10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY Facility ID: 92003835 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 73 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to inspect the facility for compliance with child care requirements during your annual compliance visit. The center currently operates with a 3 STAR rated license. The center is approved for 129 children ages 0-12. My visit was conducted with Jamie Thieman, Eli Hilliard, Owners/Co-Administrators and Shaniqua Marrow, Administrator. During today’s visit an assessment of Child Care Requirements was conducted, inspecting all space used by children. Upon arrival to the program today, the children were observed doing various morning activities. Some were having circle time and others were playing in centers. Other classrooms were playing outside on the playground. Daily arrival and departure times are documented in a notebook at the entrance to the classrooms. The license and all required information was observed posted. Classroom Observations: Sleeping baby checks for all infants ages 0-12 months were monitored and observed to be current and on file. Staff/child ratios were observed to be in compliance and space capacity did not exceed that which was allowed. Supervision was observed being maintained. One of the Infant classrooms has been closed temporarily and merged with Infant Room #1 due to low enrollment. Equipment and furnishings were observed and we did discuss that the blue half round table in the 4/5 year old classroom needs to be deep cleaned. There was a significant amount of grime on the table along with marker and crayon markings. It is my understanding that the table is used for art activities but we discussed that the grime can be cleaned off. We also discussed that the trashcan lid and sides of trash can of the two year old classroom was very dirty and had dried food and other liquids stuck on it. I observed that in the 2/3 year old classroom, the only activity plan present was dated 2-3-25 to 2-7-25. I also observed numerous classrooms which had items accessible to the children which pose safety hazards. In the one year old classroom, there was a bottle of Aveeno body lotion sitting beside the sink accessible to the children. This lotion was not labeled so it is unknown who it belonged to. If staff keep lotions in the classrooms for staff use only, the lotions should be labeled “staff” and kept out of reach of the children. In the 2/3 year old classroom, I observed a package of Parents Choice brand baby wipes sitting on a plastic bin with cabinets beside of the toilet accessible to the children. There was also a hole in the tile beside the heat/ac unit which needs to be repaired. There was also an electrical outlet uncovered on the wall as you enter the classroom on the right. In the four year old classroom in which there were also three year old children enrolled, a staff purse was observed sitting on the teachers desk accessible to the children. In the 4/5 year old classroom, the panel box on the wall was observed unlocked and partially open which is a safety concern due to the amount of electricity which runs through the panel. I also observed a surge protector on a cabinet in this classroom which had 5 outlets uncovered. In the 3 / 4 year old classroom, I did suggest that staff work with children more to engage them in activities. Children love to explore but should learn boundaries with people and learning to “play” with their friends. Staff should use themselves as an example of interactive play with the children. The staff present wad observed circulating the classroom in an effort to monitor behavior of the children but communication was more of directional instructions than assisting the children to learn social play. We discussed ways today that staff can enhance the social play experience for the children. We discussed an example, there were children who were playing in the block area running around the block area rolling cars on the walls and tops of shelves and throwing cars across the floor. An example on how that could be expanded is to show children how to build a pretend train track or road for the children to roll their cars on instead of the walls and throwing the cars across the classroom. For outside time, the children play in a fenced areas. On the outside playground, there was an empty clear ziploc bag and a plastic glove laying on the ground. Staff should be doing routine checks on the playgrounds prior to children using them. This assures that the play areas remain clean and pose no safety concerns for the children. Outdoor playgrounds should be checked daily preferably in the morning hours prior to the children's arrival to assure that all potentially hazardous items are removed. Staff Files: Staff and training worksheets were submitted to me during my visit today. Criminal background checks were monitored for all staff and four new staff files were monitored as well. I did not observe that one staff member hired on 10-11-24 has not had the required Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment module. We also discussed that several staff are in need of on-going training hours. These hours must be completed no later than 3-31-25. A spot check was conducted on ten children's files and all were observed to be in compliance. I inspected the facilities posted information such as the license, EMC plan, emergency telephone numbers, staff/ratio sheets, allergy lists, etc. and all were observed to be in compliance. Fire drills, EPR drills and outdoor playground inspections were monitored and observed to be in compliance. Fire and sanitation inspections were current and on file. The most recent fire inspection was 3-9-24. A new one is due no later than 3-9-25. Please send me a copy of the new fire inspection once it has been completed. The most recent sanitation inspection was conducted on 10-8-24 and a Superior rating was awarded. The center is not approved for transportation so those requirements were not monitored. *****Violations: Six (6) violations of child care requirements pertaining to safety, sanitation, staff files, and program records were observed out of compliance. A corrective action letter stating how each violation was corrected is due to me no later than March 10, 2025 and can be e-mailed or mailed to me at the contact information at the end of this report. Please remember to address each violation individually and indicate your center name and ID number. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. One classroom did not have a current activity plan posted. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The trash can in the two year old classroom was observed to have a large amount of dried food and debris on the lid and down the sides. A table in the 4/5 year old classroom had grime and needs to be deep cleaned. .0601(c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. A bottle of Aveeno body lotion was observed accessible to the children in the one year old classroom. In the 4/5 year old classroom the electrical panel box was unlocked and partially open. The doors to the Kitchen were observed propped open and the Cook was delivering meals to the classrooms. A staff member's purse was observed sitting on a desk in the 3/4 year old classroom. Baby wipes were observed sitting beside a toilet in the 2/3 year old classroom. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Electrical outlets were observed uncovered in the 2/3 year old and 4/5 year old classrooms. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. A plastic bag and a plastic glove were observed on the ground on the outside playground. .0604(q) 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 new staff member did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment Training. .1102(g) Technical Assistance: •ACTIVITY PLANS - Complete weekly activity plans (dated) that include developmentally appropriate activities for enrolled children. Activity plans for all children must meet the following minimum licensing requirements: *Include activities daily to stimulate the following 5 developmental domains, as listed in your NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development book: (social &emotional development, health & physical development, approaches to play and learning, language development/communication, and cognitive development). *Include a daily gross motor activity which may occur indoors or outdoors. *Reflect at least 4 activities daily (one of which is gross motor), one of which is offered outdoors, weather permitting. The remaining 3 activities should occur in the following areas (art/creative play, children’s books, blocks and block building, manipulatives and family living/dramatic play). *Include both free choice and adult-directed activities, that allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, in a small group or independently. *In addition, activity plans must include each of these 3 enrichment activities on at least a weekly basis: sand or water play; science and nature; and music and rhythm. A sample lesson plan form containing all required components was provided. *Materials and equipment must be available both inside and outside to support the activities on the activity plan and the daily schedule. A designated staff member should conduct a walk through of the facility to verify activity plans are posted and current. Creating consistent procedures helps maintain compliance with activity plans. • Keeping all surfaces and furnishings clean helps reduce the spread of disease from one child to another. Part of the daily cleaning duties for each classroom should be wiped down and cleaned and sanitized. I suggest that you review staff cleaning responsibilities with staff on a one on one basis. • We also discussed that I would like to see the outdoor environment offer some enhancements for the children. Swings benches create a comfortable space for reading, feeding, or holding infants. Water features use tubs, sprinklers, and sprayers to let children experiment with water. Outdoor surfaces create different surfaces for balance and jumping, like logs, beams, and stumps. We also discussed that it would be a great idea to have some plates, pots and pans for imaginative play with the picnic table that is present on the playground. Staff can also take crayons and paper for the children to draw and color things which they see outside. • Approximately 2,400 children are injured annually by inserting objects into the slots of electrical outlets. For this reason, all electrical outlets, including those on power strips, not in use that are in areas accessible to children must be protected with a safety plug or should be classified as a tamper-resistant electrical outlet. Consider adding a note near the outlets to serve as a reminder to re-cover the outlets. Review this with teachers during orientation as part of the observation of daily routines. Hold a staff meeting to review the different ways you all can work together to maintain compliance with childcare requirements regarding outlet covers. Please feel free to call me with questions. Contact me with questions at: Kim.Wimberly@dhhs.nc.gov PO BOX 609 Knightdale, NC 27545 919-819-9387 http://ncchildcaresearch.dhhs.state.nc.us If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY Facility ID: 92003835 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 73 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to inspect the facility for compliance with child care requirements during your annual compliance visit. The center currently operates with a 3 STAR rated license. The center is approved for 129 children ages 0-12. My visit was conducted with Jamie Thieman, Eli Hilliard, Owners/Co-Administrators and Shaniqua Marrow, Administrator. During today’s visit an assessment of Child Care Requirements was conducted, inspecting all space used by children. Upon arrival to the program today, the children were observed doing various morning activities. Some were having circle time and others were playing in centers. Other classrooms were playing outside on the playground. Daily arrival and departure times are documented in a notebook at the entrance to the classrooms. The license and all required information was observed posted. Classroom Observations: Sleeping baby checks for all infants ages 0-12 months were monitored and observed to be current and on file. Staff/child ratios were observed to be in compliance and space capacity did not exceed that which was allowed. Supervision was observed being maintained. One of the Infant classrooms has been closed temporarily and merged with Infant Room #1 due to low enrollment. Equipment and furnishings were observed and we did discuss that the blue half round table in the 4/5 year old classroom needs to be deep cleaned. There was a significant amount of grime on the table along with marker and crayon markings. It is my understanding that the table is used for art activities but we discussed that the grime can be cleaned off. We also discussed that the trashcan lid and sides of trash can of the two year old classroom was very dirty and had dried food and other liquids stuck on it. I observed that in the 2/3 year old classroom, the only activity plan present was dated 2-3-25 to 2-7-25. I also observed numerous classrooms which had items accessible to the children which pose safety hazards. In the one year old classroom, there was a bottle of Aveeno body lotion sitting beside the sink accessible to the children. This lotion was not labeled so it is unknown who it belonged to. If staff keep lotions in the classrooms for staff use only, the lotions should be labeled “staff” and kept out of reach of the children. In the 2/3 year old classroom, I observed a package of Parents Choice brand baby wipes sitting on a plastic bin with cabinets beside of the toilet accessible to the children. There was also a hole in the tile beside the heat/ac unit which needs to be repaired. There was also an electrical outlet uncovered on the wall as you enter the classroom on the right. In the four year old classroom in which there were also three year old children enrolled, a staff purse was observed sitting on the teachers desk accessible to the children. In the 4/5 year old classroom, the panel box on the wall was observed unlocked and partially open which is a safety concern due to the amount of electricity which runs through the panel. I also observed a surge protector on a cabinet in this classroom which had 5 outlets uncovered. In the 3 / 4 year old classroom, I did suggest that staff work with children more to engage them in activities. Children love to explore but should learn boundaries with people and learning to “play” with their friends. Staff should use themselves as an example of interactive play with the children. The staff present wad observed circulating the classroom in an effort to monitor behavior of the children but communication was more of directional instructions than assisting the children to learn social play. We discussed ways today that staff can enhance the social play experience for the children. We discussed an example, there were children who were playing in the block area running around the block area rolling cars on the walls and tops of shelves and throwing cars across the floor. An example on how that could be expanded is to show children how to build a pretend train track or road for the children to roll their cars on instead of the walls and throwing the cars across the classroom. For outside time, the children play in a fenced areas. On the outside playground, there was an empty clear ziploc bag and a plastic glove laying on the ground. Staff should be doing routine checks on the playgrounds prior to children using them. This assures that the play areas remain clean and pose no safety concerns for the children. Outdoor playgrounds should be checked daily preferably in the morning hours prior to the children's arrival to assure that all potentially hazardous items are removed. Staff Files: Staff and training worksheets were submitted to me during my visit today. Criminal background checks were monitored for all staff and four new staff files were monitored as well. I did not observe that one staff member hired on 10-11-24 has not had the required Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment module. We also discussed that several staff are in need of on-going training hours. These hours must be completed no later than 3-31-25. A spot check was conducted on ten children's files and all were observed to be in compliance. I inspected the facilities posted information such as the license, EMC plan, emergency telephone numbers, staff/ratio sheets, allergy lists, etc. and all were observed to be in compliance. Fire drills, EPR drills and outdoor playground inspections were monitored and observed to be in compliance. Fire and sanitation inspections were current and on file. The most recent fire inspection was 3-9-24. A new one is due no later than 3-9-25. Please send me a copy of the new fire inspection once it has been completed. The most recent sanitation inspection was conducted on 10-8-24 and a Superior rating was awarded. The center is not approved for transportation so those requirements were not monitored. *****Violations: Six (6) violations of child care requirements pertaining to safety, sanitation, staff files, and program records were observed out of compliance. A corrective action letter stating how each violation was corrected is due to me no later than March 10, 2025 and can be e-mailed or mailed to me at the contact information at the end of this report. Please remember to address each violation individually and indicate your center name and ID number. