10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY: THE HOCUTT CENTER Facility ID: 92003951 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/7/2024 Number Present: 53 Completed Date: 10/7/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 200 Time In: 09:40 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. This is the first annual compliance visit since the center was licensed on 10-17-24. The center currently operates with a 3 STAR rated license. The center is approved for 130 children ages 0-12. My visit was conducted with Towanna Holder, Co-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 participating to various activities. The Infants were being fed, changed and having tummy time. One infant was observed napping in a crib. Sleeping baby checks were monitored and observed to be in compliance. All children ages one to five years old were outside playing on their assigned playgrounds. The school age children were not present at the center during my visit. Staff/child ratios, space capacity and supervision were monitored and observed to be in compliance. The following concerns were observed and discussed with you as I walked through the center. *The toilet in the two/three year old classroom overflowed onto the floor when it was flushed. We discussed that based on previous history of plumbing issues, if this occurs again after it is plunged, I would suggest contacting a plumber for further evaluation. •The floors in the two/three year old classroom were observed to be dirty around the trim. Heavy grime was observed present around the trim. •Current activity plan was not posted in the school age classroom. Current activity plans for each group of children must be posted for reference. This is a violation of child care requirements. Ms. Holder did put up the new activity plan during my visit so this violation was marked corrected during visit. For outside time, the children play in a fenced areas. There are three (3) outdoor playgrounds approved for use by the children. We discussed to continue to monitor the Infant/Toddler playground to assure there are no drainage issues which were observed during previous visits. area. The playground closest to the school age building was observed to have minimal furnishings for the children to play with. There was one (1) trike bike, a Little Tikes table but no chairs and a playhouse. Ms. Holder stated that they have been having issues with children throwing the toys over the fence or being destructive and breaking what was outside. I discussed with you that engaging with the children more will deter the destructive behavior. Staff and training worksheets were submitted to me during the visit. All new staff files were monitored for compliance today. Two (2) staff were missing updated annual health questionnaires and emergency information forms. One staff member did not renew the required Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment class prior to expiration. We also discussed that the ongoing training (line 18 of Staff & Training worksheet) needs to be updated. Please update and send sheets back to me. A spot check was conducted on ten (10) 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. The EPR plan was monitored and observed to be updated 9-18-24. The most recent fire inspection was dated 9-18-23. Ms. Holder stated that they are scheduled for a new inspection this week. Annual fire inspections must be conducted prior to the expiration date. I suggest putting a reminder on your desk so that you don’t lose track of dates. Ms. Holder stated that they do not administer any medications except on an emergency basis and currently there are no children on emergency medications. The center is approved for transportation and the transportation van was onsite today and monitored for compliance. We discussed that the van is in dire need of a deep cleaning. There was trash and food observed on the floors of the van. Liability insurance is current and on file for the transportation vehicle. *****Violations: Five (5) violations of child care requirements regarding program records, safe environment and staff files were observed today. A corrective action letter stating how each violation was corrected is due to me no later than October 21, 2024 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 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection was conducted on 9-18-23. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Two sections of the chain link fence on the outdoor playground were observed sagging at the top during my visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Two staff did not have an updated annual health questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Two staff members did not have updated emergency contact information on file during my visit. .0701(a) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. One staff member did not renew the required Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training prior to expiration. .1103(b) Technical Assistance: We discussed the below things which can be added to the playground which will give the children activities to do. •You can attach large sheets of paper to the fence and give the children crayons or markers to draw and color. •Chairs can be added to the table and books added to make it an outdoor reading area for a group of children. •Pots and pans can be added to the playhouse to allow children creativity with cooking using some of the outdoor nature elements. •Add more balls of various types and teach the children games which involve the balls. •I observed 2 sections of the fence on the side closest to school age building sagging at the top. This must be repaired in order to maintain the structural safety of the fence. *A great resource to use is the NCRLAP website (North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project). There are a lot of ideas on things to enhance the outdoor environment. www.ncrlap.org 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 .0304 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY: THE HOCUTT CENTER Facility