Aboriginal Mother Centre Society Daycare - Group Child Care (30 Months to School Age)

No violations recorded at this inspection.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / EnvironmentNon-critical

  The facility, the furniture, equipment, fixtures and supplies are of sturdy and safe construction.  They are easy to clean, and are clean and in good repair and free from hazards. [CCLR Sec. 13(2) and Sec. 15(1)(a)]

  Observation. Level of cleaning continues to be maintained. Manager reported that they continue to have a janitor come in to the child care three days a week - M/W/F - from 4 - 5:30 pm to clean and maintain the environment including the carpets and flooring. Manager remarked this helps ensure the cleanliness of the facility and equipment as well as freeing up staff time so that they can focus on the children in care. Manager and I discussed the condition of the half door on one of the toilets in the washroom. The door had been retrofitted to start with and now was listing on an angle due to hinges breaking down with time. The door does not shut. Manager has requested a new well constructed half door that is properly framed into the space. Door must also be easily cleaned. CCFL concurs that the current half gate must be replaced. Observed the air exchange unit to outdoors above the change table is dirty, e.g. there are cobwebs and accumulated dust fluff in the filter. This interferes with air quality in the space. Manager stated they would follow up. The wall board and paint in the gross motor / nap room is gouged and showing wear. Two of the wall mounted cabinets / storage units have been moved, revealing the strips of old paint and holes where storage was previously anchored. Manager said the staff team and facility is aware of the need to repair and repaint the walls. A contractor is meant to come in shortly to do so.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Heated WaterNon-critical

  Heated water accessible to children is heated to no more than 49° Celsius. [CCLR Sec. 47]

  Observation. There is no hot water in the children's washroom. Not at any of the sinks including those used by adults. CCFL turned the hot water tap on and it ran cold even after several minutes. There is no apparent capacity to increase the temperature to even lukewarm. Cold water discourages adequate handwashing (adults and children do not want to leave hands under cold running water) and can lead to outbreaks/ chronic patterns of illness. This has been a problem before. Manager explained that there is only one boiler. Difficult to adjust the temperature for the building. Discussed mixing valves at children's sinks. Manager will discuss this problem further with the building's facilities people and contact CCFL with a plan.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Play Area, Materials and EquipmentNon-critical

  The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

  Observation. Yard underwent renovations in early to mid 2024. Noted that all the new elements including the work done on the drainage appears to be holding. The drainage has improved significantly. Staff have worked to maintain the new as well as a care for aging elements. Manager and staff team are consulting regarding a number of repairs to maintain the yard. Discussed the following: The interim entry gate to the yard has reached end of lifespan. It was originally meant as a temporary measure, pulled together with pieces of plywood. The entry gate is in a vulnerable area of the yard off the parking lot with no ability to see who is on the other side. The gate has a simple latch and lock with no child safety features or self closure. The current use requires vigilant staff monitoring. Entry gate is to be replaced. Design will be forwarded to CCFL for review and approval prior to construction/ installation. Design to include child safety features, a self closure mechanism and a view window. The staff team discovered leaking where the canopy meets the building. Observed black and green streaks coming down from where frame abuts the building. Leaking appears down some but not all of the structural supports that are bolted into the building's membrane. A contractor has advised this is a significant issue and potential for damage to building is high. A gutter system is proposed. I inquired as to where the run off pipe would be located as the deck is wood. Manager will forward proposed design to CCFL for review. Manager has scheduled pressure washing of the canopy this spring. This cleaning is required, e.g. algae and dirt has caked onto the canopy. Timing should be done informed by work on the leak mentioned above. Storage shed is on top of a wood platform. Storage shed is decades old and requires replacement. When removed, contractor will inspect the wood platform for rot and replace if necessary, prior to installing new storage shed. Sand to be topped up by July 1, 2025. Manager and staff team will monitor the depth of the fibar, rake on a regular basis to ensure even distribution and top up if required after raking. Manager will touch based with CCFL prior to top up to ensure it is required. Manager is exploring installation of heaters on the covered outdoor play deck. This would facilitate outdoor play in the cold, wet winter months. Manager will keep CCFL informed.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / EnvironmentNon-critical

  The facility, the furniture, equipment, fixtures and supplies are of sturdy and safe construction.  They are easy to clean, and are clean and in good repair and free from hazards. [CCLR Sec. 13(2) and Sec. 15(1)(a)]