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. One classroom did not have a current activity plan posted. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The trash can in the two year old classroom was observed to have a large amount of dried food and debris on the lid and down the sides. A table in the 4/5 year old classroom had grime and needs to be deep cleaned. .0601(c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. A bottle of Aveeno body lotion was observed accessible to the children in the one year old classroom. In the 4/5 year old classroom the electrical panel box was unlocked and partially open. The doors to the Kitchen were observed propped open and the Cook was delivering meals to the classrooms. A staff member's purse was observed sitting on a desk in the 3/4 year old classroom. Baby wipes were observed sitting beside a toilet in the 2/3 year old classroom. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Electrical outlets were observed uncovered in the 2/3 year old and 4/5 year old classrooms. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. A plastic bag and a plastic glove were observed on the ground on the outside playground. .0604(q) 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 new staff member did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment Training. .1102(g) Technical Assistance: •ACTIVITY PLANS - Complete weekly activity plans (dated) that include developmentally appropriate activities for enrolled children. Activity plans for all children must meet the following minimum licensing requirements: *Include activities daily to stimulate the following 5 developmental domains, as listed in your NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development book: (social &emotional development, health & physical development, approaches to play and learning, language development/communication, and cognitive development). *Include a daily gross motor activity which may occur indoors or outdoors. *Reflect at least 4 activities daily (one of which is gross motor), one of which is offered outdoors, weather permitting. The remaining 3 activities should occur in the following areas (art/creative play, children’s books, blocks and block building, manipulatives and family living/dramatic play). *Include both free choice and adult-directed activities, that allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, in a small group or independently. *In addition, activity plans must include each of these 3 enrichment activities on at least a weekly basis: sand or water play; science and nature; and music and rhythm. A sample lesson plan form containing all required components was provided. *Materials and equipment must be available both inside and outside to support the activities on the activity plan and the daily schedule. A designated staff member should conduct a walk through of the facility to verify activity plans are posted and current. Creating consistent procedures helps maintain compliance with activity plans. • Keeping all surfaces and furnishings clean helps reduce the spread of disease from one child to another. Part of the daily cleaning duties for each classroom should be wiped down and cleaned and sanitized. I suggest that you review staff cleaning responsibilities with staff on a one on one basis. • We also discussed that I would like to see the outdoor environment offer some enhancements for the children. Swings benches create a comfortable space for reading, feeding, or holding infants. Water features use tubs, sprinklers, and sprayers to let children experiment with water. Outdoor surfaces create different surfaces for balance and jumping, like logs, beams, and stumps. We also discussed that it would be a great idea to have some plates, pots and pans for imaginative play with the picnic table that is present on the playground. Staff can also take crayons and paper for the children to draw and color things which they see outside. • Approximately 2,400 children are injured annually by inserting objects into the slots of electrical outlets. For this reason, all electrical outlets, including those on power strips, not in use that are in areas accessible to children must be protected with a safety plug or should be classified as a tamper-resistant electrical outlet. Consider adding a note near the outlets to serve as a reminder to re-cover the outlets. Review this with teachers during orientation as part of the observation of daily routines. Hold a staff meeting to review the different ways you all can work together to maintain compliance with childcare requirements regarding outlet covers. Please feel free to call me with questions. Contact me with questions at: Kim.Wimberly@dhhs.nc.gov PO BOX 609 Knightdale, NC 27545 919-819-9387 http://ncchildcaresearch.dhhs.state.nc.us If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

GS 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY Facility ID: 92003835 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 2/24/2025 Number Present: 73 Completed Date: 2/24/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 220 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 01:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to inspect the facility for compliance with child care requirements during your annual compliance visit. The center currently operates with a 3 STAR rated license. The center is approved for 129 children ages 0-12. My visit was conducted with Jamie Thieman, Eli Hilliard, Owners/Co-Administrators and Shaniqua Marrow, Administrator. During today’s visit an assessment of Child Care Requirements was conducted, inspecting all space used by children. Upon arrival to the program today, the children were observed doing various morning activities. Some were having circle time and others were playing in centers. Other classrooms were playing outside on the playground. Daily arrival and departure times are documented in a notebook at the entrance to the classrooms. The license and all required information was observed posted. Classroom Observations: Sleeping baby checks for all infants ages 0-12 months were monitored and observed to be current and on file. Staff/child ratios were observed to be in compliance and space capacity did not exceed that which was allowed. Supervision was observed being maintained. One of the Infant classrooms has been closed temporarily and merged with Infant Room #1 due to low enrollment. Equipment and furnishings were observed and we did discuss that the blue half round table in the 4/5 year old classroom needs to be deep cleaned. There was a significant amount of grime on the table along with marker and crayon markings. It is my understanding that the table is used for art activities but we discussed that the grime can be cleaned off. We also discussed that the trashcan lid and sides of trash can of the two year old classroom was very dirty and had dried food and other liquids stuck on it. I observed that in the 2/3 year old classroom, the only activity plan present was dated 2-3-25 to 2-7-25. I also observed numerous classrooms which had items accessible to the children which pose safety hazards. In the one year old classroom, there was a bottle of Aveeno body lotion sitting beside the sink accessible to the children. This lotion was not labeled so it is unknown who it belonged to. If staff keep lotions in the classrooms for staff use only, the lotions should be labeled “staff” and kept out of reach of the children. In the 2/3 year old classroom, I observed a package of Parents Choice brand baby wipes sitting on a plastic bin with cabinets beside of the toilet accessible to the children. There was also a hole in the tile beside the heat/ac unit which needs to be repaired. There was also an electrical outlet uncovered on the wall as you enter the classroom on the right. In the four year old classroom in which there were also three year old children enrolled, a staff purse was observed sitting on the teachers desk accessible to the children. In the 4/5 year old classroom, the panel box on the wall was observed unlocked and partially open which is a safety concern due to the amount of electricity which runs through the panel. I also observed a surge protector on a cabinet in this classroom which had 5 outlets uncovered. In the 3 / 4 year old classroom, I did suggest that staff work with children more to engage them in activities. Children love to explore but should learn boundaries with people and learning to “play” with their friends. Staff should use themselves as an example of interactive play with the children. The staff present wad observed circulating the classroom in an effort to monitor behavior of the children but communication was more of directional instructions than assisting the children to learn social play. We discussed ways today that staff can enhance the social play experience for the children. We discussed an example, there were children who were playing in the block area running around the block area rolling cars on the walls and tops of shelves and throwing cars across the floor. An example on how that could be expanded is to show children how to build a pretend train track or road for the children to roll their cars on instead of the walls and throwing the cars across the classroom. For outside time, the children play in a fenced areas. On the outside playground, there was an empty clear ziploc bag and a plastic glove laying on the ground. Staff should be doing routine checks on the playgrounds prior to children using them. This assures that the play areas remain clean and pose no safety concerns for the children. Outdoor playgrounds should be checked daily preferably in the morning hours prior to the children's arrival to assure that all potentially hazardous items are removed. Staff Files: Staff and training worksheets were submitted to me during my visit today. Criminal background checks were monitored for all staff and four new staff files were monitored as well. I did not observe that one staff member hired on 10-11-24 has not had the required Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment module. We also discussed that several staff are in need of on-going training hours. These hours must be completed no later than 3-31-25. A spot check was conducted on ten children's files and all were observed to be in compliance. I inspected the facilities posted information such as the license, EMC plan, emergency telephone numbers, staff/ratio sheets, allergy lists, etc. and all were observed to be in compliance. Fire drills, EPR drills and outdoor playground inspections were monitored and observed to be in compliance. Fire and sanitation inspections were current and on file. The most recent fire inspection was 3-9-24. A new one is due no later than 3-9-25. Please send me a copy of the new fire inspection once it has been completed. The most recent sanitation inspection was conducted on 10-8-24 and a Superior rating was awarded. The center is not approved for transportation so those requirements were not monitored. *****Violations: Six (6) violations of child care requirements pertaining to safety, sanitation, staff files, and program records were observed out of compliance. A corrective action letter stating how each violation was corrected is due to me no later than March 10, 2025 and can be e-mailed or mailed to me at the contact information at the end of this report. Please remember to address each violation individually and indicate your center name and ID number. Violation Number Comment Rule 428 A current activity plan was not posted for each group of children for reference. One classroom did not have a current activity plan posted. GS 110-91(12); .0508(a) 705 Equipment and furnishings were not sturdy, stable and free of hazards. The trash can in the two year old classroom was observed to have a large amount of dried food and debris on the lid and down the sides. A table in the 4/5 year old classroom had grime and needs to be deep cleaned. .0601(c) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. A bottle of Aveeno body lotion was observed accessible to the children in the one year old classroom. In the 4/5 year old classroom the electrical panel box was unlocked and partially open. The doors to the Kitchen were observed propped open and the Cook was delivering meals to the classrooms. A staff member's purse was observed sitting on a desk in the 3/4 year old classroom. Baby wipes were observed sitting beside a toilet in the 2/3 year old classroom. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 812 Electrical outlets and power strips, not in use, which were located in space used by children did not have safety outlets or were not covered with safety plugs unless located behind furniture or equipment that cannot be moved by a child. Electrical outlets were observed uncovered in the 2/3 year old and 4/5 year old classrooms. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(c) 858 Plastic bags, materials that could be torn apart and toy parts small enough to be swallowed were accessible to children under three years of age. A plastic bag and a plastic glove were observed on the ground on the outside playground. .0604(q) 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 new staff member did not complete the Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment Training. .1102(g) Technical Assistance: •ACTIVITY PLANS - Complete weekly activity plans (dated) that include developmentally appropriate activities for enrolled children. Activity plans for all children must meet the following minimum licensing requirements: *Include activities daily to stimulate the following 5 developmental domains, as listed in your NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development book: (social &emotional development, health & physical development, approaches to play and learning, language development/communication, and cognitive development). *Include a daily gross motor activity which may occur indoors or outdoors. *Reflect at least 4 activities daily (one of which is gross motor), one of which is offered outdoors, weather permitting. The remaining 3 activities should occur in the following areas (art/creative play, children’s books, blocks and block building, manipulatives and family living/dramatic play). *Include both free choice and adult-directed activities, that allow children to choose to participate with the whole group, in a small group or independently. *In addition, activity plans must include each of these 3 enrichment activities on at least a weekly basis: sand or water play; science and nature; and music and rhythm. A sample lesson plan form containing all required components was provided. *Materials and equipment must be available both inside and outside to support the activities on the activity plan and the daily schedule. A designated staff member should conduct a walk through of the facility to verify activity plans are posted and current. Creating consistent procedures helps maintain compliance with activity plans. • Keeping all surfaces and furnishings clean helps reduce the spread of disease from one child to another. Part of the daily cleaning duties for each classroom should be wiped down and cleaned and sanitized. I suggest that you review staff cleaning responsibilities with staff on a one on one basis. • We also discussed that I would like to see the outdoor environment offer some enhancements for the children. Swings benches create a comfortable space for reading, feeding, or holding infants. Water features use tubs, sprinklers, and sprayers to let children experiment with water. Outdoor surfaces create different surfaces for balance and jumping, like logs, beams, and stumps. We also discussed that it would be a great idea to have some plates, pots and pans for imaginative play with the picnic table that is present on the playground. Staff can also take crayons and paper for the children to draw and color things which they see outside. • Approximately 2,400 children are injured annually by inserting objects into the slots of electrical outlets. For this reason, all electrical outlets, including those on power strips, not in use that are in areas accessible to children must be protected with a safety plug or should be classified as a tamper-resistant electrical outlet. Consider adding a note near the outlets to serve as a reminder to re-cover the outlets. Review this with teachers during orientation as part of the observation of daily routines. Hold a staff meeting to review the different ways you all can work together to maintain compliance with childcare requirements regarding outlet covers. Please feel free to call me with questions. Contact me with questions at: Kim.Wimberly@dhhs.nc.gov PO BOX 609 Knightdale, NC 27545 919-819-9387 http://ncchildcaresearch.dhhs.state.nc.us If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY Facility ID: 92003835 Consultant: LEANNE SIMPKINS Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0125-328L Visit Date: 1/31/2025 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 1/31/2025 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 95 Time In: 09:50 AM Time Out: 11:25 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s announced visit was to investigate a report alleging violation of applicable childcare requirements regarding criminal background checks. Prior to sharing the allegations with the director, I monitored seven classrooms for staff/child ratios, group sizes, capacity, supervision, discipline, and interactions. Allegation: There is a concern related to a staff member’s qualification letter and criminal background. The allegation was shared with the director. A copy of the criminal background check disqualification letter was shared with you today. A copy of the hand delivery form was signed and reviewed with you today. During the walkthrough, I verified that the named employee was on the premises working today. I reviewed one staff file today. The criminal background check qualifying letter was on file that was dated 3/3/2022 and would expire 3/3/2027. The letter is no longer valid. The employee was hired 10/8/2024 and has been working full time since then. Based on the fact that the employee was found to be working during today’s visit, the allegation was substantiated. The employee left the premises during the visit. The director understands that the disqualified employee may not be on the premises at any time and may not work in any licensed childcare facility in NC. Since you completed the new procedures for access to the ABCMS portal a violation will not be cited. I verified that the ABCMS portal was current. We verified that an email was not sent to notify the facility of a disqualified employee. I was not able to enter enrollment electronically today. I completed the hand written copy of the enrollment/staff/child ratios. Violation Number Comment Rule 1799 A child care provider or uncompensated provider found to be disqualified and not eligible for employment in child care was employed or living in the home. An employee was found to be working during today's visit with a disqualification letter dated 12/13/2024. G.S. 110-90.2 & .2703(i) The violation cited today was corrected during the visit. This person was disqualified 12/13/2024 and the employee was sent a copy of the disqualification letter. The center director was not notified that the employee was disqualified through ABCMS. Feel free to contact me with questions or concerns. I may be reached at 919-819-9386 or email LeAnne.Simpkins@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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY Facility ID: 92003835 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0924-276L Visit Date: 9/26/2024 Number Present: 66 Completed Date: 9/26/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 130 Time In: 09:50 AM Time Out: 12:00 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit today was to investigate complaint allegations regarding supervision. Today’s visit was conducted with Shaniqua Marrow, Co-Administrator. Eli Hilliard another Co-Administrator also arrived during the visit. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the indoor environment were monitored during my visit today. The license and emergency care plan were posted. Storage of hazardous products was monitored and I did observe that the door to an unlicensed space was open and I observed that there were paint cans sitting on a counter. Paint is considered hazardous to the children and since the door to the room it was being stored was open with no one present in the room, this made the paint accessible to the children. I observed the children having gross motor time in an empty classroom and some were playing in centers. The infants were being fed, changed and two infants were observed napping in cribs. I discussed the allegation with Ms. Marrow and Ms. Hilliard and the findings are below. Allegation - There is a concern of inadequate supervision in the classroom for the one-year-old children. There are two toddler classrooms and observations were conducted in both classrooms that care for the one-year-old children. Toddler classroom #1 – The children were observed playing in a gross motor room which is labeled as space #2 on the floor plan . Staff member #1 was sitting on the floor interacting with the children and staff member #2 (floater) was standing near the entry door observing the children. I monitored the number of incident reports for toddler classroom #1 and for the timeframe 6-1-24 to 9-26-24, there have been 44 total incident reports completed for injuries. Fourteen incident reports were for bumps, scratches and thirty incident reports were for children being bitten. We discussed that one child was specifically bitten a total of eight times in a period of 8-15-24 to 9-19-24 . Ms. Hilliard did state that the center has been working on shadowing the children who bite to try to be proactive to avoid future occurrences. During my observations today, I did not observe children being shadowed. This is an excessive number of incidents regarding biting and I should be able to see evidence of what measures are being taken to get this issue under control but as stated above, I did not observe shadowing and based on staff interview, no additional training has been put in place for staff to enhance their awareness of safety with Toddlers. Toddler Classroom #2 – During my observation, the children were observed cleaning up and then transitioning to the gross motor room for gross motor time. The children were observed becoming restless waiting for transition and began pulling more toys off the shelves, climbing on shelves and pushing other children. Transition songs or activities could be used to assist with too much “waiting” time. Incidents reports were reviewed for toddler #2 classroom and for the period of 6-1-24 to 9-26-24, there were a total of twenty-one (21) incident reports completed for injuries. Twelve incident reports were for scratches/bumps/bruises and nine incident reports were completed for children getting bitten. Based on observations, staff interview and reviewing documentation of incident reports, this allegation is substantiated. I suggest that steps be taken immediately to address the excessive number of incidents which have occurred in these two classrooms. While staff were observed visually supervising the children during my visit today, there is work that still needs to be done in terms of working with staff to create new routines for children and keeping them engaged. Two violations regarding safety and supervision were observed during my visit today. A corrective action letter stating how the violations were corrected is due to me no later than October 10, 2024. The letter can be emailed to Kim.Wimberly@dhhs.nc.gov or mail to PO Box 609, Knightdale, NC 27545. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. Based on observations, staff interview and reviewing documentation of incident reports, it was determined that there were lapses in supervision in the one-year-old classrooms. .1801(a)(1-5) 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. I did observe that the door to an unlicensed space was open and I observed that there were paint cans sitting on a counter. .2820(b) Child Care programs are expected to achieve and maintain compliance at all times and are required by NC GS 110-90(4) (d) to achieve and maintain an eighteen-month compliance history score of at least seventy-five percent. Please feel free to call me with questions. Technical Assistance: Technical assistance was provided today on strategies and techniques for issues with biting. When children bite, there are several factors which could be the cause of it which include but not limited to communication issues, anger issues, sleep issues or changes in home or child care environment. We discussed doing some tracking by means of documentation for specific times of day or instances which cause the biting to occur. Resources should also be offered to the parents of the child/ren who bite. We discussed that it is a good idea to have lists of resources for parents and teachers to use when issues arise. We also discussed the importance of routine and structure for the children. Involving the children in the clean up will help them feel ownership in their classroom. Transition music is also an option. Ms. Hilliard stated that she would work with the teachers further to improve the routines of the classrooms. We discussed a great resource is Project Enlightenment in Raleigh, located on Boylan Avenue. The telephone number is 919-856-7774. They have a large resource library as well as parent classes to assist with biting and many other concerns with children. You can also contact a local HSB specialist for assistance Jesse Norris, jessen@childcareservices.org . They offer coaching and consultation to address challenging behaviors, support children, families and early childhood professionals. While observing in space I asked the teachers why they were not playing on either of the outside play areas and staff stated to me “because it is still wet.” I did observe that the outdoor play area which is designated for infant/toddlers does have a cover over it by way of an awning and I did not observe any water standing or other issues that would prevent the children from playing outside. I did observe that the sand box now has loose mulch on top of it . The mulch will need to be removed so that the children can play in the sand box. One staff member stated to me that the children like to play in the sand box and get very dirty when it has been raining and not all children have a change of clothes at the center. Ms. Hilliard stated that there are bins of extra clothes in the resource room for children who do not have extra clothes at the center. Child care rules require children be allowed to play outside every day weather permitting. Based on the Child Care Weather Watch chart, the conditions would not prevent children from playing outside. We discussed today that the toddler room #1 not going outside today appeared to be more of a teacher choice and not a weather issue. Please make sure that the children do get to participate in their outside time this afternoon. I would encourage you to review the Child Care Weather Watch chart with all staff. Ms. Hilliard stated she would talk with the staff. Kim Wimberly PO Box 609 Knightdale, NC 27545 919-819-9387 Kim.Wimberly@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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

NC GS 110-90 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY Facility ID: 92003835 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 0524-402L Visit Date: 6/5/2024 Number Present: 74 Completed Date: 6/5/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 50 Time In: 10:25 AM Time Out: 11:15 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit today was to investigate complaint allegations regarding staff/child ratios and supervision. Today’s visit was conducted with Elizabeth Hilliard, Co-Owner, Co-Director. Staff/child ratio, group size, supervision, use of licensed space, space capacity, license restrictions, and the indoor environment were monitored during my visit today. The license and emergency care plan were posted. Upon arrival to the center, I observed the children having playing outside and others were preparing for lunch time. I discussed the allegations with Ms. Hilliard and the findings are below. Allegation #1 - There is a concern that the posted staff/child ratios are not being followed. On 3-7-24 during an annual compliance visit, the owners of the program requested to reduce from enhanced staff/child ratios to meet minimum staff/child ratios as stated in Child Care Rule .0713 (a.) A new license was issued with the effective date of 3-13-24. During my visit today, staff/child ratios were observed in compliance with Child Care Rule .0713(a.) I asked Ms. Hilliard if there had been any issues with staffing and any periods of non compliance with staff/child ratios and Ms. Hilliard stated that she is not aware of any and they have extra staff on site when there are staff absences. This allegation is unsubstantiated. Allegation #2 - There is a concern of inadequate supervision. During my visit, no lapses of supervision were observed but Ms. Hilliard stated that a co-teacher for the two year old classroom reported to Administration that there had been an incident in which a staff member who was covering the two year old classroom during naptime did fall asleep as discovered when the staff member was coming back into the classroom. The date of this incident could not be recalled by Ms. Hilliard. Ms. Hilliard stated the staff member was awakened and their employment was terminated. This allegation is substantiated based on the incident which occurred in the two year old classroom during nap time. Ms. Hilliard stated that procedures are in place for staff to work on classroom paperwork to assist with this incident not occurring again. One violation of child care requirements during supervision were cited today. I will be making another visit in the near future to monitor supervision. A corrective action letter stating how the violation has been corrected and what measures have been put into place to avoid future occurrences is due to me no later than June 19, 2024. Violation Number Comment Rule 303 Children were not adequately supervised at all times. An incident ocurred in which a staff member who was covering the two year old classroom during nap time was discovered sleeping when a co-teacher arrived back in the classroom. .1801(a)(1-5) During today's visit we verbally discussed that keeping some of the lights on in the classroom during nap time so that staff will not be sitting in a darker room. Extra staff in the building could also go in and check on staff during nap times to allow staff to get up and move around and take stretch breaks as needed. As stated in the Employee Handbook, staff are expected to work on lesson plans, daily reports and contact parents if needed during this time. Additionally, we discussed that the owners are opening a 3rd facility in Spring Hope, NC in Nash County. We discussed staffing in regards to Administration and Ms. Hilliard stated that they do have a staff member in place to fill the Director position and that their coverage at both of the Little Sprouts Academy sites in Wake County would not be jeopardized. 