ID: 92003951 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 10/7/2024 Number Present: 53 Completed Date: 10/7/2024 Age: From 0 To 4 Total Minutes: 200 Time In: 09:40 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. This is the first annual compliance visit since the center was licensed on 10-17-24. The center currently operates with a 3 STAR rated license. The center is approved for 130 children ages 0-12. My visit was conducted with Towanna Holder, Co-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 participating to various activities. The Infants were being fed, changed and having tummy time. One infant was observed napping in a crib. Sleeping baby checks were monitored and observed to be in compliance. All children ages one to five years old were outside playing on their assigned playgrounds. The school age children were not present at the center during my visit. Staff/child ratios, space capacity and supervision were monitored and observed to be in compliance. The following concerns were observed and discussed with you as I walked through the center. *The toilet in the two/three year old classroom overflowed onto the floor when it was flushed. We discussed that based on previous history of plumbing issues, if this occurs again after it is plunged, I would suggest contacting a plumber for further evaluation. •The floors in the two/three year old classroom were observed to be dirty around the trim. Heavy grime was observed present around the trim. •Current activity plan was not posted in the school age classroom. Current activity plans for each group of children must be posted for reference. This is a violation of child care requirements. Ms. Holder did put up the new activity plan during my visit so this violation was marked corrected during visit. For outside time, the children play in a fenced areas. There are three (3) outdoor playgrounds approved for use by the children. We discussed to continue to monitor the Infant/Toddler playground to assure there are no drainage issues which were observed during previous visits. area. The playground closest to the school age building was observed to have minimal furnishings for the children to play with. There was one (1) trike bike, a Little Tikes table but no chairs and a playhouse. Ms. Holder stated that they have been having issues with children throwing the toys over the fence or being destructive and breaking what was outside. I discussed with you that engaging with the children more will deter the destructive behavior. Staff and training worksheets were submitted to me during the visit. All new staff files were monitored for compliance today. Two (2) staff were missing updated annual health questionnaires and emergency information forms. One staff member did not renew the required Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment class prior to expiration. We also discussed that the ongoing training (line 18 of Staff & Training worksheet) needs to be updated. Please update and send sheets back to me. A spot check was conducted on ten (10) 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. The EPR plan was monitored and observed to be updated 9-18-24. The most recent fire inspection was dated 9-18-23. Ms. Holder stated that they are scheduled for a new inspection this week. Annual fire inspections must be conducted prior to the expiration date. I suggest putting a reminder on your desk so that you don’t lose track of dates. Ms. Holder stated that they do not administer any medications except on an emergency basis and currently there are no children on emergency medications. The center is approved for transportation and the transportation van was onsite today and monitored for compliance. We discussed that the van is in dire need of a deep cleaning. There was trash and food observed on the floors of the van. Liability insurance is current and on file for the transportation vehicle. *****Violations: Five (5) violations of child care requirements regarding program records, safe environment and staff files were observed today. A corrective action letter stating how each violation was corrected is due to me no later than October 21, 2024 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 106 Operator has not scheduled and obtained a fire inspection within 12 months of the previous inspection. Operator did not submit the original approved report to DCDEE within one week of the inspection visit on a form provided by the Division. The last fire inspection was conducted on 9-18-23. 10A NCAC 09 .0304(a) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. Two sections of the chain link fence on the outdoor playground were observed sagging at the top during my visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1034 All staff, including the director, did not have an annual health questionnaire on file following the initial medical statement. Two staff did not have an updated annual health questionnaire on file. .0701(a) 1035 Child care providers, including the director, uncompensated providers, substitute providers, and volunteers did not have the required Emergency Information Form on file on or before the first day of work, which included all the required information and/or the information on the form was not updated as changes occur and at least annually. Two staff members did not have updated emergency contact information on file during my visit. .0701(a) 1899 Health and safety training topics were not included as part of on-going training within five years of completing the previous health and safety training topics. One staff member did not renew the required Recognizing and Responding to Child Maltreatment training prior to expiration. .1103(b) Technical Assistance: We discussed the below things which can be added to the playground which will give the children activities to do. •You can attach large sheets of paper to the fence and give the children crayons or markers to draw and color. •Chairs can be added to the table and books added to make it an outdoor reading area for a group of children. •Pots and pans can be added to the playhouse to allow children creativity with cooking using some of the outdoor nature elements. •Add more balls of various types and teach the children games which involve the balls. •I observed 2 sections of the fence on the side closest to school age building sagging at the top. This must be repaired in order to maintain the structural safety of the fence. *A great resource to use is the NCRLAP website (North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project). There are a lot of ideas on things to enhance the outdoor environment. www.ncrlap.org 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

