, expired medications and expired medication forms and expired sunscreen/ topical ointment. SECTION .0600 - SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS 10A NCAC 09 .0601 SAFE ENVIRONMENT (c) Equipment and furnishings shall be sturdy, stable, and free of hazards that may injure children including sharp edges, lead based or peeling paint, rust, loose nails, splinters, protrusions (excluding nuts and bolts on sides of fences), and pinch and crush points. (d) Staff of the center shall immediately remove all equipment and furnishings that do not meet the requirements of Paragraphs (b) and (c) of this Rule from the premises or make the equipment or furnishings inaccessible to the children. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (1) No prescription or over-the-counter medication and no topical, non-medical ointment, repellent, lotion, cream, fluoridated toothpaste, or powder shall be administered to any child: (a) without written authorization from the child's parent; (b) without written instructions from the child's parent, physician or other health professional; (c) in any manner not authorized by the child's parent, physician or other health professional; (d) after its expiration date; (e) for non-medical reasons, such as to induce sleep; or (f) with a known allergy to the medication. (12)Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. A parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to 12 months to apply over-the-counter, topical ointments, topical teething ointment or gel, insect repellents, lotions, creams, fluoridated toothpaste, and powders, such as sunscreen, diapering creams, baby lotion, and baby powder, to a child, when needed. The authorization shall be in writing and shall contain: (a) the child's name; (b) the names of the authorized ointments, repellents, lotions, creams, fluoridated toothpaste, and powders; (c) the criteria for the administration of the ointments, repellents, lotions, creams, fluoridated toothpaste, and powders; (d) the manner in which the ointments, repellents, lotions, creams, fluoridated toothpaste, and powders shall be applied; (e) the signature of the parent; (f) the date the authorization was signed by the parent; and (g) the length of time the authorization is valid, if less than 12 months. Have all staff update WORKS accounts to reflect all currently completed coursework (DCDEE-WORKS) Review staff and training sheet for dates that staff need to have additional training done. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle”. These trainings are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Child care programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/17/2025 Number Present: 35 Completed Date: 12/17/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance unannounced visit. Ms. Taleshia and Ms. Barbara assisted me during the visit. Your program currently operates with a Four-Star issued August 8th, 2019. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty six percent (86%) as of 12/18/25. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on (12/18/25) and LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY INC was listed as current- active. A full assessment and walk-through of the facility was completed today. The following was observed: license posted, and restrictions followed, summary of law posted, attendance taken daily, emergency medical care plan posted, activity plans posted, daily schedule posted, menus posted, allergies posted, storage of hazardous materials and substances, CPR/First Aid and training completed as required, and Criminal Record Checks completed as required. I also observed children in the indoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in art, free time, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. I reviewed all the existing files and one new staff file during today’s visit. A sampling of Children’s files (ten percent of enrollment) was reviewed today. Emergency drill log: Shelter and lock down drills on 12/15/25. Fire drill: 12/16/25. Playground checklist was conducted on 11/18/25. Fire (1/23/25) and sanitation (9/19/25) inspections remain current. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. The following violations were observed, documented and technical assistance regarding maintaining compliance was offered. Violation Number Comment Rule 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child. One child's human milk was not fully prepared, dated, and labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 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. Aerosol dispensers were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. .2820(b) 849 Leftover medicines were not returned to the parent after the course of treatment was completed, after authorization was withdrawn or after authorization had expired and/or medication was not discarded within 72 hours of completion of treatment or withdrawal of authorization. Left over medication that expired on 10/31/25 was not discarded. .0803(12) 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. The administrators First Aid is expired. .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. The administrators CPR is expired. .1102(d) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 12-31-25, 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 that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance Keep all corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product that is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled shall be kept in its original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked area when not in use. Frozen breast milk that is sent from home may be stored frozen for up to seven days. Frozen breast milk shall be labeled with the date received, date thawed for use, and individual child name Check the indoor and outdoor environment daily for debris, vandalism, broken equipment and animal waste. The operator shall keep all areas used by the children, indoors and outdoors, clean and orderly and free of items which are potentially hazardous to children. This includes the removal of items that a child can swallow and use of outdoor play equipment that is too hot to touch. In addition, loose nails or screws and splinters shall be removed on inside and outside equipment. Ensure that parents are filling out the correct form when they bring in medications. Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. No prescription or over-the-counter medication and no topical, non-medical ointment, repellent, lotion, cream, fluoridated toothpaste, or powder shall be administered to any child: (a) without written authorization from the child's parent; (b) without written instructions from the child's parent, physician or other health professional; (c) in any manner not authorized by the child's parent, physician or other health professional; (d) after its expiration date; (e) for non-medical reasons, such as to induce sleep; or (f) with a known allergy to the medication. Make sure the EPR plan is not in draft mode. Upon completion of the Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training, the trained staff shall develop the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan. The Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan means a written plan that addresses how a child care center will respond to both natural and man-made disasters, such as fire, tornado, flood, power failures, chemical spills, bomb threats, earthquakes, blizzards, nuclear disasters, or a dangerous person or persons in the vicinity, to ensure the safety and protection of the children and staff. This Plan must be on a template provided by the Division available at https://rmp.nc.gov/portal/# and completed within four months of completion of the Emergency Preparedness and Response in Child Care training. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. During today’s visit a conversation template was filled out regarding QRIS. Ensure that all education information is current in the W.O.R.K.S. database. Education evaluations can take some time to process so beginning the process early will help to ensure we have the accurate information needed when it is time to complete the rated license assessment. The new QRIS options regarding the three Pathways are online. Please go to our website DCDEE to become knowledgeable about the changes that came into effect July 1, 2025. Agency Information The North Carolina Child Care Rules and Laws are on the Division’s website. Please visit the Division’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for more information. It is your responsibility to be familiar with and in compliance with these rules and laws. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle”. These trainings are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Child care programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Additional resource links https://www.fns.usda.gov/cacfp https://www.childcareaware.org/ https://www.naeyc.org/ https://nrckids.org/CFOC https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/new-recognizing-responding-online-course/. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@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

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/15/2025 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 9/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 110 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 11:05 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 a routine unannounced visit. Currently this facility operates with a Four (4) Star license that was issued August 7thth, 2019. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eight seven percent (87%) as of 9/15/25. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. During today’s visit, a partial assessment of applicable Child Care Requirements was conducted. I monitored your program for compliance with applicable child care. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Four violations were cited during today’s visit. Technical assistance was given to the provider to ensure compliance. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. During today's visit children were not adequately at all times. Today I observed two children walking down the hallway to the kitchen unsupervised. .1801(a)(1-5) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). Prior to the expiration date (3/16/25) of the qualification letter, the staff member J. Ray did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A valid qualification letter was not on file for J. Ray. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. The information on one's child form on file was not updated at least annually, and another child's form did not have a date. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 9-29-25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Also, please provide information regarding how the facility will maintain compliance in the future. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance Outdoor areas should be kept free of excessive dust, weeds, brush, high grass, and standing water. Standing water breeds insects. Emergency medical care information shall be on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and shall be updated as changes occur and at least annually. Prior to the expiration date of a qualification letter, the child care provider shall complete and submit forms. Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. Staff should actively supervise by watching and hearing all children at all times. Staff should supervise children during all activities, including naps, meals, diaper changes, bathroom breaks (as age appropriate), and outdoor play. Program staff should always be in the same room as the children. Active supervision requires staff to pay close attention to children at all times, including transitions between activities and locations. Staff should be able to hear, see, and find children during all activities. The following strategies should be used to allow children to safely explore their environment:1 Positioning Staff: Staff should carefully plan where they will be positioned to keep children safe, placing themselves where they can see and hear the children all the time. Staff should be able to easily see and hear where children are playing, sleeping, and eating. Good positioning allows staff to respond quickly when needed and stay near children who may need extra support. Ensure that all new staff members’ education information is current in the W.O.R.K.S. database. Each staff member must register with the WORKS system as soon as they are hired at any location. Education evaluations can take some time to process so beginning the process early will help to ensure we have the accurate information needed when it is time to complete the rated license assessment before the end of the temporary time period. The new QRIS options regarding the three Pathways are online. Please go to our website DCDEE to become knowledgeable about the changes that came into effect July 1, 2025. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle.” These training courses are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Childcare programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Additional resource links https://www.fns.usda.gov/cacfp https://www.childcareaware.org/ https://www.naeyc.org/ https://nrckids.org/CFOC https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/new-recognizing-responding-online-course/. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/15/2025 Number Present: 34 Completed Date: 9/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 110 Time In: 09:15 AM Time Out: 11:05 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 a routine unannounced visit. Currently this facility operates with a Four (4) Star license that was issued August 7thth, 2019. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eight seven percent (87%) as of 9/15/25. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. During today’s visit, a partial assessment of applicable Child Care Requirements was conducted. I monitored your program for compliance with applicable child care. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Four violations were cited during today’s visit. Technical assistance was given to the provider to ensure compliance. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. During today's visit children were not adequately at all times. Today I observed two children walking down the hallway to the kitchen unsupervised. .1801(a)(1-5) 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). Prior to the expiration date (3/16/25) of the qualification letter, the staff member J. Ray did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A valid qualification letter was not on file for J. Ray. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. The information on one's child form on file was not updated at least annually, and another child's form did not have a date. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 9-29-25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Also, please provide information regarding how the facility will maintain compliance in the future. Please be aware that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance Outdoor areas should be kept free of excessive dust, weeds, brush, high grass, and standing water. Standing water breeds insects. Emergency medical care information shall be on file in the center on the child's first day of attendance and shall be updated as changes occur and at least annually. Prior to the expiration date of a qualification letter, the child care provider shall complete and submit forms. Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. Staff should actively supervise by watching and hearing all children at all times. Staff should supervise children during all activities, including naps, meals, diaper changes, bathroom breaks (as age appropriate), and outdoor play. Program staff should always be in the same room as the children. Active supervision requires staff to pay close attention to children at all times, including transitions between activities and locations. Staff should be able to hear, see, and find children during all activities. The following strategies should be used to allow children to safely explore their environment:1 Positioning Staff: Staff should carefully plan where they will be positioned to keep children safe, placing themselves where they can see and hear the children all the time. Staff should be able to easily see and hear where children are playing, sleeping, and eating. Good positioning allows staff to respond quickly when needed and stay near children who may need extra support. Ensure that all new staff members’ education information is current in the W.O.R.K.S. database. Each staff member must register with the WORKS system as soon as they are hired at any location. Education evaluations can take some time to process so beginning the process early will help to ensure we have the accurate information needed when it is time to complete the rated license assessment before the end of the temporary time period. The new QRIS options regarding the three Pathways are online. Please go to our website DCDEE to become knowledgeable about the changes that came into effect July 1, 2025. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle.” These training courses are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Childcare programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Additional resource links https://www.fns.usda.gov/cacfp https://www.childcareaware.org/ https://www.naeyc.org/ https://nrckids.org/CFOC https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/new-recognizing-responding-online-course/. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@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 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/15/2025 Number Present: 39 Completed Date: 1/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Ms. T. Roberts assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued August 7th, 2019. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 1/30/24. The sanitation inspection was completed 10/18/24 with a “Provisional” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 1/26/24 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty five percent (85%) as of 1/15/25. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on (1/15/25) LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY INC was listed; however, the provider has switched accountants and will inform me when the changes have been updated. A full assessment and walk-through of the facility was completed today: license posted, and restrictions followed, summary of law posted, attendance taken daily, emergency medical care plan posted, activity plans posted, daily schedule posted, menus posted, allergies posted, storage of hazardous materials and substances, CPR/First Aid and SIDS training completed as required, and Criminal Record Checks completed as required. I observed children in the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, art, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. I reviewed one new staff file during today’s visit. Existing staff files were not reviewed during the visit. A Staff and Training Worksheet was e-mailed to the director prior to today’s visit. I received the Staff and Training Worksheet and reviewed it for compliance. A sampling of Children’s files (ten percent of enrollment) was reviewed today. The outdoor Inspection was conducted on 1/10/25. Emergency drill log: Shelter and lock down drills on in November. The next one is due by January 31st, 2025. Fire drill: 12/4/24. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Seven violations were cited during today’s visit. However technical assistance was given to the provider to ensure compliance. Violation Number Comment Rule 104 Center has not passed required sanitation inspection and received an approved or superior rating. The last sanitation inspection was on 10/18/24 with 15 demerits and a provisional classification. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. A electrical outlet did not have a safety plug in room number 3. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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. A product which is under pressure in a aerosol dispenser was not stored in a locked room or cabinet in room number 1. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. A child in the infant classroom and in the toddler classroom had on amber teething necklaces. These necklaces could cause chocking and or strangulation for children under the age of three. .0604(q) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child's file did not have a medical report on file within 30 days of admission. GS110-91(1) 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. One new staff member did not review the policy prior to providing care with children or signed acknowledgement. The staff member did review and sign during today's visit. .0608(d)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. A over the counter medication (soothing tablets) did not have a authorization form filled out by a parent. