Kids at G.F. Strong Child Development Centre - Group Child Care (30 Months to School Age)

Behavioural guidance is appropriate to the age and development of each child. [CCLR Sec.51(1)(a)]

Observation. Licensing observed the following staff/child interactions: - A child was moving around on their feet in the reading area located by the kitchen. The staff observing the child reminded the child it was "quiet book time" and to "sit down here". The staff then put their hands underneath the child's armpits and moved the child towards a pillow on the ground, physically redirecting the child to sit down and read a book. - Later on, the same child got up and leaned with their arms onto mats placed upright to divide the area from the rest of the space. The staff placed their hands around the child's wrists and physically redirected the child to sit down. - Another child got a stuffed animal from the kitchen counter, it belonged to the staff. The staff said to the child in a firm voice "If you play with my toy you have to sit on the ground", "Stay on the carpet", "I need you to listen to my words otherwise I will take you back to circle", and "Come her, come here". - Later during the inspection licensing overheard the same staff say to a child in the cubby "I only hear whining right now, not somebody using their words". The staff's use of physical redirection and language appeared inappropriate to the situations at hand and the developmental level of the children. The observations were discussed with the program manager at the time of inspection.

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. Licensing observed that several wood climber supporting posts have started to rot at ground level where the Fibar is located. The wood crumbles when kicked against. These posts are no longer in good repair and require to be replaced.

The licensee keeps a current record for each child showing the information required. [CCLR Sec. 57]

Observation. Licensing was unable to locate a digital image of a child in the multiple children's files.

No child is subjected to harmful actions as defined in Section 52. [CCLR Sec 52(1)(a)-(f)]

Observation. During the inspection Licensing observed one of the Educators pull a child up from the floor by holding them under both arm pits and then dragged the child across the floor to where they wanted the child to sit at their cubby. Due to concerns for the child the Licensing Officer alerted the Manager of this interaction.

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. Licensing observed that the white step stools in the children's washroom appeared dirty and in need of a clean. Licensing also observed that the carpet on the stairs of the stage area was frayed and the duct tape used to repair the carpet was torn and peeling. This item remains in non compliance from the previous inspection.

No child is subjected to harmful actions as defined in Section 52. [CCLR Sec 52(1)(a)-(f)]

Observation. LO observed in the communication book that a child was physically removed from the bathroom and put on their sleep mat by an Educator. Upon reading the documentation it does not appear that the child was at risk of imminent harm. Therefore this physical touch on the part of the Educator contravenes Section 52(1)(b) of the CCLR.

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. Licensing observed that the white step stools in the children's washroom appeared dirty and in need of a clean. Licensing also observed that the carpet on the stairs of the stage area was frayed and the duct tape used to repair the carpet was torn and peeling.

All indoor and outdoor play materials and equipment accessible to children are suitable for the age and development of the children, safely constructed, free from hazards and in good repair. [CCLR Sec. 16(4)]

Observation. Licensing observed the following: *rotten and splintered logs throughout the outdoor playground *the tiered section with the rubber matting has deteriorated. Licensing observed wooden edging of the tiers is rotten and missing in sections and the tiers themselves are beginning to collapse. The rubber matting is no longer holding its shape and is beginning to slide off the tiers *sections of the wooden railing were missing *the cover on the cement box that houses the outside faucet has come loose *several areas of the wooden climbing structure are beginning to show rot and have become splintery and one of the stairs was broken *exposed nails accessible to the children *the ramp was no longer attached Licensing also observed black stains on some of the wooden play equipment which is indicative of mildew or mould due to damp weather conditions. Licensing recommends that the equipment be power washed.

Ground Surfacing: Protective surfacing is checked regularly to ensure the depth and adequacy of the material. [Director of Licensing Standard of Practice - Safe Play Space]

Ground Surfacing: The depth of loose fill material (protective surfacing) meets or exceeds the minimum requirements of the Standard of Practice. [Director of Licensing Standard of Practice - Safe Play Space]

Observation. Licensing observed that the loose fill is not sufficient and that the sand box requires replenishing.

Maintenance of Equipment: Thorough inspections of the outdoor play space are conducted regularly. [Director of Licensing Standard of Practice - Safe Play Space] (13)

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

Observation. Although there was a daily check done of the outdoor play space, there was no documentation identify that some areas of the playground are hazardous and pose a serious risk to the health and safety of the children.