Home › NJ › Avenel › Pumpkin Patch Child Care Center
Pumpkin Patch Child Care Center
131-133 Avenel Street, Avenel NJ 07001 · License #12PUM0002 · Child Care Center
Contact
- Director
- Kristie Balogh
- Phone
- (732) 750-5770
- Address
- 131-133 Avenel Street, Avenel NJ 07001 · Directions
Hours
Care & schedule
When they operate
Schedule type not published.
Ages served
Ages not published.
- 1-Star quality rating
- Accepts child care subsidy (CCDF)
How this facility compares
Violations per inspection, 3-yrInspection history & violations
Source: New Jersey DCF, Office of Licensing- Violation
Replenish resilient surfacing as required in all play equipment use zones in accordance with ASTM F1292 to ensure landscaping paper is not exposed and causing a tripping hazard.
Corrected by Oct 8, 2025
- Violation
Ensure the sink in room 6 is repaired. When turned on, water was spraying in all directions.
Corrected by Oct 8, 2025
- Violation
Ensure that all credentialed staff complete 20 hours of staff development annually.
Corrected by Oct 8, 2025
- Violation
Ensure that all staff complete 12 hours of staff development annually.
Corrected by Oct 8, 2025
- Violation
Ensure that CHRI background checks are completed as required for the sponsor/sponsor representative and all regularly scheduled staff. Center is missing 3 CHRIs. 10/8/25-Note, 2 outstanding.
Corrected by Nov 17, 2025
- Violation
Ensure that CARI background checks are completed as required for the sponsor/sponsor representative and all regularly scheduled staff for the center's license renewal. Center is missing 2 CARIs. 10/8/25-Note, 1 outstanding.
Corrected by Nov 17, 2025
- Violation
Ensure that children wash their hands with soap and running water immediately before consuming food. Children in room 3 washed their hands then set up their nap areas before eating lunch.
Corrected by Oct 8, 2025
- Violation
Ensure Epi-pens are stored in their original boxes with the child's name and prescription, accompanied by a special care plan that includes procedures for contacting parents and emergency medical services, and both epi-pens are present when two are required. One child needs a special care plan and another child needs a special care plan and medication that is not expired and in a box with a prescription label.
Corrected by Oct 8, 2025
- Violation
3A:52-5.4(a)(4) · For early childhood programs, the following shall apply, a supply of hot tap water not exceeding 110 degrees Fahrenheit and cold running water shall be provided.
Ensure that hot tap water does not exceed 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
Corrected by Oct 8, 2025
- Violation
3A:52-5.4(a)(1) · For early childhood programs, the following shall apply, all electrical outlets that are accessible to the children shall have protective covers.
Provide protective coverings for all electrical outlets accessible to the children.
Corrected by Oct 8, 2025
- Violation
Ensure that all outdoor carpeting is free of hazards. Repair/ replace the ripping outdoor carpeting.
Corrected by Oct 8, 2025
- Violation
Ensure that at least two staff members who have current pediatric first aid and CPR certifications are present at the center at all times and that the training includes a hands-on component in addition to any online training.
Corrected by Oct 8, 2025
- Violation
Ensure fire drills are conducted during each session provided at the center, one fire drill per year is conducted during nap time, if applicable, and all children are evacuated from the building within three minutes during each fire drill.
Corrected by Oct 8, 2025
- Violation
Conduct and document at least two lockdown drills annually.
Corrected by Oct 8, 2025
- Violation
Provide a current life/hazard use registration certificate applicable to the center's licensed capacity and ages served.
Corrected by Nov 19, 2024
- Violation
3A:52-5.3(a)(15) · Indoor maintenance and sanitation requirements are as follows: ventilation outlets shall be clean and free from obstructions, and filters shall be replaced when saturated.
Clean vent in bathroom in Room 2.
Corrected by Nov 19, 2024
- Violation
Ensure that all toxic substances are inaccessible to the children in bathroom in Room 4.