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 1-28-25, 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 that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance The provider and I discussed why amber teething necklaces are not allowed for children under three, electrical outlets not in use need to be covered, over the counter medication forms and storage of hazardous materials. Safe sleep practices help reduce the risk of sleep-related sudden and unexpected infant deaths (SUID), including sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), suffocation, strangulation, entrapment and other deaths while an infant is in a crib or asleep. Early care and education programs should develop and follow written policies describing safe sleep practices for infants. Programs should keep documentation that everyone who enters rooms where infants are cared for  that is, staff, volunteers, and other approved caregivers  has received and read their safe sleep policy. Remove bibs, necklaces, and garments with ties or hoods. Potential chocking hazard. Toxic substances, which include 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 shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. No prescription or over-the-counter medication and no topical, non-medical ointment, repellent, lotion, cream, fluoridated toothpaste or powder shall be administered to any child: without written authorization from the child's parent; without written instructions from the child's parent, physician or other health professional; in any manner not authorized by the child's parent, physician or other health professional; after its expiration date; for non-medical reasons, such as to induce sleep; or with a known allergy to the medication. Over-the-counter medications, such as cough syrup, decongestant, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, topical antibiotic cream for abrasions, or medication for intestinal disorders shall be stored in the manufacturer's original packaging on which the child's name is written or labeled and shall be accompanied by written instructions specifying: the child's name; the names of the authorized over-the-counter medication; the amount and frequency of the dosages, which shall not exceed the amount and frequency of the dosages on the manufacturer's label; the signature of the parent, physician or other health professional; and the date the instructions were signed by the parent, physician or other health professional. The permission to administer over-the-counter medications is valid for up to 30 days at a time, except as allowed in Subparagraphs (b)(6), (7), (8), and (9) of this Rule. Over-the-counter medications shall not be administered on an "as needed" basis, other than as allowed in Subparagraphs (b)(6), (7), (8), and (9) of this Rule. (5) When questions arise concerning whether any medication should be administered to a child, the caregiver may decline to administer the medication without signed, written dosage instructions from a licensed physician or authorized health professional. (6) A parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to six months to administer prescription or over-the-counter medication to a child, when needed, for chronic medical conditions such as asthma, and for allergic reactions. When not in use, electrical outlets and power strips located in space used by children shall have safety outlets or be covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. 10A NCAC 09 .0304 ON-GOING REQUIREMENTS FOR A LICENSE Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division. Each center shall be inspected annually by an Environmental Health Specialist and receive an approved or superior rating in accordance with applicable sanitation requirements adopted by the Commission for Public Health as described in 15A NCAC 18A .2800. Early care and education program staff should actively supervise by watching and hearing all children at all times. Staff should supervise children during all activities, including naps, meals, diaper changes, bathroom breaks (as age appropriate), and outdoor play. Program staff should always be in the same room as the children. Staff should use their understanding of children’s developmental abilities to guide supervision and step in as needed to reduce injuries. Active supervision requires staff to pay close attention to children at all times, including transitions between activities and locations. Staff should be able to hear, see, and find children during all activities. During transitions, staff should account for all children by matching name-to-face to visually identify each child. Program Reminders S. Moore needs to retake recognizing and responding to suspicious maltreatment. This training is to be taken every 5 years with the health and safety training. She also needs to do the health and safety tracings since she is helping with breaks. All staff who have completed all the required on-going trainings, have until 1/30/25 to do so. Please update staff and training worksheets and send to me via email. Place CPR and First Aid certificates in staff files. TB, Medical and Health questionnaires are to be placed in a separate file. On the staff and training worksheets make sure to add the dates and not check marks. Update the emergency preparedness plan in the risk management portal. Agency Information The North Carolina Child Care Rules and Laws are on the Division’s website. Please visit the Division’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for more information. It is your responsibility to be familiar with and in compliance with these rules and laws. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle”. These training courses are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Child care programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Additional resource links https://www.fns.usda.gov/cacfp https://www.childcareaware.org/ https://www.naeyc.org/ https://nrckids.org/CFOC https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/new-recognizing-responding-online-course/. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@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 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/15/2025 Number Present: 39 Completed Date: 1/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Ms. T. Roberts assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued August 7th, 2019. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 1/30/24. The sanitation inspection was completed 10/18/24 with a “Provisional” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 1/26/24 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty five percent (85%) as of 1/15/25. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on (1/15/25) LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY INC was listed; however, the provider has switched accountants and will inform me when the changes have been updated. A full assessment and walk-through of the facility was completed today: license posted, and restrictions followed, summary of law posted, attendance taken daily, emergency medical care plan posted, activity plans posted, daily schedule posted, menus posted, allergies posted, storage of hazardous materials and substances, CPR/First Aid and SIDS training completed as required, and Criminal Record Checks completed as required. I observed children in the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, art, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. I reviewed one new staff file during today’s visit. Existing staff files were not reviewed during the visit. A Staff and Training Worksheet was e-mailed to the director prior to today’s visit. I received the Staff and Training Worksheet and reviewed it for compliance. A sampling of Children’s files (ten percent of enrollment) was reviewed today. The outdoor Inspection was conducted on 1/10/25. Emergency drill log: Shelter and lock down drills on in November. The next one is due by January 31st, 2025. Fire drill: 12/4/24. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Seven violations were cited during today’s visit. However technical assistance was given to the provider to ensure compliance. Violation Number Comment Rule 104 Center has not passed required sanitation inspection and received an approved or superior rating. The last sanitation inspection was on 10/18/24 with 15 demerits and a provisional classification. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. A electrical outlet did not have a safety plug in room number 3. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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. A product which is under pressure in a aerosol dispenser was not stored in a locked room or cabinet in room number 1. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. A child in the infant classroom and in the toddler classroom had on amber teething necklaces. These necklaces could cause chocking and or strangulation for children under the age of three. .0604(q) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child's file did not have a medical report on file within 30 days of admission. GS110-91(1) 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. One new staff member did not review the policy prior to providing care with children or signed acknowledgement. The staff member did review and sign during today's visit. .0608(d)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. A over the counter medication (soothing tablets) did not have a authorization form filled out by a parent. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 1-28-25, 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 that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance The provider and I discussed why amber teething necklaces are not allowed for children under three, electrical outlets not in use need to be covered, over the counter medication forms and storage of hazardous materials. Safe sleep practices help reduce the risk of sleep-related sudden and unexpected infant deaths (SUID), including sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), suffocation, strangulation, entrapment and other deaths while an infant is in a crib or asleep. Early care and education programs should develop and follow written policies describing safe sleep practices for infants. Programs should keep documentation that everyone who enters rooms where infants are cared for  that is, staff, volunteers, and other approved caregivers  has received and read their safe sleep policy. Remove bibs, necklaces, and garments with ties or hoods. Potential chocking hazard. Toxic substances, which include 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 shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. No prescription or over-the-counter medication and no topical, non-medical ointment, repellent, lotion, cream, fluoridated toothpaste or powder shall be administered to any child: without written authorization from the child's parent; without written instructions from the child's parent, physician or other health professional; in any manner not authorized by the child's parent, physician or other health professional; after its expiration date; for non-medical reasons, such as to induce sleep; or with a known allergy to the medication. Over-the-counter medications, such as cough syrup, decongestant, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, topical antibiotic cream for abrasions, or medication for intestinal disorders shall be stored in the manufacturer's original packaging on which the child's name is written or labeled and shall be accompanied by written instructions specifying: the child's name; the names of the authorized over-the-counter medication; the amount and frequency of the dosages, which shall not exceed the amount and frequency of the dosages on the manufacturer's label; the signature of the parent, physician or other health professional; and the date the instructions were signed by the parent, physician or other health professional. The permission to administer over-the-counter medications is valid for up to 30 days at a time, except as allowed in Subparagraphs (b)(6), (7), (8), and (9) of this Rule. Over-the-counter medications shall not be administered on an "as needed" basis, other than as allowed in Subparagraphs (b)(6), (7), (8), and (9) of this Rule. (5) When questions arise concerning whether any medication should be administered to a child, the caregiver may decline to administer the medication without signed, written dosage instructions from a licensed physician or authorized health professional. (6) A parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to six months to administer prescription or over-the-counter medication to a child, when needed, for chronic medical conditions such as asthma, and for allergic reactions. When not in use, electrical outlets and power strips located in space used by children shall have safety outlets or be covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. 10A NCAC 09 .0304 ON-GOING REQUIREMENTS FOR A LICENSE Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division. Each center shall be inspected annually by an Environmental Health Specialist and receive an approved or superior rating in accordance with applicable sanitation requirements adopted by the Commission for Public Health as described in 15A NCAC 18A .2800. Early care and education program staff should actively supervise by watching and hearing all children at all times. Staff should supervise children during all activities, including naps, meals, diaper changes, bathroom breaks (as age appropriate), and outdoor play. Program staff should always be in the same room as the children. Staff should use their understanding of children’s developmental abilities to guide supervision and step in as needed to reduce injuries. Active supervision requires staff to pay close attention to children at all times, including transitions between activities and locations. Staff should be able to hear, see, and find children during all activities. During transitions, staff should account for all children by matching name-to-face to visually identify each child. Program Reminders S. Moore needs to retake recognizing and responding to suspicious maltreatment. This training is to be taken every 5 years with the health and safety training. She also needs to do the health and safety tracings since she is helping with breaks. All staff who have completed all the required on-going trainings, have until 1/30/25 to do so. Please update staff and training worksheets and send to me via email. Place CPR and First Aid certificates in staff files. TB, Medical and Health questionnaires are to be placed in a separate file. On the staff and training worksheets make sure to add the dates and not check marks. Update the emergency preparedness plan in the risk management portal. Agency Information The North Carolina Child Care Rules and Laws are on the Division’s website. Please visit the Division’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for more information. It is your responsibility to be familiar with and in compliance with these rules and laws. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle”. These training courses are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Child care programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Additional resource links https://www.fns.usda.gov/cacfp https://www.childcareaware.org/ https://www.naeyc.org/ https://nrckids.org/CFOC https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/new-recognizing-responding-online-course/. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@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

GS110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/15/2025 Number Present: 39 Completed Date: 1/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Ms. T. Roberts assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued August 7th, 2019. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 1/30/24. The sanitation inspection was completed 10/18/24 with a “Provisional” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 1/26/24 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty five percent (85%) as of 1/15/25. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on (1/15/25) LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY INC was listed; however, the provider has switched accountants and will inform me when the changes have been updated. A full assessment and walk-through of the facility was completed today: license posted, and restrictions followed, summary of law posted, attendance taken daily, emergency medical care plan posted, activity plans posted, daily schedule posted, menus posted, allergies posted, storage of hazardous materials and substances, CPR/First Aid and SIDS training completed as required, and Criminal Record Checks completed as required. I observed children in the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, art, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. I reviewed one new staff file during today’s visit. Existing staff files were not reviewed during the visit. A Staff and Training Worksheet was e-mailed to the director prior to today’s visit. I received the Staff and Training Worksheet and reviewed it for compliance. A sampling of Children’s files (ten percent of enrollment) was reviewed today. The outdoor Inspection was conducted on 1/10/25. Emergency drill log: Shelter and lock down drills on in November. The next one is due by January 31st, 2025. Fire drill: 12/4/24. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Seven violations were cited during today’s visit. However technical assistance was given to the provider to ensure compliance. Violation Number Comment Rule 104 Center has not passed required sanitation inspection and received an approved or superior rating. The last sanitation inspection was on 10/18/24 with 15 demerits and a provisional classification. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. A electrical outlet did not have a safety plug in room number 3. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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. A product which is under pressure in a aerosol dispenser was not stored in a locked room or cabinet in room number 1. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. A child in the infant classroom and in the toddler classroom had on amber teething necklaces. These necklaces could cause chocking and or strangulation for children under the age of three. .0604(q) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child's file did not have a medical report on file within 30 days of admission. GS110-91(1) 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. One new staff member did not review the policy prior to providing care with children or signed acknowledgement. The staff member did review and sign during today's visit. .0608(d)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. A over the counter medication (soothing tablets) did not have a authorization form filled out by a parent. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 1-28-25, 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 that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance The provider and I discussed why amber teething necklaces are not allowed for children under three, electrical outlets not in use need to be covered, over the counter medication forms and storage of hazardous materials. Safe sleep practices help reduce the risk of sleep-related sudden and unexpected infant deaths (SUID), including sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), suffocation, strangulation, entrapment and other deaths while an infant is in a crib or asleep. Early care and education programs should develop and follow written policies describing safe sleep practices for infants. Programs should keep documentation that everyone who enters rooms where infants are cared for  that is, staff, volunteers, and other approved caregivers  has received and read their safe sleep policy. Remove bibs, necklaces, and garments with ties or hoods. Potential chocking hazard. Toxic substances, which include 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 shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. No prescription or over-the-counter medication and no topical, non-medical ointment, repellent, lotion, cream, fluoridated toothpaste or powder shall be administered to any child: without written authorization from the child's parent; without written instructions from the child's parent, physician or other health professional; in any manner not authorized by the child's parent, physician or other health professional; after its expiration date; for non-medical reasons, such as to induce sleep; or with a known allergy to the medication. Over-the-counter medications, such as cough syrup, decongestant, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, topical antibiotic cream for abrasions, or medication for intestinal disorders shall be stored in the manufacturer's original packaging on which the child's name is written or labeled and shall be accompanied by written instructions specifying: the child's name; the names of the authorized over-the-counter medication; the amount and frequency of the dosages, which shall not exceed the amount and frequency of the dosages on the manufacturer's label; the signature of the parent, physician or other health professional; and the date the instructions were signed by the parent, physician or other health professional. The permission to administer over-the-counter medications is valid for up to 30 days at a time, except as allowed in Subparagraphs (b)(6), (7), (8), and (9) of this Rule. Over-the-counter medications shall not be administered on an "as needed" basis, other than as allowed in Subparagraphs (b)(6), (7), (8), and (9) of this Rule. (5) When questions arise concerning whether any medication should be administered to a child, the caregiver may decline to administer the medication without signed, written dosage instructions from a licensed physician or authorized health professional. (6) A parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to six months to administer prescription or over-the-counter medication to a child, when needed, for chronic medical conditions such as asthma, and for allergic reactions. When not in use, electrical outlets and power strips located in space used by children shall have safety outlets or be covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. 10A NCAC 09 .0304 ON-GOING REQUIREMENTS FOR A LICENSE Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division. Each center shall be inspected annually by an Environmental Health Specialist and receive an approved or superior rating in accordance with applicable sanitation requirements adopted by the Commission for Public Health as described in 15A NCAC 18A .2800. Early care and education program staff should actively supervise by watching and hearing all children at all times. Staff should supervise children during all activities, including naps, meals, diaper changes, bathroom breaks (as age appropriate), and outdoor play. Program staff should always be in the same room as the children. Staff should use their understanding of children’s developmental abilities to guide supervision and step in as needed to reduce injuries. Active supervision requires staff to pay close attention to children at all times, including transitions between activities and locations. Staff should be able to hear, see, and find children during all activities. During transitions, staff should account for all children by matching name-to-face to visually identify each child. Program Reminders S. Moore needs to retake recognizing and responding to suspicious maltreatment. This training is to be taken every 5 years with the health and safety training. She also needs to do the health and safety tracings since she is helping with breaks. All staff who have completed all the required on-going trainings, have until 1/30/25 to do so. Please update staff and training worksheets and send to me via email. Place CPR and First Aid certificates in staff files. TB, Medical and Health questionnaires are to be placed in a separate file. On the staff and training worksheets make sure to add the dates and not check marks. Update the emergency preparedness plan in the risk management portal. Agency Information The North Carolina Child Care Rules and Laws are on the Division’s website. Please visit the Division’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for more information. It is your responsibility to be familiar with and in compliance with these rules and laws. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle”. These training courses are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Child care programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Additional resource links https://www.fns.usda.gov/cacfp https://www.childcareaware.org/ https://www.naeyc.org/ https://nrckids.org/CFOC https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/new-recognizing-responding-online-course/. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/15/2025 Number Present: 39 Completed Date: 1/15/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 250 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. Ms. T. Roberts assisted me with today’s visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued August 7th, 2019. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 1/30/24. The sanitation inspection was completed 10/18/24 with a “Provisional” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 1/26/24 and your facility was approved for daytime care only. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was eighty five percent (85%) as of 1/15/25. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on (1/15/25) LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY INC was listed; however, the provider has switched accountants and will inform me when the changes have been updated. A full assessment and walk-through of the facility was completed today: license posted, and restrictions followed, summary of law posted, attendance taken daily, emergency medical care plan posted, activity plans posted, daily schedule posted, menus posted, allergies posted, storage of hazardous materials and substances, CPR/First Aid and SIDS training completed as required, and Criminal Record Checks completed as required. I observed children in the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, art, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. I reviewed one new staff file during today’s visit. Existing staff files were not reviewed during the visit. A Staff and Training Worksheet was e-mailed to the director prior to today’s visit. I received the Staff and Training Worksheet and reviewed it for compliance. A sampling of Children’s files (ten percent of enrollment) was reviewed today. The outdoor Inspection was conducted on 1/10/25. Emergency drill log: Shelter and lock down drills on in November. The next one is due by January 31st, 2025. Fire drill: 12/4/24. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Seven violations were cited during today’s visit. However technical assistance was given to the provider to ensure compliance. Violation Number Comment Rule 104 Center has not passed required sanitation inspection and received an approved or superior rating. The last sanitation inspection was on 10/18/24 with 15 demerits and a provisional classification. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(b) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. A electrical outlet did not have a safety plug in room number 3. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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. A product which is under pressure in a aerosol dispenser was not stored in a locked room or cabinet in room number 1. .2820(b) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. A child in the infant classroom and in the toddler classroom had on amber teething necklaces. These necklaces could cause chocking and or strangulation for children under the age of three. .0604(q) 1321 Medical exam or health assessment record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. A child's file did not have a medical report on file within 30 days of admission. GS110-91(1) 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. One new staff member did not review the policy prior to providing care with children or signed acknowledgement. The staff member did review and sign during today's visit. .0608(d)(1-4) 1882 Medication authorization, giving the caregiver standing authorization did not meet the specifications in rule. A over the counter medication (soothing tablets) did not have a authorization form filled out by a parent. .0803(6)(a-i); .0803(7)(a-g); .0803(8)(a-d) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 1-28-25, 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 that any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance The provider and I discussed why amber teething necklaces are not allowed for children under three, electrical outlets not in use need to be covered, over the counter medication forms and storage of hazardous materials. Safe sleep practices help reduce the risk of sleep-related sudden and unexpected infant deaths (SUID), including sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), suffocation, strangulation, entrapment and other deaths while an infant is in a crib or asleep. Early care and education programs should develop and follow written policies describing safe sleep practices for infants. Programs should keep documentation that everyone who enters rooms where infants are cared for  that is, staff, volunteers, and other approved caregivers  has received and read their safe sleep policy. Remove bibs, necklaces, and garments with ties or hoods. Potential chocking hazard. Toxic substances, which include 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 shall be kept in the original container or in another labeled container, used according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stored in a locked storage room or cabinet when not in use. No prescription or over-the-counter medication and no topical, non-medical ointment, repellent, lotion, cream, fluoridated toothpaste or powder shall be administered to any child: without written authorization from the child's parent; without written instructions from the child's parent, physician or other health professional; in any manner not authorized by the child's parent, physician or other health professional; after its expiration date; for non-medical reasons, such as to induce sleep; or with a known allergy to the medication. Over-the-counter medications, such as cough syrup, decongestant, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, topical antibiotic cream for abrasions, or medication for intestinal disorders shall be stored in the manufacturer's original packaging on which the child's name is written or labeled and shall be accompanied by written instructions specifying: the child's name; the names of the authorized over-the-counter medication; the amount and frequency of the dosages, which shall not exceed the amount and frequency of the dosages on the manufacturer's label; the signature of the parent, physician or other health professional; and the date the instructions were signed by the parent, physician or other health professional. The permission to administer over-the-counter medications is valid for up to 30 days at a time, except as allowed in Subparagraphs (b)(6), (7), (8), and (9) of this Rule. Over-the-counter medications shall not be administered on an "as needed" basis, other than as allowed in Subparagraphs (b)(6), (7), (8), and (9) of this Rule. (5) When questions arise concerning whether any medication should be administered to a child, the caregiver may decline to administer the medication without signed, written dosage instructions from a licensed physician or authorized health professional. (6) A parent may give a caregiver standing authorization for up to six months to administer prescription or over-the-counter medication to a child, when needed, for chronic medical conditions such as asthma, and for allergic reactions. When not in use, electrical outlets and power strips located in space used by children shall have safety outlets or be covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. 10A NCAC 09 .0304 ON-GOING REQUIREMENTS FOR A LICENSE Each operator shall schedule and obtain a fire inspection within 12 months of the center's previous fire inspection. The operator shall notify the local fire inspector when it is time for the center's annual fire inspection. The operator shall submit the original of the approved annual fire inspection report to the Division within one week of the inspection visit on the form provided by the Division. Each center shall be inspected annually by an Environmental Health Specialist and receive an approved or superior rating in accordance with applicable sanitation requirements adopted by the Commission for Public Health as described in 15A NCAC 18A .2800. Early care and education program staff should actively supervise by watching and hearing all children at all times. Staff should supervise children during all activities, including naps, meals, diaper changes, bathroom breaks (as age appropriate), and outdoor play. Program staff should always be in the same room as the children. Staff should use their understanding of children’s developmental abilities to guide supervision and step in as needed to reduce injuries. Active supervision requires staff to pay close attention to children at all times, including transitions between activities and locations. Staff should be able to hear, see, and find children during all activities. During transitions, staff should account for all children by matching name-to-face to visually identify each child. Program Reminders S. Moore needs to retake recognizing and responding to suspicious maltreatment. This training is to be taken every 5 years with the health and safety training. She also needs to do the health and safety tracings since she is helping with breaks. All staff who have completed all the required on-going trainings, have until 1/30/25 to do so. Please update staff and training worksheets and send to me via email. Place CPR and First Aid certificates in staff files. TB, Medical and Health questionnaires are to be placed in a separate file. On the staff and training worksheets make sure to add the dates and not check marks. Update the emergency preparedness plan in the risk management portal. Agency Information The North Carolina Child Care Rules and Laws are on the Division’s website. Please visit the Division’s website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ for more information. It is your responsibility to be familiar with and in compliance with these rules and laws. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle”. These training courses are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Child care programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Additional resource links https://www.fns.usda.gov/cacfp https://www.childcareaware.org/ https://www.naeyc.org/ https://nrckids.org/CFOC https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/new-recognizing-responding-online-course/. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@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 .0514 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/4/2024 Number Present: 35 Completed Date: 9/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 12:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable childcare requirements for a routine unannounced compliance visit. Ms. T. Roberts (Lead Teacher) and Mrs. B. Winters assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a Four-star license, issued 8-7-19. A full walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in the indoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, art, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. The following items were observed in compliance during today's visit: license posted, and restrictions followed, summary of law posted, attendance taken daily, emergency medical care plan posted, activity plans posted, daily schedule posted, menus posted, allergies posted, storage of hazardous materials and substances, CPR/First Aid and SIDS training completed as required, and Criminal Record Checks completed as required. Two new staff member’s files were monitored during today’s visit. Sanitation inspection remains current as of today (9/6/23). Fire inspection remains current as of today (1/26/24). Playground inspection :8/12/24. Emergency drill log: Shelter and lock down drills 7/25/24. Fire drill: 8/19/24. Five violations were cited during today’s visit; the provider did ask questions about the topics below to ensure the facility stays in compliance. Violation Number Comment Rule 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, one staff member did not submit required forms to complete a criminal background check. Staff member A. Townsend's qualification letter expired on May 22,2024 and she did not submit required forms online until August 23rd 2024 and finger prints on August 24th 2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1233 Each employee's personnel file did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. One staff member did not have a job description and that they have received personnel and operational polices. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(g) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A valid qualification letter was not on file during today's visit for staff member S. Sanders who was hired in July 2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 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 prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma policy was not signed or maintained on file for review for one staff member who started in July 2024. .0608(d)(1-4) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. One staff member did not have a medical report on file during today's visit. .0701(d) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 917-24, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Also, please provide information regarding how the facility will maintain compliance in the future. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov The emailed compliance letter must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Falsification: If child care operators state in the compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, this will be considered falsification of information, and an Administrative Action may be issued. If you cannot meet the requirements by the date, you must contact me with a proposed timeline of the corrections in a timely manner. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. Consultation and Technical Assistance The provider and I discussed ensuring signatures of teacher’s and parents are on feeding schedules, staff records and files and the importance of have staff submit required paperwork before criminal background checks expire. I shared information regarding tomato plants and animals. From the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education: Yes, growing tomatoes inside your licensed child care outdoor learning environment is fine for children 3 years of age or older. Gardens are acceptable but would need to be maintained. Growing tomato plants in infant and toddler play areas (children 2 years of age or younger) is not allowed. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 ANIMAL AND VERMIN CONTROL Animals that are not contained in a cage or restrained on a leash, except those used in supervised activities or pet therapy programs, shall not be allowed in a child care center, including the outdoor learning environment. When animals are on the child care center premises, copies of each animal's vaccination records shall be available for review upon request during a sanitation inspection of the child care center. Any animals kept at the child care center as pets shall be examined by a veterinarian to determine that they are free from pests and pathogens that could adversely affect human health. Turtles, iguanas, frogs, salamanders, and other reptiles or amphibians shall not be kept as pets on the child care center premises. Program Reminders Send me a copy of the sanitation inspection once it is completed. B. Winters SIDS expires in OCTOBER 2024. T. Green and S. Sanders need to take CPR and First Aid training. W. Richardson E. Brogden and the two new hires need to retake the Recognizing and responding training. It needs to be taken every five years and they both took it in 2019. Have all staff update WORKS accounts to reflect all currently completed coursework (DCDEE-WORKS) Review staff and training sheet for dates that staff need to have additional training done. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle”. These trainings are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Child care programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@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

