Hastings Park Childcare (Multi-Age) - Multi-Age Child Care

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 MA's drain was clogged with significant and deep pooling of water today. Pooling is between the hut and the sand pit. This requires timely action. Suggested that the 3-5 and toddler drains be serviced at the same time as the MA's to prevent drainage issues. Such servicing should be part of a routine maintenance cycle. Roof on top of play hut is covered with sticks, orange event fencing (was used as cover for sand pit but now for some reason on top of hut) and other debris. Manager said there are plans to clean off the roof top and engage in planting of seeds on the living roof. Noted that sand and soil replenishing was due in all Hasting Park yards. Discussed ensuring the sand was of quality, river washed sand (not coarse) to provide for the best play value (e.g. molding capacity). This may mean in some yards removing the existing sand and replenishing in full versus a top up. Note - for health and hygiene reasons a full replacement is recommended every couple of years at the least. Manager stated all of the above was in progress and anticipated to take place early spring. CCFL accepts this assurance and planned work as compliance. In each yard there are some wood elements with rough, worn edges, e.g. wood around sand pit. Structurally the wood is solid but rough edges should be attended to with proactive sanding to prevent splinters or cuts. Suggested acquiring a portable sanding unit to use on worst elements and small child sized sanding blocks for the children to help care for their environment. Manager stated that they would follow up. Manager expressed support for finding ways to involve the children. Noted the green tarp was still affixed to the fencing facing the track. This tarping was affixed to address the track's perceived safety concerns for their jockeys while on practice runs with the horses. The track is now closed - the tarp can come down, air flow enhanced and children's view can be liberated. Manager stated they would follow up. Suggested repurposing the tarping for shade or creation of forts etc.

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. Facility and equipment are in satisfactory condition overall given the age of the building. Manager and staff team have been monitoring the condition of the counter tops throughout the facility. Finish is starting to wear on many surfaces. Most apparent is the kitchen shared between the 3-5 and multi age programs. The counter top surrounding the kitchen sink facing the 3-5 room has deteriorated since last inspection. When the finish comes off, it makes it impossible to adequately clean and sanitize. Any liquid or substances soaks into the particle board underneath the worn finish. Also noted the fronts of the cabinets under this sink have two large chipped areas, exposing particle board. CCFL advises planning for replacement or refinishing of the kitchen counters and cabinet fronts (as noted) within two years. Dust build up present on or around HVAC (air intake and venting) was noted throughout the facility. Manager said she had tried to hand clean some of the vents herself as the dust build up was evident. A professional company should do the cleaning of vents, etc seasonally. This will improve air quality year round especially for those children & staff with allergies or asthma.

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 outdoor playground is under renovation to remove and replace damaged elements including wood pieces. MA yard will be included as part of project. Discussed leaving texturing on the wood to provide traction for safe grip of hands and feet. Noted the amount of shade with the mature trees. Observed the vines growing up and the sides of the exterior and weaving their way through roof elements including meshing for rain screen. Concern is for damage vines can do to wall infrastructure and membrane. Vines will have to be removed to protect the integrity of the building and then again before repainting (see below). Exterior of the building has not been painted since opening in 2011. Exterior paint is worn and faded. Exterior of building will require a repaint within two years (by summer 2026).

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. Manager and I noted a couple of exposed screws/ nails that the Manager will extract or pound in. Noted the sand pits are low and full of subgrade grainy sand. Manager stated she was disappointed with the latest delivery of sand. here is a plan to remove existing sand and replenished with river washed, high quality sand. CCFL supports this plan. Current sand does not offer the same level of play value of higher quality sand and the pits need to be replenished. Discussed reasonable timeframe for action.

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 Manager reported the children continue to enjoy the corner multi level structure in the corner. Noted the children have claimed the structure as their own, painting various levels and railings. Staff team and manager have observed the sand is drifting from both sand pits onto to high traffic areas creating a slipping hazard. The sand drifting also makes it difficult to maintain appropriate levels to facilitate play. Also noted that several of the wood rounds throughout the yard are nearing their end of life, e.g. rotting.

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 was opened in March 2012 and now beginning to show its age. Noted the paint is worn & chipped, dry wall and wall board is torn and ripped throughout the child care rooms. Note - It is typical for child care settings to have painting cycles of 8 -10 years or less for high traffic areas.

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 some clutter near the south entry door to the yard - brooms, two garbage cans, etc. Discussed the importance of ensuring any drains are free of leaves or debris. Noted the sand is heavily packed down due to rain and use, difficult for a child to dig and create in the sand. Noted the children continue to enjoy the play structure tucked into the southwest corner of the yard. Observed how a change mat has been placed on the upper loft to create a comfy place to hide out and lounge.