10A NCAC 09 .0601 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY: THE HOCUTT CENTER Facility ID: 92003951 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/21/2023 Number Present: 22 Completed Date: 11/21/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's announced visit has been to provide technical assistance regarding maintaining compliance with applicable Child Care Requirements. Little Sprouts Academy: The Hocutt Center was issued a Temporary License on 10-17-23 will expire 4-17-24. Upon arrival, to the center the children were observed participating in various activities in the classrooms and one classroom was outside playing. Today's visit was conducted with Towanna Holder, Center Director. During this first Temporary Time Period visit, one classroom for each age group of children in care was monitored for compliance. The classrooms were monitored for required items posted or available for review. Materials and Equipment for the children, both indoors and outdoors, were monitored. The outdoor learning environment was also monitored to assure all child care requirements are being maintained. CENTER AND STAFF FILES One staff file for each classroom with a total of five staff files were monitored for compliance today. I did observe that 4 staff did not have documented orientation training which is required within the first 2 weeks of employment. Criminal background check qualifying letters were current and on file for all staff. A sample of 5 children’s files were monitored during my visit. Adequate CPR and First Aid coverage for the facility was observed today. You will also need to verify all required items are in staff and children’s files which were not monitored today to ensure they are checked for completeness. You are responsible for enforcing compliance throughout the facility in the classrooms that I did not monitor today. CENTER AND CLASSROOM OBSERVATIONS 1) All but one classroom had all required items posted or located in a prominent place in the center for parents, staff and available for me to review. One classroom did not have arrival and departure times in their classroom. The classrooms had the following items posted and/or available for review: --a Staff-Child Ratio Sheet posted --current and well written lesson plans posted --appropriate Daily Schedules posted --feeding schedules --sleep checks --a Safe Sleep Policy posted The center had the following items posted/located in a prominent place in the center for parents and available for me to review: --the center's license --a current and nutritious menu --a Safe Arrival and Departure Procedure --Summary of the NC Child Care Law poster --record of Monthly Fire Drills that is current and have been conducted monthly --record of Monthly Playground Inspections that is current and have been completed monthly 2) Each classroom for infants and toddlers had the appropriate amount of books, blocks, dolls, pretend play materials, musical toys, sensory toys, and fine motor toys for the proposed capacity and the required equipment for routine care giving. 3) Each classroom for preschool children aged two(2) through five(5) years had the five(5) required Activity Centers and/or access to the three(3) Special Interest Activity Centers. Each center contained a sufficient amount of materials for three(3) or more children, whether they choose to do the same activity or different activities. 4) There are 12 school age children enrolled and are cared for in the same classroom as the 4/5 year olds. I did observe that the school aged children had equipment available that was appropriate for the age and size of the children using the items and materials present in a sufficient quantity and variety to support the required number of activities appropriate to the age and interests of the children. 5) The outdoor play area did not contain any hazards for children. There is no stationary equipment located on the playground. While monitoring the classrooms I did observe the below items which were discussed. *Toddler classroom - I observed a teacher backpack purse sitting on a wooden feeding chair within access to the children. Staff personal items must be locked up out of reach of the children. - There was a tube of Aveeno hand lotion sitting on top of the cubbies which was not labeled. I discussed this with Ms. Holder and she stated that it belonged to the teacher. Please remind staff that if they have personal lotions, the word “staff” or the staff members name must be written on them. - There was a pair of sharp scissors being stored in a white pen caddy less than 5 feet off the floor. This is a safety concern. - The Staff/Child ratio sheet was posted in this classroom but was not completed and customized indicating the classroom number and what ratios are being met - I observed the children coming in from outside but some did not wash hands prior to playing with various toys around the room - I observed one child mouthing a toy from Dramatic Play and the staff member stated to the child “not in your mouth” but did not remove the toy and place into a dirty bin - We also discussed that staff should be more engaging with the children. While in this classroom I did not observe any instances of conversation with the children. I observed the staff member saying “no” to the children when they did not make good choices but I did not observe any redirection or spontaneous conversations. This is a busy age group and their minds must stay active and engaged. Ms. Holder stated she