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/4/2024 Number Present: 35 Completed Date: 9/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 12:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable childcare requirements for a routine unannounced compliance visit. Ms. T. Roberts (Lead Teacher) and Mrs. B. Winters assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a Four-star license, issued 8-7-19. A full walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in the indoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, art, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. The following items were observed in compliance during today's visit: license posted, and restrictions followed, summary of law posted, attendance taken daily, emergency medical care plan posted, activity plans posted, daily schedule posted, menus posted, allergies posted, storage of hazardous materials and substances, CPR/First Aid and SIDS training completed as required, and Criminal Record Checks completed as required. Two new staff member’s files were monitored during today’s visit. Sanitation inspection remains current as of today (9/6/23). Fire inspection remains current as of today (1/26/24). Playground inspection :8/12/24. Emergency drill log: Shelter and lock down drills 7/25/24. Fire drill: 8/19/24. Five violations were cited during today’s visit; the provider did ask questions about the topics below to ensure the facility stays in compliance. Violation Number Comment Rule 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, one staff member did not submit required forms to complete a criminal background check. Staff member A. Townsend's qualification letter expired on May 22,2024 and she did not submit required forms online until August 23rd 2024 and finger prints on August 24th 2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1233 Each employee's personnel file did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. One staff member did not have a job description and that they have received personnel and operational polices. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(g) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A valid qualification letter was not on file during today's visit for staff member S. Sanders who was hired in July 2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 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 prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma policy was not signed or maintained on file for review for one staff member who started in July 2024. .0608(d)(1-4) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. One staff member did not have a medical report on file during today's visit. .0701(d) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 917-24, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Also, please provide information regarding how the facility will maintain compliance in the future. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov The emailed compliance letter must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Falsification: If child care operators state in the compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, this will be considered falsification of information, and an Administrative Action may be issued. If you cannot meet the requirements by the date, you must contact me with a proposed timeline of the corrections in a timely manner. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. Consultation and Technical Assistance The provider and I discussed ensuring signatures of teacher’s and parents are on feeding schedules, staff records and files and the importance of have staff submit required paperwork before criminal background checks expire. I shared information regarding tomato plants and animals. From the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education: Yes, growing tomatoes inside your licensed child care outdoor learning environment is fine for children 3 years of age or older. Gardens are acceptable but would need to be maintained. Growing tomato plants in infant and toddler play areas (children 2 years of age or younger) is not allowed. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 ANIMAL AND VERMIN CONTROL Animals that are not contained in a cage or restrained on a leash, except those used in supervised activities or pet therapy programs, shall not be allowed in a child care center, including the outdoor learning environment. When animals are on the child care center premises, copies of each animal's vaccination records shall be available for review upon request during a sanitation inspection of the child care center. Any animals kept at the child care center as pets shall be examined by a veterinarian to determine that they are free from pests and pathogens that could adversely affect human health. Turtles, iguanas, frogs, salamanders, and other reptiles or amphibians shall not be kept as pets on the child care center premises. Program Reminders Send me a copy of the sanitation inspection once it is completed. B. Winters SIDS expires in OCTOBER 2024. T. Green and S. Sanders need to take CPR and First Aid training. W. Richardson E. Brogden and the two new hires need to retake the Recognizing and responding training. It needs to be taken every five years and they both took it in 2019. Have all staff update WORKS accounts to reflect all currently completed coursework (DCDEE-WORKS) Review staff and training sheet for dates that staff need to have additional training done. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle”. These trainings are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Child care programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/4/2024 Number Present: 35 Completed Date: 9/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 185 Time In: 09:05 AM Time Out: 12:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable childcare requirements for a routine unannounced compliance visit. Ms. T. Roberts (Lead Teacher) and Mrs. B. Winters assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a Four-star license, issued 8-7-19. A full walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in the indoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, art, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. The following items were observed in compliance during today's visit: license posted, and restrictions followed, summary of law posted, attendance taken daily, emergency medical care plan posted, activity plans posted, daily schedule posted, menus posted, allergies posted, storage of hazardous materials and substances, CPR/First Aid and SIDS training completed as required, and Criminal Record Checks completed as required. Two new staff member’s files were monitored during today’s visit. Sanitation inspection remains current as of today (9/6/23). Fire inspection remains current as of today (1/26/24). Playground inspection :8/12/24. Emergency drill log: Shelter and lock down drills 7/25/24. Fire drill: 8/19/24. Five violations were cited during today’s visit; the provider did ask questions about the topics below to ensure the facility stays in compliance. Violation Number Comment Rule 1044 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years for the date of issuance). Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, one staff member did not submit required forms to complete a criminal background check. Staff member A. Townsend's qualification letter expired on May 22,2024 and she did not submit required forms online until August 23rd 2024 and finger prints on August 24th 2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & .2703(n)&(o) 1233 Each employee's personnel file did not contain a signed and dated statement that they received a job description and that they have received personnel and operational policies. One staff member did not have a job description and that they have received personnel and operational polices. 10A NCAC 09 .0514(g) 1757 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available to review at the facility. A valid qualification letter was not on file during today's visit for staff member S. Sanders who was hired in July 2024. G.S. 110-90.2(b) & (d) & .2703(e) 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 prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma policy was not signed or maintained on file for review for one staff member who started in July 2024. .0608(d)(1-4) 1890 Each staff member did not have the required medical report, proof of tuberculosis test or screening and/or completed health questionnaire in a medical file, maintained separately from the staff member's individual personnel file. One staff member did not have a medical report on file during today's visit. .0701(d) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 917-24, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Also, please provide information regarding how the facility will maintain compliance in the future. Please be aware any information submitted by you is considered legal documentation. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov The emailed compliance letter must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Falsification: If child care operators state in the compliance letter that corrections have been made when they have not, this will be considered falsification of information, and an Administrative Action may be issued. If you cannot meet the requirements by the date, you must contact me with a proposed timeline of the corrections in a timely manner. In some cases, this timeline may be extended. Consultation and Technical Assistance The provider and I discussed ensuring signatures of teacher’s and parents are on feeding schedules, staff records and files and the importance of have staff submit required paperwork before criminal background checks expire. I shared information regarding tomato plants and animals. From the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education: Yes, growing tomatoes inside your licensed child care outdoor learning environment is fine for children 3 years of age or older. Gardens are acceptable but would need to be maintained. Growing tomato plants in infant and toddler play areas (children 2 years of age or younger) is not allowed. 15A NCAC 18A .2831 ANIMAL AND VERMIN CONTROL Animals that are not contained in a cage or restrained on a leash, except those used in supervised activities or pet therapy programs, shall not be allowed in a child care center, including the outdoor learning environment. When animals are on the child care center premises, copies of each animal's vaccination records shall be available for review upon request during a sanitation inspection of the child care center. Any animals kept at the child care center as pets shall be examined by a veterinarian to determine that they are free from pests and pathogens that could adversely affect human health. Turtles, iguanas, frogs, salamanders, and other reptiles or amphibians shall not be kept as pets on the child care center premises. Program Reminders Send me a copy of the sanitation inspection once it is completed. B. Winters SIDS expires in OCTOBER 2024. T. Green and S. Sanders need to take CPR and First Aid training. W. Richardson E. Brogden and the two new hires need to retake the Recognizing and responding training. It needs to be taken every five years and they both took it in 2019. Have all staff update WORKS accounts to reflect all currently completed coursework (DCDEE-WORKS) Review staff and training sheet for dates that staff need to have additional training done. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle”. These trainings are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Child care programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@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 .0901 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/30/2024 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 1/30/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance unannounced visit. Ms. Taleisha, a lead teacher assisted me during the visit until Ms. Barbara Winters Owner/Director arrived. Your program currently operates with a Four-Star issued August 7h, 2019. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was one hundred percent (89%) as of 1/30/24. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on (1/30/24) and LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY INC was listed as current- active. A full assessment and walk-through of the facility was completed today. The following was observed: license posted, and restrictions followed, summary of law posted, attendance taken daily, emergency medical care plan posted, activity plans posted, daily schedule posted, menus posted, allergies posted, storage of hazardous materials and substances, CPR/First Aid and SIDS training completed as required, and Criminal Record Checks completed as required. I also observed children in the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in, free play in activity areas, art, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. I reviewed staff files during today’s visit. Some existing staff files were not reviewed during the visit because a Staff and Training Worksheet was e-mailed to the director prior to today’s visit. I received the Staff and Training Worksheet and reviewed it for compliance before today’s visit. A sampling of Children’s files (ten percent of enrollment) was reviewed today. The playground Inspection was conducted on 1/18/24. Emergency drill log: Shelter and lock down drills on 1/24/24. Fire drill: 1/8/24. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Eight violations were cited during today’s visit. However technical assistance was given to the provider to ensure compliance. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference.A current activity plan was posted during today's visit and activity plan did not have the date. The date was added during today's visit. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. Menus for all meals and snacks was not posted,dated or current. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child.Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages sent from a child's home were not dated and or labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) Two individual written feeding plans was not provided by a child's parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. THree written feeding plans did not include a signature by the staff when received by the center. .0902(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. An aersol dispenser was not stored in a locked room or cabinet in three classrooms. .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.Leftover diaper cream was not returned to the parent after it expired within 72 hours or discarded. .0803(12) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Plastic bags,were accessible to children under three years of age. .0604(q) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 2-13-24, 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. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant (202 Edinburgh Street) Stem, NC 27581 Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance SECTION .0900 - NUTRITION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .0901 GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS (b) When food is prepared by or provided by the center, menus for nutritious meals and snacks shall be planned at least one week in advance. At least one dated copy of the current week's menu shall be posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff when food is prepared or provided by the center. A variety of food shall be included in meals and snacks. Any substitution shall be of comparable food value and shall be recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. (g) Children's special diets or food allergies shall be posted where they can be seen in the food preparation area and in the child's eating area. (h) The food required by special diets for medical, religious, or cultural reasons, or parental preferences, may be provided by the center or may be brought to the center by the parents. If the diet is prescribed by a health care professional, a statement signed by the health care professional shall be on file at the center and written instructions shall be provided by the child's parent, health care professional, or a licensed dietitian/nutritionist. If the diet is not prescribed by a health care professional, written instructions shall be provided by the child's parent and shall be on file at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. (b) Each infant shall be held for bottle feeding until able to hold his or her own bottle. Bottles shall not be propped. Each child shall be held or placed in feeding chairs or other age-appropriate seating apparatus to be fed. The feeding chair or other seating apparatus shall be disassembled for cleaning purposes. (c) Infants shall not be served juice in a bottle without a prescription or written statement on file from a health care professional or licensed dietitian/nutritionist. (d) Each infant shall be served only bottles labeled with their individual name. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) In child care centers, potentially hazardous items, including power tools, nails, chemicals, propane stoves, lawn mowers, and gasoline or kerosene, whether or not intended for use by children, shall be stored in locked areas, removed from the premises, or otherwise inaccessible to children. (b) Firearms and ammunition are prohibited in a licensed child care center unless carried by a law enforcement officer. (c) When not in use, electrical outlets and power strips located in space used by children shall have safety outlets or be covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. (e) All electrical appliances shall be used only in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. For appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, irons, coffee pots, or curling irons, neither the appliance nor any cord shall be accessible to preschool-age children. (f) Electrical cords shall not be accessible to infants and toddlers. Extension cords, except as approved by the local fire inspector, shall not be used. Frayed or cracked electrical cords shall be replaced. (q) Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (12) Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. Staff reminders Any staff who still need on-going training have until 2/8/24 to get it completed. Place all training certificates in staff files. Ms. Moore needs to complete the health and safety trainings in MOODLE. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle”. The trainings are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Child care programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Also ncrlap.org has videos and other helpful information on the website. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@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 .0902 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/30/2024 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 1/30/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance unannounced visit. Ms. Taleisha, a lead teacher assisted me during the visit until Ms. Barbara Winters Owner/Director arrived. Your program currently operates with a Four-Star issued August 7h, 2019. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was one hundred percent (89%) as of 1/30/24. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on (1/30/24) and LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY INC was listed as current- active. A full assessment and walk-through of the facility was completed today. The following was observed: license posted, and restrictions followed, summary of law posted, attendance taken daily, emergency medical care plan posted, activity plans posted, daily schedule posted, menus posted, allergies posted, storage of hazardous materials and substances, CPR/First Aid and SIDS training completed as required, and Criminal Record Checks completed as required. I also observed children in the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in, free play in activity areas, art, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. I reviewed staff files during today’s visit. Some existing staff files were not reviewed during the visit because a Staff and Training Worksheet was e-mailed to the director prior to today’s visit. I received the Staff and Training Worksheet and reviewed it for compliance before today’s visit. A sampling of Children’s files (ten percent of enrollment) was reviewed today. The playground Inspection was conducted on 1/18/24. Emergency drill log: Shelter and lock down drills on 1/24/24. Fire drill: 1/8/24. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Eight violations were cited during today’s visit. However technical assistance was given to the provider to ensure compliance. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference.A current activity plan was posted during today's visit and activity plan did not have the date. The date was added during today's visit. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. Menus for all meals and snacks was not posted,dated or current. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child.Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages sent from a child's home were not dated and or labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) Two individual written feeding plans was not provided by a child's parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. THree written feeding plans did not include a signature by the staff when received by the center. .0902(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. An aersol dispenser was not stored in a locked room or cabinet in three classrooms. .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.Leftover diaper cream was not returned to the parent after it expired within 72 hours or discarded. .0803(12) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Plastic bags,were accessible to children under three years of age. .0604(q) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 2-13-24, 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. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant (202 Edinburgh Street) Stem, NC 27581 Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance SECTION .0900 - NUTRITION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .0901 GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS (b) When food is prepared by or provided by the center, menus for nutritious meals and snacks shall be planned at least one week in advance. At least one dated copy of the current week's menu shall be posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff when food is prepared or provided by the center. A variety of food shall be included in meals and snacks. Any substitution shall be of comparable food value and shall be recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. (g) Children's special diets or food allergies shall be posted where they can be seen in the food preparation area and in the child's eating area. (h) The food required by special diets for medical, religious, or cultural reasons, or parental preferences, may be provided by the center or may be brought to the center by the parents. If the diet is prescribed by a health care professional, a statement signed by the health care professional shall be on file at the center and written instructions shall be provided by the child's parent, health care professional, or a licensed dietitian/nutritionist. If the diet is not prescribed by a health care professional, written instructions shall be provided by the child's parent and shall be on file at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. (b) Each infant shall be held for bottle feeding until able to hold his or her own bottle. Bottles shall not be propped. Each child shall be held or placed in feeding chairs or other age-appropriate seating apparatus to be fed. The feeding chair or other seating apparatus shall be disassembled for cleaning purposes. (c) Infants shall not be served juice in a bottle without a prescription or written statement on file from a health care professional or licensed dietitian/nutritionist. (d) Each infant shall be served only bottles labeled with their individual name. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) In child care centers, potentially hazardous items, including power tools, nails, chemicals, propane stoves, lawn mowers, and gasoline or kerosene, whether or not intended for use by children, shall be stored in locked areas, removed from the premises, or otherwise inaccessible to children. (b) Firearms and ammunition are prohibited in a licensed child care center unless carried by a law enforcement officer. (c) When not in use, electrical outlets and power strips located in space used by children shall have safety outlets or be covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. (e) All electrical appliances shall be used only in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. For appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, irons, coffee pots, or curling irons, neither the appliance nor any cord shall be accessible to preschool-age children. (f) Electrical cords shall not be accessible to infants and toddlers. Extension cords, except as approved by the local fire inspector, shall not be used. Frayed or cracked electrical cords shall be replaced. (q) Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (12) Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. Staff reminders Any staff who still need on-going training have until 2/8/24 to get it completed. Place all training certificates in staff files. Ms. Moore needs to complete the health and safety trainings in MOODLE. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle”. The trainings are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Child care programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Also ncrlap.org has videos and other helpful information on the website. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@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 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/30/2024 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 1/30/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance unannounced visit. Ms. Taleisha, a lead teacher assisted me during the visit until Ms. Barbara Winters Owner/Director arrived. Your program currently operates with a Four-Star issued August 7h, 2019. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was one hundred percent (89%) as of 1/30/24. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on (1/30/24) and LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY INC was listed as current- active. A full assessment and walk-through of the facility was completed today. The following was observed: license posted, and restrictions followed, summary of law posted, attendance taken daily, emergency medical care plan posted, activity plans posted, daily schedule posted, menus posted, allergies posted, storage of hazardous materials and substances, CPR/First Aid and SIDS training completed as required, and Criminal Record Checks completed as required. I also observed children in the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in, free play in activity areas, art, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. I reviewed staff files during today’s visit. Some existing staff files were not reviewed during the visit because a Staff and Training Worksheet was e-mailed to the director prior to today’s visit. I received the Staff and Training Worksheet and reviewed it for compliance before today’s visit. A sampling of Children’s files (ten percent of enrollment) was reviewed today. The playground Inspection was conducted on 1/18/24. Emergency drill log: Shelter and lock down drills on 1/24/24. Fire drill: 1/8/24. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Eight violations were cited during today’s visit. However technical assistance was given to the provider to ensure compliance. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference.A current activity plan was posted during today's visit and activity plan did not have the date. The date was added during today's visit. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. Menus for all meals and snacks was not posted,dated or current. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child.Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages sent from a child's home were not dated and or labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) Two individual written feeding plans was not provided by a child's parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. THree written feeding plans did not include a signature by the staff when received by the center. .0902(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. An aersol dispenser was not stored in a locked room or cabinet in three classrooms. .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.Leftover diaper cream was not returned to the parent after it expired within 72 hours or discarded. .0803(12) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Plastic bags,were accessible to children under three years of age. .0604(q) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 2-13-24, 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. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant (202 Edinburgh Street) Stem, NC 27581 Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance SECTION .0900 - NUTRITION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .0901 GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS (b) When food is prepared by or provided by the center, menus for nutritious meals and snacks shall be planned at least one week in advance. At least one dated copy of the current week's menu shall be posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff when food is prepared or provided by the center. A variety of food shall be included in meals and snacks. Any substitution shall be of comparable food value and shall be recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. (g) Children's special diets or food allergies shall be posted where they can be seen in the food preparation area and in the child's eating area. (h) The food required by special diets for medical, religious, or cultural reasons, or parental preferences, may be provided by the center or may be brought to the center by the parents. If the diet is prescribed by a health care professional, a statement signed by the health care professional shall be on file at the center and written instructions shall be provided by the child's parent, health care professional, or a licensed dietitian/nutritionist. If the diet is not prescribed by a health care professional, written instructions shall be provided by the child's parent and shall be on file at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. (b) Each infant shall be held for bottle feeding until able to hold his or her own bottle. Bottles shall not be propped. Each child shall be held or placed in feeding chairs or other age-appropriate seating apparatus to be fed. The feeding chair or other seating apparatus shall be disassembled for cleaning purposes. (c) Infants shall not be served juice in a bottle without a prescription or written statement on file from a health care professional or licensed dietitian/nutritionist. (d) Each infant shall be served only bottles labeled with their individual name. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) In child care centers, potentially hazardous items, including power tools, nails, chemicals, propane stoves, lawn mowers, and gasoline or kerosene, whether or not intended for use by children, shall be stored in locked areas, removed from the premises, or otherwise inaccessible to children. (b) Firearms and ammunition are prohibited in a licensed child care center unless carried by a law enforcement officer. (c) When not in use, electrical outlets and power strips located in space used by children shall have safety outlets or be covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. (e) All electrical appliances shall be used only in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. For appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, irons, coffee pots, or curling irons, neither the appliance nor any cord shall be accessible to preschool-age children. (f) Electrical cords shall not be accessible to infants and toddlers. Extension cords, except as approved by the local fire inspector, shall not be used. Frayed or cracked electrical cords shall be replaced. (q) Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (12) Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. Staff reminders Any staff who still need on-going training have until 2/8/24 to get it completed. Place all training certificates in staff files. Ms. Moore needs to complete the health and safety trainings in MOODLE. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle”. The trainings are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Child care programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Also ncrlap.org has videos and other helpful information on the website. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@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 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/30/2024 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 1/30/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance unannounced visit. Ms. Taleisha, a lead teacher assisted me during the visit until Ms. Barbara Winters Owner/Director arrived. Your program currently operates with a Four-Star issued August 7h, 2019. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was one hundred percent (89%) as of 1/30/24. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on (1/30/24) and LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY INC was listed as current- active. A full assessment and walk-through of the facility was completed today. The following was observed: license posted, and restrictions followed, summary of law posted, attendance taken daily, emergency medical care plan posted, activity plans posted, daily schedule posted, menus posted, allergies posted, storage of hazardous materials and substances, CPR/First Aid and SIDS training completed as required, and Criminal Record Checks completed as required. I also observed children in the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in, free play in activity areas, art, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. I reviewed staff files during today’s visit. Some existing staff files were not reviewed during the visit because a Staff and Training Worksheet was e-mailed to the director prior to today’s visit. I received the Staff and Training Worksheet and reviewed it for compliance before today’s visit. A sampling of Children’s files (ten percent of enrollment) was reviewed today. The playground Inspection was conducted on 1/18/24. Emergency drill log: Shelter and lock down drills on 1/24/24. Fire drill: 1/8/24. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Eight violations were cited during today’s visit. However technical assistance was given to the provider to ensure compliance. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference.A current activity plan was posted during today's visit and activity plan did not have the date. The date was added during today's visit. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. Menus for all meals and snacks was not posted,dated or current. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child.Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages sent from a child's home were not dated and or labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) Two individual written feeding plans was not provided by a child's parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. THree written feeding plans did not include a signature by the staff when received by the center. .0902(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. An aersol dispenser was not stored in a locked room or cabinet in three classrooms. .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.Leftover diaper cream was not returned to the parent after it expired within 72 hours or discarded. .0803(12) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Plastic bags,were accessible to children under three years of age. .0604(q) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 2-13-24, 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. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant (202 Edinburgh Street) Stem, NC 27581 Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance SECTION .0900 - NUTRITION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .0901 GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS (b) When food is prepared by or provided by the center, menus for nutritious meals and snacks shall be planned at least one week in advance. At least one dated copy of the current week's menu shall be posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff when food is prepared or provided by the center. A variety of food shall be included in meals and snacks. Any substitution shall be of comparable food value and shall be recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. (g) Children's special diets or food allergies shall be posted where they can be seen in the food preparation area and in the child's eating area. (h) The food required by special diets for medical, religious, or cultural reasons, or parental preferences, may be provided by the center or may be brought to the center by the parents. If the diet is prescribed by a health care professional, a statement signed by the health care professional shall be on file at the center and written instructions shall be provided by the child's parent, health care professional, or a licensed dietitian/nutritionist. If the diet is not prescribed by a health care professional, written instructions shall be provided by the child's parent and shall be on file at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. (b) Each infant shall be held for bottle feeding until able to hold his or her own bottle. Bottles shall not be propped. Each child shall be held or placed in feeding chairs or other age-appropriate seating apparatus to be fed. The feeding chair or other seating apparatus shall be disassembled for cleaning purposes. (c) Infants shall not be served juice in a bottle without a prescription or written statement on file from a health care professional or licensed dietitian/nutritionist. (d) Each infant shall be served only bottles labeled with their individual name. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) In child care centers, potentially hazardous items, including power tools, nails, chemicals, propane stoves, lawn mowers, and gasoline or kerosene, whether or not intended for use by children, shall be stored in locked areas, removed from the premises, or otherwise inaccessible to children. (b) Firearms and ammunition are prohibited in a licensed child care center unless carried by a law enforcement officer. (c) When not in use, electrical outlets and power strips located in space used by children shall have safety outlets or be covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. (e) All electrical appliances shall be used only in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. For appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, irons, coffee pots, or curling irons, neither the appliance nor any cord shall be accessible to preschool-age children. (f) Electrical cords shall not be accessible to infants and toddlers. Extension cords, except as approved by the local fire inspector, shall not be used. Frayed or cracked electrical cords shall be replaced. (q) Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (12) Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. Staff reminders Any staff who still need on-going training have until 2/8/24 to get it completed. Place all training certificates in staff files. Ms. Moore needs to complete the health and safety trainings in MOODLE. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle”. The trainings are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Child care programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Also ncrlap.org has videos and other helpful information on the website. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@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 .0901 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/30/2024 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 1/30/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance unannounced visit. Ms. Taleisha, a lead teacher assisted me during the visit until Ms. Barbara Winters Owner/Director arrived. Your program currently operates with a Four-Star issued August 7h, 2019. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was one hundred percent (89%) as of 1/30/24. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on (1/30/24) and LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY INC was listed as current- active. A full assessment and walk-through of the facility was completed today. The following was observed: license posted, and restrictions followed, summary of law posted, attendance taken daily, emergency medical care plan posted, activity plans posted, daily schedule posted, menus posted, allergies posted, storage of hazardous materials and substances, CPR/First Aid and SIDS training completed as required, and Criminal Record Checks completed as required. I also observed children in the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in, free play in activity areas, art, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. I reviewed staff files during today’s visit. Some existing staff files were not reviewed during the visit because a Staff and Training Worksheet was e-mailed to the director prior to today’s visit. I received the Staff and Training Worksheet and reviewed it for compliance before today’s visit. A sampling of Children’s files (ten percent of enrollment) was reviewed today. The playground Inspection was conducted on 1/18/24. Emergency drill log: Shelter and lock down drills on 1/24/24. Fire drill: 1/8/24. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Eight violations were cited during today’s visit. However technical assistance was given to the provider to ensure compliance. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference.A current activity plan was posted during today's visit and activity plan did not have the date. The date was added during today's visit. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. Menus for all meals and snacks was not posted,dated or current. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child.Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages sent from a child's home were not dated and or labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) Two individual written feeding plans was not provided by a child's parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. THree written feeding plans did not include a signature by the staff when received by the center. .0902(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. An aersol dispenser was not stored in a locked room or cabinet in three classrooms. .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.Leftover diaper cream was not returned to the parent after it expired within 72 hours or discarded. .0803(12) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Plastic bags,were accessible to children under three years of age. .0604(q) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 2-13-24, 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. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant (202 Edinburgh Street) Stem, NC 27581 Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance SECTION .0900 - NUTRITION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .0901 GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS (b) When food is prepared by or provided by the center, menus for nutritious meals and snacks shall be planned at least one week in advance. At least one dated copy of the current week's menu shall be posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff when food is prepared or provided by the center. A variety of food shall be included in meals and snacks. Any substitution shall be of comparable food value and shall be recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. (g) Children's special diets or food allergies shall be posted where they can be seen in the food preparation area and in the child's eating area. (h) The food required by special diets for medical, religious, or cultural reasons, or parental preferences, may be provided by the center or may be brought to the center by the parents. If the diet is prescribed by a health care professional, a statement signed by the health care professional shall be on file at the center and written instructions shall be provided by the child's parent, health care professional, or a licensed dietitian/nutritionist. If the diet is not prescribed by a health care professional, written instructions shall be provided by the child's parent and shall be on file at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. (b) Each infant shall be held for bottle feeding until able to hold his or her own bottle. Bottles shall not be propped. Each child shall be held or placed in feeding chairs or other age-appropriate seating apparatus to be fed. The feeding chair or other seating apparatus shall be disassembled for cleaning purposes. (c) Infants shall not be served juice in a bottle without a prescription or written statement on file from a health care professional or licensed dietitian/nutritionist. (d) Each infant shall be served only bottles labeled with their individual name. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) In child care centers, potentially hazardous items, including power tools, nails, chemicals, propane stoves, lawn mowers, and gasoline or kerosene, whether or not intended for use by children, shall be stored in locked areas, removed from the premises, or otherwise inaccessible to children. (b) Firearms and ammunition are prohibited in a licensed child care center unless carried by a law enforcement officer. (c) When not in use, electrical outlets and power strips located in space used by children shall have safety outlets or be covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. (e) All electrical appliances shall be used only in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. For appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, irons, coffee pots, or curling irons, neither the appliance nor any cord shall be accessible to preschool-age children. (f) Electrical cords shall not be accessible to infants and toddlers. Extension cords, except as approved by the local fire inspector, shall not be used. Frayed or cracked electrical cords shall be replaced. (q) Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (12) Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. Staff reminders Any staff who still need on-going training have until 2/8/24 to get it completed. Place all training certificates in staff files. Ms. Moore needs to complete the health and safety trainings in MOODLE. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle”. The trainings are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Child care programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Also ncrlap.org has videos and other helpful information on the website. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@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 .0902 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/30/2024 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 1/30/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance unannounced visit. Ms. Taleisha, a lead teacher assisted me during the visit until Ms. Barbara Winters Owner/Director arrived. Your program currently operates with a Four-Star issued August 7h, 2019. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was one hundred percent (89%) as of 1/30/24. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on (1/30/24) and LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY INC was listed as current- active. A full assessment and walk-through of the facility was completed today. The following was observed: license posted, and restrictions followed, summary of law posted, attendance taken daily, emergency medical care plan posted, activity plans posted, daily schedule posted, menus posted, allergies posted, storage of hazardous materials and substances, CPR/First Aid and SIDS training completed as required, and Criminal Record Checks completed as required. I also observed children in the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in, free play in activity areas, art, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. I reviewed staff files during today’s visit. Some existing staff files were not reviewed during the visit because a Staff and Training Worksheet was e-mailed to the director prior to today’s visit. I received the Staff and Training Worksheet and reviewed it for compliance before today’s visit. A sampling of Children’s files (ten percent of enrollment) was reviewed today. The playground Inspection was conducted on 1/18/24. Emergency drill log: Shelter and lock down drills on 1/24/24. Fire drill: 1/8/24. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Eight violations were cited during today’s visit. However technical assistance was given to the provider to ensure compliance. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference.A current activity plan was posted during today's visit and activity plan did not have the date. The date was added during today's visit. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. Menus for all meals and snacks was not posted,dated or current. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child.Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages sent from a child's home were not dated and or labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) Two individual written feeding plans was not provided by a child's parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. THree written feeding plans did not include a signature by the staff when received by the center. .0902(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. An aersol dispenser was not stored in a locked room or cabinet in three classrooms. .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.Leftover diaper cream was not returned to the parent after it expired within 72 hours or discarded. .0803(12) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Plastic bags,were accessible to children under three years of age. .0604(q) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 2-13-24, 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. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant (202 Edinburgh Street) Stem, NC 27581 Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance SECTION .0900 - NUTRITION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .0901 GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS (b) When food is prepared by or provided by the center, menus for nutritious meals and snacks shall be planned at least one week in advance. At least one dated copy of the current week's menu shall be posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff when food is prepared or provided by the center. A variety of food shall be included in meals and snacks. Any substitution shall be of comparable food value and shall be recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. (g) Children's special diets or food allergies shall be posted where they can be seen in the food preparation area and in the child's eating area. (h) The food required by special diets for medical, religious, or cultural reasons, or parental preferences, may be provided by the center or may be brought to the center by the parents. If the diet is prescribed by a health care professional, a statement signed by the health care professional shall be on file at the center and written instructions shall be provided by the child's parent, health care professional, or a licensed dietitian/nutritionist. If the diet is not prescribed by a health care professional, written instructions shall be provided by the child's parent and shall be on file at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. (b) Each infant shall be held for bottle feeding until able to hold his or her own bottle. Bottles shall not be propped. Each child shall be held or placed in feeding chairs or other age-appropriate seating apparatus to be fed. The feeding chair or other seating apparatus shall be disassembled for cleaning purposes. (c) Infants shall not be served juice in a bottle without a prescription or written statement on file from a health care professional or licensed dietitian/nutritionist. (d) Each infant shall be served only bottles labeled with their individual name. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) In child care centers, potentially hazardous items, including power tools, nails, chemicals, propane stoves, lawn mowers, and gasoline or kerosene, whether or not intended for use by children, shall be stored in locked areas, removed from the premises, or otherwise inaccessible to children. (b) Firearms and ammunition are prohibited in a licensed child care center unless carried by a law enforcement officer. (c) When not in use, electrical outlets and power strips located in space used by children shall have safety outlets or be covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. (e) All electrical appliances shall be used only in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. For appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, irons, coffee pots, or curling irons, neither the appliance nor any cord shall be accessible to preschool-age children. (f) Electrical cords shall not be accessible to infants and toddlers. Extension cords, except as approved by the local fire inspector, shall not be used. Frayed or cracked electrical cords shall be replaced. (q) Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (12) Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. Staff reminders Any staff who still need on-going training have until 2/8/24 to get it completed. Place all training certificates in staff files. Ms. Moore needs to complete the health and safety trainings in MOODLE. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle”. The trainings are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Child care programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Also ncrlap.org has videos and other helpful information on the website. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@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

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/30/2024 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 1/30/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance unannounced visit. Ms. Taleisha, a lead teacher assisted me during the visit until Ms. Barbara Winters Owner/Director arrived. Your program currently operates with a Four-Star issued August 7h, 2019. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was one hundred percent (89%) as of 1/30/24. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on (1/30/24) and LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY INC was listed as current- active. A full assessment and walk-through of the facility was completed today. The following was observed: license posted, and restrictions followed, summary of law posted, attendance taken daily, emergency medical care plan posted, activity plans posted, daily schedule posted, menus posted, allergies posted, storage of hazardous materials and substances, CPR/First Aid and SIDS training completed as required, and Criminal Record Checks completed as required. I also observed children in the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in, free play in activity areas, art, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. I reviewed staff files during today’s visit. Some existing staff files were not reviewed during the visit because a Staff and Training Worksheet was e-mailed to the director prior to today’s visit. I received the Staff and Training Worksheet and reviewed it for compliance before today’s visit. A sampling of Children’s files (ten percent of enrollment) was reviewed today. The playground Inspection was conducted on 1/18/24. Emergency drill log: Shelter and lock down drills on 1/24/24. Fire drill: 1/8/24. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Eight violations were cited during today’s visit. However technical assistance was given to the provider to ensure compliance. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference.A current activity plan was posted during today's visit and activity plan did not have the date. The date was added during today's visit. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. Menus for all meals and snacks was not posted,dated or current. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child.Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages sent from a child's home were not dated and or labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) Two individual written feeding plans was not provided by a child's parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. THree written feeding plans did not include a signature by the staff when received by the center. .0902(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. An aersol dispenser was not stored in a locked room or cabinet in three classrooms. .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.Leftover diaper cream was not returned to the parent after it expired within 72 hours or discarded. .0803(12) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Plastic bags,were accessible to children under three years of age. .0604(q) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 2-13-24, 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. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant (202 Edinburgh Street) Stem, NC 27581 Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance SECTION .0900 - NUTRITION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .0901 GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS (b) When food is prepared by or provided by the center, menus for nutritious meals and snacks shall be planned at least one week in advance. At least one dated copy of the current week's menu shall be posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff when food is prepared or provided by the center. A variety of food shall be included in meals and snacks. Any substitution shall be of comparable food value and shall be recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. (g) Children's special diets or food allergies shall be posted where they can be seen in the food preparation area and in the child's eating area. (h) The food required by special diets for medical, religious, or cultural reasons, or parental preferences, may be provided by the center or may be brought to the center by the parents. If the diet is prescribed by a health care professional, a statement signed by the health care professional shall be on file at the center and written instructions shall be provided by the child's parent, health care professional, or a licensed dietitian/nutritionist. If the diet is not prescribed by a health care professional, written instructions shall be provided by the child's parent and shall be on file at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. (b) Each infant shall be held for bottle feeding until able to hold his or her own bottle. Bottles shall not be propped. Each child shall be held or placed in feeding chairs or other age-appropriate seating apparatus to be fed. The feeding chair or other seating apparatus shall be disassembled for cleaning purposes. (c) Infants shall not be served juice in a bottle without a prescription or written statement on file from a health care professional or licensed dietitian/nutritionist. (d) Each infant shall be served only bottles labeled with their individual name. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) In child care centers, potentially hazardous items, including power tools, nails, chemicals, propane stoves, lawn mowers, and gasoline or kerosene, whether or not intended for use by children, shall be stored in locked areas, removed from the premises, or otherwise inaccessible to children. (b) Firearms and ammunition are prohibited in a licensed child care center unless carried by a law enforcement officer. (c) When not in use, electrical outlets and power strips located in space used by children shall have safety outlets or be covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. (e) All electrical appliances shall be used only in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. For appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, irons, coffee pots, or curling irons, neither the appliance nor any cord shall be accessible to preschool-age children. (f) Electrical cords shall not be accessible to infants and toddlers. Extension cords, except as approved by the local fire inspector, shall not be used. Frayed or cracked electrical cords shall be replaced. (q) Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (12) Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. Staff reminders Any staff who still need on-going training have until 2/8/24 to get it completed. Place all training certificates in staff files. Ms. Moore needs to complete the health and safety trainings in MOODLE. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle”. The trainings are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Child care programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Also ncrlap.org has videos and other helpful information on the website. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 1/30/2024 Number Present: 42 Completed Date: 1/30/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance unannounced visit. Ms. Taleisha, a lead teacher assisted me during the visit until Ms. Barbara Winters Owner/Director arrived. Your program currently operates with a Four-Star issued August 7h, 2019. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was one hundred percent (89%) as of 1/30/24. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on (1/30/24) and LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY INC was listed as current- active. A full assessment and walk-through of the facility was completed today. The following was observed: license posted, and restrictions followed, summary of law posted, attendance taken daily, emergency medical care plan posted, activity plans posted, daily schedule posted, menus posted, allergies posted, storage of hazardous materials and substances, CPR/First Aid and SIDS training completed as required, and Criminal Record Checks completed as required. I also observed children in the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in, free play in activity areas, art, transitions, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. I reviewed staff files during today’s visit. Some existing staff files were not reviewed during the visit because a Staff and Training Worksheet was e-mailed to the director prior to today’s visit. I received the Staff and Training Worksheet and reviewed it for compliance before today’s visit. A sampling of Children’s files (ten percent of enrollment) was reviewed today. The playground Inspection was conducted on 1/18/24. Emergency drill log: Shelter and lock down drills on 1/24/24. Fire drill: 1/8/24. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Eight violations were cited during today’s visit. However technical assistance was given to the provider to ensure compliance. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference.A current activity plan was posted during today's visit and activity plan did not have the date. The date was added during today's visit. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. Menus for all meals and snacks was not posted,dated or current. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 533 Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages including sippy cups, sent from child's home were not fully prepared, dated, and labeled for the appropriate child.Human milk, formula and other bottled beverages sent from a child's home were not dated and or labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2804(d) 540 An individual written feeding plan was not provided by child's parent or health care provider or was not followed and posted. (omit posting for centers located in a residence) Two individual written feeding plans was not provided by a child's parent. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. THree written feeding plans did not include a signature by the staff when received by the center. .0902(a) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. An aersol dispenser was not stored in a locked room or cabinet in three classrooms. .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.Leftover diaper cream was not returned to the parent after it expired within 72 hours or discarded. .0803(12) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. Plastic bags,were accessible to children under three years of age. .0604(q) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 2-13-24, 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. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant (202 Edinburgh Street) Stem, NC 27581 Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance SECTION .0900 - NUTRITION STANDARDS 10A NCAC 09 .0901 GENERAL NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS (b) When food is prepared by or provided by the center, menus for nutritious meals and snacks shall be planned at least one week in advance. At least one dated copy of the current week's menu shall be posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff when food is prepared or provided by the center. A variety of food shall be included in meals and snacks. Any substitution shall be of comparable food value and shall be recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. (g) Children's special diets or food allergies shall be posted where they can be seen in the food preparation area and in the child's eating area. (h) The food required by special diets for medical, religious, or cultural reasons, or parental preferences, may be provided by the center or may be brought to the center by the parents. If the diet is prescribed by a health care professional, a statement signed by the health care professional shall be on file at the center and written instructions shall be provided by the child's parent, health care professional, or a licensed dietitian/nutritionist. If the diet is not prescribed by a health care professional, written instructions shall be provided by the child's parent and shall be on file at the center. 10A NCAC 09 .0902 REQUIREMENTS FOR INFANTS (a) The parent or health care provider of each child under 15 months of age shall provide the center an individual written feeding plan for the child. This plan shall be followed at the center. This plan shall include the child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. Each infant's plan shall be modified in consultation with the child's parent or health care provider to reflect changes in the child's needs as he or she develops. The feeding instructions for each infant shall include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. (b) Each infant shall be held for bottle feeding until able to hold his or her own bottle. Bottles shall not be propped. Each child shall be held or placed in feeding chairs or other age-appropriate seating apparatus to be fed. The feeding chair or other seating apparatus shall be disassembled for cleaning purposes. (c) Infants shall not be served juice in a bottle without a prescription or written statement on file from a health care professional or licensed dietitian/nutritionist. (d) Each infant shall be served only bottles labeled with their individual name. 10A NCAC 09 .0604 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS (a) In child care centers, potentially hazardous items, including power tools, nails, chemicals, propane stoves, lawn mowers, and gasoline or kerosene, whether or not intended for use by children, shall be stored in locked areas, removed from the premises, or otherwise inaccessible to children. (b) Firearms and ammunition are prohibited in a licensed child care center unless carried by a law enforcement officer. (c) When not in use, electrical outlets and power strips located in space used by children shall have safety outlets or be covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. (e) All electrical appliances shall be used only in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. For appliances with heating elements, such as bottle warmers, crock pots, irons, coffee pots, or curling irons, neither the appliance nor any cord shall be accessible to preschool-age children. (f) Electrical cords shall not be accessible to infants and toddlers. Extension cords, except as approved by the local fire inspector, shall not be used. Frayed or cracked electrical cords shall be replaced. (q) Plastic bags, toys, toy parts small enough to be swallowed, and materials that can be torn apart, such as foam rubber and styrofoam, shall not be accessible to children under three years of age. However, styrofoam plates and larger pieces of foam rubber may be used for supervised art activities and styrofoam plates may be used for food service. Jump ropes and rubber bands shall not be accessible to children under five years of age without adult supervision. Balloons shall be prohibited for children of all ages. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS The following provisions apply to the administration of medication in child care centers: (12) Any medication remaining after the course of treatment is completed, after authorization is withdrawn or after authorization has expired shall be returned to the child's parents. Any medication the parent fails to retrieve within 72 hours of completion of treatment, or withdrawal of authorization, shall be discarded. Staff reminders Any staff who still need on-going training have until 2/8/24 to get it completed. Place all training certificates in staff files. Ms. Moore needs to complete the health and safety trainings in MOODLE. RESOURCES The Health and Safety Trainings are offered on the DCDEE Moodle format. On the Division’s website look under the “SERVICES” tab for “DCDEE Moodle”. The trainings are free, and participants will receive training certificates when completed. Child care programs can order free posters from the NC Child Care Health and Safety Resource Center at https://healthychildcare.unc.edu/. Also ncrlap.org has videos and other helpful information on the website. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Thank you for your cooperation during today’s visit. If you need assistance, I can be reached at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or by phone at 919-939-7519. My supervisor Kaye Adkins can be reached at kaye.adkins@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 .0608 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/12/2023 Number Present: 39 Completed Date: 9/12/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable childcare requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Ms. Winters director assisted me with the visit. Currently this facility operates with a four-star license that was issued 8/7/19. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 91% percent as of 9/12/23. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions, outdoor time, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Fire (1/24/23) and sanitation (9/7/23) inspections remain current. I checked two new staff members files during today’s visit. The last fire drill conducted was 8/11/23. The shelter and lockdown drills were conducted on 7/17/23. The last outdoor inspection conducted was 8/7/23. Six violations were cited during today’s visit; the provider did ask questions to ensure staying in compliance and technical assistance was provided. Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below.Refrigerator in the infant classroom did not maintain a temperture of 45 degrees f, it was 60 degrees f during today's visit. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional.Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container. .0803(2)(a) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months.A child care provider did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months.On or before the first day of work a staff member did not provide results indicating that were free of active tb and/ or tb test screening . .0701(a) 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.One staff member did not have a signed ackowledgement of prevention to shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma policy on file prior to providing care to children. .0608(d)(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. A staff member did not complete the recognizing and responding to suspicions of child maltreatment training with in 90 days of employment. .1102(g) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 9-26-23, 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. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant (202 Edinburgh Street) Stem, NC 27581 Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance 15A NCAC 18A .2806 FOOD STORAGE AND PROTECTION (h) Refrigerated storage: (1) Refrigeration equipment shall be provided in such number and of such capacity to assure the maintenance of potentially hazardous food at required temperatures during storage. Each refrigerator shall be provided with a numerically scaled indicating thermometer, accurate to ±3°F (± 1.5°C) located to measure the air temperature in the warmest part of the refrigerator and located to be easily readable. Recording thermometers, accurate to ±3°F (±1.5°C), may be used in lieu of indicating thermometers. (2) Potentially hazardous food requiring refrigeration after preparation shall be cooled to an internal temperature of 45°F (7°C), or below. Cooling of potentially hazardous foods shall be initiated upon completion of preparation or hot storage. Methods such as pouring into pans, agitation, and chilling with ice or water circulation external to the food containers shall be used to cool potentially hazardous food. Potentially hazardous food to be transported cold shall be prechilled and held at a temperature of 45°F (7°C) or below. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (2) Prescribed medications: (a) shall be stored in the original containers in which they were dispensed with the pharmacy labels. 10A NCAC 09 .0701 HEALTH STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS, SUBSTITUTE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND UNCOMPENSATED PROVIDERS Medical Report A statement signed by a health care professional that indicates that the person is emotionally and physically fit to care for children. Prior to employment. When submitted, the medical statement shall not be older than 12 months. Tuberculin (TB) Test or Screening The results indicating the individual is free of active tuberculosis shall be obtained within the 12 months prior to the date of employment. On or before first day of work. 10A NCAC 09 .0608 PREVENTION OF SHAKEN BABY SYNDROME AND ABUSIVE HEAD TRAUMA (d) Within 30 days of adopting the policy, the child care center shall review the policy with existing staff members who provide care for children up to five years of age. Each child care center shall review the policy with new staff members prior to the individual providing care to children. The acknowledgement of this review shall contain: (1) the individual’s name; (2) the date the center’s policy was given and explained to the individual; (3) the individual’s signature; and (4) the date the individual signed the acknowledgment. The child care center shall retain the acknowledgement in the staff member’s file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS maintained in the staff member's file in the center. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at 919-939-7519 or via email at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Kaye Adkins at kaye.adkins@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 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/12/2023 Number Present: 39 Completed Date: 9/12/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable childcare requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Ms. Winters director assisted me with the visit. Currently this facility operates with a four-star license that was issued 8/7/19. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 91% percent as of 9/12/23. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions, outdoor time, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Fire (1/24/23) and sanitation (9/7/23) inspections remain current. I checked two new staff members files during today’s visit. The last fire drill conducted was 8/11/23. The shelter and lockdown drills were conducted on 7/17/23. The last outdoor inspection conducted was 8/7/23. Six violations were cited during today’s visit; the provider did ask questions to ensure staying in compliance and technical assistance was provided. Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below.Refrigerator in the infant classroom did not maintain a temperture of 45 degrees f, it was 60 degrees f during today's visit. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional.Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container. .0803(2)(a) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months.A child care provider did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months.On or before the first day of work a staff member did not provide results indicating that were free of active tb and/ or tb test screening . .0701(a) 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.One staff member did not have a signed ackowledgement of prevention to shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma policy on file prior to providing care to children. .0608(d)(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. A staff member did not complete the recognizing and responding to suspicions of child maltreatment training with in 90 days of employment. .1102(g) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 9-26-23, 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. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant (202 Edinburgh Street) Stem, NC 27581 Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance 15A NCAC 18A .2806 FOOD STORAGE AND PROTECTION (h) Refrigerated storage: (1) Refrigeration equipment shall be provided in such number and of such capacity to assure the maintenance of potentially hazardous food at required temperatures during storage. Each refrigerator shall be provided with a numerically scaled indicating thermometer, accurate to ±3°F (± 1.5°C) located to measure the air temperature in the warmest part of the refrigerator and located to be easily readable. Recording thermometers, accurate to ±3°F (±1.5°C), may be used in lieu of indicating thermometers. (2) Potentially hazardous food requiring refrigeration after preparation shall be cooled to an internal temperature of 45°F (7°C), or below. Cooling of potentially hazardous foods shall be initiated upon completion of preparation or hot storage. Methods such as pouring into pans, agitation, and chilling with ice or water circulation external to the food containers shall be used to cool potentially hazardous food. Potentially hazardous food to be transported cold shall be prechilled and held at a temperature of 45°F (7°C) or below. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (2) Prescribed medications: (a) shall be stored in the original containers in which they were dispensed with the pharmacy labels. 10A NCAC 09 .0701 HEALTH STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS, SUBSTITUTE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND UNCOMPENSATED PROVIDERS Medical Report A statement signed by a health care professional that indicates that the person is emotionally and physically fit to care for children. Prior to employment. When submitted, the medical statement shall not be older than 12 months. Tuberculin (TB) Test or Screening The results indicating the individual is free of active tuberculosis shall be obtained within the 12 months prior to the date of employment. On or before first day of work. 10A NCAC 09 .0608 PREVENTION OF SHAKEN BABY SYNDROME AND ABUSIVE HEAD TRAUMA (d) Within 30 days of adopting the policy, the child care center shall review the policy with existing staff members who provide care for children up to five years of age. Each child care center shall review the policy with new staff members prior to the individual providing care to children. The acknowledgement of this review shall contain: (1) the individual’s name; (2) the date the center’s policy was given and explained to the individual; (3) the individual’s signature; and (4) the date the individual signed the acknowledgment. The child care center shall retain the acknowledgement in the staff member’s file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS maintained in the staff member's file in the center. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at 919-939-7519 or via email at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Kaye Adkins at kaye.adkins@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 .0803 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/12/2023 Number Present: 39 Completed Date: 9/12/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable childcare requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Ms. Winters director assisted me with the visit. Currently this facility operates with a four-star license that was issued 8/7/19. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 91% percent as of 9/12/23. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions, outdoor time, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Fire (1/24/23) and sanitation (9/7/23) inspections remain current. I checked two new staff members files during today’s visit. The last fire drill conducted was 8/11/23. The shelter and lockdown drills were conducted on 7/17/23. The last outdoor inspection conducted was 8/7/23. Six violations were cited during today’s visit; the provider did ask questions to ensure staying in compliance and technical assistance was provided. Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below.Refrigerator in the infant classroom did not maintain a temperture of 45 degrees f, it was 60 degrees f during today's visit. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional.Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container. .0803(2)(a) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months.A child care provider did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months.On or before the first day of work a staff member did not provide results indicating that were free of active tb and/ or tb test screening . .0701(a) 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.One staff member did not have a signed ackowledgement of prevention to shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma policy on file prior to providing care to children. .0608(d)(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. A staff member did not complete the recognizing and responding to suspicions of child maltreatment training with in 90 days of employment. .1102(g) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 9-26-23, 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. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant (202 Edinburgh Street) Stem, NC 27581 Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance 15A NCAC 18A .2806 FOOD STORAGE AND PROTECTION (h) Refrigerated storage: (1) Refrigeration equipment shall be provided in such number and of such capacity to assure the maintenance of potentially hazardous food at required temperatures during storage. Each refrigerator shall be provided with a numerically scaled indicating thermometer, accurate to ±3°F (± 1.5°C) located to measure the air temperature in the warmest part of the refrigerator and located to be easily readable. Recording thermometers, accurate to ±3°F (±1.5°C), may be used in lieu of indicating thermometers. (2) Potentially hazardous food requiring refrigeration after preparation shall be cooled to an internal temperature of 45°F (7°C), or below. Cooling of potentially hazardous foods shall be initiated upon completion of preparation or hot storage. Methods such as pouring into pans, agitation, and chilling with ice or water circulation external to the food containers shall be used to cool potentially hazardous food. Potentially hazardous food to be transported cold shall be prechilled and held at a temperature of 45°F (7°C) or below. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (2) Prescribed medications: (a) shall be stored in the original containers in which they were dispensed with the pharmacy labels. 10A NCAC 09 .0701 HEALTH STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS, SUBSTITUTE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND UNCOMPENSATED PROVIDERS Medical Report A statement signed by a health care professional that indicates that the person is emotionally and physically fit to care for children. Prior to employment. When submitted, the medical statement shall not be older than 12 months. Tuberculin (TB) Test or Screening The results indicating the individual is free of active tuberculosis shall be obtained within the 12 months prior to the date of employment. On or before first day of work. 10A NCAC 09 .0608 PREVENTION OF SHAKEN BABY SYNDROME AND ABUSIVE HEAD TRAUMA (d) Within 30 days of adopting the policy, the child care center shall review the policy with existing staff members who provide care for children up to five years of age. Each child care center shall review the policy with new staff members prior to the individual providing care to children. The acknowledgement of this review shall contain: (1) the individual’s name; (2) the date the center’s policy was given and explained to the individual; (3) the individual’s signature; and (4) the date the individual signed the acknowledgment. The child care center shall retain the acknowledgement in the staff member’s file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS maintained in the staff member's file in the center. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at 919-939-7519 or via email at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Kaye Adkins at kaye.adkins@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 .1102 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/12/2023 Number Present: 39 Completed Date: 9/12/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable childcare requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Ms. Winters director assisted me with the visit. Currently this facility operates with a four-star license that was issued 8/7/19. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 91% percent as of 9/12/23. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions, outdoor time, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Fire (1/24/23) and sanitation (9/7/23) inspections remain current. I checked two new staff members files during today’s visit. The last fire drill conducted was 8/11/23. The shelter and lockdown drills were conducted on 7/17/23. The last outdoor inspection conducted was 8/7/23. Six violations were cited during today’s visit; the provider did ask questions to ensure staying in compliance and technical assistance was provided. Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below.Refrigerator in the infant classroom did not maintain a temperture of 45 degrees f, it was 60 degrees f during today's visit. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional.Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container. .0803(2)(a) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months.A child care provider did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months.On or before the first day of work a staff member did not provide results indicating that were free of active tb and/ or tb test screening . .0701(a) 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.One staff member did not have a signed ackowledgement of prevention to shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma policy on file prior to providing care to children. .0608(d)(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. A staff member did not complete the recognizing and responding to suspicions of child maltreatment training with in 90 days of employment. .1102(g) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 9-26-23, 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. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant (202 Edinburgh Street) Stem, NC 27581 Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance 15A NCAC 18A .2806 FOOD STORAGE AND PROTECTION (h) Refrigerated storage: (1) Refrigeration equipment shall be provided in such number and of such capacity to assure the maintenance of potentially hazardous food at required temperatures during storage. Each refrigerator shall be provided with a numerically scaled indicating thermometer, accurate to ±3°F (± 1.5°C) located to measure the air temperature in the warmest part of the refrigerator and located to be easily readable. Recording thermometers, accurate to ±3°F (±1.5°C), may be used in lieu of indicating thermometers. (2) Potentially hazardous food requiring refrigeration after preparation shall be cooled to an internal temperature of 45°F (7°C), or below. Cooling of potentially hazardous foods shall be initiated upon completion of preparation or hot storage. Methods such as pouring into pans, agitation, and chilling with ice or water circulation external to the food containers shall be used to cool potentially hazardous food. Potentially hazardous food to be transported cold shall be prechilled and held at a temperature of 45°F (7°C) or below. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (2) Prescribed medications: (a) shall be stored in the original containers in which they were dispensed with the pharmacy labels. 10A NCAC 09 .0701 HEALTH STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS, SUBSTITUTE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND UNCOMPENSATED PROVIDERS Medical Report A statement signed by a health care professional that indicates that the person is emotionally and physically fit to care for children. Prior to employment. When submitted, the medical statement shall not be older than 12 months. Tuberculin (TB) Test or Screening The results indicating the individual is free of active tuberculosis shall be obtained within the 12 months prior to the date of employment. On or before first day of work. 10A NCAC 09 .0608 PREVENTION OF SHAKEN BABY SYNDROME AND ABUSIVE HEAD TRAUMA (d) Within 30 days of adopting the policy, the child care center shall review the policy with existing staff members who provide care for children up to five years of age. Each child care center shall review the policy with new staff members prior to the individual providing care to children. The acknowledgement of this review shall contain: (1) the individual’s name; (2) the date the center’s policy was given and explained to the individual; (3) the individual’s signature; and (4) the date the individual signed the acknowledgment. The child care center shall retain the acknowledgement in the staff member’s file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS maintained in the staff member's file in the center. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at 919-939-7519 or via email at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Kaye Adkins at kaye.adkins@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 9/12/2023 Number Present: 39 Completed Date: 9/12/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 150 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable childcare requirements for a routine unannounced visit. You, Ms. Winters director assisted me with the visit. Currently this facility operates with a four-star license that was issued 8/7/19. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was 91% percent as of 9/12/23. A walk-through of the facility was completed today, all indoor and outdoor areas were monitored. I observed children in the indoor and outdoor learning environment and found supervision and staff/child ratios to be in compliance. Children throughout the facility were participating in group time, free play in activity areas, transitions, outdoor time, and personal care routines. The caregivers were interacting and meeting the developmental needs for each of the children. Fire (1/24/23) and sanitation (9/7/23) inspections remain current. I checked two new staff members files during today’s visit. The last fire drill conducted was 8/11/23. The shelter and lockdown drills were conducted on 7/17/23. The last outdoor inspection conducted was 8/7/23. Six violations were cited during today’s visit; the provider did ask questions to ensure staying in compliance and technical assistance was provided. Violation Number Comment Rule 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below.Refrigerator in the infant classroom did not maintain a temperture of 45 degrees f, it was 60 degrees f during today's visit. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 844 Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container or accompanied by signed and dated written instructions from prescribing physician or health care professional.Prescribed medicine was not in original labeled container. .0803(2)(a) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months.A child care provider did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months.On or before the first day of work a staff member did not provide results indicating that were free of active tb and/ or tb test screening . .0701(a) 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.One staff member did not have a signed ackowledgement of prevention to shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma policy on file prior to providing care to children. .0608(d)(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. A staff member did not complete the recognizing and responding to suspicions of child maltreatment training with in 90 days of employment. .1102(g) The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 9-26-23, 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. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant (202 Edinburgh Street) Stem, NC 27581 Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance 15A NCAC 18A .2806 FOOD STORAGE AND PROTECTION (h) Refrigerated storage: (1) Refrigeration equipment shall be provided in such number and of such capacity to assure the maintenance of potentially hazardous food at required temperatures during storage. Each refrigerator shall be provided with a numerically scaled indicating thermometer, accurate to ±3°F (± 1.5°C) located to measure the air temperature in the warmest part of the refrigerator and located to be easily readable. Recording thermometers, accurate to ±3°F (±1.5°C), may be used in lieu of indicating thermometers. (2) Potentially hazardous food requiring refrigeration after preparation shall be cooled to an internal temperature of 45°F (7°C), or below. Cooling of potentially hazardous foods shall be initiated upon completion of preparation or hot storage. Methods such as pouring into pans, agitation, and chilling with ice or water circulation external to the food containers shall be used to cool potentially hazardous food. Potentially hazardous food to be transported cold shall be prechilled and held at a temperature of 45°F (7°C) or below. 10A NCAC 09 .0803 ADMINISTERING MEDICATION IN CHILD CARE CENTERS (2) Prescribed medications: (a) shall be stored in the original containers in which they were dispensed with the pharmacy labels. 10A NCAC 09 .0701 HEALTH STANDARDS FOR CHILD CARE PROVIDERS, SUBSTITUTE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND UNCOMPENSATED PROVIDERS Medical Report A statement signed by a health care professional that indicates that the person is emotionally and physically fit to care for children. Prior to employment. When submitted, the medical statement shall not be older than 12 months. Tuberculin (TB) Test or Screening The results indicating the individual is free of active tuberculosis shall be obtained within the 12 months prior to the date of employment. On or before first day of work. 10A NCAC 09 .0608 PREVENTION OF SHAKEN BABY SYNDROME AND ABUSIVE HEAD TRAUMA (d) Within 30 days of adopting the policy, the child care center shall review the policy with existing staff members who provide care for children up to five years of age. Each child care center shall review the policy with new staff members prior to the individual providing care to children. The acknowledgement of this review shall contain: (1) the individual’s name; (2) the date the center’s policy was given and explained to the individual; (3) the individual’s signature; and (4) the date the individual signed the acknowledgment. The child care center shall retain the acknowledgement in the staff member’s file. 10A NCAC 09 .1102 HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS maintained in the staff member's file in the center. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at 919-939-7519 or via email at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Kaye Adkins at kaye.adkins@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE EXPLORERS ACADEMY Facility ID: 39000168 Consultant: GILETTE PARKER Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0723-074L Visit Date: 7/19/2023 Number Present: 41 Completed Date: 7/19/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 135 Time In: 10:45 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to investigate allegations of non-compliance with the NC Child Care Licensing Requirements received by the agency on 7-17-23. When I arrived at the facility, I spoke with Ms. Taleisha lead teacher and I informed her of the purpose of my visit, and she then informed me that the director was on her way. The Director Mrs. Winter’s arrived shortly after, and I explained to her the purpose of today’s visit. Limited monitoring of childcare requirements occurred during today’s visit. I monitored supervision, staff/child ratio, adequate /approved space, license posted and restrictions, health, and sanitation. I did not observe any violations during today's visit. During today’s visit we discussed the allegation, and the Director was given an opportunity to provide information surrounding the allegation. Allegation #1: There is a concern related to health and sanitation. Cockroaches have been observed crawling on kitchen cabinets, countertops, and in classrooms. Interviews: Staff members stated that they have seen live roaches and dead roaches in the classrooms, and kitchen. Staff members did say that traps have been put out to try and help with the roach problem. Several staff members stated that they have not seen any pest control companies coming into the facility to control the problem. The director/owner stated that she has seen live and dead roaches in the facility. The director stated that she has bought traps and bait traps, boric acid tablets and pilot 10. The director stated that she placed traps around the facility and in the classrooms, kitchen, and cabinets and sprayed after hours. The director informed me that a few months she ended her contract with her current pest control company of 18 years because she was still seeing traces of roaches. The director also stated that she has tried to control the situation herself by putting out traps and spraying Raid and wiping classrooms and counters down with lime and lemon essential oils mixed with water after hours around the facility to help with the roach issue. The director stated that the staff hasn’t seen pest control come out because they come out after hours. The director is in the process of finding a new pest control company to come out. In the meantime, she will continue to control the situation herself by spraying and sitting out traps. The director will send me the documentation once she gets a new contract with a pest control company. The director stated she has done everything she knows to try and control the roach situation. Observation: During my observation I did observe live roaches in the infant classroom cabinet,crawling on the wall in lobby, break room and some dead roaches in the building on the floors. I also observed roach traps in the cabinets. I observed documentation that director has included in her parent handbook regarding not bring outside food and bags into the facility. I did observe receipts from the pest control company showing that they have been out in the past and the last visit was April 1st, 2023. Additional Information The facility hasn’t had sanitation inspection since 2/2/22. On 6/3023 I emailed Peter lambert and contacted Willie Sturgess from environmental health. Mr. Sturgess informed that they hadn’t done a visit to little explorers yet but would reach out to the facility soon and do an inspection. Ms. Winter also informed me that she has also tried reaching out the environmental health and she hasn’t heard from them at all. As of 7/19/23 an sanitation inspection still hasn’t been made. CONCLUSION: Based on information received from interviewed staff and my observations, the finding regarding this allegation is Substantiated. One violation was cited during today’s visit; the provider did ask questions about the topics below to ensure the facility stays in compliance. Violation Number Comment Rule 9995 A violation was found for which there is no item number.Effective measures were not taken to keep uncontained insects, rodents, and other vermin out of the child care center to prevent their breeding or presence on the premises. There were live and dead roaches in the infant room cabinet,break room and lobby. This is a violation of requirement 15A NCAC 18A .2831 (b). The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 8-2-23, 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. Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Gilette Parker, Child Care Consultant (202 Edinburgh Street) Stem, NC 27581 Gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov If you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address registered with the DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance 15A NCAC 18A .2831 ANIMAL AND VERMIN CONTROL (a) Unrestrained animals, except those used in supervised activities or pet therapy programs, shall not be allowed in a child care center, including the outdoor learning environment. When animals are on the premises, copies of vaccination records required by North Carolina law and local ordinances shall be available for review. Any animals kept as pets shall be examined by a veterinarian to determine that they are free from vermin, such as mites, lice, fleas, and ticks, and pathogens that could adversely affect human health. Turtles, iguanas, frogs, salamanders, and other reptiles or amphibians are not allowed to be kept as pets on the premises. Animals shall not be allowed in or kept at the entrances to food preparation areas. Animal cages shall be kept clean and waste materials shall be bagged, sealed, and immediately disposed of in the exterior garbage area in a covered container. Animals belonging to child care owners, employees, volunteers, visitors, and children shall not be allowed in child care centers or on the premises unless the above requirements are met. (b) Effective measures shall be taken to keep uncontained insects, rodents, and other vermin out of the child care centers and to prevent their breeding or presence on the premises. Traps shall only be placed in areas inaccessible to children. (c) All openings to the outer air shall be protected against the entrance of flying insects. In food preparation areas, only fly traps, pyrethrin-based insecticides or a fly swatter shall be used for extermination of flying insects. Products shall be used only in accordance with directions and cautions appearing on their labels. Insecticides shall not come in contact with raw or cooked food, utensils, or equipment used in food preparation and serving, or with any other food-contact surface. (d) Only those pesticides which have been registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services shall be used. Pesticides shall be used in accordance with the directions on the label and shall be stored in a locked storage room or cabinet separate from foods and medications. Pesticides shall not be applied or used when children are present in the area. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/. Contact me at 919-939-7519 or via email at gilette.parker@dhhs.nc.gov or my supervisor Kaye Adkins at kaye.adkins@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