Emma's Early Learning and Care Centre - Group Child Care (Under 36 Months)

• 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 facility has undergone some renovations including: * replacement of the cubbies and additional storage * adding storage in the washroom and replacing counter tops * renovating the quiet room in the toddler program, adding storage and a bench on which to sit, recline and relax * creating a staff washroom in the southwest corner of the toddler room, with storage Acting manager, manager and staff members reported positively on the impacts for children and staff. Overall the inside of the facility is well maintained and any issues are addressed in a timely manner. Managers and staff monitor the condition of the facility (equipment and play materials) and inform YWCA upper management and facilities of any concerns/ needs. Identified with the acting Manager and Manager the following - veneer has come off the infant nap storage unit (on top of frame out of reach of the children). A work order is in process. Suggested asking for additional pieces of veneer when contractor comes to repair. Staff can then repair as needed. Veneer has a tendency to peel over time. Noted the aging felt board that is pilled reflecting years of use and love. Acting Manager also noted the two sensory tables out on the deck. Both are slated to be discarded / taken away. One table will be replaced.

• 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. Mats and cribs are used with the infant as appropriate to their age and or development. In general the west infant nap room is for cribs and in the east nap room, mats are used. East infant nap room is also used for gross motor or other activities when not in use for naps. Toddlers use mats. Toddler nap room is used as gross motor space outside of nap time. It was set up for gross motor play this morning, ready for children to arrive. Mats and cribs are cleaned and sanitized weekly or as needed. Bedding is washed on site weekly or as needed in case of accident. Bedding is stored in the slots with the mats in a hygienic manner, i.e. not touching the next child's bedding. Reviewed the condition of the toddler mats with acting Manager. Acting Manager and Manager confirmed that they intend to replace mats in next fiscal year. Mats are showing wear (cracked corners and compressed foam) and at least 12 requiring replacing. Discussed options for acquiring mats that are well constructed and have quality foam that supports children's comfort and sleep.

• 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. Reviewed the status of work cited as required on the February 2025 routine inspection. Acting Manager confirmed that the work is now slated for the spring of 2026. Acting Manager will keep CCFL posted on any changes. Any identified actions are cited below.

No violations recorded at this inspection.

• 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. Sand has been replenished in both the infant and toddler play yards. At issue now is how to maintain the health and hygiene of the sand boxes in each yard. Sand boxes are custom built and coverage requires special attention. Neighborhood cats and racoons have been accessing the sand and staff find cleaning and sanitizing to be an ongoing concern. Current tarp covers are not providing the coverage & security required. Earth has worn down with heavy use and draining water in the north west corner of the toddler yard. Ground must be topped up with additional earth to prevent tripping hazards. Discussed options for ground cover including hardy grasses, drought and wear resistant mosses. In the middle of the yard on the west side of the play ground structure & fibar is a bare patch that staff would like to optimize for children's play. In its current state, the space is essentially a transition zone that becomes muddy and lacks play value. Staff propose to install a ground level deck in this area and planting for children to explore on the south side. Plantings could include tall grasses that will provide soft cover and places for the children to "hide." CCFL supports the above to ensure compliance with DOLSOP and children's safe use.

• 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. Overall the program space is well maintained and clean. Noted there is some accumulation of dirt and debris in between the stacked washer/ dryer and the change table cabinet in the washroom. Co-manager stated they will ensure this area receives attention. Noted there is a piece missing from the south side of the countertop - north/east children's sink. Particleboard is exposed. Co-manager committed to ensuring this would be followed 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. Much of both yards were covered by snow today, especially the infant yard. Infant yard Infant playground went through a significant renovation (three years ago). Co-manager reported the team and children are enjoying the deck. Playground is well maintained. Co-manager committed to replenishing sand by end of April for topping up sand. Toddler yard The toddler yard went through a significant renovation last year. Co-manager reported the children are enjoying the play structure; there is more for the children to explore and in different ways. There is more work proposed re the landscaping and the bridge requires replacement. Observed considerable rot and chunks of wood missing from planks. A work order is in and work is planned for when weather changes, i.e. early spring. Discussed the placement of the rodent box in the toddler yard. Co-manager will discuss with pest control company. Acting co-managers will update CCFL as plans for further landscaping and bridge replacement are developed.

• 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. Overall the facility and furnishings are clean and well maintained. The south toilet in the shared washroom is clogged. A work order has gone in. A certified plumber will be called in to assess and repair/ replace the toilet. A second toilet is required to support capacity.

• 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. Infant Infant playground went through a significant renovation (two years ago). Playground is well maintained. Manager committed to replenishing sand by June / July 2024. Toddler The toddler playground has some renovation (two years ago). Manager reported the children are enjoying the revamped sand pit area. Overall the playground is well maintained. The play structure is due for replacement by December 2024. Until that time, suggested raking the fibar to help ensure even distribution in high impact areas. At the time of replacing the play structure, can consider replenishing the resilient ground cover. The outdoor shed has not yet been replaced.

• 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. While the overall facility and equipment is in satisfactory condition, there were a few items requiring action/ monitoring. Discussed the need to repair the mat storage unit for the toddlers - veneer is chipped and coming away. Monitor the condition of the paint on the windowsills in the toddler gross motor / nap room - if the paint starts peel, will require immediate attention. Manager and YWCA Manager have plans to reconfigure the storage room for toys and pantry. Will provide CCFL with a plan prior to construction / installation. Discussed staff's request for replacing the toilet in the southwest toddler area with an adult toilet to provide for more adult options. Reviewed licensing requirements regarding number of toilets, accessibility and lived experience. Suggested that when the toilet is due for replacement, the YWCA consider replacing the toilet with a larger toilet that adults and children might access. Could include a platform to support toddler access.

• 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. Infant Infant playground has gone through a significant renovation. Playground is well maintained. Toddler Toddler playground is showing wear and age. Toddler play structure is original and showing water damage and rot. Deterioration is such that it must be replaced by end of 2024 to ensure health and safety. In the meantime, YWCA is committed to following through on the small repairs identified during today's inspection. See below. Infant and toddler outdoor play sheds are aging out, showing rot and housing vermin. Manager spoke of the current rat family residents. Sheds must be replaced. CCFL highly recommends cement foundation to help prevent water damage and vermin egress in the future. Seasonal replenishing of sand and pressure washing will be required.

• 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. There is a small tear in the northeast corner of the wall paper in the east nap room. Tear is at child height and very inviting for little fingers during nap time. Manager stated the staff were aware of the tear and arrange the nap mat such that the child did not face the tear. There were two small tears in the fitted sheet cover on the large cushion in the northwest corner of the main activity room.

• 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. Infant playground will be undergoing renovation shortly to address long standing grade issue. YWCA Childcare Manager of Operations and Emma's manager reviewed options and concept plans with me today. We discussed pros and cons of each option as well as reviewing the issue of resilient ground cover and when it might be required. YWCA will keep me posted regarding further plans and ensure that CCFL reviews and approves plans prior to installation or construction.