will be doing observations and working with the staff member one on one. *Two year old classroom: - The arrival and departure times were not in the classroom and the floater in the classroom was unsure where the clipboard was - I observed a child mouthing a toy but the toy was not removed and placed in a dirty toy bin - Staff member assisted a child use the potty but upon completion, the teacher nor the child washed their hands before entering the play areas - I heard children ask if they were going outside to play and the staff member stated that “there were too many rain puddles so they were not going outside.” I looked onto the playground and I did not see any puddles at all and also did not observe any active precipitation. Please review the Child Care Weather Watch Chart with staff as reminders for outside time and remind staff that the children must go outside every day, weather permitting. *3-5 year old blended classroom: - The sink bucket for the dramatic play sink was missing. Ms. Holder stated they have extras and that will be replaced today. The center was not in compliance with all applicable minimum licensing requirements during today's visit and seven violations regarding sanitation, program records, equipment and furnishings and handwashing were cited. A corrective action letter stating how the violations were corrected is due to e no later than December 5, 2023 and can be mailed or e-mailed to me at the contact information at the end of this visit summary. Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children enrolled at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. One classroom did not have arrival and departure times in the classroom during my visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, before and after water activity play, after outside play, and after handling animals or animal cages. A child was observed using the potty but did not wash their hands after finishing before returning back to the play area. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c) 609 Staff did not wash their hands thoroughly before beginning work, before/after handling food, before bottle feeding or serving to other children, after toileting or handling body fluids, after diaper changing and after handling soiled items. A staff member was observed assisting a child go to the potty but did not wash their hands before returning to the play area. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(a) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. I observed two instances of children mouthing toys and the toys were not removed from the children and placed in dirty toy bins. .2822(a)(1-4) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The sink bucket was missing from the Dramatic Play sink in the 3-5 year old classroom. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There was a pair of sharp scissors stored less than 5 feet from the floor and a staff member's backpack purse sitting on a wooden chair accessible to the children in the Toddler classroom. I also observed a tube of Aveeno hand cream on top of the cubby area of the Toddler classroom which was not labeled as staff. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Three staff did not have documentation of completion of orientation required for the first 2 weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) COMPLIANCE HISTORY According to NC General Statute 110-90(4)(d) all child care centers must maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past 18 months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Any violations documented during visits to your center may have an impact on the total compliance history score and cause your score to drop below the mandated level. Should this occur, your center may not be eligible for an enhanced rated license at the end of your temporary license time period and will be at risk of being issued a Provisional License or denied a permanent license. RATED LICENSE: We reviewed the rated license assessment assessment process during the visit today. It is very important that all employees should register in the WORKS system and follow instructions regarding education evaluation, including but not limited to official transcripts. Please refer to your Child Care Rules for staffing requirements at each level. The following staff will be assessed as part of the assessment process: Administrator, Lead Teachers, Teacher Assistants, Program Coordinator, and Group Leaders. Prompt submission of this information is imperative in order to follow adequate time for processing. The deadline for submission of this information is due to me by January 17, 2024. Ms. Holder stated that at this time, they do not wish to have the ECERS completed and wish to be assessed without scales. Ms. Holder stated that they will be working with agencies to assist them in preparing for the scales in the future after the center has been up and running and staff are all in place. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND CONSULTATION The center is currently working with sanitation, building and fire to obtain permission to open the additional building which is located on the property. Please remember to keep me in the loop so that I can plan any additional visits that would be required prior to approval of this building for the care of children. Please keep in mind that this building will be included in your rated license assessment as we prepare you for a rated license in April 2024. Child Care Centers with a Temporary License in good standing may be eligible for participation in the NC Child Care Subsidy System during the first 6 months of operation. Legislative changes, however will only allow centers with a 3 Star or higher license to continue to participate in the Subsidy System after the first 6 months of operation. You should begin making plans now to obtain at least a 3 Star rated license by the expiration of your Temporary License if you intend to participate in the NC Subsidized Child Care System. 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: ratio. Open / not marked corrected.