  Observation. Level of cleaning overall is a vast improvement from last year. Manager reported that the janitor continues to come every day. This has made a significant difference in the cleanliness of the facility and equipment as well as lightening staff workload so they can focus on the children. Manager noted that the gate to the kitchen is problematic. The lock many years ago was placed on the wrong side of the gate (facing the activity room) and children have figured out how to open the gate. Discussed options. Manager wondered about a higher gate. This could be an issue as the current gate clears the kitchen counter top whereas another higher gate would not. I suggested removing the lock and placing it lower down on the inside of the gate. This way only adults could reach down and unlatch it. A child would have to bring up a chair to reach that far and by that time a staff would notice. Manager stated she would put in a request for the latch to be moved to the other side and lower down. We agreed to try this before looking at creating a different gate. Manager reported the gate to the internal entry door off the activity room needs to be replaced because children have scaled the gate and gone over & children know how to work the latch. The gate is a standard height. There is a metal plate at the bottom of the gate to help prevent damage. It could be that children have used the frame of the metal plate to gain traction. Stated I could see replacing this gate with a higher gate but not so high that staff cannot see who is entering the activity room. Manager stated she would like to raise the gate by about 6 inches. Stated my agreement with this, on the condition the gate is of the same sturdy construction and materials including the wear resistant plate at the bottom. Manager agreed. We agreed that until such time as there is funding for the new gate, the latch will be lowered (on the same side it is now) so that only staff can reach the latch to release. One of the toilets in the washroom is broken, subject to flooding. Staff have consulted and the theory is the issue is the pipes versus the toilet. At present only 13 children are enrolled so the third toilet is not yet needed. However three toilets are required to support the licensed capacity. The toilet and or the plumbing is required to be functional. Manager stated that a plumber and contractor are coming to look at the situation next week.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Heated WaterNon-critical

  Heated water accessible to children is heated to no more than 49° Celsius. [CCLR Sec. 47]

  Observation. There is no hot water in the washroom. The water at children's and staff sinks is cold only, even using the hot water tap. This discourages adequate handwashing and can lead to outbreaks / illness.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / EnvironmentNon-critical

  The facility, the furniture, equipment, fixtures and supplies are of sturdy and safe construction.  They are easy to clean, and are clean and in good repair and free from hazards. [CCLR Sec. 13(2) and Sec. 15(1)(a)]

  Observation. The childcare has hired a cleaner that now comes daily from 4 - 5:30 - mops, sweeps, vacuums carpets and cleans washroom. The staff now find they can focus on the children and ratio is no longer compromised. Staff continue to clean the kitchen. The HVAC system has not been cleaned. Reviewed the requirements and walked with Manager noting the grime and build up. Manager stated she would work with facilities to address this asap.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Heated WaterNon-critical

  Heated water accessible to children is heated to no more than 49° Celsius. [CCLR Sec. 47]

  Observation. Manager stated that facilities attempted to adjust the water at the adult and children's sinks in the washroom. Tested sinks in washroom. All still run cold. There is no warm water. Cold water discourages adults and children from effective hand washing practices. This increases the risk of outbreaks and illness. Manager stated she would follow up.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Play Area, Materials and EquipmentNon-critical

  The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

  Observation. The childcare has plans for the outdoor renovation. They are still looking to hire a contractor to complete the work. Manager stated it has been difficult to search and correspond with potential contractors with the email and phone not working.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / EnvironmentNon-critical

  The facility, the furniture, equipment, fixtures and supplies are of sturdy and safe construction.  They are easy to clean, and are clean and in good repair and free from hazards. [CCLR Sec. 13(2) and Sec. 15(1)(a)]

  Observation. Discussed the current level of cleaning overall. This issue has been cited during inspections in the past. Manager reported that the building's cleaner cleans the childcare 3 evenings a week. Manager reported that daily cleaning of toilets and carpets, etc. is dependent on staff. I clarified that staff's priority must be the children, i.e. to maintain ratio and compliance with Section 34 re staffing to meet individual needs. We also discussed how sensory play is daily required offering in child care and additional cleaning is to be expected and planned for. Staff cannot engage in anything other than light daily cleaning (e.g. table tops after an activity) without compromising ratios and safety of children in care. The community standard to maintain regulatory requirements is to have a cleaner 5 days a week. This way the environment can be maintained to ensure health and safety, i.e. to protect from outbreaks, prevent colds, etc. and staff can focus on the children. Seasonal deep cleans involving floors, walls, cabinets should be scheduled at least twice a year. Strongly encouraged Manager to work with management in obtaining the services of a cleaning company or cleaner for daily cleaning and to set up a daily, weekly and monthly set of expectations. Noted the amount of lint and dust on and around the fan openings in the room, e.g. north of the kitchen. Discussed the cleaning and sanitizing of the inter locking vinyl tiles on the floor of the gross motor / nap room and in the couch / cozy area. Manager stated the staff are currently cleaning as needed and cleaning and sanitizing on a regular basis.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Furniture, Equipment and FixturesNon-critical