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. . Please feel free to call me with questions. Kim Wimberly PO Box 609 Knightdale, NC 27545 919-819-9387 Kim.Wimberly@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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0902 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY Facility ID: 92003835 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/11/2024 Number Present: 129 Completed Date: 3/11/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 85 Time In: 12:45 PM Time Out: 02:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor child care requirements during an annual compliance follow up visit. Today’s visit was conducted with Jamie Thieman, Owner/Administrator. Upon arrival to the center today, the children were observed having nap/quiet time. The Infants were being fed, changed and having tummy time. I did observe that there was one Infant drinking a bottle in a swing. As we discussed, when children are eating, they must be either held or placed in an approved feeding device. A swing is not an approved feeding device. This is a violation of child care requirements. Staff/child ratios were monitored and I did observe that two classrooms were merged into one classroom for today due to new furnishings being put together by a representative from Smart Start who was working in the 3 / 4 year old classroom. The 3 / 4 year old and 4 /5 year old classrooms were merged together into space #10. There were six (6) three year olds, fourteen(14) four year olds and five (5) five year olds present with 2 teachers. As we discussed, ratios for the youngest in care must be maintained with grouping multi age children together. In this scenario, the ratio is 1:10. This is a violation of child care requirements regarding staff/child ratios. This is a repeat violation which was also observed out of compliance in a different classroom on 3-7-24. Ms. Thieman discussed with me that she is having difficulty with staff “callouts” and being able to maintain enhanced staff/child ratios as required in Child Care Rule .2818 (b.) We discussed today that Ms. Thieman may want to reduce from 4 to 3 STARS and meet minimum staff/child ratios and group size until staffing can produce more stability. I explained that in order for this to be considered, I would need a signed letter requesting the drop in STARS and to meet minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes. The following violations regarding staff/child ratios and Infant care pertaining to feeding were observed today and must be corrected. A corrective action letter stating how each violation is corrected is due to me no later than March 25, 2024 and can be mailed or e-mailed to me at the address at the bottom of this report. Another follow up visit will be made in the near future to monitor staff/child ratios are being maintained. Violation Number Comment Rule 530 Each infant was not held for bottle feeding until he/she can hold his own bottle. One Infant was observed sitting in a swing with a sippy cup drinking. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. I observed six(6) three year olds, fourteen (14) four year olds and five (5) five year olds combined together in one classroom with two staff. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 Technical Assistance: *Technical assistance was also provided today regarding the volume of the radio in two of the classrooms. The volume was very loud today and in one classroom, the station was going in and out and the static noise was overbearing the actual music. Peaceful music is a great technique for nap/quiet time but overbearing loud music does not set a peaceful environment for the children. If you have to get right in a staff member’s ear for discussion, the music is too loud. *Based on two consecutive visits of violations of staff/child ratios, I suggest you place a pause on enrollment of new children until staffing can be maintained more consistently so as to promote continuity of care of children. Please feel free to call me with any questions. Kim Wimberly PO Box 609 Knightdale, NC 27545 919-819-9387 Kim.Wimberly@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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: ratio. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY Facility ID: 92003835 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/11/2024 Number Present: 129 Completed Date: 3/11/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 85 Time In: 12:45 PM Time Out: 02:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Compliance Follow-Up Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to monitor child care requirements during an annual compliance follow up visit. Today’s visit was conducted with Jamie Thieman, Owner/Administrator. Upon arrival to the center today, the children were observed having nap/quiet time. The Infants were being fed, changed and having tummy time. I did observe that there was one Infant drinking a bottle in a swing. As we discussed, when children are eating, they must be either held or placed in an approved feeding device. A swing is not an approved feeding device. This is a violation of child care requirements. Staff/child ratios were monitored and I did observe that two classrooms were merged into one classroom for today due to new furnishings being put together by a representative from Smart Start who was working in the 3 / 4 year old classroom. The 3 / 4 year old and 4 /5 year old classrooms were merged together into space #10. There were six (6) three year olds, fourteen(14) four year olds and five (5) five year olds present with 2 teachers. As we discussed, ratios for the youngest in care must be maintained with grouping multi age children together. In this scenario, the ratio is 1:10. This is a violation of child care requirements regarding staff/child ratios. This is a repeat violation which was also observed out of compliance in a different classroom on 3-7-24. Ms. Thieman discussed with me that she is having difficulty with staff “callouts” and being able to maintain enhanced staff/child ratios as required in Child Care Rule .2818 (b.) We discussed today that Ms. Thieman may want to reduce from 4 to 3 STARS and meet minimum staff/child ratios and group size until staffing can produce more stability. I explained that in order for this to be considered, I would need a signed letter requesting the drop in STARS and to meet minimum staff/child ratios and group sizes. The following violations regarding staff/child ratios and Infant care pertaining to feeding were observed today and must be corrected. A corrective action letter stating how each violation is corrected is due to me no later than March 25, 2024 and can be mailed or e-mailed to me at the address at the bottom of this report. Another follow up visit will be made in the near future to monitor staff/child ratios are being maintained. Violation Number Comment Rule 530 Each infant was not held for bottle feeding until he/she can hold his own bottle. One Infant was observed sitting in a swing with a sippy cup drinking. 10A NCAC 09 .0902(b) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. I observed six(6) three year olds, fourteen (14) four year olds and five (5) five year olds combined together in one classroom with two staff. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 Technical Assistance: *Technical assistance was also provided today regarding the volume of the radio in two of the classrooms. The volume was very loud today and in one classroom, the station was going in and out and the static noise was overbearing the actual music. Peaceful music is a great technique for nap/quiet time but overbearing loud music does not set a peaceful environment for the children. If you have to get right in a staff member’s ear for discussion, the music is too loud. *Based on two consecutive visits of violations of staff/child ratios, I suggest you place a pause on enrollment of new children until staffing can be maintained more consistently so as to promote continuity of care of children. Please feel free to call me with any questions. Kim Wimberly PO Box 609 Knightdale, NC 27545 919-819-9387 Kim.Wimberly@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 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY Facility ID: 92003835 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/7/2024 Number Present: 70 Completed Date: 3/7/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 02:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to inspect the facility for compliance with child care requirements during your annual compliance visit. The last annual compliance was conducted on 3-13-23. The center currently operates with a 4 STAR rated license. The center is approved for 129 children ages 0-12. My visit was conducted with Shaniqua Marrow, Administrator. During today’s visit an assessment of Child Care Requirements was conducted, inspecting all space used by children. Limited monitoring was done inside the classrooms due to a large number of COVID cases at the facility with the most recent diagnosis this morning. Ms. Marrow stated she is very short staffed and staff have been shifted a bit in different classrooms due to staff absence with sickness. Upon arrival to the program today, the children were observed participating in various activities and some were outside playing. The Infants were being fed, changed and having tummy time. Sleeping baby checks were monitored for all Infants age 0-12 months and were observed to be in compliance. The following concerns were observed as I walked through the center. 1. There were two rows of three high chairs stacked on top of each other in the Infant Room. When the Infants begin to crawl around and pull up, this is a safety concern to the children. 2. In the 3’s Room, the sink was missing from the Dramatic Play area. 3. In the 4/5 year old classroom, the sink was missing from the Dramatic Play area. I also observed cots stacked on top of each other with blankets on top of the cots. In order to maintain sanitary conditions, the blankets should be stored in cubbies so when the cots are stacked, the blanket does not touch the bottom of the cot that is stacked on top of it. I also observed the toilet area is in need of a good deep cleaning. I observed black dirt in the caulking between tile floor and the baseboards need to be cleaned. The toilet area also has a urine smell which could mean the base of the toilet needs to be cleaned. There were no paper towels in the toilet area for children to use after handwashing. Lastly, when the teacher is reading books to the children or having special activities in the part of the room where the cots are, I suggest positioning themselves so that both areas of the classroom can be viewed so supervision is not compromised. 4. In the Younger Tods room, I observed end of lunch and transition to next activity and it is suggested that the schedule for this class be updated. While I was observing the classroom, both teachers were cleaning up lunch dishes, attempting to wash hands and clean tables. Four children were crying. One child was observed falling asleep on the floor. One child went and ate off a plate of the last child that was at the table finishing lunch and this same child was also observed picking food off of the floor and eating it. Milk had spilled across one table and a child was playing in it. Some children did walk away from the table without washing hands before transitioning to play with toys. Staff were observed cleaning tables with a soapy solution but did not complete the disinfecting process. I observed a staff change a child’s diaper and wash the child’s hands with a wipe instead of using soap and water at the sink. Please remind staff that as long as a child can hold their head up, hands must be washed with soap and water at the sink. With the age of this classroom, all children must be washing their hands with soap and water at the sink. This same staff member did also did not wash their hands after returning the child to the play area before changing the next child’s diaper. One staff member attempted to get the children to the carpet area for a story time but the children were fussy and it appeared were ready for naps. Please help staff understand that daily schedules can be modified on days like today when lunch was late and the children were tired. For outside time, the children play in a fenced area. The following items were observed out of compliance on the outdoor playground. 1. Upon arrival to the outdoor play area, I observed one staff member with eleven children who are three years old. Due to your enhanced standards for staff/child ratios, this is a violation of child care requirements. One additional teacher did come back outside as I was leaving the outdoor playground. Please remind staff that staff/child ratios must be met 100% of the time. 2. On the bottom of the chain link fence on the panels that face the grassy field area, I observed the fence loose and bent and over time, will become loose enough for a child to get out under the bottom. As we discussed, this section must be repaired and the fence must be secured tight at the bottom. Staff and training worksheets were completed by submitted to me during today's visit but all staff were not listed on these sheets. All staff files were monitored for compliance during my visit today. One staff member did not have a Staff Medical Report on file which contained all the required information. Six staff did not have documentation on file that the EMC Plan and EPR Plan were reviewed on an annual basis. Ten children's files were monitored for compliance today. I inspected the facilities posted information such as the license, EMC plan, emergency telephone numbers, staff/ratio sheets, allergy lists, etc. and all were observed to be in compliance. Fire drills, EPR drills and outdoor playground inspections were all current and on file. Fire and sanitation inspections were also current and on file. The EPR Plan was also current and on file. *****Violations: Eleven (11) violations of safety, staff files, staff/child ratios, sanitation and spread of germs prevention were observed during my visit today. A corrective action letter stating how each violation was corrected is due to me no later than March 21, 2023 and can be e-mailed or mailed to me at the contact information at the end of this report. Please remember to address each violation individually and indicate your center name and ID number. I will also be coming back for a return visit to verify that staff/child ratios are being maintained. Violation Number Comment Rule 404 All staff did not wash their hands thoroughly after diapering each child. A staff member did not wash their hands after diapering a child before diapering another child. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(a) 405 A child's hands were not washed after each diaper change. One child did not wash their hands with soap and water after a diaper change. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c)(2) 604 Lavatories were not kept clean, in good repair and kept free of storage. The toilet area in the 4/5 year old classroom had dirt and grime on the tile grout and around the baseboards. There was also a urine smell in the bathroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(a) 619 Diaper changing surfaces were not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after each use. All diapering procedures were not followed after diapering a child. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Plastic sinks were missing from the Dramatic Play area in two different classrooms. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The fence on the outside playground is in need of repair. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 825 Before staff members walked children off premises for play or outings, the center did not obtain written permission from the parent of each child. .1005(b)(3) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. Five staff did not have proof that the EMC plan was reviewed on an annual basis. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 875 The center did not follow all procedures to prevent the spread of communicable diseases described in 15A NCAC 18A .2800. A child was observed eating off of another child's plate as well as eating food off of the floor. 10A NCAC 09 .0804(b)(1) 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 staff member did not have a Staff Medical Report on file that contained all the required information. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. The three year old classroom was outside on the playground with one staff member and eleven three year old children. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. Five staff did not have proof that the EPR plan was reviewed on an annual basis. .0607(f) REMINDERS: *Your last Fire Inspection was 3-13-23. As we discussed today, please send me a copy once it has been completed. *Keep monitoring your staff files. There are some staff who are coming due with their 5 year qualifications. Contact me with questions at: Kim.Wimberly@dhhs.nc.gov PO BOX 609 Knightdale, NC 27545 919-819-9387 http://ncchildcaresearch.dhhs.state.nc.us If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0701 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY Facility ID: 92003835 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/7/2024 Number Present: 70 Completed Date: 3/7/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 02:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to inspect the facility for compliance with child care requirements during your annual compliance visit. The last annual compliance was conducted on 3-13-23. The center currently operates with a 4 STAR rated license. The center is approved for 129 children ages 0-12. My visit was conducted with Shaniqua Marrow, Administrator. During today’s visit an assessment of Child Care Requirements was conducted, inspecting all space used by children. Limited monitoring was done inside the classrooms due to a large number of COVID cases at the facility with the most recent diagnosis this morning. Ms. Marrow stated she is very short staffed and staff have been shifted a bit in different classrooms due to staff absence with sickness. Upon arrival to the program today, the children were observed participating in various activities and some were outside playing. The Infants were being fed, changed and having tummy time. Sleeping baby checks were monitored for all Infants age 0-12 months and were observed to be in compliance. The following concerns were observed as I walked through the center. 1. There were two rows of three high chairs stacked on top of each other in the Infant Room. When the Infants begin to crawl around and pull up, this is a safety concern to the children. 2. In the 3’s Room, the sink was missing from the Dramatic Play area. 3. In the 4/5 year old classroom, the sink was missing from the Dramatic Play area. I also observed cots stacked on top of each other with blankets on top of the cots. In order to maintain sanitary conditions, the blankets should be stored in cubbies so when the cots are stacked, the blanket does not touch the bottom of the cot that is stacked on top of it. I also observed the toilet area is in need of a good deep cleaning. I observed black dirt in the caulking between tile floor and the baseboards need to be cleaned. The toilet area also has a urine smell which could mean the base of the toilet needs to be cleaned. There were no paper towels in the toilet area for children to use after handwashing. Lastly, when the teacher is reading books to the children or having special activities in the part of the room where the cots are, I suggest positioning themselves so that both areas of the classroom can be viewed so supervision is not compromised. 4. In the Younger Tods room, I observed end of lunch and transition to next activity and it is suggested that the schedule for this class be updated. While I was observing the classroom, both teachers were cleaning up lunch dishes, attempting to wash hands and clean tables. Four children were crying. One child was observed falling asleep on the floor. One child went and ate off a plate of the last child that was at the table finishing lunch and this same child was also observed picking food off of the floor and eating it. Milk had spilled across one table and a child was playing in it. Some children did walk away from the table without washing hands before transitioning to play with toys. Staff were observed cleaning tables with a soapy solution but did not complete the disinfecting process. I observed a staff change a child’s diaper and wash the child’s hands with a wipe instead of using soap and water at the sink. Please remind staff that as long as a child can hold their head up, hands must be washed with soap and water at the sink. With the age of this classroom, all children must be washing their hands with soap and water at the sink. This same staff member did also did not wash their hands after returning the child to the play area before changing the next child’s diaper. One staff member attempted to get the children to the carpet area for a story time but the children were fussy and it appeared were ready for naps. Please help staff understand that daily schedules can be modified on days like today when lunch was late and the children were tired. For outside time, the children play in a fenced area. The following items were observed out of compliance on the outdoor playground. 1. Upon arrival to the outdoor play area, I observed one staff member with eleven children who are three years old. Due to your enhanced standards for staff/child ratios, this is a violation of child care requirements. One additional teacher did come back outside as I was leaving the outdoor playground. Please remind staff that staff/child ratios must be met 100% of the time. 2. On the bottom of the chain link fence on the panels that face the grassy field area, I observed the fence loose and bent and over time, will become loose enough for a child to get out under the bottom. As we discussed, this section must be repaired and the fence must be secured tight at the bottom. Staff and training worksheets were completed by submitted to me during today's visit but all staff were not listed on these sheets. All staff files were monitored for compliance during my visit today. One staff member did not have a Staff Medical Report on file which contained all the required information. Six staff did not have documentation on file that the EMC Plan and EPR Plan were reviewed on an annual basis. Ten children's files were monitored for compliance today. I inspected the facilities posted information such as the license, EMC plan, emergency telephone numbers, staff/ratio sheets, allergy lists, etc. and all were observed to be in compliance. Fire drills, EPR drills and outdoor playground inspections were all current and on file. Fire and sanitation inspections were also current and on file. The EPR Plan was also current and on file. *****Violations: Eleven (11) violations of safety, staff files, staff/child ratios, sanitation and spread of germs prevention were observed during my visit today. A corrective action letter stating how each violation was corrected is due to me no later than March 21, 2023 and can be e-mailed or mailed to me at the contact information at the end of this report. Please remember to address each violation individually and indicate your center name and ID number. I will also be coming back for a return visit to verify that staff/child ratios are being maintained. Violation Number Comment Rule 404 All staff did not wash their hands thoroughly after diapering each child. A staff member did not wash their hands after diapering a child before diapering another child. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(a) 405 A child's hands were not washed after each diaper change. One child did not wash their hands with soap and water after a diaper change. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c)(2) 604 Lavatories were not kept clean, in good repair and kept free of storage. The toilet area in the 4/5 year old classroom had dirt and grime on the tile grout and around the baseboards. There was also a urine smell in the bathroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(a) 619 Diaper changing surfaces were not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after each use. All diapering procedures were not followed after diapering a child. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Plastic sinks were missing from the Dramatic Play area in two different classrooms. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The fence on the outside playground is in need of repair. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 825 Before staff members walked children off premises for play or outings, the center did not obtain written permission from the parent of each child. .1005(b)(3) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. Five staff did not have proof that the EMC plan was reviewed on an annual basis. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 875 The center did not follow all procedures to prevent the spread of communicable diseases described in 15A NCAC 18A .2800. A child was observed eating off of another child's plate as well as eating food off of the floor. 10A NCAC 09 .0804(b)(1) 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 staff member did not have a Staff Medical Report on file that contained all the required information. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. The three year old classroom was outside on the playground with one staff member and eleven three year old children. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. Five staff did not have proof that the EPR plan was reviewed on an annual basis. .0607(f) REMINDERS: *Your last Fire Inspection was 3-13-23. As we discussed today, please send me a copy once it has been completed. *Keep monitoring your staff files. There are some staff who are coming due with their 5 year qualifications. Contact me with questions at: Kim.Wimberly@dhhs.nc.gov PO BOX 609 Knightdale, NC 27545 919-819-9387 http://ncchildcaresearch.dhhs.state.nc.us 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 .0802 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY Facility ID: 92003835 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/7/2024 Number Present: 70 Completed Date: 3/7/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 02:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to inspect the facility for compliance with child care requirements during your annual compliance visit. The last annual compliance was conducted on 3-13-23. The center currently operates with a 4 STAR rated license. The center is approved for 129 children ages 0-12. My visit was conducted with Shaniqua Marrow, Administrator. During today’s visit an assessment of Child Care Requirements was conducted, inspecting all space used by children. Limited monitoring was done inside the classrooms due to a large number of COVID cases at the facility with the most recent diagnosis this morning. Ms. Marrow stated she is very short staffed and staff have been shifted a bit in different classrooms due to staff absence with sickness. Upon arrival to the program today, the children were observed participating in various activities and some were outside playing. The Infants were being fed, changed and having tummy time. Sleeping baby checks were monitored for all Infants age 0-12 months and were observed to be in compliance. The following concerns were observed as I walked through the center. 1. There were two rows of three high chairs stacked on top of each other in the Infant Room. When the Infants begin to crawl around and pull up, this is a safety concern to the children. 2. In the 3’s Room, the sink was missing from the Dramatic Play area. 3. In the 4/5 year old classroom, the sink was missing from the Dramatic Play area. I also observed cots stacked on top of each other with blankets on top of the cots. In order to maintain sanitary conditions, the blankets should be stored in cubbies so when the cots are stacked, the blanket does not touch the bottom of the cot that is stacked on top of it. I also observed the toilet area is in need of a good deep cleaning. I observed black dirt in the caulking between tile floor and the baseboards need to be cleaned. The toilet area also has a urine smell which could mean the base of the toilet needs to be cleaned. There were no paper towels in the toilet area for children to use after handwashing. Lastly, when the teacher is reading books to the children or having special activities in the part of the room where the cots are, I suggest positioning themselves so that both areas of the classroom can be viewed so supervision is not compromised. 4. In the Younger Tods room, I observed end of lunch and transition to next activity and it is suggested that the schedule for this class be updated. While I was observing the classroom, both teachers were cleaning up lunch dishes, attempting to wash hands and clean tables. Four children were crying. One child was observed falling asleep on the floor. One child went and ate off a plate of the last child that was at the table finishing lunch and this same child was also observed picking food off of the floor and eating it. Milk had spilled across one table and a child was playing in it. Some children did walk away from the table without washing hands before transitioning to play with toys. Staff were observed cleaning tables with a soapy solution but did not complete the disinfecting process. I observed a staff change a child’s diaper and wash the child’s hands with a wipe instead of using soap and water at the sink. Please remind staff that as long as a child can hold their head up, hands must be washed with soap and water at the sink. With the age of this classroom, all children must be washing their hands with soap and water at the sink. This same staff member did also did not wash their hands after returning the child to the play area before changing the next child’s diaper. One staff member attempted to get the children to the carpet area for a story time but the children were fussy and it appeared were ready for naps. Please help staff understand that daily schedules can be modified on days like today when lunch was late and the children were tired. For outside time, the children play in a fenced area. The following items were observed out of compliance on the outdoor playground. 1. Upon arrival to the outdoor play area, I observed one staff member with eleven children who are three years old. Due to your enhanced standards for staff/child ratios, this is a violation of child care requirements. One additional teacher did come back outside as I was leaving the outdoor playground. Please remind staff that staff/child ratios must be met 100% of the time. 2. On the bottom of the chain link fence on the panels that face the grassy field area, I observed the fence loose and bent and over time, will become loose enough for a child to get out under the bottom. As we discussed, this section must be repaired and the fence must be secured tight at the bottom. Staff and training worksheets were completed by submitted to me during today's visit but all staff were not listed on these sheets. All staff files were monitored for compliance during my visit today. One staff member did not have a Staff Medical Report on file which contained all the required information. Six staff did not have documentation on file that the EMC Plan and EPR Plan were reviewed on an annual basis. Ten children's files were monitored for compliance today. I inspected the facilities posted information such as the license, EMC plan, emergency telephone numbers, staff/ratio sheets, allergy lists, etc. and all were observed to be in compliance. Fire drills, EPR drills and outdoor playground inspections were all current and on file. Fire and sanitation inspections were also current and on file. The EPR Plan was also current and on file. *****Violations: Eleven (11) violations of safety, staff files, staff/child ratios, sanitation and spread of germs prevention were observed during my visit today. A corrective action letter stating how each violation was corrected is due to me no later than March 21, 2023 and can be e-mailed or mailed to me at the contact information at the end of this report. Please remember to address each violation individually and indicate your center name and ID number. I will also be coming back for a return visit to verify that staff/child ratios are being maintained. Violation Number Comment Rule 404 All staff did not wash their hands thoroughly after diapering each child. A staff member did not wash their hands after diapering a child before diapering another child. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(a) 405 A child's hands were not washed after each diaper change. One child did not wash their hands with soap and water after a diaper change. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c)(2) 604 Lavatories were not kept clean, in good repair and kept free of storage. The toilet area in the 4/5 year old classroom had dirt and grime on the tile grout and around the baseboards. There was also a urine smell in the bathroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(a) 619 Diaper changing surfaces were not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after each use. All diapering procedures were not followed after diapering a child. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Plastic sinks were missing from the Dramatic Play area in two different classrooms. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The fence on the outside playground is in need of repair. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 825 Before staff members walked children off premises for play or outings, the center did not obtain written permission from the parent of each child. .1005(b)(3) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. Five staff did not have proof that the EMC plan was reviewed on an annual basis. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 875 The center did not follow all procedures to prevent the spread of communicable diseases described in 15A NCAC 18A .2800. A child was observed eating off of another child's plate as well as eating food off of the floor. 10A NCAC 09 .0804(b)(1) 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 staff member did not have a Staff Medical Report on file that contained all the required information. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. The three year old classroom was outside on the playground with one staff member and eleven three year old children. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. Five staff did not have proof that the EPR plan was reviewed on an annual basis. .0607(f) REMINDERS: *Your last Fire Inspection was 3-13-23. As we discussed today, please send me a copy once it has been completed. *Keep monitoring your staff files. There are some staff who are coming due with their 5 year qualifications. Contact me with questions at: Kim.Wimberly@dhhs.nc.gov PO BOX 609 Knightdale, NC 27545 919-819-9387 http://ncchildcaresearch.dhhs.state.nc.us 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 .0804 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY Facility ID: 92003835 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/7/2024 Number Present: 70 Completed Date: 3/7/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 02:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to inspect the facility for compliance with child care requirements during your annual compliance visit. The last annual compliance was conducted on 3-13-23. The center currently operates with a 4 STAR rated license. The center is approved for 129 children ages 0-12. My visit was conducted with Shaniqua Marrow, Administrator. During today’s visit an assessment of Child Care Requirements was conducted, inspecting all space used by children. Limited monitoring was done inside the classrooms due to a large number of COVID cases at the facility with the most recent diagnosis this morning. Ms. Marrow stated she is very short staffed and staff have been shifted a bit in different classrooms due to staff absence with sickness. Upon arrival to the program today, the children were observed participating in various activities and some were outside playing. The Infants were being fed, changed and having tummy time. Sleeping baby checks were monitored for all Infants age 0-12 months and were observed to be in compliance. The following concerns were observed as I walked through the center. 1. There were two rows of three high chairs stacked on top of each other in the Infant Room. When the Infants begin to crawl around and pull up, this is a safety concern to the children. 2. In the 3’s Room, the sink was missing from the Dramatic Play area. 3. In the 4/5 year old classroom, the sink was missing from the Dramatic Play area. I also observed cots stacked on top of each other with blankets on top of the cots. In order to maintain sanitary conditions, the blankets should be stored in cubbies so when the cots are stacked, the blanket does not touch the bottom of the cot that is stacked on top of it. I also observed the toilet area is in need of a good deep cleaning. I observed black dirt in the caulking between tile floor and the baseboards need to be cleaned. The toilet area also has a urine smell which could mean the base of the toilet needs to be cleaned. There were no paper towels in the toilet area for children to use after handwashing. Lastly, when the teacher is reading books to the children or having special activities in the part of the room where the cots are, I suggest positioning themselves so that both areas of the classroom can be viewed so supervision is not compromised. 4. In the Younger Tods room, I observed end of lunch and transition to next activity and it is suggested that the schedule for this class be updated. While I was observing the classroom, both teachers were cleaning up lunch dishes, attempting to wash hands and clean tables. Four children were crying. One child was observed falling asleep on the floor. One child went and ate off a plate of the last child that was at the table finishing lunch and this same child was also observed picking food off of the floor and eating it. Milk had spilled across one table and a child was playing in it. Some children did walk away from the table without washing hands before transitioning to play with toys. Staff were observed cleaning tables with a soapy solution but did not complete the disinfecting process. I observed a staff change a child’s diaper and wash the child’s hands with a wipe instead of using soap and water at the sink. Please remind staff that as long as a child can hold their head up, hands must be washed with soap and water at the sink. With the age of this classroom, all children must be washing their hands with soap and water at the sink. This same staff member did also did not wash their hands after returning the child to the play area before changing the next child’s diaper. One staff member attempted to get the children to the carpet area for a story time but the children were fussy and it appeared were ready for naps. Please help staff understand that daily schedules can be modified on days like today when lunch was late and the children were tired. For outside time, the children play in a fenced area. The following items were observed out of compliance on the outdoor playground. 1. Upon arrival to the outdoor play area, I observed one staff member with eleven children who are three years old. Due to your enhanced standards for staff/child ratios, this is a violation of child care requirements. One additional teacher did come back outside as I was leaving the outdoor playground. Please remind staff that staff/child ratios must be met 100% of the time. 2. On the bottom of the chain link fence on the panels that face the grassy field area, I observed the fence loose and bent and over time, will become loose enough for a child to get out under the bottom. As we discussed, this section must be repaired and the fence must be secured tight at the bottom. Staff and training worksheets were completed by submitted to me during today's visit but all staff were not listed on these sheets. All staff files were monitored for compliance during my visit today. One staff member did not have a Staff Medical Report on file which contained all the required information. Six staff did not have documentation on file that the EMC Plan and EPR Plan were reviewed on an annual basis. Ten children's files were monitored for compliance today. I inspected the facilities posted information such as the license, EMC plan, emergency telephone numbers, staff/ratio sheets, allergy lists, etc. and all were observed to be in compliance. Fire drills, EPR drills and outdoor playground inspections were all current and on file. Fire and sanitation inspections were also current and on file. The EPR Plan was also current and on file. *****Violations: Eleven (11) violations of safety, staff files, staff/child ratios, sanitation and spread of germs prevention were observed during my visit today. A corrective action letter stating how each violation was corrected is due to me no later than March 21, 2023 and can be e-mailed or mailed to me at the contact information at the end of this report. Please remember to address each violation individually and indicate your center name and ID number. I will also be coming back for a return visit to verify that staff/child ratios are being maintained. Violation Number Comment Rule 404 All staff did not wash their hands thoroughly after diapering each child. A staff member did not wash their hands after diapering a child before diapering another child. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(a) 405 A child's hands were not washed after each diaper change. One child did not wash their hands with soap and water after a diaper change. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c)(2) 604 Lavatories were not kept clean, in good repair and kept free of storage. The toilet area in the 4/5 year old classroom had dirt and grime on the tile grout and around the baseboards. There was also a urine smell in the bathroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(a) 619 Diaper changing surfaces were not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after each use. All diapering procedures were not followed after diapering a child. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Plastic sinks were missing from the Dramatic Play area in two different classrooms. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The fence on the outside playground is in need of repair. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 825 Before staff members walked children off premises for play or outings, the center did not obtain written permission from the parent of each child. .1005(b)(3) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. Five staff did not have proof that the EMC plan was reviewed on an annual basis. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 875 The center did not follow all procedures to prevent the spread of communicable diseases described in 15A NCAC 18A .2800. A child was observed eating off of another child's plate as well as eating food off of the floor. 10A NCAC 09 .0804(b)(1) 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 staff member did not have a Staff Medical Report on file that contained all the required information. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. The three year old classroom was outside on the playground with one staff member and eleven three year old children. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. Five staff did not have proof that the EPR plan was reviewed on an annual basis. .0607(f) REMINDERS: *Your last Fire Inspection was 3-13-23. As we discussed today, please send me a copy once it has been completed. *Keep monitoring your staff files. There are some staff who are coming due with their 5 year qualifications. Contact me with questions at: Kim.Wimberly@dhhs.nc.gov PO BOX 609 Knightdale, NC 27545 919-819-9387 http://ncchildcaresearch.dhhs.state.nc.us 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 .2818 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY Facility ID: 92003835 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/7/2024 Number Present: 70 Completed Date: 3/7/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 02:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to inspect the facility for compliance with child care requirements during your annual compliance visit. The last annual compliance was conducted on 3-13-23. The center currently operates with a 4 STAR rated license. The center is approved for 129 children ages 0-12. My visit was conducted with Shaniqua Marrow, Administrator. During today’s visit an assessment of Child Care Requirements was conducted, inspecting all space used by children. Limited monitoring was done inside the classrooms due to a large number of COVID cases at the facility with the most recent diagnosis this morning. Ms. Marrow stated she is very short staffed and staff have been shifted a bit in different classrooms due to staff absence with sickness. Upon arrival to the program today, the children were observed participating in various activities and some were outside playing. The Infants were being fed, changed and having tummy time. Sleeping baby checks were monitored for all Infants age 0-12 months and were observed to be in compliance. The following concerns were observed as I walked through the center. 1. There were two rows of three high chairs stacked on top of each other in the Infant Room. When the Infants begin to crawl around and pull up, this is a safety concern to the children. 2. In the 3’s Room, the sink was missing from the Dramatic Play area. 3. In the 4/5 year old classroom, the sink was missing from the Dramatic Play area. I also observed cots stacked on top of each other with blankets on top of the cots. In order to maintain sanitary conditions, the blankets should be stored in cubbies so when the cots are stacked, the blanket does not touch the bottom of the cot that is stacked on top of it. I also observed the toilet area is in need of a good deep cleaning. I observed black dirt in the caulking between tile floor and the baseboards need to be cleaned. The toilet area also has a urine smell which could mean the base of the toilet needs to be cleaned. There were no paper towels in the toilet area for children to use after handwashing. Lastly, when the teacher is reading books to the children or having special activities in the part of the room where the cots are, I suggest positioning themselves so that both areas of the classroom can be viewed so supervision is not compromised. 4. In the Younger Tods room, I observed end of lunch and transition to next activity and it is suggested that the schedule for this class be updated. While I was observing the classroom, both teachers were cleaning up lunch dishes, attempting to wash hands and clean tables. Four children were crying. One child was observed falling asleep on the floor. One child went and ate off a plate of the last child that was at the table finishing lunch and this same child was also observed picking food off of the floor and eating it. Milk had spilled across one table and a child was playing in it. Some children did walk away from the table without washing hands before transitioning to play with toys. Staff were observed cleaning tables with a soapy solution but did not complete the disinfecting process. I observed a staff change a child’s diaper and wash the child’s hands with a wipe instead of using soap and water at the sink. Please remind staff that as long as a child can hold their head up, hands must be washed with soap and water at the sink. With the age of this classroom, all children must be washing their hands with soap and water at the sink. This same staff member did also did not wash their hands after returning the child to the play area before changing the next child’s diaper. One staff member attempted to get the children to the carpet area for a story time but the children were fussy and it appeared were ready for naps. Please help staff understand that daily schedules can be modified on days like today when lunch was late and the children were tired. For outside time, the children play in a fenced area. The following items were observed out of compliance on the outdoor playground. 