G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE LEARNER'S DAYCARE Facility ID: 71000130 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 12/2/2025 Number Present: 3 Completed Date: 12/2/2025 Age: From 3 To 3 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 04:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s annual compliance visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This program currently operates with a Five Star License, issued April 16, 2020. Restrictions include: a capacity of 8, age range of 0-12, daytime and overnight, max. of 5 preschool children at any time and serve no more than 2 children under age one. The last annual compliance was conducted on December 4, 2024. As of today, the facility had an 18-month compliance history of 99%. 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. Owner/Operator, Jamie Johnson, was present and available for consultation. All spaces used by the children were monitored. Ms. Johnson has a room set up exclusively for child care. The bathroom is located in close proximity to the child care room. Appropriate toys and furnishings are available. Activity plan, containing evidence that you are using the North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning, and daily schedule were observed posted. There are eight children, including three school age children, enrolled, there were three children, all aged 3, were present today. All children were observing nap/rest time. Children were observed napping/resting on covered cots with blankets. When children woke up from nap, bathroom and handwashing routines were completed. Children were observed participating inf free choice activities. Free choice activities included blocks, dramatic play, puzzles, and writing activities. School age children arrived, and all children had snack; snack consisted of cheese crackers and milk. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers and children interacted in a positive and appropriate manner. The operator’s adult daughter, Quanisha James, was present and assisted Ms. Johnson with caring for the children. Ms. Johnson’s husband, W. Johnson was present in the house during the time of the visit. The paperwork for Ms. James and Mr. Johnson is on file and available for review. Nephew, L. Johnson, age 16, is living between this residence and his great aunt house. He was not present today and Ms. Johnson states he will remain at the great aunt’s house until qualifying letter is received. Ms. Johnson stated she is in the process of completing the criminal background check for her nephew. There were eight violations observed today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required. Violation Number Comment Rule 905 Record of monthly fire drills, giving the date, time of day and length of time to evacuate, and operator's signature, were not available. This information was not available during today's visit. .1721 (e )(2) 907 Written record of up-to-date pet vaccinations as required by NC law and local ordinances, including rabies vaccination for dogs and cats, was not available. Pet vaccination for dog, Nico, expired 10/04/2025. .1719(b)(1) 919 Accurate records were not maintained for all children. File for new child was missing information - Discipline policy, receipt of the NC Summary of the Law, and No Smoking Policy. G.S. 110-91(9) 930 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years from the date of issuance). Family member did not renew qualifying letter that expired on 09/02/2025. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(n) & (o) 1306 Operator has not completed ITS-SIDS training every three years from the completion date of the previous ITS-SIDS training. ITS-SIDS training expired for operator on 08/16/2025. .1703(a)(4) 1831 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available for review at the facility. Family member did not renew qualifying letter that expired on 09/02/2025. G.S. 110-90.2 (b) & (d) & .2703(e) .1702(b)(1) 1846 An individual over the age of 15, who resides in a family child care home or a center located in a residence on a permanent or temporary basis, or those who had their 16th birthday after the initial licensing of a family child care home; did not complete and submit required forms within five business days. Nephew who resides at this residence occasionally does not have a qualifying letter on file; nephew is 16 years of age. He was not present today and currently residing at the great aunt's home. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(q) 1854 The operator did not conduct a quarterly lockdown or shelter-in-place drill and or the drill record was incomplete. This information was not available during today's visit. .1719(a )(16) & .1721(e )(7) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received by December 16, 2025, describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 Technical assistance regarding violation cited: Qualifying Letter – Q. James has a qualification letter that expired on September 2, 2025, and information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by December 17, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, your facility will be inactive until family member receives qualification letter. N. Johnson, Ms. Johnson’s nephew, age 16, does reside here sometimes but has not completed required forms and receiving criminal background qualification letters through the Division of Child Development and Early Education. Ms. Johnson acknowledged that she was aware of requirements. This individual lives with Ms. Johnson and his great aunt, which is a different location/address. I discussed in detail today and explained he cannot be at your facility and must remain at your great aunt’s