10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: KESHIA HAYWARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/19/2026 Number Present: 24 Completed Date: 2/19/2026 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 200 Time In: 08:25 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. V. Brown, Legal Designee/Administrative Assistant, assisted me with the visit. The Administrator/Owner was not present due to illness; however, I did speak with her over the phone. Your program operates with a four-star license, issued December 12, 2022, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space) and 1 quality point for the administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care administration work experience in a licensed program. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on March 28, 2025. The sanitation inspection was completed December 10, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on July 21, 2025, 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 ninety eight percent as of February 19, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on February 19, 2026, and EduCare Learning Center Inc. was listed as current- active. I visited the indoor and outdoor spaces used by children. Children enrolled in space #2 were participating in free choice play developmentally age-appropriate material/toys. Children in Space #4 were on the floor interacting with caregivers and playing with trucks/animals. Children in Space # 5 were engaged in morning review and interacting with the caregiver. All classes were observed in outdoor play. Proper hand-washing techniques and diaper changing procedures were observed. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken nuggets, collards, peaches, bread, and milk. The following violations were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The plastic covering over the chains attached to the swings on the preschool play was peeling and the chains were rusted underneath. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(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. Febreze spray in aerosol dispensed can were observed in and unlocked closet between Spaces #4 and 5. Also, an aerosol can of air Freshener was in an unlocked cabinet above the sink in Space #2. .2820(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 5, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Keshia Hayward, Child Care Consultant PO Box 13 Ahoskie, NC 27910 keshia.hayward@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 FACILITY PROFILE INFORMATION: You verified the phone number, email address and mailing address listed on the facility profile are correct. If changes in your facility’s information occur in the future, contact me at 252-214-2709 or email keshia.hayward@dhhs.nc.gov to discuss the changes and ensure accurate information is updated in our system. QRIS CONVERSTATION: During the visit, I spoke with you via telephone to inquire about discussion of the QRIS Pathway to the Stars process. You stated that you had already reviewed and received the information with another consultant during a visit at your other location. You shared that you did not need to review the information again and planned to proceed with Pathway #1 for this program. You further stated that you need technical assistance and guidance for the three-four-year-old classroom. Additionally, you indicated that you have already requested an outreach assessment through the North Carolina Rated License Project. I informed you that I will complete the concertation template to reflect your statement that the information had already been received, your decision not to re-review the information and support requested. If you have questions or need additional guidance, contact me for assistance. I am available to help with the transition. Also, I will be sending you an application, whenever you are ready to apply, submit the completed application and supporting documents to me. We can talk about the timeline when you return. I will contact you by telephone. STAFF RECORDS: Although the staff and training worksheet was not completed during the time of the visit, staff files were reviewed today. I asked that you complete the staff/training worksheet and submit to me by close of business tomorrow (February 20, 2026. The staff/worksheet should be signed and date upon submission. Based on my review, all requirements for staff records were met. SAFE INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT: Aerosol cans were observed in closets and cabinets in two locations within center. I explained that aerosol cans must be always stored in a locked space when not being used. Placing sprays in aerosol cans five feet above the finished floor does not meet the child care requirements for proper storage. You were advised to place all aerosol cans in spaces equipped with approved locks to meet and maintain compliance. Additionally, staff should be reminded of this requirement to ensure compliance is consistently met. The plastic covering on the swings on the preschool playground was observed to be peeling, with pieces seen on the ground in the sand. The chains were also rusted underneath the deteriorating plastic covering. The damaged plastic covering should be removed, and chains should be properly repaired or recovered with appropriate materials to ensure the equipment remains safe and in good repair. SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY: North Carolina General Statute 14-208 requires sex offenders to register with the North Carolina Department of Justice. The law states that a sex offender shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located. This does not apply to child care centers that are located on or within 1,000 feet of property of an institution of higher education where the registrant is a student or is employed. All licensed child care centers must register to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the center. (§14-208.19) To register for the e-mail notification, go to http://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your local sheriff's department. NCID CREDENTIALS: Please remember to use your NCID credential periodically to prevent your user ID and password from becoming inactive. If your NCID credentials are not used within a twelve (12) to fifteen (15) month period, access to your account may be restricted due to inactivity. To avoid disruption, it is strongly recommended that you schedule regular logins to ensure your credentials remain active and valid. RAISE NC NEWSLETTER: The Raise NC Newsletter, sent directly to providers via email, contains valuable and up-to-date information about important updates and changes within the child care sector in North Carolina. I encourage you to set aside time to read each issue upon receipt to ensure you remain informed and updated on the latest developments, resources and guidance impacting child care programs. Staying connected helps support quality child care and compliance across the state. NEW OFFICE LOCATION: The North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services, including the Division of Child Development and Early Education, has moved to a new location. The DCDEE mailing address will remain at 2201 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-2200. If you are visiting the new building, the paid parking deck for our headquarters is immediately beside the building at 1910 Human Services Lane. All guests will check in at the front desk and be escorted by a DHHS staff member to the appropriate floor for their meeting. Getting Here: For GPS and map apps, use 3905 Reedy Creek Rd, Raleigh NC 27607 to get directions. DCDEE RESOURCES: I recommended you periodically visit the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ under the "What's New" tab to stay abreast of updated information provided. Be reminded you are responsible for maintaining compliance with all applicable child care requirements whether they have been discussed or reviewed with you in the past. Tyrell/Washington Partnership for Children is available to provide technical assistance, guidance and training for your programs. You can contact the Partnership at (252) 793-5437 or visit their website at https://twpfc.org/. The agency is located at 125B W Water St, Plymouth, NC 27962 At the completion of the visit, a visit summary report was completed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Keshia Hayward, 252-214-2709, or email keshia.hayward@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, or email jennifer.linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: KESHIA HAYWARD Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/19/2026 Number Present: 24 Completed Date: 2/19/2026 Age: From 1 To 5 Total Minutes: 200 Time In: 08:25 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. V. Brown, Legal Designee/Administrative Assistant, assisted me with the visit. The Administrator/Owner was not present due to illness; however, I did speak with her over the phone. Your program operates with a four-star license, issued December 12, 2022, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space) and 1 quality point for the administrator having at least 10 years of documented child care administration work experience in a licensed program. Your program was also monitored for compliance with implementing an approved curriculum as required for all four- and five-star licensed facilities where four-year-old children are enrolled. The last annual compliance visit was conducted on March 28, 2025. The sanitation inspection was completed December 10, 2025, with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on July 21, 2025, 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 ninety eight percent as of February 19, 2026. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on February 19, 2026, and EduCare Learning Center Inc. was listed as current- active. I visited the indoor and outdoor spaces used by children. Children enrolled in space #2 were participating in free choice play developmentally age-appropriate material/toys. Children in Space #4 were on the floor interacting with caregivers and playing with trucks/animals. Children in Space # 5 were engaged in morning review and interacting with the caregiver. All classes were observed in outdoor play. Proper hand-washing techniques and diaper changing procedures were observed. Lunch was observed and consisted of chicken nuggets, collards, peaches, bread, and milk. The following violations were documented: Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The plastic covering over the chains attached to the swings on the preschool play was peeling and the chains were rusted underneath. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(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. Febreze spray in aerosol dispensed can were observed in and unlocked closet between Spaces #4 and 5. Also, an aerosol can of air Freshener was in an unlocked cabinet above the sink in Space #2. .2820(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violations documented must be corrected immediately. On or before March 5, 2026, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Keshia Hayward, Child Care Consultant PO Box 13 Ahoskie, NC 27910 keshia.hayward@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 FACILITY PROFILE INFORMATION: You verified the phone number, email address and mailing address listed on the facility profile are correct. If changes in your facility’s information occur in the future, contact me at 252-214-2709 or email keshia.hayward@dhhs.nc.gov to discuss the changes and ensure accurate information is updated in our system. QRIS CONVERSTATION: During the visit, I spoke with you via telephone to inquire about discussion of the QRIS Pathway to the Stars process. You stated that you had already reviewed and received the information with another consultant during a visit at your other location. You shared that you did not need to review the information again and planned to proceed with Pathway #1 for this program. You further stated that you need technical assistance and guidance for the three-four-year-old classroom. Additionally, you indicated that you have already requested an outreach assessment through the North Carolina Rated License Project. I informed you that I will complete the concertation template to reflect your statement that the information had already been received, your decision not to re-review the information and support requested. If you have questions or need additional guidance, contact me for assistance. I am available to help with the transition. Also, I will be sending you an application, whenever you are ready to apply, submit the completed application and supporting documents to me. We can talk about the timeline when you return. I will contact you by telephone. STAFF RECORDS: Although the staff and training worksheet was not completed during the time of the visit, staff files were reviewed today. I asked that you complete the staff/training worksheet and submit to me by close of business tomorrow (February 20, 2026. The staff/worksheet should be signed and date upon submission. Based on my review, all requirements for staff records were met. SAFE INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT: Aerosol cans were observed in closets and cabinets in two locations within center. I explained that aerosol cans must be always stored in a locked space when not being used. Placing sprays in aerosol cans five feet above the finished floor does not meet the child care requirements for proper storage. You were advised to place all aerosol cans in spaces equipped with approved locks to meet and maintain compliance. Additionally, staff should be reminded of this requirement to ensure compliance is consistently met. The plastic covering on the swings on the preschool playground was observed to be peeling, with pieces seen on the ground in the sand. The chains were also rusted underneath the deteriorating plastic covering. The damaged plastic covering should be removed, and chains should be properly repaired or recovered with appropriate materials to ensure the equipment remains safe and in good repair. SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY: North Carolina General Statute 14-208 requires sex offenders to register with the North Carolina Department of Justice. The law states that a sex offender shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located. This does not apply to child care centers that are located on or within 1,000 feet of property of an institution of higher education where the registrant is a student or is employed. All licensed child care centers must register to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the center. (§14-208.19) To register for the e-mail notification, go to http://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your local sheriff's department. NCID CREDENTIALS: Please remember to use your NCID credential periodically to prevent your user ID and password from becoming inactive. If your NCID credentials are not used within a twelve (12) to fifteen (15) month period, access to your account may be restricted due to inactivity. To avoid disruption, it is strongly recommended that you schedule regular logins to ensure your credentials remain active and valid. RAISE NC NEWSLETTER: The Raise NC Newsletter, sent directly to providers via email, contains valuable and up-to-date information about important updates and changes within the child care sector in North Carolina. I encourage you to set aside time to read each issue upon receipt to ensure you remain informed and updated on the latest developments, resources and guidance impacting child care programs. Staying connected helps support quality child care and compliance across the state. NEW OFFICE LOCATION: The North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services, including the Division of Child Development and Early Education, has moved to a new location. The DCDEE mailing address will remain at 2201 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-2200. If you are visiting the new building, the paid parking deck for our headquarters is immediately beside the building at 1910 Human Services Lane. All guests will check in at the front desk and be escorted by a DHHS staff member to the appropriate floor for their meeting. Getting Here: For GPS and map apps, use 3905 Reedy Creek Rd, Raleigh NC 27607 to get directions. DCDEE RESOURCES: I recommended you periodically visit the DCDEE website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ under the "What's New" tab to stay abreast of updated information provided. Be reminded you are responsible for maintaining compliance with all applicable child care requirements whether they have been discussed or reviewed with you in the past. Tyrell/Washington Partnership for Children is available to provide technical assistance, guidance and training for your programs. You can contact the Partnership at (252) 793-5437 or visit their website at https://twpfc.org/. The agency is located at 125B W Water St, Plymouth, NC 27962 At the completion of the visit, a visit summary report was completed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Keshia Hayward, 252-214-2709, or email keshia.hayward@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, or email jennifer.linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/28/2025 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 3/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. V. Brothers-Riddick, Administrator, and V. Brown, Assistant Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 5/1/2023, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for administrator having at least 10 years of child care administration work experience in a licensed program. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 4/10/24. The sanitation inspection was completed 12/11/24 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 6/17/24. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety percent as of 3/11/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 3/11/25 and EduCare Learning Center, Inc. was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all the information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, transitions, and personal care routines. Infants were engaged in free play on the carpet. Toddlers and preschoolers were observed in the outdoor spaces pulling wagons, pushing large toys, and climbing stationary climbers. Preschool children transitioned inside, washed their hands, and played musical instruments while marching around the classroom. The outdoor spaces were observed to have stationary climbers, swings, basketball hoop, and balls for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Large shade structures and sand areas were observed. Lunch was observed and consisted of sloppy joes on buns, pickles, oranges, and milk. The following violation was documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In the preschool outdoor space, the first wooden plank of the walkway leading to the infant room, was lifted causing a tripping hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 4/11/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@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 with Documented Violations: Outdoor Environment: Emerging research tells us that children need to spend time outdoors to be healthy as they grow and develop. They will be smarter, better able to get along with others, healthier and happier when they have regular opportunities for free and unstructured play outdoors. Outdoor play is beneficial to children as well as caregivers. Research tells us that spending time outdoors, exposed to fresh air, sunlight, and natural elements such as trees and grass provides many health benefits. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily, and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. In the preschool outdoor space, the first wooden plank of the walkway leading to the infant room, was lifted causing a tripping hazard. When it was brought to your attention, you tried to fix the plank but were unable to without tools. You stated that you will have your husband fix it this evening. Check the outdoor spaces daily before the children arrive to ensure that hazards are removed and inspect equipment thoroughly each month during the playground inspections for hazards. Additional Comments: QRIS Public Comment Period Now Open: The Child Care Commission intends to adopt the rules cited as 10A NCAC 09 .3201-.3226 and amend the rules cited as 10A NCAC 09 .0102, .2902, .2905, .3002, .3009, and .3010. • Read the Proposed Amendments and Adoptions. • Read the Fiscal Impact Analysis approved by the Office of State Budget Management. This set of rules is proposed for adoption and amendment by the N.C. Child Care Commission in response to Session Laws 2023-40 and 2024-34 regarding the modernization of the state’s Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS). Proposed Effective Date: August 1, 2025 Send written comments on the proposed QRIS rules to: Julie Peck, DCDEE Rulemaking Coordinator 2201 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-2201 Julie.peck@dhhs.nc.gov PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD ENDS: APRIL 4, 2025 Natural Learning Initiative: https://naturalearning.org/resources/ Resources are created, often in collaboration with the Natural Learning Initiative’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience of all children. Please use and share. We discussed the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project: NCRLAP’s mission is to promote the quality of child care by consistently and reliably assessing environments for the North Carolina Star Rated License. We collaborate with professionals in the early childhood education field to foster the development and learning of young children. The website ncrlap.org offers resources, trainings, videos, worksheets, and getting ready for ITERS-3 and ECERS-3. The Tyrell/Washington Partnership for Children can provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on child care issues and the Environment Rating Scales virtually. Their phone number is (252)793-5437 or check out their website at www.twpfc.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0102 · Violation

Name of Operation: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/28/2025 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 3/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. V. Brothers-Riddick, Administrator, and V. Brown, Assistant Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 5/1/2023, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for administrator having at least 10 years of child care administration work experience in a licensed program. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 4/10/24. The sanitation inspection was completed 12/11/24 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 6/17/24. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety percent as of 3/11/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 3/11/25 and EduCare Learning Center, Inc. was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all the information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, transitions, and personal care routines. Infants were engaged in free play on the carpet. Toddlers and preschoolers were observed in the outdoor spaces pulling wagons, pushing large toys, and climbing stationary climbers. Preschool children transitioned inside, washed their hands, and played musical instruments while marching around the classroom. The outdoor spaces were observed to have stationary climbers, swings, basketball hoop, and balls for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Large shade structures and sand areas were observed. Lunch was observed and consisted of sloppy joes on buns, pickles, oranges, and milk. The following violation was documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In the preschool outdoor space, the first wooden plank of the walkway leading to the infant room, was lifted causing a tripping hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 4/11/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@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 with Documented Violations: Outdoor Environment: Emerging research tells us that children need to spend time outdoors to be healthy as they grow and develop. They will be smarter, better able to get along with others, healthier and happier when they have regular opportunities for free and unstructured play outdoors. Outdoor play is beneficial to children as well as caregivers. Research tells us that spending time outdoors, exposed to fresh air, sunlight, and natural elements such as trees and grass provides many health benefits. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily, and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. In the preschool outdoor space, the first wooden plank of the walkway leading to the infant room, was lifted causing a tripping hazard. When it was brought to your attention, you tried to fix the plank but were unable to without tools. You stated that you will have your husband fix it this evening. Check the outdoor spaces daily before the children arrive to ensure that hazards are removed and inspect equipment thoroughly each month during the playground inspections for hazards. Additional Comments: QRIS Public Comment Period Now Open: The Child Care Commission intends to adopt the rules cited as 10A NCAC 09 .3201-.3226 and amend the rules cited as 10A NCAC 09 .0102, .2902, .2905, .3002, .3009, and .3010. • Read the Proposed Amendments and Adoptions. • Read the Fiscal Impact Analysis approved by the Office of State Budget Management. This set of rules is proposed for adoption and amendment by the N.C. Child Care Commission in response to Session Laws 2023-40 and 2024-34 regarding the modernization of the state’s Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS). Proposed Effective Date: August 1, 2025 Send written comments on the proposed QRIS rules to: Julie Peck, DCDEE Rulemaking Coordinator 2201 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-2201 Julie.peck@dhhs.nc.gov PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD ENDS: APRIL 4, 2025 Natural Learning Initiative: https://naturalearning.org/resources/ Resources are created, often in collaboration with the Natural Learning Initiative’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience of all children. Please use and share. We discussed the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project: NCRLAP’s mission is to promote the quality of child care by consistently and reliably assessing environments for the North Carolina Star Rated License. We collaborate with professionals in the early childhood education field to foster the development and learning of young children. The website ncrlap.org offers resources, trainings, videos, worksheets, and getting ready for ITERS-3 and ECERS-3. The Tyrell/Washington Partnership for Children can provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on child care issues and the Environment Rating Scales virtually. Their phone number is (252)793-5437 or check out their website at www.twpfc.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@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 .3201 · Violation