1. Upon arrival to the outdoor play area, I observed one staff member with eleven children who are three years old. Due to your enhanced standards for staff/child ratios, this is a violation of child care requirements. One additional teacher did come back outside as I was leaving the outdoor playground. Please remind staff that staff/child ratios must be met 100% of the time. 2. On the bottom of the chain link fence on the panels that face the grassy field area, I observed the fence loose and bent and over time, will become loose enough for a child to get out under the bottom. As we discussed, this section must be repaired and the fence must be secured tight at the bottom. Staff and training worksheets were completed by submitted to me during today's visit but all staff were not listed on these sheets. All staff files were monitored for compliance during my visit today. One staff member did not have a Staff Medical Report on file which contained all the required information. Six staff did not have documentation on file that the EMC Plan and EPR Plan were reviewed on an annual basis. Ten children's files were monitored for compliance today. I inspected the facilities posted information such as the license, EMC plan, emergency telephone numbers, staff/ratio sheets, allergy lists, etc. and all were observed to be in compliance. Fire drills, EPR drills and outdoor playground inspections were all current and on file. Fire and sanitation inspections were also current and on file. The EPR Plan was also current and on file. *****Violations: Eleven (11) violations of safety, staff files, staff/child ratios, sanitation and spread of germs prevention were observed during my visit today. A corrective action letter stating how each violation was corrected is due to me no later than March 21, 2023 and can be e-mailed or mailed to me at the contact information at the end of this report. Please remember to address each violation individually and indicate your center name and ID number. I will also be coming back for a return visit to verify that staff/child ratios are being maintained. Violation Number Comment Rule 404 All staff did not wash their hands thoroughly after diapering each child. A staff member did not wash their hands after diapering a child before diapering another child. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(a) 405 A child's hands were not washed after each diaper change. One child did not wash their hands with soap and water after a diaper change. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c)(2) 604 Lavatories were not kept clean, in good repair and kept free of storage. The toilet area in the 4/5 year old classroom had dirt and grime on the tile grout and around the baseboards. There was also a urine smell in the bathroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(a) 619 Diaper changing surfaces were not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after each use. All diapering procedures were not followed after diapering a child. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Plastic sinks were missing from the Dramatic Play area in two different classrooms. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The fence on the outside playground is in need of repair. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 825 Before staff members walked children off premises for play or outings, the center did not obtain written permission from the parent of each child. .1005(b)(3) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. Five staff did not have proof that the EMC plan was reviewed on an annual basis. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 875 The center did not follow all procedures to prevent the spread of communicable diseases described in 15A NCAC 18A .2800. A child was observed eating off of another child's plate as well as eating food off of the floor. 10A NCAC 09 .0804(b)(1) 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 staff member did not have a Staff Medical Report on file that contained all the required information. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. The three year old classroom was outside on the playground with one staff member and eleven three year old children. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. Five staff did not have proof that the EPR plan was reviewed on an annual basis. .0607(f) REMINDERS: *Your last Fire Inspection was 3-13-23. As we discussed today, please send me a copy once it has been completed. *Keep monitoring your staff files. There are some staff who are coming due with their 5 year qualifications. Contact me with questions at: Kim.Wimberly@dhhs.nc.gov PO BOX 609 Knightdale, NC 27545 919-819-9387 http://ncchildcaresearch.dhhs.state.nc.us If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY Facility ID: 92003835 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 3/7/2024 Number Present: 70 Completed Date: 3/7/2024 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 290 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 02:10 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Annual Comp Full Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today’s unannounced visit was to inspect the facility for compliance with child care requirements during your annual compliance visit. The last annual compliance was conducted on 3-13-23. The center currently operates with a 4 STAR rated license. The center is approved for 129 children ages 0-12. My visit was conducted with Shaniqua Marrow, Administrator. During today’s visit an assessment of Child Care Requirements was conducted, inspecting all space used by children. Limited monitoring was done inside the classrooms due to a large number of COVID cases at the facility with the most recent diagnosis this morning. Ms. Marrow stated she is very short staffed and staff have been shifted a bit in different classrooms due to staff absence with sickness. Upon arrival to the program today, the children were observed participating in various activities and some were outside playing. The Infants were being fed, changed and having tummy time. Sleeping baby checks were monitored for all Infants age 0-12 months and were observed to be in compliance. The following concerns were observed as I walked through the center. 1. There were two rows of three high chairs stacked on top of each other in the Infant Room. When the Infants begin to crawl around and pull up, this is a safety concern to the children. 2. In the 3’s Room, the sink was missing from the Dramatic Play area. 3. In the 4/5 year old classroom, the sink was missing from the Dramatic Play area. I also observed cots stacked on top of each other with blankets on top of the cots. In order to maintain sanitary conditions, the blankets should be stored in cubbies so when the cots are stacked, the blanket does not touch the bottom of the cot that is stacked on top of it. I also observed the toilet area is in need of a good deep cleaning. I observed black dirt in the caulking between tile floor and the baseboards need to be cleaned. The toilet area also has a urine smell which could mean the base of the toilet needs to be cleaned. There were no paper towels in the toilet area for children to use after handwashing. Lastly, when the teacher is reading books to the children or having special activities in the part of the room where the cots are, I suggest positioning themselves so that both areas of the classroom can be viewed so supervision is not compromised. 4. In the Younger Tods room, I observed end of lunch and transition to next activity and it is suggested that the schedule for this class be updated. While I was observing the classroom, both teachers were cleaning up lunch dishes, attempting to wash hands and clean tables. Four children were crying. One child was observed falling asleep on the floor. One child went and ate off a plate of the last child that was at the table finishing lunch and this same child was also observed picking food off of the floor and eating it. Milk had spilled across one table and a child was playing in it. Some children did walk away from the table without washing hands before transitioning to play with toys. Staff were observed cleaning tables with a soapy solution but did not complete the disinfecting process. I observed a staff change a child’s diaper and wash the child’s hands with a wipe instead of using soap and water at the sink. Please remind staff that as long as a child can hold their head up, hands must be washed with soap and water at the sink. With the age of this classroom, all children must be washing their hands with soap and water at the sink. This same staff member did also did not wash their hands after returning the child to the play area before changing the next child’s diaper. One staff member attempted to get the children to the carpet area for a story time but the children were fussy and it appeared were ready for naps. Please help staff understand that daily schedules can be modified on days like today when lunch was late and the children were tired. For outside time, the children play in a fenced area. The following items were observed out of compliance on the outdoor playground. 1. Upon arrival to the outdoor play area, I observed one staff member with eleven children who are three years old. Due to your enhanced standards for staff/child ratios, this is a violation of child care requirements. One additional teacher did come back outside as I was leaving the outdoor playground. Please remind staff that staff/child ratios must be met 100% of the time. 2. On the bottom of the chain link fence on the panels that face the grassy field area, I observed the fence loose and bent and over time, will become loose enough for a child to get out under the bottom. As we discussed, this section must be repaired and the fence must be secured tight at the bottom. Staff and training worksheets were completed by submitted to me during today's visit but all staff were not listed on these sheets. All staff files were monitored for compliance during my visit today. One staff member did not have a Staff Medical Report on file which contained all the required information. Six staff did not have documentation on file that the EMC Plan and EPR Plan were reviewed on an annual basis. Ten children's files were monitored for compliance today. I inspected the facilities posted information such as the license, EMC plan, emergency telephone numbers, staff/ratio sheets, allergy lists, etc. and all were observed to be in compliance. Fire drills, EPR drills and outdoor playground inspections were all current and on file. Fire and sanitation inspections were also current and on file. The EPR Plan was also current and on file. *****Violations: Eleven (11) violations of safety, staff files, staff/child ratios, sanitation and spread of germs prevention were observed during my visit today. A corrective action letter stating how each violation was corrected is due to me no later than March 21, 2023 and can be e-mailed or mailed to me at the contact information at the end of this report. Please remember to address each violation individually and indicate your center name and ID number. I will also be coming back for a return visit to verify that staff/child ratios are being maintained. Violation Number Comment Rule 404 All staff did not wash their hands thoroughly after diapering each child. A staff member did not wash their hands after diapering a child before diapering another child. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(a) 405 A child's hands were not washed after each diaper change. One child did not wash their hands with soap and water after a diaper change. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c)(2) 604 Lavatories were not kept clean, in good repair and kept free of storage. The toilet area in the 4/5 year old classroom had dirt and grime on the tile grout and around the baseboards. There was also a urine smell in the bathroom. 15A NCAC 18A .2818(a) 619 Diaper changing surfaces were not cleaned with a detergent solution and disinfected after each use. All diapering procedures were not followed after diapering a child. 15A NCAC 18A .2819(c) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. Plastic sinks were missing from the Dramatic Play area in two different classrooms. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. The fence on the outside playground is in need of repair. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 825 Before staff members walked children off premises for play or outings, the center did not obtain written permission from the parent of each child. .1005(b)(3) 862 The EMC plan was not reviewed with all staff annually and whenever the plan was revised. Five staff did not have proof that the EMC plan was reviewed on an annual basis. 10A NCAC 09 .0802(a) 875 The center did not follow all procedures to prevent the spread of communicable diseases described in 15A NCAC 18A .2800. A child was observed eating off of another child's plate as well as eating food off of the floor. 10A NCAC 09 .0804(b)(1) 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 staff member did not have a Staff Medical Report on file that contained all the required information. 10A NCAC 09 .0701(a) 1756 Enhanced staff/child ratios and group sizes were not met. The three year old classroom was outside on the playground with one staff member and eleven three year old children. 10A NCAC 09 .2818 1825 All staff did not review the center's EPR Plan during orientation and/or on an annual basis with the trained staff. Documentation of the review was not maintained on file. Five staff did not have proof that the EPR plan was reviewed on an annual basis. .0607(f) REMINDERS: *Your last Fire Inspection was 3-13-23. As we discussed today, please send me a copy once it has been completed. *Keep monitoring your staff files. There are some staff who are coming due with their 5 year qualifications. Contact me with questions at: Kim.Wimberly@dhhs.nc.gov PO BOX 609 Knightdale, NC 27545 919-819-9387 http://ncchildcaresearch.dhhs.state.nc.us If the operator fails to correct any documented violations within the established time period, the Division of Child Development and Early Education may deny, suspend, terminate, or revoke any permit to operate (10A NCAC 09 .2000). All information in this report has been reviewed with me today.I understand that it is my responsibility to maintaincompliance with applicable NC Child Care Requirements at all times