house until a qualifying letter has been received. Copies of qualification letter must be submitted to me once completed and received from DCDEE. Please be advised that you cannot have children in care if anyone in the household is disqualified or does not have a valid qualification letter on file. ITS-SIDS Training - All adults who provide care for infants 12 months or younger are required to be trained in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) risk reduction practices. The Infant/Toddler Safe Sleep and SIDS Risk Reduction in Child Care (ITS-SIDS) is the approved training. It prepares child care providers to follow their facility’s safe sleep policy. Complete the ITS-SIDS training again no more than 3 years from the completion of previous ITS-SIDS training. ITS-SIDS training expired for Ms. Johnson on 08/16/2025; Ms. Johnson is registered to complete this training on December 8, 2025 at Smart Start of New Hanover County. Fire Drills - Fire drills shall be practiced monthly, and records shall be maintained as required. Records of monthly fire drills documenting the date and time of each drill, the length of time taken to evacuate the building, and the signature of the person who conducted the drill shall be available for review. Today I suggested marking a date on your calendar so that you can ensure that a fire drill is performed monthly. It may also help to plan these drills for different times of the day so children and staff can be prepared to evacuate no matter activity or routine is taking place. A record of fire drills was not available for review. Emergency Drills - Lockdown or shelter-in-place drills should be practiced at least every three months as part of your facility's EPR plan. These drills should be documented on the Emergency Drill Record. Frequent practice will allow children and staff members to be familiar with the steps to take to keep everyone safe in an emergency. Today I suggested you plan the dates and times of your drills in advance and use calendar reminders to ensure they are completed at least every three months. This information was not available for review during today’s visit. Files – Accurate files must be maintained for all children in care. I strongly urge you to review Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1721 regarding requirements for records. I also suggest you utilize the checklists for staff files, children’s files and program records to ensure you have all required documents. These checklists are available on the DCDEE website under the Provider Documents tab. File for new child did not have all required forms on file and available for review. The written record of up-to-date pet vaccinations as required by NC law and local ordinances, including rabies vaccination for your dog was not available. The pet vaccinations for Roscoe expired October 4, 2025. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Reminder - Technical assistance was also provided during the visit regarding screen time for school-age children. While unlimited screen time is now allowed for the completion of school assignments, screen time usage, not related to school assignments, must be limited to 30 minutes daily. Screen time activities must also meet developmental goals, be offered as a free choice activity only and be documented on a log. Screen time is prohibited for children under three years of age. Other Information - Health & Safety Training – You completed these trainings in December 2022; therefore, you will need to complete these trainings again by December 2027. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database): As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired within five business days. Ms. Johnson has completed the training and is in the process of linking family members to her facility. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on May 16, 2022. • Lead-Based Paint- Exempt N/A • Asbestos- Exempt N/A Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are be posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. •Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. QRIS Modernization: Continuous Quality Improvement (QCI): Applies to Pathway 1 and 2 and applies to 2-5 Star Rated Licenses Today, we discussed individual CQI planning for FCCH Operator that accompanies the Professional Development Plan and the Facility CQI Plan that will be completed by the operator. We reviewed that the CQI Plan includes the following: • Identification of goal(s) • Required Documentation for the goal Family and Community Engagement: Applies to Pathway 1 and 2 and Foundational Practices begin with 2 Star Rated Licenses Today we reviewed all options included in the following Family and Community Engagement Categories • Communication Options • Engagement & Leadership Options • Educational Opportunity Options Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility is choosing Pathway #2, and you plan to apply for a rated license by May 2026. A copy of this template is attached to this visit summary. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming informational settings and working with you on your pathway to the stars! Other Information: 2025 Annual License Fee Invoices: Invoices for the annual license fees were emailed to facilities subject to license fees on November 3, 2025. Please note that annual license fees do not apply to state or public school-operated child care facilities, or to religious-sponsored facilities operating under a Notice of Compliance. Payment Information: Payments are due by December 3, 2025. All payments must be submitted through our website using a Mastercard or Visa debit/credit card or via e-check. Payments may not be dropped off or mailed to the Division or the Department of Health & Human Services. The Division cannot guarantee timely receipt or deposit of paper checks. Compliance Reminder: Please be aware that failure to pay the license may result in the revocation of your child care license. Unpaid license fees will also incur a 10% late fee and interest as established by NCGS § 147-86.23. For questions regarding license fees, visit the License Fee Frequently Asked Questions (Preguntas frecuentes en español) or email DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov for further assistance. The 2025-2026 Annual Child Care Immunization Report Reporting Portal is now open, and reports should have been submitted electronically by midnight, November 15, 2025. Instructions and worksheets are available for download and may be used to collect data needed before entering your individual school information online. For more information, download the 2025 Annual Childcare Immunization Report Memo. Ms. Johnson states she has not completed the Annual Child Care Immunization Report and I advised Ms. Johnson that she needs to complete this information in the portal immediately. Sign up for the Raise NC Newsletter! Don’t miss out on timely, relevant information about early childhood issues in North Carolina, proposed rules, upcoming training opportunities, and other resources for you and your staff. The Raise NC Newsletter is typically sent out weekly to all facility contact email addresses, but if your email is not the facility contact email address, you can go to the DCDEE Website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ and click on the “What’s New” tab to enter your email address and name under “Sign Up for Updates”. Share with your staff so they can be in the know too! You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, documentation was completed electronically on site, signed, and a copy left with Ms. Johnson. As we discussed, this computer-generated visit summary serves as completion of the routine unannounced visit. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE LEARNER'S DAYCARE Facility ID: 71000130 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 12/2/2025 Number Present: 3 Completed Date: 12/2/2025 Age: From 3 To 3 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 04:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s annual compliance visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This program currently operates with a Five Star License, issued April 16, 2020. Restrictions include: a capacity of 8, age range of 0-12, daytime and overnight, max. of 5 preschool children at any time and serve no more than 2 children under age one. The last annual compliance was conducted on December 4, 2024. As of today, the facility had an 18-month compliance history of 99%. 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. Owner/Operator, Jamie Johnson, was present and available for consultation. All spaces used by the children were monitored. Ms. Johnson has a room set up exclusively for child care. The bathroom is located in close proximity to the child care room. Appropriate toys and furnishings are available. Activity plan, containing evidence that you are using the North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning, and daily schedule were observed posted. There are eight children, including three school age children, enrolled, there were three children, all aged 3, were present today. All children were observing nap/rest time. Children were observed napping/resting on covered cots with blankets. When children woke up from nap, bathroom and handwashing routines were completed. Children were observed participating inf free choice activities. Free choice activities included blocks, dramatic play, puzzles, and writing activities. School age children arrived, and all children had snack; snack consisted of cheese crackers and milk. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers and children interacted in a positive and appropriate manner. The operator’s adult daughter, Quanisha James, was present and assisted Ms. Johnson with caring for the children. Ms. Johnson’s husband, W. Johnson was present in the house during the time of the visit. The paperwork for Ms. James and Mr. Johnson is on file and available for review. Nephew, L. Johnson, age 16, is living between this residence and his great aunt house. He was not present today and Ms. Johnson states he will remain at the great aunt’s house until qualifying letter is received. Ms. Johnson stated she is in the process of completing the criminal background check for her nephew. There were eight violations observed today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required. Violation Number Comment Rule 905 Record of monthly fire drills, giving the date, time of day and length of time to evacuate, and operator's signature, were not available. This information was not available during today's visit. .1721 (e )(2) 907 Written record of up-to-date pet vaccinations as required by NC law and local ordinances, including rabies vaccination for dogs and cats, was not available. Pet vaccination for dog, Nico, expired 10/04/2025. .1719(b)(1) 919 Accurate records were not maintained for all children. File for new child was missing information - Discipline policy, receipt of the NC Summary of the Law, and No Smoking Policy. G.S. 110-91(9) 930 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years from the date of issuance). Family member did not renew qualifying letter that expired on 09/02/2025. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(n) & (o) 1306 Operator has not completed ITS-SIDS training every three years from the completion date of the previous ITS-SIDS training. ITS-SIDS training expired for operator on 08/16/2025. .1703(a)(4) 1831 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available for review at the facility. Family member did not renew qualifying letter that expired on 09/02/2025. G.S. 110-90.2 (b) & (d) & .2703(e) .1702(b)(1) 1846 An individual over the age of 15, who resides in a family child care home or a center located in a residence on a permanent or temporary basis, or those who had their 16th birthday after the initial licensing of a family child care home; did not complete and submit required forms within five business days. Nephew who resides at this residence occasionally does not have a qualifying letter on file; nephew is 16 years of age. He was not present today and currently residing at the great aunt's home. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(q) 1854 The operator did not conduct a quarterly lockdown or shelter-in-place drill and or the drill record was incomplete. This information was not available during today's visit. .1719(a )(16) & .1721(e )(7) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received by December 16, 2025, describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 Technical assistance regarding violation cited: Qualifying Letter – Q. James has a qualification letter that expired on September 2, 2025, and information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by December 17, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, your facility will be inactive until family member receives qualification letter. N. Johnson, Ms. Johnson’s nephew, age 16, does reside here sometimes but has not completed required forms and receiving criminal background qualification letters through the Division of Child Development and Early Education. Ms. Johnson acknowledged that she was aware of requirements. This individual lives with Ms. Johnson and his great aunt, which is a different location/address. I discussed in detail today and explained he cannot be at your facility and must remain at your great aunt’s house until a qualifying letter has been received. Copies of qualification letter must be submitted to me once completed and received from DCDEE. Please be advised that you cannot have children in care if anyone in the household is disqualified or does not have a valid qualification letter on file. ITS-SIDS Training - All adults who provide care for infants 12 months or younger are required to be trained in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) risk reduction practices. The Infant/Toddler Safe Sleep and SIDS Risk Reduction in Child Care (ITS-SIDS) is the approved training. It prepares child care providers to follow their facility’s safe sleep policy. Complete the ITS-SIDS training again no more than 3 years from the completion of previous ITS-SIDS training. ITS-SIDS training expired for Ms. Johnson on 08/16/2025; Ms. Johnson is registered to complete this training on December 8, 2025 at Smart Start of New Hanover County. Fire Drills - Fire drills shall be practiced monthly, and records shall be maintained as required. Records of monthly fire drills documenting the date and time of each drill, the length of time taken to evacuate the building, and the signature of the person who conducted the drill shall be available for review. Today I suggested marking a date on your calendar so that you can ensure that a fire drill is performed monthly. It may also help to plan these drills for different times of the day so children and staff can be prepared to evacuate no matter activity or routine is taking place. A record of fire drills was not available for review. Emergency Drills - Lockdown or shelter-in-place drills should be practiced at least every three months as part of your facility's EPR plan. These drills should be documented on the Emergency Drill Record. Frequent practice will allow children and staff members to be familiar with the steps to take to keep everyone safe in an emergency. Today I suggested you plan the dates and times of your drills in advance and use calendar reminders to ensure they are completed at least every three months. This information was not available for review during today’s visit. Files – Accurate files must be maintained for all children in care. I strongly urge you to review Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1721 regarding requirements for records. I also suggest you utilize the checklists for staff files, children’s files and program records to ensure you have all required documents. These checklists are available on the DCDEE website under the Provider Documents tab. File for new child did not have all required forms on file and available for review. The written record of up-to-date pet vaccinations as required by NC law and local ordinances, including rabies vaccination for your dog was not available. The pet vaccinations for Roscoe expired October 4, 2025. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Reminder - Technical assistance was also provided during the visit regarding screen time for school-age children. While unlimited screen time is now allowed for the completion of school assignments, screen time usage, not related to school assignments, must be limited to 30 minutes daily. Screen time activities must also meet developmental goals, be offered as a free choice activity only and be documented on a log. Screen time is prohibited for children under three years of age. Other Information - Health & Safety Training – You completed these trainings in December 2022; therefore, you will need to complete these trainings again by December 2027. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database): As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired within five business days. Ms. Johnson has completed the training and is in the process of linking family members to her facility. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on May 16, 2022. • Lead-Based Paint- Exempt N/A • Asbestos- Exempt N/A Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are be posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. •Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. QRIS Modernization: Continuous Quality Improvement (QCI): Applies to Pathway 1 and 2 and applies to 2-5 Star Rated Licenses Today, we discussed individual CQI planning for FCCH Operator that accompanies the Professional Development Plan and the Facility CQI Plan that will be completed by the operator. We reviewed that the CQI Plan includes the following: • Identification of goal(s) • Required Documentation for the goal Family and Community Engagement: Applies to Pathway 1 and 2 and Foundational Practices begin with 2 Star Rated Licenses Today we reviewed all options included in the following Family and Community Engagement Categories • Communication Options • Engagement & Leadership Options • Educational Opportunity Options Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility is choosing Pathway #2, and you plan to apply for a rated license by May 2026. A copy of this template is attached to this visit summary. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming informational settings and working with you on your pathway to the stars! Other Information: 2025 Annual License Fee Invoices: Invoices for the annual license fees were emailed to facilities subject to license fees on November 3, 2025. Please note that annual license fees do not apply to state or public school-operated child care facilities, or to religious-sponsored facilities operating under a Notice of Compliance. Payment Information: Payments are due by December 3, 2025. All payments must be submitted through our website using a Mastercard or Visa debit/credit card or via e-check. Payments may not be dropped off or mailed to the Division or the Department of Health & Human Services. The Division cannot guarantee timely receipt or deposit of paper checks. Compliance Reminder: Please be aware that failure to pay the license may result in the revocation of your child care license. Unpaid license fees will also incur a 10% late fee and interest as established by NCGS § 147-86.23. For questions regarding license fees, visit the License Fee Frequently Asked Questions (Preguntas frecuentes en español) or email DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov for further assistance. The 2025-2026 Annual Child Care Immunization Report Reporting Portal is now open, and reports should have been submitted electronically by midnight, November 15, 2025. Instructions and worksheets are available for download and may be used to collect data needed before entering your individual school information online. For more information, download the 2025 Annual Childcare Immunization Report Memo. Ms. Johnson states she has not completed the Annual Child Care Immunization Report and I advised Ms. Johnson that she needs to complete this information in the portal immediately. Sign up for the Raise NC Newsletter! Don’t miss out on timely, relevant information about early childhood issues in North Carolina, proposed rules, upcoming training opportunities, and other resources for you and your staff. The Raise NC Newsletter is typically sent out weekly to all facility contact email addresses, but if your email is not the facility contact email address, you can go to the DCDEE Website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ and click on the “What’s New” tab to enter your email address and name under “Sign Up for Updates”. Share with your staff so they can be in the know too! You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, documentation was completed electronically on site, signed, and a copy left with Ms. Johnson. As we discussed, this computer-generated visit summary serves as completion of the routine unannounced visit. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE LEARNER'S DAYCARE Facility ID: 71000130 Consultant: TAMMY ROSS Operation Type: Family CC Home Case Number: Visit Date: 12/2/2025 Number Present: 3 Completed Date: 12/2/2025 Age: From 3 To 3 Total Minutes: 240 Time In: 12:30 PM Time Out: 04:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Family CC Home Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s annual compliance visit was to monitor compliance with applicable child care requirements. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. This program currently operates with a Five Star License, issued April 16, 2020. Restrictions include: a capacity of 8, age range of 0-12, daytime and overnight, max. of 5 preschool children at any time and serve no more than 2 children under age one. The last annual compliance was conducted on December 4, 2024. As of today, the facility had an 18-month compliance history of 99%. 