Harbourview Daycare

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. Reviewed the outdoor environment with the Manager. For expediency, all requirements regarding the outdoors are grouped into this section. Overall the outdoor play environment is well maintained and monitored. Manager is ensuring that sand is topped up as needed. Discussed safe use of the following play equipment - geo dome, little tikes platform and slide and rope swing with green seat. I shared CSA and DOLSOP guidelines. Inquired as to current use and supervision. Manager shared protocols currently in place for use. Manager reported there have been no incidents or concerns related to use of the three different elements in the yard. Swing has been in place for almost a year. After discussion, determined that, based on protocols as described, use of little tikes platform and geo dome could continue, e.g. staff engage in mindful supervision, equipment placement on soft even ground cover (dirt) and used as an obstacle course. Determined that the rope swing with green seat could continue, e.g. staff engaged in direct supervision, child must sit and hold on (cannot stand/ cannot swing in large circles), swinging is monitored to ensure support posts are hit, etc. Manager said she would review this with staff team. Noted the many large pots of flowers and strawberries. The garden plot has tomato plants and is ready for further planting today. There was a soundscape installed on the east part of the chain link fence made out of family donated pots, pans, muffin tins, etc. Children use spatulas and wood spoons as sound sticks against these metal pieces.

• RECORDS AND REPORTING / Records For Each ChildNon-critical

  The licensee has written, parental consent to release a child to someone other than the parent. [CCLR Sec. 57(3)(b)]

  Observation. As noted elsewhere in this report, the current software does not have a specific heading or section for written parental consent for release of child as per 57 (3) (b). Staff team and Manager are currently attempting to meet this section on an ad hoc day to day basis via email messaging. Manager and I discussed options for meeting this requirement within the current software. This was further discussed with Kiwassa Childcare and Youth Manager. The three of us had a constructive conversation about possible options for obtaining compliance. Managers and seniors will discuss this further in house and then advise CCFL once required changes have been made. In the meantime the Harbourview staff team will continue to obtain this information from families on a day to day basis.

• 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. Standard of cleaning continues to be maintained at an acceptable standard. However the rooms show considerable wear and tear since the facility was last painted (January 2023). The Bear room in particular has a number of artistes that have left their mark on the walls. (Manager noted that the Frog room has a built in easel but the Bear room does not. They have ordered an easel for the Bear side. CCFL supports this move.) Some of the high touch areas throughout the Frog and Bear rooms (including entry cubby area) are showing chips and scratches as well as holes from past curtain rods in the nap room. Manager and I noted that it appeared time to clean the area carpets again. Some staff reported that this cleaning takes place 2 times a year. Manager noted that transfer of noise and distraction via the open area between the two rooms. We observed one child slide over the current shelving units separating the rooms. This child was also able to lift and rock the shelving unit. Manager has spoken with staff and was wondering about placing something more substantive in this area to separate the spaces. We discussed this further and options that might work for the children and staff. I provided examples of sturdy, well constructed functional dividers with noise buffering features I had seen in other programs.

• 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. Noted the recycling container has a new roof. Staff present and Manager raised the issue of fibar and earth drifting onto the cement areas creating an ongoing maintenance and tripping hazard. Given the slope of the mound, CCFL is in support of raising the curbing to prevent erosion of the earth mound and fibar drift. Staff and Manager inquired as to whether fibar was required in the yard. I noted that currently there are no climbing, loose parts or fixed elements that require resilient ground cover. Observed the old wooden fence element in the north west corner by the building is wobbly and pieces are coming away such that nails are exposed. Manager and I agreed that this could be removed and earth infilled given the new fencing behind. Staff and Manager called my attention to a loose elbow at the bottom of the drain pipe. Staff and Manager said children keep taking the elbow off exposing the sharp edges. As if on cue, a child whipped by kicked the elbow and pulled it off with lightning speed. Concurred that an alternated solution was required. Gutters are clogged with leaves and debris. Discussed with Manager. Typically gutters are cleaned twice a year. Especially after leaves have fallen. Manager stated she would speak with the outside maintenance people about cleaning the gutters and getting a regular schedule.