Name of Operation: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/28/2025 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 3/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. V. Brothers-Riddick, Administrator, and V. Brown, Assistant Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 5/1/2023, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for administrator having at least 10 years of child care administration work experience in a licensed program. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 4/10/24. The sanitation inspection was completed 12/11/24 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 6/17/24. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety percent as of 3/11/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 3/11/25 and EduCare Learning Center, Inc. was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all the information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, transitions, and personal care routines. Infants were engaged in free play on the carpet. Toddlers and preschoolers were observed in the outdoor spaces pulling wagons, pushing large toys, and climbing stationary climbers. Preschool children transitioned inside, washed their hands, and played musical instruments while marching around the classroom. The outdoor spaces were observed to have stationary climbers, swings, basketball hoop, and balls for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Large shade structures and sand areas were observed. Lunch was observed and consisted of sloppy joes on buns, pickles, oranges, and milk. The following violation was documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In the preschool outdoor space, the first wooden plank of the walkway leading to the infant room, was lifted causing a tripping hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 4/11/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@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 with Documented Violations: Outdoor Environment: Emerging research tells us that children need to spend time outdoors to be healthy as they grow and develop. They will be smarter, better able to get along with others, healthier and happier when they have regular opportunities for free and unstructured play outdoors. Outdoor play is beneficial to children as well as caregivers. Research tells us that spending time outdoors, exposed to fresh air, sunlight, and natural elements such as trees and grass provides many health benefits. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily, and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. In the preschool outdoor space, the first wooden plank of the walkway leading to the infant room, was lifted causing a tripping hazard. When it was brought to your attention, you tried to fix the plank but were unable to without tools. You stated that you will have your husband fix it this evening. Check the outdoor spaces daily before the children arrive to ensure that hazards are removed and inspect equipment thoroughly each month during the playground inspections for hazards. Additional Comments: QRIS Public Comment Period Now Open: The Child Care Commission intends to adopt the rules cited as 10A NCAC 09 .3201-.3226 and amend the rules cited as 10A NCAC 09 .0102, .2902, .2905, .3002, .3009, and .3010. • Read the Proposed Amendments and Adoptions. • Read the Fiscal Impact Analysis approved by the Office of State Budget Management. This set of rules is proposed for adoption and amendment by the N.C. Child Care Commission in response to Session Laws 2023-40 and 2024-34 regarding the modernization of the state’s Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS). Proposed Effective Date: August 1, 2025 Send written comments on the proposed QRIS rules to: Julie Peck, DCDEE Rulemaking Coordinator 2201 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-2201 Julie.peck@dhhs.nc.gov PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD ENDS: APRIL 4, 2025 Natural Learning Initiative: https://naturalearning.org/resources/ Resources are created, often in collaboration with the Natural Learning Initiative’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience of all children. Please use and share. We discussed the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project: NCRLAP’s mission is to promote the quality of child care by consistently and reliably assessing environments for the North Carolina Star Rated License. We collaborate with professionals in the early childhood education field to foster the development and learning of young children. The website ncrlap.org offers resources, trainings, videos, worksheets, and getting ready for ITERS-3 and ECERS-3. The Tyrell/Washington Partnership for Children can provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on child care issues and the Environment Rating Scales virtually. Their phone number is (252)793-5437 or check out their website at www.twpfc.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@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: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: BRITTANY JONES Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/28/2025 Number Present: 17 Completed Date: 3/28/2025 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 230 Time In: 09:25 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit was to monitor your program for compliance with applicable child care requirements for an annual compliance visit. V. Brothers-Riddick, Administrator, and V. Brown, Assistant Administrator, assisted me with the visit. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 5/1/2023, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component and 1 quality point for administrator having at least 10 years of child care administration work experience in a licensed program. The last annual compliance visit was conducted 4/10/24. The sanitation inspection was completed 12/11/24 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted on 6/17/24. The center's compliance history was reviewed with the operator. The program’s compliance history was ninety percent as of 3/11/25. The NC Secretary of State website was reviewed on 3/11/25 and EduCare Learning Center, Inc. was listed as current- active. We reviewed your facility contact information listed on the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) website and all the information is current. Contact me if you need to make any changes to your contact information, e.g., phone numbers, mailing address. All indoor and outdoor spaces were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play in activity centers, transitions, and personal care routines. Infants were engaged in free play on the carpet. Toddlers and preschoolers were observed in the outdoor spaces pulling wagons, pushing large toys, and climbing stationary climbers. Preschool children transitioned inside, washed their hands, and played musical instruments while marching around the classroom. The outdoor spaces were observed to have stationary climbers, swings, basketball hoop, and balls for the children to engage in gross motor activities. Large shade structures and sand areas were observed. Lunch was observed and consisted of sloppy joes on buns, pickles, oranges, and milk. The following violation was documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In the preschool outdoor space, the first wooden plank of the walkway leading to the infant room, was lifted causing a tripping hazard. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 4/11/25, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Mail or email the information to: Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant PO Box 3272 New Bern, NC 28564 Brittany.j.jones@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 with Documented Violations: Outdoor Environment: Emerging research tells us that children need to spend time outdoors to be healthy as they grow and develop. They will be smarter, better able to get along with others, healthier and happier when they have regular opportunities for free and unstructured play outdoors. Outdoor play is beneficial to children as well as caregivers. Research tells us that spending time outdoors, exposed to fresh air, sunlight, and natural elements such as trees and grass provides many health benefits. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily, and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. In the preschool outdoor space, the first wooden plank of the walkway leading to the infant room, was lifted causing a tripping hazard. When it was brought to your attention, you tried to fix the plank but were unable to without tools. You stated that you will have your husband fix it this evening. Check the outdoor spaces daily before the children arrive to ensure that hazards are removed and inspect equipment thoroughly each month during the playground inspections for hazards. Additional Comments: QRIS Public Comment Period Now Open: The Child Care Commission intends to adopt the rules cited as 10A NCAC 09 .3201-.3226 and amend the rules cited as 10A NCAC 09 .0102, .2902, .2905, .3002, .3009, and .3010. • Read the Proposed Amendments and Adoptions. • Read the Fiscal Impact Analysis approved by the Office of State Budget Management. This set of rules is proposed for adoption and amendment by the N.C. Child Care Commission in response to Session Laws 2023-40 and 2024-34 regarding the modernization of the state’s Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS). Proposed Effective Date: August 1, 2025 Send written comments on the proposed QRIS rules to: Julie Peck, DCDEE Rulemaking Coordinator 2201 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-2201 Julie.peck@dhhs.nc.gov PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD ENDS: APRIL 4, 2025 Natural Learning Initiative: https://naturalearning.org/resources/ Resources are created, often in collaboration with the Natural Learning Initiative’s interdisciplinary partners, to support technical assistance, professional development, and generally to promote the importance of the natural environment in the daily experience of all children. Please use and share. We discussed the North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project: NCRLAP’s mission is to promote the quality of child care by consistently and reliably assessing environments for the North Carolina Star Rated License. We collaborate with professionals in the early childhood education field to foster the development and learning of young children. The website ncrlap.org offers resources, trainings, videos, worksheets, and getting ready for ITERS-3 and ECERS-3. The Tyrell/Washington Partnership for Children can provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, and technical assistance on child care issues and the Environment Rating Scales virtually. Their phone number is (252)793-5437 or check out their website at www.twpfc.org. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Brittany Jones, Child Care Consultant, (252) 947-1036, Brittany.j.jones@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, (252) 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@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 .0713 · Violation

Name of Operation: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: TAMARIA WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/11/2024 Number Present: 27 Completed Date: 7/11/2024 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 12:05 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements related to an Administrative Action- Written Warning, dated June 14, 2024 issued to Educare Learning Center, Inc . Michelle O'Kelley, Child Care Consultant accompanied me on this visit. Upon entrance of the facility, I reviewed the Written Warning posted near entry door, visible to staff and parents. V. Brown assisted me with the visit. In classroom space #1 infant children moved freely through the classroom space. In classroom space #4 children engaged in personal care routines and transitioned to outdoor time. Teachers moved throughout the outdoor spaces observing children and engaging in play with the children. Children in classroom space 5 were engaged in indoor free play. Developmentally appropriate materials were available on low-lying open shelves. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space four(4) a sleeve of cups wrapped in plastic was stored on the counter beside the sink. In space one(1) an empty plastic bag was stored below the unlocked changing table. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space one(1) documentation was not available for July 1-3, 2024, and July 8-10, 2024 for one child. .0606(g) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In space four(4) a bottle of Pepsi was on the counter beside the sink. .0901(i) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 25, 2024 I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov When 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: Staff food- -Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming beverages that did not meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In the toddler class, a bottle of Pepsi was located on the counter beside the sink. I recommend if it is your policy that staff may have beverages in the classroom, then those should consist of 100% fruit juice or water. Safe Sleep: Documenting the supervision that is provided for sleeping infants is one way to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The use of sleep charts is identified in your center’s ITS-SIDS policy. Sleep charts are part of the center’s program records and must be kept on file and available for review. Sleep charts for July 1-3, 2024 and July 8-10, 2024 were not available for review for one enrolled in classroom space #1. Check sleep charts weekly to ensure they are completed daily for infants in care. Plastic Bags: Plastic bags are a suffocation hazard for young children and should be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. A Plastic bags was stored under the diaper changing table in space #1 and in space #4 cups were stored in plastic on the counter beside the sink. To make plastic bags inaccessible, they will need to be stored out of reach of children, which is above five feet from the finished floor. Corrective Action Plan: 1. The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements including, but not limited to, the following: • North Carolina General Statute § 110-91(7) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a-e) regarding minimum staff/child ratios • North Carolina General Statute § 110-91(6) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1401(f) regarding capacity • Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801 and -.1003 regarding children’s records Violations of requirements were documented during todays visit. 2. Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Vanessa Brothers-Riddick, administrator, shall contact Lakisha Skinner, Lead Child Care Consultant, telephone number 252-820-5976, email Lakisha. Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov, to arrange for a complete review of child care requirements. All staff members, full-time, part-time, substitute, and auxiliary staff, with responsibilities for caring for children shall attend this mandatory training. Children shall not be in care during this training. Mrs. Brothers-Riddick contacted L. Skinner on 6/24/2024. Documentation of the training shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the training, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the training. Within three (3) days after the training, documentation shall be submitted to Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, PO Box 1002 Williamston, NC 27892, telephone number 252-508-5621, email Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. 3. Within two (2) weeks after completing the training in Item #2, Ms. Brothers-Riddick shall develop a written plan for achieving compliance with children’s records requirements, as well as, always maintaining a safe environment for children. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: • Implementation of children’s file checklist (under provider documents on DCDEE’s website) • Implementation of a safety checklist (to be developed by administrator) • Designation of staff member(s) responsible for reviewing files • Steps to take when information is missing, or items found out of compliance The written plan shall be submitted to Ms. Williams for approval. Ms. Williams shall notify Ms. Brothers-Riddick, orally and in writing, as to whether the written plan is approved or if modifications are needed. Once approved, the written plan shall be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. This stipulation has not been met. 4. Within one (1) week after approval of the written plan in Item #3, a staff meeting shall be conducted to review the approved written plan. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Within three (3) days of the meeting, the documentation shall be submitted to Ms. Williams. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. All approved written plans and procedures shall be implemented immediately following the meeting. This stipulation has not been met. ADDITIONAL COMMENTS: During todays visit technical assistance was on recording keeping for Children's records. We reviewed the children’s application, discipline policy, safe sleep documentation, and prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma forms. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, 252-508-5621, Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252- 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0801 · Violation

Name of Operation: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: TAMARIA WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/11/2024 Number Present: 27 Completed Date: 7/11/2024 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 12:05 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements related to an Administrative Action- Written Warning, dated June 14, 2024 issued to Educare Learning Center, Inc . Michelle O'Kelley, Child Care Consultant accompanied me on this visit. Upon entrance of the facility, I reviewed the Written Warning posted near entry door, visible to staff and parents. V. Brown assisted me with the visit. In classroom space #1 infant children moved freely through the classroom space. In classroom space #4 children engaged in personal care routines and transitioned to outdoor time. Teachers moved throughout the outdoor spaces observing children and engaging in play with the children. Children in classroom space 5 were engaged in indoor free play. Developmentally appropriate materials were available on low-lying open shelves. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space four(4) a sleeve of cups wrapped in plastic was stored on the counter beside the sink. In space one(1) an empty plastic bag was stored below the unlocked changing table. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space one(1) documentation was not available for July 1-3, 2024, and July 8-10, 2024 for one child. .0606(g) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In space four(4) a bottle of Pepsi was on the counter beside the sink. .0901(i) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 25, 2024 I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov When 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: Staff food- -Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming beverages that did not meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In the toddler class, a bottle of Pepsi was located on the counter beside the sink. I recommend if it is your policy that staff may have beverages in the classroom, then those should consist of 100% fruit juice or water. Safe Sleep: Documenting the supervision that is provided for sleeping infants is one way to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The use of sleep charts is identified in your center’s ITS-SIDS policy. Sleep charts are part of the center’s program records and must be kept on file and available for review. Sleep charts for July 1-3, 2024 and July 8-10, 2024 were not available for review for one enrolled in classroom space #1. Check sleep charts weekly to ensure they are completed daily for infants in care. Plastic Bags: Plastic bags are a suffocation hazard for young children and should be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. A Plastic bags was stored under the diaper changing table in space #1 and in space #4 cups were stored in plastic on the counter beside the sink. To make plastic bags inaccessible, they will need to be stored out of reach of children, which is above five feet from the finished floor. Corrective Action Plan: 1. The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements including, but not limited to, the following: • North Carolina General Statute § 110-91(7) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a-e) regarding minimum staff/child ratios • North Carolina General Statute § 110-91(6) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1401(f) regarding capacity • Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801 and -.1003 regarding children’s records Violations of requirements were documented during todays visit. 2. Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Vanessa Brothers-Riddick, administrator, shall contact Lakisha Skinner, Lead Child Care Consultant, telephone number 252-820-5976, email Lakisha. Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov, to arrange for a complete review of child care requirements. All staff members, full-time, part-time, substitute, and auxiliary staff, with responsibilities for caring for children shall attend this mandatory training. Children shall not be in care during this training. Mrs. Brothers-Riddick contacted L. Skinner on 6/24/2024. Documentation of the training shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the training, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the training. Within three (3) days after the training, documentation shall be submitted to Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, PO Box 1002 Williamston, NC 27892, telephone number 252-508-5621, email Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. 3. Within two (2) weeks after completing the training in Item #2, Ms. Brothers-Riddick shall develop a written plan for achieving compliance with children’s records requirements, as well as, always maintaining a safe environment for children. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: • Implementation of children’s file checklist (under provider documents on DCDEE’s website) • Implementation of a safety checklist (to be developed by administrator) • Designation of staff member(s) responsible for reviewing files • Steps to take when information is missing, or items found out of compliance The written plan shall be submitted to Ms. Williams for approval. Ms. Williams shall notify Ms. Brothers-Riddick, orally and in writing, as to whether the written plan is approved or if modifications are needed. Once approved, the written plan shall be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. This stipulation has not been met. 4. Within one (1) week after approval of the written plan in Item #3, a staff meeting shall be conducted to review the approved written plan. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Within three (3) days of the meeting, the documentation shall be submitted to Ms. Williams. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. All approved written plans and procedures shall be implemented immediately following the meeting. This stipulation has not been met. ADDITIONAL COMMENTS: During todays visit technical assistance was on recording keeping for Children's records. We reviewed the children’s application, discipline policy, safe sleep documentation, and prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma forms. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, 252-508-5621, Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252- 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@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 .1401 · Violation