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. Owner/Operator, Jamie Johnson, was present and available for consultation. All spaces used by the children were monitored. Ms. Johnson has a room set up exclusively for child care. The bathroom is located in close proximity to the child care room. Appropriate toys and furnishings are available. Activity plan, containing evidence that you are using the North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning, and daily schedule were observed posted. There are eight children, including three school age children, enrolled, there were three children, all aged 3, were present today. All children were observing nap/rest time. Children were observed napping/resting on covered cots with blankets. When children woke up from nap, bathroom and handwashing routines were completed. Children were observed participating inf free choice activities. Free choice activities included blocks, dramatic play, puzzles, and writing activities. School age children arrived, and all children had snack; snack consisted of cheese crackers and milk. All children were adequately supervised. Caregivers and children interacted in a positive and appropriate manner. The operator’s adult daughter, Quanisha James, was present and assisted Ms. Johnson with caring for the children. Ms. Johnson’s husband, W. Johnson was present in the house during the time of the visit. The paperwork for Ms. James and Mr. Johnson is on file and available for review. Nephew, L. Johnson, age 16, is living between this residence and his great aunt house. He was not present today and Ms. Johnson states he will remain at the great aunt’s house until qualifying letter is received. Ms. Johnson stated she is in the process of completing the criminal background check for her nephew. There were eight violations observed today. All violations must be corrected immediately. Continued compliance with applicable child care requirements is required. Violation Number Comment Rule 905 Record of monthly fire drills, giving the date, time of day and length of time to evacuate, and operator's signature, were not available. This information was not available during today's visit. .1721 (e )(2) 907 Written record of up-to-date pet vaccinations as required by NC law and local ordinances, including rabies vaccination for dogs and cats, was not available. Pet vaccination for dog, Nico, expired 10/04/2025. .1719(b)(1) 919 Accurate records were not maintained for all children. File for new child was missing information - Discipline policy, receipt of the NC Summary of the Law, and No Smoking Policy. G.S. 110-91(9) 930 Prior to the expiration date of the qualification letter, the child care provider did not complete and submit required forms to complete a criminal background check (a qualification letter is valid for a maximum of five years from the date of issuance). Family member did not renew qualifying letter that expired on 09/02/2025. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(n) & (o) 1306 Operator has not completed ITS-SIDS training every three years from the completion date of the previous ITS-SIDS training. ITS-SIDS training expired for operator on 08/16/2025. .1703(a)(4) 1831 A valid qualification letter was not on file and available for review at the facility. Family member did not renew qualifying letter that expired on 09/02/2025. G.S. 110-90.2 (b) & (d) & .2703(e) .1702(b)(1) 1846 An individual over the age of 15, who resides in a family child care home or a center located in a residence on a permanent or temporary basis, or those who had their 16th birthday after the initial licensing of a family child care home; did not complete and submit required forms within five business days. Nephew who resides at this residence occasionally does not have a qualifying letter on file; nephew is 16 years of age. He was not present today and currently residing at the great aunt's home. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(q) 1854 The operator did not conduct a quarterly lockdown or shelter-in-place drill and or the drill record was incomplete. This information was not available during today's visit. .1719(a )(16) & .1721(e )(7) In order for your facility to remain in compliance with NC Child Care Requirements, violations must be corrected immediately. A signed and dated letter of compliance must be received by December 16, 2025, describing how each violation was corrected and how compliance will be maintained in the future. A time frame is established to allow you time for submitting your compliance letter. This timeframe is not intended to be used as a guide for correcting violations, as they should be corrected immediately. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at (910)824-1143 or you can email me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov. You may email me your verification or mail it to me at: Tammy Ross, Child Care Licensing Consultant, P.O. Box 278, Jacksonville, NC 28541 Technical assistance regarding violation cited: Qualifying Letter – Q. James has a qualification letter that expired on September 2, 2025, and information for requalification was not submitted prior to the expiration. This violation must be corrected within fifteen (15) days, by December 17, 2025, and a copy of the qualification letter must be sent with the required compliance letter. If the qualification letter is not on file within the 15 days, your facility will be inactive until family member receives qualification letter. N. Johnson, Ms. Johnson’s nephew, age 16, does reside here sometimes but has not completed required forms and receiving criminal background qualification letters through the Division of Child Development and Early Education. Ms. Johnson acknowledged that she was aware of requirements. This individual lives with Ms. Johnson and his great aunt, which is a different location/address. I discussed in detail today and explained he cannot be at your facility and must remain at your great aunt’s house until a qualifying letter has been received. Copies of qualification letter must be submitted to me once completed and received from DCDEE. Please be advised that you cannot have children in care if anyone in the household is disqualified or does not have a valid qualification letter on file. ITS-SIDS Training - All adults who provide care for infants 12 months or younger are required to be trained in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) risk reduction practices. The Infant/Toddler Safe Sleep and SIDS Risk Reduction in Child