10A NCAC 09 .0302 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY: THE HOCUTT CENTER Facility ID: 92003951 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/21/2023 Number Present: 22 Completed Date: 11/21/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's announced visit has been to provide technical assistance regarding maintaining compliance with applicable Child Care Requirements. Little Sprouts Academy: The Hocutt Center was issued a Temporary License on 10-17-23 will expire 4-17-24. Upon arrival, to the center the children were observed participating in various activities in the classrooms and one classroom was outside playing. Today's visit was conducted with Towanna Holder, Center Director. During this first Temporary Time Period visit, one classroom for each age group of children in care was monitored for compliance. The classrooms were monitored for required items posted or available for review. Materials and Equipment for the children, both indoors and outdoors, were monitored. The outdoor learning environment was also monitored to assure all child care requirements are being maintained. CENTER AND STAFF FILES One staff file for each classroom with a total of five staff files were monitored for compliance today. I did observe that 4 staff did not have documented orientation training which is required within the first 2 weeks of employment. Criminal background check qualifying letters were current and on file for all staff. A sample of 5 children’s files were monitored during my visit. Adequate CPR and First Aid coverage for the facility was observed today. You will also need to verify all required items are in staff and children’s files which were not monitored today to ensure they are checked for completeness. You are responsible for enforcing compliance throughout the facility in the classrooms that I did not monitor today. CENTER AND CLASSROOM OBSERVATIONS 1) All but one classroom had all required items posted or located in a prominent place in the center for parents, staff and available for me to review. One classroom did not have arrival and departure times in their classroom. The classrooms had the following items posted and/or available for review: --a Staff-Child Ratio Sheet posted --current and well written lesson plans posted --appropriate Daily Schedules posted --feeding schedules --sleep checks --a Safe Sleep Policy posted The center had the following items posted/located in a prominent place in the center for parents and available for me to review: --the center's license --a current and nutritious menu --a Safe Arrival and Departure Procedure --Summary of the NC Child Care Law poster --record of Monthly Fire Drills that is current and have been conducted monthly --record of Monthly Playground Inspections that is current and have been completed monthly 2) Each classroom for infants and toddlers had the appropriate amount of books, blocks, dolls, pretend play materials, musical toys, sensory toys, and fine motor toys for the proposed capacity and the required equipment for routine care giving. 3) Each classroom for preschool children aged two(2) through five(5) years had the five(5) required Activity Centers and/or access to the three(3) Special Interest Activity Centers. Each center contained a sufficient amount of materials for three(3) or more children, whether they choose to do the same activity or different activities. 4) There are 12 school age children enrolled and are cared for in the same classroom as the 4/5 year olds. I did observe that the school aged children had equipment available that was appropriate for the age and size of the children using the items and materials present in a sufficient quantity and variety to support the required number of activities appropriate to the age and interests of the children. 5) The outdoor play area did not contain any hazards for children. There is no stationary equipment located on the playground. While monitoring the classrooms I did observe the below items which were discussed. *Toddler classroom - I observed a teacher backpack purse sitting on a wooden feeding chair within access to the children. Staff personal items must be locked up out of reach of the children. - There was a tube of Aveeno hand lotion sitting on top of the cubbies which was not labeled. I discussed this with Ms. Holder and she stated that it belonged to the teacher. Please remind staff that if they have personal lotions, the word “staff” or the staff members name must be written on them. - There was a pair of sharp scissors being stored in a white pen caddy less than 5 feet off the floor. This is a safety concern. - The Staff/Child ratio sheet was posted in this classroom but was not completed and customized indicating the classroom number and what ratios are being met - I observed the children coming in from outside but some did not wash hands prior to playing with various toys around the room - I observed one child mouthing a toy from Dramatic Play and the staff member stated to the child “not in your mouth” but did not remove the toy and place into a dirty bin - We also discussed that staff should be more engaging with the children. While in this classroom I did not observe any instances of conversation with the children. I observed the staff member saying “no” to the children when they did not make good choices but I did not observe any redirection or spontaneous conversations. This is a busy age group and their minds must stay active and engaged. Ms. Holder stated she will be doing observations and working with the staff member one on one. *Two year old classroom: - The arrival and departure times were not in the classroom and the floater in the classroom was unsure where the clipboard was - I observed a child mouthing a toy but the toy was not removed and placed in a dirty toy bin - Staff member assisted a child use the potty but upon completion, the teacher nor the child washed their hands