Corrected by Oct 8, 2024
- Violation
3A:52-4.8(a)(1) · Topics of orientation training shall include supervising and tracking all children, as specified in N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.3(a).
Ensure that all staff complete orientation training within two weeks of hire and annually.
Corrected by Nov 19, 2024
- Violation
Maintain suitable protective devices for radiators in Room 1.
Corrected by Nov 19, 2024
- Violation
Provide adequate lighting in hallway leading to play area.
Corrected by Nov 19, 2024
- Violation
Replace stained ceiling tile in bathroom Room 4.
Corrected by Nov 19, 2024
- Violation
Ensure Epi-pens are stored in their original boxes with the child's name and prescription, accompanied by a special care plan or other equivalent documentation from a healthcare provider, and that two are present when two are required by the plan.
Corrected by Feb 21, 2025
- Violation
Conduct and document at least two lockdown drills annually.
Corrected by Nov 19, 2024
- Violation
Conduct and document fire drills at least once per month during each session provided at the center, including one fire drill annually that is conducted during nap time.
Corrected by Nov 19, 2024
- Violation
Ensure that at least two staff members who have current pediatric first aid and CPR certifications and are present at the center at all times.
Corrected by Feb 21, 2025
- Violation
Remove storage from Room 4.
Corrected by Nov 19, 2024
- Violation
3A:52-5.4(a)(1) · For early childhood programs, the following shall apply, all electrical outlets that are accessible to the children shall have protective covers.
Provide protective coverings for all electrical outlets accessible to the children in Room 4.
Corrected by Nov 19, 2024
- Violation
Ensure that the center has a current comprehensive general liability insurance policy and maintains the documentation on file.
Corrected by Dec 19, 2024
- Violation
Ensure that all staff completes a CHRI background check as required for the center's license renewal.
Corrected by Dec 29, 2023
- Violation
Ensure that the center maintains and distributes to all families and staff a copy of the Information to Parents document.
Corrected by Dec 29, 2023
- Violation
Ensure that all staff submit a CARI background check upon renewal.
Corrected by Nov 8, 2023
- Violation
Ensure that the center maintains daily time sheets for the children that indicate the children's arrival and departure times.
Corrected by Nov 8, 2023
- Violation
Ensure that the center completes and maintains on file a Staff Records Checklist designated by OOL.
Corrected by Dec 29, 2023
- Violation
3A:52-4.6(c)(3) · For early childhood programs, the following shall apply: the group teacher shall meet the requirements for experience and education
Ensure that the group teacher meets the required qualifications as specified in the manual.
Corrected by Mar 11, 2024
- Violation
Ensure that the program supervisor meets the required qualifications as specified in the manual.
Corrected by Feb 6, 2024
- Violation
Provide a current fire certificate as required.
Corrected by Sep 20, 2023
- Violation
3A:52-5.3(a)(16) · Indoor maintenance and sanitation requirements are as follows: walls shall be painted or otherwise covered whenever there is evidence of
Repair and/or paint the wall in Room 3.
Corrected by Sep 20, 2023
- Violation
3A:52-5.3(a)(15) · Indoor maintenance and sanitation requirements are as follows: ventilation outlets shall be clean and free from obstructions, and filters shall be replaced when saturated.
Clean vent in bathroom in Room 4.
Corrected by Nov 8, 2023
- Violation
Provide a current health certificate as required.
Corrected by Sep 20, 2023
- Violation
Ensure that all toxic substances are inaccessible to the children in Room 3.
Corrected by Aug 11, 2023
- Violation
Repair bottom of door near egress in Room 3.
Corrected by Sep 20, 2023
- Violation
Ensure that microwave throughout the center are secured.
Corrected by Nov 8, 2023
- Violation
Complete and submit a copy of the center's water testing completed by a laboratory certified by the Department of Environmental Protection.
Corrected by Sep 5, 2024
- Violation
Ensure that a minimum temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit is maintained in Room 2.