Care (ITS-SIDS) is the approved training. It prepares child care providers to follow their facility’s safe sleep policy. Complete the ITS-SIDS training again no more than 3 years from the completion of previous ITS-SIDS training. ITS-SIDS training expired for Ms. Johnson on 08/16/2025; Ms. Johnson is registered to complete this training on December 8, 2025 at Smart Start of New Hanover County. Fire Drills - Fire drills shall be practiced monthly, and records shall be maintained as required. Records of monthly fire drills documenting the date and time of each drill, the length of time taken to evacuate the building, and the signature of the person who conducted the drill shall be available for review. Today I suggested marking a date on your calendar so that you can ensure that a fire drill is performed monthly. It may also help to plan these drills for different times of the day so children and staff can be prepared to evacuate no matter activity or routine is taking place. A record of fire drills was not available for review. Emergency Drills - Lockdown or shelter-in-place drills should be practiced at least every three months as part of your facility's EPR plan. These drills should be documented on the Emergency Drill Record. Frequent practice will allow children and staff members to be familiar with the steps to take to keep everyone safe in an emergency. Today I suggested you plan the dates and times of your drills in advance and use calendar reminders to ensure they are completed at least every three months. This information was not available for review during today’s visit. Files – Accurate files must be maintained for all children in care. I strongly urge you to review Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 .1721 regarding requirements for records. I also suggest you utilize the checklists for staff files, children’s files and program records to ensure you have all required documents. These checklists are available on the DCDEE website under the Provider Documents tab. File for new child did not have all required forms on file and available for review. The written record of up-to-date pet vaccinations as required by NC law and local ordinances, including rabies vaccination for your dog was not available. The pet vaccinations for Roscoe expired October 4, 2025. Child care licensing requirements are established to ensure a safe and healthy child care environment. Therefore, it is important for you to be knowledgeable of all of the licensing requirements that apply to your type of program. It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with all of the applicable laws and rules at all times whether or not they have been monitored or specifically discussed with you in the past. The best way for you to make sure that you are meeting all requirements is to periodically review the child care law and rules. Reminder - Technical assistance was also provided during the visit regarding screen time for school-age children. While unlimited screen time is now allowed for the completion of school assignments, screen time usage, not related to school assignments, must be limited to 30 minutes daily. Screen time activities must also meet developmental goals, be offered as a free choice activity only and be documented on a log. Screen time is prohibited for children under three years of age. Other Information - Health & Safety Training – You completed these trainings in December 2022; therefore, you will need to complete these trainings again by December 2027. Completing, refreshing, and updating the required Health and Safety Training increases your awareness and knowledge regarding child development and safety. Ensure this information in completed, recorded on the required form, and on file for review. Criminal Background Check Information – This is a requirement and if it is not completed, it will be documented as a violation. DCDEE launched the Provider Portal for ABCMS on February 1, 2024. This access will allow providers to see applicants that associate themselves with their facility and allow them to “hire” the applicant to their roster, see the real-time background check status of staff/household members, and run a printable report of the staff roster to assist with compliance visits. Provider Portal for ABCMS (the criminal records check database): As stated in G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(r), child care operators are to notify the Division of any new child care providers working who were hired within five business days. Ms. Johnson has completed the training and is in the process of linking family members to her facility. CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS Your facility’s status, according to the Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids website, shows the following: • Water Testing-Completed on May 16, 2022. • Lead-Based Paint- Exempt N/A • Asbestos- Exempt N/A Ensure you keep all paperwork that you receive regarding this matter, as it may be requested to verify compliance. Please refer to the website if you have specific questions! https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/faq/ for further guidance and ensure all steps have been completed. Use this link to enroll your program or view test results/status: https://www.cleanwaterforuskids.org/en/carolina/ Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: The new rules related to the star rated license system (QRIS) have been approved. The DCDEE team looks forward to working with child care facilities across the state to transition to the new QRIS system, also known as Pathways to the Stars, located in Section .3200 of the Child Care Rules. The transition will begin soon with the following informational opportunities: •You