10A NCAC 09 .0604 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY Facility ID: 92003835 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: 1023-106L Visit Date: 10/12/2023 Number Present: 76 Completed Date: 10/12/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 120 Time In: 01:30 PM Time Out: 03:30 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Complaint Visit Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of my unannounced visit today was to investigate complaint allegations regarding program records, supervision, and staff/child ratios. Today’s visit was conducted with Jamie Thieman and Elizabeth Hilliard, Owner/Administrators. Shaniqua Marrow, Administrator, was present during part of my visit. During my visit today I observed the indoor space used by the children. I observed the children in the Toddler – Preschool classrooms getting up from nap and preparing for afternoon snack. While walking through the center, I observed 2 box fans being used in the classroom of older toddlers and two-year-olds. One fan was sitting on one of the tables used for activities and eating and the 2nd fan was located on the floor in the diapering area. This is a repeat violation which was cited out of compliance during a Routine Unannounced visit conducted on 8-29-23. The staff member in this classroom stated to me that the fans are only used during nap times, and I reminded the staff member that fans must be made inaccessible to the children (at least 5 feet off of the floor) or covered with a mesh guard. I did not observe a mesh guard on the fans during my visit. Infants were observed being changed, fed, and having tummy time. I monitored staff/child ratios, group sizes, use of space, space capacity, license restrictions, and supervision during my visit. I discussed the allegations with Ms. Thieman and Ms. Hilliard and the findings are below. Allegation #1 - There is a concern related to an injury. An incident report was falsified. Ms. Thieman stated to me that she was verbally told by a staff member on 9-21-23 that there was an incident in which the children were outside on the playground and two children were playing with a Stepping Stone Balance Beam. The stepping stones of this balance beam are connected by rope pieces. On 9-21-23, an “Ouch Report” was completed by the classroom teacher present and shared with the child’s parent at pick up. The victim child’s parent signed the “Ouch Report” on 9-21-23. The staff member told Ms. Thieman that a parent communicated to them that they were upset over what was documented on the “Ouch Report” vs. what the victim child told the parent what happened. On 10-9-23, Ms. Thieman received a text from the victim child’s parent that the child will no longer be attending the program due to the inaccuracy of what incidents occurred on 9-21-23. Ms. Thieman stated to me that she reached out via telephone to the parent to obtain more clarification on the cause of the child’s withdrawal from the program and to hear the parent’s side of this incident. As of today’s visit, Ms. Thieman has not heard from the victim child’s parent. Ms. Hilliard stated that she also reached out to the victim child’s parent through the Remind app that the center uses but also has not heard a response from the parent. Ms. Thieman discussed that the classroom teacher stated to her that the victim child had the stepping stone balance beam wrapped around the victim child from “head to toe.” When center staff questioned the children why this was done, they were told by the children that the victim child was trying to take the balance beam away from them. I viewed the “Ouch Report” during my visit today and the incident was documented that “The victim child and friends were playing with a balance beam and victim child got caught up in the rope. Victim child has rope burn on their neck. Toy has been removed from playground.” The documentation on the “Ouch Report” and what was communicated to the child’s parent and explanation of events which were reported by center staff to me during my visit today have conflicting stories. Ms. Thieman stated there was another class on the playground during this occurrence and the other classroom teacher has been interviewed and the teacher did not witness the incident. After further investigation, it is determined that due to the inaccuracy of the series of events from what was discussed during my visit today and what is documented, it cannot be determined if a lapse of supervision occurred. It also cannot be determined if the “Ouch Report” was falsified. As documented on specialsupplies.com, the stepping stone balance beam advises that adult supervision is recommended while using this activity. Each stepping stone is made of a hard plastic and measures 21” x 4”. Each stepping stone is connected by heavy duty connective ropes. This balance beam is recommended for ages 3 and up. While this balance beam does promote imaginative, active play, supervision must occur while children are using this activity. The balance beam should be anchored into the ground so that children cannot pick it up and use it for other purposes other than it was intended for. With proper supervision, this activity could accommodate numerous children. Ms. Thieman stated that the balance beam was removed from the playground on the day of the incident, 9-21-23. Additionally, two of the three children involved no longer attend the child care center and no further occurrences have been reported. The classroom teacher who was involved with this incident was not available for interview today due to the fact they are on a brief leave of absence. On 10-14-23, I received an e-mail from the staff member who was absent during my visit, and teacher for the classroom on 10-12-23 stating that while the class was on the playground outside the staff member was assisting another child and heard some children “fussing.” Staff member stated that they ran over to the grassy area of the playground to the group of friends who were playing on the rope balance beam. Staff member stated she observed a child “wrapped in the ropes from neck to ankle.” Staff member immediately untangled the child and removed the rope balance beam from the playground. Staff member stated they observed the victim child had slight rope burn on the side of their neck. Staff member washed the area and iced the area. The victim child’s parent was notified with a picture on the Remind app which is used for communication at the center as well as an “Ouch Report” was completed and placed on file at the center. Allegation #2 - There is a concern of inadequate supervision while on the playground. This allegation was unsubstantiated based on information reported above for allegation #1. It cannot be determined is a lapse of supervision occurred. Allegation #3 - There is a concern that the posted staff/child ratios are not followed in the early morning and late afternoon hours. During today’s visit, staff/child ratios were observed in compliance. Staffing patterns were reviewed, and I did not observe occurrences of staff/child ratios being out of compliance. Ms. Thieman stated that the operating hours of the center are 6:30am – 6:00pm, Monday-Friday. At 6:30am on a daily basis, three staff arrive to cover the Infant, Waddler and PreK children who arrive to the center first. Remaining staff arrive at 7:00am and if classrooms have been combined, staff retrieve their class members from the early morning classrooms. At 7:30am, the K-Ready classroom (ages 4-5) staff arrive and open their classroom. By 7:30am, all staff have arrived at the center. Staff leave in the afternoons in three shifts. Shift 1 leaves at 5:00pm; shift 2 leaves at 5:30pm and Ms. Thieman stated that most of the children are gone from the center at this time. Third and final shift leaves at 6:00pm as long as all children have left. Administrative staff work varied hours. One Administrator has drop-in hours Monday-Friday. A second Administrator works mainly Wednesdays 7am to 5pm. A third Administrator works Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 7am – 5pm. It was discussed with Ms. Thieman and Ms. Hilliard that it is recommended that there be at least 1 Administrator present at the center during the operating hours of the center from opening to close to assure that classrooms maintain the proper coverage and to be available for parents. Based on my observations today and staffing patterns, this allegation was not substantiated. To be proactive, Administration had already scheduled a staff meeting which was being held on the day of my visit, 10-12-23 to review child care requirements regarding equipment and ways to avoid possible safety issues. Additionally, the rope balance beam has also been removed to avoid any future occurrence. Additional information was discussed today regarding other concerns. It was discussed today that access to the main entrance to the facility is by way of an app which is scanned at the front door by staff as well as parents. Ms. Thieman stated that there is only 1 master key to the building so therefore the exterior doors of each classroom which have keyed locks, and lead to the outside playground are propped while the children are outside. We discussed that Administration have attempted numerous times to have the master key duplicated but have not been successful because the key has “do not copy” etched on the key so the keys do not work. We did discuss that the owner of the building needs to be contacted for assistance with resolution of this issue. It is a safety concern to only have one master key to gain entrance into the building in the event of connectivity issues with the current app-based system at the front door. As stated in Child Care Rule .2831 ( c ), all openings to the outer air must be protected against the entrance of flying insects therefore when the doors are propped while the children are outside, this is a violation of child care requirements. We also discussed that at times during the operating hours of the day, school-age children of staff do come for visits to the center. While present on campus for visits, the school age children do occasionally visit in the classrooms. We discussed that allowing the school age children to visit in the classrooms, though they are not enrolled, poses concerns with room capacity and supervision of staff while the school age children are in the classrooms. We discussed options and ways that these school age children can be used at the center as a means of volunteering and that the school age children should not be allowed to freely roam the center until the determination has been made as to how these children will be counted. There were no school age children present during my visit today. It was also brought to my attention today that the center does host a summer school age camp called “Smarty Plants.” This program is not licensed and not affiliated with the licensed part of the building. Ms. Thieman stated that the previous classroom for this program is now the K-Ready classroom so the summer camp will no longer be hosted at this facility. We discussed that hosting programs which are not affiliated with the licensed part of the center may cause potential issues when the shared spaces are used and is not recommended. According to Child Care Rule .0802 (e): The child care provider shall complete an incident report each time a child is injured as a result of an incident occurring while the child is in care. This incident report shall include: (1) facility identifying information; (2) the child's name; (3) date and time of the incident; (4) witness to the incident; (5) time the parent is notified of the incident and by whom; (6) piece of equipment involved, if applicable; (7) cause of injury, if applicable; (8) type of injury, if applicable; (9) body part injured, if applicable; (10) where the child received medical treatment, if applicable; (11) description of how and where the incident occurred, and the First Aid received; and (12) steps taken to prevent reoccurrence. This report shall be signed by the person completing it and by the parent, a copy given to the parent or a parent signature declining a copy and the report maintained in the child's file. The “Ouch Report” which is being used by the center does not contain all the information required as stated in Child Care Rule which is a violation of child care requirements. This is a violation of child care requirements. Two violations of child care requirements regarding program records and sanitation were observed out of compliance during my visit today. A corrective action letter stating how the violations have been corrected is due to me no later than October 26, 2023. Violation Number Comment Rule 813 Electric fans were not mounted out of reach or did not have a mesh guard to prevent access. Two fans were observed being used in the Toddler/two year old classroom. 10A NCAC 09 .0604(d) 852 Incident reports were not completed each time a child was injured, it did not include all the information required in rule, it was not signed by the parent and/or it was not maintained in the child's file. Ouch reports being used to document incidents which occur at the center, did not contain all the required information. .0802 (e) Please call me with any questions you may have. Kim Wimberly PO Box 609 Knightdale, NC 27545 919-819-9387 Kim.Wimberly@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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY Facility ID: 92003835 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 8/29/2023 Number Present: 73 Completed Date: 8/29/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 145 Time In: 09:20 AM Time Out: 11:45 AM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Routine Unannounced Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of todays unannounced visit was to monitor child care requirements during a routine unannounced visit. Additional space was also measure during my visit today. Today’s visit was conducted with Elizabeth Hilliard, owner/Co-Director. Jamie Thieman, Owner/Co-Director arrived later during my visit. I viewed the NC Secretary of State’s website and the owner of the facility, Little Sprouts Academy of Zebulon, Inc. is listed current-active as of 8-29-23. Program requirements The following items were observe posted: first aid poster, license, no smoking sign, summary of the law and emergency care plan. The indoor environment was monitored for safety and I did observe that one classroom had 2 box fans being used. One fan was located on a table near the diaper changing area and the second fan was located on a table in the classroom. We discussed that fans must be mounted 5 feet off of the floor and covered with mesh. I also observed that a piece of the cover for the wall air unit was broken and copper wire was exposed as well as one of the broken pieces had a sharp edge which both are a safety concern for the children. Attendance records were current and on file indicating arrival and departure times. The Emergency Medical Care Plan was updated and observed posted in the child care area. All space used by the children were adequately heated and cooled. An incident log is stored in the Directors Office. The last fire inspection conducted at the center was on 3-13-23. The last Sanitation inspection was conducted on 3-15-23. Staff Records: I monitored three new staff files who were hired since last annual visit during my visit today. Based on information documented on Staff & Training worksheets submitted to me today, CBC checks, CPR, First Aid and specialized training were monitored and observed to be in compliance. Staff/Child Ratios and Supervision: During todays visit I observed the children participating in various activities and some were playing outside. Supervision was observed being maintained. Medications and Hazardous Products: The center does allow emergency medications and diaper creams and ointments. No violations regarding these items were observed. One item of non compliance regarding safe environment was observed during my visit today. A corrective action letter stating how the violation was corrected is due to me no later than September 12, 2023. You can e-mail or mail this correction letter to me to the address at the bottom of this report. Violation Number Comment Rule 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. In space # 106, I observed 2 fans being used which were accessible to the children. In space #107, the cover from the wall mounted AC unit was observed broken. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) The center has submitted approved Building, Fire and Sanitation inspections for the new classroom space, space #10 which has been added to the capacity of the center. Space was measured today and space #10 has a capacity of 29 children at 30 square feet per child which fulfills your enhanced space requirements for your rated license. Space calculations for this space are attached to this report. Paperwork will be completed and a new license will be issued. Please feel free to call me if you have any questions regarding your report. Kim Wimberly PO BOX 609 Knightdale,NC 27545 919-819-9387 Kim.Wimberly@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

Open Not marked corrected in the state record

Category: supervision. Open / not marked corrected.