  Furniture or equipment for sleeping is used by only one child at a time, is clean and comfortable, and is appropriate for the size, age and development of the children intended to use it. [CCLR Sec. 15(2)]

  Observation. The bedding is stored in a slatted mat rack in the gross motor/ nap room. Noted the sheets and blankets are left on the mats and are hanging out touching the bedding / mat of the child's next door. This presents a health and hygiene risk. This matter has been discussed in the past and the plan was to try ensure the mat, sheets and blankets are stuffed into the mat slot such that they are not touching. Discussed with Manager - system is not working. Reviewed options. Manager said she would purchase containers with lids for each child's bedding to be stored separately. We reviewed a deadline of two weeks.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Heated WaterNon-critical

  Heated water accessible to children is heated to no more than 49° Celsius. [CCLR Sec. 47]

  Observation. There is no hot water in the washroom. Water is ice cold. This discourages adequate handwashing and can lead to outbreaks and illness.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Play Area, Materials and EquipmentNon-critical

  The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

  Observation. The condition of the playground continues to degrade. Issues include drainage, lack of vegetation, lack of shade, aging play equipment and minimal play value. A lack of loose parts to engage the children is evident. Manager reported the playground renovation project has stalled with the departure of the most recent executive director. Previously CCFL had approved concept plans in principle in order for the AMC to obtain funding. Manager reported she is having to start over. This is discouraging news. I reviewed the steps for the playground renovation. Plans must be submitted to CCFL for review and acceptance prior to installation or construction. Manager reported she is in the process of collecting quotes and concept plans from contractors. Manager stated that a contractor is coming to clean out the drain in the play yard.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / EnvironmentNon-critical

  The facility, the furniture, equipment, fixtures and supplies are of sturdy and safe construction.  They are easy to clean, and are clean and in good repair and free from hazards. [CCLR Sec. 13(2) and Sec. 15(1)(a)]

  Observation. The cubbies have been on order and out of compliance since May 2021. Cubbies have arrived and are now in use. The toothbrushes are now stored in cases and replaced as required. The manager said the carpets are being vacuumed regularly. Some of the area carpets have been replaced but in light grey. There are a number of visible stains on these carpets including a large dark brown handprint. Manager stated she would ensure the carpets are cleaned as soon as possible. CCFL strongly recommends that any area carpets purchased in future be of sturdy construction and a colour that is forgiving of heavy use and cleaning. The manager remarked that they have children in the process of learning to use the toilet, i.e. in diapers and that sometimes the washroom can get aromatic. I noted there is a pop out window (currently shut) above the change table area and suggested this be popped open to provide for some air exchange. Also noted the exhaust fan was on but the motor sounded weak, the cover is dusty. Attempted to place a piece of light paper on the fan to gauge suction. The paper would not stick. The motor is clearly not able to provide sufficient air exchange for the washroom and must be repaired.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Play Area, Materials and EquipmentNon-critical

  The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

  Observation. Resilient ground cover under the play structure has not yet been replenished. This is a significant health and safety issue and must be addressed by October 31, 2022. Failure to replenish the ground cover may result in serious injury to children in care and must be replaced by October 31, 2022. Failure to do so will result in CCFL having to condemn this part of the play area and closing it off from use by the children. Manager stated it has been difficult to obtain the services of a contractor to replenish the fibar. Provided Manager with some suggestions. Noted the sand has not yet been replenished. Manager stated she would follow up on this as well. Both items have been out of compliance since May 2022. CCFL has been in contact with the facility requesting follow ups. The Manager stated that plans are in process for renovating the play yard. This was communicated to CCFL in May as well. Note that it can take some time for playground renovations. In the meantime children need a safe outdoor play space. Reminded Manager that safety plans are required for any demolition / renovation of the play yard. Plans for the renovation of the yard must be submitted to CCFL for review and approval prior to any demolition, installation or construction.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Safe Play Space Standard of PracticeNon-critical

