Little Cedar Trees - Group Child Care (30 Months to School Age)

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. Conducted a full inspection of the yard and deck with acting manager. Observed quality play sand in the sand pit, e.g. fine river washed, good for molding. Acting manager stated the fibar had been topped up since my last visit. Discussed how fibar drifts from heavy impact areas to low impact under platforms and slide. Fibar is starting to accumulate in low impact/ less traveled areas. Encouraged staff team (and children) to rake to ensure even distribution. Through raking, the fibar can be relocated to where most needed. Acting manager said this is part of their practice and they would share a reminder. Inquired as to how the spaces were being used. Acting manager said the open fibar area is where children engage in ball play such as soccer. Discussed the history & intention of the space, e.g. to keep it open & flexible for child care use as well as open for cultural events / tipi, etc.). Observed bird proofing was done under the deck, along the top beams. Acting manager said they had bird droppings and responded promptly. No issue since. Acting manager noted the wood retaining logs were scored and texturized post last inspection however they still are slippery when wet. Discussed slippery areas in the yard, the creep of green slime on wood elements in yard and on deck. Inquired as to when pressure washing had last occurred. Acting manager stated they thought it was at least once a year. Acting manager noted the washing tends to focus on the plastic and metal play structure. Inquired as to whether acting manager felt power wash was due, acting manager agreed. Discussed how doing this after wet season is most impactful (e.g. early spring) and again after the sap season (see routine inspection July 2025). Children have access to outdoor play daily in yard and on deck as well as regular access to the VAFCS gym.

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 and fibar Discussed level of sand and fibar. Fibar is raked regularly to ensure even distribution, however it now needs a top up to ensure life safety. Staff were in agreement. Sand levels are very low and staff noted they were about to request a top up. CCFL is in agreement. Discussed replacing the current sand with a quality river washed sand. Noted the sand is so low that the landscape membrane is showing. Current sand is coarse and can be difficult to mold with. Staff said that one of the parents is a landscaper. Landscaper agreed that better sand could be sourced. Play structure Play structure is covered with green slime and dirt. Time for a pressure wash. Staff confirmed birds sitting in the trees and pooping is an ongoing issue. They wipe or rinse off the structure and any other affected surface every morning. Shed The south door on the shed is missing a shingle. To be replaced. Garden plot Staff reported that the plot is empty because rats eat every attempt at planting. Noted one large pot with flowers. Staff confirmed this pot seems to have managed to escape the rats. Discussed the possibility of further planting in pots. Staff said they would explore this. Fence and gate Staff reported that uninvited guests have managed to pop the lock and move the dead bolt situated at the top of the gate to gain access to yard. Discussed remedies to this, including placing a dead bolt at the bottom of the gate that cannot be reached. This way even if the person manages to trip the lock and reach the top dead bolt, the bottom lock will prevent access. Staff also reported that people have gained access by going over the southwest corner and west side of the fence. Discussed possible remedies including installing a panel on top of the existing fence panel to raise the height of the fence. Staff said they would share this as a possible option. Note - Lattice panel is not recommended as the openings support hand grips and climbing. In the meantime, staff will monitor and let CCFL know if the problem continues. Flies Staff pointed to the number of flies that congregate in the yard. Staff pointed out the bags hung in the trees to catch some of the flies. When staff pointed out the problem to pest control, they provided these bags. The flies are prevalent particularly under the trees and in the deck area. Staff and I wondered if it was related to the trees in the yard and the sap on the leaves. The trees are one of the best features in the yard, offering much needed shade and access to nature. Staff will continue to explore possible mitigation measures with facilities and pest control.

Instructions in a child's record or care plan respecting food and drink for the child are followed. [CCLR Sec.48(2)]

Observation. As per the EHO's requirements, the catering kitchen has submitted an updated food safety plan. However the child care's request for a list of ingredients or recipes used for rotating menu items has not been forthcoming. This leaves the child care in a difficult position re ensuring the ongoing health of children in care and may lead to undue delays in relaying information if unexpected health issues arise.

Food and drink provided to children is not sufficient in quantity and/or quality to meet the developmental needs of each child given the child's food preferences and cultural background. [CCLR Sec. 48(3)(c)]

Observation. Manager and staff stated they continue to receive menus from the onsite catering kitchen that are based on the shelter menu. There has been no change since the joint EHO/ CCFL inspection of July 18, 2024. The staff team is not consulted re the children's needs or cultural content. The snacks and meals continue to largely reflect an adult standard. For example, staff noted that items are seasoned to adult tastes - macaroni and cheese & the Salisbury steak are seasoned to be very salty and the children have been rejecting the food. The onsite caterer appears to be unable to meet the child care's needs. Manager reported that she and the Friendship Centre management are looking for another catering company. They are hopeful that an alternate caterer will work with the team to provide for the children's needs and cultural background. They hope to have this contract in place by September 3. ( Note - The centre is closed from August 22 to September 3, 2024.) CCFL suggested contacting a nearby child care with similar needs that had recently gone through the same process.