Corrected by Sep 20, 2023
- Violation
Ensure that sink in bathroom in Room 4 is maintained in sanitary condition.
Corrected by Nov 8, 2023
- Violation
3A:52-5.3(b)(6) · Outdoor maintenance and sanitation requirements are as follows: centers that provide outdoor space shall maintain all fencing in proper condition.
Ensure that the fence surrounding the outdoor play area is maintained in good condition.
Corrected by Nov 8, 2023
- Violation
Maintain the resilient surfacing and use zones under all play equipment as required.
Corrected by Nov 8, 2023
- Violation
3A:52-5.3(a)(6) · Indoor maintenance and sanitation requirements are as follows: food waste receptacles shall be lined and maintained in clean and sanitary condition.
Ensure that all food waste receptacles are lined and maintained in a sanitary condition.
Corrected by Nov 8, 2023
- Violation
Ensure that the center has a current comprehensive general liability insurance policy and maintains the documentation on file.
Corrected by Nov 8, 2023
- Violation
Ensure that children wash their hands immediately after coming into contact with nasal secretions or other bodily secretions in Room 3.
Corrected by Sep 20, 2023
- Violation
Secure padding on lally column in Room 3.
Corrected by Sep 20, 2023
- Violation
3A:52-5.4(a)(4) · For early childhood programs, the following shall apply, a supply of hot tap water not exceeding 110 degrees Fahrenheit and cold running water shall be provided.
Ensure that hot tap water does not exceed 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
Corrected by Sep 20, 2023
- Violation
Ensure that the center conducts fire drills at least once per month during each session provided at the center, including one fire drill annually that is conducted during nap time.
Corrected by Dec 29, 2023
- Violation
3A:52-5.3(l)(1) · Emergency procedure requirements are as follows: the center shall prepare written emergency procedures delineating
Maintain written emergency plans for the center.
Corrected by Nov 8, 2023
- Violation
Ensure that each child's sleeping equipment are labeled with the child's name.
Corrected by Sep 20, 2023
- Violation
Ensure that the center provides opportunities for the parents to participate in the center's activities and operations.
Corrected by Sep 20, 2023
- Violation
Ensure that the center provides parent/staff conferences semi-annually and upon request.
Corrected by Sep 20, 2023
- Violation
Maintain a social media policy.
Corrected by Dec 29, 2023
- Violation
Provide vehicular barriers for outdoor play areas exposed to vehicular traffic.
Corrected by Sep 5, 2024
- Violation
Develop a written policy for the use of television, computers and other technology by children with special needs who may benefit from its educational or instructional use.
Corrected by Feb 6, 2024
- Violation
Ensure that the center has an adequate supply of materials to meet the daily activity needs of the children in Room 3.
Corrected by Sep 20, 2023
- Violation
Ensure that food provided by the center is stored, prepared and served in a sanitary manner in Room 3.
Corrected by Sep 20, 2023
- Violation
Repair and/or replace sleeping equipment that is in disrepair.
Corrected by Sep 20, 2023
- Violation
Maintain transportation records on file at the center, including a copy of the insurance policy.
Corrected by Feb 6, 2024
- Violation
Maintain transportation records on file at the center, including a record of each child transported.
Corrected by Feb 6, 2024
- Violation
3A:52-6.6(a)(1) · The methods of guidance and discipline used shall: be positive.
Based on Complaint #22922, ensure that staff utilize positive methods of guidance and discipline at all times throughout the center.
Corrected by Apr 23, 2024
- Violation
3A:52-4.8(a)(7) · Topics of orientation training shall include implementing the center's statement of policy on the disciplining of children, as specified in N.J.A.C. 3A:52-6.6.
Based on Complaint #22922, ensure that all staff are retrained on the center's policy for the disciplining of children.
Corrected by Apr 23, 2024
- Violation
3A:52-5.3(a)(6) · Indoor maintenance and sanitation requirements are as follows: food waste receptacles shall be lined and maintained in clean and sanitary condition.