Name of Operation: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: TAMARIA WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/11/2024 Number Present: 27 Completed Date: 7/11/2024 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 12:05 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements related to an Administrative Action- Written Warning, dated June 14, 2024 issued to Educare Learning Center, Inc . Michelle O'Kelley, Child Care Consultant accompanied me on this visit. Upon entrance of the facility, I reviewed the Written Warning posted near entry door, visible to staff and parents. V. Brown assisted me with the visit. In classroom space #1 infant children moved freely through the classroom space. In classroom space #4 children engaged in personal care routines and transitioned to outdoor time. Teachers moved throughout the outdoor spaces observing children and engaging in play with the children. Children in classroom space 5 were engaged in indoor free play. Developmentally appropriate materials were available on low-lying open shelves. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space four(4) a sleeve of cups wrapped in plastic was stored on the counter beside the sink. In space one(1) an empty plastic bag was stored below the unlocked changing table. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space one(1) documentation was not available for July 1-3, 2024, and July 8-10, 2024 for one child. .0606(g) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In space four(4) a bottle of Pepsi was on the counter beside the sink. .0901(i) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 25, 2024 I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov When 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: Staff food- -Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming beverages that did not meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In the toddler class, a bottle of Pepsi was located on the counter beside the sink. I recommend if it is your policy that staff may have beverages in the classroom, then those should consist of 100% fruit juice or water. Safe Sleep: Documenting the supervision that is provided for sleeping infants is one way to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The use of sleep charts is identified in your center’s ITS-SIDS policy. Sleep charts are part of the center’s program records and must be kept on file and available for review. Sleep charts for July 1-3, 2024 and July 8-10, 2024 were not available for review for one enrolled in classroom space #1. Check sleep charts weekly to ensure they are completed daily for infants in care. Plastic Bags: Plastic bags are a suffocation hazard for young children and should be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. A Plastic bags was stored under the diaper changing table in space #1 and in space #4 cups were stored in plastic on the counter beside the sink. To make plastic bags inaccessible, they will need to be stored out of reach of children, which is above five feet from the finished floor. Corrective Action Plan: 1. The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements including, but not limited to, the following: • North Carolina General Statute § 110-91(7) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a-e) regarding minimum staff/child ratios • North Carolina General Statute § 110-91(6) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1401(f) regarding capacity • Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801 and -.1003 regarding children’s records Violations of requirements were documented during todays visit. 2. Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Vanessa Brothers-Riddick, administrator, shall contact Lakisha Skinner, Lead Child Care Consultant, telephone number 252-820-5976, email Lakisha. Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov, to arrange for a complete review of child care requirements. All staff members, full-time, part-time, substitute, and auxiliary staff, with responsibilities for caring for children shall attend this mandatory training. Children shall not be in care during this training. Mrs. Brothers-Riddick contacted L. Skinner on 6/24/2024. Documentation of the training shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the training, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the training. Within three (3) days after the training, documentation shall be submitted to Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, PO Box 1002 Williamston, NC 27892, telephone number 252-508-5621, email Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. 3. Within two (2) weeks after completing the training in Item #2, Ms. Brothers-Riddick shall develop a written plan for achieving compliance with children’s records requirements, as well as, always maintaining a safe environment for children. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: • Implementation of children’s file checklist (under provider documents on DCDEE’s website) • Implementation of a safety checklist (to be developed by administrator) • Designation of staff member(s) responsible for reviewing files • Steps to take when information is missing, or items found out of compliance The written plan shall be submitted to Ms. Williams for approval. Ms. Williams shall notify Ms. Brothers-Riddick, orally and in writing, as to whether the written plan is approved or if modifications are needed. Once approved, the written plan shall be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. This stipulation has not been met. 4. Within one (1) week after approval of the written plan in Item #3, a staff meeting shall be conducted to review the approved written plan. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Within three (3) days of the meeting, the documentation shall be submitted to Ms. Williams. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. All approved written plans and procedures shall be implemented immediately following the meeting. This stipulation has not been met. ADDITIONAL COMMENTS: During todays visit technical assistance was on recording keeping for Children's records. We reviewed the children’s application, discipline policy, safe sleep documentation, and prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma forms. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, 252-508-5621, Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252- 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@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: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: TAMARIA WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 7/11/2024 Number Present: 27 Completed Date: 7/11/2024 Age: From 0 To 8 Total Minutes: 165 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 12:05 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Admin Action Follow-Up Lic Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements related to an Administrative Action- Written Warning, dated June 14, 2024 issued to Educare Learning Center, Inc . Michelle O'Kelley, Child Care Consultant accompanied me on this visit. Upon entrance of the facility, I reviewed the Written Warning posted near entry door, visible to staff and parents. V. Brown assisted me with the visit. In classroom space #1 infant children moved freely through the classroom space. In classroom space #4 children engaged in personal care routines and transitioned to outdoor time. Teachers moved throughout the outdoor spaces observing children and engaging in play with the children. Children in classroom space 5 were engaged in indoor free play. Developmentally appropriate materials were available on low-lying open shelves. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. In space four(4) a sleeve of cups wrapped in plastic was stored on the counter beside the sink. In space one(1) an empty plastic bag was stored below the unlocked changing table. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. In space one(1) documentation was not available for July 1-3, 2024, and July 8-10, 2024 for one child. .0606(g) 1792 Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming food or beverages that meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In space four(4) a bottle of Pepsi was on the counter beside the sink. .0901(i) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 25, 2024 I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov When 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: Staff food- -Staff did not model appropriate eating behaviors by consuming beverages that did not meet the nutritional requirements specified in the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs in the presence of children in care. In the toddler class, a bottle of Pepsi was located on the counter beside the sink. I recommend if it is your policy that staff may have beverages in the classroom, then those should consist of 100% fruit juice or water. Safe Sleep: Documenting the supervision that is provided for sleeping infants is one way to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The use of sleep charts is identified in your center’s ITS-SIDS policy. Sleep charts are part of the center’s program records and must be kept on file and available for review. Sleep charts for July 1-3, 2024 and July 8-10, 2024 were not available for review for one enrolled in classroom space #1. Check sleep charts weekly to ensure they are completed daily for infants in care. Plastic Bags: Plastic bags are a suffocation hazard for young children and should be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. A Plastic bags was stored under the diaper changing table in space #1 and in space #4 cups were stored in plastic on the counter beside the sink. To make plastic bags inaccessible, they will need to be stored out of reach of children, which is above five feet from the finished floor. Corrective Action Plan: 1. The child care operator shall maintain compliance at all times with all applicable child care requirements including, but not limited to, the following: • North Carolina General Statute § 110-91(7) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0713(a-e) regarding minimum staff/child ratios • North Carolina General Statute § 110-91(6) and Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1401(f) regarding capacity • Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .0801 and -.1003 regarding children’s records Violations of requirements were documented during todays visit. 2. Within one (1) week after this Notice is received, Vanessa Brothers-Riddick, administrator, shall contact Lakisha Skinner, Lead Child Care Consultant, telephone number 252-820-5976, email Lakisha. Skinner@dhhs.nc.gov, to arrange for a complete review of child care requirements. All staff members, full-time, part-time, substitute, and auxiliary staff, with responsibilities for caring for children shall attend this mandatory training. Children shall not be in care during this training. Mrs. Brothers-Riddick contacted L. Skinner on 6/24/2024. Documentation of the training shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the training, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the training. Within three (3) days after the training, documentation shall be submitted to Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, PO Box 1002 Williamston, NC 27892, telephone number 252-508-5621, email Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. 3. Within two (2) weeks after completing the training in Item #2, Ms. Brothers-Riddick shall develop a written plan for achieving compliance with children’s records requirements, as well as, always maintaining a safe environment for children. The written plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: • Implementation of children’s file checklist (under provider documents on DCDEE’s website) • Implementation of a safety checklist (to be developed by administrator) • Designation of staff member(s) responsible for reviewing files • Steps to take when information is missing, or items found out of compliance The written plan shall be submitted to Ms. Williams for approval. Ms. Williams shall notify Ms. Brothers-Riddick, orally and in writing, as to whether the written plan is approved or if modifications are needed. Once approved, the written plan shall be immediately implemented and permanently incorporated into the facility’s operating procedures. A copy of the approved written plan shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. This stipulation has not been met. 4. Within one (1) week after approval of the written plan in Item #3, a staff meeting shall be conducted to review the approved written plan. All staff members, including administrative, full-time, part-time, auxiliary, substitute, and volunteer staff, shall participate in the mandatory staff meeting. Within three (3) days of the meeting, the documentation shall be submitted to Ms. Williams. Documentation of the staff meeting shall include an attendance roster with the printed name and signature of each staff member in attendance, the date, time, and length of the meeting, and minutes documenting the information discussed during the meeting. All documentation shall be maintained in facility files for review by representatives of the Division of Child Development and Early Education upon request. All approved written plans and procedures shall be implemented immediately following the meeting. This stipulation has not been met. ADDITIONAL COMMENTS: During todays visit technical assistance was on recording keeping for Children's records. We reviewed the children’s application, discipline policy, safe sleep documentation, and prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma forms. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, 252-508-5621, Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252- 373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: TAMARIA WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/4/2024 Number Present: 31 Completed Date: 6/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 7 Total Minutes: 110 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 12:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Unannounced Visit Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is an unannounced follow up visit. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, and license restrictions were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. Children throughout the center were transitioning from lunch to personal care routines, and naptime. The children rested on linen-covered cots. Lunch consisted of chicken nuggets, cucumber slices, pear halves, bread, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The door was left open to the unoccupied kitchen. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 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. In space four(4) the outlet located under the phone did not have an outlet cover. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. Technical Assistance: Prohibiting Access to Potentially Dangerous Areas – Spaces in the center that could be dangerous to children need to be locked to avoid accidents. Lock the kitchen when not in use. You stated that you forgot to lock the door. You called on a staff member to go close the door and lock it. Even if cleaning supplies are locked within the kitchen, children cannot have access to the stove or the hot water that is maintained at a higher temperature. This was corrected during the visit. Repeat violations demonstrate a pattern of noncompliance and an administrative action may be issued. You will be notified in writing of any action taken. In addition, follow-up visits will continue to be conducted. At the completion of the visit, the visit summary was reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, 252-508-5621, Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: TAMARIA WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/4/2024 Number Present: 31 Completed Date: 6/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 7 Total Minutes: 110 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 12:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Unannounced Visit Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is an unannounced follow up visit. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, and license restrictions were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. Children throughout the center were transitioning from lunch to personal care routines, and naptime. The children rested on linen-covered cots. Lunch consisted of chicken nuggets, cucumber slices, pear halves, bread, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The door was left open to the unoccupied kitchen. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 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. In space four(4) the outlet located under the phone did not have an outlet cover. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. Technical Assistance: Prohibiting Access to Potentially Dangerous Areas – Spaces in the center that could be dangerous to children need to be locked to avoid accidents. Lock the kitchen when not in use. You stated that you forgot to lock the door. You called on a staff member to go close the door and lock it. Even if cleaning supplies are locked within the kitchen, children cannot have access to the stove or the hot water that is maintained at a higher temperature. This was corrected during the visit. Repeat violations demonstrate a pattern of noncompliance and an administrative action may be issued. You will be notified in writing of any action taken. In addition, follow-up visits will continue to be conducted. At the completion of the visit, the visit summary was reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, 252-508-5621, Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@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: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: TAMARIA WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/4/2024 Number Present: 31 Completed Date: 6/4/2024 Age: From 0 To 7 Total Minutes: 110 Time In: 11:00 AM Time Out: 12:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Unannounced Visit Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s visit is an unannounced follow up visit. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, and license restrictions were monitored. The license and emergency care plan were posted. Children throughout the center were transitioning from lunch to personal care routines, and naptime. The children rested on linen-covered cots. Lunch consisted of chicken nuggets, cucumber slices, pear halves, bread, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The door was left open to the unoccupied kitchen. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 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. In space four(4) the outlet located under the phone did not have an outlet cover. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. Technical Assistance: Prohibiting Access to Potentially Dangerous Areas – Spaces in the center that could be dangerous to children need to be locked to avoid accidents. Lock the kitchen when not in use. You stated that you forgot to lock the door. You called on a staff member to go close the door and lock it. Even if cleaning supplies are locked within the kitchen, children cannot have access to the stove or the hot water that is maintained at a higher temperature. This was corrected during the visit. Repeat violations demonstrate a pattern of noncompliance and an administrative action may be issued. You will be notified in writing of any action taken. In addition, follow-up visits will continue to be conducted. At the completion of the visit, the visit summary was reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, 252-508-5621, Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: TAMARIA WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/11/2024 Number Present: 26 Completed Date: 4/11/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 252 Time In: 08:48 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 visit. Lakisha Skinner, Lead Child Care Consultant accompanied me on this visit. V. Brown, assistant administrator assisted me as needed during the visit. V. Brothers-Riddick, administrator, arrived later. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 5/1/2023, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space) and 1 quality point for administrator having at least 10 years of child care administration work experience in a licensed program. The sanitation inspection was completed on 12/13/2023 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 5/8/2023 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 ninety-two percent as of 4/5/24. The facility is currently owned by Educare Learning Center INC and is current-active as of 4/5/24. Please contact me prior to any information changing regarding the owner of this facility. The contact information on the Division of Child Development & Early Education (DCDEE) website was reviewed. It is important to frequently check your email to remain informed about any new changes that have or may occur. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. I visited both indoor and outdoor spaces. Three groups of children were observed today. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play, tummy time, and personal care routines. The classrooms contained materials stored on low-lying shelves. The fenced outdoor play area consisted of a large structure, trikes, and a variety of balls and mobile equipment. Lunch was served and consisted of meatballs, spinach, honey dew melons, bread, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging the receipt of the Summary of the Law GS 110-102 201 A room was occupied by more children than the space allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. Space four(5) holds a capacity of five(5) children. Today nine(9) children were present. GS 110-91(6); .1401(f) 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. Today one (1) staff member exited classroom space three(3) to retrieve paper towels and toilet tissue leaving (1) staff member in the classroom space with thirteen (13) children that were ranging in ages two(2) to five(5) years old. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. While transitioning from outdoor play, three(3) unaccompanied children walked away from the group into unoccupied space two(2). .1801(a)(1-5) 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In one(1) out of five(5) classrooms monitored a staff/child ratio poster was not available. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not available in space four(4). GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 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. One (1) child who turned twelve (12) months today, did not have an infant feeding plan on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. Four(4) cribs located in space one(1) were not labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. During today’s inspection of the outdoor learning environment the grass is overgrown and grass was emerging throughout the sand surfacing. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(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. A tube of Kwik Seal Adhesive Caulk was located in an unlocked cabinet in space two(2). .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Today a tube of Desitin Maximum Strength and a tube of Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play SPF 100 sunscreen did not have authorization forms. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & 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. Unoccupied space two(2) contained new child size chairs that were covered in plastic. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. For the weeks of March 26-29, 2024; April 1-5, 2024; and April 8-10, 2024 safe sleep charts were not available for review for the three children enrolled in classroom space one(1). .0606(g) 1207 Parent participation plan was not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day of attendance and/or a copy was not given to them or posted in the center. Eight (8) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of the Parent Participation Plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0515(a) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Two (2) out of the eight files reviewed did not have an immunization report available for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. (1) out of the eight did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the discipline policy. .1804(c) 1832 Application did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. Seven (7) out of the eight (8) files reviewed did not include a completed heath care needs section. .0801 (a)(5) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One (1) out of the eight files reviewed did not have the medical action plan attached to the application. .0801(b) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. Three (3) out of the eight (8) files reviewed. did not include notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions. .0604(j) 1871 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with parents of currently enrolled children 0-5 within 30 days of adopting the policy. One (1) out of the eight files reviewed did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma policy. .0608(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 4/25/2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Tamaria.williams@dhhs.nc.gov When you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Staff/Child Ratio- Research has verified that staff-child ratios and group sizes are important quality indicators. Staff-child ratio refers to the maximum number of children who may be supervised by one staff member. Today one (1) staff member exited classroom space three(3) to retrieve paper towels and toilet tissue leaving (1) staff member in the classroom space with thirteen (13) children that were ranging in ages two(2) to five(5) years old. Review staff/child ratios requirements with your staff, and develop procedures to follow in order to stay in compliance with child care rules. Ensure that each classroom has a staff/child ratio poster posted. In addition, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Supervision-Supervising children is a critical component of ensuring the safety and well-being of all children. Active supervision requires focused attention and intentional observation of children at all times. Staff must be actively engaged at all times for this to occur. Today while transitioning from outdoor play, three(3) unaccompanied children walked away from the group into unoccupied space two(2). You must always be positioned so all children can be supervised at all times: watching and listening at all times. Regular counting (or use of active supervision) will reduce opportunities for a child to become separated from the group. In addition, a follow-up visit will be made. Outdoor Environment-The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children are able to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. Proper maintenance is a key factor when trying to ensure a safe play environment for children. Outdoor areas should be kept free of excessive high grass. During today’s inspection of the outdoor learning environment, grass is overgrown. Fall zones are used to protect children from serious injury during play. Grass was emerging throughout the sand surfacing which impacts the absorbency of the surfacing. Regular maintenance is required to reduce the emergence of grass from the sand surfacing. Plastic Bags - Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. According to Caring for Our Children, 3rd edition, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has received average annual reports of twenty-five deaths per year to children due to suffocation from plastic bags. In child care facilities, plastic bags should be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. Unoccupied space two(2) contained new child size chairs that were covered in plastic. To make plastic inaccessible to children less than three years old, store them above five feet from the finished floor. Post a reminder in the hallway to remind teachers of this child care requirement. Storage of Hazardous Items - Intentional planning of the environment ensures a safe environment has been created which prevents and reduces injuries to young children. A tube of Kwik Seal Adhesive Caulk was located in space two(2) inside of an unlocked cabinet located above the sink. You reminded staff of proper storage requirements. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. Caregivers/teachers must be diligent in their adherence to the medication administration policy and procedures to prevent any inadvertent medication errors, which may be harmful to the child. There is always a risk that a child may have a negative reaction to a medication, and children should be monitored for serious side effects that may require an emergency response. Today a tube of Desitin Maximum Strength and a tube of Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play SPF 100 sunscreen did not have authorization forms. Review medications prior to use to ensure required documents are on file. Safe Sleep: Documenting the supervision that is provided for sleeping infants is one way to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The use of sleep charts is identified in your center’s ITS-SIDS policy. Sleep charts are part of the center’s program records and must be kept on file and available for review. For the weeks of March 26-29, 2024; April 1-5, 2024; and April 8-10, 2024 safe sleep charts were not available for review for the three children enrolled in classroom space one(1). Check sleep charts at the end of the shift to ensure they are completed daily for infants in care. Infant Feeding Plan - Growth and development during infancy require that nourishing, wholesome, and developmentally appropriate food be provided, using safe approaches to feeding. Individual written infant feeding plans regarding feeding needs and feeding schedule must be developed for each infant in consultation with the infant’s primary care provider and parents/guardians. Infant feeding plans must be followed until the child turns 16 months old. One (1) child who turned twelve (12) months today, did not have an infant feeding plan on file. The feeding instructions for each infant must include child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. It must also include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. Children's Records - Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important because it demonstrates compliance with the child care rules and ensures the health and safety of each child. Eight (8) children’s records were audited during today’s visit. Each child’s application must be signed and filled out in its entirety. One (1) out of the eight (8) children’s records did not have an application signed by the parent. One (1) out of the eight did not have the medical action plan attached to the application. Seven (7) out of the eight (8) did not include a completed heath care needs section. Each child’s file must include documentation of the receipt of specific requirements. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging the receipt of the Summary of the Law. Eight (8) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of the Parent Participation Plan. Two (2) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of operational policies. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions and one (1) out of the eight did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma policy. None of the children’s records audited included a children’s file checklist. We printed one for your record during the visit. Using the checklist will help you as you receive enrollment paperwork from parents and audit the files for completion prior to signing off. I printed one for your records during the visit. Additional Information: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules (updated 1/1/24) and environmental health rules (updated 7/1/23) in North Carolina, the Items Number Listing (can be used as a detailed checklist of required items) and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Check the designated facility email at least weekly to stay current with communication and email blasts from DCDEE. If your email is not the facility email, sign up for email blasts on the What’s New page for general information and communication from DCDEE. The Tyrrell-Washington Partnership for Children is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on child care issues. Their phone number is (252) 793-5437 or check out their website at www.twpfc.org. Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - New child care rules require child care facilities to test for lead in drinking water, lead paint, and asbestos. Testing is required by 1/1/2025, but enrollment is required by 5/1/2024. Check out the FAQ in the updated Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids. Currently there is funding to pay for the testing and to mitigate lead paint or asbestos hazards. Depending on the age of your home or building and the information you provide in the enrollment process, testing for lead paint and asbestos may not be required. (Lead paint was not used in homes built after 1978. Asbestos was not used in homes after 1988.) Water testing will be required every three years. For more information go to https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ or contact your Environmental Health Specialist. The Healthy Social Behaviors (HSB) Project supports teachers to promote healthy social-emotional development and reduce the expulsion rate among young children in licensed child care centers across North Carolina. The team is made up of specialists with early childhood education backgrounds who are passionate about empowering teachers to develop learning environments and teaching practices that promote prosocial skills in young children. To speak to a Behavior Support Advisor contact 1-888-600-1685 option 1. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, 252-508-5621, Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0902 · Violation

Name of Operation: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: TAMARIA WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/11/2024 Number Present: 26 Completed Date: 4/11/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 252 Time In: 08:48 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 visit. Lakisha Skinner, Lead Child Care Consultant accompanied me on this visit. V. Brown, assistant administrator assisted me as needed during the visit. V. Brothers-Riddick, administrator, arrived later. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 5/1/2023, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space) and 1 quality point for administrator having at least 10 years of child care administration work experience in a licensed program. The sanitation inspection was completed on 12/13/2023 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 5/8/2023 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 ninety-two percent as of 4/5/24. The facility is currently owned by Educare Learning Center INC and is current-active as of 4/5/24. Please contact me prior to any information changing regarding the owner of this facility. The contact information on the Division of Child Development & Early Education (DCDEE) website was reviewed. It is important to frequently check your email to remain informed about any new changes that have or may occur. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. I visited both indoor and outdoor spaces. Three groups of children were observed today. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play, tummy time, and personal care routines. The classrooms contained materials stored on low-lying shelves. The fenced outdoor play area consisted of a large structure, trikes, and a variety of balls and mobile equipment. Lunch was served and consisted of meatballs, spinach, honey dew melons, bread, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging the receipt of the Summary of the Law GS 110-102 201 A room was occupied by more children than the space allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. Space four(5) holds a capacity of five(5) children. Today nine(9) children were present. GS 110-91(6); .1401(f) 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. Today one (1) staff member exited classroom space three(3) to retrieve paper towels and toilet tissue leaving (1) staff member in the classroom space with thirteen (13) children that were ranging in ages two(2) to five(5) years old. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. While transitioning from outdoor play, three(3) unaccompanied children walked away from the group into unoccupied space two(2). .1801(a)(1-5) 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In one(1) out of five(5) classrooms monitored a staff/child ratio poster was not available. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not available in space four(4). GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 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. One (1) child who turned twelve (12) months today, did not have an infant feeding plan on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. Four(4) cribs located in space one(1) were not labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. During today’s inspection of the outdoor learning environment the grass is overgrown and grass was emerging throughout the sand surfacing. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(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. A tube of Kwik Seal Adhesive Caulk was located in an unlocked cabinet in space two(2). .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Today a tube of Desitin Maximum Strength and a tube of Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play SPF 100 sunscreen did not have authorization forms. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & 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. Unoccupied space two(2) contained new child size chairs that were covered in plastic. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. For the weeks of March 26-29, 2024; April 1-5, 2024; and April 8-10, 2024 safe sleep charts were not available for review for the three children enrolled in classroom space one(1). .0606(g) 1207 Parent participation plan was not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day of attendance and/or a copy was not given to them or posted in the center. Eight (8) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of the Parent Participation Plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0515(a) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Two (2) out of the eight files reviewed did not have an immunization report available for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. (1) out of the eight did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the discipline policy. .1804(c) 1832 Application did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. Seven (7) out of the eight (8) files reviewed did not include a completed heath care needs section. .0801 (a)(5) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One (1) out of the eight files reviewed did not have the medical action plan attached to the application. .0801(b) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. Three (3) out of the eight (8) files reviewed. did not include notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions. .0604(j) 1871 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with parents of currently enrolled children 0-5 within 30 days of adopting the policy. One (1) out of the eight files reviewed did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma policy. .0608(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 4/25/2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Tamaria.williams@dhhs.nc.gov When you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Staff/Child Ratio- Research has verified that staff-child ratios and group sizes are important quality indicators. Staff-child ratio refers to the maximum number of children who may be supervised by one staff member. Today one (1) staff member exited classroom space three(3) to retrieve paper towels and toilet tissue leaving (1) staff member in the classroom space with thirteen (13) children that were ranging in ages two(2) to five(5) years old. Review staff/child ratios requirements with your staff, and develop procedures to follow in order to stay in compliance with child care rules. Ensure that each classroom has a staff/child ratio poster posted. In addition, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Supervision-Supervising children is a critical component of ensuring the safety and well-being of all children. Active supervision requires focused attention and intentional observation of children at all times. Staff must be actively engaged at all times for this to occur. Today while transitioning from outdoor play, three(3) unaccompanied children walked away from the group into unoccupied space two(2). You must always be positioned so all children can be supervised at all times: watching and listening at all times. Regular counting (or use of active supervision) will reduce opportunities for a child to become separated from the group. In addition, a follow-up visit will be made. Outdoor Environment-The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children are able to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. Proper maintenance is a key factor when trying to ensure a safe play environment for children. Outdoor areas should be kept free of excessive high grass. During today’s inspection of the outdoor learning environment, grass is overgrown. Fall zones are used to protect children from serious injury during play. Grass was emerging throughout the sand surfacing which impacts the absorbency of the surfacing. Regular maintenance is required to reduce the emergence of grass from the sand surfacing. Plastic Bags - Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. According to Caring for Our Children, 3rd edition, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has received average annual reports of twenty-five deaths per year to children due to suffocation from plastic bags. In child care facilities, plastic bags should be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. Unoccupied space two(2) contained new child size chairs that were covered in plastic. To make plastic inaccessible to children less than three years old, store them above five feet from the finished floor. Post a reminder in the hallway to remind teachers of this child care requirement. Storage of Hazardous Items - Intentional planning of the environment ensures a safe environment has been created which prevents and reduces injuries to young children. A tube of Kwik Seal Adhesive Caulk was located in space two(2) inside of an unlocked cabinet located above the sink. You reminded staff of proper storage requirements. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. Caregivers/teachers must be diligent in their adherence to the medication administration policy and procedures to prevent any inadvertent medication errors, which may be harmful to the child. There is always a risk that a child may have a negative reaction to a medication, and children should be monitored for serious side effects that may require an emergency response. Today a tube of Desitin Maximum Strength and a tube of Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play SPF 100 sunscreen did not have authorization forms. Review medications prior to use to ensure required documents are on file. Safe Sleep: Documenting the supervision that is provided for sleeping infants is one way to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The use of sleep charts is identified in your center’s ITS-SIDS policy. Sleep charts are part of the center’s program records and must be kept on file and available for review. For the weeks of March 26-29, 2024; April 1-5, 2024; and April 8-10, 2024 safe sleep charts were not available for review for the three children enrolled in classroom space one(1). Check sleep charts at the end of the shift to ensure they are completed daily for infants in care. Infant Feeding Plan - Growth and development during infancy require that nourishing, wholesome, and developmentally appropriate food be provided, using safe approaches to feeding. Individual written infant feeding plans regarding feeding needs and feeding schedule must be developed for each infant in consultation with the infant’s primary care provider and parents/guardians. Infant feeding plans must be followed until the child turns 16 months old. One (1) child who turned twelve (12) months today, did not have an infant feeding plan on file. The feeding instructions for each infant must include child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. It must also include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. Children's Records - Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important because it demonstrates compliance with the child care rules and ensures the health and safety of each child. Eight (8) children’s records were audited during today’s visit. Each child’s application must be signed and filled out in its entirety. One (1) out of the eight (8) children’s records did not have an application signed by the parent. One (1) out of the eight did not have the medical action plan attached to the application. Seven (7) out of the eight (8) did not include a completed heath care needs section. Each child’s file must include documentation of the receipt of specific requirements. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging the receipt of the Summary of the Law. Eight (8) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of the Parent Participation Plan. Two (2) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of operational policies. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions and one (1) out of the eight did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma policy. None of the children’s records audited included a children’s file checklist. We printed one for your record during the visit. Using the checklist will help you as you receive enrollment paperwork from parents and audit the files for completion prior to signing off. I printed one for your records during the visit. Additional Information: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules (updated 1/1/24) and environmental health rules (updated 7/1/23) in North Carolina, the Items Number Listing (can be used as a detailed checklist of required items) and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Check the designated facility email at least weekly to stay current with communication and email blasts from DCDEE. If your email is not the facility email, sign up for email blasts on the What’s New page for general information and communication from DCDEE. The Tyrrell-Washington Partnership for Children is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on child care issues. Their phone number is (252) 793-5437 or check out their website at www.twpfc.org. Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - New child care rules require child care facilities to test for lead in drinking water, lead paint, and asbestos. Testing is required by 1/1/2025, but enrollment is required by 5/1/2024. Check out the FAQ in the updated Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids. Currently there is funding to pay for the testing and to mitigate lead paint or asbestos hazards. Depending on the age of your home or building and the information you provide in the enrollment process, testing for lead paint and asbestos may not be required. (Lead paint was not used in homes built after 1978. Asbestos was not used in homes after 1988.) Water testing will be required every three years. For more information go to https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ or contact your Environmental Health Specialist. The Healthy Social Behaviors (HSB) Project supports teachers to promote healthy social-emotional development and reduce the expulsion rate among young children in licensed child care centers across North Carolina. The team is made up of specialists with early childhood education backgrounds who are passionate about empowering teachers to develop learning environments and teaching practices that promote prosocial skills in young children. To speak to a Behavior Support Advisor contact 1-888-600-1685 option 1. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, 252-508-5621, Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@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 .0302 · Violation

