First Steps Childcare Development Center, LLC

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER HILL Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0824-341A Visit Date: 8/28/2024 Number Present: 23 Completed Date: 8/28/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 75 Time In: 09:55 AM Time Out: 11:10 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of this unannounced visit was to investigate allegations of violations of child care requirements at this child care facility. Sharon Burris, administrator, accompanied me during a walk-through of the facility. During the visit, I discussed the allegations with Ms. Burris, Cynthia Corley, owner, and additional staff members. Limited monitoring of child care requirements occurred during today’s visit. Violation Number Comment Rule 902 Each child was not attended to in a nurturing and appropriate manner, or in keeping with the child's developmental needs. On August 22, 2024, a staff member held and lifted a 2-year-old child by the wrist with one hand to redirect the child. As a result, the child sustained nursemaids' elbow. G.S. 110-91(10) You may contact me at Jennifer Hill, Investigations Consultant, 828-358-5387, Jennifer.Hill@dhhs.nc.gov or Natosha Lambeth, Western Investigations Team Supervisor, Natosha.Lambeth@dhhs.nc.gov. Thank you for your time. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0901 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/20/2024 Number Present: 28 Completed Date: 6/20/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 373 Time In: 11:02 AM Time Out: 05:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements, including health and safety requirements. You, Sharon Burris, administrator, assisted me with the visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Your program currently operates with a four (4) star license issued January 11, 2024. The permit restrictions listed on the license include daytime care only, max capacity 40 children based on septic tank restriction, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked on June 20, 2024, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC., is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, your consultant, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The last monthly fire drill was completed on May 3, 2024, at 9:35 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on June 5, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed on May 29, 2024, and you received a superior classification and zero (0) demerits. The last fire inspection was completed on March 28, 2023. You must obtain a fire inspection as soon as possible. The menu for the week of June 17, 2024, through June 21, 2024, was posted in the kitchen and each classroom. We discussed the afternoon snack must contain two separate components. The menu for Monday, June 17, 2024, documented an afternoon snack consisting of animal crackers and water. The menu for Tuesday, June 18, 2024, documented an afternoon snack consisting of Go Yogurt and water. Staff and children’s files were reviewed during the visit. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The most recent fire inspection on file for review was dated March 28, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. The menu that was posted for Monday, June 17, 2024, documented children were served animal crackers and water for afternoon snack. The menu that was posted for Tuesday, June 18, 2024, documented children were served Go Yogurt and water for afternoon snack. Children must be served two separate components for a snack. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu posted in the kitchen and in each classroom documented children will be served the following foods for lunch on Thursday, June 20, 2024: Chicken Nuggets, green beans, pears, and milk. Children were served the following meal for lunch on Thursday, June 20, 2024, Salisbury Steak, mashed potatoes, corn, roll and milk. Changes to the menu were not documented prior to the meal service. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One container of Clorox Disinfecting and one container of Bactive Disinfecting Wipes with multiple warnings noted on the labels were stored under the sink in the unlocked cabinet, in space #2. .2820(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. On June 7, 2024, the visual sleep charts for one infant, five months of age, documented the infant was placed on their back for sleeping at 11am, the next visual check documented on the sleep chart was 11:30am. Visual sleep checks are to be completed every fifteen minutes per your safe sleep policy. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. N. Moore was employed on January 29, 2024, had verification on file of receiving Basic Life Support Training, but did not have verification that First Aid certification was received. S. Greene was employed on December 18, 2023, had a training certificate on file that did not meet the requirements for verification of First Aid Training. The certificate did not document the date the training would expire, and the location of the training. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. S. Greene was employed on December 18, 2023, had a training certificate on file that did not meet the requirements for verification of CPR Training. The certificate did not document the date the training would expire, and the location of the training. .1102(d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One lead teacher with a hire date of December 18, 2023, had a training certificate on file for completing the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training on March 16, 2019. One staff with a hire date of November 3, 2023, received the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training on March 6, 2024. One staff with a hire date of January 8, 2024, did not have a training certificate on file for review. .1102(g) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 4, 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. Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Roberts, Child Care Consultant PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 jennifer.roberts@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 You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Prior to today's visit, your program maintained a compliance history of 90%. Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Technical assistance was provided on the following: Fire Inspections The facility must obtain an approved fire inspection annually. The most recent fire inspection on file was dated March 28, 2023. I suggested that you contact the Fire Marshal as soon as possible to obtain a fire inspection. Please submit a copy of the inspection to me, your child care consultant within seven days. Child Care Rule .0901 General Nutrition (a) Meals and snacks served to children in a child care center shall comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) which are based on the recommended nutrient intake judged by the National Research Council to be adequate for maintaining good nutrition. The types of food, number and size of servings shall be appropriate for the ages and developmental levels of the children in care. The Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs are incorporated by reference and include subsequent amendments. A copy of the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs is available online at https://www.fns.usda.gov/cacfp/meals-and-snacks. I suggested you review the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs with staff to ensure they know the components that are to be served to children in care. (b) When food is prepared by or provided by the center, menus for nutritious meals and snacks shall be planned at least one week in advance. At least one dated copy of the current week's menu shall be posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff when food is prepared or provided by the center. A variety of food shall be included in meals and snacks. Any substitution shall be of comparable food value and shall be recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. Menus-Prior to serving a meal, the menu must be updated if alternate foods are going to be served. I suggested you review menu requirements with staff assigned to preparing the meals and snacks to ensure they document any food substitutions on the menu prior to serving the children. Staff can note the changes on the menu as foods are substituted. CPR and First Aid Child Care Rule .1102 Health and Safety Requirements (c) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018, or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017, training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. (d) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course appropriate to the ages of children in care. At all times when children are in care one staff member present must have successfully completed CPR training. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018 or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017 training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for CPR training. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. We discussed accessing DCDEE’s website to review approved trainers for CPR and First Aid, as well as using the Staff File Checklist as a guide to ensure staff complete time sensitive trainings within the required time frames. I suggested that you place an alert in your calendar to remind you of deadlines for receiving documents from staff. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. I suggested that you review certificates to ensure that staff are completing the required training. Staff must receive the Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within ninety days of hire. You may access the Staff File Checklist and use it as a guide to ensure staff complete the required training. Safe Sleep Policy We discussed that staff must document the visual sleep check every fifteen minutes when infants are sleeping. I suggested that you add digital clocks in the classroom where infants are sleeping and a set timer to alert staff to conduct a visual check every fifteen minutes. General Safety Potentially hazardous items must be stored according to the warnings noted on the packaging. Disinfecting wipes must be stored at least five feet from the floor surface and inaccessible to children. I suggested that you create a safety checklist to remind staff to conduct daily visual checks of their classroom to ensure proper storage of potentially hazardous products. The Clorox wipes and Bactive wipes were removed from space #2 and stored in a locked cabinet located in the hallway. You currently do not transport children. Reminders: You have completed your EPR Plan on November 9, 2023. It has been reviewed with all staff and documentation of the review was placed on file. You completed an emergency drill on May 2, 2024. I reminded you to update the EPR Plan no later than November 9, 2024. Once you update your plan, you will need to print page 1 if no other updates were entered into the portal, or print the complete plan if updates were entered. Once the EPR Plan is updated, review with all staff. You stated that you are using a curriculum as defined in Rule .0102(10). Learn Every Day is the curriculum you are using at the facility. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, Jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/20/2024 Number Present: 28 Completed Date: 6/20/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 373 Time In: 11:02 AM Time Out: 05:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements, including health and safety requirements. You, Sharon Burris, administrator, assisted me with the visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Your program currently operates with a four (4) star license issued January 11, 2024. The permit restrictions listed on the license include daytime care only, max capacity 40 children based on septic tank restriction, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked on June 20, 2024, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC., is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, your consultant, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The last monthly fire drill was completed on May 3, 2024, at 9:35 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on June 5, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed on May 29, 2024, and you received a superior classification and zero (0) demerits. The last fire inspection was completed on March 28, 2023. You must obtain a fire inspection as soon as possible. The menu for the week of June 17, 2024, through June 21, 2024, was posted in the kitchen and each classroom. We discussed the afternoon snack must contain two separate components. The menu for Monday, June 17, 2024, documented an afternoon snack consisting of animal crackers and water. The menu for Tuesday, June 18, 2024, documented an afternoon snack consisting of Go Yogurt and water. Staff and children’s files were reviewed during the visit. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The most recent fire inspection on file for review was dated March 28, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. The menu that was posted for Monday, June 17, 2024, documented children were served animal crackers and water for afternoon snack. The menu that was posted for Tuesday, June 18, 2024, documented children were served Go Yogurt and water for afternoon snack. Children must be served two separate components for a snack. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu posted in the kitchen and in each classroom documented children will be served the following foods for lunch on Thursday, June 20, 2024: Chicken Nuggets, green beans, pears, and milk. Children were served the following meal for lunch on Thursday, June 20, 2024, Salisbury Steak, mashed potatoes, corn, roll and milk. Changes to the menu were not documented prior to the meal service. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One container of Clorox Disinfecting and one container of Bactive Disinfecting Wipes with multiple warnings noted on the labels were stored under the sink in the unlocked cabinet, in space #2. .2820(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. On June 7, 2024, the visual sleep charts for one infant, five months of age, documented the infant was placed on their back for sleeping at 11am, the next visual check documented on the sleep chart was 11:30am. Visual sleep checks are to be completed every fifteen minutes per your safe sleep policy. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. N. Moore was employed on January 29, 2024, had verification on file of receiving Basic Life Support Training, but did not have verification that First Aid certification was received. S. Greene was employed on December 18, 2023, had a training certificate on file that did not meet the requirements for verification of First Aid Training. The certificate did not document the date the training would expire, and the location of the training. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. S. Greene was employed on December 18, 2023, had a training certificate on file that did not meet the requirements for verification of CPR Training. The certificate did not document the date the training would expire, and the location of the training. .1102(d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One lead teacher with a hire date of December 18, 2023, had a training certificate on file for completing the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training on March 16, 2019. One staff with a hire date of November 3, 2023, received the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training on March 6, 2024. One staff with a hire date of January 8, 2024, did not have a training certificate on file for review. .1102(g) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 4, 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. Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Roberts, Child Care Consultant PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 jennifer.roberts@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 You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Prior to today's visit, your program maintained a compliance history of 90%. Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Technical assistance was provided on the following: Fire Inspections The facility must obtain an approved fire inspection annually. The most recent fire inspection on file was dated March 28, 2023. I suggested that you contact the Fire Marshal as soon as possible to obtain a fire inspection. Please submit a copy of the inspection to me, your child care consultant within seven days. Child Care Rule .0901 General Nutrition (a) Meals and snacks served to children in a child care center shall comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) which are based on the recommended nutrient intake judged by the National Research Council to be adequate for maintaining good nutrition. The types of food, number and size of servings shall be appropriate for the ages and developmental levels of the children in care. The Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs are incorporated by reference and include subsequent amendments. A copy of the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs is available online at https://www.fns.usda.gov/cacfp/meals-and-snacks. I suggested you review the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs with staff to ensure they know the components that are to be served to children in care. (b) When food is prepared by or provided by the center, menus for nutritious meals and snacks shall be planned at least one week in advance. At least one dated copy of the current week's menu shall be posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff when food is prepared or provided by the center. A variety of food shall be included in meals and snacks. Any substitution shall be of comparable food value and shall be recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. Menus-Prior to serving a meal, the menu must be updated if alternate foods are going to be served. I suggested you review menu requirements with staff assigned to preparing the meals and snacks to ensure they document any food substitutions on the menu prior to serving the children. Staff can note the changes on the menu as foods are substituted. CPR and First Aid Child Care Rule .1102 Health and Safety Requirements (c) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018, or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017, training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. (d) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course appropriate to the ages of children in care. At all times when children are in care one staff member present must have successfully completed CPR training. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018 or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017 training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for CPR training. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. We discussed accessing DCDEE’s website to review approved trainers for CPR and First Aid, as well as using the Staff File Checklist as a guide to ensure staff complete time sensitive trainings within the required time frames. I suggested that you place an alert in your calendar to remind you of deadlines for receiving documents from staff. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. I suggested that you review certificates to ensure that staff are completing the required training. Staff must receive the Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within ninety days of hire. You may access the Staff File Checklist and use it as a guide to ensure staff complete the required training. Safe Sleep Policy We discussed that staff must document the visual sleep check every fifteen minutes when infants are sleeping. I suggested that you add digital clocks in the classroom where infants are sleeping and a set timer to alert staff to conduct a visual check every fifteen minutes. General Safety Potentially hazardous items must be stored according to the warnings noted on the packaging. Disinfecting wipes must be stored at least five feet from the floor surface and inaccessible to children. I suggested that you create a safety checklist to remind staff to conduct daily visual checks of their classroom to ensure proper storage of potentially hazardous products. The Clorox wipes and Bactive wipes were removed from space #2 and stored in a locked cabinet located in the hallway. You currently do not transport children. Reminders: You have completed your EPR Plan on November 9, 2023. It has been reviewed with all staff and documentation of the review was placed on file. You completed an emergency drill on May 2, 2024. I reminded you to update the EPR Plan no later than November 9, 2024. Once you update your plan, you will need to print page 1 if no other updates were entered into the portal, or print the complete plan if updates were entered. Once the EPR Plan is updated, review with all staff. You stated that you are using a curriculum as defined in Rule .0102(10). Learn Every Day is the curriculum you are using at the facility. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, Jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .0606 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/20/2024 Number Present: 28 Completed Date: 6/20/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 373 Time In: 11:02 AM Time Out: 05:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements, including health and safety requirements. You, Sharon Burris, administrator, assisted me with the visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Your program currently operates with a four (4) star license issued January 11, 2024. The permit restrictions listed on the license include daytime care only, max capacity 40 children based on septic tank restriction, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked on June 20, 2024, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC., is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, your consultant, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The last monthly fire drill was completed on May 3, 2024, at 9:35 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on June 5, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed on May 29, 2024, and you received a superior classification and zero (0) demerits. The last fire inspection was completed on March 28, 2023. You must obtain a fire inspection as soon as possible. The menu for the week of June 17, 2024, through June 21, 2024, was posted in the kitchen and each classroom. We discussed the afternoon snack must contain two separate components. The menu for Monday, June 17, 2024, documented an afternoon snack consisting of animal crackers and water. The menu for Tuesday, June 18, 2024, documented an afternoon snack consisting of Go Yogurt and water. Staff and children’s files were reviewed during the visit. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The most recent fire inspection on file for review was dated March 28, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. The menu that was posted for Monday, June 17, 2024, documented children were served animal crackers and water for afternoon snack. The menu that was posted for Tuesday, June 18, 2024, documented children were served Go Yogurt and water for afternoon snack. Children must be served two separate components for a snack. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu posted in the kitchen and in each classroom documented children will be served the following foods for lunch on Thursday, June 20, 2024: Chicken Nuggets, green beans, pears, and milk. Children were served the following meal for lunch on Thursday, June 20, 2024, Salisbury Steak, mashed potatoes, corn, roll and milk. Changes to the menu were not documented prior to the meal service. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One container of Clorox Disinfecting and one container of Bactive Disinfecting Wipes with multiple warnings noted on the labels were stored under the sink in the unlocked cabinet, in space #2. .2820(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. On June 7, 2024, the visual sleep charts for one infant, five months of age, documented the infant was placed on their back for sleeping at 11am, the next visual check documented on the sleep chart was 11:30am. Visual sleep checks are to be completed every fifteen minutes per your safe sleep policy. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. N. Moore was employed on January 29, 2024, had verification on file of receiving Basic Life Support Training, but did not have verification that First Aid certification was received. S. Greene was employed on December 18, 2023, had a training certificate on file that did not meet the requirements for verification of First Aid Training. The certificate did not document the date the training would expire, and the location of the training. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. S. Greene was employed on December 18, 2023, had a training certificate on file that did not meet the requirements for verification of CPR Training. The certificate did not document the date the training would expire, and the location of the training. .1102(d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One lead teacher with a hire date of December 18, 2023, had a training certificate on file for completing the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training on March 16, 2019. One staff with a hire date of November 3, 2023, received the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training on March 6, 2024. One staff with a hire date of January 8, 2024, did not have a training certificate on file for review. .1102(g) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 4, 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. Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Roberts, Child Care Consultant PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 jennifer.roberts@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 You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Prior to today's visit, your program maintained a compliance history of 90%. Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Technical assistance was provided on the following: Fire Inspections The facility must obtain an approved fire inspection annually. The most recent fire inspection on file was dated March 28, 2023. I suggested that you contact the Fire Marshal as soon as possible to obtain a fire inspection. Please submit a copy of the inspection to me, your child care consultant within seven days. Child Care Rule .0901 General Nutrition (a) Meals and snacks served to children in a child care center shall comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) which are based on the recommended nutrient intake judged by the National Research Council to be adequate for maintaining good nutrition. The types of food, number and size of servings shall be appropriate for the ages and developmental levels of the children in care. The Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs are incorporated by reference and include subsequent amendments. A copy of the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs is available online at https://www.fns.usda.gov/cacfp/meals-and-snacks. I suggested you review the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs with staff to ensure they know the components that are to be served to children in care. (b) When food is prepared by or provided by the center, menus for nutritious meals and snacks shall be planned at least one week in advance. At least one dated copy of the current week's menu shall be posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff when food is prepared or provided by the center. A variety of food shall be included in meals and snacks. Any substitution shall be of comparable food value and shall be recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. Menus-Prior to serving a meal, the menu must be updated if alternate foods are going to be served. I suggested you review menu requirements with staff assigned to preparing the meals and snacks to ensure they document any food substitutions on the menu prior to serving the children. Staff can note the changes on the menu as foods are substituted. CPR and First Aid Child Care Rule .1102 Health and Safety Requirements (c) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018, or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017, training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. (d) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course appropriate to the ages of children in care. At all times when children are in care one staff member present must have successfully completed CPR training. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018 or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017 training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for CPR training. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. We discussed accessing DCDEE’s website to review approved trainers for CPR and First Aid, as well as using the Staff File Checklist as a guide to ensure staff complete time sensitive trainings within the required time frames. I suggested that you place an alert in your calendar to remind you of deadlines for receiving documents from staff. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. I suggested that you review certificates to ensure that staff are completing the required training. Staff must receive the Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within ninety days of hire. You may access the Staff File Checklist and use it as a guide to ensure staff complete the required training. Safe Sleep Policy We discussed that staff must document the visual sleep check every fifteen minutes when infants are sleeping. I suggested that you add digital clocks in the classroom where infants are sleeping and a set timer to alert staff to conduct a visual check every fifteen minutes. General Safety Potentially hazardous items must be stored according to the warnings noted on the packaging. Disinfecting wipes must be stored at least five feet from the floor surface and inaccessible to children. I suggested that you create a safety checklist to remind staff to conduct daily visual checks of their classroom to ensure proper storage of potentially hazardous products. The Clorox wipes and Bactive wipes were removed from space #2 and stored in a locked cabinet located in the hallway. You currently do not transport children. Reminders: You have completed your EPR Plan on November 9, 2023. It has been reviewed with all staff and documentation of the review was placed on file. You completed an emergency drill on May 2, 2024. I reminded you to update the EPR Plan no later than November 9, 2024. Once you update your plan, you will need to print page 1 if no other updates were entered into the portal, or print the complete plan if updates were entered. Once the EPR Plan is updated, review with all staff. You stated that you are using a curriculum as defined in Rule .0102(10). Learn Every Day is the curriculum you are using at the facility. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, Jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .2201 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/20/2024 Number Present: 28 Completed Date: 6/20/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 373 Time In: 11:02 AM Time Out: 05:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements, including health and safety requirements. You, Sharon Burris, administrator, assisted me with the visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Your program currently operates with a four (4) star license issued January 11, 2024. The permit restrictions listed on the license include daytime care only, max capacity 40 children based on septic tank restriction, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked on June 20, 2024, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC., is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, your consultant, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The last monthly fire drill was completed on May 3, 2024, at 9:35 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on June 5, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed on May 29, 2024, and you received a superior classification and zero (0) demerits. The last fire inspection was completed on March 28, 2023. You must obtain a fire inspection as soon as possible. The menu for the week of June 17, 2024, through June 21, 2024, was posted in the kitchen and each classroom. We discussed the afternoon snack must contain two separate components. The menu for Monday, June 17, 2024, documented an afternoon snack consisting of animal crackers and water. The menu for Tuesday, June 18, 2024, documented an afternoon snack consisting of Go Yogurt and water. Staff and children’s files were reviewed during the visit. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The most recent fire inspection on file for review was dated March 28, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. The menu that was posted for Monday, June 17, 2024, documented children were served animal crackers and water for afternoon snack. The menu that was posted for Tuesday, June 18, 2024, documented children were served Go Yogurt and water for afternoon snack. Children must be served two separate components for a snack. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu posted in the kitchen and in each classroom documented children will be served the following foods for lunch on Thursday, June 20, 2024: Chicken Nuggets, green beans, pears, and milk. Children were served the following meal for lunch on Thursday, June 20, 2024, Salisbury Steak, mashed potatoes, corn, roll and milk. Changes to the menu were not documented prior to the meal service. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One container of Clorox Disinfecting and one container of Bactive Disinfecting Wipes with multiple warnings noted on the labels were stored under the sink in the unlocked cabinet, in space #2. .2820(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. On June 7, 2024, the visual sleep charts for one infant, five months of age, documented the infant was placed on their back for sleeping at 11am, the next visual check documented on the sleep chart was 11:30am. Visual sleep checks are to be completed every fifteen minutes per your safe sleep policy. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. N. Moore was employed on January 29, 2024, had verification on file of receiving Basic Life Support Training, but did not have verification that First Aid certification was received. S. Greene was employed on December 18, 2023, had a training certificate on file that did not meet the requirements for verification of First Aid Training. The certificate did not document the date the training would expire, and the location of the training. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. S. Greene was employed on December 18, 2023, had a training certificate on file that did not meet the requirements for verification of CPR Training. The certificate did not document the date the training would expire, and the location of the training. .1102(d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One lead teacher with a hire date of December 18, 2023, had a training certificate on file for completing the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training on March 16, 2019. One staff with a hire date of November 3, 2023, received the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training on March 6, 2024. One staff with a hire date of January 8, 2024, did not have a training certificate on file for review. .1102(g) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 4, 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. Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Roberts, Child Care Consultant PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 jennifer.roberts@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 You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Prior to today's visit, your program maintained a compliance history of 90%. Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Technical assistance was provided on the following: Fire Inspections The facility must obtain an approved fire inspection annually. The most recent fire inspection on file was dated March 28, 2023. I suggested that you contact the Fire Marshal as soon as possible to obtain a fire inspection. Please submit a copy of the inspection to me, your child care consultant within seven days. Child Care Rule .0901 General Nutrition (a) Meals and snacks served to children in a child care center shall comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) which are based on the recommended nutrient intake judged by the National Research Council to be adequate for maintaining good nutrition. The types of food, number and size of servings shall be appropriate for the ages and developmental levels of the children in care. The Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs are incorporated by reference and include subsequent amendments. A copy of the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs is available online at https://www.fns.usda.gov/cacfp/meals-and-snacks. I suggested you review the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs with staff to ensure they know the components that are to be served to children in care. (b) When food is prepared by or provided by the center, menus for nutritious meals and snacks shall be planned at least one week in advance. At least one dated copy of the current week's menu shall be posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff when food is prepared or provided by the center. A variety of food shall be included in meals and snacks. Any substitution shall be of comparable food value and shall be recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. Menus-Prior to serving a meal, the menu must be updated if alternate foods are going to be served. I suggested you review menu requirements with staff assigned to preparing the meals and snacks to ensure they document any food substitutions on the menu prior to serving the children. Staff can note the changes on the menu as foods are substituted. CPR and First Aid Child Care Rule .1102 Health and Safety Requirements (c) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018, or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017, training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. (d) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course appropriate to the ages of children in care. At all times when children are in care one staff member present must have successfully completed CPR training. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018 or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017 training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for CPR training. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. We discussed accessing DCDEE’s website to review approved trainers for CPR and First Aid, as well as using the Staff File Checklist as a guide to ensure staff complete time sensitive trainings within the required time frames. I suggested that you place an alert in your calendar to remind you of deadlines for receiving documents from staff. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. I suggested that you review certificates to ensure that staff are completing the required training. Staff must receive the Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within ninety days of hire. You may access the Staff File Checklist and use it as a guide to ensure staff complete the required training. Safe Sleep Policy We discussed that staff must document the visual sleep check every fifteen minutes when infants are sleeping. I suggested that you add digital clocks in the classroom where infants are sleeping and a set timer to alert staff to conduct a visual check every fifteen minutes. General Safety Potentially hazardous items must be stored according to the warnings noted on the packaging. Disinfecting wipes must be stored at least five feet from the floor surface and inaccessible to children. I suggested that you create a safety checklist to remind staff to conduct daily visual checks of their classroom to ensure proper storage of potentially hazardous products. The Clorox wipes and Bactive wipes were removed from space #2 and stored in a locked cabinet located in the hallway. You currently do not transport children. Reminders: You have completed your EPR Plan on November 9, 2023. It has been reviewed with all staff and documentation of the review was placed on file. You completed an emergency drill on May 2, 2024. I reminded you to update the EPR Plan no later than November 9, 2024. Once you update your plan, you will need to print page 1 if no other updates were entered into the portal, or print the complete plan if updates were entered. Once the EPR Plan is updated, review with all staff. You stated that you are using a curriculum as defined in Rule .0102(10). Learn Every Day is the curriculum you are using at the facility. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, Jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/20/2024 Number Present: 28 Completed Date: 6/20/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 373 Time In: 11:02 AM Time Out: 05:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements, including health and safety requirements. You, Sharon Burris, administrator, assisted me with the visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Your program currently operates with a four (4) star license issued January 11, 2024. The permit restrictions listed on the license include daytime care only, max capacity 40 children based on septic tank restriction, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked on June 20, 2024, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC., is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, your consultant, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The last monthly fire drill was completed on May 3, 2024, at 9:35 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on June 5, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed on May 29, 2024, and you received a superior classification and zero (0) demerits. The last fire inspection was completed on March 28, 2023. You must obtain a fire inspection as soon as possible. The menu for the week of June 17, 2024, through June 21, 2024, was posted in the kitchen and each classroom. We discussed the afternoon snack must contain two separate components. The menu for Monday, June 17, 2024, documented an afternoon snack consisting of animal crackers and water. The menu for Tuesday, June 18, 2024, documented an afternoon snack consisting of Go Yogurt and water. Staff and children’s files were reviewed during the visit. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The most recent fire inspection on file for review was dated March 28, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. The menu that was posted for Monday, June 17, 2024, documented children were served animal crackers and water for afternoon snack. The menu that was posted for Tuesday, June 18, 2024, documented children were served Go Yogurt and water for afternoon snack. Children must be served two separate components for a snack. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu posted in the kitchen and in each classroom documented children will be served the following foods for lunch on Thursday, June 20, 2024: Chicken Nuggets, green beans, pears, and milk. Children were served the following meal for lunch on Thursday, June 20, 2024, Salisbury Steak, mashed potatoes, corn, roll and milk. Changes to the menu were not documented prior to the meal service. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One container of Clorox Disinfecting and one container of Bactive Disinfecting Wipes with multiple warnings noted on the labels were stored under the sink in the unlocked cabinet, in space #2. .2820(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. On June 7, 2024, the visual sleep charts for one infant, five months of age, documented the infant was placed on their back for sleeping at 11am, the next visual check documented on the sleep chart was 11:30am. Visual sleep checks are to be completed every fifteen minutes per your safe sleep policy. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. N. Moore was employed on January 29, 2024, had verification on file of receiving Basic Life Support Training, but did not have verification that First Aid certification was received. S. Greene was employed on December 18, 2023, had a training certificate on file that did not meet the requirements for verification of First Aid Training. The certificate did not document the date the training would expire, and the location of the training. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. S. Greene was employed on December 18, 2023, had a training certificate on file that did not meet the requirements for verification of CPR Training. The certificate did not document the date the training would expire, and the location of the training. .1102(d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One lead teacher with a hire date of December 18, 2023, had a training certificate on file for completing the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training on March 16, 2019. One staff with a hire date of November 3, 2023, received the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training on March 6, 2024. One staff with a hire date of January 8, 2024, did not have a training certificate on file for review. .1102(g) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 4, 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. Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Roberts, Child Care Consultant PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 jennifer.roberts@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 You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Prior to today's visit, your program maintained a compliance history of 90%. Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Technical assistance was provided on the following: Fire Inspections The facility must obtain an approved fire inspection annually. The most recent fire inspection on file was dated March 28, 2023. I suggested that you contact the Fire Marshal as soon as possible to obtain a fire inspection. Please submit a copy of the inspection to me, your child care consultant within seven days. Child Care Rule .0901 General Nutrition (a) Meals and snacks served to children in a child care center shall comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) which are based on the recommended nutrient intake judged by the National Research Council to be adequate for maintaining good nutrition. The types of food, number and size of servings shall be appropriate for the ages and developmental levels of the children in care. The Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs are incorporated by reference and include subsequent amendments. A copy of the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs is available online at https://www.fns.usda.gov/cacfp/meals-and-snacks. I suggested you review the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs with staff to ensure they know the components that are to be served to children in care. (b) When food is prepared by or provided by the center, menus for nutritious meals and snacks shall be planned at least one week in advance. At least one dated copy of the current week's menu shall be posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff when food is prepared or provided by the center. A variety of food shall be included in meals and snacks. Any substitution shall be of comparable food value and shall be recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. Menus-Prior to serving a meal, the menu must be updated if alternate foods are going to be served. I suggested you review menu requirements with staff assigned to preparing the meals and snacks to ensure they document any food substitutions on the menu prior to serving the children. Staff can note the changes on the menu as foods are substituted. CPR and First Aid Child Care Rule .1102 Health and Safety Requirements (c) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018, or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017, training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. (d) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course appropriate to the ages of children in care. At all times when children are in care one staff member present must have successfully completed CPR training. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018 or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017 training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for CPR training. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. We discussed accessing DCDEE’s website to review approved trainers for CPR and First Aid, as well as using the Staff File Checklist as a guide to ensure staff complete time sensitive trainings within the required time frames. I suggested that you place an alert in your calendar to remind you of deadlines for receiving documents from staff. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. I suggested that you review certificates to ensure that staff are completing the required training. Staff must receive the Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within ninety days of hire. You may access the Staff File Checklist and use it as a guide to ensure staff complete the required training. Safe Sleep Policy We discussed that staff must document the visual sleep check every fifteen minutes when infants are sleeping. I suggested that you add digital clocks in the classroom where infants are sleeping and a set timer to alert staff to conduct a visual check every fifteen minutes. General Safety Potentially hazardous items must be stored according to the warnings noted on the packaging. Disinfecting wipes must be stored at least five feet from the floor surface and inaccessible to children. I suggested that you create a safety checklist to remind staff to conduct daily visual checks of their classroom to ensure proper storage of potentially hazardous products. The Clorox wipes and Bactive wipes were removed from space #2 and stored in a locked cabinet located in the hallway. You currently do not transport children. Reminders: You have completed your EPR Plan on November 9, 2023. It has been reviewed with all staff and documentation of the review was placed on file. You completed an emergency drill on May 2, 2024. I reminded you to update the EPR Plan no later than November 9, 2024. Once you update your plan, you will need to print page 1 if no other updates were entered into the portal, or print the complete plan if updates were entered. Once the EPR Plan is updated, review with all staff. You stated that you are using a curriculum as defined in Rule .0102(10). Learn Every Day is the curriculum you are using at the facility. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, Jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 6/20/2024 Number Present: 28 Completed Date: 6/20/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 373 Time In: 11:02 AM Time Out: 05:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced annual compliance visit was to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements, including health and safety requirements. You, Sharon Burris, administrator, assisted me with the visit. A checklist was used to note the requirements I monitored today. Your program currently operates with a four (4) star license issued January 11, 2024. The permit restrictions listed on the license include daytime care only, max capacity 40 children based on septic tank restriction, meets enhanced ratios, and meets enhanced space. The Secretary of State website was checked on June 20, 2024, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC., is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, your consultant, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. The last monthly fire drill was completed on May 3, 2024, at 9:35 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on June 5, 2024. The last sanitation inspection was completed on May 29, 2024, and you received a superior classification and zero (0) demerits. The last fire inspection was completed on March 28, 2023. You must obtain a fire inspection as soon as possible. The menu for the week of June 17, 2024, through June 21, 2024, was posted in the kitchen and each classroom. We discussed the afternoon snack must contain two separate components. The menu for Monday, June 17, 2024, documented an afternoon snack consisting of animal crackers and water. The menu for Tuesday, June 18, 2024, documented an afternoon snack consisting of Go Yogurt and water. Staff and children’s files were reviewed during the visit. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The most recent fire inspection on file for review was dated March 28, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 501 Meals/snacks did not comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. The menu that was posted for Monday, June 17, 2024, documented children were served animal crackers and water for afternoon snack. The menu that was posted for Tuesday, June 18, 2024, documented children were served Go Yogurt and water for afternoon snack. Children must be served two separate components for a snack. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(a) 528 Food substitution was not of comparable food value or recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. The menu posted in the kitchen and in each classroom documented children will be served the following foods for lunch on Thursday, June 20, 2024: Chicken Nuggets, green beans, pears, and milk. Children were served the following meal for lunch on Thursday, June 20, 2024, Salisbury Steak, mashed potatoes, corn, roll and milk. Changes to the menu were not documented prior to the meal service. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 840 All corrosive agents, pesticides, bleaches, detergents, cleansers, polishes, any product which is under pressure in an aerosol dispenser, and any substance which may be hazardous to a child if ingested, inhaled, or handled were not stored in a locked room or cabinet. One container of Clorox Disinfecting and one container of Bactive Disinfecting Wipes with multiple warnings noted on the labels were stored under the sink in the unlocked cabinet, in space #2. .2820(b) 871 Center staff did not comply with the safe sleep policy. On June 7, 2024, the visual sleep charts for one infant, five months of age, documented the infant was placed on their back for sleeping at 11am, the next visual check documented on the sleep chart was 11:30am. Visual sleep checks are to be completed every fifteen minutes per your safe sleep policy. 10A NCAC 09 .0606(a) 1048 All staff did not successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the age of children in care. Verification of staff completion of First Aid training from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. N. Moore was employed on January 29, 2024, had verification on file of receiving Basic Life Support Training, but did not have verification that First Aid certification was received. S. Greene was employed on December 18, 2023, had a training certificate on file that did not meet the requirements for verification of First Aid Training. The certificate did not document the date the training would expire, and the location of the training. .1102(c) 1049 All staff did not successfully complete certification in CPR training appropriate to the age of the children in care. Verification of staff completion of the CPR course from an approved training organization was not in the staff file. S. Greene was employed on December 18, 2023, had a training certificate on file that did not meet the requirements for verification of CPR Training. The certificate did not document the date the training would expire, and the location of the training. .1102(d) 1897 The child care administrator and all staff did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. One lead teacher with a hire date of December 18, 2023, had a training certificate on file for completing the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training on March 16, 2019. One staff with a hire date of November 3, 2023, received the Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training on March 6, 2024. One staff with a hire date of January 8, 2024, did not have a training certificate on file for review. .1102(g) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Any violation(s) documented may impact the compliance history score. The violation(s) documented must be corrected immediately. On or before July 4, 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. Mail or email the information to: Jennifer Roberts, Child Care Consultant PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 jennifer.roberts@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 You must maintain at least 75% Compliance History for each 18-month period as required by G.S. 110-90(4) (c). Prior to today's visit, your program maintained a compliance history of 90%. Please note any violations cited during future visits will negatively impact your compliance history. Repeated violations or violations left unresolved may lead to an administrative action. Technical assistance was provided on the following: Fire Inspections The facility must obtain an approved fire inspection annually. The most recent fire inspection on file was dated March 28, 2023. I suggested that you contact the Fire Marshal as soon as possible to obtain a fire inspection. Please submit a copy of the inspection to me, your child care consultant within seven days. Child Care Rule .0901 General Nutrition (a) Meals and snacks served to children in a child care center shall comply with the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) which are based on the recommended nutrient intake judged by the National Research Council to be adequate for maintaining good nutrition. The types of food, number and size of servings shall be appropriate for the ages and developmental levels of the children in care. The Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs are incorporated by reference and include subsequent amendments. A copy of the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs is available online at https://www.fns.usda.gov/cacfp/meals-and-snacks. I suggested you review the Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs with staff to ensure they know the components that are to be served to children in care. (b) When food is prepared by or provided by the center, menus for nutritious meals and snacks shall be planned at least one week in advance. At least one dated copy of the current week's menu shall be posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff when food is prepared or provided by the center. A variety of food shall be included in meals and snacks. Any substitution shall be of comparable food value and shall be recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. Menus-Prior to serving a meal, the menu must be updated if alternate foods are going to be served. I suggested you review menu requirements with staff assigned to preparing the meals and snacks to ensure they document any food substitutions on the menu prior to serving the children. Staff can note the changes on the menu as foods are substituted. CPR and First Aid Child Care Rule .1102 Health and Safety Requirements (c) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in First Aid appropriate to the ages of children in care. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018, or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017, training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for First Aid training. At all times when children are in care at least one staff member present must have successfully completed First Aid training, as evidenced by a certificate or card from an approved training organization. First Aid training shall be renewed on or before expiration of the certification. "Successfully completed" is defined as demonstrating competency, as evaluated by the instructor. Verification of each required staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. (d) All staff who provide direct care or accompany children when they are off premises shall successfully complete certification in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course appropriate to the ages of children in care. At all times when children are in care one staff member present must have successfully completed CPR training. The training shall be completed by June 30, 2018 or for new staff hired on or after September 1, 2017 training must be completed within 90 days of employment. Distance learning shall not be permitted for CPR training. CPR training shall be renewed on or before the expiration of the certification. Verification of each staff member's completion of this course from an approved training organization shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. The Division shall post a list of approved training organizations on its website at http://ncchildcare.nc.gov/providers/pv_sn2_ov_pd.asp. We discussed accessing DCDEE’s website to review approved trainers for CPR and First Aid, as well as using the Staff File Checklist as a guide to ensure staff complete time sensitive trainings within the required time frames. I suggested that you place an alert in your calendar to remind you of deadlines for receiving documents from staff. (g) The child care administrator and all staff members shall complete Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within 90 days of employment. This training shall count toward requirements set forth in Rule .1103 of this Section. Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training is available at https://www.preventchildabusenc.org/services/trainings-and-professional-development/rrcourse. A certificate of each staff member's completion of this course shall be maintained in the staff member's file in the center. I suggested that you review certificates to ensure that staff are completing the required training. Staff must receive the Suspicions of Child Maltreatment training within ninety days of hire. You may access the Staff File Checklist and use it as a guide to ensure staff complete the required training. Safe Sleep Policy We discussed that staff must document the visual sleep check every fifteen minutes when infants are sleeping. I suggested that you add digital clocks in the classroom where infants are sleeping and a set timer to alert staff to conduct a visual check every fifteen minutes. General Safety Potentially hazardous items must be stored according to the warnings noted on the packaging. Disinfecting wipes must be stored at least five feet from the floor surface and inaccessible to children. I suggested that you create a safety checklist to remind staff to conduct daily visual checks of their classroom to ensure proper storage of potentially hazardous products. The Clorox wipes and Bactive wipes were removed from space #2 and stored in a locked cabinet located in the hallway. You currently do not transport children. Reminders: You have completed your EPR Plan on November 9, 2023. It has been reviewed with all staff and documentation of the review was placed on file. You completed an emergency drill on May 2, 2024. I reminded you to update the EPR Plan no later than November 9, 2024. Once you update your plan, you will need to print page 1 if no other updates were entered into the portal, or print the complete plan if updates were entered. Once the EPR Plan is updated, review with all staff. You stated that you are using a curriculum as defined in Rule .0102(10). Learn Every Day is the curriculum you are using at the facility. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, Jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .0102 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/4/2023 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 12/4/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 299 Time In: 09:46 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit has been to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the third temporary time period visit. You, Sharon Burris, administrator, assisted me with the visit. Cynthia Corley, owner, also assisted with the visit. The Secretary of State website was checked on December 4, 2023, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC., is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, your consultant, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on July 10, 2023, with the following restrictions: Daytime care only, and max capacity of 40 children based on septic tank restriction. The last monthly fire drill was completed on November 30, 2023, at 9:45 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on November 6, 2023. The last sanitation inspection was completed on August 31, 2023, and you received a superior classification and zero (0) demerits. Three new staff files were reviewed. The menu for the week of December 4, 2023, was documented with appropriate nutritious meals and a snack, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. I received your Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License on October 3, 2023. I received your Rated License Assessment Request form on October 3, 2023. The Environment Rating Scale Assessment was requested on October 9, 2023. The Environment Rating Scale Assessments were completed on November 7, 2023, and November 14, 2023. The program received the following scores: ITERS-R 5.3, and ECERS-R 5.42. A review of each item on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment reports was discussed with you. I discussed with you that you will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding after your temporary license expires if you do not achieve at least a three-star rated license. Your temporary license will expire after January 10, 2024. An extension of time is not given, and your rated license points will be processed with the current points you have earned. The following violation was observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. S. Poole, lead teacher in space #1, had a hire date of November 3, 2023, and a medical report on file that was dated November 29, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) Item #1032 Staff must have a medical report on file prior to employment. The medical report on file for S. Poole was dated November 29, 2023, and had a hire date of November 3, 2023. I suggested that you use the Staff File Checklist as a guide to ensure requirements are met. You stated the employee had a medical prior to employment, but it was not on the correct form. I suggested in the future that you contact your consultant to ensure that the medical report could not be acceptable before destroying the document or returning the document to the employee. Consultation was provided on the following. I discussed and gave you suggestions on how to make changes to increase your scores for the ITERS-R, and ECERS-R. I ask you if you had any objections to the scores and/or items that scored low. You said that you accept the scores and do not want to submit a grievance to NCRLAP. We reviewed and discussed requirements for enhanced ratios and enhanced space. You have chosen to meet enhanced ratios and enhanced space to receive six points in Program Standards. You must maintain compliance with enhanced space and enhanced ratios, or a violation will be cited once the rated license is issued. You will need to update the new staff/child ratio charts and you will need to post them in each space. Based on today's review you have the following points: Program Standards - 6 points Staff Education – further evaluation is needed. I requested that you contact me when their official transcripts have been mailed to the Raleigh office. Quality Point - 1 point for Staff Benefits Package, paid planning time, paid professional development for staff, insurance, paid vacation and paid sick time, and Infrastructure of Parent Involvement, quarterly newsletters, and parent conferences. You currently do not transport children. Reminders: You have completed your EPR Plan on November 9, 2023. It has been reviewed with all staff and documentation of the review was placed on file. You completed an emergency drill on November 29, 2023. You stated that you are using a curriculum as defined in Rule .0102(10). Learn Every Day is the curriculum you are using at the facility. You stated your facility will implement the Creative Curriculum beginning January 2, 2024. The rated license will be mailed to you from our Raleigh office. You must complete your annual fire inspection prior to March 28, 2024. Mail the original completed and approved fire inspection form to your child care consultant within one week after it is completed. Call your licensing consultant with any questions you may have. You can obtain the annual fire inspection form and Staff and Training Worksheet form under the provider tab, then provider documents and forms tab at www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Before your annual compliance visit is due, please complete the Staff and Training Worksheet form. Your annual compliance visit will be conducted prior to July 10, 2024. All staff must have completed the required applicable Health and Safety Training and/or On-Going Training requirements and have documentation on file for review prior to July 10, 2024. Your compliance history prior to today’s visit was at 88%. Any observed violations cited during visits will negatively affect the center's Compliance History Score. Your program must maintain a compliance score of at least 75% as required by G.S. 110-90 (4)(c). Your temporary license will end after January 10, 2024. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by December 18, 2023. Please include in that letter each violation number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov: Jennifer Roberts PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your corrective action plan letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (1) if the applicant owned or operated a licensed child care facility that was issued a denial, revocation, or summary suspension by the Division; (2) if the applicant owned or operated a licensed child care facility against which the Division initiated denial, revocation, or summary suspension proceedings and the applicant voluntarily relinquished the license prior to the issuance of a final action; (3) during the pendency of an appeal of a denial, revocation, or summary suspension of any other licensed child care facility license owned or operated by the applicant; (4) if the applicant owned or operated a facility that received a sanction for fraudulent misrepresentation pursuant to 10A NCAC 10 .0308 of the Subsidized Child Care Rules; (5) if the applicant owned or operated a facility that was issued a Notice of Termination and Disqualification by the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP); (6) if the Division determines that the applicant has a relationship with an operator or former operator who owned or operated a regulated child care facility as described in Subparagraphs (1) through (5) of this Paragraph. As used in this Rule, an applicant has a relationship with a former operator if the former owner or operator would be involved with the applicant's child care facility in one or more of the following ways: (A) would participate in the administration or operation of the facility; (B) has a financial interest in the operation of the facility, as evidenced by, among other things, a familial relationship with the former owner or operator, employment at the new facility, and ownership of the building or property where the facility is located; or entering into a lease for the building; (C) provides care to children at the facility, even as a volunteer; (D) resides in the facility; (E) has an ownership interest in the facility as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102(33); or (F) would serve on the facility's board of directors, be a partner of the corporation, or otherwise have responsibility for the administration of the business; (7) based on the applicant's previous non-compliance as an operator with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter; (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; (9) if abuse or neglect or child maltreatment has been substantiated against the applicant pursuant to G.S. 7B-101 or G.S. 110-105.5; or (10) if the applicant is a disqualified child care provider or has a disqualified household member residing in the child care facility pursuant to G.S. 110-90.2. (b) In determining whether denial of the application for a license is warranted pursuant to Paragraph (a) of this Rule, the Division shall consider: (1) any documentation provided by the applicant that describes the steps the applicant will take to prevent reoccurrence of noncompliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter; (2) training certificates or original transcripts for any coursework from a nationally recognized regionally accredited institution of higher learning related to providing quality child care, and that was taken subsequent to any prior administrative action against a license previously held by the applicant. "Nationally recognized" means that every state in this nation acknowledges the validity of the coursework taken at higher education institutions that meet the requirements of one of the accrediting bodies; (3) proof of employment in a licensed child care facility and references from the administrator or licensee of the child care facility regarding work performance; (4) documentation of collaboration or mentorship with a licensed child care provider to obtain additional knowledge and experience related to operation of a child care facility; or (5) documentation explaining relationships with persons meeting the criteria listed in Subparagraph (a)(6) of this Rule. (c) Operators who held a child care facility license or permit that was denied, revoked, subject to a cease operation order, or summarily suspended within the past five years shall be ineligible to apply for a new child care license. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, Jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/4/2023 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 12/4/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 299 Time In: 09:46 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit has been to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the third temporary time period visit. You, Sharon Burris, administrator, assisted me with the visit. Cynthia Corley, owner, also assisted with the visit. The Secretary of State website was checked on December 4, 2023, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC., is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, your consultant, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on July 10, 2023, with the following restrictions: Daytime care only, and max capacity of 40 children based on septic tank restriction. The last monthly fire drill was completed on November 30, 2023, at 9:45 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on November 6, 2023. The last sanitation inspection was completed on August 31, 2023, and you received a superior classification and zero (0) demerits. Three new staff files were reviewed. The menu for the week of December 4, 2023, was documented with appropriate nutritious meals and a snack, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. I received your Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License on October 3, 2023. I received your Rated License Assessment Request form on October 3, 2023. The Environment Rating Scale Assessment was requested on October 9, 2023. The Environment Rating Scale Assessments were completed on November 7, 2023, and November 14, 2023. The program received the following scores: ITERS-R 5.3, and ECERS-R 5.42. A review of each item on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment reports was discussed with you. I discussed with you that you will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding after your temporary license expires if you do not achieve at least a three-star rated license. Your temporary license will expire after January 10, 2024. An extension of time is not given, and your rated license points will be processed with the current points you have earned. The following violation was observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. S. Poole, lead teacher in space #1, had a hire date of November 3, 2023, and a medical report on file that was dated November 29, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) Item #1032 Staff must have a medical report on file prior to employment. The medical report on file for S. Poole was dated November 29, 2023, and had a hire date of November 3, 2023. I suggested that you use the Staff File Checklist as a guide to ensure requirements are met. You stated the employee had a medical prior to employment, but it was not on the correct form. I suggested in the future that you contact your consultant to ensure that the medical report could not be acceptable before destroying the document or returning the document to the employee. Consultation was provided on the following. I discussed and gave you suggestions on how to make changes to increase your scores for the ITERS-R, and ECERS-R. I ask you if you had any objections to the scores and/or items that scored low. You said that you accept the scores and do not want to submit a grievance to NCRLAP. We reviewed and discussed requirements for enhanced ratios and enhanced space. You have chosen to meet enhanced ratios and enhanced space to receive six points in Program Standards. You must maintain compliance with enhanced space and enhanced ratios, or a violation will be cited once the rated license is issued. You will need to update the new staff/child ratio charts and you will need to post them in each space. Based on today's review you have the following points: Program Standards - 6 points Staff Education – further evaluation is needed. I requested that you contact me when their official transcripts have been mailed to the Raleigh office. Quality Point - 1 point for Staff Benefits Package, paid planning time, paid professional development for staff, insurance, paid vacation and paid sick time, and Infrastructure of Parent Involvement, quarterly newsletters, and parent conferences. You currently do not transport children. Reminders: You have completed your EPR Plan on November 9, 2023. It has been reviewed with all staff and documentation of the review was placed on file. You completed an emergency drill on November 29, 2023. You stated that you are using a curriculum as defined in Rule .0102(10). Learn Every Day is the curriculum you are using at the facility. You stated your facility will implement the Creative Curriculum beginning January 2, 2024. The rated license will be mailed to you from our Raleigh office. You must complete your annual fire inspection prior to March 28, 2024. Mail the original completed and approved fire inspection form to your child care consultant within one week after it is completed. Call your licensing consultant with any questions you may have. You can obtain the annual fire inspection form and Staff and Training Worksheet form under the provider tab, then provider documents and forms tab at www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Before your annual compliance visit is due, please complete the Staff and Training Worksheet form. Your annual compliance visit will be conducted prior to July 10, 2024. All staff must have completed the required applicable Health and Safety Training and/or On-Going Training requirements and have documentation on file for review prior to July 10, 2024. Your compliance history prior to today’s visit was at 88%. Any observed violations cited during visits will negatively affect the center's Compliance History Score. Your program must maintain a compliance score of at least 75% as required by G.S. 110-90 (4)(c). Your temporary license will end after January 10, 2024. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by December 18, 2023. Please include in that letter each violation number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov: Jennifer Roberts PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your corrective action plan letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (1) if the applicant owned or operated a licensed child care facility that was issued a denial, revocation, or summary suspension by the Division; (2) if the applicant owned or operated a licensed child care facility against which the Division initiated denial, revocation, or summary suspension proceedings and the applicant voluntarily relinquished the license prior to the issuance of a final action; (3) during the pendency of an appeal of a denial, revocation, or summary suspension of any other licensed child care facility license owned or operated by the applicant; (4) if the applicant owned or operated a facility that received a sanction for fraudulent misrepresentation pursuant to 10A NCAC 10 .0308 of the Subsidized Child Care Rules; (5) if the applicant owned or operated a facility that was issued a Notice of Termination and Disqualification by the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP); (6) if the Division determines that the applicant has a relationship with an operator or former operator who owned or operated a regulated child care facility as described in Subparagraphs (1) through (5) of this Paragraph. As used in this Rule, an applicant has a relationship with a former operator if the former owner or operator would be involved with the applicant's child care facility in one or more of the following ways: (A) would participate in the administration or operation of the facility; (B) has a financial interest in the operation of the facility, as evidenced by, among other things, a familial relationship with the former owner or operator, employment at the new facility, and ownership of the building or property where the facility is located; or entering into a lease for the building; (C) provides care to children at the facility, even as a volunteer; (D) resides in the facility; (E) has an ownership interest in the facility as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102(33); or (F) would serve on the facility's board of directors, be a partner of the corporation, or otherwise have responsibility for the administration of the business; (7) based on the applicant's previous non-compliance as an operator with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter; (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; (9) if abuse or neglect or child maltreatment has been substantiated against the applicant pursuant to G.S. 7B-101 or G.S. 110-105.5; or (10) if the applicant is a disqualified child care provider or has a disqualified household member residing in the child care facility pursuant to G.S. 110-90.2. (b) In determining whether denial of the application for a license is warranted pursuant to Paragraph (a) of this Rule, the Division shall consider: (1) any documentation provided by the applicant that describes the steps the applicant will take to prevent reoccurrence of noncompliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter; (2) training certificates or original transcripts for any coursework from a nationally recognized regionally accredited institution of higher learning related to providing quality child care, and that was taken subsequent to any prior administrative action against a license previously held by the applicant. "Nationally recognized" means that every state in this nation acknowledges the validity of the coursework taken at higher education institutions that meet the requirements of one of the accrediting bodies; (3) proof of employment in a licensed child care facility and references from the administrator or licensee of the child care facility regarding work performance; (4) documentation of collaboration or mentorship with a licensed child care provider to obtain additional knowledge and experience related to operation of a child care facility; or (5) documentation explaining relationships with persons meeting the criteria listed in Subparagraph (a)(6) of this Rule. (c) Operators who held a child care facility license or permit that was denied, revoked, subject to a cease operation order, or summarily suspended within the past five years shall be ineligible to apply for a new child care license. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, Jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .2201 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/4/2023 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 12/4/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 299 Time In: 09:46 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit has been to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the third temporary time period visit. You, Sharon Burris, administrator, assisted me with the visit. Cynthia Corley, owner, also assisted with the visit. The Secretary of State website was checked on December 4, 2023, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC., is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, your consultant, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on July 10, 2023, with the following restrictions: Daytime care only, and max capacity of 40 children based on septic tank restriction. The last monthly fire drill was completed on November 30, 2023, at 9:45 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on November 6, 2023. The last sanitation inspection was completed on August 31, 2023, and you received a superior classification and zero (0) demerits. Three new staff files were reviewed. The menu for the week of December 4, 2023, was documented with appropriate nutritious meals and a snack, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. I received your Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License on October 3, 2023. I received your Rated License Assessment Request form on October 3, 2023. The Environment Rating Scale Assessment was requested on October 9, 2023. The Environment Rating Scale Assessments were completed on November 7, 2023, and November 14, 2023. The program received the following scores: ITERS-R 5.3, and ECERS-R 5.42. A review of each item on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment reports was discussed with you. I discussed with you that you will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding after your temporary license expires if you do not achieve at least a three-star rated license. Your temporary license will expire after January 10, 2024. An extension of time is not given, and your rated license points will be processed with the current points you have earned. The following violation was observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. S. Poole, lead teacher in space #1, had a hire date of November 3, 2023, and a medical report on file that was dated November 29, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) Item #1032 Staff must have a medical report on file prior to employment. The medical report on file for S. Poole was dated November 29, 2023, and had a hire date of November 3, 2023. I suggested that you use the Staff File Checklist as a guide to ensure requirements are met. You stated the employee had a medical prior to employment, but it was not on the correct form. I suggested in the future that you contact your consultant to ensure that the medical report could not be acceptable before destroying the document or returning the document to the employee. Consultation was provided on the following. I discussed and gave you suggestions on how to make changes to increase your scores for the ITERS-R, and ECERS-R. I ask you if you had any objections to the scores and/or items that scored low. You said that you accept the scores and do not want to submit a grievance to NCRLAP. We reviewed and discussed requirements for enhanced ratios and enhanced space. You have chosen to meet enhanced ratios and enhanced space to receive six points in Program Standards. You must maintain compliance with enhanced space and enhanced ratios, or a violation will be cited once the rated license is issued. You will need to update the new staff/child ratio charts and you will need to post them in each space. Based on today's review you have the following points: Program Standards - 6 points Staff Education – further evaluation is needed. I requested that you contact me when their official transcripts have been mailed to the Raleigh office. Quality Point - 1 point for Staff Benefits Package, paid planning time, paid professional development for staff, insurance, paid vacation and paid sick time, and Infrastructure of Parent Involvement, quarterly newsletters, and parent conferences. You currently do not transport children. Reminders: You have completed your EPR Plan on November 9, 2023. It has been reviewed with all staff and documentation of the review was placed on file. You completed an emergency drill on November 29, 2023. You stated that you are using a curriculum as defined in Rule .0102(10). Learn Every Day is the curriculum you are using at the facility. You stated your facility will implement the Creative Curriculum beginning January 2, 2024. The rated license will be mailed to you from our Raleigh office. You must complete your annual fire inspection prior to March 28, 2024. Mail the original completed and approved fire inspection form to your child care consultant within one week after it is completed. Call your licensing consultant with any questions you may have. You can obtain the annual fire inspection form and Staff and Training Worksheet form under the provider tab, then provider documents and forms tab at www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Before your annual compliance visit is due, please complete the Staff and Training Worksheet form. Your annual compliance visit will be conducted prior to July 10, 2024. All staff must have completed the required applicable Health and Safety Training and/or On-Going Training requirements and have documentation on file for review prior to July 10, 2024. Your compliance history prior to today’s visit was at 88%. Any observed violations cited during visits will negatively affect the center's Compliance History Score. Your program must maintain a compliance score of at least 75% as required by G.S. 110-90 (4)(c). Your temporary license will end after January 10, 2024. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by December 18, 2023. Please include in that letter each violation number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov: Jennifer Roberts PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your corrective action plan letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (1) if the applicant owned or operated a licensed child care facility that was issued a denial, revocation, or summary suspension by the Division; (2) if the applicant owned or operated a licensed child care facility against which the Division initiated denial, revocation, or summary suspension proceedings and the applicant voluntarily relinquished the license prior to the issuance of a final action; (3) during the pendency of an appeal of a denial, revocation, or summary suspension of any other licensed child care facility license owned or operated by the applicant; (4) if the applicant owned or operated a facility that received a sanction for fraudulent misrepresentation pursuant to 10A NCAC 10 .0308 of the Subsidized Child Care Rules; (5) if the applicant owned or operated a facility that was issued a Notice of Termination and Disqualification by the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP); (6) if the Division determines that the applicant has a relationship with an operator or former operator who owned or operated a regulated child care facility as described in Subparagraphs (1) through (5) of this Paragraph. As used in this Rule, an applicant has a relationship with a former operator if the former owner or operator would be involved with the applicant's child care facility in one or more of the following ways: (A) would participate in the administration or operation of the facility; (B) has a financial interest in the operation of the facility, as evidenced by, among other things, a familial relationship with the former owner or operator, employment at the new facility, and ownership of the building or property where the facility is located; or entering into a lease for the building; (C) provides care to children at the facility, even as a volunteer; (D) resides in the facility; (E) has an ownership interest in the facility as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102(33); or (F) would serve on the facility's board of directors, be a partner of the corporation, or otherwise have responsibility for the administration of the business; (7) based on the applicant's previous non-compliance as an operator with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter; (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; (9) if abuse or neglect or child maltreatment has been substantiated against the applicant pursuant to G.S. 7B-101 or G.S. 110-105.5; or (10) if the applicant is a disqualified child care provider or has a disqualified household member residing in the child care facility pursuant to G.S. 110-90.2. (b) In determining whether denial of the application for a license is warranted pursuant to Paragraph (a) of this Rule, the Division shall consider: (1) any documentation provided by the applicant that describes the steps the applicant will take to prevent reoccurrence of noncompliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter; (2) training certificates or original transcripts for any coursework from a nationally recognized regionally accredited institution of higher learning related to providing quality child care, and that was taken subsequent to any prior administrative action against a license previously held by the applicant. "Nationally recognized" means that every state in this nation acknowledges the validity of the coursework taken at higher education institutions that meet the requirements of one of the accrediting bodies; (3) proof of employment in a licensed child care facility and references from the administrator or licensee of the child care facility regarding work performance; (4) documentation of collaboration or mentorship with a licensed child care provider to obtain additional knowledge and experience related to operation of a child care facility; or (5) documentation explaining relationships with persons meeting the criteria listed in Subparagraph (a)(6) of this Rule. (c) Operators who held a child care facility license or permit that was denied, revoked, subject to a cease operation order, or summarily suspended within the past five years shall be ineligible to apply for a new child care license. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, Jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .2215 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/4/2023 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 12/4/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 299 Time In: 09:46 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit has been to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the third temporary time period visit. You, Sharon Burris, administrator, assisted me with the visit. Cynthia Corley, owner, also assisted with the visit. The Secretary of State website was checked on December 4, 2023, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC., is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, your consultant, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on July 10, 2023, with the following restrictions: Daytime care only, and max capacity of 40 children based on septic tank restriction. The last monthly fire drill was completed on November 30, 2023, at 9:45 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on November 6, 2023. The last sanitation inspection was completed on August 31, 2023, and you received a superior classification and zero (0) demerits. Three new staff files were reviewed. The menu for the week of December 4, 2023, was documented with appropriate nutritious meals and a snack, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. I received your Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License on October 3, 2023. I received your Rated License Assessment Request form on October 3, 2023. The Environment Rating Scale Assessment was requested on October 9, 2023. The Environment Rating Scale Assessments were completed on November 7, 2023, and November 14, 2023. The program received the following scores: ITERS-R 5.3, and ECERS-R 5.42. A review of each item on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment reports was discussed with you. I discussed with you that you will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding after your temporary license expires if you do not achieve at least a three-star rated license. Your temporary license will expire after January 10, 2024. An extension of time is not given, and your rated license points will be processed with the current points you have earned. The following violation was observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. S. Poole, lead teacher in space #1, had a hire date of November 3, 2023, and a medical report on file that was dated November 29, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) Item #1032 Staff must have a medical report on file prior to employment. The medical report on file for S. Poole was dated November 29, 2023, and had a hire date of November 3, 2023. I suggested that you use the Staff File Checklist as a guide to ensure requirements are met. You stated the employee had a medical prior to employment, but it was not on the correct form. I suggested in the future that you contact your consultant to ensure that the medical report could not be acceptable before destroying the document or returning the document to the employee. Consultation was provided on the following. I discussed and gave you suggestions on how to make changes to increase your scores for the ITERS-R, and ECERS-R. I ask you if you had any objections to the scores and/or items that scored low. You said that you accept the scores and do not want to submit a grievance to NCRLAP. We reviewed and discussed requirements for enhanced ratios and enhanced space. You have chosen to meet enhanced ratios and enhanced space to receive six points in Program Standards. You must maintain compliance with enhanced space and enhanced ratios, or a violation will be cited once the rated license is issued. You will need to update the new staff/child ratio charts and you will need to post them in each space. Based on today's review you have the following points: Program Standards - 6 points Staff Education – further evaluation is needed. I requested that you contact me when their official transcripts have been mailed to the Raleigh office. Quality Point - 1 point for Staff Benefits Package, paid planning time, paid professional development for staff, insurance, paid vacation and paid sick time, and Infrastructure of Parent Involvement, quarterly newsletters, and parent conferences. You currently do not transport children. Reminders: You have completed your EPR Plan on November 9, 2023. It has been reviewed with all staff and documentation of the review was placed on file. You completed an emergency drill on November 29, 2023. You stated that you are using a curriculum as defined in Rule .0102(10). Learn Every Day is the curriculum you are using at the facility. You stated your facility will implement the Creative Curriculum beginning January 2, 2024. The rated license will be mailed to you from our Raleigh office. You must complete your annual fire inspection prior to March 28, 2024. Mail the original completed and approved fire inspection form to your child care consultant within one week after it is completed. Call your licensing consultant with any questions you may have. You can obtain the annual fire inspection form and Staff and Training Worksheet form under the provider tab, then provider documents and forms tab at www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Before your annual compliance visit is due, please complete the Staff and Training Worksheet form. Your annual compliance visit will be conducted prior to July 10, 2024. All staff must have completed the required applicable Health and Safety Training and/or On-Going Training requirements and have documentation on file for review prior to July 10, 2024. Your compliance history prior to today’s visit was at 88%. Any observed violations cited during visits will negatively affect the center's Compliance History Score. Your program must maintain a compliance score of at least 75% as required by G.S. 110-90 (4)(c). Your temporary license will end after January 10, 2024. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by December 18, 2023. Please include in that letter each violation number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov: Jennifer Roberts PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your corrective action plan letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (1) if the applicant owned or operated a licensed child care facility that was issued a denial, revocation, or summary suspension by the Division; (2) if the applicant owned or operated a licensed child care facility against which the Division initiated denial, revocation, or summary suspension proceedings and the applicant voluntarily relinquished the license prior to the issuance of a final action; (3) during the pendency of an appeal of a denial, revocation, or summary suspension of any other licensed child care facility license owned or operated by the applicant; (4) if the applicant owned or operated a facility that received a sanction for fraudulent misrepresentation pursuant to 10A NCAC 10 .0308 of the Subsidized Child Care Rules; (5) if the applicant owned or operated a facility that was issued a Notice of Termination and Disqualification by the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP); (6) if the Division determines that the applicant has a relationship with an operator or former operator who owned or operated a regulated child care facility as described in Subparagraphs (1) through (5) of this Paragraph. As used in this Rule, an applicant has a relationship with a former operator if the former owner or operator would be involved with the applicant's child care facility in one or more of the following ways: (A) would participate in the administration or operation of the facility; (B) has a financial interest in the operation of the facility, as evidenced by, among other things, a familial relationship with the former owner or operator, employment at the new facility, and ownership of the building or property where the facility is located; or entering into a lease for the building; (C) provides care to children at the facility, even as a volunteer; (D) resides in the facility; (E) has an ownership interest in the facility as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102(33); or (F) would serve on the facility's board of directors, be a partner of the corporation, or otherwise have responsibility for the administration of the business; (7) based on the applicant's previous non-compliance as an operator with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter; (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; (9) if abuse or neglect or child maltreatment has been substantiated against the applicant pursuant to G.S. 7B-101 or G.S. 110-105.5; or (10) if the applicant is a disqualified child care provider or has a disqualified household member residing in the child care facility pursuant to G.S. 110-90.2. (b) In determining whether denial of the application for a license is warranted pursuant to Paragraph (a) of this Rule, the Division shall consider: (1) any documentation provided by the applicant that describes the steps the applicant will take to prevent reoccurrence of noncompliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter; (2) training certificates or original transcripts for any coursework from a nationally recognized regionally accredited institution of higher learning related to providing quality child care, and that was taken subsequent to any prior administrative action against a license previously held by the applicant. "Nationally recognized" means that every state in this nation acknowledges the validity of the coursework taken at higher education institutions that meet the requirements of one of the accrediting bodies; (3) proof of employment in a licensed child care facility and references from the administrator or licensee of the child care facility regarding work performance; (4) documentation of collaboration or mentorship with a licensed child care provider to obtain additional knowledge and experience related to operation of a child care facility; or (5) documentation explaining relationships with persons meeting the criteria listed in Subparagraph (a)(6) of this Rule. (c) Operators who held a child care facility license or permit that was denied, revoked, subject to a cease operation order, or summarily suspended within the past five years shall be ineligible to apply for a new child care license. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, Jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-105 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/4/2023 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 12/4/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 299 Time In: 09:46 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit has been to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the third temporary time period visit. You, Sharon Burris, administrator, assisted me with the visit. Cynthia Corley, owner, also assisted with the visit. The Secretary of State website was checked on December 4, 2023, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC., is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, your consultant, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on July 10, 2023, with the following restrictions: Daytime care only, and max capacity of 40 children based on septic tank restriction. The last monthly fire drill was completed on November 30, 2023, at 9:45 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on November 6, 2023. The last sanitation inspection was completed on August 31, 2023, and you received a superior classification and zero (0) demerits. Three new staff files were reviewed. The menu for the week of December 4, 2023, was documented with appropriate nutritious meals and a snack, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. I received your Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License on October 3, 2023. I received your Rated License Assessment Request form on October 3, 2023. The Environment Rating Scale Assessment was requested on October 9, 2023. The Environment Rating Scale Assessments were completed on November 7, 2023, and November 14, 2023. The program received the following scores: ITERS-R 5.3, and ECERS-R 5.42. A review of each item on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment reports was discussed with you. I discussed with you that you will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding after your temporary license expires if you do not achieve at least a three-star rated license. Your temporary license will expire after January 10, 2024. An extension of time is not given, and your rated license points will be processed with the current points you have earned. The following violation was observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. S. Poole, lead teacher in space #1, had a hire date of November 3, 2023, and a medical report on file that was dated November 29, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) Item #1032 Staff must have a medical report on file prior to employment. The medical report on file for S. Poole was dated November 29, 2023, and had a hire date of November 3, 2023. I suggested that you use the Staff File Checklist as a guide to ensure requirements are met. You stated the employee had a medical prior to employment, but it was not on the correct form. I suggested in the future that you contact your consultant to ensure that the medical report could not be acceptable before destroying the document or returning the document to the employee. Consultation was provided on the following. I discussed and gave you suggestions on how to make changes to increase your scores for the ITERS-R, and ECERS-R. I ask you if you had any objections to the scores and/or items that scored low. You said that you accept the scores and do not want to submit a grievance to NCRLAP. We reviewed and discussed requirements for enhanced ratios and enhanced space. You have chosen to meet enhanced ratios and enhanced space to receive six points in Program Standards. You must maintain compliance with enhanced space and enhanced ratios, or a violation will be cited once the rated license is issued. You will need to update the new staff/child ratio charts and you will need to post them in each space. Based on today's review you have the following points: Program Standards - 6 points Staff Education – further evaluation is needed. I requested that you contact me when their official transcripts have been mailed to the Raleigh office. Quality Point - 1 point for Staff Benefits Package, paid planning time, paid professional development for staff, insurance, paid vacation and paid sick time, and Infrastructure of Parent Involvement, quarterly newsletters, and parent conferences. You currently do not transport children. Reminders: You have completed your EPR Plan on November 9, 2023. It has been reviewed with all staff and documentation of the review was placed on file. You completed an emergency drill on November 29, 2023. You stated that you are using a curriculum as defined in Rule .0102(10). Learn Every Day is the curriculum you are using at the facility. You stated your facility will implement the Creative Curriculum beginning January 2, 2024. The rated license will be mailed to you from our Raleigh office. You must complete your annual fire inspection prior to March 28, 2024. Mail the original completed and approved fire inspection form to your child care consultant within one week after it is completed. Call your licensing consultant with any questions you may have. You can obtain the annual fire inspection form and Staff and Training Worksheet form under the provider tab, then provider documents and forms tab at www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Before your annual compliance visit is due, please complete the Staff and Training Worksheet form. Your annual compliance visit will be conducted prior to July 10, 2024. All staff must have completed the required applicable Health and Safety Training and/or On-Going Training requirements and have documentation on file for review prior to July 10, 2024. Your compliance history prior to today’s visit was at 88%. Any observed violations cited during visits will negatively affect the center's Compliance History Score. Your program must maintain a compliance score of at least 75% as required by G.S. 110-90 (4)(c). Your temporary license will end after January 10, 2024. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by December 18, 2023. Please include in that letter each violation number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov: Jennifer Roberts PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your corrective action plan letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (1) if the applicant owned or operated a licensed child care facility that was issued a denial, revocation, or summary suspension by the Division; (2) if the applicant owned or operated a licensed child care facility against which the Division initiated denial, revocation, or summary suspension proceedings and the applicant voluntarily relinquished the license prior to the issuance of a final action; (3) during the pendency of an appeal of a denial, revocation, or summary suspension of any other licensed child care facility license owned or operated by the applicant; (4) if the applicant owned or operated a facility that received a sanction for fraudulent misrepresentation pursuant to 10A NCAC 10 .0308 of the Subsidized Child Care Rules; (5) if the applicant owned or operated a facility that was issued a Notice of Termination and Disqualification by the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP); (6) if the Division determines that the applicant has a relationship with an operator or former operator who owned or operated a regulated child care facility as described in Subparagraphs (1) through (5) of this Paragraph. As used in this Rule, an applicant has a relationship with a former operator if the former owner or operator would be involved with the applicant's child care facility in one or more of the following ways: (A) would participate in the administration or operation of the facility; (B) has a financial interest in the operation of the facility, as evidenced by, among other things, a familial relationship with the former owner or operator, employment at the new facility, and ownership of the building or property where the facility is located; or entering into a lease for the building; (C) provides care to children at the facility, even as a volunteer; (D) resides in the facility; (E) has an ownership interest in the facility as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102(33); or (F) would serve on the facility's board of directors, be a partner of the corporation, or otherwise have responsibility for the administration of the business; (7) based on the applicant's previous non-compliance as an operator with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter; (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; (9) if abuse or neglect or child maltreatment has been substantiated against the applicant pursuant to G.S. 7B-101 or G.S. 110-105.5; or (10) if the applicant is a disqualified child care provider or has a disqualified household member residing in the child care facility pursuant to G.S. 110-90.2. (b) In determining whether denial of the application for a license is warranted pursuant to Paragraph (a) of this Rule, the Division shall consider: (1) any documentation provided by the applicant that describes the steps the applicant will take to prevent reoccurrence of noncompliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter; (2) training certificates or original transcripts for any coursework from a nationally recognized regionally accredited institution of higher learning related to providing quality child care, and that was taken subsequent to any prior administrative action against a license previously held by the applicant. "Nationally recognized" means that every state in this nation acknowledges the validity of the coursework taken at higher education institutions that meet the requirements of one of the accrediting bodies; (3) proof of employment in a licensed child care facility and references from the administrator or licensee of the child care facility regarding work performance; (4) documentation of collaboration or mentorship with a licensed child care provider to obtain additional knowledge and experience related to operation of a child care facility; or (5) documentation explaining relationships with persons meeting the criteria listed in Subparagraph (a)(6) of this Rule. (c) Operators who held a child care facility license or permit that was denied, revoked, subject to a cease operation order, or summarily suspended within the past five years shall be ineligible to apply for a new child care license. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, Jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 12/4/2023 Number Present: 14 Completed Date: 12/4/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 299 Time In: 09:46 AM Time Out: 02:45 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit has been to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the third temporary time period visit. You, Sharon Burris, administrator, assisted me with the visit. Cynthia Corley, owner, also assisted with the visit. The Secretary of State website was checked on December 4, 2023, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC., is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, your consultant, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on July 10, 2023, with the following restrictions: Daytime care only, and max capacity of 40 children based on septic tank restriction. The last monthly fire drill was completed on November 30, 2023, at 9:45 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on November 6, 2023. The last sanitation inspection was completed on August 31, 2023, and you received a superior classification and zero (0) demerits. Three new staff files were reviewed. The menu for the week of December 4, 2023, was documented with appropriate nutritious meals and a snack, showed a variety of foods, and complied with Meal Patterns for Children in Child Care Programs. I received your Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License on October 3, 2023. I received your Rated License Assessment Request form on October 3, 2023. The Environment Rating Scale Assessment was requested on October 9, 2023. The Environment Rating Scale Assessments were completed on November 7, 2023, and November 14, 2023. The program received the following scores: ITERS-R 5.3, and ECERS-R 5.42. A review of each item on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment reports was discussed with you. I discussed with you that you will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding after your temporary license expires if you do not achieve at least a three-star rated license. Your temporary license will expire after January 10, 2024. An extension of time is not given, and your rated license points will be processed with the current points you have earned. The following violation was observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. S. Poole, lead teacher in space #1, had a hire date of November 3, 2023, and a medical report on file that was dated November 29, 2023. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) Item #1032 Staff must have a medical report on file prior to employment. The medical report on file for S. Poole was dated November 29, 2023, and had a hire date of November 3, 2023. I suggested that you use the Staff File Checklist as a guide to ensure requirements are met. You stated the employee had a medical prior to employment, but it was not on the correct form. I suggested in the future that you contact your consultant to ensure that the medical report could not be acceptable before destroying the document or returning the document to the employee. Consultation was provided on the following. I discussed and gave you suggestions on how to make changes to increase your scores for the ITERS-R, and ECERS-R. I ask you if you had any objections to the scores and/or items that scored low. You said that you accept the scores and do not want to submit a grievance to NCRLAP. We reviewed and discussed requirements for enhanced ratios and enhanced space. You have chosen to meet enhanced ratios and enhanced space to receive six points in Program Standards. You must maintain compliance with enhanced space and enhanced ratios, or a violation will be cited once the rated license is issued. You will need to update the new staff/child ratio charts and you will need to post them in each space. Based on today's review you have the following points: Program Standards - 6 points Staff Education – further evaluation is needed. I requested that you contact me when their official transcripts have been mailed to the Raleigh office. Quality Point - 1 point for Staff Benefits Package, paid planning time, paid professional development for staff, insurance, paid vacation and paid sick time, and Infrastructure of Parent Involvement, quarterly newsletters, and parent conferences. You currently do not transport children. Reminders: You have completed your EPR Plan on November 9, 2023. It has been reviewed with all staff and documentation of the review was placed on file. You completed an emergency drill on November 29, 2023. You stated that you are using a curriculum as defined in Rule .0102(10). Learn Every Day is the curriculum you are using at the facility. You stated your facility will implement the Creative Curriculum beginning January 2, 2024. The rated license will be mailed to you from our Raleigh office. You must complete your annual fire inspection prior to March 28, 2024. Mail the original completed and approved fire inspection form to your child care consultant within one week after it is completed. Call your licensing consultant with any questions you may have. You can obtain the annual fire inspection form and Staff and Training Worksheet form under the provider tab, then provider documents and forms tab at www.ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. Before your annual compliance visit is due, please complete the Staff and Training Worksheet form. Your annual compliance visit will be conducted prior to July 10, 2024. All staff must have completed the required applicable Health and Safety Training and/or On-Going Training requirements and have documentation on file for review prior to July 10, 2024. Your compliance history prior to today’s visit was at 88%. Any observed violations cited during visits will negatively affect the center's Compliance History Score. Your program must maintain a compliance score of at least 75% as required by G.S. 110-90 (4)(c). Your temporary license will end after January 10, 2024. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by December 18, 2023. Please include in that letter each violation number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov: Jennifer Roberts PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your corrective action plan letter that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. 10A NCAC 09 .2215 DENIAL OF A LICENSE (a) The Secretary may deny an application for a child care facility license or the issuance of any permit to operate a child care facility under the following circumstances: (1) if the applicant owned or operated a licensed child care facility that was issued a denial, revocation, or summary suspension by the Division; (2) if the applicant owned or operated a licensed child care facility against which the Division initiated denial, revocation, or summary suspension proceedings and the applicant voluntarily relinquished the license prior to the issuance of a final action; (3) during the pendency of an appeal of a denial, revocation, or summary suspension of any other licensed child care facility license owned or operated by the applicant; (4) if the applicant owned or operated a facility that received a sanction for fraudulent misrepresentation pursuant to 10A NCAC 10 .0308 of the Subsidized Child Care Rules; (5) if the applicant owned or operated a facility that was issued a Notice of Termination and Disqualification by the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP); (6) if the Division determines that the applicant has a relationship with an operator or former operator who owned or operated a regulated child care facility as described in Subparagraphs (1) through (5) of this Paragraph. As used in this Rule, an applicant has a relationship with a former operator if the former owner or operator would be involved with the applicant's child care facility in one or more of the following ways: (A) would participate in the administration or operation of the facility; (B) has a financial interest in the operation of the facility, as evidenced by, among other things, a familial relationship with the former owner or operator, employment at the new facility, and ownership of the building or property where the facility is located; or entering into a lease for the building; (C) provides care to children at the facility, even as a volunteer; (D) resides in the facility; (E) has an ownership interest in the facility as defined in 10A NCAC 09 .0102(33); or (F) would serve on the facility's board of directors, be a partner of the corporation, or otherwise have responsibility for the administration of the business; (7) based on the applicant's previous non-compliance as an operator with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter; (8) based on the operator’s non-compliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter, during a temporary licensure period; (9) if abuse or neglect or child maltreatment has been substantiated against the applicant pursuant to G.S. 7B-101 or G.S. 110-105.5; or (10) if the applicant is a disqualified child care provider or has a disqualified household member residing in the child care facility pursuant to G.S. 110-90.2. (b) In determining whether denial of the application for a license is warranted pursuant to Paragraph (a) of this Rule, the Division shall consider: (1) any documentation provided by the applicant that describes the steps the applicant will take to prevent reoccurrence of noncompliance with the requirements of G.S. 110, Article 7, 10A NCAC 10, or this Chapter; (2) training certificates or original transcripts for any coursework from a nationally recognized regionally accredited institution of higher learning related to providing quality child care, and that was taken subsequent to any prior administrative action against a license previously held by the applicant. "Nationally recognized" means that every state in this nation acknowledges the validity of the coursework taken at higher education institutions that meet the requirements of one of the accrediting bodies; (3) proof of employment in a licensed child care facility and references from the administrator or licensee of the child care facility regarding work performance; (4) documentation of collaboration or mentorship with a licensed child care provider to obtain additional knowledge and experience related to operation of a child care facility; or (5) documentation explaining relationships with persons meeting the criteria listed in Subparagraph (a)(6) of this Rule. (c) Operators who held a child care facility license or permit that was denied, revoked, subject to a cease operation order, or summarily suspended within the past five years shall be ineligible to apply for a new child care license. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, Jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .2201 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/3/2023 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 10/3/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 368 Time In: 10:59 AM Time Out: 05:07 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit has been to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the second temporary time period visit. You, Quinterra Yates, administrator, Cynthia Corley, owner, assisted me with the visit. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC, is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, your consultant, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on July 10, 2023, with the following restrictions: Daytime care only and max capacity 40 children based on septic tank restriction. During this second Temporary Time Period visit, the classrooms were monitored as well as the playground, materials, equipment and required posted items for meeting all minimum licensing requirements. The last monthly fire drill was completed on September 28, 2023, at 9:40 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on October 2, 2023. A sample of three children’s files were reviewed. Two new staff files were reviewed. A menu was posted and dated for breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack, and evening snack and all food listed met the nutritional requirements. I requested that you be more specific with your menus by naming the type of cereal you are serving (Cheerios, Shredded Wheat, Kix, etc.) and the flavor of 100% fruit juice (Apple, orange, grape, etc.). The daily schedule was posted. You said that you are going to apply for the rated license and request to have the Environment Rating Scale Assessment completed. As we discussed, the Environment Rating Scale Assessment could possibly help you in achieving at least a three-star child care license. We discussed and I gave you a copy of the Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License and the Rated License Assessment Request form today to complete and return to me. You completed this form during the visit. To allow time for the assessment to be requested, completed, score received and reviewed, and the rated license packet to be completed, I will submit the request to have the Environment Rating Scale assessment completed by October 6, 2023. As a reminder, a representative employed with the NC Rated License Assessment Project will contact you to schedule a four-week window with five black out dates. We reviewed and discussed Program Standard points, Staff Education points and Quality point options. Another review of these points will be conducted during your third Temporary Time Period Visit. I discussed with you that programs with less than a three-star license will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding. All staff must establish a DCDEE WORKS account and have their education evaluations completed by Workforce by November 10, 2023. Documentation from Workforce on the results of the education evaluation must be on file for review for each staff member. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. In space #3, one lead teacher was caring for nine (9) children, ranging from one year of age to two years of age. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. Three cribs in space #4a were placed side by side less than 18 inches apart and no partition separating the cribs while in use. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 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 #4a, one plastic green bag was hanging on a hook less than five feet from ground level above the sink to the left of the diaper 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. On October 2, 2023, one infant, 2 months of age had a visual sleep chart that listed 9:30 am -sleep and 11:15 am-awake, 11:50 am-sleep and 12:30 pm-awake, 1:15 pm-sleep, 2:30 pm-awake. Another infant two months of age had a visual sleep chart that listed 9:35 am-sleep, and 10:10 am-awake, 12 pm-sleep and 12:30 pm-awake. A third infant, five months of age had a visual sleep chart that listed 11:20 am-sleep and 11:55 am-awake. On October 3, 2023, one infant, two months of age had a visual sleep chart that listed 9:35 am-sleep and 10:30 am-awake. Another infant two months of age had a visual sleep chart that listed 9:20 am-sleep and 10:25 am-awake. A third infant, eleven months of age had a visual sleep chart that listed 10 am-sleep and 10:30 am-awake. .0606(g) 1831 At least one child care provider, who has completed ITS-SIDS training was not present in the infant room, while children were in care. In space #4a, one lead teacher with a hire date of September 25, 2023, was caring for five infants. The lead teacher in the space had not completed the ITS/SIDS training. No other child care provider with ITS/SIDS training was in the space upon my arrival at 10:59 am. .01102 (f) Technical assistance was provided on the following: Item #301 Staff/child ratios for the youngest child in the group must be maintained at all times. In space #3, one staff was caring for nine children, ranging from one year of age to two years of age. We discussed minimum staff child ratios and how to read the ratio chart that is posted in each space. Ratio charts had been moved and I reminded you to look at the chart to see what the ratios and groups sizes are for the youngest child in the group. Item #887 Infants must be visually checked on at least every fifteen minutes while asleep. The date and times must be recorded. The times must be on a sleep chart log and have the required information listed. The sleep charts posted in space #4a and #4b listed the time the infant went to sleep and no other time listed until the time the infant woke up. I reminded you that staff must document every 15 minutes while the infant is sleeping and the times and what was observed while the infant was sleeping. Was the infant on their tummy, side, or back? I suggested that you review Infant Sleep Charts with trained staff to ensure that they understand how to complete the visual checks. I suggested that you place a digital clock in the room for ease of recording the times while the infant is sleeping. Item #858 In space #4a, one green plastic bag was hanging on a hook above the sink less than five feet from ground level to the left of the diaper changing table. The plastic bag contained a child’s shirt that needed to be returned to the parent. I discussed with you that all plastic bags and items made of plastic materials must be stored at least five feet from ground level or placed in locked storage. Item #1831 One caregiver was caring for four infants in space #4a but the caregiver had not completed the ITS/SIDS training. She did however document times the infant was asleep and awake. We discussed that only those caregivers that have completed the ITS/SIDS and have current certification are permitted to complete the visual checks for when the infants are asleep. A caregiver with current certification is required to be in the room with infants at all times. Item #614 Three cribs in space #4a were placed less than 18 inches apart. They were placed side by side with no solid barrier in between each crib. I suggested that you remove a few of the cribs that are not being used or you place the cribs end to end where the solid barrier separates the cribs. Consultation was provided on the following. • A fire extinguisher and a first aid kit must be placed in the vehicle used to transport children from school. You had a fire extinguisher and first aid kit available to place in the vehicle prior to providing transportation. • Staff will need to create a DCDEE WORKS account and submit official transcripts so their education can be evaluated. Please assist staff with creating and submitting their education in the Workforce Unit in the Raleigh office. On the DCDEE website choose the Provider tab, DCDEE WORKS, and review the DCDEE WORKS Training Simulator Step-by-Step Instructions. Let me know if you have any questions or problems getting this task completed. The following is general information for you to review to prepare for the Environment Rating Scale Assessment. ITERS-R and ECERS-R A variety of different types of blocks such as wooden unit blocks, soft unit blocks, cardboard blocks, and homemade blocks with enough blocks in each set for at least three children to build a structure should be provided. The block center should be large enough for three children to build a substantial structure without interfering with one each other’s play. Art projects should allow individual expression by children. Copied, cookie cutter type art projects do not offer children an opportunity for individual expression. Allow children to choose the art media of their choice and provide a variety of materials. The following are suggestions for art materials: markers, chalk, colored pencils, paper, crayons, dry erase markers, finger paint, tape, glue, stickers, small pieces of paper, play dough, clay, hole punchers, stencils, stamps, and scissors. Children under three years age should not have access to materials that would be considered choking hazards such as foam items, small crayons, small pieces of chalk, plastic bags, items easily torn apart or that would fit in a choking tube. You can use these materials under direct teacher supervision working one on one with the child during the art activity. Display in the classroom should be primarily children’s work and not teacher or store-bought display. Children’s art should be posted on their eye level. Avoid long periods of waiting during transitions such as bathroom time or from one activity to another. Develop ideas and strategies to reduce waiting time for children. Teachers can sing songs and do finger plays with the children who are waiting. If children wait more than three minutes without activity, then you will be marked down on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment score. Items such as puzzles and games that are missing pieces should be removed from the classroom and replaced. The classroom should have at least two books per child that are age appropriate for the children in the group. I suggested that books that portray violence be removed. A variety of books that portray real animal pictures, families, disabilities, and different cultures should be added to each classroom. Remove any books that are worn, torn or missing pages. I suggested that you have or purchase hats; boys dress shirts, ties, jerseys and dress coats from a consignment shop, yard sale or dollar store to enhance the dramatic play center. Other items that enhance dramatic play are telephone books, cooking aprons, restaurant menus, calculators, cash registers, cookbooks, and baby doll accessories. Add pictures, books, puzzles, block play people, baby dolls, music, play food and dress-up clothes that represent different cultures. Add pictures, puzzles and block play people that represent people of all ages and disabilities. Review your daily schedule and free play allotted times. Free play times need to be listed separate from all other activities such as hand washing, preparing to go home etc. All centers/materials should be accessible to children during free play. Water must be available to children throughout the day. Always have a pitcher of water and cups for children available. Tables must be cleaned with soapy water then wiped dry. Then spray table with the sanitizing solution and let it sit for at least two minutes before wiping dry. Follow this procedure before and after eating. Make sure no children are near the table when spraying the sanitizing solution. The sinks must be disinfected between changes of use. The staff should spray the sink with the disinfectant spray and allow the disinfectant to stay for at least two minutes before turning on the water and using the sink. All children must have their diapers or pull-ups checked or changed at least every two hours and when soiled. Use a timer or follow a daily individual diaper changing schedule to keep you within the two-hour timeframe. Children must wash their hands upon arrival, before and after eating, before and after sand and water play, after toileting, after outdoor play, after handling messy art materials such as paint, glue, and playdough and after touching nose, mouth, floor, trashcan, and anything else that re-contaminates the hands. Staff should follow proper handwashing procedures and wash their hands as required. Remove mouthed items from play immediately and sanitize before allowing other children to play with item. You must interact with children in relation to their play with materials. At least two instances must be observed. Math/number - One instance must be observed during routine care as well as during free play of using math/number. SACERS-U Avoid long periods of waiting during transitions such as bathroom time or from one activity to another. Develop ideas and strategies to reduce waiting time for children. Teachers can sing songs and do finger plays with the children who are waiting. If children wait more than three minutes without activity, then you will be marked down on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment score. Display children’s artwork in the classrooms. Include 2-D and 3-D art and craft projects to complete on the activity plan and display. Staff members should sit with children during meals and when possible, during snacks. Handwashing is required when: After children use the toilet or after assisting individual children with toileting routines. Immediately before meal or snack preparation and eating as well as after eating. (Remember to avoid recontamination of hands that can occur when unclean surfaces such as floors or toys are touched before eating.) Upon arrival and after outdoor play After messy activities (e.g., sand play, play dough). Before/after group water play After dealing with bodily fluids (e.g., wiping noses, coughing into hands, bandaging a scraped knee), even if gloves are used. Child sized tables and chairs must be correctly sized for at least 75% of children to receive credit. Gross motor equipment must be sturdy, age appropriate and stimulate many skills such as climbing, balancing, hanging by arms, sliding, riding tricycles and bicycles. You must have a variety of portable materials in good repair accessible to play individual and group gross motor games that stimulate many skills. Active play must occur indoors when they cannot not go outdoors due to precipitating weather. Make sure to always follow the weather watch chart to determine if weather is permitting for outdoor activities. Dramatic Play - Staff must extend dramatic play by offering suggestions, finding appropriate space, and assisting development of dramatic play roles. Language and reading activities - Children should be encouraged to use reading/writing in practical situations such as reading instructions for games, write letters to friends, and retrieve information online. Math and reasoning - Staff must encourage children to practice math/reasoning skills in daily activities such as recording scores for games, younger children set table with correct number of plates/napkins, measure and cut craft material accurately. Science and nature activities - Some science/nature books must be used to extend children’s information. Such as a book open on table near collection of pinecones and acorns, book about insect specimens and staff use the books to answer children’s questions about materials. Greetings and departure - Staff must acknowledge and personally greet children during arrival and departure. Staff and child communication - Staff and children’s conversations must be frequent. Language should be generally used by staff to exchange information with children and for social interaction. Most of the language observed during the assessment should be personal conversation and talking about topics of mutual interest rather than all directive language. Children should be asked why, how, what if questions that require longer and more complex answers. Children must be free to decide not to participate in any activity they choose. For example, if the teacher does a group time activity, the teacher cannot require all children to participate. Children should be given alternate activities. Tables must be cleaned with soapy water then wiped dry. Then spray with sanitizing solution and let sit for at least two minutes before wiping dry. Follow this procedure before and after eating. Make sure no children are near the table when spraying sanitizing solution. The sinks must be disinfected between changes of use. The staff should spray the sink with the disinfectant spray and allow the disinfectant to stay for at least two minutes before turning on the water and using the sink. Schedule - At least one fine motor/language activity must be scheduled daily. Staff need to read with children each day. This would be a free choice activity for children to choose to listen to the book. Since you want to have the Environment Rating Scale completed, I recommended that you visit www.ncrlap.org for supplemental materials for preparing for the Environment Rating Scale Assessments. Additional notes to the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale Revised Edition can be obtained on this website. NCRLAP also offers Webinar training for staff. I also recommended that you register staff now for the upcoming Webinar training listed on the ncrlap.org website. Contact your local Child Care Resource and Referral office for further technical assistance with the Environment Rating Scales. Reminders: Any observed violations cited during visits will negatively affect the center's Compliance History Score. Your program must maintain a compliance score of at least 75% as required by G.S. 110-90 (4)(c). Your temporary license will end after January 10, 2024. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by October 17, 2023. Please include in that letter each violation number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov: Jennifer Roberts PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your corrective action plan letter, that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/3/2023 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 10/3/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 368 Time In: 10:59 AM Time Out: 05:07 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit has been to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the second temporary time period visit. You, Quinterra Yates, administrator, Cynthia Corley, owner, assisted me with the visit. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC, is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, your consultant, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on July 10, 2023, with the following restrictions: Daytime care only and max capacity 40 children based on septic tank restriction. During this second Temporary Time Period visit, the classrooms were monitored as well as the playground, materials, equipment and required posted items for meeting all minimum licensing requirements. The last monthly fire drill was completed on September 28, 2023, at 9:40 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on October 2, 2023. A sample of three children’s files were reviewed. Two new staff files were reviewed. A menu was posted and dated for breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack, and evening snack and all food listed met the nutritional requirements. I requested that you be more specific with your menus by naming the type of cereal you are serving (Cheerios, Shredded Wheat, Kix, etc.) and the flavor of 100% fruit juice (Apple, orange, grape, etc.). The daily schedule was posted. You said that you are going to apply for the rated license and request to have the Environment Rating Scale Assessment completed. As we discussed, the Environment Rating Scale Assessment could possibly help you in achieving at least a three-star child care license. We discussed and I gave you a copy of the Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License and the Rated License Assessment Request form today to complete and return to me. You completed this form during the visit. To allow time for the assessment to be requested, completed, score received and reviewed, and the rated license packet to be completed, I will submit the request to have the Environment Rating Scale assessment completed by October 6, 2023. As a reminder, a representative employed with the NC Rated License Assessment Project will contact you to schedule a four-week window with five black out dates. We reviewed and discussed Program Standard points, Staff Education points and Quality point options. Another review of these points will be conducted during your third Temporary Time Period Visit. I discussed with you that programs with less than a three-star license will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding. All staff must establish a DCDEE WORKS account and have their education evaluations completed by Workforce by November 10, 2023. Documentation from Workforce on the results of the education evaluation must be on file for review for each staff member. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. In space #3, one lead teacher was caring for nine (9) children, ranging from one year of age to two years of age. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. Three cribs in space #4a were placed side by side less than 18 inches apart and no partition separating the cribs while in use. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 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 #4a, one plastic green bag was hanging on a hook less than five feet from ground level above the sink to the left of the diaper 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. On October 2, 2023, one infant, 2 months of age had a visual sleep chart that listed 9:30 am -sleep and 11:15 am-awake, 11:50 am-sleep and 12:30 pm-awake, 1:15 pm-sleep, 2:30 pm-awake. Another infant two months of age had a visual sleep chart that listed 9:35 am-sleep, and 10:10 am-awake, 12 pm-sleep and 12:30 pm-awake. A third infant, five months of age had a visual sleep chart that listed 11:20 am-sleep and 11:55 am-awake. On October 3, 2023, one infant, two months of age had a visual sleep chart that listed 9:35 am-sleep and 10:30 am-awake. Another infant two months of age had a visual sleep chart that listed 9:20 am-sleep and 10:25 am-awake. A third infant, eleven months of age had a visual sleep chart that listed 10 am-sleep and 10:30 am-awake. .0606(g) 1831 At least one child care provider, who has completed ITS-SIDS training was not present in the infant room, while children were in care. In space #4a, one lead teacher with a hire date of September 25, 2023, was caring for five infants. The lead teacher in the space had not completed the ITS/SIDS training. No other child care provider with ITS/SIDS training was in the space upon my arrival at 10:59 am. .01102 (f) Technical assistance was provided on the following: Item #301 Staff/child ratios for the youngest child in the group must be maintained at all times. In space #3, one staff was caring for nine children, ranging from one year of age to two years of age. We discussed minimum staff child ratios and how to read the ratio chart that is posted in each space. Ratio charts had been moved and I reminded you to look at the chart to see what the ratios and groups sizes are for the youngest child in the group. Item #887 Infants must be visually checked on at least every fifteen minutes while asleep. The date and times must be recorded. The times must be on a sleep chart log and have the required information listed. The sleep charts posted in space #4a and #4b listed the time the infant went to sleep and no other time listed until the time the infant woke up. I reminded you that staff must document every 15 minutes while the infant is sleeping and the times and what was observed while the infant was sleeping. Was the infant on their tummy, side, or back? I suggested that you review Infant Sleep Charts with trained staff to ensure that they understand how to complete the visual checks. I suggested that you place a digital clock in the room for ease of recording the times while the infant is sleeping. Item #858 In space #4a, one green plastic bag was hanging on a hook above the sink less than five feet from ground level to the left of the diaper changing table. The plastic bag contained a child’s shirt that needed to be returned to the parent. I discussed with you that all plastic bags and items made of plastic materials must be stored at least five feet from ground level or placed in locked storage. Item #1831 One caregiver was caring for four infants in space #4a but the caregiver had not completed the ITS/SIDS training. She did however document times the infant was asleep and awake. We discussed that only those caregivers that have completed the ITS/SIDS and have current certification are permitted to complete the visual checks for when the infants are asleep. A caregiver with current certification is required to be in the room with infants at all times. Item #614 Three cribs in space #4a were placed less than 18 inches apart. They were placed side by side with no solid barrier in between each crib. I suggested that you remove a few of the cribs that are not being used or you place the cribs end to end where the solid barrier separates the cribs. Consultation was provided on the following. • A fire extinguisher and a first aid kit must be placed in the vehicle used to transport children from school. You had a fire extinguisher and first aid kit available to place in the vehicle prior to providing transportation. • Staff will need to create a DCDEE WORKS account and submit official transcripts so their education can be evaluated. Please assist staff with creating and submitting their education in the Workforce Unit in the Raleigh office. On the DCDEE website choose the Provider tab, DCDEE WORKS, and review the DCDEE WORKS Training Simulator Step-by-Step Instructions. Let me know if you have any questions or problems getting this task completed. The following is general information for you to review to prepare for the Environment Rating Scale Assessment. ITERS-R and ECERS-R A variety of different types of blocks such as wooden unit blocks, soft unit blocks, cardboard blocks, and homemade blocks with enough blocks in each set for at least three children to build a structure should be provided. The block center should be large enough for three children to build a substantial structure without interfering with one each other’s play. Art projects should allow individual expression by children. Copied, cookie cutter type art projects do not offer children an opportunity for individual expression. Allow children to choose the art media of their choice and provide a variety of materials. The following are suggestions for art materials: markers, chalk, colored pencils, paper, crayons, dry erase markers, finger paint, tape, glue, stickers, small pieces of paper, play dough, clay, hole punchers, stencils, stamps, and scissors. Children under three years age should not have access to materials that would be considered choking hazards such as foam items, small crayons, small pieces of chalk, plastic bags, items easily torn apart or that would fit in a choking tube. You can use these materials under direct teacher supervision working one on one with the child during the art activity. Display in the classroom should be primarily children’s work and not teacher or store-bought display. Children’s art should be posted on their eye level. Avoid long periods of waiting during transitions such as bathroom time or from one activity to another. Develop ideas and strategies to reduce waiting time for children. Teachers can sing songs and do finger plays with the children who are waiting. If children wait more than three minutes without activity, then you will be marked down on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment score. Items such as puzzles and games that are missing pieces should be removed from the classroom and replaced. The classroom should have at least two books per child that are age appropriate for the children in the group. I suggested that books that portray violence be removed. A variety of books that portray real animal pictures, families, disabilities, and different cultures should be added to each classroom. Remove any books that are worn, torn or missing pages. I suggested that you have or purchase hats; boys dress shirts, ties, jerseys and dress coats from a consignment shop, yard sale or dollar store to enhance the dramatic play center. Other items that enhance dramatic play are telephone books, cooking aprons, restaurant menus, calculators, cash registers, cookbooks, and baby doll accessories. Add pictures, books, puzzles, block play people, baby dolls, music, play food and dress-up clothes that represent different cultures. Add pictures, puzzles and block play people that represent people of all ages and disabilities. Review your daily schedule and free play allotted times. Free play times need to be listed separate from all other activities such as hand washing, preparing to go home etc. All centers/materials should be accessible to children during free play. Water must be available to children throughout the day. Always have a pitcher of water and cups for children available. Tables must be cleaned with soapy water then wiped dry. Then spray table with the sanitizing solution and let it sit for at least two minutes before wiping dry. Follow this procedure before and after eating. Make sure no children are near the table when spraying the sanitizing solution. The sinks must be disinfected between changes of use. The staff should spray the sink with the disinfectant spray and allow the disinfectant to stay for at least two minutes before turning on the water and using the sink. All children must have their diapers or pull-ups checked or changed at least every two hours and when soiled. Use a timer or follow a daily individual diaper changing schedule to keep you within the two-hour timeframe. Children must wash their hands upon arrival, before and after eating, before and after sand and water play, after toileting, after outdoor play, after handling messy art materials such as paint, glue, and playdough and after touching nose, mouth, floor, trashcan, and anything else that re-contaminates the hands. Staff should follow proper handwashing procedures and wash their hands as required. Remove mouthed items from play immediately and sanitize before allowing other children to play with item. You must interact with children in relation to their play with materials. At least two instances must be observed. Math/number - One instance must be observed during routine care as well as during free play of using math/number. SACERS-U Avoid long periods of waiting during transitions such as bathroom time or from one activity to another. Develop ideas and strategies to reduce waiting time for children. Teachers can sing songs and do finger plays with the children who are waiting. If children wait more than three minutes without activity, then you will be marked down on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment score. Display children’s artwork in the classrooms. Include 2-D and 3-D art and craft projects to complete on the activity plan and display. Staff members should sit with children during meals and when possible, during snacks. Handwashing is required when: After children use the toilet or after assisting individual children with toileting routines. Immediately before meal or snack preparation and eating as well as after eating. (Remember to avoid recontamination of hands that can occur when unclean surfaces such as floors or toys are touched before eating.) Upon arrival and after outdoor play After messy activities (e.g., sand play, play dough). Before/after group water play After dealing with bodily fluids (e.g., wiping noses, coughing into hands, bandaging a scraped knee), even if gloves are used. Child sized tables and chairs must be correctly sized for at least 75% of children to receive credit. Gross motor equipment must be sturdy, age appropriate and stimulate many skills such as climbing, balancing, hanging by arms, sliding, riding tricycles and bicycles. You must have a variety of portable materials in good repair accessible to play individual and group gross motor games that stimulate many skills. Active play must occur indoors when they cannot not go outdoors due to precipitating weather. Make sure to always follow the weather watch chart to determine if weather is permitting for outdoor activities. Dramatic Play - Staff must extend dramatic play by offering suggestions, finding appropriate space, and assisting development of dramatic play roles. Language and reading activities - Children should be encouraged to use reading/writing in practical situations such as reading instructions for games, write letters to friends, and retrieve information online. Math and reasoning - Staff must encourage children to practice math/reasoning skills in daily activities such as recording scores for games, younger children set table with correct number of plates/napkins, measure and cut craft material accurately. Science and nature activities - Some science/nature books must be used to extend children’s information. Such as a book open on table near collection of pinecones and acorns, book about insect specimens and staff use the books to answer children’s questions about materials. Greetings and departure - Staff must acknowledge and personally greet children during arrival and departure. Staff and child communication - Staff and children’s conversations must be frequent. Language should be generally used by staff to exchange information with children and for social interaction. Most of the language observed during the assessment should be personal conversation and talking about topics of mutual interest rather than all directive language. Children should be asked why, how, what if questions that require longer and more complex answers. Children must be free to decide not to participate in any activity they choose. For example, if the teacher does a group time activity, the teacher cannot require all children to participate. Children should be given alternate activities. Tables must be cleaned with soapy water then wiped dry. Then spray with sanitizing solution and let sit for at least two minutes before wiping dry. Follow this procedure before and after eating. Make sure no children are near the table when spraying sanitizing solution. The sinks must be disinfected between changes of use. The staff should spray the sink with the disinfectant spray and allow the disinfectant to stay for at least two minutes before turning on the water and using the sink. Schedule - At least one fine motor/language activity must be scheduled daily. Staff need to read with children each day. This would be a free choice activity for children to choose to listen to the book. Since you want to have the Environment Rating Scale completed, I recommended that you visit www.ncrlap.org for supplemental materials for preparing for the Environment Rating Scale Assessments. Additional notes to the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale Revised Edition can be obtained on this website. NCRLAP also offers Webinar training for staff. I also recommended that you register staff now for the upcoming Webinar training listed on the ncrlap.org website. Contact your local Child Care Resource and Referral office for further technical assistance with the Environment Rating Scales. Reminders: Any observed violations cited during visits will negatively affect the center's Compliance History Score. Your program must maintain a compliance score of at least 75% as required by G.S. 110-90 (4)(c). Your temporary license will end after January 10, 2024. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by October 17, 2023. Please include in that letter each violation number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov: Jennifer Roberts PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your corrective action plan letter, that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/3/2023 Number Present: 18 Completed Date: 10/3/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 368 Time In: 10:59 AM Time Out: 05:07 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit has been to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the second temporary time period visit. You, Quinterra Yates, administrator, Cynthia Corley, owner, assisted me with the visit. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC, is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify me, your consultant, at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on July 10, 2023, with the following restrictions: Daytime care only and max capacity 40 children based on septic tank restriction. During this second Temporary Time Period visit, the classrooms were monitored as well as the playground, materials, equipment and required posted items for meeting all minimum licensing requirements. The last monthly fire drill was completed on September 28, 2023, at 9:40 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on October 2, 2023. A sample of three children’s files were reviewed. Two new staff files were reviewed. A menu was posted and dated for breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack, and evening snack and all food listed met the nutritional requirements. I requested that you be more specific with your menus by naming the type of cereal you are serving (Cheerios, Shredded Wheat, Kix, etc.) and the flavor of 100% fruit juice (Apple, orange, grape, etc.). The daily schedule was posted. You said that you are going to apply for the rated license and request to have the Environment Rating Scale Assessment completed. As we discussed, the Environment Rating Scale Assessment could possibly help you in achieving at least a three-star child care license. We discussed and I gave you a copy of the Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License and the Rated License Assessment Request form today to complete and return to me. You completed this form during the visit. To allow time for the assessment to be requested, completed, score received and reviewed, and the rated license packet to be completed, I will submit the request to have the Environment Rating Scale assessment completed by October 6, 2023. As a reminder, a representative employed with the NC Rated License Assessment Project will contact you to schedule a four-week window with five black out dates. We reviewed and discussed Program Standard points, Staff Education points and Quality point options. Another review of these points will be conducted during your third Temporary Time Period Visit. I discussed with you that programs with less than a three-star license will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding. All staff must establish a DCDEE WORKS account and have their education evaluations completed by Workforce by November 10, 2023. Documentation from Workforce on the results of the education evaluation must be on file for review for each staff member. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 301 Minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes for the number and ages of children in care were not met. In space #3, one lead teacher was caring for nine (9) children, ranging from one year of age to two years of age. GS 110-91(7);.0713(a-d) 614 Bed, cribs, playpens, cots or mats were not placed at least 18" apart or separated by partitions when in use. Three cribs in space #4a were placed side by side less than 18 inches apart and no partition separating the cribs while in use. 15A NCAC 18A .2821(e) 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 #4a, one plastic green bag was hanging on a hook less than five feet from ground level above the sink to the left of the diaper 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. On October 2, 2023, one infant, 2 months of age had a visual sleep chart that listed 9:30 am -sleep and 11:15 am-awake, 11:50 am-sleep and 12:30 pm-awake, 1:15 pm-sleep, 2:30 pm-awake. Another infant two months of age had a visual sleep chart that listed 9:35 am-sleep, and 10:10 am-awake, 12 pm-sleep and 12:30 pm-awake. A third infant, five months of age had a visual sleep chart that listed 11:20 am-sleep and 11:55 am-awake. On October 3, 2023, one infant, two months of age had a visual sleep chart that listed 9:35 am-sleep and 10:30 am-awake. Another infant two months of age had a visual sleep chart that listed 9:20 am-sleep and 10:25 am-awake. A third infant, eleven months of age had a visual sleep chart that listed 10 am-sleep and 10:30 am-awake. .0606(g) 1831 At least one child care provider, who has completed ITS-SIDS training was not present in the infant room, while children were in care. In space #4a, one lead teacher with a hire date of September 25, 2023, was caring for five infants. The lead teacher in the space had not completed the ITS/SIDS training. No other child care provider with ITS/SIDS training was in the space upon my arrival at 10:59 am. .01102 (f) Technical assistance was provided on the following: Item #301 Staff/child ratios for the youngest child in the group must be maintained at all times. In space #3, one staff was caring for nine children, ranging from one year of age to two years of age. We discussed minimum staff child ratios and how to read the ratio chart that is posted in each space. Ratio charts had been moved and I reminded you to look at the chart to see what the ratios and groups sizes are for the youngest child in the group. Item #887 Infants must be visually checked on at least every fifteen minutes while asleep. The date and times must be recorded. The times must be on a sleep chart log and have the required information listed. The sleep charts posted in space #4a and #4b listed the time the infant went to sleep and no other time listed until the time the infant woke up. I reminded you that staff must document every 15 minutes while the infant is sleeping and the times and what was observed while the infant was sleeping. Was the infant on their tummy, side, or back? I suggested that you review Infant Sleep Charts with trained staff to ensure that they understand how to complete the visual checks. I suggested that you place a digital clock in the room for ease of recording the times while the infant is sleeping. Item #858 In space #4a, one green plastic bag was hanging on a hook above the sink less than five feet from ground level to the left of the diaper changing table. The plastic bag contained a child’s shirt that needed to be returned to the parent. I discussed with you that all plastic bags and items made of plastic materials must be stored at least five feet from ground level or placed in locked storage. Item #1831 One caregiver was caring for four infants in space #4a but the caregiver had not completed the ITS/SIDS training. She did however document times the infant was asleep and awake. We discussed that only those caregivers that have completed the ITS/SIDS and have current certification are permitted to complete the visual checks for when the infants are asleep. A caregiver with current certification is required to be in the room with infants at all times. Item #614 Three cribs in space #4a were placed less than 18 inches apart. They were placed side by side with no solid barrier in between each crib. I suggested that you remove a few of the cribs that are not being used or you place the cribs end to end where the solid barrier separates the cribs. Consultation was provided on the following. • A fire extinguisher and a first aid kit must be placed in the vehicle used to transport children from school. You had a fire extinguisher and first aid kit available to place in the vehicle prior to providing transportation. • Staff will need to create a DCDEE WORKS account and submit official transcripts so their education can be evaluated. Please assist staff with creating and submitting their education in the Workforce Unit in the Raleigh office. On the DCDEE website choose the Provider tab, DCDEE WORKS, and review the DCDEE WORKS Training Simulator Step-by-Step Instructions. Let me know if you have any questions or problems getting this task completed. The following is general information for you to review to prepare for the Environment Rating Scale Assessment. ITERS-R and ECERS-R A variety of different types of blocks such as wooden unit blocks, soft unit blocks, cardboard blocks, and homemade blocks with enough blocks in each set for at least three children to build a structure should be provided. The block center should be large enough for three children to build a substantial structure without interfering with one each other’s play. Art projects should allow individual expression by children. Copied, cookie cutter type art projects do not offer children an opportunity for individual expression. Allow children to choose the art media of their choice and provide a variety of materials. The following are suggestions for art materials: markers, chalk, colored pencils, paper, crayons, dry erase markers, finger paint, tape, glue, stickers, small pieces of paper, play dough, clay, hole punchers, stencils, stamps, and scissors. Children under three years age should not have access to materials that would be considered choking hazards such as foam items, small crayons, small pieces of chalk, plastic bags, items easily torn apart or that would fit in a choking tube. You can use these materials under direct teacher supervision working one on one with the child during the art activity. Display in the classroom should be primarily children’s work and not teacher or store-bought display. Children’s art should be posted on their eye level. Avoid long periods of waiting during transitions such as bathroom time or from one activity to another. Develop ideas and strategies to reduce waiting time for children. Teachers can sing songs and do finger plays with the children who are waiting. If children wait more than three minutes without activity, then you will be marked down on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment score. Items such as puzzles and games that are missing pieces should be removed from the classroom and replaced. The classroom should have at least two books per child that are age appropriate for the children in the group. I suggested that books that portray violence be removed. A variety of books that portray real animal pictures, families, disabilities, and different cultures should be added to each classroom. Remove any books that are worn, torn or missing pages. I suggested that you have or purchase hats; boys dress shirts, ties, jerseys and dress coats from a consignment shop, yard sale or dollar store to enhance the dramatic play center. Other items that enhance dramatic play are telephone books, cooking aprons, restaurant menus, calculators, cash registers, cookbooks, and baby doll accessories. Add pictures, books, puzzles, block play people, baby dolls, music, play food and dress-up clothes that represent different cultures. Add pictures, puzzles and block play people that represent people of all ages and disabilities. Review your daily schedule and free play allotted times. Free play times need to be listed separate from all other activities such as hand washing, preparing to go home etc. All centers/materials should be accessible to children during free play. Water must be available to children throughout the day. Always have a pitcher of water and cups for children available. Tables must be cleaned with soapy water then wiped dry. Then spray table with the sanitizing solution and let it sit for at least two minutes before wiping dry. Follow this procedure before and after eating. Make sure no children are near the table when spraying the sanitizing solution. The sinks must be disinfected between changes of use. The staff should spray the sink with the disinfectant spray and allow the disinfectant to stay for at least two minutes before turning on the water and using the sink. All children must have their diapers or pull-ups checked or changed at least every two hours and when soiled. Use a timer or follow a daily individual diaper changing schedule to keep you within the two-hour timeframe. Children must wash their hands upon arrival, before and after eating, before and after sand and water play, after toileting, after outdoor play, after handling messy art materials such as paint, glue, and playdough and after touching nose, mouth, floor, trashcan, and anything else that re-contaminates the hands. Staff should follow proper handwashing procedures and wash their hands as required. Remove mouthed items from play immediately and sanitize before allowing other children to play with item. You must interact with children in relation to their play with materials. At least two instances must be observed. Math/number - One instance must be observed during routine care as well as during free play of using math/number. SACERS-U Avoid long periods of waiting during transitions such as bathroom time or from one activity to another. Develop ideas and strategies to reduce waiting time for children. Teachers can sing songs and do finger plays with the children who are waiting. If children wait more than three minutes without activity, then you will be marked down on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment score. Display children’s artwork in the classrooms. Include 2-D and 3-D art and craft projects to complete on the activity plan and display. Staff members should sit with children during meals and when possible, during snacks. Handwashing is required when: After children use the toilet or after assisting individual children with toileting routines. Immediately before meal or snack preparation and eating as well as after eating. (Remember to avoid recontamination of hands that can occur when unclean surfaces such as floors or toys are touched before eating.) Upon arrival and after outdoor play After messy activities (e.g., sand play, play dough). Before/after group water play After dealing with bodily fluids (e.g., wiping noses, coughing into hands, bandaging a scraped knee), even if gloves are used. Child sized tables and chairs must be correctly sized for at least 75% of children to receive credit. Gross motor equipment must be sturdy, age appropriate and stimulate many skills such as climbing, balancing, hanging by arms, sliding, riding tricycles and bicycles. You must have a variety of portable materials in good repair accessible to play individual and group gross motor games that stimulate many skills. Active play must occur indoors when they cannot not go outdoors due to precipitating weather. Make sure to always follow the weather watch chart to determine if weather is permitting for outdoor activities. Dramatic Play - Staff must extend dramatic play by offering suggestions, finding appropriate space, and assisting development of dramatic play roles. Language and reading activities - Children should be encouraged to use reading/writing in practical situations such as reading instructions for games, write letters to friends, and retrieve information online. Math and reasoning - Staff must encourage children to practice math/reasoning skills in daily activities such as recording scores for games, younger children set table with correct number of plates/napkins, measure and cut craft material accurately. Science and nature activities - Some science/nature books must be used to extend children’s information. Such as a book open on table near collection of pinecones and acorns, book about insect specimens and staff use the books to answer children’s questions about materials. Greetings and departure - Staff must acknowledge and personally greet children during arrival and departure. Staff and child communication - Staff and children’s conversations must be frequent. Language should be generally used by staff to exchange information with children and for social interaction. Most of the language observed during the assessment should be personal conversation and talking about topics of mutual interest rather than all directive language. Children should be asked why, how, what if questions that require longer and more complex answers. Children must be free to decide not to participate in any activity they choose. For example, if the teacher does a group time activity, the teacher cannot require all children to participate. Children should be given alternate activities. Tables must be cleaned with soapy water then wiped dry. Then spray with sanitizing solution and let sit for at least two minutes before wiping dry. Follow this procedure before and after eating. Make sure no children are near the table when spraying sanitizing solution. The sinks must be disinfected between changes of use. The staff should spray the sink with the disinfectant spray and allow the disinfectant to stay for at least two minutes before turning on the water and using the sink. Schedule - At least one fine motor/language activity must be scheduled daily. Staff need to read with children each day. This would be a free choice activity for children to choose to listen to the book. Since you want to have the Environment Rating Scale completed, I recommended that you visit www.ncrlap.org for supplemental materials for preparing for the Environment Rating Scale Assessments. Additional notes to the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale Revised Edition can be obtained on this website. NCRLAP also offers Webinar training for staff. I also recommended that you register staff now for the upcoming Webinar training listed on the ncrlap.org website. Contact your local Child Care Resource and Referral office for further technical assistance with the Environment Rating Scales. Reminders: Any observed violations cited during visits will negatively affect the center's Compliance History Score. Your program must maintain a compliance score of at least 75% as required by G.S. 110-90 (4)(c). Your temporary license will end after January 10, 2024. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by October 17, 2023. Please include in that letter each violation number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov: Jennifer Roberts PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your corrective action plan letter, that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0901 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/15/2023 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 8/15/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 308 Time In: 11:42 AM Time Out: 04:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit has been to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the first temporary time period visit. You, Quinterra Yates, administrator, assisted me with the visit. Dinah Brown, accompanied me on the visit. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC, is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on July 10, 2023, with the following restrictions: Daytime care only and max capacity 40 children based on septic tank restriction. During this first Temporary Time Period visit, the classrooms were monitored as well as the playgrounds, materials, equipment and required posted items for meeting all minimum licensing requirements. The last monthly fire drill was completed on August 9, 2023, at 10:24 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on August 7, 2023. A sample of three children’s files were reviewed. Six staff files were reviewed. A menu was posted but not dated for morning snack, lunch and afternoon snack and all food listed met the nutrition requirements. The daily schedule was posted. You said that you are going to apply for the rated license and request to have the Environment Rating Scale Assessment completed. As we discussed, the Environment Rating Scale Assessment could possibly help you in achieving at least a three-star child care license. We discussed and I gave you a copy of the Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License and the Rated License Assessment Request form today to complete and return to me. To allow time for the assessment to be requested, completed, score received and reviewed, and the rated license packet to be completed, I must receive your request to have the Environment Rating Scale assessment completed no later than October 16, 2023. We reviewed and discussed Program Standard points, Staff Education points and Quality point options. Another review of these points will be conducted at your next Temporary Time Period Visit. I discussed with you that programs with less than a three-star license will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding. All staff must establish a DCDEE WORKS account and have their education evaluations completed by Workforce by November 10, 2023. Documentation from Workforce on the results of the education evaluation must be on file for review for each staff member. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plans for each group of children enrolled in each space were not dated. Children were enrolled in space #'s 1, 3, and 4ab during the visit. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. The menus posted in each of the facility were not dated. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. The date was not listed on one (1) infants written feeding plan. .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The refrigerator in the kitchen had a thermometer that read 49 degrees F. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 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. One (1) aerosol can of Pam Cooking Spray was stored on the countertop next to the sink in the kitchen. The storage closet containing hazardous items was not locked and the key was in the lock. .2820(b) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. One (1) substitute caregiver with a hire date of August 9, 2023, did not have an application for employment on file for review. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a medical report on file dated February 9, 2022. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a TB test on file dated December 10, 2021, .0701(a) Technical assistance was provided on the following: Item #428 Activity plans for each group of children must be current and available for parents to view. You corrected this violation by adding the date to the activity plans posted in each space used by children. Item #525 .0901 (b) When food is prepared by or provided by the center, menus for nutritious meals and snacks shall be planned at least one week in advance. At least one dated copy of the current week's menu shall be posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff when food is prepared or provided by the center. A variety of food shall be included in meals and snacks. Any substitution shall be of comparable food value and shall be recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. To correct this violation, you added the date on the menus that were posted. Item #601 The refrigerator must maintain a temperature of less than 45 degree F. We discussed the storm and power outages. I suggested you contact a repair person for guidance on the refrigerator. Item #840 .2820(b) Hazardous items under pressure such as Pam Cooking Spray require locked storage. The closet in the kitchen containing hazardous items must remain locked. This included closing the lock on the door and removing the key. You corrected the violation by placing the Pam Cooking Spray in the closet and closing the lock and removing the key from the lock. Item #541 When parents complete the written feeding plan and return it to the facility, the date the facility received the written feeding plan must be listed. Please review forms as parents complete them and prior to the child enrolling. Item #1030 Applications for staff must be on file for review as staff are hired. One (1) substitute caregiver did not have an application for employment on file for review. I suggested that you have employees complete the application and create a file at the time of the interview so that forms are not mistakenly removed from the facility. You corrected this violation by having the substitute caregiver complete the application during the visit. Item #1032 One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a medical report on file dated February 2, 2022. I reminded you that medical reports for staff may be no older than 12 months prior to date of hire. Item #1033 One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a TB test on file dated December 10, 2021. I reminded you that the TB test for staff may be no older than 12 months prior to date of hire. Consultation was provided on the following. • In the hallway, an automatic air freshener holder was hanging on the wall. I encouraged to remove it from the wall to ensure that an aerosol air freshener will not be placed inside. • Staff will need to create a DCDEE WORKS account and submit official transcripts so their education can be evaluated. Please assist staff with creating and submitting their education in the Workforce Unit in the Raleigh office. On the DCDEE website choose the Provider tab, DCDEE WORKS, and review the DCDEE WORKS Training Simulator Step-by-Step Instructions. Let me know if you have any questions or problems getting this task completed. The following is general information for you to review to prepare for the Environment Rating Scale Assessment. ITERS-R and ECERS-R A variety of different types of blocks such as wooden unit blocks, soft unit blocks, cardboard blocks, and homemade blocks with enough blocks in each set for at least three children to build a structure should be provided. The block center should be large enough for three children to build a substantial structure without interfering with one each other’s play. Art projects should allow individual expression by children. Copied, cookie cutter type art projects do not offer children an opportunity for individual expression. Allow children to choose the art media of their choice and provide a variety of materials. The following are suggestions for art materials: markers, chalk, colored pencils, paper, crayons, dry erase markers, finger paint, tape, glue, stickers, small pieces of paper, play dough, clay, hole punchers, stencils, stamps, and scissors. Children under three years age should not have access to materials that would be considered choking hazards such as foam items, small crayons, small pieces of chalk, plastic bags, items easily torn apart or that would fit in a choking tube. You can use these materials under direct teacher supervision working one on one with the child during the art activity. Display in the classroom should be primarily children’s work and not teacher or store-bought display. Children’s art should be posted on their eye level. Avoid long periods of waiting during transitions such as bathroom time or from one activity to another. Develop ideas and strategies to reduce waiting time for children. Teachers can sing songs and do finger plays with the children who are waiting. If children wait more than three minutes without activity, then you will be marked down on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment score. Items such as puzzles and games that are missing pieces should be removed from the classroom and replaced. The classroom should have at least two books per child that are age appropriate for the children in the group. I suggested that books that portray violence be removed. A variety of books that portray real animal pictures, families, disabilities, and different cultures should be added to each classroom. Remove any books that are worn, torn or missing pages. I suggested that you have or purchase hats; boys dress shirts, ties, jerseys and dress coats from a consignment shop, yard sale or dollar store to enhance the dramatic play center. Other items that enhance dramatic play are telephone books, cooking aprons, restaurant menus, calculators, cash registers, cookbooks, and baby doll accessories. Add pictures, books, puzzles, block play people, baby dolls, music, play food and dress-up clothes that represent different cultures. Add pictures, puzzles and block play people that represent people of all ages and disabilities. Review your daily schedule and free play allotted times. Free play times need to be listed separate from all other activities such as hand washing, preparing to go home etc. All centers/materials should be accessible to children during free play. Water must be available to children throughout the day. Always have a pitcher of water and cups for children available. Tables must be cleaned with soapy water then wiped dry. Then spray table with the sanitizing solution and let it sit for at least two minutes before wiping dry. Follow this procedure before and after eating. Make sure no children are near the table when spraying the sanitizing solution. Sinks must be disinfected between changes of use. The staff should spray the sink with the disinfectant spray and allow the disinfectant to stay for at least two minutes before turning on the water and using the sink. All children must have their diapers or pull ups checked or changed at least every two hours and when soiled. Use a timer or follow a daily individual diaper changing schedule to keep you within the two-hour timeframe. Children must wash their hands upon arrival, before and after eating, before and after sand and water play, after toileting, after outdoor play, after handling messy art materials such as paint, glue, and playdough and after touching nose, mouth, floor, trashcan, and anything else that re-contaminates the hands. Staff should follow proper handwashing procedures and wash hands as required. Remove mouthed items from play immediately and sanitize before allowing other children to play with item. You must interact with children in relation to their play with materials. At least two instances must be observed. Math/number - One instance must be observed during routine care as well as during free play of using math/number. SACERS-U Avoid long periods of waiting during transitions such as bathroom time or from one activity to another. Develop ideas and strategies to reduce waiting time for children. Teachers can sing songs and do finger plays with the children who are waiting. If children wait more than three minutes without activity, then you will be marked down on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment score. Display children’s artwork in the classrooms. Include 2-D and 3-D art and craft projects to complete on the activity plan and display. Staff members should sit with children during meals and when possible, during snacks. Handwashing is required when: After children use the toilet or after assisting individual children with toileting routines. Immediately before meal or snack preparation and eating as well as after eating. (Remember to avoid recontamination of hands that can occur when unclean surfaces such as floors or toys are touched before eating.) Upon arrival and after outdoor play After messy activities (e.g., sand play, play dough). Before/after group water play After dealing with bodily fluids (e.g., wiping noses, coughing into hands, bandaging a scraped knee), even if gloves are used. Child sized tables and chairs must be correctly sized for at least 75% of children to receive credit. Gross motor equipment must be sturdy, age appropriate and stimulate many skills such as climbing, balancing, hanging by arms, sliding, riding tricycles and bicycles. You must have a variety of portable materials in good repair accessible to play individual and group gross motor games that stimulate many skills. Active play must occur indoors when they cannot not go outdoors due to precipitating weather. Make sure to always follow the weather watch chart to determine if weather is permitting for outdoor activities. Dramatic Play - Staff must extend dramatic play by offering suggestions, finding appropriate space, and assisting development of dramatic play roles. Language and reading activities - Children should be encouraged to use reading/writing in practical situations such as reading instructions for games, write letters to friends, and retrieve information online. Math and reasoning - Staff must encourage children to practice math/reasoning skills in daily activities such as recording scores for games, younger children set table with correct number of plates/napkins, measure and cut craft material accurately. Science and nature activities - Some science/nature books must be used to extend children’s information. Such as a book open on table near collection of pinecones and acorns, book about insect specimens and staff use the books to answer children’s questions about materials. Greeting and departing - Staff must acknowledge and personally greet children during arrival and departure. Staff and child communication - Staff and children’s conversations must be frequent. Language should be generally used by staff to exchange information with children and for social interaction. Most of the language observed during the assessment should be personal conversation and talking about topics of mutual interest rather than all directive language. Children should be asked why, how, what if questions that require longer and more complex answers. Children must be free to decide not to participate in any activity they choose. For example, if the teacher does a group time activity, the teacher cannot require all children to participate. Children should be given alternate activities. Tables must be cleaned with soapy water then wiped dry. Then spray with sanitizing solution and let sit for at least two minutes before wiping dry. Follow this procedure before and after eating. Make sure no children are near the table when spraying sanitizing solution. Sinks must be disinfected between changes of use. The staff should spray the sink with the disinfectant spray and allow the disinfectant to stay for at least two minutes before turning on the water and using the sink. Schedule - At least one fine motor/language activity must be scheduled daily. Staff need to read with children each day. This would be a free choice activity for children to choose to listen to the book. Since you want to have the Environment Rating Scale completed, I recommended that you visit www.ncrlap.org for supplemental materials for preparing for the Environment Rating Scale Assessments. Additional notes to the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale Revised Edition can be obtained on this website. NCRLAP also offers Webinar trainings for staff. I also recommended that you register staff now for the upcoming Webinar trainings listed on the ncrlap.org website. Contact your local Child Care Resource and Referral office for further technical assistance with the Environment Rating Scales. Reminders: Any observed violations cited during visits will negatively affect the center's Compliance History Score. Your program must maintain a compliance score of at least 75% as required by G.S. 110-90 (4)(c). Your temporary license will end after January 10, 2024. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by August 29, 2023. Please include in that letter each violation number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov: Jennifer Roberts PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your corrective action plan letter, that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/15/2023 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 8/15/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 308 Time In: 11:42 AM Time Out: 04:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit has been to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the first temporary time period visit. You, Quinterra Yates, administrator, assisted me with the visit. Dinah Brown, accompanied me on the visit. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC, is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on July 10, 2023, with the following restrictions: Daytime care only and max capacity 40 children based on septic tank restriction. During this first Temporary Time Period visit, the classrooms were monitored as well as the playgrounds, materials, equipment and required posted items for meeting all minimum licensing requirements. The last monthly fire drill was completed on August 9, 2023, at 10:24 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on August 7, 2023. A sample of three children’s files were reviewed. Six staff files were reviewed. A menu was posted but not dated for morning snack, lunch and afternoon snack and all food listed met the nutrition requirements. The daily schedule was posted. You said that you are going to apply for the rated license and request to have the Environment Rating Scale Assessment completed. As we discussed, the Environment Rating Scale Assessment could possibly help you in achieving at least a three-star child care license. We discussed and I gave you a copy of the Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License and the Rated License Assessment Request form today to complete and return to me. To allow time for the assessment to be requested, completed, score received and reviewed, and the rated license packet to be completed, I must receive your request to have the Environment Rating Scale assessment completed no later than October 16, 2023. We reviewed and discussed Program Standard points, Staff Education points and Quality point options. Another review of these points will be conducted at your next Temporary Time Period Visit. I discussed with you that programs with less than a three-star license will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding. All staff must establish a DCDEE WORKS account and have their education evaluations completed by Workforce by November 10, 2023. Documentation from Workforce on the results of the education evaluation must be on file for review for each staff member. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plans for each group of children enrolled in each space were not dated. Children were enrolled in space #'s 1, 3, and 4ab during the visit. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. The menus posted in each of the facility were not dated. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. The date was not listed on one (1) infants written feeding plan. .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The refrigerator in the kitchen had a thermometer that read 49 degrees F. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 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. One (1) aerosol can of Pam Cooking Spray was stored on the countertop next to the sink in the kitchen. The storage closet containing hazardous items was not locked and the key was in the lock. .2820(b) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. One (1) substitute caregiver with a hire date of August 9, 2023, did not have an application for employment on file for review. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a medical report on file dated February 9, 2022. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a TB test on file dated December 10, 2021, .0701(a) Technical assistance was provided on the following: Item #428 Activity plans for each group of children must be current and available for parents to view. You corrected this violation by adding the date to the activity plans posted in each space used by children. Item #525 .0901 (b) When food is prepared by or provided by the center, menus for nutritious meals and snacks shall be planned at least one week in advance. At least one dated copy of the current week's menu shall be posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff when food is prepared or provided by the center. A variety of food shall be included in meals and snacks. Any substitution shall be of comparable food value and shall be recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. To correct this violation, you added the date on the menus that were posted. Item #601 The refrigerator must maintain a temperature of less than 45 degree F. We discussed the storm and power outages. I suggested you contact a repair person for guidance on the refrigerator. Item #840 .2820(b) Hazardous items under pressure such as Pam Cooking Spray require locked storage. The closet in the kitchen containing hazardous items must remain locked. This included closing the lock on the door and removing the key. You corrected the violation by placing the Pam Cooking Spray in the closet and closing the lock and removing the key from the lock. Item #541 When parents complete the written feeding plan and return it to the facility, the date the facility received the written feeding plan must be listed. Please review forms as parents complete them and prior to the child enrolling. Item #1030 Applications for staff must be on file for review as staff are hired. One (1) substitute caregiver did not have an application for employment on file for review. I suggested that you have employees complete the application and create a file at the time of the interview so that forms are not mistakenly removed from the facility. You corrected this violation by having the substitute caregiver complete the application during the visit. Item #1032 One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a medical report on file dated February 2, 2022. I reminded you that medical reports for staff may be no older than 12 months prior to date of hire. Item #1033 One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a TB test on file dated December 10, 2021. I reminded you that the TB test for staff may be no older than 12 months prior to date of hire. Consultation was provided on the following. • In the hallway, an automatic air freshener holder was hanging on the wall. I encouraged to remove it from the wall to ensure that an aerosol air freshener will not be placed inside. • Staff will need to create a DCDEE WORKS account and submit official transcripts so their education can be evaluated. Please assist staff with creating and submitting their education in the Workforce Unit in the Raleigh office. On the DCDEE website choose the Provider tab, DCDEE WORKS, and review the DCDEE WORKS Training Simulator Step-by-Step Instructions. Let me know if you have any questions or problems getting this task completed. The following is general information for you to review to prepare for the Environment Rating Scale Assessment. ITERS-R and ECERS-R A variety of different types of blocks such as wooden unit blocks, soft unit blocks, cardboard blocks, and homemade blocks with enough blocks in each set for at least three children to build a structure should be provided. The block center should be large enough for three children to build a substantial structure without interfering with one each other’s play. Art projects should allow individual expression by children. Copied, cookie cutter type art projects do not offer children an opportunity for individual expression. Allow children to choose the art media of their choice and provide a variety of materials. The following are suggestions for art materials: markers, chalk, colored pencils, paper, crayons, dry erase markers, finger paint, tape, glue, stickers, small pieces of paper, play dough, clay, hole punchers, stencils, stamps, and scissors. Children under three years age should not have access to materials that would be considered choking hazards such as foam items, small crayons, small pieces of chalk, plastic bags, items easily torn apart or that would fit in a choking tube. You can use these materials under direct teacher supervision working one on one with the child during the art activity. Display in the classroom should be primarily children’s work and not teacher or store-bought display. Children’s art should be posted on their eye level. Avoid long periods of waiting during transitions such as bathroom time or from one activity to another. Develop ideas and strategies to reduce waiting time for children. Teachers can sing songs and do finger plays with the children who are waiting. If children wait more than three minutes without activity, then you will be marked down on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment score. Items such as puzzles and games that are missing pieces should be removed from the classroom and replaced. The classroom should have at least two books per child that are age appropriate for the children in the group. I suggested that books that portray violence be removed. A variety of books that portray real animal pictures, families, disabilities, and different cultures should be added to each classroom. Remove any books that are worn, torn or missing pages. I suggested that you have or purchase hats; boys dress shirts, ties, jerseys and dress coats from a consignment shop, yard sale or dollar store to enhance the dramatic play center. Other items that enhance dramatic play are telephone books, cooking aprons, restaurant menus, calculators, cash registers, cookbooks, and baby doll accessories. Add pictures, books, puzzles, block play people, baby dolls, music, play food and dress-up clothes that represent different cultures. Add pictures, puzzles and block play people that represent people of all ages and disabilities. Review your daily schedule and free play allotted times. Free play times need to be listed separate from all other activities such as hand washing, preparing to go home etc. All centers/materials should be accessible to children during free play. Water must be available to children throughout the day. Always have a pitcher of water and cups for children available. Tables must be cleaned with soapy water then wiped dry. Then spray table with the sanitizing solution and let it sit for at least two minutes before wiping dry. Follow this procedure before and after eating. Make sure no children are near the table when spraying the sanitizing solution. Sinks must be disinfected between changes of use. The staff should spray the sink with the disinfectant spray and allow the disinfectant to stay for at least two minutes before turning on the water and using the sink. All children must have their diapers or pull ups checked or changed at least every two hours and when soiled. Use a timer or follow a daily individual diaper changing schedule to keep you within the two-hour timeframe. Children must wash their hands upon arrival, before and after eating, before and after sand and water play, after toileting, after outdoor play, after handling messy art materials such as paint, glue, and playdough and after touching nose, mouth, floor, trashcan, and anything else that re-contaminates the hands. Staff should follow proper handwashing procedures and wash hands as required. Remove mouthed items from play immediately and sanitize before allowing other children to play with item. You must interact with children in relation to their play with materials. At least two instances must be observed. Math/number - One instance must be observed during routine care as well as during free play of using math/number. SACERS-U Avoid long periods of waiting during transitions such as bathroom time or from one activity to another. Develop ideas and strategies to reduce waiting time for children. Teachers can sing songs and do finger plays with the children who are waiting. If children wait more than three minutes without activity, then you will be marked down on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment score. Display children’s artwork in the classrooms. Include 2-D and 3-D art and craft projects to complete on the activity plan and display. Staff members should sit with children during meals and when possible, during snacks. Handwashing is required when: After children use the toilet or after assisting individual children with toileting routines. Immediately before meal or snack preparation and eating as well as after eating. (Remember to avoid recontamination of hands that can occur when unclean surfaces such as floors or toys are touched before eating.) Upon arrival and after outdoor play After messy activities (e.g., sand play, play dough). Before/after group water play After dealing with bodily fluids (e.g., wiping noses, coughing into hands, bandaging a scraped knee), even if gloves are used. Child sized tables and chairs must be correctly sized for at least 75% of children to receive credit. Gross motor equipment must be sturdy, age appropriate and stimulate many skills such as climbing, balancing, hanging by arms, sliding, riding tricycles and bicycles. You must have a variety of portable materials in good repair accessible to play individual and group gross motor games that stimulate many skills. Active play must occur indoors when they cannot not go outdoors due to precipitating weather. Make sure to always follow the weather watch chart to determine if weather is permitting for outdoor activities. Dramatic Play - Staff must extend dramatic play by offering suggestions, finding appropriate space, and assisting development of dramatic play roles. Language and reading activities - Children should be encouraged to use reading/writing in practical situations such as reading instructions for games, write letters to friends, and retrieve information online. Math and reasoning - Staff must encourage children to practice math/reasoning skills in daily activities such as recording scores for games, younger children set table with correct number of plates/napkins, measure and cut craft material accurately. Science and nature activities - Some science/nature books must be used to extend children’s information. Such as a book open on table near collection of pinecones and acorns, book about insect specimens and staff use the books to answer children’s questions about materials. Greeting and departing - Staff must acknowledge and personally greet children during arrival and departure. Staff and child communication - Staff and children’s conversations must be frequent. Language should be generally used by staff to exchange information with children and for social interaction. Most of the language observed during the assessment should be personal conversation and talking about topics of mutual interest rather than all directive language. Children should be asked why, how, what if questions that require longer and more complex answers. Children must be free to decide not to participate in any activity they choose. For example, if the teacher does a group time activity, the teacher cannot require all children to participate. Children should be given alternate activities. Tables must be cleaned with soapy water then wiped dry. Then spray with sanitizing solution and let sit for at least two minutes before wiping dry. Follow this procedure before and after eating. Make sure no children are near the table when spraying sanitizing solution. Sinks must be disinfected between changes of use. The staff should spray the sink with the disinfectant spray and allow the disinfectant to stay for at least two minutes before turning on the water and using the sink. Schedule - At least one fine motor/language activity must be scheduled daily. Staff need to read with children each day. This would be a free choice activity for children to choose to listen to the book. Since you want to have the Environment Rating Scale completed, I recommended that you visit www.ncrlap.org for supplemental materials for preparing for the Environment Rating Scale Assessments. Additional notes to the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale Revised Edition can be obtained on this website. NCRLAP also offers Webinar trainings for staff. I also recommended that you register staff now for the upcoming Webinar trainings listed on the ncrlap.org website. Contact your local Child Care Resource and Referral office for further technical assistance with the Environment Rating Scales. Reminders: Any observed violations cited during visits will negatively affect the center's Compliance History Score. Your program must maintain a compliance score of at least 75% as required by G.S. 110-90 (4)(c). Your temporary license will end after January 10, 2024. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by August 29, 2023. Please include in that letter each violation number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov: Jennifer Roberts PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your corrective action plan letter, that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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 .2201 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/15/2023 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 8/15/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 308 Time In: 11:42 AM Time Out: 04:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit has been to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the first temporary time period visit. You, Quinterra Yates, administrator, assisted me with the visit. Dinah Brown, accompanied me on the visit. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC, is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on July 10, 2023, with the following restrictions: Daytime care only and max capacity 40 children based on septic tank restriction. During this first Temporary Time Period visit, the classrooms were monitored as well as the playgrounds, materials, equipment and required posted items for meeting all minimum licensing requirements. The last monthly fire drill was completed on August 9, 2023, at 10:24 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on August 7, 2023. A sample of three children’s files were reviewed. Six staff files were reviewed. A menu was posted but not dated for morning snack, lunch and afternoon snack and all food listed met the nutrition requirements. The daily schedule was posted. You said that you are going to apply for the rated license and request to have the Environment Rating Scale Assessment completed. As we discussed, the Environment Rating Scale Assessment could possibly help you in achieving at least a three-star child care license. We discussed and I gave you a copy of the Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License and the Rated License Assessment Request form today to complete and return to me. To allow time for the assessment to be requested, completed, score received and reviewed, and the rated license packet to be completed, I must receive your request to have the Environment Rating Scale assessment completed no later than October 16, 2023. We reviewed and discussed Program Standard points, Staff Education points and Quality point options. Another review of these points will be conducted at your next Temporary Time Period Visit. I discussed with you that programs with less than a three-star license will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding. All staff must establish a DCDEE WORKS account and have their education evaluations completed by Workforce by November 10, 2023. Documentation from Workforce on the results of the education evaluation must be on file for review for each staff member. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plans for each group of children enrolled in each space were not dated. Children were enrolled in space #'s 1, 3, and 4ab during the visit. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. The menus posted in each of the facility were not dated. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. The date was not listed on one (1) infants written feeding plan. .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The refrigerator in the kitchen had a thermometer that read 49 degrees F. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 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. One (1) aerosol can of Pam Cooking Spray was stored on the countertop next to the sink in the kitchen. The storage closet containing hazardous items was not locked and the key was in the lock. .2820(b) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. One (1) substitute caregiver with a hire date of August 9, 2023, did not have an application for employment on file for review. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a medical report on file dated February 9, 2022. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a TB test on file dated December 10, 2021, .0701(a) Technical assistance was provided on the following: Item #428 Activity plans for each group of children must be current and available for parents to view. You corrected this violation by adding the date to the activity plans posted in each space used by children. Item #525 .0901 (b) When food is prepared by or provided by the center, menus for nutritious meals and snacks shall be planned at least one week in advance. At least one dated copy of the current week's menu shall be posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff when food is prepared or provided by the center. A variety of food shall be included in meals and snacks. Any substitution shall be of comparable food value and shall be recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. To correct this violation, you added the date on the menus that were posted. Item #601 The refrigerator must maintain a temperature of less than 45 degree F. We discussed the storm and power outages. I suggested you contact a repair person for guidance on the refrigerator. Item #840 .2820(b) Hazardous items under pressure such as Pam Cooking Spray require locked storage. The closet in the kitchen containing hazardous items must remain locked. This included closing the lock on the door and removing the key. You corrected the violation by placing the Pam Cooking Spray in the closet and closing the lock and removing the key from the lock. Item #541 When parents complete the written feeding plan and return it to the facility, the date the facility received the written feeding plan must be listed. Please review forms as parents complete them and prior to the child enrolling. Item #1030 Applications for staff must be on file for review as staff are hired. One (1) substitute caregiver did not have an application for employment on file for review. I suggested that you have employees complete the application and create a file at the time of the interview so that forms are not mistakenly removed from the facility. You corrected this violation by having the substitute caregiver complete the application during the visit. Item #1032 One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a medical report on file dated February 2, 2022. I reminded you that medical reports for staff may be no older than 12 months prior to date of hire. Item #1033 One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a TB test on file dated December 10, 2021. I reminded you that the TB test for staff may be no older than 12 months prior to date of hire. Consultation was provided on the following. • In the hallway, an automatic air freshener holder was hanging on the wall. I encouraged to remove it from the wall to ensure that an aerosol air freshener will not be placed inside. • Staff will need to create a DCDEE WORKS account and submit official transcripts so their education can be evaluated. Please assist staff with creating and submitting their education in the Workforce Unit in the Raleigh office. On the DCDEE website choose the Provider tab, DCDEE WORKS, and review the DCDEE WORKS Training Simulator Step-by-Step Instructions. Let me know if you have any questions or problems getting this task completed. The following is general information for you to review to prepare for the Environment Rating Scale Assessment. ITERS-R and ECERS-R A variety of different types of blocks such as wooden unit blocks, soft unit blocks, cardboard blocks, and homemade blocks with enough blocks in each set for at least three children to build a structure should be provided. The block center should be large enough for three children to build a substantial structure without interfering with one each other’s play. Art projects should allow individual expression by children. Copied, cookie cutter type art projects do not offer children an opportunity for individual expression. Allow children to choose the art media of their choice and provide a variety of materials. The following are suggestions for art materials: markers, chalk, colored pencils, paper, crayons, dry erase markers, finger paint, tape, glue, stickers, small pieces of paper, play dough, clay, hole punchers, stencils, stamps, and scissors. Children under three years age should not have access to materials that would be considered choking hazards such as foam items, small crayons, small pieces of chalk, plastic bags, items easily torn apart or that would fit in a choking tube. You can use these materials under direct teacher supervision working one on one with the child during the art activity. Display in the classroom should be primarily children’s work and not teacher or store-bought display. Children’s art should be posted on their eye level. Avoid long periods of waiting during transitions such as bathroom time or from one activity to another. Develop ideas and strategies to reduce waiting time for children. Teachers can sing songs and do finger plays with the children who are waiting. If children wait more than three minutes without activity, then you will be marked down on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment score. Items such as puzzles and games that are missing pieces should be removed from the classroom and replaced. The classroom should have at least two books per child that are age appropriate for the children in the group. I suggested that books that portray violence be removed. A variety of books that portray real animal pictures, families, disabilities, and different cultures should be added to each classroom. Remove any books that are worn, torn or missing pages. I suggested that you have or purchase hats; boys dress shirts, ties, jerseys and dress coats from a consignment shop, yard sale or dollar store to enhance the dramatic play center. Other items that enhance dramatic play are telephone books, cooking aprons, restaurant menus, calculators, cash registers, cookbooks, and baby doll accessories. Add pictures, books, puzzles, block play people, baby dolls, music, play food and dress-up clothes that represent different cultures. Add pictures, puzzles and block play people that represent people of all ages and disabilities. Review your daily schedule and free play allotted times. Free play times need to be listed separate from all other activities such as hand washing, preparing to go home etc. All centers/materials should be accessible to children during free play. Water must be available to children throughout the day. Always have a pitcher of water and cups for children available. Tables must be cleaned with soapy water then wiped dry. Then spray table with the sanitizing solution and let it sit for at least two minutes before wiping dry. Follow this procedure before and after eating. Make sure no children are near the table when spraying the sanitizing solution. Sinks must be disinfected between changes of use. The staff should spray the sink with the disinfectant spray and allow the disinfectant to stay for at least two minutes before turning on the water and using the sink. All children must have their diapers or pull ups checked or changed at least every two hours and when soiled. Use a timer or follow a daily individual diaper changing schedule to keep you within the two-hour timeframe. Children must wash their hands upon arrival, before and after eating, before and after sand and water play, after toileting, after outdoor play, after handling messy art materials such as paint, glue, and playdough and after touching nose, mouth, floor, trashcan, and anything else that re-contaminates the hands. Staff should follow proper handwashing procedures and wash hands as required. Remove mouthed items from play immediately and sanitize before allowing other children to play with item. You must interact with children in relation to their play with materials. At least two instances must be observed. Math/number - One instance must be observed during routine care as well as during free play of using math/number. SACERS-U Avoid long periods of waiting during transitions such as bathroom time or from one activity to another. Develop ideas and strategies to reduce waiting time for children. Teachers can sing songs and do finger plays with the children who are waiting. If children wait more than three minutes without activity, then you will be marked down on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment score. Display children’s artwork in the classrooms. Include 2-D and 3-D art and craft projects to complete on the activity plan and display. Staff members should sit with children during meals and when possible, during snacks. Handwashing is required when: After children use the toilet or after assisting individual children with toileting routines. Immediately before meal or snack preparation and eating as well as after eating. (Remember to avoid recontamination of hands that can occur when unclean surfaces such as floors or toys are touched before eating.) Upon arrival and after outdoor play After messy activities (e.g., sand play, play dough). Before/after group water play After dealing with bodily fluids (e.g., wiping noses, coughing into hands, bandaging a scraped knee), even if gloves are used. Child sized tables and chairs must be correctly sized for at least 75% of children to receive credit. Gross motor equipment must be sturdy, age appropriate and stimulate many skills such as climbing, balancing, hanging by arms, sliding, riding tricycles and bicycles. You must have a variety of portable materials in good repair accessible to play individual and group gross motor games that stimulate many skills. Active play must occur indoors when they cannot not go outdoors due to precipitating weather. Make sure to always follow the weather watch chart to determine if weather is permitting for outdoor activities. Dramatic Play - Staff must extend dramatic play by offering suggestions, finding appropriate space, and assisting development of dramatic play roles. Language and reading activities - Children should be encouraged to use reading/writing in practical situations such as reading instructions for games, write letters to friends, and retrieve information online. Math and reasoning - Staff must encourage children to practice math/reasoning skills in daily activities such as recording scores for games, younger children set table with correct number of plates/napkins, measure and cut craft material accurately. Science and nature activities - Some science/nature books must be used to extend children’s information. Such as a book open on table near collection of pinecones and acorns, book about insect specimens and staff use the books to answer children’s questions about materials. Greeting and departing - Staff must acknowledge and personally greet children during arrival and departure. Staff and child communication - Staff and children’s conversations must be frequent. Language should be generally used by staff to exchange information with children and for social interaction. Most of the language observed during the assessment should be personal conversation and talking about topics of mutual interest rather than all directive language. Children should be asked why, how, what if questions that require longer and more complex answers. Children must be free to decide not to participate in any activity they choose. For example, if the teacher does a group time activity, the teacher cannot require all children to participate. Children should be given alternate activities. Tables must be cleaned with soapy water then wiped dry. Then spray with sanitizing solution and let sit for at least two minutes before wiping dry. Follow this procedure before and after eating. Make sure no children are near the table when spraying sanitizing solution. Sinks must be disinfected between changes of use. The staff should spray the sink with the disinfectant spray and allow the disinfectant to stay for at least two minutes before turning on the water and using the sink. Schedule - At least one fine motor/language activity must be scheduled daily. Staff need to read with children each day. This would be a free choice activity for children to choose to listen to the book. Since you want to have the Environment Rating Scale completed, I recommended that you visit www.ncrlap.org for supplemental materials for preparing for the Environment Rating Scale Assessments. Additional notes to the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale Revised Edition can be obtained on this website. NCRLAP also offers Webinar trainings for staff. I also recommended that you register staff now for the upcoming Webinar trainings listed on the ncrlap.org website. Contact your local Child Care Resource and Referral office for further technical assistance with the Environment Rating Scales. Reminders: Any observed violations cited during visits will negatively affect the center's Compliance History Score. Your program must maintain a compliance score of at least 75% as required by G.S. 110-90 (4)(c). Your temporary license will end after January 10, 2024. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by August 29, 2023. Please include in that letter each violation number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov: Jennifer Roberts PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your corrective action plan letter, that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/15/2023 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 8/15/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 308 Time In: 11:42 AM Time Out: 04:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit has been to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the first temporary time period visit. You, Quinterra Yates, administrator, assisted me with the visit. Dinah Brown, accompanied me on the visit. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC, is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on July 10, 2023, with the following restrictions: Daytime care only and max capacity 40 children based on septic tank restriction. During this first Temporary Time Period visit, the classrooms were monitored as well as the playgrounds, materials, equipment and required posted items for meeting all minimum licensing requirements. The last monthly fire drill was completed on August 9, 2023, at 10:24 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on August 7, 2023. A sample of three children’s files were reviewed. Six staff files were reviewed. A menu was posted but not dated for morning snack, lunch and afternoon snack and all food listed met the nutrition requirements. The daily schedule was posted. You said that you are going to apply for the rated license and request to have the Environment Rating Scale Assessment completed. As we discussed, the Environment Rating Scale Assessment could possibly help you in achieving at least a three-star child care license. We discussed and I gave you a copy of the Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License and the Rated License Assessment Request form today to complete and return to me. To allow time for the assessment to be requested, completed, score received and reviewed, and the rated license packet to be completed, I must receive your request to have the Environment Rating Scale assessment completed no later than October 16, 2023. We reviewed and discussed Program Standard points, Staff Education points and Quality point options. Another review of these points will be conducted at your next Temporary Time Period Visit. I discussed with you that programs with less than a three-star license will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding. All staff must establish a DCDEE WORKS account and have their education evaluations completed by Workforce by November 10, 2023. Documentation from Workforce on the results of the education evaluation must be on file for review for each staff member. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plans for each group of children enrolled in each space were not dated. Children were enrolled in space #'s 1, 3, and 4ab during the visit. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. The menus posted in each of the facility were not dated. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. The date was not listed on one (1) infants written feeding plan. .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The refrigerator in the kitchen had a thermometer that read 49 degrees F. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 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. One (1) aerosol can of Pam Cooking Spray was stored on the countertop next to the sink in the kitchen. The storage closet containing hazardous items was not locked and the key was in the lock. .2820(b) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. One (1) substitute caregiver with a hire date of August 9, 2023, did not have an application for employment on file for review. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a medical report on file dated February 9, 2022. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a TB test on file dated December 10, 2021, .0701(a) Technical assistance was provided on the following: Item #428 Activity plans for each group of children must be current and available for parents to view. You corrected this violation by adding the date to the activity plans posted in each space used by children. Item #525 .0901 (b) When food is prepared by or provided by the center, menus for nutritious meals and snacks shall be planned at least one week in advance. At least one dated copy of the current week's menu shall be posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff when food is prepared or provided by the center. A variety of food shall be included in meals and snacks. Any substitution shall be of comparable food value and shall be recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. To correct this violation, you added the date on the menus that were posted. Item #601 The refrigerator must maintain a temperature of less than 45 degree F. We discussed the storm and power outages. I suggested you contact a repair person for guidance on the refrigerator. Item #840 .2820(b) Hazardous items under pressure such as Pam Cooking Spray require locked storage. The closet in the kitchen containing hazardous items must remain locked. This included closing the lock on the door and removing the key. You corrected the violation by placing the Pam Cooking Spray in the closet and closing the lock and removing the key from the lock. Item #541 When parents complete the written feeding plan and return it to the facility, the date the facility received the written feeding plan must be listed. Please review forms as parents complete them and prior to the child enrolling. Item #1030 Applications for staff must be on file for review as staff are hired. One (1) substitute caregiver did not have an application for employment on file for review. I suggested that you have employees complete the application and create a file at the time of the interview so that forms are not mistakenly removed from the facility. You corrected this violation by having the substitute caregiver complete the application during the visit. Item #1032 One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a medical report on file dated February 2, 2022. I reminded you that medical reports for staff may be no older than 12 months prior to date of hire. Item #1033 One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a TB test on file dated December 10, 2021. I reminded you that the TB test for staff may be no older than 12 months prior to date of hire. Consultation was provided on the following. • In the hallway, an automatic air freshener holder was hanging on the wall. I encouraged to remove it from the wall to ensure that an aerosol air freshener will not be placed inside. • Staff will need to create a DCDEE WORKS account and submit official transcripts so their education can be evaluated. Please assist staff with creating and submitting their education in the Workforce Unit in the Raleigh office. On the DCDEE website choose the Provider tab, DCDEE WORKS, and review the DCDEE WORKS Training Simulator Step-by-Step Instructions. Let me know if you have any questions or problems getting this task completed. The following is general information for you to review to prepare for the Environment Rating Scale Assessment. ITERS-R and ECERS-R A variety of different types of blocks such as wooden unit blocks, soft unit blocks, cardboard blocks, and homemade blocks with enough blocks in each set for at least three children to build a structure should be provided. The block center should be large enough for three children to build a substantial structure without interfering with one each other’s play. Art projects should allow individual expression by children. Copied, cookie cutter type art projects do not offer children an opportunity for individual expression. Allow children to choose the art media of their choice and provide a variety of materials. The following are suggestions for art materials: markers, chalk, colored pencils, paper, crayons, dry erase markers, finger paint, tape, glue, stickers, small pieces of paper, play dough, clay, hole punchers, stencils, stamps, and scissors. Children under three years age should not have access to materials that would be considered choking hazards such as foam items, small crayons, small pieces of chalk, plastic bags, items easily torn apart or that would fit in a choking tube. You can use these materials under direct teacher supervision working one on one with the child during the art activity. Display in the classroom should be primarily children’s work and not teacher or store-bought display. Children’s art should be posted on their eye level. Avoid long periods of waiting during transitions such as bathroom time or from one activity to another. Develop ideas and strategies to reduce waiting time for children. Teachers can sing songs and do finger plays with the children who are waiting. If children wait more than three minutes without activity, then you will be marked down on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment score. Items such as puzzles and games that are missing pieces should be removed from the classroom and replaced. The classroom should have at least two books per child that are age appropriate for the children in the group. I suggested that books that portray violence be removed. A variety of books that portray real animal pictures, families, disabilities, and different cultures should be added to each classroom. Remove any books that are worn, torn or missing pages. I suggested that you have or purchase hats; boys dress shirts, ties, jerseys and dress coats from a consignment shop, yard sale or dollar store to enhance the dramatic play center. Other items that enhance dramatic play are telephone books, cooking aprons, restaurant menus, calculators, cash registers, cookbooks, and baby doll accessories. Add pictures, books, puzzles, block play people, baby dolls, music, play food and dress-up clothes that represent different cultures. Add pictures, puzzles and block play people that represent people of all ages and disabilities. Review your daily schedule and free play allotted times. Free play times need to be listed separate from all other activities such as hand washing, preparing to go home etc. All centers/materials should be accessible to children during free play. Water must be available to children throughout the day. Always have a pitcher of water and cups for children available. Tables must be cleaned with soapy water then wiped dry. Then spray table with the sanitizing solution and let it sit for at least two minutes before wiping dry. Follow this procedure before and after eating. Make sure no children are near the table when spraying the sanitizing solution. Sinks must be disinfected between changes of use. The staff should spray the sink with the disinfectant spray and allow the disinfectant to stay for at least two minutes before turning on the water and using the sink. All children must have their diapers or pull ups checked or changed at least every two hours and when soiled. Use a timer or follow a daily individual diaper changing schedule to keep you within the two-hour timeframe. Children must wash their hands upon arrival, before and after eating, before and after sand and water play, after toileting, after outdoor play, after handling messy art materials such as paint, glue, and playdough and after touching nose, mouth, floor, trashcan, and anything else that re-contaminates the hands. Staff should follow proper handwashing procedures and wash hands as required. Remove mouthed items from play immediately and sanitize before allowing other children to play with item. You must interact with children in relation to their play with materials. At least two instances must be observed. Math/number - One instance must be observed during routine care as well as during free play of using math/number. SACERS-U Avoid long periods of waiting during transitions such as bathroom time or from one activity to another. Develop ideas and strategies to reduce waiting time for children. Teachers can sing songs and do finger plays with the children who are waiting. If children wait more than three minutes without activity, then you will be marked down on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment score. Display children’s artwork in the classrooms. Include 2-D and 3-D art and craft projects to complete on the activity plan and display. Staff members should sit with children during meals and when possible, during snacks. Handwashing is required when: After children use the toilet or after assisting individual children with toileting routines. Immediately before meal or snack preparation and eating as well as after eating. (Remember to avoid recontamination of hands that can occur when unclean surfaces such as floors or toys are touched before eating.) Upon arrival and after outdoor play After messy activities (e.g., sand play, play dough). Before/after group water play After dealing with bodily fluids (e.g., wiping noses, coughing into hands, bandaging a scraped knee), even if gloves are used. Child sized tables and chairs must be correctly sized for at least 75% of children to receive credit. Gross motor equipment must be sturdy, age appropriate and stimulate many skills such as climbing, balancing, hanging by arms, sliding, riding tricycles and bicycles. You must have a variety of portable materials in good repair accessible to play individual and group gross motor games that stimulate many skills. Active play must occur indoors when they cannot not go outdoors due to precipitating weather. Make sure to always follow the weather watch chart to determine if weather is permitting for outdoor activities. Dramatic Play - Staff must extend dramatic play by offering suggestions, finding appropriate space, and assisting development of dramatic play roles. Language and reading activities - Children should be encouraged to use reading/writing in practical situations such as reading instructions for games, write letters to friends, and retrieve information online. Math and reasoning - Staff must encourage children to practice math/reasoning skills in daily activities such as recording scores for games, younger children set table with correct number of plates/napkins, measure and cut craft material accurately. Science and nature activities - Some science/nature books must be used to extend children’s information. Such as a book open on table near collection of pinecones and acorns, book about insect specimens and staff use the books to answer children’s questions about materials. Greeting and departing - Staff must acknowledge and personally greet children during arrival and departure. Staff and child communication - Staff and children’s conversations must be frequent. Language should be generally used by staff to exchange information with children and for social interaction. Most of the language observed during the assessment should be personal conversation and talking about topics of mutual interest rather than all directive language. Children should be asked why, how, what if questions that require longer and more complex answers. Children must be free to decide not to participate in any activity they choose. For example, if the teacher does a group time activity, the teacher cannot require all children to participate. Children should be given alternate activities. Tables must be cleaned with soapy water then wiped dry. Then spray with sanitizing solution and let sit for at least two minutes before wiping dry. Follow this procedure before and after eating. Make sure no children are near the table when spraying sanitizing solution. Sinks must be disinfected between changes of use. The staff should spray the sink with the disinfectant spray and allow the disinfectant to stay for at least two minutes before turning on the water and using the sink. Schedule - At least one fine motor/language activity must be scheduled daily. Staff need to read with children each day. This would be a free choice activity for children to choose to listen to the book. Since you want to have the Environment Rating Scale completed, I recommended that you visit www.ncrlap.org for supplemental materials for preparing for the Environment Rating Scale Assessments. Additional notes to the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale Revised Edition can be obtained on this website. NCRLAP also offers Webinar trainings for staff. I also recommended that you register staff now for the upcoming Webinar trainings listed on the ncrlap.org website. Contact your local Child Care Resource and Referral office for further technical assistance with the Environment Rating Scales. Reminders: Any observed violations cited during visits will negatively affect the center's Compliance History Score. Your program must maintain a compliance score of at least 75% as required by G.S. 110-90 (4)(c). Your temporary license will end after January 10, 2024. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by August 29, 2023. Please include in that letter each violation number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov: Jennifer Roberts PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your corrective action plan letter, that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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: FIRST STEPS CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT CENTER, LLC Facility ID: 23000504 Consultant: JENNIFER H ROBERTS Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/15/2023 Number Present: 11 Completed Date: 8/15/2023 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 308 Time In: 11:42 AM Time Out: 04:50 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's unannounced visit has been to monitor your compliance with all applicable child care requirements during the first temporary time period visit. You, Quinterra Yates, administrator, assisted me with the visit. Dinah Brown, accompanied me on the visit. The Secretary of State website was checked today, and your business First Steps Childcare Development Center LLC, is still active and in good standing. If any changes to the corporation need to be made or you decide to sell your business, then you must notify your consultant at least thirty days prior to any changes occurring. The license cannot be bought, sold, subleased, transferred to another person or location, or inherited. Currently this center operates with a temporary license issued on July 10, 2023, with the following restrictions: Daytime care only and max capacity 40 children based on septic tank restriction. During this first Temporary Time Period visit, the classrooms were monitored as well as the playgrounds, materials, equipment and required posted items for meeting all minimum licensing requirements. The last monthly fire drill was completed on August 9, 2023, at 10:24 am. The last monthly playground inspection was completed on August 7, 2023. A sample of three children’s files were reviewed. Six staff files were reviewed. A menu was posted but not dated for morning snack, lunch and afternoon snack and all food listed met the nutrition requirements. The daily schedule was posted. You said that you are going to apply for the rated license and request to have the Environment Rating Scale Assessment completed. As we discussed, the Environment Rating Scale Assessment could possibly help you in achieving at least a three-star child care license. We discussed and I gave you a copy of the Application for Assessment for a Two Component Star Rated License and the Rated License Assessment Request form today to complete and return to me. To allow time for the assessment to be requested, completed, score received and reviewed, and the rated license packet to be completed, I must receive your request to have the Environment Rating Scale assessment completed no later than October 16, 2023. We reviewed and discussed Program Standard points, Staff Education points and Quality point options. Another review of these points will be conducted at your next Temporary Time Period Visit. I discussed with you that programs with less than a three-star license will not be eligible to receive subsidy funding. All staff must establish a DCDEE WORKS account and have their education evaluations completed by Workforce by November 10, 2023. Documentation from Workforce on the results of the education evaluation must be on file for review for each staff member. The following violations were observed today. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. The activity plans for each group of children enrolled in each space were not dated. Children were enrolled in space #'s 1, 3, and 4ab during the visit. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 525 Menus for all meals and snacks were not planned at least 1 week ahead and dated. The menus posted in each of the facility were not dated. 10A NCAC 09 .0901(b) 541 The written feeding plan did not include the child's name, parent signature, and/or was not dated when received by the center. The date was not listed on one (1) infants written feeding plan. .0902(a) 601 Refrigerator(s) did not maintain a temperature of 45 degrees F. or below. The refrigerator in the kitchen had a thermometer that read 49 degrees F. 15A NCAC 18A .2806(j)(2) 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. One (1) aerosol can of Pam Cooking Spray was stored on the countertop next to the sink in the kitchen. The storage closet containing hazardous items was not locked and the key was in the lock. .2820(b) 1030 Application for employment and date of birth was not on file for all staff. One (1) substitute caregiver with a hire date of August 9, 2023, did not have an application for employment on file for review. .0302(d)(1)(A) 1032 Child care providers and uncompensated providers who are not substitute providers or volunteers, including the director did not have a medical report on file prior to employment that was signed by a health care professional and/ or the medical report was older than 12 months. One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a medical report on file dated February 9, 2022. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1033 On or before the first day of work, all staff, including the director and individuals who volunteer more than once per week did not provide results indicating that they were free of active TB and/or TB test or screening was older than 12 months. One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a TB test on file dated December 10, 2021, .0701(a) Technical assistance was provided on the following: Item #428 Activity plans for each group of children must be current and available for parents to view. You corrected this violation by adding the date to the activity plans posted in each space used by children. Item #525 .0901 (b) When food is prepared by or provided by the center, menus for nutritious meals and snacks shall be planned at least one week in advance. At least one dated copy of the current week's menu shall be posted where it can be seen by parents and food preparation staff when food is prepared or provided by the center. A variety of food shall be included in meals and snacks. Any substitution shall be of comparable food value and shall be recorded on the menu prior to the meal or snack being served. To correct this violation, you added the date on the menus that were posted. Item #601 The refrigerator must maintain a temperature of less than 45 degree F. We discussed the storm and power outages. I suggested you contact a repair person for guidance on the refrigerator. Item #840 .2820(b) Hazardous items under pressure such as Pam Cooking Spray require locked storage. The closet in the kitchen containing hazardous items must remain locked. This included closing the lock on the door and removing the key. You corrected the violation by placing the Pam Cooking Spray in the closet and closing the lock and removing the key from the lock. Item #541 When parents complete the written feeding plan and return it to the facility, the date the facility received the written feeding plan must be listed. Please review forms as parents complete them and prior to the child enrolling. Item #1030 Applications for staff must be on file for review as staff are hired. One (1) substitute caregiver did not have an application for employment on file for review. I suggested that you have employees complete the application and create a file at the time of the interview so that forms are not mistakenly removed from the facility. You corrected this violation by having the substitute caregiver complete the application during the visit. Item #1032 One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a medical report on file dated February 2, 2022. I reminded you that medical reports for staff may be no older than 12 months prior to date of hire. Item #1033 One (1) lead teacher with a hire date of July 28, 2023, had a TB test on file dated December 10, 2021. I reminded you that the TB test for staff may be no older than 12 months prior to date of hire. Consultation was provided on the following. • In the hallway, an automatic air freshener holder was hanging on the wall. I encouraged to remove it from the wall to ensure that an aerosol air freshener will not be placed inside. • Staff will need to create a DCDEE WORKS account and submit official transcripts so their education can be evaluated. Please assist staff with creating and submitting their education in the Workforce Unit in the Raleigh office. On the DCDEE website choose the Provider tab, DCDEE WORKS, and review the DCDEE WORKS Training Simulator Step-by-Step Instructions. Let me know if you have any questions or problems getting this task completed. The following is general information for you to review to prepare for the Environment Rating Scale Assessment. ITERS-R and ECERS-R A variety of different types of blocks such as wooden unit blocks, soft unit blocks, cardboard blocks, and homemade blocks with enough blocks in each set for at least three children to build a structure should be provided. The block center should be large enough for three children to build a substantial structure without interfering with one each other’s play. Art projects should allow individual expression by children. Copied, cookie cutter type art projects do not offer children an opportunity for individual expression. Allow children to choose the art media of their choice and provide a variety of materials. The following are suggestions for art materials: markers, chalk, colored pencils, paper, crayons, dry erase markers, finger paint, tape, glue, stickers, small pieces of paper, play dough, clay, hole punchers, stencils, stamps, and scissors. Children under three years age should not have access to materials that would be considered choking hazards such as foam items, small crayons, small pieces of chalk, plastic bags, items easily torn apart or that would fit in a choking tube. You can use these materials under direct teacher supervision working one on one with the child during the art activity. Display in the classroom should be primarily children’s work and not teacher or store-bought display. Children’s art should be posted on their eye level. Avoid long periods of waiting during transitions such as bathroom time or from one activity to another. Develop ideas and strategies to reduce waiting time for children. Teachers can sing songs and do finger plays with the children who are waiting. If children wait more than three minutes without activity, then you will be marked down on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment score. Items such as puzzles and games that are missing pieces should be removed from the classroom and replaced. The classroom should have at least two books per child that are age appropriate for the children in the group. I suggested that books that portray violence be removed. A variety of books that portray real animal pictures, families, disabilities, and different cultures should be added to each classroom. Remove any books that are worn, torn or missing pages. I suggested that you have or purchase hats; boys dress shirts, ties, jerseys and dress coats from a consignment shop, yard sale or dollar store to enhance the dramatic play center. Other items that enhance dramatic play are telephone books, cooking aprons, restaurant menus, calculators, cash registers, cookbooks, and baby doll accessories. Add pictures, books, puzzles, block play people, baby dolls, music, play food and dress-up clothes that represent different cultures. Add pictures, puzzles and block play people that represent people of all ages and disabilities. Review your daily schedule and free play allotted times. Free play times need to be listed separate from all other activities such as hand washing, preparing to go home etc. All centers/materials should be accessible to children during free play. Water must be available to children throughout the day. Always have a pitcher of water and cups for children available. Tables must be cleaned with soapy water then wiped dry. Then spray table with the sanitizing solution and let it sit for at least two minutes before wiping dry. Follow this procedure before and after eating. Make sure no children are near the table when spraying the sanitizing solution. Sinks must be disinfected between changes of use. The staff should spray the sink with the disinfectant spray and allow the disinfectant to stay for at least two minutes before turning on the water and using the sink. All children must have their diapers or pull ups checked or changed at least every two hours and when soiled. Use a timer or follow a daily individual diaper changing schedule to keep you within the two-hour timeframe. Children must wash their hands upon arrival, before and after eating, before and after sand and water play, after toileting, after outdoor play, after handling messy art materials such as paint, glue, and playdough and after touching nose, mouth, floor, trashcan, and anything else that re-contaminates the hands. Staff should follow proper handwashing procedures and wash hands as required. Remove mouthed items from play immediately and sanitize before allowing other children to play with item. You must interact with children in relation to their play with materials. At least two instances must be observed. Math/number - One instance must be observed during routine care as well as during free play of using math/number. SACERS-U Avoid long periods of waiting during transitions such as bathroom time or from one activity to another. Develop ideas and strategies to reduce waiting time for children. Teachers can sing songs and do finger plays with the children who are waiting. If children wait more than three minutes without activity, then you will be marked down on the Environment Rating Scale Assessment score. Display children’s artwork in the classrooms. Include 2-D and 3-D art and craft projects to complete on the activity plan and display. Staff members should sit with children during meals and when possible, during snacks. Handwashing is required when: After children use the toilet or after assisting individual children with toileting routines. Immediately before meal or snack preparation and eating as well as after eating. (Remember to avoid recontamination of hands that can occur when unclean surfaces such as floors or toys are touched before eating.) Upon arrival and after outdoor play After messy activities (e.g., sand play, play dough). Before/after group water play After dealing with bodily fluids (e.g., wiping noses, coughing into hands, bandaging a scraped knee), even if gloves are used. Child sized tables and chairs must be correctly sized for at least 75% of children to receive credit. Gross motor equipment must be sturdy, age appropriate and stimulate many skills such as climbing, balancing, hanging by arms, sliding, riding tricycles and bicycles. You must have a variety of portable materials in good repair accessible to play individual and group gross motor games that stimulate many skills. Active play must occur indoors when they cannot not go outdoors due to precipitating weather. Make sure to always follow the weather watch chart to determine if weather is permitting for outdoor activities. Dramatic Play - Staff must extend dramatic play by offering suggestions, finding appropriate space, and assisting development of dramatic play roles. Language and reading activities - Children should be encouraged to use reading/writing in practical situations such as reading instructions for games, write letters to friends, and retrieve information online. Math and reasoning - Staff must encourage children to practice math/reasoning skills in daily activities such as recording scores for games, younger children set table with correct number of plates/napkins, measure and cut craft material accurately. Science and nature activities - Some science/nature books must be used to extend children’s information. Such as a book open on table near collection of pinecones and acorns, book about insect specimens and staff use the books to answer children’s questions about materials. Greeting and departing - Staff must acknowledge and personally greet children during arrival and departure. Staff and child communication - Staff and children’s conversations must be frequent. Language should be generally used by staff to exchange information with children and for social interaction. Most of the language observed during the assessment should be personal conversation and talking about topics of mutual interest rather than all directive language. Children should be asked why, how, what if questions that require longer and more complex answers. Children must be free to decide not to participate in any activity they choose. For example, if the teacher does a group time activity, the teacher cannot require all children to participate. Children should be given alternate activities. Tables must be cleaned with soapy water then wiped dry. Then spray with sanitizing solution and let sit for at least two minutes before wiping dry. Follow this procedure before and after eating. Make sure no children are near the table when spraying sanitizing solution. Sinks must be disinfected between changes of use. The staff should spray the sink with the disinfectant spray and allow the disinfectant to stay for at least two minutes before turning on the water and using the sink. Schedule - At least one fine motor/language activity must be scheduled daily. Staff need to read with children each day. This would be a free choice activity for children to choose to listen to the book. Since you want to have the Environment Rating Scale completed, I recommended that you visit www.ncrlap.org for supplemental materials for preparing for the Environment Rating Scale Assessments. Additional notes to the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale Revised Edition can be obtained on this website. NCRLAP also offers Webinar trainings for staff. I also recommended that you register staff now for the upcoming Webinar trainings listed on the ncrlap.org website. Contact your local Child Care Resource and Referral office for further technical assistance with the Environment Rating Scales. Reminders: Any observed violations cited during visits will negatively affect the center's Compliance History Score. Your program must maintain a compliance score of at least 75% as required by G.S. 110-90 (4)(c). Your temporary license will end after January 10, 2024. Stay updated with changes and new rule updates by visiting the DCDEE website at: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov. COVID-19 Resources Visit yourspotyourshot.nc.gov for up-to-date information. Hotline 1-877-490-6642 Health and Safety Training must be completed within one year of employment for new staff and every five years for staff that have already completed the training. Compliance Letter: You must correct the violations found during today's visit immediately. Please send me a letter verifying compliance by August 29, 2023. Please include in that letter each violation number and explain in detail how you corrected each violation and what plan will be implemented to prevent these violations from occurring again. Please sign the letter, include your facility name, ID number, visit date and mail the letter to my mailing address below or email the letter to me at jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov: Jennifer Roberts PO Box 426 Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 Failure to correct the violations and send the written statement by the due date listed above will result in an unannounced follow-up visit being conducted or an administrative action may be recommended. Based on Child Care Rule 10A NCAC 09 Section .2200, the Division of Child Development may take administrative action against the license and/or impose civil penalties based on the failure of the operator to correct any documented violations within the established time period. If you state in your corrective action plan letter, that corrections have been made when they have not, it will be considered falsification of information. SECTION .2200 - ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND CIVIL PENALTIES 10A NCAC 09 .2201 ADMINISTRATIVE actions GENERAL PROVISIONS Upon a finding that a child care facility operator has violated any provision of G.S. 110, Article 7, the rules of this Chapter, or 10A NCAC 10, the Secretary or his or her designee may order one or more administrative actions. Thank you for your time and assistance today. You can reach me at 828-782-0945, jennifer.roberts@dhhs.nc.gov or at PO Box 426, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673 or my supervisor, Tammy McGalliard at tammy.mcgalliard@dhhs.nc.gov. 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