Provide lids for trash receptacles in Room 2.
Corrected by May 10, 2022
- Violation
Submit a current Safe Building Interior Certification issued by the DOH.
Corrected by Sep 29, 2022
- Violation
Ensure that self made solution of bleach and water is made daily.
Corrected by May 10, 2022
- Violation
3A:52-5.3(l)(1) · Emergency procedure requirements are as follows: the center shall prepare written emergency procedures delineating
Ensure that the center has written emergency plans in a readily accessible location that includes evacuation, disaster and lockdown procedures.
Corrected by Nov 3, 2022
- Violation
Ensure that at least two staff have current first aid and CPR certifications and are present at all times at the center.
Corrected by Jun 7, 2022
- Violation
Provide screens on window used for ventilation in Room 3.
Corrected by May 10, 2022
- Violation
Ensure that the center has a current comprehensive general liability insurance policy and maintains the documentation on file.
Corrected by Jun 7, 2022
- Violation
3A:52-4.8(a)(1) · Topics of orientation training shall include supervising and tracking all children, as specified in N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.3(a).
Ensure that all staff complete orientation training annually.
Corrected by Sep 29, 2022
- Violation
Ensure that visitors in center to provide services to children are directly supervised by center staff that have all required clearances on file.
Corrected by May 10, 2022
- Violation
3A:52-4.8(c) · The center shall ensure that all staff members who work at the center complete 12 hours of continuing staff development each year.
Ensure that all staff complete 12 hours of staff development annually.
Corrected by Sep 29, 2022
- Violation
Ensure that all credentialed staff complete 20 hours of staff development annually.
Corrected by Sep 29, 2022
- Violation
Ensure that adequate staff/child ratios are maintained at all times in Room 3.
Corrected by Jun 7, 2022
- Violation
Clean sink in Room 1.
Corrected by May 10, 2022
- Violation
Secure radiator in Room 3.
Corrected by May 10, 2022
- Violation
Secure ceiling tile in Room 4.
Corrected by May 10, 2022
- Violation
Ensure that adequate procedures for tracking children are adhered to at all times in Room 3.
Corrected by Jun 7, 2022
- Violation
Ensure that all staff who do not have a completed CHRI background check are directly supervised by another staff member.
Corrected by Jun 7, 2022
- Violation
Ensure children are supervised at all times in Room 4.
Corrected by Aug 17, 2021
- Violation
Ensure CHRI checks are completed for all staff and sponsor representative.
Corrected by Sep 14, 2021
- Violation
Maintain resilient surfacing in play area.
Corrected by Aug 17, 2021
- Violation
Submit an updated copy of center's written policy on the management of communicable diseases which includes the list of illnesses and symptoms of illness for which a child will be separated from the group and possibly sent home; the list of diseases for which a child will not be readmitted to the center unless accompanied by a statement from the child's health care provider; and assurance that during any outbreak of an excludable disease at the center, each parent whose child may have been exposed to the disease shall receive a written notice of the outbreak.
Corrected by Aug 17, 2021
- Violation
Remove rust from play equipment.
Corrected by Aug 17, 2021
- Violation
Provide water testing to include lead and copper.
Corrected by Aug 17, 2021
- Violation
Maintain required ratios at all times in Room 4. Observed 16 school-aged children with 1 staff.
Corrected by Sep 14, 2021
- Violation
Provide a barrier for the outdoor area, in addition to a fence, to ensure the safety of the children while in the play area.
Corrected by Oct 14, 2021
- Violation
Replace missing radiator cover in Room 2.
Corrected by Jan 10, 2020
- Violation
3A:52-7.7(a)(3)(iv) · The schedule for disinfecting shall be as follows: tables used by the children for eating shall be washed and disinfected before each meal.
Wash and disinfect tables before each meal in Room 2.