  Ground Surfacing: Protective surfacing is provided to reduce the risk of injury from falls. [Director of Licensing Standard of Practice - Safe Play Space]

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / EnvironmentNon-critical

  The facility, the furniture, equipment, fixtures and supplies are of sturdy and safe construction.  They are easy to clean, and are clean and in good repair and free from hazards. [CCLR Sec. 13(2) and Sec. 15(1)(a)]

  Observation. Manager stated the carpets are vacuumed each evening. This inspection took place on Monday morning. Considerable debris and dirt was evident on all area carpets throughout the facility. Manager wondered if the vacuum was in need of repair. We also discussed the overall condition of the carpets, most are in need of a deep clean. Noted that the toothbrushes were stored such that they are touching and some toothbrushes were in poor condition. Cubbies are still on order. Plans for the cubbies were not forwarded to CCFL as per requirements and thus the design will not facilitate the hanging of coats, i.e. the coats and muddy buddies will hang out of or end up crumpled up at the bottom of the cubby.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Play Area, Materials and EquipmentNon-critical

  The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

  Observation. The current playground has the following issues - drainage, lack of vegetation, aging play equipment and diminished play value. Manager reported the centre is waiting for funding to revision and renovate the yard. I reviewed the steps for a playground renovation, i.e. plans are to be forwarded to CCFL for review and approval prior to construction. Noted that playground renovations take time - finding contractors, etc is difficult. There is one immediate health and safety hazard that must be addressed in the meantime as well as other maintenance issues. See below.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Safe Play Space Standard of PracticeNon-critical

  Ground Surfacing: Protective surfacing is provided to reduce the risk of injury from falls. [Director of Licensing Standard of Practice - Safe Play Space]

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / EnvironmentNon-critical

  The facility, the furniture, equipment, fixtures and supplies are of sturdy and safe construction.  They are easy to clean, and are clean and in good repair and free from hazards. [CCLR Sec. 13(2) and Sec. 15(1)(a)]

  Observation. Some of the cubbies arrived damaged. The Manager stated they have new cubbies on order. The kitchen cabinet work has started but has not been completed. The swing gate will be repaired once the kitchen cabinet work is done. The cabinets under the washroom change table have been repaired but the cabinets require another coat of paint.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / EnvironmentNon-critical

  The facility, the furniture, equipment, fixtures and supplies are of sturdy and safe construction.  They are easy to clean, and are clean and in good repair and free from hazards. [CCLR Sec. 13(2) and Sec. 15(1)(a)]

  Observation. The acting manager reported she has applied for funding to replace the existing loveseat that is worn and torn. Discussed replacing the loveseat with one equal in size, easy to clean and durably made. The zipper is broken on the large cushion in the gross motor/ nap room. Acting manager will explore what the cost will be to repair and or repair the cover. The cubbies are showing wear, the veneers is missing from some edges and the finish is wearing off throughout. Cabinets under the change table in the washroom are showing significant damage - peeling and missing veneer. The walls of the child care throughout show wear and damage. The swing gate coming out of the kitchen has damaged the floor. Finish on the front of the kitchen cabinets is showing wear. Acting manager and I discussed establishing priorities among these needed repairs and funding.

• PHYSICAL, EQUIPMENT AND FURNISHING / Play Area, Materials and EquipmentNon-critical

  The entire outdoor play area is enclosed and constructed in a manner that is suitable for the age and development of children, and ensures that children are free of harm. [CCLR Sec. 16(3)(a)(b)]

  Observation. Assessed the state of the yard with the acting manager. The yard is aging out. A complete re-visioning of the yard would meet the needs of children. Band-aid repairs are having to suffice due to lack of funding for substantive renovations. The lattice has not yet been addressed from last summer's inspection. The handyperson has recommended plexi glass and found this item on constant back order. Discussed replacing the existing climbable lattice with lattice with smaller openings. Smaller lattice will still allow for supervision and prevent climbing.

• STAFFING / Standards to be maintainedNon-critical

  The licensee has appointed a manager for the community care facility. [CCALA Sec.7(1)(d) Standards to be Maintained]

  Observation. The manager named on the licence has not been part of the child care team for a long time. The licensee representative at the time inquired about changing the licence and received the appropriate forms from CCFL in fall of 2020. However that licensee rep is no longer working with the AMS. The licence must be amended to reflect the manager for the child care.