can review the rule roll out module in the DCDEE e-learning Moodle platform and •If you were unable to attend the recent webinars regarding Choosing a Pathway to the Stars, the sessions were recorded and are be posted on the QRIS Modernization page. •Follow this link for detailed information: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Provider/Licensing/Star-Rated-License/QRIS-Modernization. •Beginning In October, child care consultants will begin discussing the new rules in Section .3200; Standards for Two through Five Star Rated Licenses during licensing visits. Consultants will review the pathway options, identify facility needs, answer questions, and work with the facility operator to establish an individualized timeline for transition to a new rated license within 12 months based on the pathway chosen. QRIS Modernization: Continuous Quality Improvement (QCI): Applies to Pathway 1 and 2 and applies to 2-5 Star Rated Licenses Today, we discussed individual CQI planning for FCCH Operator that accompanies the Professional Development Plan and the Facility CQI Plan that will be completed by the operator. We reviewed that the CQI Plan includes the following: • Identification of goal(s) • Required Documentation for the goal Family and Community Engagement: Applies to Pathway 1 and 2 and Foundational Practices begin with 2 Star Rated Licenses Today we reviewed all options included in the following Family and Community Engagement Categories • Communication Options • Engagement & Leadership Options • Educational Opportunity Options Choosing a Pathway to the Stars: Today, I completed a QRIS Conversation Template for your facility. You reported that your facility is choosing Pathway #2, and you plan to apply for a rated license by May 2026. A copy of this template is attached to this visit summary. We understand this is a big change and are committed to ensuring all providers have a good understanding of the new opportunities to make informed decisions on which pathway best suits the needs of the facility. We look forward to seeing you at these upcoming informational settings and working with you on your pathway to the stars! Other Information: 2025 Annual License Fee Invoices: Invoices for the annual license fees were emailed to facilities subject to license fees on November 3, 2025. Please note that annual license fees do not apply to state or public school-operated child care facilities, or to religious-sponsored facilities operating under a Notice of Compliance. Payment Information: Payments are due by December 3, 2025. All payments must be submitted through our website using a Mastercard or Visa debit/credit card or via e-check. Payments may not be dropped off or mailed to the Division or the Department of Health & Human Services. The Division cannot guarantee timely receipt or deposit of paper checks. Compliance Reminder: Please be aware that failure to pay the license may result in the revocation of your child care license. Unpaid license fees will also incur a 10% late fee and interest as established by NCGS § 147-86.23. For questions regarding license fees, visit the License Fee Frequently Asked Questions (Preguntas frecuentes en español) or email DCDEE_LF@dhhs.nc.gov for further assistance. The 2025-2026 Annual Child Care Immunization Report Reporting Portal is now open, and reports should have been submitted electronically by midnight, November 15, 2025. Instructions and worksheets are available for download and may be used to collect data needed before entering your individual school information online. For more information, download the 2025 Annual Childcare Immunization Report Memo. Ms. Johnson states she has not completed the Annual Child Care Immunization Report and I advised Ms. Johnson that she needs to complete this information in the portal immediately. Sign up for the Raise NC Newsletter! Don’t miss out on timely, relevant information about early childhood issues in North Carolina, proposed rules, upcoming training opportunities, and other resources for you and your staff. The Raise NC Newsletter is typically sent out weekly to all facility contact email addresses, but if your email is not the facility contact email address, you can go to the DCDEE Website, https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ and click on the “What’s New” tab to enter your email address and name under “Sign Up for Updates”. Share with your staff so they can be in the know too! You can contact the NC Resource Center for information, resources, and referrals on topics related to child health and health and safety in child care. Anyone in the greater early care and education community is welcome to call 1(800) 367-2229 (choose 1 then 2). Stay up to date with the Division of Child Development and Early Education by visiting www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. This website enables you to view the entire Law and Child Care Requirements for North Carolina as well as download required forms. Click on the “What’s New” tab for important updates impacting child care in North Carolina. For the latest information on childcare rules and regulations, please visit the Division of Child Development and Early Education's website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/ At the completion of the visit, documentation was completed electronically on site, signed, and a copy left with Ms. Johnson. As we discussed, this computer-generated visit summary serves as completion of the routine unannounced visit. Please remember it is your responsibility to always comply with all child care rules and requirements. Contact me at Tammy.Ross@dhhs.nc.gov at (910)824-1143 with any questions or concerns. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.