Food and drink provided to children is sufficient in quantity and quality to meet the developmental needs of each child. [CCLR Sec.48(3)]

Observation. Discussed AHS childcare menu with Chef. Chef reported that the meals served the child care were a version of the shelter menu. Chef noted the kitchen made changes to the AHS childcare menu since June. Chef reported the changes were prompted by staff feedback that the prior menu had items that were too spicy and that children do not like food that is "mixed up." Cultural foods are served once a week. I confirmed the childcare had been found in noncompliance because the June menu was adult oriented, e.g., spicy meatballs, mac and cheese with green onions, and mixed boiled vegetables. Children were not eating the food. Noted the regulation requires that food provided meet the needs of children and their preferences/ cultural background. I remarked on the difference between the posted July shelter menu and July AHS menu. The spicy meatballs are no longer on the AHS menu and the macaroni and cheese is plain (without the green onions/ ham / tomatoes). I praised the kitchen's response to staff feedback, noting that staff are the best resource for planning children's menus. Staff will know how to meet children's individual needs. Chef said he was committed to doing his best to adapt the menu to children's needs. He pointed out how today they were serving just peas rather than the mixed vegetables. I encouraged this ongoing collaboration in menu planning between the kitchen and childcare staff team. This way both the kitchen and childcare can remain in compliance and meet the children's needs. Chef stated his commitment to doing so. Post kitchen inspection, reported on the outcome of the above conversation with Manager. Manager stated she would monitor and report back to CCFL regarding any issues. EHO reviewed staff's hot holding practices and confirmed that (as described) they were satisfactory. If staff have any questions in the future, they are to report these to their licensing officer.

Instructions in a child's record or care plan respecting food and drink for the child are followed. [CCLR Sec.48(2)]

Observation. EHO spoke with Chef re the need for an updated safety plan. Food safety plan must be updated to include the AHS menu and a list of ingredients for each menu item served the childcare. EHO explained how preparing a menu for a vulnerable population (children) is different from other catering. CCFL and EHO provided examples of how preschoolers are developing and allergies/ food sensitivities are emergent; it is sometimes hard to discern symptoms related to food borne illness and allergies. This is why having the ingredient lists is critical to the ongoing health of the children in care. Discussed ways in which ingredients can be shared. For example, if a packaged seasoning mix is used, Chef can take photo of ingredient label and scan into food safety plan as part of list of ingredients. Until an updated food safety plan is provided the EHO for review and approval, the childcare staff and Chef / kitchen team must continue to sign off on allergen's check list to ensure the health and safety of children in care. Discussed how there are known allergies within the current group - eggs, dairy and wheat. The current checklist reflects those known allergens.

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. Dishwasher is now in place. CCLO and EHO reviewed operation of dishwasher. Loveseat is now in place and being used in the activity room. Gate has been purchased and staff are waiting for facilities to install. The purchase of adult seating is in progress.

Food and drink provided to children is not sufficient in quantity and/or quality to meet the developmental needs of each child given the child's food preferences and cultural background. [CCLR Sec. 48(3)(c)] ; Food and drink provided to children is not sufficient in quantity and/or quality to meet the developmental needs of each child given the child's age. [CCLR Sec. 48(3)(a)]

Observation. Manager informed me that the food permitted kitchen has made a unilateral change in the foods offered the child care program. The previous CCFL approved menus featured child friendly items that reflected the children's culture as per Aboriginal Head Start goals and values. Traditional foods were served daily. Manager shared the current menu and an email that stated the program was now being provided the same offerings as what the kitchen was providing the shelters. The shelter food, while hearty, reflects adult tastes. There is only one traditional food offering per week for lunch and no apparent traditional food offerings for snacks. Furthermore there is some suggestion in the email, that in the near future, the food permitted kitchen will prepackage the meals for the child care staff to heat up. The existing domestic fridge with a small freezer is not able to support this. Equally concerning, the program is already stretched for staff and is not able to support one staff coming off the floor daily to heat and prepare lunches. This will compromise care and supervision. CCFL observed lunch today. The children had been active outside. They were clearly hungry and ready to eat. When food is served in child care, typically there is at least 10 -15 minutes of quiet as hungry children eat. Today there was no quiet. The children were agitated and questioned the food. One tossed the lunch and another outright refused to eat. Others quietly looked at the food. Staff offered ketchup and this seemed to help for some children. Staff tried the meatball, both said it was spicy. Noted the majority of children did not eat the mashed potatoes and the mixed boiled vegetables (green bean, carrot, diced carrots and corn - usual frozen mix). Few ate the meatball. Children typically do not care for mixed items and spicy food. Unfortunately the majority of meals on June's menu are reflective of today's. Food security is an issue of concern and staff would like to provide the children with hearty, nutritious, child friendly traditional foods as per the Aboriginal Head Starts' goals & values and the Child Care Licensing Regulation, Section 48.