before entering the play areas - I heard children ask if they were going outside to play and the staff member stated that “there were too many rain puddles so they were not going outside.” I looked onto the playground and I did not see any puddles at all and also did not observe any active precipitation. Please review the Child Care Weather Watch Chart with staff as reminders for outside time and remind staff that the children must go outside every day, weather permitting. *3-5 year old blended classroom: - The sink bucket for the dramatic play sink was missing. Ms. Holder stated they have extras and that will be replaced today. The center was not in compliance with all applicable minimum licensing requirements during today's visit and seven violations regarding sanitation, program records, equipment and furnishings and handwashing were cited. A corrective action letter stating how the violations were corrected is due to e no later than December 5, 2023 and can be mailed or e-mailed to me at the contact information at the end of this visit summary. Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children enrolled at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. One classroom did not have arrival and departure times in the classroom during my visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, before and after water activity play, after outside play, and after handling animals or animal cages. A child was observed using the potty but did not wash their hands after finishing before returning back to the play area. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c) 609 Staff did not wash their hands thoroughly before beginning work, before/after handling food, before bottle feeding or serving to other children, after toileting or handling body fluids, after diaper changing and after handling soiled items. A staff member was observed assisting a child go to the potty but did not wash their hands before returning to the play area. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(a) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. I observed two instances of children mouthing toys and the toys were not removed from the children and placed in dirty toy bins. .2822(a)(1-4) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The sink bucket was missing from the Dramatic Play sink in the 3-5 year old classroom. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There was a pair of sharp scissors stored less than 5 feet from the floor and a staff member's backpack purse sitting on a wooden chair accessible to the children in the Toddler classroom. I also observed a tube of Aveeno hand cream on top of the cubby area of the Toddler classroom which was not labeled as staff. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Three staff did not have documentation of completion of orientation required for the first 2 weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) COMPLIANCE HISTORY According to NC General Statute 110-90(4)(d) all child care centers must maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past 18 months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Any violations documented during visits to your center may have an impact on the total compliance history score and cause your score to drop below the mandated level. Should this occur, your center may not be eligible for an enhanced rated license at the end of your temporary license time period and will be at risk of being issued a Provisional License or denied a permanent license. RATED LICENSE: We reviewed the rated license assessment assessment process during the visit today. It is very important that all employees should register in the WORKS system and follow instructions regarding education evaluation, including but not limited to official transcripts. Please refer to your Child Care Rules for staffing requirements at each level. The following staff will be assessed as part of the assessment process: Administrator, Lead Teachers, Teacher Assistants, Program Coordinator, and Group Leaders. Prompt submission of this information is imperative in order to follow adequate time for processing. The deadline for submission of this information is due to me by January 17, 2024. Ms. Holder stated that at this time, they do not wish to have the ECERS completed and wish to be assessed without scales. Ms. Holder stated that they will be working with agencies to assist them in preparing for the scales in the future after the center has been up and running and staff are all in place. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND CONSULTATION The center is currently working with sanitation, building and fire to obtain permission to open the additional building which is located on the property. Please remember to keep me in the loop so that I can plan any additional visits that would be required prior to approval of this building for the care of children. Please keep in mind that this building will be included in your rated license assessment as we prepare you for a rated license in April 2024. Child Care Centers with a Temporary License in good standing may be eligible for participation in the NC Child Care Subsidy System during the first 6 months of operation. Legislative changes, however will only allow centers with a 3 Star or higher license to continue to participate in the Subsidy System after the first 6 months of operation. You should begin making plans now to obtain at least a 3 Star rated license by the expiration of your Temporary License if you intend to participate in the NC Subsidized Child Care System. 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

G.S. 110-91 · Violation