Corrected by Jan 10, 2020
- Violation
Ensure that children are supervised at all times throughout the center.
Corrected by Jan 10, 2020
- Violation
Maintain current comprehensive general liability insurance.
Corrected by Jan 10, 2020
- Violation
Maintain a current fire certificate.
Corrected by Jan 10, 2020
- Violation
3A:52-5.3(a)(15) · Indoor maintenance and sanitation requirements are as follows: ventilation outlets shall be clean and free from obstructions, and filters shall be replaced when saturated.
Clean vents throughout the center.
Corrected by Jan 10, 2020
- Violation
Maintain current radon testing and post test results in a prominent location in the center.
Corrected by Jan 10, 2020
- Violation
Clean behind toilet in bathroom in Room 4.
Corrected by Jan 10, 2020
- Violation
Secure shelving in Room 4.
Corrected by Jan 10, 2020
- Violation
Clean sink faucets throughout the center.
Corrected by Feb 20, 2020
- Violation
3A:52-5.3(a)(4) · Indoor maintenance and sanitation requirements are as follows: carpeting shall be securely fastened to the floor.
Secure rugs in Room 5.
Corrected by Jan 10, 2020
- Violation
Maintain resilient surfacing in play area.
Corrected by Jan 10, 2020
- Violation
3A:52-5.3(c)(1) · Lighting requirements are as follows: all fluorescent tubes and incandescent light bulbs shall have protective covers or shields.
Provide protective covers on lights in bathrooms in Room 2.
Corrected by Feb 20, 2020
- Violation
Conduct and document two lockdown drills annually.
Corrected by Jan 10, 2020
- Violation
Ensure that two staff members who have current CPR and First Aid are at the center at all times.
Corrected by Jan 10, 2020
- Violation
Ensure there are five activities in five areas in rooms throughout the center.
Corrected by Jan 11, 2020
- Violation
Provide a sufficient variety of school-aged equipment / activities.
Corrected by Feb 20, 2020
- Violation
Provide skim (fat free) or one percent milk to children older than two years of age.
Corrected by Feb 20, 2020
- Violation
Repair or replace sleeping equipment that is in disrepair throughout the center.
Corrected by Jan 10, 2020
- Violation
Ensure required medication accompanies special care plans.
Corrected by Jan 10, 2020
- Violation
3A:52-7.8(a)(1)(i) · Handwashing requirements are as follows: the center shall ensure that children three months of age and older wash their hands with soap and running water before intake of food.
Ensure children wash their hands with soap and running water immediately before the intake of food in Room 2.
Corrected by Jan 10, 2020
- Violation
3A:52-7.8(a)(4)(i) · Handwashing requirements are as follows: staff members shall wash their hands with soap and running water immediately before preparing or serving food.
Ensure staff wash their hands with soap and running water before serving food in Room 2.
Corrected by Jan 10, 2020
- Violation
Based on information, ensure that adequate supervision is maintained at all times throughout the center, including ensuring that staff are not using their cell phones while caring for the children.
Corrected by Jan 10, 2020
- Violation
3A:52-4.8(a)(1) · Topics of orientation training shall include supervising and tracking all children, as specified in N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.3(a).
Based on information, retrain all staff on the center's cell phone policy.
Corrected by Jan 10, 2020
Questions to ask on your tour
Generated from this facility's specific inspection record
- 1The Sep 8, 2025 inspection noted: “Replenish resilient surfacing as required in all play equipment use zones in accordance with ASTM F1292 to ensure landscaping paper is not exposed and causing a…” — what has changed since then?
- 2The Oct 8, 2024 inspection noted: “Provide a current life/hazard use registration certificate applicable to the center's licensed capacity and ages served.” — what has changed since then?
- 3The Aug 11, 2023 inspection noted: “Ensure that all staff completes a CHRI background check as required for the center's license renewal.” — what has changed since then?
Data synced from New Jersey DCF, Office of Licensing · Source records · Report an error