Instructions in a child's record or care plan respecting food and drink for the child are followed. [CCLR Sec.48(2)]

Observation. There are children in the program with food allergies and sensitivities. It was reported to CCFL that the kitchen is not forwarding lists of ingredients with lunches offered. This represents a significant health risk to those children with identified allergies. There are children enrolled with allergies to wheat and dairy. Staff did not know what the mashed potatoes were mashed with or what was in the meatball. It is also difficult for staff and families to provide full information to medical professionals if a child has stomach upset or an unexplained reaction. Typically the first question asked is, what did the child eat today, what was in the meatball? Staff must have this information.

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 light covers have been adjusted in the small room. The condition of the gate into the kitchen continues to deteriorate. This has been out of compliance since March 6, 2024. The sliding bolt installed has not addressed the design problem of the two way gate. The hinge is loose and gate hangs such that you have to lift it into place. The condition of the gate is a safety and supervision hazard. The dishwasher has not yet been repaired (March 6 to present) and staff are having to use single serve cups and other items. The dishwasher must be replaced asap. Food is at the heart of the childcare and once enrolment increases the staff are going to be hard pressed to keep up with demand for cleaning. Adult seating for staff to sit with the children at tables/ throughout the room and the loveseat (which were approved as part of budget for opening) have yet to be ordered. Manager reported approvals for these required items have not been provided.

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. See routine inspection report from March 6, 2024 for details regarding the following. Checked on the actions that were to have been addressed by March 31, 2024. 1) Discussed and checked on the heat in the small / nap room. Staff reported that this issue had been addressed. Room was comfortably warm today. 2) Staff reported the toilets are all functioning well in the washroom and are able to be used freely now. Other issues have not been addressed or actions unknown and there were additional concerns identified. See below. A latch has not been added to the swinging gate between the activity room and the kitchen. Noted that since March 6, 2024, the condition of the swinging gate has worsened. The hinge is loose and the gate slips downward upon opening. Staff report getting their own fingers stuck. They are concerned that when enrolment increases, they will be unable to supervise the gate. This is a significant safety issue. The dishwasher is broken and has been for approximately three days. The dishwasher must be repaired and or replaced. Also checked on progress re required actions by April 15, 2024. 1) Staff stated they believed adult seating that met staff needs when working with children at tables were on order. 2) Staff reported that the loveseat / couch has not been ordered. Stated I would follow up.

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 informed me the children are slipping on the large log borders in the yard, especially when the weather is damp like today. This is a safety issue that can be easily addressed. This issue was cited as requiring attention in the March 6, 2024 routine inspection report. At the time, CCFL required that the top of the wood borders be textured in the same way as the wood in the rock walkway is textured to provide a nonslip surface. Action was required by March 31, 2024. To date, this has not occurred.

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. Observed there was a difference between the level of warmth in the small room and the activity room. Small / nap room is much colder. Manager, consultant and I discussed and confirmed this was an ongoing issue. Noted the fluorescent lights in the small/ nap room have covers that appear to be ill fitting, one appeared to have slipped exposing part of the bulb. This is a safety concern and secure covers are a requirement. The two way gate to the kitchen swings back and forth easily. Noted there is nothing to prevent children from accessing the kitchen. Observed a child travelling in and out of the kitchen and opening oven, drawers, etc. Staff were attentive and provided immediate redirection. Right now with three children, staff can follow the children and guide them back to the activity room. Once enrolment increases, this is not possible. Appropriate gating and hardware was raised during the building permit process and the current gate does not conform to requests from CCFL and consultant, e.g. design and security measures. Gate needs to be secured so children cannot access the kitchen. Staff must be consulted as to the best type of latch and location of latch. There have been some ongoing plumbing issues. For example, if someone flushes the toilet in the women's washroom across the hall from the childcare, the childcare toilets gurgle. Water pressure with the toilets is an issue. Today staff were told the toilets in the centre can be used but with caution. Staff are concerned. When enrolment increases the toilets will be used constantly and must be functional. Observed that staff are using an office chair to support their backs when sitting with children as well as sitting or lying on floor with children. A loveseat / couch was on the list of items budgeted for and approved prior to opening. At the time of licensing, CCFL understood the loveseat was on order. Having an office chair out in the children's activity area is a safety hazard and manager said she would ensure the practice stops. Staff and elders need seating that respects their needs, i.e., supports their backs and brings them to the children's level. Staff, elders and children also need soft furnishings that are family style that allow an adult and one to two children to sit, snuggle up and read a book together. Discussed having the previously approved loveseat / couch and at least two or more chairs that staff can use when they are with the children at the table. Discussed being mindful of earthquake proofing the environment and safe options for storage.

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 remarked on how slippery the large log borders are in the rain. We discussed how this could be remedied. The simplest solution would be to use a plane to texture the surface so that children's shoes can grip the surface even when wet. A good example of this in the yard is how the tops of the wood in the rock walkway have been textured on top to provide a non slippery surface. This could be done with the wood borders as well.