Name of Operation: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: TAMARIA WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/11/2024 Number Present: 26 Completed Date: 4/11/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 252 Time In: 08:48 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 visit. Lakisha Skinner, Lead Child Care Consultant accompanied me on this visit. V. Brown, assistant administrator assisted me as needed during the visit. V. Brothers-Riddick, administrator, arrived later. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 5/1/2023, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space) and 1 quality point for administrator having at least 10 years of child care administration work experience in a licensed program. The sanitation inspection was completed on 12/13/2023 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 5/8/2023 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 ninety-two percent as of 4/5/24. The facility is currently owned by Educare Learning Center INC and is current-active as of 4/5/24. Please contact me prior to any information changing regarding the owner of this facility. The contact information on the Division of Child Development & Early Education (DCDEE) website was reviewed. It is important to frequently check your email to remain informed about any new changes that have or may occur. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. I visited both indoor and outdoor spaces. Three groups of children were observed today. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play, tummy time, and personal care routines. The classrooms contained materials stored on low-lying shelves. The fenced outdoor play area consisted of a large structure, trikes, and a variety of balls and mobile equipment. Lunch was served and consisted of meatballs, spinach, honey dew melons, bread, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging the receipt of the Summary of the Law GS 110-102 201 A room was occupied by more children than the space allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. Space four(5) holds a capacity of five(5) children. Today nine(9) children were present. GS 110-91(6); .1401(f) 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. Today one (1) staff member exited classroom space three(3) to retrieve paper towels and toilet tissue leaving (1) staff member in the classroom space with thirteen (13) children that were ranging in ages two(2) to five(5) years old. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. While transitioning from outdoor play, three(3) unaccompanied children walked away from the group into unoccupied space two(2). .1801(a)(1-5) 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In one(1) out of five(5) classrooms monitored a staff/child ratio poster was not available. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not available in space four(4). GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 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. One (1) child who turned twelve (12) months today, did not have an infant feeding plan on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. Four(4) cribs located in space one(1) were not labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. During today’s inspection of the outdoor learning environment the grass is overgrown and grass was emerging throughout the sand surfacing. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(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. A tube of Kwik Seal Adhesive Caulk was located in an unlocked cabinet in space two(2). .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Today a tube of Desitin Maximum Strength and a tube of Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play SPF 100 sunscreen did not have authorization forms. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & 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. Unoccupied space two(2) contained new child size chairs that were covered in plastic. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. For the weeks of March 26-29, 2024; April 1-5, 2024; and April 8-10, 2024 safe sleep charts were not available for review for the three children enrolled in classroom space one(1). .0606(g) 1207 Parent participation plan was not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day of attendance and/or a copy was not given to them or posted in the center. Eight (8) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of the Parent Participation Plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0515(a) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Two (2) out of the eight files reviewed did not have an immunization report available for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. (1) out of the eight did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the discipline policy. .1804(c) 1832 Application did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. Seven (7) out of the eight (8) files reviewed did not include a completed heath care needs section. .0801 (a)(5) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One (1) out of the eight files reviewed did not have the medical action plan attached to the application. .0801(b) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. Three (3) out of the eight (8) files reviewed. did not include notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions. .0604(j) 1871 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with parents of currently enrolled children 0-5 within 30 days of adopting the policy. One (1) out of the eight files reviewed did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma policy. .0608(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 4/25/2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Tamaria.williams@dhhs.nc.gov When you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Staff/Child Ratio- Research has verified that staff-child ratios and group sizes are important quality indicators. Staff-child ratio refers to the maximum number of children who may be supervised by one staff member. Today one (1) staff member exited classroom space three(3) to retrieve paper towels and toilet tissue leaving (1) staff member in the classroom space with thirteen (13) children that were ranging in ages two(2) to five(5) years old. Review staff/child ratios requirements with your staff, and develop procedures to follow in order to stay in compliance with child care rules. Ensure that each classroom has a staff/child ratio poster posted. In addition, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Supervision-Supervising children is a critical component of ensuring the safety and well-being of all children. Active supervision requires focused attention and intentional observation of children at all times. Staff must be actively engaged at all times for this to occur. Today while transitioning from outdoor play, three(3) unaccompanied children walked away from the group into unoccupied space two(2). You must always be positioned so all children can be supervised at all times: watching and listening at all times. Regular counting (or use of active supervision) will reduce opportunities for a child to become separated from the group. In addition, a follow-up visit will be made. Outdoor Environment-The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children are able to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. Proper maintenance is a key factor when trying to ensure a safe play environment for children. Outdoor areas should be kept free of excessive high grass. During today’s inspection of the outdoor learning environment, grass is overgrown. Fall zones are used to protect children from serious injury during play. Grass was emerging throughout the sand surfacing which impacts the absorbency of the surfacing. Regular maintenance is required to reduce the emergence of grass from the sand surfacing. Plastic Bags - Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. According to Caring for Our Children, 3rd edition, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has received average annual reports of twenty-five deaths per year to children due to suffocation from plastic bags. In child care facilities, plastic bags should be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. Unoccupied space two(2) contained new child size chairs that were covered in plastic. To make plastic inaccessible to children less than three years old, store them above five feet from the finished floor. Post a reminder in the hallway to remind teachers of this child care requirement. Storage of Hazardous Items - Intentional planning of the environment ensures a safe environment has been created which prevents and reduces injuries to young children. A tube of Kwik Seal Adhesive Caulk was located in space two(2) inside of an unlocked cabinet located above the sink. You reminded staff of proper storage requirements. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. Caregivers/teachers must be diligent in their adherence to the medication administration policy and procedures to prevent any inadvertent medication errors, which may be harmful to the child. There is always a risk that a child may have a negative reaction to a medication, and children should be monitored for serious side effects that may require an emergency response. Today a tube of Desitin Maximum Strength and a tube of Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play SPF 100 sunscreen did not have authorization forms. Review medications prior to use to ensure required documents are on file. Safe Sleep: Documenting the supervision that is provided for sleeping infants is one way to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The use of sleep charts is identified in your center’s ITS-SIDS policy. Sleep charts are part of the center’s program records and must be kept on file and available for review. For the weeks of March 26-29, 2024; April 1-5, 2024; and April 8-10, 2024 safe sleep charts were not available for review for the three children enrolled in classroom space one(1). Check sleep charts at the end of the shift to ensure they are completed daily for infants in care. Infant Feeding Plan - Growth and development during infancy require that nourishing, wholesome, and developmentally appropriate food be provided, using safe approaches to feeding. Individual written infant feeding plans regarding feeding needs and feeding schedule must be developed for each infant in consultation with the infant’s primary care provider and parents/guardians. Infant feeding plans must be followed until the child turns 16 months old. One (1) child who turned twelve (12) months today, did not have an infant feeding plan on file. The feeding instructions for each infant must include child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. It must also include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. Children's Records - Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important because it demonstrates compliance with the child care rules and ensures the health and safety of each child. Eight (8) children’s records were audited during today’s visit. Each child’s application must be signed and filled out in its entirety. One (1) out of the eight (8) children’s records did not have an application signed by the parent. One (1) out of the eight did not have the medical action plan attached to the application. Seven (7) out of the eight (8) did not include a completed heath care needs section. Each child’s file must include documentation of the receipt of specific requirements. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging the receipt of the Summary of the Law. Eight (8) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of the Parent Participation Plan. Two (2) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of operational policies. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions and one (1) out of the eight did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma policy. None of the children’s records audited included a children’s file checklist. We printed one for your record during the visit. Using the checklist will help you as you receive enrollment paperwork from parents and audit the files for completion prior to signing off. I printed one for your records during the visit. Additional Information: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules (updated 1/1/24) and environmental health rules (updated 7/1/23) in North Carolina, the Items Number Listing (can be used as a detailed checklist of required items) and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Check the designated facility email at least weekly to stay current with communication and email blasts from DCDEE. If your email is not the facility email, sign up for email blasts on the What’s New page for general information and communication from DCDEE. The Tyrrell-Washington Partnership for Children is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on child care issues. Their phone number is (252) 793-5437 or check out their website at www.twpfc.org. Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - New child care rules require child care facilities to test for lead in drinking water, lead paint, and asbestos. Testing is required by 1/1/2025, but enrollment is required by 5/1/2024. Check out the FAQ in the updated Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids. Currently there is funding to pay for the testing and to mitigate lead paint or asbestos hazards. Depending on the age of your home or building and the information you provide in the enrollment process, testing for lead paint and asbestos may not be required. (Lead paint was not used in homes built after 1978. Asbestos was not used in homes after 1988.) Water testing will be required every three years. For more information go to https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ or contact your Environmental Health Specialist. The Healthy Social Behaviors (HSB) Project supports teachers to promote healthy social-emotional development and reduce the expulsion rate among young children in licensed child care centers across North Carolina. The team is made up of specialists with early childhood education backgrounds who are passionate about empowering teachers to develop learning environments and teaching practices that promote prosocial skills in young children. To speak to a Behavior Support Advisor contact 1-888-600-1685 option 1. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, 252-508-5621, Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@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 .0515 · Violation

Name of Operation: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: TAMARIA WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/11/2024 Number Present: 26 Completed Date: 4/11/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 252 Time In: 08:48 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 visit. Lakisha Skinner, Lead Child Care Consultant accompanied me on this visit. V. Brown, assistant administrator assisted me as needed during the visit. V. Brothers-Riddick, administrator, arrived later. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 5/1/2023, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space) and 1 quality point for administrator having at least 10 years of child care administration work experience in a licensed program. The sanitation inspection was completed on 12/13/2023 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 5/8/2023 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 ninety-two percent as of 4/5/24. The facility is currently owned by Educare Learning Center INC and is current-active as of 4/5/24. Please contact me prior to any information changing regarding the owner of this facility. The contact information on the Division of Child Development & Early Education (DCDEE) website was reviewed. It is important to frequently check your email to remain informed about any new changes that have or may occur. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. I visited both indoor and outdoor spaces. Three groups of children were observed today. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play, tummy time, and personal care routines. The classrooms contained materials stored on low-lying shelves. The fenced outdoor play area consisted of a large structure, trikes, and a variety of balls and mobile equipment. Lunch was served and consisted of meatballs, spinach, honey dew melons, bread, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging the receipt of the Summary of the Law GS 110-102 201 A room was occupied by more children than the space allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. Space four(5) holds a capacity of five(5) children. Today nine(9) children were present. GS 110-91(6); .1401(f) 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. Today one (1) staff member exited classroom space three(3) to retrieve paper towels and toilet tissue leaving (1) staff member in the classroom space with thirteen (13) children that were ranging in ages two(2) to five(5) years old. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. While transitioning from outdoor play, three(3) unaccompanied children walked away from the group into unoccupied space two(2). .1801(a)(1-5) 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In one(1) out of five(5) classrooms monitored a staff/child ratio poster was not available. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not available in space four(4). GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 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. One (1) child who turned twelve (12) months today, did not have an infant feeding plan on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. Four(4) cribs located in space one(1) were not labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. During today’s inspection of the outdoor learning environment the grass is overgrown and grass was emerging throughout the sand surfacing. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(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. A tube of Kwik Seal Adhesive Caulk was located in an unlocked cabinet in space two(2). .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Today a tube of Desitin Maximum Strength and a tube of Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play SPF 100 sunscreen did not have authorization forms. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & 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. Unoccupied space two(2) contained new child size chairs that were covered in plastic. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. For the weeks of March 26-29, 2024; April 1-5, 2024; and April 8-10, 2024 safe sleep charts were not available for review for the three children enrolled in classroom space one(1). .0606(g) 1207 Parent participation plan was not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day of attendance and/or a copy was not given to them or posted in the center. Eight (8) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of the Parent Participation Plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0515(a) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Two (2) out of the eight files reviewed did not have an immunization report available for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. (1) out of the eight did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the discipline policy. .1804(c) 1832 Application did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. Seven (7) out of the eight (8) files reviewed did not include a completed heath care needs section. .0801 (a)(5) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One (1) out of the eight files reviewed did not have the medical action plan attached to the application. .0801(b) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. Three (3) out of the eight (8) files reviewed. did not include notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions. .0604(j) 1871 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with parents of currently enrolled children 0-5 within 30 days of adopting the policy. One (1) out of the eight files reviewed did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma policy. .0608(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 4/25/2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Tamaria.williams@dhhs.nc.gov When you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Staff/Child Ratio- Research has verified that staff-child ratios and group sizes are important quality indicators. Staff-child ratio refers to the maximum number of children who may be supervised by one staff member. Today one (1) staff member exited classroom space three(3) to retrieve paper towels and toilet tissue leaving (1) staff member in the classroom space with thirteen (13) children that were ranging in ages two(2) to five(5) years old. Review staff/child ratios requirements with your staff, and develop procedures to follow in order to stay in compliance with child care rules. Ensure that each classroom has a staff/child ratio poster posted. In addition, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Supervision-Supervising children is a critical component of ensuring the safety and well-being of all children. Active supervision requires focused attention and intentional observation of children at all times. Staff must be actively engaged at all times for this to occur. Today while transitioning from outdoor play, three(3) unaccompanied children walked away from the group into unoccupied space two(2). You must always be positioned so all children can be supervised at all times: watching and listening at all times. Regular counting (or use of active supervision) will reduce opportunities for a child to become separated from the group. In addition, a follow-up visit will be made. Outdoor Environment-The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children are able to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. Proper maintenance is a key factor when trying to ensure a safe play environment for children. Outdoor areas should be kept free of excessive high grass. During today’s inspection of the outdoor learning environment, grass is overgrown. Fall zones are used to protect children from serious injury during play. Grass was emerging throughout the sand surfacing which impacts the absorbency of the surfacing. Regular maintenance is required to reduce the emergence of grass from the sand surfacing. Plastic Bags - Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. According to Caring for Our Children, 3rd edition, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has received average annual reports of twenty-five deaths per year to children due to suffocation from plastic bags. In child care facilities, plastic bags should be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. Unoccupied space two(2) contained new child size chairs that were covered in plastic. To make plastic inaccessible to children less than three years old, store them above five feet from the finished floor. Post a reminder in the hallway to remind teachers of this child care requirement. Storage of Hazardous Items - Intentional planning of the environment ensures a safe environment has been created which prevents and reduces injuries to young children. A tube of Kwik Seal Adhesive Caulk was located in space two(2) inside of an unlocked cabinet located above the sink. You reminded staff of proper storage requirements. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. Caregivers/teachers must be diligent in their adherence to the medication administration policy and procedures to prevent any inadvertent medication errors, which may be harmful to the child. There is always a risk that a child may have a negative reaction to a medication, and children should be monitored for serious side effects that may require an emergency response. Today a tube of Desitin Maximum Strength and a tube of Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play SPF 100 sunscreen did not have authorization forms. Review medications prior to use to ensure required documents are on file. Safe Sleep: Documenting the supervision that is provided for sleeping infants is one way to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The use of sleep charts is identified in your center’s ITS-SIDS policy. Sleep charts are part of the center’s program records and must be kept on file and available for review. For the weeks of March 26-29, 2024; April 1-5, 2024; and April 8-10, 2024 safe sleep charts were not available for review for the three children enrolled in classroom space one(1). Check sleep charts at the end of the shift to ensure they are completed daily for infants in care. Infant Feeding Plan - Growth and development during infancy require that nourishing, wholesome, and developmentally appropriate food be provided, using safe approaches to feeding. Individual written infant feeding plans regarding feeding needs and feeding schedule must be developed for each infant in consultation with the infant’s primary care provider and parents/guardians. Infant feeding plans must be followed until the child turns 16 months old. One (1) child who turned twelve (12) months today, did not have an infant feeding plan on file. The feeding instructions for each infant must include child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. It must also include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. Children's Records - Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important because it demonstrates compliance with the child care rules and ensures the health and safety of each child. Eight (8) children’s records were audited during today’s visit. Each child’s application must be signed and filled out in its entirety. One (1) out of the eight (8) children’s records did not have an application signed by the parent. One (1) out of the eight did not have the medical action plan attached to the application. Seven (7) out of the eight (8) did not include a completed heath care needs section. Each child’s file must include documentation of the receipt of specific requirements. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging the receipt of the Summary of the Law. Eight (8) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of the Parent Participation Plan. Two (2) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of operational policies. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions and one (1) out of the eight did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma policy. None of the children’s records audited included a children’s file checklist. We printed one for your record during the visit. Using the checklist will help you as you receive enrollment paperwork from parents and audit the files for completion prior to signing off. I printed one for your records during the visit. Additional Information: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules (updated 1/1/24) and environmental health rules (updated 7/1/23) in North Carolina, the Items Number Listing (can be used as a detailed checklist of required items) and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Check the designated facility email at least weekly to stay current with communication and email blasts from DCDEE. If your email is not the facility email, sign up for email blasts on the What’s New page for general information and communication from DCDEE. The Tyrrell-Washington Partnership for Children is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on child care issues. Their phone number is (252) 793-5437 or check out their website at www.twpfc.org. Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - New child care rules require child care facilities to test for lead in drinking water, lead paint, and asbestos. Testing is required by 1/1/2025, but enrollment is required by 5/1/2024. Check out the FAQ in the updated Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids. Currently there is funding to pay for the testing and to mitigate lead paint or asbestos hazards. Depending on the age of your home or building and the information you provide in the enrollment process, testing for lead paint and asbestos may not be required. (Lead paint was not used in homes built after 1978. Asbestos was not used in homes after 1988.) Water testing will be required every three years. For more information go to https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ or contact your Environmental Health Specialist. The Healthy Social Behaviors (HSB) Project supports teachers to promote healthy social-emotional development and reduce the expulsion rate among young children in licensed child care centers across North Carolina. The team is made up of specialists with early childhood education backgrounds who are passionate about empowering teachers to develop learning environments and teaching practices that promote prosocial skills in young children. To speak to a Behavior Support Advisor contact 1-888-600-1685 option 1. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, 252-508-5621, Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@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: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: TAMARIA WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/11/2024 Number Present: 26 Completed Date: 4/11/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 252 Time In: 08:48 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 visit. Lakisha Skinner, Lead Child Care Consultant accompanied me on this visit. V. Brown, assistant administrator assisted me as needed during the visit. V. Brothers-Riddick, administrator, arrived later. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 5/1/2023, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space) and 1 quality point for administrator having at least 10 years of child care administration work experience in a licensed program. The sanitation inspection was completed on 12/13/2023 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 5/8/2023 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 ninety-two percent as of 4/5/24. The facility is currently owned by Educare Learning Center INC and is current-active as of 4/5/24. Please contact me prior to any information changing regarding the owner of this facility. The contact information on the Division of Child Development & Early Education (DCDEE) website was reviewed. It is important to frequently check your email to remain informed about any new changes that have or may occur. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. I visited both indoor and outdoor spaces. Three groups of children were observed today. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play, tummy time, and personal care routines. The classrooms contained materials stored on low-lying shelves. The fenced outdoor play area consisted of a large structure, trikes, and a variety of balls and mobile equipment. Lunch was served and consisted of meatballs, spinach, honey dew melons, bread, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging the receipt of the Summary of the Law GS 110-102 201 A room was occupied by more children than the space allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. Space four(5) holds a capacity of five(5) children. Today nine(9) children were present. GS 110-91(6); .1401(f) 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. Today one (1) staff member exited classroom space three(3) to retrieve paper towels and toilet tissue leaving (1) staff member in the classroom space with thirteen (13) children that were ranging in ages two(2) to five(5) years old. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. While transitioning from outdoor play, three(3) unaccompanied children walked away from the group into unoccupied space two(2). .1801(a)(1-5) 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In one(1) out of five(5) classrooms monitored a staff/child ratio poster was not available. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not available in space four(4). GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 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. One (1) child who turned twelve (12) months today, did not have an infant feeding plan on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. Four(4) cribs located in space one(1) were not labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. During today’s inspection of the outdoor learning environment the grass is overgrown and grass was emerging throughout the sand surfacing. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(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. A tube of Kwik Seal Adhesive Caulk was located in an unlocked cabinet in space two(2). .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Today a tube of Desitin Maximum Strength and a tube of Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play SPF 100 sunscreen did not have authorization forms. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & 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. Unoccupied space two(2) contained new child size chairs that were covered in plastic. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. For the weeks of March 26-29, 2024; April 1-5, 2024; and April 8-10, 2024 safe sleep charts were not available for review for the three children enrolled in classroom space one(1). .0606(g) 1207 Parent participation plan was not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day of attendance and/or a copy was not given to them or posted in the center. Eight (8) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of the Parent Participation Plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0515(a) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Two (2) out of the eight files reviewed did not have an immunization report available for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. (1) out of the eight did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the discipline policy. .1804(c) 1832 Application did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. Seven (7) out of the eight (8) files reviewed did not include a completed heath care needs section. .0801 (a)(5) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One (1) out of the eight files reviewed did not have the medical action plan attached to the application. .0801(b) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. Three (3) out of the eight (8) files reviewed. did not include notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions. .0604(j) 1871 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with parents of currently enrolled children 0-5 within 30 days of adopting the policy. One (1) out of the eight files reviewed did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma policy. .0608(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 4/25/2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Tamaria.williams@dhhs.nc.gov When you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Staff/Child Ratio- Research has verified that staff-child ratios and group sizes are important quality indicators. Staff-child ratio refers to the maximum number of children who may be supervised by one staff member. Today one (1) staff member exited classroom space three(3) to retrieve paper towels and toilet tissue leaving (1) staff member in the classroom space with thirteen (13) children that were ranging in ages two(2) to five(5) years old. Review staff/child ratios requirements with your staff, and develop procedures to follow in order to stay in compliance with child care rules. Ensure that each classroom has a staff/child ratio poster posted. In addition, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Supervision-Supervising children is a critical component of ensuring the safety and well-being of all children. Active supervision requires focused attention and intentional observation of children at all times. Staff must be actively engaged at all times for this to occur. Today while transitioning from outdoor play, three(3) unaccompanied children walked away from the group into unoccupied space two(2). You must always be positioned so all children can be supervised at all times: watching and listening at all times. Regular counting (or use of active supervision) will reduce opportunities for a child to become separated from the group. In addition, a follow-up visit will be made. Outdoor Environment-The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children are able to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. Proper maintenance is a key factor when trying to ensure a safe play environment for children. Outdoor areas should be kept free of excessive high grass. During today’s inspection of the outdoor learning environment, grass is overgrown. Fall zones are used to protect children from serious injury during play. Grass was emerging throughout the sand surfacing which impacts the absorbency of the surfacing. Regular maintenance is required to reduce the emergence of grass from the sand surfacing. Plastic Bags - Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. According to Caring for Our Children, 3rd edition, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has received average annual reports of twenty-five deaths per year to children due to suffocation from plastic bags. In child care facilities, plastic bags should be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. Unoccupied space two(2) contained new child size chairs that were covered in plastic. To make plastic inaccessible to children less than three years old, store them above five feet from the finished floor. Post a reminder in the hallway to remind teachers of this child care requirement. Storage of Hazardous Items - Intentional planning of the environment ensures a safe environment has been created which prevents and reduces injuries to young children. A tube of Kwik Seal Adhesive Caulk was located in space two(2) inside of an unlocked cabinet located above the sink. You reminded staff of proper storage requirements. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. Caregivers/teachers must be diligent in their adherence to the medication administration policy and procedures to prevent any inadvertent medication errors, which may be harmful to the child. There is always a risk that a child may have a negative reaction to a medication, and children should be monitored for serious side effects that may require an emergency response. Today a tube of Desitin Maximum Strength and a tube of Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play SPF 100 sunscreen did not have authorization forms. Review medications prior to use to ensure required documents are on file. Safe Sleep: Documenting the supervision that is provided for sleeping infants is one way to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The use of sleep charts is identified in your center’s ITS-SIDS policy. Sleep charts are part of the center’s program records and must be kept on file and available for review. For the weeks of March 26-29, 2024; April 1-5, 2024; and April 8-10, 2024 safe sleep charts were not available for review for the three children enrolled in classroom space one(1). Check sleep charts at the end of the shift to ensure they are completed daily for infants in care. Infant Feeding Plan - Growth and development during infancy require that nourishing, wholesome, and developmentally appropriate food be provided, using safe approaches to feeding. Individual written infant feeding plans regarding feeding needs and feeding schedule must be developed for each infant in consultation with the infant’s primary care provider and parents/guardians. Infant feeding plans must be followed until the child turns 16 months old. One (1) child who turned twelve (12) months today, did not have an infant feeding plan on file. The feeding instructions for each infant must include child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. It must also include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. Children's Records - Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important because it demonstrates compliance with the child care rules and ensures the health and safety of each child. Eight (8) children’s records were audited during today’s visit. Each child’s application must be signed and filled out in its entirety. One (1) out of the eight (8) children’s records did not have an application signed by the parent. One (1) out of the eight did not have the medical action plan attached to the application. Seven (7) out of the eight (8) did not include a completed heath care needs section. Each child’s file must include documentation of the receipt of specific requirements. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging the receipt of the Summary of the Law. Eight (8) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of the Parent Participation Plan. Two (2) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of operational policies. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions and one (1) out of the eight did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma policy. None of the children’s records audited included a children’s file checklist. We printed one for your record during the visit. Using the checklist will help you as you receive enrollment paperwork from parents and audit the files for completion prior to signing off. I printed one for your records during the visit. Additional Information: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules (updated 1/1/24) and environmental health rules (updated 7/1/23) in North Carolina, the Items Number Listing (can be used as a detailed checklist of required items) and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Check the designated facility email at least weekly to stay current with communication and email blasts from DCDEE. If your email is not the facility email, sign up for email blasts on the What’s New page for general information and communication from DCDEE. The Tyrrell-Washington Partnership for Children is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on child care issues. Their phone number is (252) 793-5437 or check out their website at www.twpfc.org. Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - New child care rules require child care facilities to test for lead in drinking water, lead paint, and asbestos. Testing is required by 1/1/2025, but enrollment is required by 5/1/2024. Check out the FAQ in the updated Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids. Currently there is funding to pay for the testing and to mitigate lead paint or asbestos hazards. Depending on the age of your home or building and the information you provide in the enrollment process, testing for lead paint and asbestos may not be required. (Lead paint was not used in homes built after 1978. Asbestos was not used in homes after 1988.) Water testing will be required every three years. For more information go to https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ or contact your Environmental Health Specialist. The Healthy Social Behaviors (HSB) Project supports teachers to promote healthy social-emotional development and reduce the expulsion rate among young children in licensed child care centers across North Carolina. The team is made up of specialists with early childhood education backgrounds who are passionate about empowering teachers to develop learning environments and teaching practices that promote prosocial skills in young children. To speak to a Behavior Support Advisor contact 1-888-600-1685 option 1. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, 252-508-5621, Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@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 110-102 · Violation

Name of Operation: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: TAMARIA WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/11/2024 Number Present: 26 Completed Date: 4/11/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 252 Time In: 08:48 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 visit. Lakisha Skinner, Lead Child Care Consultant accompanied me on this visit. V. Brown, assistant administrator assisted me as needed during the visit. V. Brothers-Riddick, administrator, arrived later. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 5/1/2023, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space) and 1 quality point for administrator having at least 10 years of child care administration work experience in a licensed program. The sanitation inspection was completed on 12/13/2023 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 5/8/2023 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 ninety-two percent as of 4/5/24. The facility is currently owned by Educare Learning Center INC and is current-active as of 4/5/24. Please contact me prior to any information changing regarding the owner of this facility. The contact information on the Division of Child Development & Early Education (DCDEE) website was reviewed. It is important to frequently check your email to remain informed about any new changes that have or may occur. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. I visited both indoor and outdoor spaces. Three groups of children were observed today. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play, tummy time, and personal care routines. The classrooms contained materials stored on low-lying shelves. The fenced outdoor play area consisted of a large structure, trikes, and a variety of balls and mobile equipment. Lunch was served and consisted of meatballs, spinach, honey dew melons, bread, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging the receipt of the Summary of the Law GS 110-102 201 A room was occupied by more children than the space allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. Space four(5) holds a capacity of five(5) children. Today nine(9) children were present. GS 110-91(6); .1401(f) 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. Today one (1) staff member exited classroom space three(3) to retrieve paper towels and toilet tissue leaving (1) staff member in the classroom space with thirteen (13) children that were ranging in ages two(2) to five(5) years old. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. While transitioning from outdoor play, three(3) unaccompanied children walked away from the group into unoccupied space two(2). .1801(a)(1-5) 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In one(1) out of five(5) classrooms monitored a staff/child ratio poster was not available. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not available in space four(4). GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 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. One (1) child who turned twelve (12) months today, did not have an infant feeding plan on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. Four(4) cribs located in space one(1) were not labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. During today’s inspection of the outdoor learning environment the grass is overgrown and grass was emerging throughout the sand surfacing. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(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. A tube of Kwik Seal Adhesive Caulk was located in an unlocked cabinet in space two(2). .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Today a tube of Desitin Maximum Strength and a tube of Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play SPF 100 sunscreen did not have authorization forms. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & 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. Unoccupied space two(2) contained new child size chairs that were covered in plastic. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. For the weeks of March 26-29, 2024; April 1-5, 2024; and April 8-10, 2024 safe sleep charts were not available for review for the three children enrolled in classroom space one(1). .0606(g) 1207 Parent participation plan was not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day of attendance and/or a copy was not given to them or posted in the center. Eight (8) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of the Parent Participation Plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0515(a) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Two (2) out of the eight files reviewed did not have an immunization report available for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. (1) out of the eight did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the discipline policy. .1804(c) 1832 Application did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. Seven (7) out of the eight (8) files reviewed did not include a completed heath care needs section. .0801 (a)(5) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One (1) out of the eight files reviewed did not have the medical action plan attached to the application. .0801(b) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. Three (3) out of the eight (8) files reviewed. did not include notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions. .0604(j) 1871 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with parents of currently enrolled children 0-5 within 30 days of adopting the policy. One (1) out of the eight files reviewed did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma policy. .0608(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 4/25/2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Tamaria.williams@dhhs.nc.gov When you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Staff/Child Ratio- Research has verified that staff-child ratios and group sizes are important quality indicators. Staff-child ratio refers to the maximum number of children who may be supervised by one staff member. Today one (1) staff member exited classroom space three(3) to retrieve paper towels and toilet tissue leaving (1) staff member in the classroom space with thirteen (13) children that were ranging in ages two(2) to five(5) years old. Review staff/child ratios requirements with your staff, and develop procedures to follow in order to stay in compliance with child care rules. Ensure that each classroom has a staff/child ratio poster posted. In addition, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Supervision-Supervising children is a critical component of ensuring the safety and well-being of all children. Active supervision requires focused attention and intentional observation of children at all times. Staff must be actively engaged at all times for this to occur. Today while transitioning from outdoor play, three(3) unaccompanied children walked away from the group into unoccupied space two(2). You must always be positioned so all children can be supervised at all times: watching and listening at all times. Regular counting (or use of active supervision) will reduce opportunities for a child to become separated from the group. In addition, a follow-up visit will be made. Outdoor Environment-The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children are able to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. Proper maintenance is a key factor when trying to ensure a safe play environment for children. Outdoor areas should be kept free of excessive high grass. During today’s inspection of the outdoor learning environment, grass is overgrown. Fall zones are used to protect children from serious injury during play. Grass was emerging throughout the sand surfacing which impacts the absorbency of the surfacing. Regular maintenance is required to reduce the emergence of grass from the sand surfacing. Plastic Bags - Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. According to Caring for Our Children, 3rd edition, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has received average annual reports of twenty-five deaths per year to children due to suffocation from plastic bags. In child care facilities, plastic bags should be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. Unoccupied space two(2) contained new child size chairs that were covered in plastic. To make plastic inaccessible to children less than three years old, store them above five feet from the finished floor. Post a reminder in the hallway to remind teachers of this child care requirement. Storage of Hazardous Items - Intentional planning of the environment ensures a safe environment has been created which prevents and reduces injuries to young children. A tube of Kwik Seal Adhesive Caulk was located in space two(2) inside of an unlocked cabinet located above the sink. You reminded staff of proper storage requirements. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. Caregivers/teachers must be diligent in their adherence to the medication administration policy and procedures to prevent any inadvertent medication errors, which may be harmful to the child. There is always a risk that a child may have a negative reaction to a medication, and children should be monitored for serious side effects that may require an emergency response. Today a tube of Desitin Maximum Strength and a tube of Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play SPF 100 sunscreen did not have authorization forms. Review medications prior to use to ensure required documents are on file. Safe Sleep: Documenting the supervision that is provided for sleeping infants is one way to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The use of sleep charts is identified in your center’s ITS-SIDS policy. Sleep charts are part of the center’s program records and must be kept on file and available for review. For the weeks of March 26-29, 2024; April 1-5, 2024; and April 8-10, 2024 safe sleep charts were not available for review for the three children enrolled in classroom space one(1). Check sleep charts at the end of the shift to ensure they are completed daily for infants in care. Infant Feeding Plan - Growth and development during infancy require that nourishing, wholesome, and developmentally appropriate food be provided, using safe approaches to feeding. Individual written infant feeding plans regarding feeding needs and feeding schedule must be developed for each infant in consultation with the infant’s primary care provider and parents/guardians. Infant feeding plans must be followed until the child turns 16 months old. One (1) child who turned twelve (12) months today, did not have an infant feeding plan on file. The feeding instructions for each infant must include child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. It must also include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. Children's Records - Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important because it demonstrates compliance with the child care rules and ensures the health and safety of each child. Eight (8) children’s records were audited during today’s visit. Each child’s application must be signed and filled out in its entirety. One (1) out of the eight (8) children’s records did not have an application signed by the parent. One (1) out of the eight did not have the medical action plan attached to the application. Seven (7) out of the eight (8) did not include a completed heath care needs section. Each child’s file must include documentation of the receipt of specific requirements. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging the receipt of the Summary of the Law. Eight (8) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of the Parent Participation Plan. Two (2) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of operational policies. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions and one (1) out of the eight did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma policy. None of the children’s records audited included a children’s file checklist. We printed one for your record during the visit. Using the checklist will help you as you receive enrollment paperwork from parents and audit the files for completion prior to signing off. I printed one for your records during the visit. Additional Information: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules (updated 1/1/24) and environmental health rules (updated 7/1/23) in North Carolina, the Items Number Listing (can be used as a detailed checklist of required items) and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Check the designated facility email at least weekly to stay current with communication and email blasts from DCDEE. If your email is not the facility email, sign up for email blasts on the What’s New page for general information and communication from DCDEE. The Tyrrell-Washington Partnership for Children is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on child care issues. Their phone number is (252) 793-5437 or check out their website at www.twpfc.org. Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - New child care rules require child care facilities to test for lead in drinking water, lead paint, and asbestos. Testing is required by 1/1/2025, but enrollment is required by 5/1/2024. Check out the FAQ in the updated Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids. Currently there is funding to pay for the testing and to mitigate lead paint or asbestos hazards. Depending on the age of your home or building and the information you provide in the enrollment process, testing for lead paint and asbestos may not be required. (Lead paint was not used in homes built after 1978. Asbestos was not used in homes after 1988.) Water testing will be required every three years. For more information go to https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ or contact your Environmental Health Specialist. The Healthy Social Behaviors (HSB) Project supports teachers to promote healthy social-emotional development and reduce the expulsion rate among young children in licensed child care centers across North Carolina. The team is made up of specialists with early childhood education backgrounds who are passionate about empowering teachers to develop learning environments and teaching practices that promote prosocial skills in young children. To speak to a Behavior Support Advisor contact 1-888-600-1685 option 1. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, 252-508-5621, Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@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: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: TAMARIA WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/11/2024 Number Present: 26 Completed Date: 4/11/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 252 Time In: 08:48 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 visit. Lakisha Skinner, Lead Child Care Consultant accompanied me on this visit. V. Brown, assistant administrator assisted me as needed during the visit. V. Brothers-Riddick, administrator, arrived later. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 5/1/2023, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space) and 1 quality point for administrator having at least 10 years of child care administration work experience in a licensed program. The sanitation inspection was completed on 12/13/2023 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 5/8/2023 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 ninety-two percent as of 4/5/24. The facility is currently owned by Educare Learning Center INC and is current-active as of 4/5/24. Please contact me prior to any information changing regarding the owner of this facility. The contact information on the Division of Child Development & Early Education (DCDEE) website was reviewed. It is important to frequently check your email to remain informed about any new changes that have or may occur. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. I visited both indoor and outdoor spaces. Three groups of children were observed today. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play, tummy time, and personal care routines. The classrooms contained materials stored on low-lying shelves. The fenced outdoor play area consisted of a large structure, trikes, and a variety of balls and mobile equipment. Lunch was served and consisted of meatballs, spinach, honey dew melons, bread, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging the receipt of the Summary of the Law GS 110-102 201 A room was occupied by more children than the space allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. Space four(5) holds a capacity of five(5) children. Today nine(9) children were present. GS 110-91(6); .1401(f) 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. Today one (1) staff member exited classroom space three(3) to retrieve paper towels and toilet tissue leaving (1) staff member in the classroom space with thirteen (13) children that were ranging in ages two(2) to five(5) years old. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. While transitioning from outdoor play, three(3) unaccompanied children walked away from the group into unoccupied space two(2). .1801(a)(1-5) 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In one(1) out of five(5) classrooms monitored a staff/child ratio poster was not available. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not available in space four(4). GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 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. One (1) child who turned twelve (12) months today, did not have an infant feeding plan on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. Four(4) cribs located in space one(1) were not labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. During today’s inspection of the outdoor learning environment the grass is overgrown and grass was emerging throughout the sand surfacing. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(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. A tube of Kwik Seal Adhesive Caulk was located in an unlocked cabinet in space two(2). .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Today a tube of Desitin Maximum Strength and a tube of Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play SPF 100 sunscreen did not have authorization forms. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & 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. Unoccupied space two(2) contained new child size chairs that were covered in plastic. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. For the weeks of March 26-29, 2024; April 1-5, 2024; and April 8-10, 2024 safe sleep charts were not available for review for the three children enrolled in classroom space one(1). .0606(g) 1207 Parent participation plan was not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day of attendance and/or a copy was not given to them or posted in the center. Eight (8) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of the Parent Participation Plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0515(a) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Two (2) out of the eight files reviewed did not have an immunization report available for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. (1) out of the eight did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the discipline policy. .1804(c) 1832 Application did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. Seven (7) out of the eight (8) files reviewed did not include a completed heath care needs section. .0801 (a)(5) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One (1) out of the eight files reviewed did not have the medical action plan attached to the application. .0801(b) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. Three (3) out of the eight (8) files reviewed. did not include notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions. .0604(j) 1871 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with parents of currently enrolled children 0-5 within 30 days of adopting the policy. One (1) out of the eight files reviewed did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma policy. .0608(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 4/25/2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Tamaria.williams@dhhs.nc.gov When you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Staff/Child Ratio- Research has verified that staff-child ratios and group sizes are important quality indicators. Staff-child ratio refers to the maximum number of children who may be supervised by one staff member. Today one (1) staff member exited classroom space three(3) to retrieve paper towels and toilet tissue leaving (1) staff member in the classroom space with thirteen (13) children that were ranging in ages two(2) to five(5) years old. Review staff/child ratios requirements with your staff, and develop procedures to follow in order to stay in compliance with child care rules. Ensure that each classroom has a staff/child ratio poster posted. In addition, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Supervision-Supervising children is a critical component of ensuring the safety and well-being of all children. Active supervision requires focused attention and intentional observation of children at all times. Staff must be actively engaged at all times for this to occur. Today while transitioning from outdoor play, three(3) unaccompanied children walked away from the group into unoccupied space two(2). You must always be positioned so all children can be supervised at all times: watching and listening at all times. Regular counting (or use of active supervision) will reduce opportunities for a child to become separated from the group. In addition, a follow-up visit will be made. Outdoor Environment-The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children are able to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. Proper maintenance is a key factor when trying to ensure a safe play environment for children. Outdoor areas should be kept free of excessive high grass. During today’s inspection of the outdoor learning environment, grass is overgrown. Fall zones are used to protect children from serious injury during play. Grass was emerging throughout the sand surfacing which impacts the absorbency of the surfacing. Regular maintenance is required to reduce the emergence of grass from the sand surfacing. Plastic Bags - Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. According to Caring for Our Children, 3rd edition, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has received average annual reports of twenty-five deaths per year to children due to suffocation from plastic bags. In child care facilities, plastic bags should be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. Unoccupied space two(2) contained new child size chairs that were covered in plastic. To make plastic inaccessible to children less than three years old, store them above five feet from the finished floor. Post a reminder in the hallway to remind teachers of this child care requirement. Storage of Hazardous Items - Intentional planning of the environment ensures a safe environment has been created which prevents and reduces injuries to young children. A tube of Kwik Seal Adhesive Caulk was located in space two(2) inside of an unlocked cabinet located above the sink. You reminded staff of proper storage requirements. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. Caregivers/teachers must be diligent in their adherence to the medication administration policy and procedures to prevent any inadvertent medication errors, which may be harmful to the child. There is always a risk that a child may have a negative reaction to a medication, and children should be monitored for serious side effects that may require an emergency response. Today a tube of Desitin Maximum Strength and a tube of Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play SPF 100 sunscreen did not have authorization forms. Review medications prior to use to ensure required documents are on file. Safe Sleep: Documenting the supervision that is provided for sleeping infants is one way to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The use of sleep charts is identified in your center’s ITS-SIDS policy. Sleep charts are part of the center’s program records and must be kept on file and available for review. For the weeks of March 26-29, 2024; April 1-5, 2024; and April 8-10, 2024 safe sleep charts were not available for review for the three children enrolled in classroom space one(1). Check sleep charts at the end of the shift to ensure they are completed daily for infants in care. Infant Feeding Plan - Growth and development during infancy require that nourishing, wholesome, and developmentally appropriate food be provided, using safe approaches to feeding. Individual written infant feeding plans regarding feeding needs and feeding schedule must be developed for each infant in consultation with the infant’s primary care provider and parents/guardians. Infant feeding plans must be followed until the child turns 16 months old. One (1) child who turned twelve (12) months today, did not have an infant feeding plan on file. The feeding instructions for each infant must include child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. It must also include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. Children's Records - Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important because it demonstrates compliance with the child care rules and ensures the health and safety of each child. Eight (8) children’s records were audited during today’s visit. Each child’s application must be signed and filled out in its entirety. One (1) out of the eight (8) children’s records did not have an application signed by the parent. One (1) out of the eight did not have the medical action plan attached to the application. Seven (7) out of the eight (8) did not include a completed heath care needs section. Each child’s file must include documentation of the receipt of specific requirements. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging the receipt of the Summary of the Law. Eight (8) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of the Parent Participation Plan. Two (2) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of operational policies. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions and one (1) out of the eight did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma policy. None of the children’s records audited included a children’s file checklist. We printed one for your record during the visit. Using the checklist will help you as you receive enrollment paperwork from parents and audit the files for completion prior to signing off. I printed one for your records during the visit. Additional Information: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules (updated 1/1/24) and environmental health rules (updated 7/1/23) in North Carolina, the Items Number Listing (can be used as a detailed checklist of required items) and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Check the designated facility email at least weekly to stay current with communication and email blasts from DCDEE. If your email is not the facility email, sign up for email blasts on the What’s New page for general information and communication from DCDEE. The Tyrrell-Washington Partnership for Children is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on child care issues. Their phone number is (252) 793-5437 or check out their website at www.twpfc.org. Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - New child care rules require child care facilities to test for lead in drinking water, lead paint, and asbestos. Testing is required by 1/1/2025, but enrollment is required by 5/1/2024. Check out the FAQ in the updated Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids. Currently there is funding to pay for the testing and to mitigate lead paint or asbestos hazards. Depending on the age of your home or building and the information you provide in the enrollment process, testing for lead paint and asbestos may not be required. (Lead paint was not used in homes built after 1978. Asbestos was not used in homes after 1988.) Water testing will be required every three years. For more information go to https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ or contact your Environmental Health Specialist. The Healthy Social Behaviors (HSB) Project supports teachers to promote healthy social-emotional development and reduce the expulsion rate among young children in licensed child care centers across North Carolina. The team is made up of specialists with early childhood education backgrounds who are passionate about empowering teachers to develop learning environments and teaching practices that promote prosocial skills in young children. To speak to a Behavior Support Advisor contact 1-888-600-1685 option 1. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, 252-508-5621, Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@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: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: TAMARIA WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 4/11/2024 Number Present: 26 Completed Date: 4/11/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 252 Time In: 08:48 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 visit. Lakisha Skinner, Lead Child Care Consultant accompanied me on this visit. V. Brown, assistant administrator assisted me as needed during the visit. V. Brothers-Riddick, administrator, arrived later. Your program currently operates with a four-star license, issued 5/1/2023, earning 7 points in the education component, 2 points in the program standards component (meeting enhanced space) and 1 quality point for administrator having at least 10 years of child care administration work experience in a licensed program. The sanitation inspection was completed on 12/13/2023 with a “Superior” classification. The last fire inspection was conducted 5/8/2023 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 ninety-two percent as of 4/5/24. The facility is currently owned by Educare Learning Center INC and is current-active as of 4/5/24. Please contact me prior to any information changing regarding the owner of this facility. The contact information on the Division of Child Development & Early Education (DCDEE) website was reviewed. It is important to frequently check your email to remain informed about any new changes that have or may occur. A walk-through of the facility was completed today. I visited both indoor and outdoor spaces. Three groups of children were observed today. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play, tummy time, and personal care routines. The classrooms contained materials stored on low-lying shelves. The fenced outdoor play area consisted of a large structure, trikes, and a variety of balls and mobile equipment. Lunch was served and consisted of meatballs, spinach, honey dew melons, bread, and milk. The following violations were documented. Violation Number Comment Rule 114 A summary of the NC Child Care Law was not given to a parent of every child enrolled in the center. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging the receipt of the Summary of the Law GS 110-102 201 A room was occupied by more children than the space allowed at 25-sq. ft. of floor space per child. Space four(5) holds a capacity of five(5) children. Today nine(9) children were present. GS 110-91(6); .1401(f) 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. Today one (1) staff member exited classroom space three(3) to retrieve paper towels and toilet tissue leaving (1) staff member in the classroom space with thirteen (13) children that were ranging in ages two(2) to five(5) years old. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. While transitioning from outdoor play, three(3) unaccompanied children walked away from the group into unoccupied space two(2). .1801(a)(1-5) 319 Staff/child ratios applicable to a classroom, were not posted in each classroom. In one(1) out of five(5) classrooms monitored a staff/child ratio poster was not available. .0713(a)(10), (c) & (f)(3); .2818(e) 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. A current activity plan was not available in space four(4). GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 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. One (1) child who turned twelve (12) months today, did not have an infant feeding plan on file. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(a) 612 Each child's bed, cot, or 2" mat was not individually assigned and identified. Four(4) cribs located in space one(1) were not labeled. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(b) & (c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. During today’s inspection of the outdoor learning environment the grass is overgrown and grass was emerging throughout the sand surfacing. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(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. A tube of Kwik Seal Adhesive Caulk was located in an unlocked cabinet in space two(2). .2820(b) 842 A drug or medication was administered without written authorization and/or instructions from a child's parent or authorized health professional. Today a tube of Desitin Maximum Strength and a tube of Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play SPF 100 sunscreen did not have authorization forms. 10A NCAC 09 .0803(1)(a & 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. Unoccupied space two(2) contained new child size chairs that were covered in plastic. .0604(q) 887 Caregivers did not document compliance with visually checking on sleeping infants aged 12 months or younger and/or the documents were not maintained for a minimum of one month. For the weeks of March 26-29, 2024; April 1-5, 2024; and April 8-10, 2024 safe sleep charts were not available for review for the three children enrolled in classroom space one(1). .0606(g) 1207 Parent participation plan was not discussed with parents on or before the child's first day of attendance and/or a copy was not given to them or posted in the center. Eight (8) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of the Parent Participation Plan. 10A NCAC 09 .0515(a) 1323 Each child was not immunized as per Article 6 of Chapter 130A and an immunization record was not on file before or within 30 days after admission. Two (2) out of the eight files reviewed did not have an immunization report available for review. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(2) 1324 Signed and dated statement by parent that discipline policy received and explained at enrollment was not in child's file. (1) out of the eight did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the discipline policy. .1804(c) 1832 Application did not include health care needs or concerns, symptoms of and the type of response required for the health care needs or concerns. Seven (7) out of the eight (8) files reviewed did not include a completed heath care needs section. .0801 (a)(5) 1834 Application did not have a medical action plan attached for any child with health care needs such as allergies, asthma, or other chronic conditions that require specialized health services. One (1) out of the eight files reviewed did not have the medical action plan attached to the application. .0801(b) 1851 The operator did not notify the parent of each child enrolled in writing of the smoking and tobacco restriction. Three (3) out of the eight (8) files reviewed. did not include notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions. .0604(j) 1871 The Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma policy was not reviewed with parents of currently enrolled children 0-5 within 30 days of adopting the policy. One (1) out of the eight files reviewed did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma policy. .0608(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before 4/25/2024, I must receive a written, dated, and signed compliance letter that describes accurately and in detail, how and when the violations were corrected. Please be aware any information submitted by you is legal documentation. If it is determined the information provided in the letter is not true, this may be considered falsification of information. If sufficient information is not received by the due date, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Email the information to: Tamaria.williams@dhhs.nc.gov When you email the compliance letter, it must be sent from the email address on file with DCDEE (this serves as your signature) and the following information must be included: name, position, facility name, and facility ID number. An example is: Jane Doe, Administrator AAA Child Care ID # 12345678 Technical Assistance: Staff/Child Ratio- Research has verified that staff-child ratios and group sizes are important quality indicators. Staff-child ratio refers to the maximum number of children who may be supervised by one staff member. Today one (1) staff member exited classroom space three(3) to retrieve paper towels and toilet tissue leaving (1) staff member in the classroom space with thirteen (13) children that were ranging in ages two(2) to five(5) years old. Review staff/child ratios requirements with your staff, and develop procedures to follow in order to stay in compliance with child care rules. Ensure that each classroom has a staff/child ratio poster posted. In addition, a follow-up visit will be conducted. Supervision-Supervising children is a critical component of ensuring the safety and well-being of all children. Active supervision requires focused attention and intentional observation of children at all times. Staff must be actively engaged at all times for this to occur. Today while transitioning from outdoor play, three(3) unaccompanied children walked away from the group into unoccupied space two(2). You must always be positioned so all children can be supervised at all times: watching and listening at all times. Regular counting (or use of active supervision) will reduce opportunities for a child to become separated from the group. In addition, a follow-up visit will be made. Outdoor Environment-The outdoor learning environment offers a sense of freedom for children. Children are able to play freely with peers, expand their imagination beyond restraints of indoor activities, release energy and explore their sense of touch, smell, taste and their sense of motion. It is important that the outdoor area is checked daily and proper upkeep is conducted to ensure the environment is safe for use. Proper maintenance is a key factor when trying to ensure a safe play environment for children. Outdoor areas should be kept free of excessive high grass. During today’s inspection of the outdoor learning environment, grass is overgrown. Fall zones are used to protect children from serious injury during play. Grass was emerging throughout the sand surfacing which impacts the absorbency of the surfacing. Regular maintenance is required to reduce the emergence of grass from the sand surfacing. Plastic Bags - Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. According to Caring for Our Children, 3rd edition, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has received average annual reports of twenty-five deaths per year to children due to suffocation from plastic bags. In child care facilities, plastic bags should be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. Unoccupied space two(2) contained new child size chairs that were covered in plastic. To make plastic inaccessible to children less than three years old, store them above five feet from the finished floor. Post a reminder in the hallway to remind teachers of this child care requirement. Storage of Hazardous Items - Intentional planning of the environment ensures a safe environment has been created which prevents and reduces injuries to young children. A tube of Kwik Seal Adhesive Caulk was located in space two(2) inside of an unlocked cabinet located above the sink. You reminded staff of proper storage requirements. Medication: Administering medication requires skill, knowledge and careful attention to detail. Parents/guardians and prescribing health professionals must give a caregiver/teacher written authorization to administer medication to the child. Caregivers/teachers must be diligent in their adherence to the medication administration policy and procedures to prevent any inadvertent medication errors, which may be harmful to the child. There is always a risk that a child may have a negative reaction to a medication, and children should be monitored for serious side effects that may require an emergency response. Today a tube of Desitin Maximum Strength and a tube of Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play SPF 100 sunscreen did not have authorization forms. Review medications prior to use to ensure required documents are on file. Safe Sleep: Documenting the supervision that is provided for sleeping infants is one way to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The use of sleep charts is identified in your center’s ITS-SIDS policy. Sleep charts are part of the center’s program records and must be kept on file and available for review. For the weeks of March 26-29, 2024; April 1-5, 2024; and April 8-10, 2024 safe sleep charts were not available for review for the three children enrolled in classroom space one(1). Check sleep charts at the end of the shift to ensure they are completed daily for infants in care. Infant Feeding Plan - Growth and development during infancy require that nourishing, wholesome, and developmentally appropriate food be provided, using safe approaches to feeding. Individual written infant feeding plans regarding feeding needs and feeding schedule must be developed for each infant in consultation with the infant’s primary care provider and parents/guardians. Infant feeding plans must be followed until the child turns 16 months old. One (1) child who turned twelve (12) months today, did not have an infant feeding plan on file. The feeding instructions for each infant must include child's name, be signed by the parent or health care provider, and be dated when received by the center. It must also include the type and amount of milk, formula and food, the frequency of feedings and be posted for reference by the caregivers. Children's Records - Maintaining accurate documentation at the child care center is important because it demonstrates compliance with the child care rules and ensures the health and safety of each child. Eight (8) children’s records were audited during today’s visit. Each child’s application must be signed and filled out in its entirety. One (1) out of the eight (8) children’s records did not have an application signed by the parent. One (1) out of the eight did not have the medical action plan attached to the application. Seven (7) out of the eight (8) did not include a completed heath care needs section. Each child’s file must include documentation of the receipt of specific requirements. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include a signed and dated statement by the parent acknowledging the receipt of the Summary of the Law. Eight (8) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of the Parent Participation Plan. Two (2) out of the eight (8) did not include receipt of the discussion of operational policies. Three (3) out of the eight (8) did not include notification of smoking and tobacco restrictions and one (1) out of the eight did not include a signed and dated statement of the receipt of the prevention of shaken baby and abusive head trauma policy. None of the children’s records audited included a children’s file checklist. We printed one for your record during the visit. Using the checklist will help you as you receive enrollment paperwork from parents and audit the files for completion prior to signing off. I printed one for your records during the visit. Additional Information: Be knowledgeable of the child care laws and rules and environmental health rules; review them with your staff and assist them with understanding and implementing them to maintain compliance and keep children safe and healthy. The most recent versions of child care laws and rules (updated 1/1/24) and environmental health rules (updated 7/1/23) in North Carolina, the Items Number Listing (can be used as a detailed checklist of required items) and What’s New information are available on the DCDEE website, www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Check the designated facility email at least weekly to stay current with communication and email blasts from DCDEE. If your email is not the facility email, sign up for email blasts on the What’s New page for general information and communication from DCDEE. The Tyrrell-Washington Partnership for Children is also able to provide you with resources and information, training opportunities, technical assistance on child care issues. Their phone number is (252) 793-5437 or check out their website at www.twpfc.org. Required Water, Lead Paint, and Asbestos Testing - New child care rules require child care facilities to test for lead in drinking water, lead paint, and asbestos. Testing is required by 1/1/2025, but enrollment is required by 5/1/2024. Check out the FAQ in the updated Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids. Currently there is funding to pay for the testing and to mitigate lead paint or asbestos hazards. Depending on the age of your home or building and the information you provide in the enrollment process, testing for lead paint and asbestos may not be required. (Lead paint was not used in homes built after 1978. Asbestos was not used in homes after 1988.) Water testing will be required every three years. For more information go to https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ or contact your Environmental Health Specialist. The Healthy Social Behaviors (HSB) Project supports teachers to promote healthy social-emotional development and reduce the expulsion rate among young children in licensed child care centers across North Carolina. The team is made up of specialists with early childhood education backgrounds who are passionate about empowering teachers to develop learning environments and teaching practices that promote prosocial skills in young children. To speak to a Behavior Support Advisor contact 1-888-600-1685 option 1. For the latest information on child care rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, 252-508-5621, Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@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: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: TAMARIA WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/28/2023 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 8/28/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor your program for compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the second temporary time period visit. V. Brown, assist director assisted as needed with the visit. This facility was issued a temporary license on May 1, 2023 due to a change of ownership to operate 1st and 2nd shifts caring for 61 children, ages 0 -12 years old. Each classroom, the outdoor learning environment, a sample of staff files, a sampling of children’s files, and other required program records were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play. Developmentally appropriate toys were available on low-lying open shelves. Children transitioned to personal care routines to prepare for lunch. Lunch was served and consisted of baked chicken legs, collard greens, sweet potatoes, sliced bread, and milk. Violation Number Comment Rule 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. An outlet located by the handwashing sink did not have a safety plug. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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 pack of Parent's Choice diapers was located in the unlocked cabinet below the changing table. .0604(q) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. Technical Assistance on Violations: Electrical Outlets- Approximately 2,400 children are injured annually by inserting objects into the slots of electrical outlets. An outlet located by the handwashing sink did not have a safety plug. All electrical outlets not in use that are in areas accessible to children must be protected with an outlet cover. This includes unused outlets on power strips. You will need to conduct daily inspections of your classroom and other areas accessible to the children to ensure that all outlets are covered. This violation was corrected during the visit. Plastic Bags - Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. According to Caring for Our Children, 3rd edition, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has received average annual reports of twenty-five deaths per year to children due to suffocation from plastic bags. In child care facilities, plastic bags should be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. To make plastic bags inaccessible to children less than three years old, store them above five feet from the finished floor. This was corrected during the visit. TA in preparation for the ERS: Proper materials engage children in a wide range of play, alone and with others. Children gain confidence as they make their own plans and choose materials, they are interested in. An environment that encourages children to make their own choices helps them feel safe, valued, adventurous, competent, and confident to take initiative. A variety of developmentally appropriate materials encourages children to use their imagination and learn to cooperate with others. Learning environments for young children should be rich with a wide variety of teacher made, recycled materials and store-bought items children can explore, transform, and combine. Spaces for young children should be equipped to promote hands-on, active learning. The quantity of an item is as important as the item itself. There should be enough materials in each area or center so at least three children can play with the same materials at the same time. Providing enough materials will reduce classroom management issues and enhance learning opportunities. Hanging Items: There should be at least 2 items hung/suspended in air in each of the spaces for children 2.5 years and younger. Staff should bring attention to the items and discuss with the children throughout the day. We discussed hanging the items in the routine care areas such as above the sink and the diaper changing table so all children have guaranteed access. Additional Reminders: New Criminal Background Check Changes – Legislative changes approved on 7/11/2022 made two important changes to Criminal Background Checks required for child care professionals: 1. The period for background check qualification renewals was changed from every 3 years to every 5 years 2. The provisional qualification period was reduced to 45 days The Division intends to implement these changes as soon as possible. An individual’s current Qualification Letter (QL) will be extended 2 years for a total of 5 years. Updated letters will not be generated. Individuals with a Provisional Qualification Letter due to an out-of-state check will received a qualifying letter on the 45th day. Letters are generated in the CBC Portal. Public Health Toolkit Updates - The ChildCareStrongNC Public Health Toolkit for Child Care (updated 7/6/2022) available on the DHHS website, and sent to your facility contact email, provides guidance on requirements and recommendations to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in child care facilities. If you have questions about COVID-19, an exposure, or exclusion policies, contact the Child Care Health Consultant assigned to your county and/or your local health department. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, 252-508-5621, Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@dhhs.nc.gov if you have questions. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: EDUCARE LEARNING CENTER INC Facility ID: 94000133 Consultant: TAMARIA WILLIAMS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/28/2023 Number Present: 19 Completed Date: 8/28/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 300 Time In: 09:00 AM Time Out: 02:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's visit was to monitor your program for compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the second temporary time period visit. V. Brown, assist director assisted as needed with the visit. This facility was issued a temporary license on May 1, 2023 due to a change of ownership to operate 1st and 2nd shifts caring for 61 children, ages 0 -12 years old. Each classroom, the outdoor learning environment, a sample of staff files, a sampling of children’s files, and other required program records were monitored. Children throughout the center were engaged in free play. Developmentally appropriate toys were available on low-lying open shelves. Children transitioned to personal care routines to prepare for lunch. Lunch was served and consisted of baked chicken legs, collard greens, sweet potatoes, sliced bread, and milk. Violation Number Comment Rule 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. An outlet located by the handwashing sink did not have a safety plug. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 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 pack of Parent's Choice diapers was located in the unlocked cabinet below the changing table. .0604(q) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. Technical Assistance on Violations: Electrical Outlets- Approximately 2,400 children are injured annually by inserting objects into the slots of electrical outlets. An outlet located by the handwashing sink did not have a safety plug. All electrical outlets not in use that are in areas accessible to children must be protected with an outlet cover. This includes unused outlets on power strips. You will need to conduct daily inspections of your classroom and other areas accessible to the children to ensure that all outlets are covered. This violation was corrected during the visit. Plastic Bags - Plastic bags have been recognized for many years as a suffocation hazard. According to Caring for Our Children, 3rd edition, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has received average annual reports of twenty-five deaths per year to children due to suffocation from plastic bags. In child care facilities, plastic bags should be made inaccessible to children less than three years of age. To make plastic bags inaccessible to children less than three years old, store them above five feet from the finished floor. This was corrected during the visit. TA in preparation for the ERS: Proper materials engage children in a wide range of play, alone and with others. Children gain confidence as they make their own plans and choose materials, they are interested in. An environment that encourages children to make their own choices helps them feel safe, valued, adventurous, competent, and confident to take initiative. A variety of developmentally appropriate materials encourages children to use their imagination and learn to cooperate with others. Learning environments for young children should be rich with a wide variety of teacher made, recycled materials and store-bought items children can explore, transform, and combine. Spaces for young children should be equipped to promote hands-on, active learning. The quantity of an item is as important as the item itself. There should be enough materials in each area or center so at least three children can play with the same materials at the same time. Providing enough materials will reduce classroom management issues and enhance learning opportunities. Hanging Items: There should be at least 2 items hung/suspended in air in each of the spaces for children 2.5 years and younger. Staff should bring attention to the items and discuss with the children throughout the day. We discussed hanging the items in the routine care areas such as above the sink and the diaper changing table so all children have guaranteed access. Additional Reminders: New Criminal Background Check Changes – Legislative changes approved on 7/11/2022 made two important changes to Criminal Background Checks required for child care professionals: 1. The period for background check qualification renewals was changed from every 3 years to every 5 years 2. The provisional qualification period was reduced to 45 days The Division intends to implement these changes as soon as possible. An individual’s current Qualification Letter (QL) will be extended 2 years for a total of 5 years. Updated letters will not be generated. Individuals with a Provisional Qualification Letter due to an out-of-state check will received a qualifying letter on the 45th day. Letters are generated in the CBC Portal. Public Health Toolkit Updates - The ChildCareStrongNC Public Health Toolkit for Child Care (updated 7/6/2022) available on the DHHS website, and sent to your facility contact email, provides guidance on requirements and recommendations to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in child care facilities. If you have questions about COVID-19, an exposure, or exclusion policies, contact the Child Care Health Consultant assigned to your county and/or your local health department. At the completion of the visit, this visit summary was printed, reviewed, and a copy was left with you. Contact me at Tamaria Williams, Child Care Consultant, 252-508-5621, Tamaria.Williams@dhhs.nc.gov or Jennifer Linhardt, Licensing Supervisor, 252-373-4199, Jennifer.Linhardt@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