• 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. Staff team assisted with the outdoor inspection and provided insights. Manager provided an overview of work orders that were in progress. Staff members spoke to increasing the range of climbing opportunities. Staff noted some children are climbing the roofs and tops of tables to meet the need to climb. Provided a bit of history. Noted that original design was predicated on the premise that children would have climbing opportunities on the traditional climbers in the public park directly adjacent. Noted the play value of the current yard including natural elements and sensory play. Reviewed the proposal to purchase a climbing dome. After reviewing possible placement options, noted that the dome would require fall zones and resilient ground cover not available. It is a static piece that generally can only be used one or two ways, much like the traditional play equipment in the park. Highly recommended using some of the existing loose parts, e.g. tires and augmenting with loose parts that children could use in multiple ways. Encouraged the acquisition of at least two A frames with ladders, planks, stumps, etc. These can easily be taken down and stored undercover when not in use. Staff members present for conversation expressed support for this. Manager stated she had been planning to acquire a greater range of loose parts for some time. Staff members called CCLO attention to the need for additional curbing to contain soil erosion and drift of fibar. Manager stated their support and that they had obtained quotes. Staff members highlighted the broken light bollard in the entry and north part of the yard. The prior broken bollard had been removed and capped. Staff noted additional lighting would help ensure staff, family and children safety. Staff suggested sensor light at mounted on building near entry. Manager stated an electrician had come and investigated the first broken bollard, determined it could not be repaired due to a wiring issue. Manager stated they have a quote for sensor lighting but was not convinced this was what was needed. Expressed support for the facility have safety lighting to ensure safe access and play during dark months. The hose is loosely draped over the hosebib. Staff team members noted this was a tripping hazard. Manager stated they have acquired quotes for a range of hose storage. Recycling roof shingles are breaking off and missing again. Manager and staff stated they find the design and shingled roof frustrating to use and that it requires constant maintenance. A hazard for staff to use due to heavy frame. Sand is getting low and is an area of constant play.

• STAFFING / Emergency Training and EquipmentNon-critical

  Implementation of the fire drill system is practiced at least once each month, and implementation of the emergency plan is practiced at least once each year. [CCLR Sec. 22(2)(b)(c)]

  Observation. Observed the emergency drill record hanging across from the Manager's office near staff room. Two fire drills are recorded for 2023 - January and February. Manager stated the Director of Childcare had noticed this during their last visit. Manager stated the fire drills were conducted but not recorded.

• 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 standard of cleaning is better than November 2021 routine inspection. Some of the requirements from November 2021 are still in progress including painting of the facility (quotes have been obtained and work is planned). Windows were recently repaired to ensure they do not open more than 4 inches. (One more window to go.) Counter top in the shared kitchen including sink is to be replaced as well as the sink. Sink will be inlaid which supports longevity and helps to reduce water damage. The facility will be installing air conditioning or a heat pump with capacity for cooling to help address ongoing climate change. CCFL supports this proactive approach. Impact of climate change is a health and safety issue.

• 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. Some of the work cited in the November 2021 report is still in progress. For example some of the railings around the planter (southeast) are still loose, the box next to the water source is rotting. Manager informed me that the railings would be attended to (1/2 are done) and the box next to the water source is slated for removal. Discussed the prospect of removing the chestnut tree next to the planter. Strongly recommended keeping the tree. There is no need for removal. If the tree continues to grow such that it is disturbing the planter, the planter can be altered to support garden as well as the ongoing health of the tree. The tree is healthy and providing some shade and natural softness to the yard. Discussed the doors to the shed. Manager noted water is damaging the bottom of both doors. She is considering altering the doors to provide a gap at the bottom. While this is worth a try, cautioned that this would provide an easier egress for rats and raccoons to access the shed. It would require ongoing monitoring and prevention.

• RECORDS AND REPORTING / Safe Play Space Standard of PracticeNon-critical

  Maintenance of Equipment: A log is kept of all inspections, maintenance and repairs. [Director of Licensing Standard of Practice - Safe Play Space]

  Observation. The practice of recording the daily playground checks has lapsed. Manager stated she would work to get this back on track.

• 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. Frog room Nap room - The curtain rod has broken off the wall and the curtain is pinned up. While CCFL supports the home-like aesthetics of curtains, they can be difficult to maintain in child care due to heavy use. If the staff team are committed to curtains then this requires ongoing maintenance and consideration to attaching the rods securely. Suggested considering a combination of sturdy blinds and soft valence style short curtain at top as a possible option. Bear room In the Bear room under the art sink counter the veneer has been water damaged and is peeling away exposing the pressed board underneath. This requires sourcing of the problem and repair asap to prevent further water damage. Hand trampoline in the Bear room is in a state of disrepair and must be replaced. Child care overall - Manager reported she has met with the cleaning company and cleaner regarding the quality of cleaning. CCFL observed the cleaning in the washroom and kitchen in particular and the flooring throughout is marginal. The facility was inspected on a Tuesday and there was sand in the corners of the washroom and paint under the soap container that had been clearly there for some time. Flooring and carpeting throughout require a deep cleaning and continued ongoing seasonal maintenance. Walls particularly in high traffic areas show wear - chips, children's art (drawings on wall), dirty hand prints and scrapes. A deep clean of the walls is required in the short term. For the future ( and high traffic areas, in particular, should be repainted within the next two years. Consideration should be given to the type of paint and colours used in high traffic areas.

• 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 fence in the southeast area of the yard facing the planter - one rail is loose. Above the storage bin - there are several rail that are loose and the bottom support rail has rotted away. The earth around the slide has eroded away (again). The Manager and Kiwassa Childcare Director informed me that a city and minor capital grant have been applied for the above work as well as: • Cleaning out catch basins – including snaking the pipes (Catch basins are visibly clogged with debris.) • Replace rotting stumps (10 new 8 ft cedar logs) – perimeter, around the steps/slide • Replenish sand in the sand pit