Name of Operation: LITTLE SPROUTS ACADEMY: THE HOCUTT CENTER Facility ID: 92003951 Consultant: KIMBERLY WIMBERLY Operation Type: Center Case Number: Visit Date: 11/21/2023 Number Present: 22 Completed Date: 11/21/2023 Age: From 0 To 5 Total Minutes: 225 Time In: 09:30 AM Time Out: 01:15 PM Time In: Time Out: List to Use: Center Type Of Visit: Temp Time Period Announced/Unannounced: Unannounced The purpose of today's announced visit has been to provide technical assistance regarding maintaining compliance with applicable Child Care Requirements. Little Sprouts Academy: The Hocutt Center was issued a Temporary License on 10-17-23 will expire 4-17-24. Upon arrival, to the center the children were observed participating in various activities in the classrooms and one classroom was outside playing. Today's visit was conducted with Towanna Holder, Center Director. During this first Temporary Time Period visit, one classroom for each age group of children in care was monitored for compliance. The classrooms were monitored for required items posted or available for review. Materials and Equipment for the children, both indoors and outdoors, were monitored. The outdoor learning environment was also monitored to assure all child care requirements are being maintained. CENTER AND STAFF FILES One staff file for each classroom with a total of five staff files were monitored for compliance today. I did observe that 4 staff did not have documented orientation training which is required within the first 2 weeks of employment. Criminal background check qualifying letters were current and on file for all staff. A sample of 5 children’s files were monitored during my visit. Adequate CPR and First Aid coverage for the facility was observed today. You will also need to verify all required items are in staff and children’s files which were not monitored today to ensure they are checked for completeness. You are responsible for enforcing compliance throughout the facility in the classrooms that I did not monitor today. CENTER AND CLASSROOM OBSERVATIONS 1) All but one classroom had all required items posted or located in a prominent place in the center for parents, staff and available for me to review. One classroom did not have arrival and departure times in their classroom. The classrooms had the following items posted and/or available for review: --a Staff-Child Ratio Sheet posted --current and well written lesson plans posted --appropriate Daily Schedules posted --feeding schedules --sleep checks --a Safe Sleep Policy posted The center had the following items posted/located in a prominent place in the center for parents and available for me to review: --the center's license --a current and nutritious menu --a Safe Arrival and Departure Procedure --Summary of the NC Child Care Law poster --record of Monthly Fire Drills that is current and have been conducted monthly --record of Monthly Playground Inspections that is current and have been completed monthly 2) Each classroom for infants and toddlers had the appropriate amount of books, blocks, dolls, pretend play materials, musical toys, sensory toys, and fine motor toys for the proposed capacity and the required equipment for routine care giving. 3) Each classroom for preschool children aged two(2) through five(5) years had the five(5) required Activity Centers and/or access to the three(3) Special Interest Activity Centers. Each center contained a sufficient amount of materials for three(3) or more children, whether they choose to do the same activity or different activities. 4) There are 12 school age children enrolled and are cared for in the same classroom as the 4/5 year olds. I did observe that the school aged children had equipment available that was appropriate for the age and size of the children using the items and materials present in a sufficient quantity and variety to support the required number of activities appropriate to the age and interests of the children. 5) The outdoor play area did not contain any hazards for children. There is no stationary equipment located on the playground. While monitoring the classrooms I did observe the below items which were discussed. *Toddler classroom - I observed a teacher backpack purse sitting on a wooden feeding chair within access to the children. Staff personal items must be locked up out of reach of the children. - There was a tube of Aveeno hand lotion sitting on top of the cubbies which was not labeled. I discussed this with Ms. Holder and she stated that it belonged to the teacher. Please remind staff that if they have personal lotions, the word “staff” or the staff members name must be written on them. - There was a pair of sharp scissors being stored in a white pen caddy less than 5 feet off the floor. This is a safety concern. - The Staff/Child ratio sheet was posted in this classroom but was not completed and customized indicating the classroom number and what ratios are being met - I observed the children coming in from outside but some did not wash hands prior to playing with various toys around the room - I observed one child mouthing a toy from Dramatic Play and the staff member stated to the child “not in your mouth” but did not remove the toy and place into a dirty bin - We also discussed that staff should be more engaging with the children. While in this classroom I did not observe any instances of conversation with the children. I observed the staff member saying “no” to the children when they did not make good choices but I did not observe any redirection or spontaneous conversations. This is a busy age group and their minds must stay active and engaged. Ms. Holder stated she will be doing observations and working with the staff member one on one. *Two year old classroom: - The arrival and departure times were not in the classroom and the floater in the classroom was unsure where the clipboard was - I observed a child mouthing a toy but the toy was not removed and placed in a dirty toy bin - Staff member assisted a child use the potty but upon completion, the teacher nor the child washed their hands before entering the play areas - I heard children ask if they were going outside to play and the staff member stated that “there were too many rain puddles so they were not going outside.” I looked onto the playground and I did not see any puddles at all and also did not observe any active precipitation. Please review the Child Care Weather Watch Chart with staff as reminders for outside time and remind staff that the children must go outside every day, weather permitting. *3-5 year old blended classroom: - The sink bucket for the dramatic play sink was missing. Ms. Holder stated they have extras and that will be replaced today. The center was not in compliance with all applicable minimum licensing requirements during today's visit and seven violations regarding sanitation, program records, equipment and furnishings and handwashing were cited. A corrective action letter stating how the violations were corrected is due to e no later than December 5, 2023 and can be mailed or e-mailed to me at the contact information at the end of this visit summary. Violation Number Comment Rule 125 Daily records of arrival and departure times for children enrolled at the center were not maintained as children arrive and depart and/or were not made available for review. One classroom did not have arrival and departure times in the classroom during my visit. 10A NCAC 09 .0302(d)(4) 608 Children did not wash their hands upon arrival at the center, after each visit to the toilet, before eating, before and after water activity play, after outside play, and after handling animals or animal cages. A child was observed using the potty but did not wash their hands after finishing before returning back to the play area. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(c) 609 Staff did not wash their hands thoroughly before beginning work, before/after handling food, before bottle feeding or serving to other children, after toileting or handling body fluids, after diaper changing and after handling soiled items. A staff member was observed assisting a child go to the potty but did not wash their hands before returning to the play area. 15A NCAC 18A .2803(a) 616 Toys and other mouth-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized daily when used or cleaned more frequently if visibly dirty. I observed two instances of children mouthing toys and the toys were not removed from the children and placed in dirty toy bins. .2822(a)(1-4) 721 All equipment and furnishings were not in good repair. The sink bucket was missing from the Dramatic Play sink in the 3-5 year old classroom. G.S. 110-91(6); .0601(b) 807 A safe indoor and outdoor environment was not provided for the children. There was a pair of sharp scissors stored less than 5 feet from the floor and a staff member's backpack purse sitting on a wooden chair accessible to the children in the Toddler classroom. I also observed a tube of Aveeno hand cream on top of the cubby area of the Toddler classroom which was not labeled as staff. 10A NCAC 09 .0601(a) 1067 Each new employee did not complete, within the first two weeks of employment, six clock hours of training in required topic areas. Three staff did not have documentation of completion of orientation required for the first 2 weeks of employment. .1101(a)(b) COMPLIANCE HISTORY According to NC General Statute 110-90(4)(d) all child care centers must maintain a compliance history of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for the past 18 months or during the length of time the facility has operated, whichever is less. Any violations documented during visits to your center may have an impact on the total compliance history score and cause your score to drop below the mandated level. Should this occur, your center may not be eligible for an enhanced rated license at the end of your temporary license time period and will be at risk of being issued a Provisional License or denied a permanent license. RATED LICENSE: We reviewed the rated license assessment assessment process during the visit today. It is very important that all employees should register in the WORKS system and follow instructions regarding education evaluation, including but not limited to official transcripts. Please refer to your Child Care Rules for staffing requirements at each level. The following staff will be assessed as part of the assessment process: Administrator, Lead Teachers, Teacher Assistants, Program Coordinator, and Group Leaders. Prompt submission of this information is imperative in order to follow adequate time for processing. The deadline for submission of this information is due to me by January 17, 2024. Ms. Holder stated that at this time, they do not wish to have the ECERS completed and wish to be assessed without scales. Ms. Holder stated that they will be working with agencies to assist them in preparing for the scales in the future after the center has been up and running and staff are all in place. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND CONSULTATION The center is currently working with sanitation, building and fire to obtain permission to open the additional building which is located on the property. Please remember to keep me in the loop so that I can plan any additional visits that would be required prior to approval of this building for the care of children. Please keep in mind that this building will be included in your rated license assessment as we prepare you for a rated license in April 2024. Child Care Centers with a Temporary License in good standing may be eligible for participation in the NC Child Care Subsidy System during the first 6 months of operation. Legislative changes, however will only allow centers with a 3 Star or higher license to continue to participate in the Subsidy System after the first 6 months of operation. You should begin making plans now to obtain at least a 3 Star rated license by the expiration of your Temporary License if you intend to participate in the NC Subsidized Child Care System. 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